The Art and Technique

In this book, the outstanding American historian, sociologist, and philosopher of technology Lewis Mumford (1895–1990) explores the fundamental tension between the artistic and technical beginnings in modern civilization. He traces the historical roots of the division between the “organic” world of art and the “mechanical” world of technology, analyzing how this confrontation has shaped modern culture. Mumford shows that the dominance of technical thinking has led to the impoverishment of human experience and the loss of the most important symbolic and aesthetic dimensions of life. At the same time, the book is not a simple accusation of technological progress. Instead, Mumford offers a deep reflection on the possibilities of synthesizing artistic and technical beginnings, capable of enriching human culture. He argues for the need to restore the balance between creative self-expression and technical rationality to create a more harmonious civilization. This classic work remains a relevant reflection on the place of art and technology in the life of modern society and the possibilities of their fruitful interaction.