Abstract

This article, an introduction to the edited volume "Mensch - Maschine" ("Man - Machine"), looks at the relationship between humans and machines from a pop cultural angle. Taking its cue from, and analyzing, Kraftwerk's seminal electropop album "Man - Machine" (1978) from the perspective of the sociology of knowledge, the article identifies key topical areas that are inherent in Kraftwerk's work (and not just in the lyrics). These provide critical questions that are relevant for inquiries into the nature of man/machine relationships even today (and even without caring about Kraftwerk or electropop at all).