Theodor Holm Nelson in 1974 published a book called Computer Lib/Dream Machines (Tempus). He believed that everyone should know about the computer and mentioned how it would change their way of living forever. It is true. Our lives have changed since computer become more available. Most, if not all, household own at least one computer and use it to improve their lives one way or another. College students, for example, write their papers using computers rather than pens and papers, because computers save them time as well as spell check their writings. It would seem that Nelson vision was right but I beg to differ. A little research has brought me two illustrations of what a computer was like in 1974. Below video demonstrates the most advance computer created by Xerox company in 1974.
Another video below shows a man ordering pizza using a computer (by phone).
As we can see, the computer in 1974 seemed clunky, difficult, technical and expensive. It would have taken more time and effort doing something with computer than without. I see no point for the book to have come out until early 90s where computers were faster and less technical (non-geek friendly?). All in all, I think he was not wrong, but was a bit too advance for his time for his work to be fully appreciated.
You have got interesting videos posted in this blog entry. It helps me visualize what kind of computers were used in the 70's, and how excited those researchers were to have advanced technology that was apparently going to change their (our?) lives forever. You have said that there was no point for Nelson's book to have come out until the 90's, but I believe his urge to make computers known to the public and acquire their interests was a necessary attempt to advance the technology even furter. We may not have followed up on taking 4.5 minutes to order pizza using computers as shown in the video clip, but there are many technologies used as substitutes for mannual labor today. As clunky as it may seem, it was a necessary and essential process for computers and technologies to have come this far.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Maki. If it hadn't been for people like Nelson who advocated the idea that computers be accessible to everyone, then technology probably would not have advanced to where it is today. His book encouraged people to take a hand's on approach to computers and not to fear them based on how they looked or how they functioned, but to be interested in the limitless possibilities of this technology.
ReplyDeleteI completely agree with your last statement. Nelson was correct in his beliefs about computers and technology and how they would advance our society, however his mind - set was a bit ahead of itself. At the same time, isn't that what innovation s about? I agree with Maki and Calt. i feel like if he didn't put his thoughts out there someone else would have. Sure, the computer seemed to be too much of a hassle at first. i would just much rather them deal with thee issues then, in the 70's, rather than now, seeing that I use a computer almost everyday of my life.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Maki as well. I think Nelson's conceptions of how computers could potentially benefit society isn't necessarily tainted by the execution of the idea. It sometimes takes years and decades for ideas and philosophies to develop into meaningful realities, and we should not discard or delay ideas just because they may not become beneficial to society for some time. You found great videos as well!
ReplyDeleteThank you for all your comments, I understand your points, and I will keep those points in mind the next time I write :)
ReplyDeleteVisionary texts sometimes take time to play out. Visualizing a use and function for something like capturing shadows on film or organizing data is often thankless. Remember how Engelbart showed his graph of staffing and funding? He was often all alone with his vision and ideas!
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