Philosophy of Technology and Human Flourishing in Virtual Meetings

Navigating Heideggerian Concerns

In exploring the intersection of technology and human flourishing, the philosophical insights of Martin Heidegger and Albert Borgmann offer profound perspectives. Heidegger, in his seminal work "The Question Concerning Technology," expressed concerns about the pervasive nature of modern technology, highlighting its potential to distance individuals from an authentic engagement with the world.

Virtual meetings, as manifestations of contemporary technological advancements, often reflect this distancing, as screen-mediated interactions replace the immediacy of face-to-face encounters. Heidegger's notion of "enframing" resonates with the digital mediation inherent in virtual meetings, raising questions about the impact on our understanding of Being. Borgmann extends this discourse by emphasizing the importance of focal practices that engage individuals in meaningful, embodied interactions with technology. Virtual meetings, in their current form, often lack the depth and richness of such focal practices.

However, the incorporation of external stimuli, as hinted at in this research, becomes a potential avenue for addressing Heideggerian concerns. By introducing elements that evoke a more embodied and engaged presence, virtual meetings can transcend the limitations of mere technological enframing. This reevaluation aligns with Borgmann's call to design technologies that enhance the human experience rather than diminish it, contributing to the overall well-being and flourishing of individuals in the digital workspace.