The chapter by Donald MacKenzie and Judy Wajcman in *The Social Shaping of Technology* explores the complex relationship between technology and society. They argue that while technology is indeed a vital aspect of human life, it is not solely determined by scientific progress or internal logic. Instead, technology is shaped by a variety of social forces, including economic, political, and cultural factors. The authors critique the concept of technological determinism, which posits that technology changes independently of societal influences. They emphasize that technology is not merely a passive recipient of societal changes but an active participant in shaping society. For example, they discuss how the design of technologies can be influenced by social goals and constraints, and how technological choices can have broader social implications, such as affecting civil liberties or economic inequality. MacKenzie and Wajcman also examine the role of science and technology in society, arguing that the relationship between the two is more complex than a simple one-way influence. They highlight the active role of scientists and engineers in shaping technology, rather than viewing them as mere recipients of scientific discoveries. They further explore the concept of technological paradigms and systems, where existing technologies and social structures influence the development of new technologies. The chapter includes case studies to illustrate these points, such as the development of personal computing and suspension bridge designs, showing how social factors and interactions among different actors shape technological outcomes. Overall, the authors advocate for a more nuanced understanding of technology, one that recognizes its social dimensions and the active role of humans in its creation and use.The chapter by Donald MacKenzie and Judy Wajcman in *The Social Shaping of Technology* explores the complex relationship between technology and society. They argue that while technology is indeed a vital aspect of human life, it is not solely determined by scientific progress or internal logic. Instead, technology is shaped by a variety of social forces, including economic, political, and cultural factors. The authors critique the concept of technological determinism, which posits that technology changes independently of societal influences. They emphasize that technology is not merely a passive recipient of societal changes but an active participant in shaping society. For example, they discuss how the design of technologies can be influenced by social goals and constraints, and how technological choices can have broader social implications, such as affecting civil liberties or economic inequality. MacKenzie and Wajcman also examine the role of science and technology in society, arguing that the relationship between the two is more complex than a simple one-way influence. They highlight the active role of scientists and engineers in shaping technology, rather than viewing them as mere recipients of scientific discoveries. They further explore the concept of technological paradigms and systems, where existing technologies and social structures influence the development of new technologies. The chapter includes case studies to illustrate these points, such as the development of personal computing and suspension bridge designs, showing how social factors and interactions among different actors shape technological outcomes. Overall, the authors advocate for a more nuanced understanding of technology, one that recognizes its social dimensions and the active role of humans in its creation and use.