And that's the real reason the powerful fear open systems…
![“And that's the real reason the powerful fear open systems and networks. If anyone can set up a free voicecall to anyone else in the world, using the net, then we can all communicate with the same ease that's standard for the high and mighty. [...] And if any worker, anywhere, can communicate with…” quote by Cory Doctorow](https://sms4smile.com/q/img-quotes/936/cory-doctorow-1928_economics-society_and-that-s-the-real-reason-the-powerful_1727903.jpg)
““And that's the real reason the powerful fear open systems and networks. If anyone can set up a free voicecall to anyone else in the world, using the net, then we can all communicate with the same ease that's standard for the high and mighty. [...] And if any worker, anywhere, can communicate with any other worker, anywhere, for free, instantaneously, without the boss's permission, then, brother, look out, because the Coase cost of demanding better pay, better working conditions and a slice of the pie just got a *lot* cheaper. And the people who have the power aren't going to sit still and let a bunch of grunts take it away from them.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Open networks lower coordination costs, empowering workers to organize and demand better conditions, threatening entrenched power.
In simple terms: Free communication empowers workers.
Key Takeaway
Leverage open tools for collective action.
Themes
technology
labor
power dynamics
Mood
optimistic
urgent
Type
technological
inspirational
When to use this quote
- union organizing
- grassroots campaigns
- online collaboration
- policy advocacy
Key Concepts
Network effects
collective bargaining
digital activism
Questions to Reflect On
- What safeguards protect open communication?
- How to balance privacy and transparency?
A Different Perspective
Digital surveillance can undermine openness.