Tech Critics' Binary Bane: A Rhetoric of Simplicity and Binary Thinking

In a year marked by growing animosity towards digital technology, tech critics have never been better equipped to voice their discontent. Powered by research papers, bestsellers, and statistics, these critics now wield an impressive array of arguments against the very forces they claim are driving societal problems.

However, one philosopher's critique stands out for its profound implications: Jason Kehe. In a recent article, Kehe expressed frustration with the dominant "binary" thinking among technology critics, which implies that digital computation holds the answers to life's fundamental questions. Kehe challenges this notion by citing two primary issues: the simplistic nature of binary thinking and its tendency to oversimplify complex systems.

According to Kehe, binary digits do not dictate the entirety of their individuality and higher-level expression. Genes do not define the limits of life, and quantum-mechanical phenomena have no bearing on our physical actions. Instead, complex systems often exhibit unexpected behavior when simplified, as seen in algorithms like flocking patterns.

Furthermore, Kehe disputes the notion that digital technology represents a logical culmination of human thought processes. Computing has always been an analog process, even for most of its history, and an ongoing trend suggests it will continue to evolve without completely discarding its digital aspects. This contradicts the assumption that all societal problems can be solved through technological advancements.

The analogy posed by Kehe reminds us that technology is merely a tool created by humans, not a driver of human destiny. In essence, humanity invents technology, and it should not shape our identity in binary terms.

Kehe's critique thus raises crucial questions: are we living in a simulated reality? Are digital machines truly at the heart of societal problems? The answer to these mysteries remains unclear, but one thing is certain – the debate surrounding technology and its role in society will only continue to intensify.