Abstract Technology makes seafaring possible. Thus this paper explores some aspects of the relationship between technology and the evolution of seafaring and shipping. It begins by briefly describing some of the different ways of regarding technology and technological insight, ranging from the classical, instrumental view to ideas originating among 20th century thinkers. It goes on to consider the nature of technological progress and advance, drawing on a number of marine examples. Seafarers have necessarily employed technological means for centuries in order to engage in exploration, trade and, recently, in the exploitation of the resources of the seas and oceans. The final part of the paper is, therefore, concerned with the changing relationship between technology and people. It argues that while enabling people to encounter the world marine technology, like all technology, challenges them to exercise moral judgment and limits their capacity to act freely.
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