THE THEORETICAL BASES FOR THE ANALYSIS OF UNINTENDED SOCIOCULTURAL CONSEQUENCES OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES: UPDATING L. MUMFORD'S APPROACH

Abstract

Aim. The article aims at revealing the heuristic possibilities of the concept of «Megamachine» by Lewis Mumford (1895-1990) to analyze the unintended socio-cultural consequences of the spread of digital technology. Methodology. Using the methods of historical, philosophical and socio-philosophical analysis, the provisions of the Mumford concept on the impact of the development of technology on society and man are considered. Results. The results of the application of Mumford's approach to the analysis of digital society are shown: the «social prototype» of digital machines is determined, the features of desocialization and dehumanization of social relationships and practices, the specifics of locus control, discipline, the transformation of types of solidarity, the transfer of intellectual and strong-willed human functions to digital machines are revealed. Research implications. The study updates the concept of «Megamachine» by Mumford for the analysis of unintended socio-cultural consequences of digitalization and shows how it is possible to trace the emergence of new forms of determination and behavior of essential human forces under the conditions of technological progress with its help.