The moral erasure of subjects in times of technological omnipresence: Critical reflections on science education inspired by Primo Levi's short story Order at a good price

This article analyzes the contributions of Primo Levi's short story Order at a good price to critically reflect on the moral erasure of subjects in our scientific and technological society. To this end, the article constructs a theoretical foundation that highlights discussions about the fate of reason and science during times when the absurd is amplified, as well as the need for critical thinking in an alienated society. The qualitative research identifies four units of analysis: belief in continuous and neutral scientific progress, the phantasmagorical function of science and technology, the relationship between science, technology, and economic interests and the Promethean role of science in constructing worlds and objects. Through the narrative surrounding the technological product Mimete, the short story problematizes the interrelation of science and technology with ethical and moral dimensions, which has important implications for education, science education, and teacher training.

Keywords:
Primo Levi; science and technology; natural histories; scientific education; teacher training.