The term technology has a multitude of meanings, depending on the context of its use. In most cases, it refers to devices, systems, and methods. Specifically, those which result from scientific knowledge that is currently being used for practical purposes.
In other words, technology is the application of scientific knowhow for practical purposes, i.e., the practical aims of human life.
Whenever any of us use our scientific knowledge to solve a practical problem, we are, in fact, using technology. Typically, we solve the problem using a tool or device.
Technology is part of our history
Technology has been part of human evolution ever since we first started using tools. Millions of years ago, hominids began using primitive tools. Between one million and half-a-million years ago, we discovered fire and how to use it. About 75,000 years ago, technological advancements sped up considerably.
When we started making and wearing clothes and building our homes, we were able to spread into new areas of the globe.
Technology – an economist’s interpretation
For an economist, the term may include any system or device that helps boost productivity or make things better. Productivity is, for example, total production per worker per hour. If I can get each worker in my clothing factory to produce more shirts per hour, I have boosted productivity.
Most of us think about physical things like computers and sophisticated machines when somebody mentions technology.
Economists, on the other hand, think about ways of producing goods or delivering services in novel and more effective and profitable ways.
Information technology
Information technology or IT includes the development, maintenance, and use of computers and other smart devices, as well as their software, networks, and systems.
Software means computer programs, i.e., codes and instructions that make computers, smartphones, and other electronic devices function. Without software, a computer is just a collection of useless metal and plastic components.
Hardware refers to the parts of a computer that we can touch, such as the monitor (screen), motherboard, speakers, mouse, and keyboard.
Etymology of technology
Etymology is the study of where words came from, i.e., their origin, as well as how their meanings have evolved thorughout history.
The term technology first emerged in the English language in 1610. At the time, it meant “a discourse or treatise on an art or the arts.” The word originated from the Greek word “Tekhnologia,” meaning “systematic treatment of an art, craft, or technique.”