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MENTAL MODEL · M6031

Social Construction of Technology, SCOT

Social Construction of Technology, SCOT
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Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-28

CORE DEFINITION

Social constructionism is an epistemology in sociology and communication that examines how people collectively construct their understanding of the world, which forms the basis for shared assumptions about reality. The core idea of this theory is that meaning is developed in coordination with others, not independently by each individual. Social constructs may vary depending on the social environment or events occurring during the period in which they are situated. Money or currency can be seen as an example of a social construct because people in society agree to give it importance and value. Self-concept/self-identity is also an example of a social construct. Charles Cooley, based on his looking-glass self theory, asserted: "I am not what I think you think I am; I am what I think you think I am."

SCAFFOLDING EFFECT

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Social constructionism is an epistemology in sociology and communication that examines how people collectively construct their understanding of the world, which forms the basis for shared assumptions about reality. The core idea of this theory is that meaning is developed in coordination with others, not independently by each individual. Social constructs may vary depending on the social environment or events occurring during the period in which they are situated.

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Opposing technological determinism: technological forms are not uniquely inevitable but are the result of negotiation and contestation among relevant social groups (users, designers, opponents). The 'victory' of a technology embodies power and interest distribution, not purely superior performance.

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Source support: Explicit

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    zh.wikipedia.orghttps://zh.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E7%A4%BE%E4%BC%9A%E5%BB%BA%E6%9E%84%E4%B8%BB%E4%B9%89ZH · Explicit
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