Vespers of thought | Philosophy and technology at La Salle-URL

Rapidly evolving technologies are transforming every aspect of our lives, from the way we communicate to the way we work.  

Technologies allow us to access information and resources that were previously unimaginable. They allow us to connect with people around the world and create new forms of expression.  

However, technological progress also poses new challenges. Technologies can be used to manipulate and control people. They can be used to create inequalities and discrimination. In this context, philosophy has a fundamental role to play.  

Philosophy is the tool that can guide us in the revolt for truth in this world where Fake News, Post-Truth and Technology do not make it easy for us."

- Dr. Joan Cabó, director of Philosophy programs at La Salle-URL

A few days ago, within the cycle of conferences "Vespers of Thought" organized by La Salle-URL, the first debate was held in the library of Sant Gervasi - Joan Maragall, coinciding with the World Philosophy Day. More than 50 people participated and the session was led by the experts Dr. Joan Cabó, Dr. Joan García del Muro, Dr. Rosa María Alsina and Dr. Carles Llinàs. 

Here are some of the questions answered by the speakers:  

The role of philosophy in humanizing technological progress.  

Philosophy can help to humanize technological progress in different ways. On the one hand, it helps us to understand the human values that should guide technological development. Moreover, it is able to develop a critical view of technologies, helping us to identify the possible risks and negative consequences of technological progress.  

Finally, philosophy enables us to imagine ways of using technologies that promote the common good.  

What challenges does technology pose to human beings?  

One of the main challenges is the loss of control over our lives. Technology allows us to automate tasks and access information immediately, but it also makes us more dependent on it.  

Another challenge is the loss of humanity. Technology allows us to create artificial worlds that isolate us from the real world. This can have a negative impact on our social relationships and mental health.  

Artificial intelligence technologies can perform tasks that used to be done by humans, which can lead to a feeling of disengagement and lack of purpose. This can affect people's self-esteem and identity. 

Philosophy/humanities response  

Humanities play an essential role in facing the challenges that technology presents to our society. They thus contribute to the development of critical thinking skills, empathy and creativity.  

Specifically, the humanities can help us to:  

• Develop a critical awareness of the risks of technology.  
• Propose ways to use technology to promote the common good.  
• Help people find meaning in an increasingly technological world.  

The practice of philosophy in today's context  

In our current context, characterized by the rule of fake news, constant attempts to manipulate public opinion and the trade in truth, the practice of philosophy makes more sense than ever.  

Philosophy helps us to develop critical thinking skills, the ability to discern between truth and falsehood and the ability to defend ourselves against manipulation. Thus, it becomes an indispensable tool for building a more just, more equitable and more humane society.    

In the web agenda of La Salle-URL, you can find information about upcoming events related to philosophy.  If you want to deepen your knowledge, we invite you to discover the new Philosophy courses at La Salle-URL:  

Course on Post-Truth and Fake News with Joan García del Muro.  

Course on Thinking Technology in Today's World with Carles Llinàs