Sociology and Criminology

Technology and the Human

Module code: L4123
Level 6
15 credits in autumn semester
Teaching method: Workshop
Assessment modes: Portfolio

On this module, you’ll explore the human as a social construct, shaped through its relationship to technology.

You’ll study:

• the social construction of humanity
• this construction’s relationship to technology through a historical perspective
• the raced, classed and gendered dynamics that have shaped what it means to be human.

You’ll also use social theories to explore how technologies have contributed to a shift from the human to the posthuman, particularly through the cyborg. You’ll pair theory with case studies, including:

• the Luddites of the 19th century
• recent automation anxieties about AI
• recent attempts to use humans as ‘digital sensors’ to sense their environment.

Module learning outcomes

• Demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of social theoretical and critical perspectives on the human and its relationship to technology
• Apply relevant social theories about humanism, posthumanism, and technology to critically reflect on their own humanity
• Critically interpret case studies and examples using arguments from social theoretical debates regarding technology and the human
• Synthesise empirical data and theoretical work on humanism, posthumanism and technology to effectively communicate detailed written work for academic and other audiences