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Computer Quote by Richard Stallman

“For personal reasons, I do not browse the web from my computer. (I also have not net connection much of the time.) To look at page I send mail to a demon which runs wget and mails the page back to me. It is very efficient use of my time, but it is slow in real time.” quote by Richard Stallman
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“For personal reasons, I do not browse the web from my computer. (I also have not net connection much of the time.) To look at page I send mail to a demon which runs wget and mails the page back to me. It is very efficient use of my time, but it is slow in real time.”

Richard Stallman

About This Quote

Source Interview: GNU/Linux Advocacy Talk, 1995

Describes an alternative method of retrieving web content via email, prioritizing privacy and efficiency over real‑time browsing.

In simple terms: Uses email to fetch pages, saving bandwidth and protecting privacy.

Key Takeaway

Consider non‑traditional tools for secure information access.

Themes

technology privacy efficiency

Mood

pragmatic analytical

Type

technical practical

When to use this quote

  • remote work
  • low‑bandwidth environments
  • privacy‑focused research
  • digital activism

Key Concepts

open source communication protocols automation

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is the trade‑off between speed and privacy worthwhile?
  • How can such tools be made more user‑friendly?
A Different Perspective

Method is slower and requires technical setup, limiting casual use.

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