Once upon a time a man was contemplating the ways in which Nature operates, and he discovered, because of his concentration and application, how fire could be made. (Tales of the Dervishes, p.39)
Can you imagine not knowing how to start a fire?
Today, we have matches, lighters, and electrical switches which will start fires for us instantly. Perhaps you have even used a magnifying glass to light a fire. If you’ve had any wilderness survival training, maybe you can even start a fire by rubbing two sticks together. Fire is so common today, that it is hard for us to imagine a time when people might not have had it.
It must have seemed like magic.
Looking at today’s technology, what is magical now? Science-fiction has been filled with examples of ray guns, star ships, transporters, medical scanners and treatments that all seemed impossible or at least very futuristic when first imagined. We now have 3d printers capable of creating bones and organs. We can send people and objects into space. Self-driving cars and robots that cook exist today.
How do we view technological innovations? Are we afraid? Do those with it wield power over the rest of us? Do we worship those who have it? Do we worship the technology itself? Do we try and ignore or hide it from ourselves or others? What attitudes are necessary in order for new technology to become useful for us? How do we teach or persuade others that this new technology is good for us?
Groups in The Story of Fire answered these questions differently. Considering technology and innovation is only one potential application we can explore here.