The Dominant Narrative

Abstract

In non-fiction writing about technology, one narrative celebrates and champions technology. In this narrative, technology is like a mythic hero. It solves riddles, overcomes obstacles, cures woes, and brings peace and prosperity. It is a story of boundless optimism and unshakeable faith in technology as the bearer of good and bountiful gifts—our crops, our health, our jobs, our shelter. It liberates and empowers us. According to this narrative, technology is essential and guarantees a future in which anything is possible and everything is better. Such a narrative defines our world, ourselves, and our purpose in a new way—specifically, in relation to technology. This story of affirmation is, perhaps, our new master narrative, since we are indisputably united by and around technology.