Technological semantics and technological practice: Lessons from an enigmatic episode in twentieth-century technology studies

This paper is a review of words and their meanings in the field of technology studies, and an analysis the semantics of an idealistic international technology-related social movement that flourished briefly during the second half of the twentieth century. Sloppy nomenclature employed by proponents and observers of the movement led to people with opposite views appearing to agree (and vice versa), with the consequence that the movement’s valuable policy insights exerted only marginal influence on mainstream technology policy. I conclude that poor technological semantics may undermine effective technological practice. Suggestions for a constructive technological nomenclature are presented. His research, teaching, and consulting concentrate on strategic technology management, intellectual property management, technology-based entrepreneurship, technology-based industry development, and regional economic development planning. He holds doctoral degrees in both technology studies and strategic management. Kelvin has conducted research or directed programs in technology management at the State University of New York at Stony Brook, the University of Utah, and the University of California at Berkeley. He is also an active participant in the Entrepreneurial Technology Apprenticeship Program of the U.S. Minority Business Development Administration and the National Technology Transfer Center.