Habermas, Philosophy of Technology and the 21st Century

Abstract

The end of the nineteenth century and the beginning of the twentieth century was an extraordinary period in terms of the formation of the modern philosophical spirit due to the opposing positions that arose in it. Characteristic of this period was the coexistence of an unbridled faith and enthusiasm for technological development together with a no less intense pessimism with respect to the future of society. Throughout the twentieth century several thinkers devoted their time to reflect on technology and its social interrelations. This paper is divided into three parts. The first is intended to be a journey and an approach to the formation of the philosophy of technology as a discipline. The second part situates Habermas in the midst of a constellation of philosophers related to the Frankfurt School. The last part deals with the debate between Habermas and Sloterdijk on the limits of bio- technology facing the 21st century.