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About this quote

What does it mean?
Sterling critiques Brin's belief that technology dictates inevitable progress, rejecting deterministic optimism.
In plain terms
Technology does not force us to follow a single path.
What can you take from it?
Don't assume tech trends are unavoidable.

Where it applies

  • tech debates
  • policy making
  • future planning

Putting it to work

  • question tech inevitability
  • assess social impact
  • plan alternatives

Questions to consider

  • Can we stop a technology once it starts?
  • Who decides how tech is used?

Another view

Some tech trends do gain unstoppable momentum regardless of opinion.

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