Agreed. I think there's plenty of space to make a difference in tech. I don't think it's automatic in any way (i.e. making a positive social impact) -- I think

Agreed. I think there's plenty of space to make a difference in tech. I don't think it's automatic in any way (i.e. making a positive social impact) -- I think the choices of every CEO and every worker matter. Facebook and/or Google could turn the industry in completely different directions (e.g. more centered in providing culture, growth and genuine interaction) if there was the will. The extent to which they're glorified ad-machines is a choice. And outside of that (i.e. big tech) there's plenty to invent and contribute in countless ways. Medical equipment, niche technology products, innovative and useful consumer technologies, the warriors we don't hear about improving industrial processes and everyday stuff, etc. I have younger friends looking to enter the game industry. I tell them: make sure you don't land somewhere that makes you start hating what you loved just so you can tell yourself you make games (having addiction-machine mobile games in mind). Better work anywhere else and wait for the opportunity to do it right, I believe. Selling your soul is always a choice... and it's not an easily replaceable good.