NOTES ON CYBER-LUDDISM

TOLU H.

Knowledge Cultures, vol.2, no.3, pp.155-188, 2014 (Scopus)

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 2 Issue: 3
  • Publication Date: 2014
  • Journal Name: Knowledge Cultures
  • Journal Indexes: Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.155-188
  • Recep Tayyip Erdoğan University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

We [who are analyzing the process] know that computer world(s) exist,
that they touch and shake us up in many ways, but do we inquire how they came to
exist? Or, if they have a right to exist, what was their initial purpose? Or, what key
meanings do they have when they are essentially and satisfyingly pleasing us? On
the basis of this background, this paper conceptualizes Free Open Source Software
(FOSS) and Neo-Luddism, approaching them as aspects of New Social Movements.
The paper argues how and why advocates of FOSS and Neo-Luddism must be combined to raise Cyber-Luddites who claim that the human brain and body (mentally
& physically upgradeable) ought to appropriately evolve their evaluation of technology
(FOSS). The paper evokes the negative elements of computer world(s) derived
from Proprietary Close Source Software (PCSS) to control us and the positive,
Cyber-Luddism, element derived from FOSS to liberate us. This is followed with
concluding remarks for Soft/Hard-Cyber-Luddism in states and their education
systems.