Addiction Quote by Adam Alter
““Tech isn’t morally good or bad until it’s wielded by the corporations that fashion it for mass consumption. Apps and platforms can be designed to promote rich social connections; or, like cigarettes, they can be designed to addict. Today, unfortunately, many tech developments do promote addiction.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Interview on technology and society, 2023
Technology itself is neutral; its moral impact depends on how corporations design and deploy it, which can foster connection or addiction.
In simple terms: Tech is neutral, corporate choices make it good or bad.
Design responsibly, prioritize wellbeing.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- product development
- policy making
- consumer education
- mental health initiatives
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can designers balance profit with user wellbeing?
- What regulations could curb addictive design?
Even well‑intentioned tech can be misused, leading to unintended harm.