Erewhon and Walden Two: Essay -- Comparative, Butler, Skinner

Close your eyes. Listen. What do you hear? Do you hear the gentle hum of a computer? Do you hear the noise of a distant radio or television? Do you hear the constant drone of a fan? Do you hear anything at all? to the highest degree likely you are near some sort of technological device. Whether that be the calculator in your desk, the watch on your wrist, or the light bulb give you the ability to read this essay (typed on a computer, by the way). The plain fact is that it is almost impossible to escape engineering science. It can non be debated that our modern gild has certain the role of applied science in the future of just about all aspects of our lives. We can see it in the economy, the military, domestically and internationally. To many the integration of applied science is a great convenience, to others a great mishap. Technology is a central idea presented in both Samuel Butlers Erewhon, as well as B.F. muleteers Walden Two. However, the two authors take a very different approach to their perception of technology in a Utopian hostel. The societies of Erewhon, and Walden Two, both recognize technology as a means to make life easier, however, their societal perceptions of technology and its affects on their future differ.Butler in Erewhon, and Skinner in Walden Two, both disturb that technology is means to make life easier. And while, each utopia has a different view on the effects of that technology it is important to note this distinctive similarity. The society of Erewhon has a very distinct negative view on any type of technology. However, Butler is very careful to note that technology does help to emend a persons condition and ability to succeed. For instance Gibbs translates one authors view on machines as s... ...whon the key to the future of society is the repression of technology, the key to the future of Walden Two is embracing technology. In conclusion, technology is viewed by both of these utopian societies as a way to improve life. This in itself is not very ground shaking or surprising. However, it is essential to note in order to visualize the great difference between the two Utopias. One embraces technology and encourages its exploitation, innovation and production as a way to further the individuals and societys happiness. The other on the other hand views technology as evil, something to be hidden and destroyed. It is seen as a danger not only to the physical attributes of society but also their future freedom. Thus, both societies understand that technology is useful, but differ in their views on societal perspectives and its effects on the future.