Document Type : Research Paper

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Abstract

Nuclear technology is the most controversial product of the past century and can be investigated as an important case study in the contemporary philosophy of technology. Theories of the classical philosophers of technology were generally about the nature of the modern technology as a whole and the dissimilarities of the different technologies are underestimated in these analyses. But, in the philosophy of technology after experimental turn, the specific features of different technologies are scrutinized. This approach to technology and its social significance is more concrete, more empirically informed, more constructivist and less pessimistic about technology than the classical one. In addition, the new approach places a greater emphasis on alternative ways of developing and using technologies. Based on the recent attitude in the philosophy of technology and with an analysis of the characteristics of nuclear technology, this article assesses the compatibility and limits of the classical philosophy of technology in enlightenment of nuclear technology.

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