What is the fundamental definition of low technology?

Low technology, also referred to as low-tech, is defined as simple technology, in contrast to high technology. It encompasses technologies that are basic in their design and application.

How does low technology relate to mid-tech?

Low tech is related to the concept of mid-tech, which represents a balance between low-tech and high-tech. Mid-tech aims to combine the efficiency and versatility of high technology with the potential for autonomy and resilience found in low technology.

What are some examples of primitive technologies considered low-tech?

Primitive technologies such as bushcraft, and tools made from materials like wood, stone, and wool are considered low-tech. These represent some of the earliest forms of human tool use and ingenuity.

Can pre-Industrial Revolution machines be classified as low-tech?

Yes, pre-Industrial Revolution machines like windmills and sailboats are classified as low-tech. These technologies were significant advancements for their time but are considered simple compared to modern industrial machinery.

What societal context led to the emergence of a 'low-tech movement' in the 1970s?

The economic boom following the Vietnam War, coupled with growing doubts about progress, technology, and growth, particularly influenced by the 1972 report 'The Limits to Growth,' spurred the development of a 'low-tech movement' in the 1970s.

Which thinkers described low technologies as 'intermediaries' or 'liberating' during the 1970s low-tech movement?

During the 1970s low-tech movement, thinkers like E. F. Schumacher described such technologies as 'intermediaries,' while M. Bookchin referred to them as 'liberating.' These descriptions highlighted their perceived benefits in contrast to complex, potentially overwhelming modern technologies.

What role did Langdon Winner play in the study of low technology in the 1970s?

Langdon Winner was among the researchers who conducted studies on low technology in the 1970s, contributing to the development of a philosophy advocating for the widespread use of these simpler technologies.

How has the term 'low-tech' been used in scientific writings since the 2000s?

Since the 2000s, 'low-tech' has been increasingly employed in scientific writings, particularly in analyses of works by authors from the 1970s, and in discussions referencing books like 'High tech, low tech, no tech' and the work of authors such as Hirsch-Kreinsen and Gordon.

What recent perspective has led to increased criticism of high-tech and technology in general?

The perspective of resource scarcity, particularly concerning minerals, has led to increasingly severe criticism of high-tech and technology in general in recent years.

What was the central argument of Philippe Bihouix's 2014 book 'L'âge des low tech'?

In his 2014 book 'L'âge des low tech' (The age of low-techs), Philippe Bihouix argued that a European nation like France, with limited mineral and energy resources, could better align with sustainable development goals by becoming a 'low-tech' nation instead of a 'start-up' nation.

What does the term 'retro-tech' signify in relation to low-tech?

Retro-tech is oriented towards old but clever inventions and, while not always useful, durable, or accessible, shares parallels with low-tech due to its often decentralized and simpler manufacturing methods, frequently produced by individuals.

How is 'Wild-tech' defined in contrast to the high-tech/low-tech dichotomy?

Wild-tech aims to provide tools for thinking about manufacturing methods that escape traditional classification, existing beyond the simple opposition of high-tech and low-tech. It can also be linked to the 'tech rebel' movement, which seeks to hack and re-appropriate technology.

What does 'small-tech' refer to, and what principles does it emphasize?

Small-tech is positioned in opposition to 'Big Tech' (like GAFAM) and specifically addresses digital issues. It emphasizes maintaining a high level of technological complexity but is grounded in notions of commons, collaborative work, and the principles of democracy and social justice.

What is the meaning and aim of '(s)lowtech' or 'slow-tech'?

'(s)lowtech' or 'slow-tech' uses a play on words with 'slow' and aims to explore the drawbacks of technology and its effects on human health and development. It also represents a movement to reduce technology addiction, particularly among young people, and promotes technologies that support a slower lifestyle.

What are the core characteristics of 'easy-tech'?

Easy-tech refers to technology that is simple to implement, easy to use, and accessible to everyone. This concept is central to the commonly accepted definition of low-tech.

What is the philosophy behind 'no-tech'?

No-tech promotes a lifestyle that avoids the use of technology whenever possible. This approach aligns with technocritical writings that highlight the negative and time-consuming aspects of many modern technologies.

Who introduced the term 'Lo-Tek' and what does it represent?

Julia Watson introduced the term 'Lo-Tek' (or LoTek) in her book 'The Power of Lo—TEK: A global exploration of nature-based technology.' It signifies a global exploration of nature-based technology.

According to the Cambridge International Dictionary of English, how is low-tech defined?

The Cambridge International Dictionary of English defines low-tech simply as a technique that is not recent or that uses old materials.

What is the 'wider and more balanced approach' to defining low-tech?

This approach expands the definition of low-tech beyond just old techniques to include new, future-oriented methods that are more ecological and aim to rebuild social connections. It views low-tech innovation positively, contrasting it with planned obsolescence and questioning consumerist and materialist principles.

How does the 'wider and more balanced approach' view the accessibility and impact of low-tech?

This definition suggests that low-tech implies anyone can create objects using their intelligence and share their know-how to popularize their creations. Consequently, low-tech could help reduce economic inequalities because it is accessible to all.

Does the definition of low-tech sometimes focus on meeting basic needs?

Yes, some definitions of low-tech are restricted to technologies that meet basic needs such as eating, drinking, housing, and heating. However, this narrower definition is not universally accepted.

What is the significance of the term 'lower tech' as preferred by some?

Some individuals prefer to use the term 'lower tech' because they view the definition of low-tech as relative, acknowledging that technology exists on a spectrum rather than in strict categories.

What does the image of a controlled open fire using wood, used for cooking in 2015, represent in the context of low technology?

The image of a controlled open fire, a technology invented 1.7 to 2 million years ago and still used for cooking in 2015, illustrates a fundamental and enduring example of low technology that has been essential for human survival and development.

What is depicted in the infographic titled 'Low-techs: Sustainably securing the essentials for all'?

The infographic titled 'Low-techs: Sustainably securing the essentials for all' visually presents the criteria and principles associated with any low-tech innovation approach, emphasizing sustainability and the provision of essential needs.

What does the image of skateboarding in Mexico City represent as a form of technology?

The image of skateboarding in Mexico City serves as a visual example of low-tech mobility, showcasing a simple, human-powered mode of transportation that relies on basic mechanical principles.

What does the image of a farmer working the land with horses and a plough illustrate?

The image of a farmer working the land with horses and a plough exemplifies traditional, low-technology agricultural practices that have been used for centuries before the advent of mechanized farming.

What does the image of a rotary clothesline represent?

The image of a rotary clothesline demonstrates a simple, efficient, and low-tech solution for drying laundry, utilizing basic mechanics and readily available materials.

What does the image of handmade brooms signify?

The image of handmade brooms from Banaue, Philippines, represents a form of low-tech craftsmanship, where essential tools are created using traditional methods and local materials.

What does the image of a horse and cart in 2004 signify?

The image of a horse and cart, captured in 2004, illustrates the continued use of low-technology transportation in some parts of the world, highlighting a reliance on animal power and simple mechanics.

What concept did E. F. Schumacher introduce in his book 'Small is beautiful' that aligns with low technology?

In his 1973 book 'Small is beautiful,' E. F. Schumacher introduced the concept of 'intermediate technology,' which closely corresponds to the meaning of 'low tech.' He also founded the Intermediate Technology Development Group, now known as Practical Action, to promote such technologies.

What is the relationship between low-tech and technocriticism?

Low-tech is often discussed within the context of technocriticism, particularly concerning the 'no-tech' approach, which critiques the negative and time-consuming aspects of many modern technologies and advocates for avoiding them where possible.

What are some related concepts listed under 'See also' that are associated with low technology?

Related concepts listed include Obsolescence, Do it yourself, Anti-consumerism, Degrowth, Simple living, Embodied energy, Intermediate technology, and Pre-industrial society, all of which touch upon aspects of technology's simplicity, sustainability, or societal impact.

What is the primary goal of 'Low-Tech Magazine' and 'Low-tech lab' as mentioned in the external links?

Both 'Low-Tech Magazine' and 'Low-tech lab' focus on exploring and promoting technologies that are simple, sustainable, and often overlooked, questioning the conventional idea of progress and technology.

What is the core idea behind the 'low-tech movement' that gained traction in the 1970s?

The 'low-tech movement' of the 1970s emerged from a period of questioning technological progress and growth, advocating for simpler, more manageable technologies that offered greater autonomy and resilience, often described as 'intermediary' or 'liberating'.

How does the concept of 'low-tech' relate to sustainable development goals?

The concept of low-tech, particularly as discussed by Philippe Bihouix, is seen as a pathway for nations with limited resources to achieve sustainable development goals by prioritizing simpler, more resource-efficient technologies over complex, high-tech solutions.

What is the significance of 'Lo-Tek' as defined by Julia Watson?

Lo-Tek, as introduced by Julia Watson, represents a global exploration of nature-based technologies, emphasizing indigenous knowledge and sustainable, environmentally integrated design principles.

What does the term 'retro-tech' emphasize within the broader low-tech discussion?

Retro-tech specifically highlights older inventions that were ingenious or clever, suggesting that valuable, simpler technological solutions can be found in the past, often produced with less industrial complexity.

How does 'small-tech' address the dominance of large technology corporations?

'Small-tech' counters the influence of 'Big Tech' by focusing on digital technologies developed through principles of commons, collaborative work, democracy, and social justice, aiming for a more equitable technological landscape.

What is the primary concern addressed by the '(s)lowtech' or 'slow-tech' movement?

The '(s)lowtech' or 'slow-tech' movement is primarily concerned with the negative impacts of technology on human health and development, advocating for a reduction in technology use and a lifestyle that embraces slowness and mindfulness.

What makes a technology 'easy-tech'?

A technology is considered 'easy-tech' if it is straightforward to implement, simple to operate, and readily accessible to a wide range of users, embodying the core principles of low-tech accessibility.

What is the ultimate goal of the 'no-tech' philosophy?

The 'no-tech' philosophy aims to promote a lifestyle that consciously avoids technology whenever feasible, stemming from a critical view of modern technologies and their potential downsides.

What is the difference between the 'binary definition' and the 'wider, more balanced approach' to low-tech?

The binary definition of low-tech is primarily based on simplicity and age (not recent, using old materials), as found in dictionaries. In contrast, the wider, more balanced approach incorporates philosophical, environmental, and social aspects, viewing low-tech as potentially future-oriented, ecological, and community-building.

How does the 'wider and more balanced approach' to low-tech challenge consumer society?

This approach challenges consumer society by questioning materialist principles and planned obsolescence, common in high-tech products. It promotes the idea that individuals can create and share technology, fostering self-sufficiency and reducing reliance on mass consumption.

What is the role of 'know-how' in the context of low-tech according to the wider definition?

The wider definition of low-tech emphasizes that 'know-how'—the practical knowledge and skills—is crucial. It suggests that individuals can use their intelligence to create objects and share this knowledge to make their creations widely accessible, thereby democratizing technology.

What is the historical significance of controlling fire, as depicted in one of the images?

The image of controlled fire used for cooking highlights a foundational low technology, invented millions of years ago, which was crucial for early human development, enabling cooking, warmth, and protection.

How does the concept of 'intermediate technology' relate to low technology?

The concept of 'intermediate technology,' popularized by E. F. Schumacher, is very similar to low technology. It refers to technologies that are simpler and more appropriate for developing economies or specific contexts, bridging the gap between basic tools and advanced industrial systems.

What does the inclusion of 'Prehistoric technology' in the 'See also' section suggest about low technology?

The inclusion of 'Prehistoric technology' suggests that low technology encompasses the earliest forms of human innovation and tool-making, representing the most basic level of technological development from which all other technologies evolved.

What is the core idea behind the 'History of technology' navbox mentioned in the article?

The 'History of technology' navigation box provides a broad overview of technological development across different cultures and time periods, from prehistoric times through ancient civilizations, the Industrial Revolution, and into the modern era, categorizing it by cultures and domains.

Low Technology Wiki: The Wisdom of Simplicity: An Exploration of Low Technology

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What is Low Technology?

Defining Simplicity

Low technology, often termed "low tech," refers to simple technological approaches, standing in contrast to "high technology." It is not merely about being outdated but encompasses technologies that are accessible, understandable, and often more resilient.

The Mid-Tech Balance

Low tech is also related to the concept of "mid-tech," which seeks a balance between the efficiency of high technology and the autonomy and resilience inherent in low-tech solutions. This approach aims to integrate the best of both worlds.

Beyond the Binary

While often presented as a dichotomy against high technology, a more nuanced view recognizes low tech as a philosophy that can incorporate both traditional and innovative, future-oriented techniques. The emphasis is on ecological and social sustainability, fostering community, and reducing inequality.

Historical Roots

Ancient Foundations

The origins of low technology are as old as human civilization itself. Primitive technologies such as bushcraft, tools crafted from wood, stone, and wool, represent the earliest forms of human ingenuity. Pre-industrial machines like windmills and sailboats also exemplify this category.

The 1970s Awakening

The post-war economic boom and subsequent reports like "The Limits to Growth" (1972) sparked a critical re-evaluation of technological progress. This period saw the emergence of a "low-tech movement," with thinkers like E. F. Schumacher advocating for "intermediate technologies" and Murray Bookchin championing "liberating" and "democratic" technologies.

Contemporary Relevance

In the 21st century, concerns over resource scarcity and the environmental impact of high-tech industries have renewed interest in low-tech approaches. Authors like Philippe Bihouix have explored how nations could transition towards being "low-tech" to align with sustainable development goals.

The Philosophy of Low Tech

Intermediate Technology

E. F. Schumacher, in his seminal work "Small is Beautiful," championed "intermediate technology." This concept, closely aligned with low-tech, emphasizes technologies that are appropriate for developing economies and communities, balancing simplicity with effectiveness. His founding of the Intermediate Technology Development Group (now Practical Action) underscores this commitment.

Ecological and Social Focus

Modern interpretations of low-tech extend beyond mere simplicity. They prioritize ecological sustainability, aiming for technologies that minimize environmental impact. Crucially, they also focus on recreating social bonds and fostering community resilience, moving away from purely consumerist models.

Accessibility and Equity

A core tenet of the low-tech philosophy is accessibility. It posits that technologies should be understandable, implementable, and usable by all. By sharing know-how and promoting accessible creations, low-tech aims to reduce economic inequalities and empower individuals and communities.

Nuanced Definitions

Retro-Tech

Focuses on older, yet clever, inventions that may not be inherently useful or durable but are often decentralized and simpler to manufacture by individuals.

Wild-Tech

A category that defies easy classification, encompassing technologies that escape traditional high-tech/low-tech divides. It relates to hacking and re-appropriating any technology.

Small-Tech

Contrasted with "Big Tech" (like GAFAM), this approach focuses on digital questions through the lens of commons, collaborative work, democracy, and social justice.

(S)lowtech / Slow-Tech

A play on words emphasizing a slower pace of life and technology adoption. It critiques technology's impact on health and development, encouraging reduced reliance on digital tools and promoting a slower lifestyle.

Easy-Tech

Technology that is simple to implement, use, and accessible to everyone. This definition closely aligns with the core concept of low-tech.

No-Tech

Promotes a lifestyle that avoids technology whenever possible, often stemming from technocritical perspectives on the negative and time-consuming aspects of modern technologies.

Lo-Tek

Introduced by Julia Watson, this term emphasizes nature-based technology and global explorations of indigenous, sustainable innovations.

Tangible Examples

Traditional Agriculture

The use of simple tools and methods, such as traditional ploughing with horses, exemplifies low-tech approaches to essential tasks like farming. These methods are often deeply integrated with natural cycles.

Everyday Utilities

Simple, effective technologies that have stood the test of time, like a rotary clothesline for drying laundry, demonstrate the practicality and resourcefulness of low-tech solutions in daily life.

Handcrafted Tools

The creation of tools like handmade brooms showcases the value placed on craftsmanship and the use of readily available materials. Such items are often durable and repairable.

Basic Mobility

The use of horse-drawn carts for transportation, as seen in some communities, represents a low-tech mode of mobility that relies on animal power and simple mechanics, offering an alternative to fossil-fuel-dependent vehicles.

Related Concepts

Obsolescence

The planned or unintentional becoming outdated or non-functional. Low-tech often contrasts with the rapid obsolescence common in high-tech products.

Do It Yourself

The practice of building, modifying, or repairing things oneself without the direct aid of experts or professionals. This ethos is central to many low-tech movements.

Degrowth

A socio-economic paradigm that advocates for the downscaling of production and consumption to achieve environmental sustainability and improve human well-being. Low-tech is often seen as a facilitator of degrowth.

Simple Living

A lifestyle that emphasizes voluntary simplicity, reducing consumption and focusing on non-materialistic values. Low-tech practices often align with this philosophy.

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References

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The Wisdom of Simplicity

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

What is Low Technology? ℹ️

⚙️ Defining Simplicity

⚖️ The Mid-Tech Balance

🌍 Beyond the Binary

Historical Roots 📜

🏺 Ancient Foundations

🤔 The 1970s Awakening

💡 Contemporary Relevance

The Philosophy of Low Tech 💡

🤝 Intermediate Technology

🌱 Ecological and Social Focus

⚖️ Accessibility and Equity

Nuanced Definitions 🏷️

🔄 Retro-Tech

🌿 Wild-Tech

👥 Small-Tech

⏳ (S)lowtech / Slow-Tech

✅ Easy-Tech

🚫 No-Tech

🏞️ Lo-Tek

Tangible Examples 🛠️

🧑‍🌾 Traditional Agriculture

🧺 Everyday Utilities

🧹 Handcrafted Tools

🐎 Basic Mobility

Related Concepts 🔗

⏳ Obsolescence

DIY Do It Yourself

📉 Degrowth

🧘 Simple Living

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

What is Low Technology?

Defining Simplicity

The Mid-Tech Balance

Beyond the Binary

Historical Roots

Ancient Foundations

The 1970s Awakening

Contemporary Relevance

The Philosophy of Low Tech

Intermediate Technology

Ecological and Social Focus

Accessibility and Equity

Nuanced Definitions

Retro-Tech

Wild-Tech

Small-Tech

(S)lowtech / Slow-Tech

Easy-Tech

No-Tech

Lo-Tek

Tangible Examples

Traditional Agriculture

Everyday Utilities

Handcrafted Tools

Basic Mobility

Related Concepts

Obsolescence

Do It Yourself

Degrowth

Simple Living

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice