Consequences
Every breakthrough technology has its dark side. Thomas Midgley invented leaded fuel and CFCs, which brought improvements in fuel efficiency and refrigeration, but ended up causing lead poisoning and the ozone hole. Biofuels offer a source of low carbon energy but compete for land with agriculture. Renewables and batteries promise an end to climate-warming fossil fuels but are linked to conflict minerals. Social media gives us voice but is used to spread fake news and undermine democracy. We shouldn’t reject these technologies, but we must be vigilant about unintended consequences – and work hard to address them.
— Wayne Visser
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From Purpose Inspired: Reflections on Conscious Living, Volume 3. Buy on Lulu ↗