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1. Solutionism Oversimplifies Complex Problems

Recasting all complex social situations either as neatly defined problems with definite, computable solutions or as transparent and self-evident processes that can be easily optimized—if only the right algorithms are in place!—this quest is likely to have unexpected consequences that could eventually cause more damage than the problems they seek to address.

Defining Solutionism. Solutionism is the belief that technology can solve all problems, often oversimplifying complex social issues into easily computable puzzles. This approach often overlooks the nuances and unintended consequences of technological interventions, leading to potentially harmful outcomes. It presumes rather than investigates problems, reaching for answers before fully understanding the questions.

Examples of Solutionism. The book provides several examples of solutionism in action, such as:

• BinCam: A project that uses cameras to monitor household waste, aiming to gamify recycling.
• Smart mirrors: Mirrors that track pulse rates and nudge users to lose weight based on social network comparisons.
• Smart teapots: Teapots that glow green or red based on real-time electricity usage, encouraging responsible energy consumption.

The Problem with Solutionism. While these projects are well-intentioned, they often fail to consider the ethical implications, potential for unintended consequences, and the complex human practices involved. By focusing solely on efficiency and optimization, solutionism can lead to suboptimal behavior globally, as well as a loss of individual freedom and moral reasoning.

2. Internet-Centrism Blinds Us to Nuance

Whenever you hear someone tell you, “This is not how the Internet works”—as technology bloggers are wont to inform everyone who cares to read their scribblings—you should know that your interlocutor believes your views to be reactionary and antimodern.

Defining Internet-Centrism. Internet-centrism is the belief that the internet is a unique and revolutionary force that requires a complete overhaul of existing institutions and practices. This perspective often leads to a dismissal of historical context, non-digital solutions, and critical thinking. It assumes that everything "the Internet" touches automatically gets better, smarter, and prettier.

Manifestations of Internet-Centrism. The book identifies several ways in which Internet-centrism manifests itself:

• Dismissing non-geeks from discussions by claiming that they don't understand "how the Internet works."
• Assuming that the internet has an inherent nature, logic, and teleology that must be followed.
• Using the internet as a causal explanation for various social and political phenomena, often without empirical evidence.

The Problem with Internet-Centrism. By overemphasizing the transformative power of the internet, Internet-centrism can blind us to the complexities of real-world problems and limit our ability to imagine alternative solutions. It also leads to a lack of historical perspective and a tendency to dismiss non-digital approaches.

3. Transparency Can Be a Double-Edged Sword

Sunlight might be the best disinfectant, but disinfectants, alas, are of little use to sunburn victims.

The Allure of Transparency. Transparency is often seen as an unquestionable good, leading to more accountability, efficiency, and trust in institutions. However, the book argues that transparency can also have unintended consequences, such as:

• Suppression of political causes: Public disclosure of donor information can lead to harassment and intimidation.
• Increased cynicism: Overexposure to political information can lead to distrust and disengagement.
• Erosion of privacy: Personal information can be used for purposes other than intended, leading to discrimination and profiling.

The Need for Nuance. The book emphasizes the importance of considering the context and potential consequences of transparency initiatives. Instead of blindly pursuing openness, we need to carefully weigh the benefits and risks and consider alternative approaches.

Examples of Transparency Gone Wrong:

• Eightmaps.com: A website that mapped donors to Proposition 8, leading to harassment and intimidation.
• Campaign finance disclosure laws: While intended to promote accountability, these laws can also expose donors to unwanted scrutiny.

4. Fixing Politics Requires More Than Technology

What we’re offering is not a program, but an operating system.

The Limits of Technology. The book argues that technology alone cannot fix the problems of politics. While digital tools can facilitate communication, organization, and participation, they cannot address the underlying issues of power, ideology, and human nature.

The Case of the Pirate Party. The Pirate Party, with its emphasis on online tools and direct democracy, serves as a cautionary tale. Despite its technological sophistication, the party has struggled to gain mainstream support and develop coherent policy positions.

The Importance of Traditional Politics. The book emphasizes the importance of traditional political skills, such as leadership, negotiation, and compromise. Technology can be a valuable tool, but it cannot replace the need for human judgment and political expertise.

5. Algorithms Are Not Neutral Gatekeepers

Yes, the internet is democratizing in that sense that the cheap equipment is democratizing. But just because a football is cheap and anyone can kick one around, it doesn’t mean that everybody is Ronaldo.

The Myth of Algorithmic Neutrality. Algorithms are often presented as objective and unbiased, providing a fair and efficient way to filter information and make decisions. However, the book argues that algorithms are created by humans and reflect their biases, values, and assumptions.

Examples of Algorithmic Bias:

• Google Autocomplete: Can perpetuate stereotypes and spread misinformation.
• Facebook's EdgeRank: Determines which content users see, potentially creating filter bubbles.
• Predictive policing software: Can reinforce existing patterns of racial profiling.

The Need for Transparency and Accountability. The book emphasizes the importance of scrutinizing algorithms and holding their creators accountable for their impact. We need to ensure that algorithms are not used to discriminate, manipulate, or suppress dissenting voices.

6. The Allure and Perils of Self-Tracking

Neither information nor a drug fix ever gives any happiness when you have it, but will make you miserable when you don’t.

The Rise of the Quantified Self. Self-tracking, or the practice of collecting and analyzing data about one's own life, has become increasingly popular in recent years. Proponents claim that self-tracking can lead to greater self-awareness, improved decision-making, and better health.

The Dark Side of Self-Tracking. The book argues that self-tracking can also have negative consequences, such as:

• Increased anxiety: Obsessive monitoring can lead to stress and anxiety about meeting certain metrics.
• Loss of spontaneity: Self-tracking can make life feel overly managed and controlled.
• Erosion of privacy: Personal data can be used for purposes other than intended, leading to discrimination and manipulation.

The Need for Balance. The book emphasizes the importance of finding a balance between self-awareness and self-obsession. While self-tracking can be a valuable tool, it should not come at the expense of our well-being, autonomy, and privacy.

7. The Importance of Imperfection and Friction

Imperfection, ambiguity, opacity, disorder, and the opportunity to err, to sin, to do the wrong thing: all of these are constitutive of human freedom, and any concentrated attempt to root them out will root out that freedom as well.

The Solutionist's War on Imperfection. Solutionism seeks to eliminate imperfection, ambiguity, and disorder from all aspects of life. However, the book argues that these qualities are essential for human freedom, creativity, and moral reasoning.

The Virtues of Friction. Friction, or the resistance to change, can be a valuable force in society. It can slow down the adoption of harmful technologies, prevent rash decisions, and protect important values.

The Need for Balance. The book emphasizes the importance of finding a balance between efficiency and imperfection. While efficiency can be valuable, it should not come at the expense of our freedom, creativity, and moral compass.

8. The Dangers of a World Without Dissent

The world opposed is the world of darkness, utterly full of evil, of devouring fire, falsehood and deceit, a world of turbulence, of darkness, of death, a world in which the good things perish and plans come to naught.

The Utopian Vision. Solutionism often presents a utopian vision of a world without conflict, dissent, or disagreement. However, the book argues that such a world would be sterile, oppressive, and ultimately unsustainable.

The Importance of Dissent. Dissent is essential for a healthy democracy. It allows us to challenge existing power structures, question dominant narratives, and explore alternative perspectives.

The Threat of Control. The book warns against the dangers of creating a perfectly controlled social environment, where dissent is not just impossible but unthinkable. Such an environment would stifle creativity, innovation, and moral progress.

9. The Need for a Secularized Approach to Technology

The moral law is in our hearts, but it is also in our apparatuses.

Beyond Technological Determinism. The book calls for a "secularized" approach to technology, one that recognizes that technology is not a neutral force but a product of human choices, values, and interests. This approach requires us to move beyond technological determinism, the belief that technology shapes society in a predetermined way.

The Importance of Human Agency. The book emphasizes the importance of human agency in shaping the future of technology. We need to take responsibility for the technologies we create and ensure that they serve our values and goals.

A Call for Critical Thinking. The book encourages readers to think critically about technology and to resist the seductive promises of solutionism and Internet-centrism. By questioning the assumptions, biases, and unintended consequences of technology, we can create a more just, equitable, and humane world.

Last updated: April 7, 2025