Philosophy Colloquium

Dr. Benjamin Hale

U. of Colorado Boulder

"The Lingering Value of Technological Artifacts" 

Thursday, May 12, 11 AM — 12:30 PM

Bldg 10 Room 223

Electronic waste is the fastest growing form of waste worldwide. Unfortunately, disposal is not straightforward and recycling is hindered by a tendency of consumers to resist recycling their e-waste.

There seems to be no good reason why people hoard these technologies.

They ostensibly have no utility value, no market value, and only arguable sentimental value. This paper aims to address the reasons why we might hold value in our technological artifacts. Answering this question hopefully offers some clarity on how to move forward with more successful e-waste management programs.

 Presented with support from the College of Liberal Arts Speakers Fund.