Critical technical practice is critical theory

Critical theory

Critical theory is an examination and critique of society and culture, drawing from knowledge across the social sciences and humanities. The term has two different meanings with different origins and histories: one originating in sociology and the other in literary criticism...

 based approach towards technological design proposed by Phil Agre where critical

Critical theory

Critical theory is an examination and critique of society and culture, drawing from knowledge across the social sciences and humanities. The term has two different meanings with different origins and histories: one originating in sociology and the other in literary criticism...

 and cultural

Cultural studies

Cultural studies is an academic field grounded in critical theory and literary criticism. It generally concerns the political nature of contemporary culture, as well as its historical foundations, conflicts, and defining traits. It is, to this extent, largely distinguished from cultural...

 theories are brought to bear in the work of designers and engineer

Engineer

An engineer is a professional practitioner of engineering, concerned with applying scientific knowledge, mathematics and ingenuity to develop solutions for technical problems. Engineers design materials, structures, machines and systems while considering the limitations imposed by practicality,...

s. One of the goals of critical technical practice is to increase awareness and critical reflection on the hidden assumptions, ideologies and values underlying technology design.

People whose work contributes to the Critical Technical Practice agenda include
Phil Agre,
Paul Dourish

Paul Dourish

Paul Dourish is a computer scientist best known for his work at the intersection of computer science and social science. He is a professor at the University of California, Irvine, where he joined the faculty in 2000.- Life and Work :...

,
Natalie Jeremijenko

Natalie Jeremijenko

Natalie Jeremijenko is an artist and engineer whose background includes studies in biochemistry, physics, neuroscience and precision engineering. She is an active member of the net.art movement, and her work primarily explores the interface between society, the environment and technology...

,
Michael Mateas,
Simon Penny

Simon Penny

Simon Graeme Penny is an Australian artist, theorist, curator and teacher in the field of Interactive Media Art.-Early life:...

,
Warren Sack,
Garnet Hertz,
and
Phoebe Sengers.

External links

• Toward a Critical Technical Practice by Phil Agre
• Critical Technical Practices page by Phoebe Sengers