Opening the Black Box and Closing It Behind You: On Microsociology in the Social Analysis of Technology

This paper explores the problems in developing an analysis of technology that gives attention to both the complex detail of technological activity and broader social and economic influences. It examines the work of a group who have applied perspectives from the sociology of scientific knowledge to develop a claimed 'new sociology of technology'. The starting point of their analysis of technological development is the action and interaction between technologists and other individuals and groups directly involved. Criticisms of this 'micro-sociological' approach include the drawing of undue parallels between scientific and technological activities, and the extrapolation from micro-level activities eg of technological communities to analyse phenomena at a broader societal level. Empirical work from this group is contrasted with studies that start from analysis of the structural context and move towards the fine detail of development. Case-studies by the authors in the field of energy technology, the regulation of technological hazards and industrial process technologies are used to highlight the need for developed theories of broad social processes including the role of the state, its relationship with social interests and of class relationships in production Some elements of a theoretical model are outlined that could yield an integrated explanation of influences at a structural level as well as a detailed local level.