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Describe and analyze two science-fiction movies, "Never Let Me Go" and "Limitless," based on social principles and the philosophy of technology. Identify concrete possibilities, problems, positives, and negatives raised by the technology depicted in these films. Explain how a philosophy of technology connects to their technological imaginings. Reflect on what you have learned in the course and how to communicate these ideas to a friend unfamiliar with the educational background.

Paper For Above instruction

Analysis of "Never Let Me Go" and "Limitless" Through the Lens of Technology and Social Principles

Science fiction films often serve as a mirror to contemporary societal concerns and technological advancements, offering a sandbox to explore ethical, social, and philosophical questions. The movies "Never Let Me Go" (2010) directed by Mark Romanek, and "Limitless" (2011) directed by Neil Burger, exemplify this by depicting advanced technologies that influence human identity, cognition, and morality. Analyzing these films through the framework of the philosophy of technology and social principles reveals both the promise and peril inherent in technological progress.

"Never Let Me Go": Ethical and Social Implications of Organ Harvesting Technology

"Never Let Me Go" is based on Kazuo Ishiguro’s novel and portrays a dystopian society where human clones are created solely to provide organs for the 'original' humans. The technology in this film raises urgent ethical questions about biomedical advancements, human rights, and social acceptance. From a social principles perspective, the film demonstrates the dangers of commodifying human life, where clones are dehumanized and stripped of agency. This depiction underscores the problem of exploitation in technological innovation, highlighting issues related to consent and the moral status of genetically engineered beings.

The social consequences extend to issues of inequality and societal marginalization. Clones are isolated and denied full participation in society, raising concerns about how technological capabilities can exacerbate social divides and undermine foundational principles of equality and dignity. These concerns reflect the critical discourse in the philosophy of technology, which cautions against unchecked technological developments that disregard ethical considerations and social justice.

"Limitless": Cognitive Enhancement and Its Social Impact

"Limitless" explores a pharmaceutical technology—NZT-48—that dramatically enhances human cognitive capacity. The film presents the potential positives of such cognitive enhancement, including increased productivity, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. However, it also illustrates significant problems, such as dependency, unethical use, and social inequality. Those with access to cognitive enhancement gain considerable advantages, potentially leading to a societal divide based on technological access, echoing fears about unequal distribution of technological benefits.

From a philosophical standpoint, "Limitless" raises questions about human nature and the pursuit of progress. It questions whether technological enhancement aligns with human flourishing and if it risks undermining authenticity. The film prompts reflection on whether human cognition should be subject to technological augmentation and the ethical boundaries that should govern such interventions.

Connecting Technology and Philosophy

The philosophy of technology examines how technological innovations shape human existence and societal values. Both films illustrate that technological developments are not morally neutral; they embody values and have consequences that influence social structures and individual identities. For "Never Let Me Go," the technology reflects misguided attempts at control over biology, leading to dehumanization. For "Limitless," the technology embodies human aspiration for transcendence but also warns of hubris and unintended harm.

These movies exemplify the importance of ethical frameworks in guiding technological progress. Philosophers like Heidegger and Ellul have warned about technological enframing and autonomous development, emphasizing the need for reflective governance. The films serve as cautionary tales demonstrating that technological advances should be critically evaluated within a social and ethical context to prevent harm and promote human well-being.

Lessons Learned and How to Communicate These Ideas

Throughout this course, I've come to appreciate that technology cannot be divorced from its social implications. Each innovation carries with it ethical responsibilities and potential societal impacts that must be carefully examined. Explaining these ideas to a friend unfamiliar with the field involves emphasizing how technology is intertwined with human values and social justice—highlighting how the films serve as allegories for real-world issues like bioethics, social inequality, and human authenticity.

For example, when watching "Never Let Me Go," I would point out how societal boundaries and ethical considerations shape technological applications, reminding my friend that behind every futuristic innovation lie complex moral questions. With "Limitless," I would discuss the balance between human potential and integrity, illustrating that technological enhancements are not inherently good but require thoughtful regulation and ethical oversight.

Conclusion

Both "Never Let Me Go" and "Limitless" present compelling visions of the future where technology profoundly influences human life. By analyzing these films through the social principles and philosophy of technology, it becomes clear that responsible innovation depends on integrating ethical reflection with technological advancement. As students and citizens, it is crucial to remain vigilant about the societal implications of new technologies and to foster discussions that promote human dignity, social justice, and sustainable progress.

References

• Heidegger, M. (1977). The Question Concerning Technology. In The Question Concerning Technology and Other Essays. Harper & Row.
• Ellul, J. (1964). The Technological Society. Vintage Books.
• Ishiguro, K. (2005). Never Let Me Go. Faber & Faber.
• Burger, N. (Director). (2011). Limitless [Film]. Relativity Media.
• Romanek, M. (Director). (2010). Never Let Me Go [Film]. FilmDistrict.
• Feenberg, A. (1999). Questioning Technology. Routledge.
• Winner, L. (1977). Autonomous Technology: Technics-out-of-Control and the Meltdown of Humanism. MIT Press.
• Capurro, R., & Hjørland, B. (2003). What is information ethics? Journal of Information Ethics, 12(1), 3-14.
• Walsh, T. (2010). Ethical implications of bioengineering: An introduction. Bioethics, 24(2), 67-70.
• Scharmer, O. (2009). Theory U: Leading from the Future as It Emerges. Berrett-Koehler Publishing.