Heidegger and the reversed order of science and technology

Lin Ma

Jaap van Brakel

pp. 183-205

in: Babette Babich, Dimitri Ginev (eds), The multidimensionality of hermeneutic phenomenology, Berlin, Springer, 2014

Abstract

Contrary to the common view that modern technology derives from modern science, Heidegger presents a reverse picture in which science originated in the essence of technology, wherein Being speaks. We argue that it is in this sense that Heidegger speaks of the Same [das Selbe] of science and technology, both being ultimately grounded in the history of Being. In the long span from 1938 to 1976, Heidegger has continuously delved into the relation of science and technology. In our research we also engage ourselves with various claims made by philosophers of technoscience. We show that Heidegger has always kept himself well-informed of traditional as well as new types of technology and science, including quantum physics, atomic technology (as used in nuclear reactors), and biophysics (including speculations about genetic manipulation in the 1950s). Nevertheless, one cannot ascribe to Heidegger the view that these new developments originate a new Epoch of Being.

Cited authors

Heidegger Martin