Clive James: 'It is only when they go wrong that machines remind you how powerful they are.'

It is only when they go wrong that machines remind you how powerful they are.

In his thought-provoking quote, Clive James sheds light on the true power of machines, emphasizing that it is often when they malfunction or fail that we are reminded of their immense capabilities. At first glance, this statement seems straightforward, highlighting the potential dangers or inconveniences associated with machines. However, when we dive deeper into its meaning, we can uncover a philosophical concept that offers a fresh perspective on our relationship with technology.Machines have become an integral part of our daily lives, seamlessly intertwining with our routines, making tasks more convenient, and even enhancing our abilities. We have come to rely heavily on these mechanical allies, sometimes oblivious to the extent of their power. It is in the unanticipated moments when they falter, glitch, break down, or exhibit unexpected behavior that we are jolted into awareness of the intricate mechanisms and immense power that lies within them.Consider the example of a car. On a usual day, we might hop into our vehicle without a second thought, trusting its engine to purr reliably as we cruise through traffic. But when the engine fails to start, a flat tire ensues, or an error message flashes on the dashboard, we are forced to confront the mechanical intricacies underlying our transportation companion. Suddenly, the dreamlike state of automation is shattered, and we are reminded of the immense power that turned our otherwise mundane act of commuting into a technological marvel.This phenomenon extends beyond mere inconvenience; it also serves as a metaphor for our relationship with the broader realm of technology. Machines are often seen as extensions of our own abilities, amplifying our strengths and enabling us to overcome limitations. Yet, it is precisely in those moments of failure that we are confronted with the realization that these machines possess an inherent power that surpasses our own.In light of this understanding, we can draw a parallel to the philosophy of technological sublime, a concept that evokes awe and terror in the face of technological power. Coined by philosopher Timothy Lenoir, the technological sublime describes the mixture of fascination and fear that arises when we encounter technologies or machines that exceed our comprehension and control. It is in those moments when machines go awry, revealing their formidable might, that the technological sublime becomes most evident.When machines fail, it often feels as if we have stumbled upon a hidden realm of power that was lurking beneath the surface, just waiting for the opportune moment to manifest itself. Suddenly, we realize that the line between us and the machine is not as distinct as we had assumed. We are reminded that we are, in a sense, entangled in a symbiotic relationship with these creations. They reflect our ingenuity, but also expose our vulnerability in the face of their superior strength.Clive James' quote, therefore, serves as a gentle reminder to acknowledge and respect the immense power that machines possess. It encourages us to recognize that, while our inventions offer us incredible convenience and efficiency, they also possess a hidden force that should not be underestimated. Through their failures and malfunctions, machines reveal their true capacity and, in turn, remind us of our place in this ever-evolving technological landscape.In conclusion, Clive James aptly captures the essence of machines' power in his statement, emphasizing their immense capabilities when they go wrong. However, when we delve deeper into the meaning of this quote, we can also explore the concept of the technological sublime, which highlights our awe and fear in the face of machines' power. By acknowledging and respecting their potency, we can cultivate a balanced and appreciative relationship with the machines that have become an integral part of our existence.