The following text discusses the philosophy of technology.
Technological determinism holds that technology shapes society in predictable ways independent of human intentions. Social constructivism counters that technologies are shaped by social factors and can be developed or deployed differently. Most contemporary scholars adopt intermediate positions, recognizing mutual shaping between technological artifacts and social contexts. This co-evolutionary perspective acknowledges both material constraints and human agency in technological change.
Which choice best describes the function of the last sentence?
It introduces a completely new perspective unrelated to the debate.
It describes a synthesis that incorporates elements from both positions.
It definitively rejects both determinism and constructivism.
It provides historical examples of technological development.
Correct Answer: B
Choice B is the best answer. The last sentence describes co-evolution as a synthesis acknowledging both material constraints (determinism) and human agency (constructivism).
- Evidence: The sentence states: "This co-evolutionary perspective acknowledges both material constraints and human agency."
- Reasoning: It combines the two opposing views mentioned earlier (determinism and constructivism) into a middle ground.
- Conclusion: The function is to describe a synthesis.
💡 Strategy: Look for "co-evolutionary" or "acknowledges both" -> Synthesis.
Choice A is incorrect because it synthesizes existing views. Choice C is incorrect because elements of both are retained. Choice D is incorrect because examples aren't provided.