We have met the Devil of Information Overload and his impish underlings, the computer virus, the busy signal, the dead link, and the PowerPoint presentation.
James GleickRead
Strangely enough, the linking of computers has taken place democratically, even anarchically. Its rules and habits are emerging in the open light, rather shall behind the closed doors of security agencies or corporate operations centers.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The interconnectedness of computers has developed openly and without centralized control, contrasting traditional methods of governance.
James Gleick's quote highlights how the evolution of computer networks has occurred in a democratic manner, characterized by openness and transparency, rather than being dictated solely by powerful organizations or government entities. This reflects a shift in how technology can foster collaboration and innovation free from authoritarian oversight, leading to a more communal and accessible digital landscape.
Themes
ComputersDemocracyOpennessTechnologyInnovation
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can inspire discussions during technology conferences about the importance of open-source software.
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Everything we care about lies somewhere in the middle, where pattern and randomness interlace.
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