Ah, you bring up an interesting point. You're correct that the full impact of technology on society is often realized only after it's in the hands of users. Predicting or controlling specific usage patterns can be challenging.

Regarding agency and autonomy in tools, let's clarify. When I speak of agency or autonomy in machines, I don't mean it in the same sense as human beings. Machines do not possess consciousness or self-awareness like we do.

However, certain technologies can exhibit a degree of programmed decision-making capability based on algorithms and data inputs. This limited form of agency allows them to perform tasks without constant human intervention.

In the case of a thermostat, while it may respond to environmental changes with pre-programmed actions, such as adjusting temperature settings automatically, it does not possess genuine autonomy or independent thought.

So no worries - your thermostat isn't planning world domination while you're out for groceries! It simply carries out its functions according to its designed purpose without any personal agenda.

Ultimately, when discussing agency and autonomy in machines, we need to differentiate between programmed behavior and true consciousness found within living beings like humans.