Borgmann developed what is called the 'device paradigm' philosophy with the core notions of focal things and focal practices, commodification, etc. He warned us that when we commodify our everyday experiences through the use of technology, the experiences are not the same, they lose essential qualities. However, the commodification of practices is so convenient, it leads to a comfortable life where everything is constantly available to us without any concerns about how it is done and with no effort on our part. For instance, our homes are heated or cooled without us even knowing how it works. We only turn the thermostat. He discusses this in contrast with the fireplace that requires knowledge about wood, how to light a fire and the obvious presence the fire has in the house. It connects us tot he place, to time and to others.
Our world with smartphones and their apps is another more modern example. Most apps are built on an idea that aligns almost perfectly with Borgmann's theory. The idea is that an app will make us independent of time, people, and place. We can use them at any time, without needing other people and we can be anywhere. The experience is commodified. Press the button and you get it. How it works, who is actually doing it, or where it is done is irrelevant to us. We are fully disconnected. And we are not engaged in any focal practices. According to Borgmann, what makes an experience a focal practice is when it is connected with time, people, and place. It may not be so convenient or practical (as obvious with the example of the fireplace), but it connects us with practices, people, history, places and it limits us when it comes to what decisions and prioritizations we can do.
Most people are in their everyday lives happy to trade connections (focal) with convenience (commodities). But in these pandemic times, we can see how Borgmann's philosophy is emerging as a thought pattern among a lot of people. People are getting tired of Zoom meetings, not because they do not function necessarily, often they work quite well, but there is something missing. Real meetings require so much more, we have to travel to a specific place, we have to book a room, we have to dress accordingly, we have to engage in small talk before and after the meeting, we might have to make sure there is coffee available, etc. People are reflecting on what it is that is missing in this world where everything is commodified. We cannot go to restaurants, instead, we order prepared food to our homes. We do not have to do anything. But it is not the same. Something is missing. Maybe Borgmann's philosophy describes and explains what is going on.
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Borgmann, A. (2009). Focal things and practices. Readings in the Philosophy of Technology, 115-35.
