The paper starts with an analysis of similarities and differences between experimentation and technological production. It is argued that both imply an active intervention in nature and society, but that the cognitive and social aspects of experiment and technology may display considerable differences. The theoretical analysis is illustrated by means of examples taken, in particular, from the technology of nuclear energy production. Next, it is shown that, from the viewpoint of this paper, the technology conception prevailing in public debates on technology and in technology policy is inadequate; again, the case of nuclear energy serves as an example. Finally, it is concluded that scientific or technological knowledge and social power are intrinsically connected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]