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Using technology to improve our social organization doesn't have to mean some sort of dystopian techno-unanimity. In a more primitive time, would it be "scary"
by eloisius 13y ago
Using technology to improve our social organization doesn't have to mean some sort of dystopian techno-unanimity.
In a more primitive time, would it be "scary" to suggest that through technological advancements like agriculture, writing, and calendars we could achieve a better, more just society?
- tptacek 13y agoIt's possible to look at the antagonists of most dystopian fiction and find the noble intentions. Rayiner's point wasn't that technology intrinsically subverts the social contract; only that some technologists seem to want it to.
- eloisius 13y agoI feel like we're talking past one another so I'll shut up after this reply. I think this disagreement comes down to a difference of values and not just how they are implemented. Specifically, you seem to hold a notion of a social contract: a concept that I reject. Subverting a "contract" which has been forced upon me and to which I never agreed sounds like a noble endeavor to me, but I'm sure you'd be repulsed by the idea. Given our starkly different motivations, I believe the best outcome either of us could hope for in a debate is that we both remain reasoned and civil, as there's probably little chance of winning the other to our side.
- tptacek 13y agoI agree about our prospects. Have a good rest of your weekend.