The personal computer and society: a technology assessment

Abstract

The University of Southern California has initiated a technology assessment of the personal computer. The assessment is partially supported by the National Science Foundation. The ultimate purpose of a technology assessment is to help provide a more human future with less shock. This technology assessment is directed toward examining the potential future impacts of personal computers and identifying the public policy issues associated with these possibilities. This article summarizes the major factors that we intend to explore during the assessment.