The prediction, in brief:

Computers and community networks will change the way we do business, govern, and relate to one another. I support the idea that the computer systems we design are meant to facilitate and enhance the business or social relations we have with other people, not to supplant them.

Predictor: Cisler, Steve

Prediction, in context:

In a report on community networks written in 1993 and published on the Web site of Computer Professionals for Social Responsibility, Steve Cisler writes:”Computers and community networks will change the way we do business, govern, and relate to one another. I support the idea that the computer systems we design are meant to facilitate and enhance the business or social relations we have with other people, not to supplant them. Keeping in mind that electronic networks can empower many on the fringes of our community because of age, handicap, physical appearance, or race, I recommend that any community network that is being designed or already exists, not only include face-to-face meetings of the board and technical staff but also regular meetings or social events to involve the users and the volunteers and information providers. A community computing network must be integrated into the real world community that it serves. This would hold true whether you are running a small electronic bulletin board system, a large Free-Net, or a Mirror World in the year 2000.”

Biography:

Steve Cisler was the chief library scientist at the Apple Corporate Library and was active in the early Internet community as a writer/activist. (Research Scientist/Illuminator.)

Date of prediction: January 1, 1991

Topic of prediction: Community/Culture

Subtopic: Relationships

Name of publication: Computer Professionals for Social Responsibility Web site

Title, headline, chapter name: Community Computer Networks: Building Electronic Greenbelts

Quote Type: Direct quote

Page number or URL of document at time of study:
www.cpsr.org/program/community-nets/building_electronic_greenbelts.html

This data was logged into the Elon/Pew Predictions Database by: Anderson, Janna Quitney