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Now our world is at the present time firmly in the grip of…

“Now our world is at the present time firmly in the grip of a mechanical monster, whose head - if you want to call it that - is the World Engineer's Complex. That monster is opposed to us and can keep all too good a tab on us through every purchase we make with our credit numbers, every time we use…” quote by Gordon R. Dickson
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“Now our world is at the present time firmly in the grip of a mechanical monster, whose head - if you want to call it that - is the World Engineer's Complex. That monster is opposed to us and can keep all too good a tab on us through every purchase we make with our credit numbers, every time we use the public transportation or eat a meal or rent a place to live.”

Gordon R. Dickson

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

A pervasive technological system monitors daily life through transactions, creating a controlling force that threatens personal freedom.

In simple terms: Technology tracks us through everyday actions.

Key Takeaway

Guard privacy against pervasive surveillance.

Themes

technology surveillance control

Mood

concerned critical

Type

philosophical warning

When to use this quote

  • online shopping
  • public transport
  • housing rentals
  • financial services

Key Concepts

digital privacy consumer data automation social engineering

Questions to Reflect On

  • How much privacy are you willing to trade for convenience?
  • What can individuals do to limit data collection?
A Different Perspective

Resistance may be limited by convenience.

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