Humans and technology

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Chapter 3 in The Social and Legal Impact of Autonomous Vehicles, 2025, pp 29-46 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: Chapter 3 delves into the complex interplay between humans and technology, using the ‘snakes and ladders’ metaphor to illustrate the unpredictable path of technological progress. This chapter investigates how groundbreaking technological initiatives secure support from both government and private sectors, highlighting potential societal benefits and significant challenges. It examines historical examples such as President Kennedy’s moon landing project, and global efforts to combat climate change and Covid, to highlight the crucial role of visionary leaders in advancing technology. Recognizing the dangers of such leadership, it emphasizes the importance of learning from failures, with reference to Thomas Edison’s relentless quest for a viable light bulb. Finally, the chapter discusses the likely persistence of human driving, urging consideration of the social and economic impacts of transitioning to autonomous vehicles (AVs), and advocating for a cautious approach to technological adaptation.

Keywords: Economics and Finance; Environment; Geography; Law - Academic; Urban and Regional Studies (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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