Technology is the use of science and engineering to create tools and machines that are useful for humankind. This includes both tangible tools, such as utensils or machines, and intangible ones, such as software.
Technology has a profound impact on society and the environment, both positively and negatively. It can also raise new ethical issues that challenge traditional norms.
The relationship between technology and society is often described as synergistic, symbiotic, co-dependent, co-influential, and co-producing. This is because technology enables and reflects societal values, such as economics, ethics, institutions, and groups.
When developing technology, it is usually a step-by-step process that requires sustained effort and commitment. It is rarely possible to translate an idea or scientific result into a usable product in the shortest amount of time, so many technological innovations stall midway through their development.
Throughout history, technology has been associated with some of the greatest achievements in human civilization. However, it has also caused great damage to the environment and has raised questions about the future of humanity.
As a result, the impacts of technology are constantly being studied and debated. These questions include, but are not limited to: the cost and benefits of different technologies; their effects on the economy; the role of government in regulating technology; the consequences of using new technology; how to minimize risks to health, safety, and the environment; the implications for the human race; and how technology affects culture.