Age Quote by Douglas Rushkoff
“Our enthusiasm for digital technology about which we have little understanding and over which we have little control leads us not toward greater agency, but toward less...We have surrendered the unfolding of a new technological age to a small elite who have seized the capability on offer. But while Renaissance kings maintained their monopoly over the printing press by force, today's elite is depending on little more than our own disinterest.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Talk at SXSW, 2015
Enthusiasm for tech without understanding gives power to a small elite, reducing public agency.
In simple terms: Tech hype lets elites control; we lose control.
Key Takeaway
Seek knowledge, demand transparency.
Themes
technology
power
agency
elitism
Mood
concerned
critical
urgent
Type
cautionary
analytical
When to use this quote
- public policy
- education
- consumer choices
- activism
- media consumption
Key Concepts
media theory
digital literacy
democracy
Questions to Reflect On
- How can individuals regain agency over technology?
- What responsibilities do creators have?
A Different Perspective
Elites can still manipulate even an informed public.
