QuoteProject
The good news about computers is that they do what you tell them to do. The bad news is that they do what you tell them to do.
Ted Nelson
ShareWTF𝕏

Interpretation

What this quote means

Computers are reliable but also rigid, executing commands exactly as given without consideration for context or nuance.

This quote highlights the dual nature of computers: on one hand, they are dependable tools that follow our instructions precisely, providing efficiency and accuracy. On the other hand, this same quality can be a drawback, as computers lack the ability to interpret commands beyond their literal meaning, potentially leading to unintended outcomes if not managed carefully.

Themes

ComputersTechnologyInstructionsAutomationReliability

In practice

Example use cases

This quote is perfect for a presentation on computer programming ethics.

Similar quotes

When you go to Japan, there is such a talent shortage that the debate about AI taking jobs is almost non-existent. The debate is, how can we automate this so we can get all the work done?
Andrew NgRead
Merging the ability to conduct surveillance that reveals every aspect of a person's life with the ability to conjure up the legal authority to execute that surveillance, and finally, removing any accountable judicial oversight, creates the opportunity for unprecedented influence over our system of government.
Ron WydenRead
If people keep buying poorly designed products, manufacturers and designers will think they are doing the right thing and continue as usual.
Donald A. NormanRead
With our technology, with objects, literally three people in a garage can blow away what 200 people at Microsoft can do. Literally can blow it away. Corporate America has a need that is so huge and can save them so much money, or make them so much money, or cost them so much money if they miss it, that they are going to fuel the object revolution.
Steve JobsRead
Why don't I talk about Big Data? Because I am focused on intelligent answers and not speeds and feeds. It doesn't matter if it is quick if it's the wrong answer.
Michael J. SaylorRead
If you look at iPod, iPod wasn't viewed as a success, but today it's viewed as an overnight success. The iPhone was the same way. People were writing about there's no physical keyboard. Obviously nobody would want it.
Tim CookRead

A little wisdom, now and then

Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.

Quote by Ted Nelson | QuoteProject