  If the parameters defining the physics of our universe departed from their
present values, the observed rich structure and complexity would not be
supported. This article considers whether similar fine-tuning of parameters
applies to technology. The anthropic principle is one means of explaining the
observed values of the parameters. This principle constrains physical theories
to allow for our existence, yet the principle does not apply to the existence
of technology. Cosmological natural selection has been proposed as an
alternative to anthropic reasoning. Within this framework, fine-tuning results
from selection of universes capable of prolific reproduction. It was originally
proposed that reproduction occurs through singularities resulting from
supernovae, and subsequently argued that life may facilitate the production of
the singularities that become offspring universes. Here I argue technology is
necessary for production of singularities by living beings, and ask whether the
physics of our universe has been selected to simultaneously enable stars,
intelligent life, and technology capable of creating progeny. Specific
technologies appear implausibly equipped to perform tasks necessary for
production of singularities, potentially indicating fine-tuning through
cosmological natural selection. These technologies include silicon electronics,
superconductors, and the cryogenic infrastructure enabled by the thermodynamic
properties of liquid helium. Numerical studies are proposed to determine
regions of physical parameter space in which the constraints of stars, life,
and technology are simultaneously satisfied. If this overlapping parameter
range is small, we should be surprised that physics allows technology to exist
alongside us. The tests do not call for new astrophysical or cosmological
observations. Only computer simulations of well-understood condensed matter
systems are required.
