Armed forces Quote by Neil Postman
““There can be no disputing that the computer has increased the power of large-scale organizations like the armed forces, or airline companies or banks or tax-collecting agencies. And it is equally clear that the computer is now indispensable to high-level researchers in physics and other natural sciences. But to what extent has computer technology been an advantage to the masses of people? To steelworkers, vegetable-store owners, teachers, garage mechanics, musicians, bricklayers, dentists, and most of the rest into whose lives the computer now intrudes? Their private matters have been made more accessible to powerful institutions. They are more easily tracked and controlled; are subjected to more examinations; are increasingly mystified by the decisions made about them; are often reduced to mere numerical objects. They are inundated by junk mail. They are easy targets for advertising agencies and political organizations. The schools teach their children to operate computerized systems instead of teaching things that are more valuable to children.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Technopoly: The Surrender of Culture to Technology, 1992
The quote argues that while computers empower large institutions, they also erode individual autonomy and privacy for ordinary people, turning them into data points and targets.
In simple terms: Computers help big groups but can harm everyday people’s freedom.
Key Takeaway
Beware how tech shapes power and privacy.
Themes
technology
power
privacy
education
society
Mood
critical
concerned
Type
analytical
cautionary
When to use this quote
- working class
- small business owners
- students
- healthcare workers
- citizens
Key Concepts
surveillance
data commodification
digital divide
institutional control
Questions to Reflect On
- How does technology affect your personal freedom?
- What can be done to protect privacy?
A Different Perspective
The benefits to masses are uneven and often outweighed by control and manipulation.
