Stewart Brand: 'Once a new technology rolls over you, if you're not part of the steamroller, you're part of the road.'

Once a new technology rolls over you, if you're not part of the steamroller, you're part of the road.

At first glance, the quote by Stewart Brand, "Once a new technology rolls over you, if you're not part of the steamroller, you're part of the road," expresses the idea that failing to adapt to or embrace new technologies will leave you behind in their wake. In a straightforward manner, this quote serves as a reminder of the fast-paced and ever-evolving nature of our world, urging individuals to stay engaged and be open to the changes brought about by advancements. It emphasizes the importance of not only understanding these technologies but also actively participating in their development and implementation.However, delving deeper into the concept, we can unfold a rather intriguing and unexpected philosophical perspective that contemplates the relationship between technology and modern existence. It raises questions about our position in the grand scheme of things and whether we merely have a passive role in this unyielding march of progress.Consider the metaphorical representation of the steamroller as progress itself, symbolizing the relentless advancements that society experiences. By suggesting that those not part of the steamroller become part of the road, Brand indicates that individuals who resist or fail to adapt to new technologies become immovable obstacles that are slowly but inevitably overtaken by the passage of time.To truly comprehend the philosophical implications of this quote, one can draw parallels with the famous philosophical concept of existentialism. Existentialism asserts that human existence is defined by individual freedom and the responsibility to make meaning in an absurd, chaotic world. From this perspective, the quote by Brand takes on a deeper significance.In the context of existentialism, the steamroller represents the external forces that shape human existence, while the road represents the static and unchanging aspects of life. Brand's quote implies that choosing to resist or reject technological progress equates to embracing the certainty and stagnation of the road, a passive acceptance of the status quo devoid of growth and adaptation.Moreover, the quote prompts us to reflect on the essence of existence itself, as it raises the fundamental question of purpose. Are we merely bystanders in the face of inevitable change, or do we have agency in shaping our own lives and contributing to society's progress?Rather than viewing technology as an external force that inevitably overruns us, we can choose to see it as an invitation to actively participate in shaping the future. By being part of the steamroller, we can embrace the opportunities that arise, influencing the trajectory of society while simultaneously crafting our individual paths.In this light, the quote's importance lies not only in its pragmatic advice to adapt to technological advancements, but also in its unearthing of a deeper existential inquiry. It compels us to confront our position in a rapidly changing world and encourages us to seize the reins of progress, driving ourselves forward rather than passively resigning to the role of road.In conclusion, Stewart Brand's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of new technologies and their capacity to shape lives and society. By embracing this mantra, we can transition from being passive observers to active participants in the ongoing march of progress. It is through this proactive engagement with technology that we transcend mere existence and actively contribute to shaping not only our own lives but also the broader world we inhabit. So, let us strive to be part of the steamroller, shaping our own destiny and paving the way for a brighter and more innovative future.