The article discusses how increasing computing power may lead to diminishing returns on equity and control. It draws parallels with historical speed limits in vehicles and suggests that similar legal restrictions might be necessary in computing to ensure equitable access and distribution of technology.
In his 1973 essay 'Energy and Equity', Ivan Illich proposed that energy consumption beyond a certain threshold contributes to societal inequities. As energy use increases, it begins to benefit a small portion of the population, leading to a disparity in access and control over resources.
Illich's argument highlighted that below a specific level of energy use per capita, motors can contribute positively to social progress, while exceeding this level results in a negative impact on equity.
Illich presented a concrete example by analyzing the impact of vehicle speed on transportation equity. He argued that higher speeds create a sense of remoteness for the majority while concentrating benefits in the hands of a few, exacerbating social inequalities in mobility.
As demonstrated in the UK during the 1974 oil crisis, speed restrictions were introduced to manage fuel consumption and ensure more equitable access. This trend of limiting speed has continued to evolve.
The author suggests that the computing industry is at a nascent stage concerning legal and political restrictions on power consumption and processing capabilities. Current regulatory efforts primarily address data processing and accountability issues without tackling the fundamental power of technology itself.
A provocative proposition is made to contemplate maximum allowable specifications for hardware components like CPU clock frequency or storage capacity, similar to vehicle speed restrictions.
Drawing on historical parallels, the text raises questions about the consequences of unfettered growth in computing capabilities. If we retrogressed to the technology levels of the 80s and 90s, would today's pressing issues remain?
The article implies that without regulatory frameworks, advancements in computing may lead to a concentration of power among a few companies, furthering inequalities in access and control over technological benefits.
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The article discusses how increasing computing power may lead to diminishing returns on equity and control. It draws parallels with historical speed limits in vehicles and suggests that similar legal restrictions might be necessary in computing to ensure equitable access and distribution of technology.