“It [the technium] compounds the good in the world because in addition to the direct good it brings, the arc of the technium keeps increasing choices, possibilities, freedom, and free will in the world, and that is an even greater good.” 263
Kelly argues that the totality of technology—computers, phones, law, software, hand tools, trains, etc—which he calls the technium, is an outgrowth of biological evolution. It is not precisely life, but is an extension of the same types of creative forces. Technology is growing, becoming more complex, and becoming a quasi-living ecosystem that has its own tendencies, drives, and desires.
To a large degree, he argues, the evolution of technology is preordained. Just as many biological creatures share certain traits (like eyes, bilateral symmetry, and DNA), future technologies will face constraints and follow impulses that will lead them toward certain qualities. Among other traits, technology will become ever more efficient, ubiquitous, complex, and sentient.