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Situating technological and societal futures. Pragmatist engagements with computer simulations and social dynamics

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  • Schubert, Cornelius

Abstract

This article employs pragmatist ideas to conceptualise the interdependencies of epistemic instruments and societal futures. Drawing on recent discussions in science and technology studies, it argues that the numerical predictions of computer simulations do not only create novel kinds of future knowledge (epistemic performativity), but also new practices and arrangements of prediction (social performativity). The conceptual framework centres on Dewey's logic of inquiry as the transformation of indeterminate into determinate situations and the role which epistemic instruments such as computer simulations play in this transformation. In order to trace the social performativity of numerical predictions, the paper will provide answers to three questions from a pragmatist perspective. The first question concerns the agency of computer simulations as transformative means in social relations. The second revolves around the impact of these simulations on specific ways of thinking about the future. And, third, the observation and analysis of these changes through empirical research will be addressed.

Suggested Citation

  • Schubert, Cornelius, 2015. "Situating technological and societal futures. Pragmatist engagements with computer simulations and social dynamics," Technology in Society, Elsevier, vol. 40(C), pages 4-13.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:teinso:v:40:y:2015:i:c:p:4-13
    DOI: 10.1016/j.techsoc.2014.07.003
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Donald Mackenzie & Fabian Muniesa & Lucia Siu, 2007. "Do Economists Make Markets? On the Performativity of Economics," Post-Print halshs-00149145, HAL.
    2. Mark Dodgson & David M. Gann & Ammon Salter, 2007. "“In Case of Fire, Please Use the Elevator”: Simulation Technology and Organization in Fire Engineering," Organization Science, INFORMS, vol. 18(5), pages 849-864, October.
    3. Donald MacKenzie & Fabian Muniesa & Lucia Siu, 2007. "Introduction to Do Economists Make Markets? On the Performativity of Economics," Introductory Chapters, in: Donald MacKenzie & Fabian Muniesa & Lucia Siu (ed.),Do Economists Make Markets? On the Performativity of Economics, Princeton University Press.
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    Cited by:

    1. Esmaelian, Majid & Tavana, Madjid & Di Caprio, Debora & Ansari, Reza, 2017. "A multiple correspondence analysis model for evaluating technology foresight methods," Technological Forecasting and Social Change, Elsevier, vol. 125(C), pages 188-205.
    2. Costa Climent, Ricardo & Haftor, Darek M., 2021. "Business model theory-based prediction of digital technology use: An empirical assessment," Technological Forecasting and Social Change, Elsevier, vol. 173(C).

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