THE MYTH OF THE MACHINE: THE PENTAGON OF POWER

THE MYTH OF THE MACHINE: THE PENTAGON OF POWER
Author: Lewis Mumford
Publisher: Harcourt Brace Jovanovich
Edition: 1970 Edition
Pages: 496

The Pentagon of Power is the culminating volume in Lewis Mumford’s epic critique of modern technological culture. In this compelling follow-up to Technics and Human Development, Mumford deepens his exploration into the social, political, and psychological consequences of mankind’s evolving relationship with machines. He argues that rather than serving humanity, modern technology has increasingly come to dominate it, forming a “Pentagon of Power”—a symbol for the centralization of authority, militarization, bureaucracy, and a mechanistic worldview that stifles creativity, autonomy, and ethical progress.

Mumford meticulously charts the historical rise of the authoritarian technocratic state, examining how ancient ideologies of power were reanimated in the 20th century through industrial and technological systems. Far from merely condemning machines, he calls for a rebalancing of values—a recovery of humanistic ideals, ecological awareness, and democratic principles that can redirect technology toward life-enhancing purposes. The work is a visionary synthesis of philosophy, history, sociology, and ethics, all written with Mumford’s characteristic insight, eloquence, and moral urgency.

This 1970 edition published by Harcourt Brace Jovanovich is a critical and timely read, especially relevant for those interested in the philosophical dimensions of technology, environmental sustainability, and the future of democratic society. It remains one of the most influential and challenging works in the field of philosophy of technology, offering not only critique but a passionate call to action.

• Landmark work by one of the 20th century’s most influential thinkers

• Second volume in The Myth of the Machine series

• Combines history, philosophy, ethics, and cultural analysis

• Explores the rise of the technocratic state and its societal consequences

• 496 pages of rigorous thought and powerful prose