Jason Crawford Argues Technology Misuse Stems from Moral, Not Technical, Failings

Jason Crawford, founder of The Roots of Progress, recently sparked discussion with a "half-baked idea" asserting that many perceived "problems of technology" are, in fact, more profoundly "problems of morality and life guidance." His statement challenges the common narrative that technology is inherently to blame for societal ills, suggesting instead that human choices and a lack of moral leadership are the root causes.

Crawford posits that while people often criticize technology's inability to solve social problems, they simultaneously fault it for negative outcomes like addiction or distraction. He argues that issues such as the "misuse/abuse of technology" and the pursuit of "distraction or entertainment vs. meaning or personal enrichment" are fundamentally social problems requiring social solutions, including better guidance and individual choice.

The progress studies advocate contends that technology itself "might be able to help," suggesting that the premise of technology being unable to address social problems is flawed. He advocates for looking to "philosophy, ethics, and psychology for better answers and frameworks," shifting accountability from technology to "moral leaders who have not risen to the task of helping people choose wisely."

This perspective aligns with Crawford's broader work at The Roots of Progress, a nonprofit dedicated to fostering a culture of progress for the 21st century. The organization emphasizes understanding the historical and philosophical underpinnings of human advancement, often highlighting the human agency and moral frameworks that drive or hinder progress.

The debate over technology's role in society is ongoing, with many experts acknowledging both its potential for good and its capacity to exacerbate existing issues. While some argue for stricter technological regulation and design ethics to mitigate harm, Crawford's viewpoint redirects focus to individual responsibility and the societal structures that shape human behavior and decision-making in a technologically advanced world.