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Business Quote by Ivan Illich

“The telephone lets anybody say what he wants to the person of his choice; he can conduct business, express love, or pick a quarrel. It is impossible for bureaucrats to define what people say to each other on the phone, even though they can interfere with - or protect - the privacy of their exchange.” quote by Ivan Illich
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“The telephone lets anybody say what he wants to the person of his choice; he can conduct business, express love, or pick a quarrel. It is impossible for bureaucrats to define what people say to each other on the phone, even though they can interfere with - or protect - the privacy of their exchange.”

Ivan Illich

About This Quote

Source Book: Deschooling Society by Ivan Illich, 1971

The telephone empowers individuals to communicate freely, making it hard for authorities to control personal conversations.

In simple terms: Phones let people talk freely, beyond bureaucratic control.

Key Takeaway

Use communication responsibly and protect privacy.

Themes

communication freedom privacy authority technology

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical observational

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • business negotiations
  • activism
  • privacy advocacy

Key Concepts

media theory social control digital rights

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does technology balance freedom and privacy?
  • What responsibilities come with unrestricted communication?
A Different Perspective

Regulation may still limit certain communications despite technical freedom.

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