Sexy sleuths Salander and Blomkvist love their technology and they sure need it for their work. Computers and other reproductive technology (printing, photography) are integral to the plot. While good technology can do nothing for the sloppy detective, these unsloppy detectives use technology to fell dangerous financial villains, solve cold cases, and uncover serial killers. Without photographic technology and hackers willing to trace phone calls, Blomkvist would have had to work much harder to crack the case of Harriet Vanger. Salander, on the other hand, uses technology to steal millions of dollars, and to exact revenge on her sadistic guardian.
Questions About Technology and Modernization
- Is technology in Tattoo represented as generally positive for society? For the individual?
- Do you think hackers can play a positive role in society, or not?
- If Blomkvist hadn't figured out that Harriet was afraid of Martin from photographs, could he have solved the case?
- Which technologies are most important to your life? Which ones do you wish had never been invented? Does this novel change your outlook on technology at all?