freedom-of-information

The chapter critically examines historical and contemporary visions of humanity's future, emphasizing the role of human intellect and desire in achieving technological possibilities such as space colonies and rapid technological progress. It contrasts utopian and dystopian futures, highlighting common errors in predictions, particularly regarding political and technological change, and stresses the importance of freedom of information as a safeguard against totalitarianism. The chapter also warns against proposals for a static, globally managed society that would suppress freedom and dissent, arguing that political fragmentation will persist while technological advancement, especially in mobility, will continue apolitically through systems design.