The statement highlights how technological determinism often operates as an implicit, unquestioned assumption presented as "self-evident" or "natural" common sense. Writers can use persuasive language to portray technological determinism as an unproblematic given, making sweeping assertions about the impact and consequences of technology. Such language can create an animated, visionary, or prophetic tone that may be appealing and convincing to many readers. However, it is important to critically examine the assumptions underlying technological determinism and recognize that the relationship between technology and society is complex, multifaceted, and shaped by human agency, values, and social dynamics. Taking a nuanced approach can help avoid deterministic thinking and promote a more thoughtful understanding of the role of technology in society.

For example, within a culture that has widespread access to smartphones, the use of social media platforms may vary greatly among different individuals, groups, and sub-cultures. Some individuals may use social media for personal connections, while others may primarily use it for professional networking. Certain groups or sub-cultures may prioritize social activism and use social media as a tool for organizing and mobilizing, while others may focus on entertainment and leisure activities on social media. The extent, frequency, and purpose of social media use can vary significantly based on individual preferences, interests, and social norms within different groups or sub-cultures, even within the same broader culture.

How does Abbe Mowshowitz's perspective on technology as an autonomous agent of change reconcile with the notion of human agency and choice in shaping modern society? Is it possible to separate the influence of technology on social organization and individual behavior from human decision-making and values?

Technocentrism can sometimes oversimplify complex issues, ignoring the multidimensional nature of social phenomena. It may neglect the role of human values, ethics, and decision-making in shaping the direction of technological development and its impact on society. It can also lead to deterministic thinking, where technology is seen as an autonomous force that dictates human behavior, rather than acknowledging that humans have agency in how they use, adopt, or reject technology.

In reality, the relationship between technology and society is complex and multifaceted, and it is often a dynamic interplay between technology and human agency, social arrangements, cultural norms, and other contextual factors. While technology can shape social and cultural phenomena, it is also shaped by human decisions, behaviors, and social arrangements. Recognizing the interplay between technology and society is essential for a nuanced understanding of how they influence each other and how they jointly shape the world we live in.