Hanin Hijab, 09 July 2017
The concept of technocracy
The idea of technocracy originates from the Greek words “techni” meaning technical skills and “kratos” meaning rule or authority. Essentially, technocracy involves applying scientific methodologies by highly skilled individuals with leadership qualities and scientific expertise to address societal issues and enhance the well-being of citizens, aiming for social advancement.
The beginning of technocracy
Technocracy emerged in the United States in 1932, led by specialists in engineering, architecture, and economics. They advocated for analyzing social phenomena and deriving governing laws from them. Given the complexity of economics in society, they argued that only specialists in economic management, scientists, and engineers could effectively manage it. This call stemmed from the retroactive effects of technological advancements.
What is technocratic government?
Today, the term “technocratic government” refers to a type of governance shaped by recent advancements in technology. It prioritizes competency and expertise over political affiliations, operating as a non-partisan entity. Comprised of specialists in industrial, commercial, and economic domains, a technocratic government focuses solely on employing technological knowledge to address societal challenges, irrespective of political, religious, or ethnic considerations.
Who is the “technocrat”?
A technocrat is a leader with decision-making authority, typically appointed rather than elected, renowned for expertise in a particular field. They undertake specific tasks for a temporary period without seeking long-term positions. Utilizing their skills and experience, they devise and execute plans for societal advancement. Examples of technocrats include ministers of finance, health, and agriculture, wielding power through rational legitimacy to spearhead societal modernization and wield absolute authority in their assigned tasks.
Is the technocrat statesman independent?
We’ve discussed how technocrats are appointed by the government, often through political blocs, the Prime Minister, or the President. As a result, the technocrat remains associated with the party that nominated them, lacking complete independence. They may find themselves unintentionally aligned with a specific bloc or answerable to a superior who facilitated their appointment.
