Network access to individual personal files makes it possible to reprocess and reedit collective memories which will guarantee the removal of all nonconforming or undesirable facts. In its most objectionable form, metatext could reduce personal privacy through unwarranted intrusions into personal files. The antidote against such abuse is to design collaborative systems using only distributed filing. Access privileges would require specific permission and possibly a one-time de-encryption key.
Predictor: Strassmann, Paul
Prediction, in context:In his 1990 book “The Business Value of Computers,” Paul Strassmann writes: ”One should not view the electronic message that reveals, in a prescribed way, assumptions, links and the structure of supporting nodes, as an unqualified gain. I can conceive of conditions where modifications of information can take place on a scale that does not approach even the wildest Orwellian visions. Network access to individual personal files makes it possible to reprocess and reedit collective memories which will guarantee the removal of all nonconforming or undesirable facts. In its most objectionable form, metatext could reduce personal privacy through unwarranted intrusions into personal files. The antidote against such abuse is to design collaborative systems using only distributed filing. Access privileges would require specific permission and possibly a one-time de-encryption key.”
Date of prediction: January 1, 1990
Topic of prediction: Communication
Subtopic: Security/Encryption
Name of publication: The Business Value of Computers
Title, headline, chapter name: Computer-Based Communication
Quote Type: Direct quote
Page number or URL of document at time of study:
Page 371
This data was logged into the Elon/Pew Predictions Database by: Anderson, Janna Quitney