Against Utopia: Technology Won't Save Us

By Victor de la Fuente

The problem is not the technologies itself; well, some of them they are indeed the problem. But more insidious is the low criticism of them. There is no critical thinking, just jumping into the hype wave without almost any considerations.

This book estates what are these technologies as a starting point and offers an alternative perspective on how we can maximize our understanding and enjoyment of these new technologies through critical thinking.

The main technologies explored in the book are metaverses, driverless cars, AI, BTC, NFTs, cryptocurrencies, biogeneetics and Singularity. Each of them, has their own explanataion of the technology and the potential issues applying them.

At two levels, the essays are both conceptual and practical in terms of real-world tech applications and philosophical.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Victor de la Fuente
• Release date: Feb 20, 2022
• ISBN: 9798798556564

Victor de la Fuente

Victor de la Fuente is an eCommerce/eBusiness consultant. Also, collaborates with different business schools and provides lectures and teaching programs about eCommerce, Online Marketing and technology.As CEO of his own consultancy agency, provides solutions to different enterprises in the digital ecosystem.Born and raised in Barcelona, Spain, become a Minimalist once he started an around the world trip. As an athlete, mostly mastering long-distance running, also explored all the continents.Al long range of deep-changing experiences, gave them the objective of achieve deep work, and explore not only the physical but also the philosophical and conceptual world.His work, as writer and consultant,

Book preview

DRIVERLESS CARS

CRYPTOCURRENCIES AND NFTS

METAVERSE

BIOGENETICS

SINGULARITY

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

OTHER BOOKS BY THE AUTHOR

Declaration of intentions: I’m not a Luddite

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I understand your perspective as a technology enthusiast who has become disillusioned with the tech world. It is important to have honest discussions about technology without immediately dismissing those who do not use computers or embrace cutting-edge technologies as anti-progress. This book aims to provide an honest and thoughtful examination of various technologies, including driverless cars, AI, metaverses, cryptocurrencies, and more.

While not all technologies are inherently problematic, there is a deeper concern regarding the lack of critical analysis and scrutiny surrounding them. Many people simply jump on the bandwagon of hype without considering the potential drawbacks or implications of these technologies. This uncritical acceptance can be detrimental to society as a whole.

The purpose of this book is to serve as a starting point for readers to gain a comprehensive understanding of these technologies and to encourage critical thinking. It explores the essence of these technologies, their potential benefits, and the challenges they may pose. By engaging in thoughtful analysis and examination, we can navigate the evolving technological landscape more effectively and make informed decisions about our engagement with these innovations.

A futurist, by definition, assumes the role of a forecaster, predicting the trajectory of future developments based on the continuation of present trends. However, an inherent paradox emerges when contemplating this approach: if the present state of affairs is not utopian, characterized by imperfections, challenges, and societal complexities, then why should the projection of the future be confined to a utopian framework? The assumption that the future will merely be an amplification or extension of the present, albeit with heightened technological advancements, begs a critical examination because disregards the potential for transformative shifts, paradigm changes, or societal awakenings. In any case, unforeseen possibilities and transformative endeavors and technologies that have the potential to reshape the fabric of society are created in already stablished system which perpetuates the same incentives and status quo.

Futurists, those who actively engage in envisioning and shaping the trajectory of the future, are fundamentally concerned with the act of creation rather than a passive observation or study of forthcoming events. The distinction lies in their proactive approach, as futurists are not mere bystanders in the unfolding narrative of time; rather, they are architects of possibilities, actively influencing the direction society takes. This notion encapsulates a profound shift from traditional perspectives that view the future as an entity to be predicted or anticipated. Instead, it emphasizes the agency of individuals and collective efforts in constructing the future through intentional actions, innovations, and strategic decision-making.

In contemplating the idea that the way we prepare for the future shapes it, we encounter a paradoxical dance between anticipation and causation. The paradox stems from the interplay between our present actions, informed by our understanding of future possibilities, and the subsequent manifestation of those actions in shaping the very future we sought to anticipate. It implies a reciprocal relationship between our present preparations and the unfolding of events, challenging linear notions of time where the future is predetermined by the present. The preparation for the future becomes a dynamic and iterative process, where our expectations, strategies, and endeavors not only respond to perceived future scenarios but actively participate in the co-creation of those scenarios.

This paradoxical nature underscores the complexity of our relationship with time and the future. It urges us to reconsider the linear cause-and-effect framework, inviting a more nuanced understanding of the interconnectivity between our present choices and the emergent future. As we grapple with this paradox, the role of futurists becomes pivotal; their ability to navigate uncertainties, foresee potential trajectories, and, most importantly, actively contribute to shaping the future positions them as catalysts for meaningful change. In essence, the paradox serves as a reminder of the dynamic interplay between human agency and the unfolding tapestry of time, emphasizing that our actions today reverberate far beyond the present moment, intricately weaving the fabric of the future we collectively imagine and create.

Rather than being defensive, the book seeks to foster open and honest discussions about technology. It offers an alternative perspective that encourages readers to question, challenge, and critically evaluate the impact and implications of these technologies. By promoting critical thinking, the goal is to maximize our understanding and enjoyment of these new technologies while being aware of their potential consequences.

In essence, this book aims to bridge the gap between blind enthusiasm and unfounded skepticism by promoting informed and thoughtful engagement with technology. It invites readers to embark on a journey of exploration, reflection, and critical thinking, empowering them to navigate the complexities of the modern tech world with a well-rounded perspective.

At two levels, the essays are both conceptual and practical in terms of real-world tech applications and philosophical.

Furthermore, I often find myself driven by a desire to delve deeper into various concepts, examining their profound implications on society as a whole. Rather than simply succumbing to fleeting buzzwords and indulging in transient hype, my inclination is to engage in thoughtful exploration, aiming to foster a more comprehensive understanding of the subject matter, while eschewing superficial enthusiasm that serves no purpose beyond generating temporary excitement.

I strongly encourage you to do further research into the topics by yourself. And not only research, but also the many implications that each technology could have in our daily lives. This book is meant to be short, but right to the point.

The disparity between the abundance of self-proclaimed gurus who relentlessly chase the hype for personal gain and their lack of understanding, in contrast to the scarcity of true professionals who diligently analyze the consequences of each emerging trend, is strikingly imbalanced. This prevailing scenario is a testament to the prevalence of opportunism and ignorance within certain circles, where individuals prioritize short-term gains and superficial attention over a genuine commitment to evaluating the far-reaching impacts of these trends. In stark contrast, a limited number of dedicated professionals diligently dedicate their time and expertise to thoroughly assessing the ramifications of each trend, recognizing the imperative need for a discerning and well-informed approach.

I encourage to be in the second group.

Often, we immerse ourselves in the fascination of innovations, dazzled by the glitter of the next big idea. But what happens when the tide of technology unleashes its fury on the shores of our society? Here, in this tale of technological dystopia, we will not only reflect on the trends that could define our destiny, but also on the subtle dance between acceptance and resistance that lies at the very heart of our humanity.

The predicament we face in our modern era lies in the rapid acceleration fueled by technology. It's undeniable that technological advancements have propelled us into an age of unprecedented speed and efficiency. However, this breakneck pace has created a cultural paradox, particularly for those seeking a slower, more deliberate way of life. In a world where the ethos is to embrace the latest and fastest, individuals aspiring for a more measured existence can find themselves out of sync with the prevailing cultural currents.

Living a slower life,