Technology and Society with Chris Miller and Allen Batteau

Technology and Society with Chris Miller and Allen Batteau

Author: PM Power Consulting August 8, 2025 Duration: 42:00

My guests today are Cultural engineer-anthropologist Allen Batteau, Ph.D. and design anthropologist Christine Z. Miller, Ph.D., co-authors of the book:  Tools, Totems, and Totalities: The Modern Construction of Hegemonic Technology


Christine Miller is a professor at the Savannah College of Art and Design, and Allen, a retired professor from Wayne State University.

They share details of their interdisciplinary backgrounds, their collaborative book project, and the implications of technology on society. They discuss the concept of sociotechnical systems, the brittleness of technology, and the ethical responsibilities of designers and software developers. They also touch upon the potential impact of AI, user-centered vs. social-centered design, and the role of speculative design in fostering innovation and hope for the future of humanity.


Some specific topics that they touched upon: 

  • Introduction and Guest Backgrounds
  • Christine's Academic Journey
  • Allen's Career Path
  • The Concept of Sociotechnical Systems
  • Hegemonic Technology in Software Development
  • AI: Artificial Intelligence or Artificial Ignorance?
  • User-Centered vs. Social-Centered Design
  • The Importance of Broader Perspectives in Education
  • The Role of Universities in Broader Education
  • The Impact of Habit-Forming Products
  • Productivity and Technology
  • The Evolution and Impact of the Internet
  • Ethical Responsibilities in Technology
  • The Urgency and Maintenance in Design
  • Brittleness of Technological Systems
  • Speculative Design and Future Perspectives
  • Concluding Thoughts on Technology and Hope


Allen W. Batteau, a cultural anthropologist and professor at Wayne State University, is a leading authority on the intersection of technology and society. His work, funded by agencies such as NASA and the National Science Foundation, includes numerous publications on aviation, flight safety, and technology in democratic societies.  

https://clasprofiles.wayne.edu/profile/ad4408


Christine Miller is a design educator and researcher at the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). With expertise in socio-technical systems, her research focuses on how social and cultural dynamics influence technology design and adoption. Her interdisciplinary approach bridges anthropology, design, and business

https://www.scad.edu/academics/faculty/christine-miller



Behind every line of code, there's a person with a story. Software People Stories, from PM Power Consulting, moves beyond abstract theory and polished case studies to explore the real, human experience of building technology. This isn't about hypotheticals; it's a collection of candid conversations with the practitioners themselves-developers, designers, product managers, and architects-who share firsthand accounts from the trenches. They talk about the paths that led to success and, just as importantly, the unexpected detours and failures that provided the most valuable lessons. Each episode delves into the nuanced journey of discovering what users need, designing elegant systems, navigating complex development, and ultimately delivering solutions that matter. By focusing on these personal narratives, the podcast reveals the core of software creation: a blend of technical skill, creative problem-solving, and team dynamics. Listeners gain practical wisdom and relatable perspectives on the challenges and triumphs inherent in the tech industry. Tune in for an honest look at the craft, where the stories of people are just as crucial as the software they build. You'll find this podcast a refreshing source of insight for anyone involved in or curious about the technology and business landscapes, offering career lessons learned the hard way.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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