Jack Ma: 'I'm not a tech guy. I'm looking at the technology with the eyes of my customers, normal people's eyes.'

I'm not a tech guy. I'm looking at the technology with the eyes of my customers, normal people's eyes.

In a straightforward interpretation, Jack Ma's quote, "I'm not a tech guy. I'm looking at the technology with the eyes of my customers, normal people's eyes," implies that he approaches technology from the perspective of an everyday person instead of a technical expert. This quote emphasizes the significance of understanding and meeting the needs of the average consumer, rather than solely focusing on the complexities of the technology itself. It highlights the importance of empathy and the ability to view things from the audience's standpoint.However, let's explore an unexpected philosophical concept related to this quote to add an intriguing twist to the article. Suppose we introduce the concept of "phenomenology," a branch of philosophy that examines how individuals perceive and experience the world around them. Phenomenology emphasizes the subjective nature of human experiences and emphasizes the importance of understanding them in order to gain insight into reality. By drawing parallels between phenomenology and Jack Ma's words, we can uncover fascinating insights.When applying phenomenology to the quote by Jack Ma, we can interpret his statement not merely as understanding customers' needs but also as perceiving the essence of technology through their eyes. He is emphasizing the importance of empathetically experiencing and comprehending the impact technology has on people's lives, beyond its technical aspects. In essence, he recognizes that the true value of technology lies in how it enhances, empowers, and connects individuals, rather than merely its functional capabilities.By adopting the phenomenological lens, we can draw comparisons between Ma's approach and the concept of "intentional consciousness" within phenomenology. Just as intentional consciousness refers to the directedness of our thoughts towards objects, Jack Ma implies that he consciously directs his attention towards the needs, desires, and experiences of customers. He aims to create technology that aligns with their expectations, challenges, and aspirations, rather than approaching it with a detached and objective mindset.Moreover, when considering phenomenology, we can also explore the notion of "lifeworld" – the everyday, lived experiences of individuals – and its relevance to Ma's quote. Ma recognizes the significance of the lifeworld in shaping consumers' interactions with technology. He acknowledges that technology should seamlessly integrate into people's lives, augmenting their experiences and making meaningful contributions to their everyday existence. By adopting the perspective of "normal people," he ensures that the technology created resonates with their lifeworld, creating a more profound and holistic impact.Jack Ma's quote, therefore, becomes more than just a statement about understanding customers' needs. It encompasses a philosophical approach deeply rooted in phenomenology, urging us to view technology and its implications through empathetic, intentional consciousness. Ma's perspective emphasizes the importance of technology's relation to the lifeworld and how it can enrich, transform, and connect individuals in the most genuine manner.In conclusion, Jack Ma's quote takes on a more profound meaning when interpreted through a phenomenological lens. It reminds us that technology should not be viewed solely from a technical perspective but with an empathetic and person-centric mindset. By understanding and embracing the lifeworld of "normal people," we can create technology that genuinely enhances their lives, resonates with their experiences, and fulfills their desires. Jack Ma's words serve as a powerful reminder for all tech enthusiasts and innovators to look beyond the technical complexities and embrace the human element in our pursuit of technological advancements.