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“When people say that the Internet is going to make us all geniuses, that was said about the telegraph. On the other hand, when they say the Internet is going to make us stupid, that also was said about the telegraph.” quote by James Gleick
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“When people say that the Internet is going to make us all geniuses, that was said about the telegraph. On the other hand, when they say the Internet is going to make us stupid, that also was said about the telegraph.”

James Gleick

About This Quote

Source Interview: Discussing Media Evolution, 2010

New technologies are often hyped for their impact, then later blamed for negative effects, mirroring past patterns.

In simple terms: Tech hype cycles repeat over time.

Key Takeaway

Critically assess tech promises.

Themes

innovation media societal impact

Mood

analytical thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • education policy
  • media literacy
  • technology adoption
  • public discourse

Key Concepts

technological determinism cultural adaptation information overload

Questions to Reflect On

  • What lessons can we learn from past tech hype?
  • How can we balance optimism and caution?
A Different Perspective

Not all tech changes are detrimental; context matters.

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