MENTAL MODEL · M3107

Technological Somnambulism

CultureHigh supportPhilosophy

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Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30

CORE DEFINITION

Proposed by Langdon Winner, it refers to the phenomenon that humans, when creating and using technology, are like sleepwalkers, focusing only on the function and efficiency of technology (how it works) while completely ignoring its restructuring effects on human lifestyles, political structures, and thinking patterns (what it means).

SCAFFOLDING EFFECT

psychology

Reduce cognitive load

Awakening of technological reflection. When introducing new tools (such as AI, remote collaboration software), one should not only ask "How much time can it save?" but also "How will it irreversibly change our interpersonal relationships and power structures?"

anchor

Anchor fast decisions

The adoption of technology is often driven by an "efficiency narrative," while its reshaping of social structures and power is slow and hidden. The somnambulistic state makes people passively accept the consequences of technology, losing the ability to reflect on and choose the direction of technology.

MINIMUM ACTION

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Practice this model in one real situation:

When introducing technology, ask both "How does it work?" and "What does it mean?" 2) Infer its long-term reshaping of relationships, power, and habits
Set boundaries during the malleable period
Establish mechanisms for technological reflection and review.

Check to track your progress (stored locally)

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Source support: Explicit

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en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Technological_somnambulismZH · Explicit
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