Possibilism in Technology: A Spanish-Speaking Response to Technological Determinism

This manuscript introduces “possibilism” as an alternative framework to technological determinism, drawing from the works of Spanish-speaking philosophers of technology. Unlike deterministic views, which see technology as an autonomous force shaping society with inevitable outcomes, possibilism conceptualizes technology as a collective, intentional practice that opens up new possibilities for human action and societal development. The study critiques both optimistic and pessimistic forms of technological determinism, emphasizing the role of human agency in shaping technological trajectories. By exploring the intersection of physical, imagined, pragmatic, and legitimate possibilities, this article argues that technology is not merely a tool driven by external forces but a dynamic process that actively transforms human realities. The manuscript situates this discussion within the broader context of Spanish-speaking philosophical traditions, particularly the works of Fernando Broncano, and highlights the significance of this perspective for contemporary debates on technology and society.