Technology is the use of knowledge to achieve practical goals. It can refer to tangible tools like utensils and machines or to intangible concepts such as software. The word is derived from two Greek words: techne, meaning art, skill or craft; and logos, a spoken or written utterance by which inward thought is expressed. The word has been used as early as the 5th century BC.
Technological innovations can make people’s lives easier and more comfortable, but they can also disrupt existing social hierarchies or cause pollution. Occasionally, the use of particular technologies becomes an issue subject to public debate and possibly formal regulation. This has happened with contour plowing, vaccination, genetic engineering and nuclear power plants, among other things.
Most technologies spread or disappear on the basis of free-market forces. Occasionally, however, the use of certain technologies becomes an issue subject to public debate and sometimes even formal regulation. This has happened with contour plowing, vaccines and genetic engineering, nuclear energy, and other technologies.
In modern times, technological innovation has accelerated considerably. Consequently, many more technological tools have become available to consumers than in the past.
The use of these technological tools helps us to achieve greater productivity in our everyday work. However, the decision about which technological tool to employ depends on the individual needs and priorities of a person. Therefore, one must be careful and thoughtful before selecting the best technological tool for a given task.