Simulation and Its Discontents

by Sherry Turkle

How the simulation and visualization technologies so pervasive in science, engineering, and design have changed our way of seeing the world.

Genres: Sociology, Philosophy, Nonfiction, Computers, Research, Psychology, Science

232 pages, ebook

First published January 1, 2009

About the author

Sherry Turkle is Abby Rockefeller Mauzé Professor of the Social Studies of Science and Technology in the Program in Science, Technology, and Society at MIT and the founder (2001) and current director of the MIT Initiative on Technology and Self. Professor Turkle received a joint doctorate in sociology and personality psychology from Harvard University and is a licensed clinical psychologist.

Professor Turkle writes on the "subjective side" of people's relationships with technology, especially computers. She is an expert on mobile technology, social networking, and sociable robotics. Profiles of Professor Turkle have appeared in such publications as The New York Times, Scientific American, and Wired Magazine. She has been named "woman of the year" by Ms. Magazine and among the "forty under forty" who are changing the nation by Esquire Magazine. She is a featured media commentator on the social and psychological effects of technology for CBS, NBC, ABC, CNN, the BBC, and NPR, including appearances on such programs as Nightline, Frontline, 20/20, and The Colbert Report.

Reviews

[Curtis Newbold · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. Incredibly accessible, yet rooted in the complex problem of living and working within a society that functions on simulation, algorithm, and mechanical reproduction. Turkle has a fascinating way, through anecdote, to bring an important discussion to the forefront. I only wish she had titled it something else so that it would appeal to a broader audience, who could value greatly from a clearer understanding of how science in society works. This book isn't just for academics, but it appears that way from the cover.