Computers are over. All the effects that we can imagine coming from stand-alone computers have already happened. What we’re talking about now is not a computer revolution, it’s a communications revolution. And communication is, of course, the basis of culture itself. The idea that this world we are building is somehow diminishing communication is all wrong. In fact, it’s enhancing communication. It is allowing all kinds of new language.
Predictor: Kelly, Kevin
Prediction, in context:In a 1995 HarperÕs Magazine article, four experts on the impact of modern computing and telecommunications technology debate the effects of such technology on modern society. The article includes comments by Kevin Kelly, the executive editor of Wired magazine and the author of “Out of Control: The Rise of Neo-biological Civilization,” published by Addison-Wesley, an excerpt from which appeared in the May 1994 issue of Harper’s Magazine. Kelly says: ÒI have experienced soul-data through silicon. You might be surprised at the amount of soul-data that we’ll have in this new space. That’s why what is going on now is more exciting than what was going on 10 years ago. Look, computers are over. All the effects that we can imagine coming from stand-alone computers have already happened. What we’re talking about now is not a computer revolution, it’s a communications revolution. And communication is, of course, the basis of culture itself. The idea that this world we are building is somehow diminishing communication is all wrong. In fact, it’s enhancing communication. It is allowing all kinds of new language … You ask the question, “Where am I when I am involved in a book?” Well, here’s the real answer: you’re in cyberspace. That’s exactly where you are. You’re in the same place you are when you’re in a movie theater, you’re in the same place you are when you’re on the phone, you’re in the same place you are when you’re on-line.Ó
Biography:Kevin Kelly was the author of the book “Out of Control” and the first executive editor of the highly influential Wired magazine. (Author/Editor/Journalist.)
Date of prediction: January 1, 1995
Topic of prediction: Community/Culture
Subtopic: General
Name of publication: Harper's Magazine
Title, headline, chapter name: What Are We Doing On-line? A Debate on the Social Consequences of Online Communications
Quote Type: Direct quote
Page number or URL of document at time of study:
Pages 35 - 46
This data was logged into the Elon/Pew Predictions Database by: Guarino, Jennifer Anne