Computer technology Quote by Neil Postman
““Attend any conference on telecommunications or computer technology, and you will be attending a celebration of innovative machinery that generates, stores, and distributes more information, more conveniently, at greater speed than ever before, To the question “What problem does the information solve?” the answer is usually “How to generate, store and distribute more information, more conveniently, at greater speeds than ever before.” This is the elevation of information to a metaphysical status: information as both the means and end of human creativity. In Technopoly, we are driven to fill our lives with the quest to “access” information. For what purpose or with what limitations, it is not for us to ask; and we are not accustomed to asking, since the problem is unprecedented. The world has never before been confronted with information glut and has hardly had time to reflect on its consequences (61).””
About This Quote
Source Book: Technopoly by Neil Postman, 1992
The quote critiques how society obsessively expands information technology without questioning its purpose, turning information into a quasi‑spiritual goal.
In simple terms: We chase more data without asking why.
Key Takeaway
Question the purpose of information growth.
Themes
technology
information overload
culture
critical thinking
Mood
reflective
critical
concerned
Type
analytical
philosophical
cautionary
When to use this quote
- education reform
- policy making
- personal digital habits
- media literacy
Key Concepts
media theory
philosophy of technology
human creativity
Questions to Reflect On
- What limits should we set on information creation?
- How can we ensure information serves human values?
A Different Perspective
It overlooks the benefits of information when used wisely.
