Technology, violence, and peace

Authors

Brian Martin, University of WollongongFollow

RIS ID

74536

Publication Details

Martin, B. (1999). 'Technology, violence, and peace', in L. R. Kurtz (Eds.), Encyclopedia of Violence, Peace, and Conflict (vol.3) (pp. 447-459). New York: Academic Press.

Link to publisher version (URL)

Academic Press

Abstract

Technologies have long been used as tools for violence, from clubs and swords to cluster bombs and precision-guided missiles. In a less obvious way, technologies are vital to creating or maintaining peace in a society. For example, ample provision of food and shelter involves many technologies for agriculture, construction, and transport. Technologies can also be used to support nonviolent action, as in the case of communication systems designed to thwart aggression or surveillance.