“I think it’s brought the world a lot closer together, and will continue to do that. There are downsides to everything; there are unintended consequences to everything. The most corrosive piece of technology that I’ve ever seen is called television – but then, again, television, at its best, is magnificent.”
- February 24, 1955 – October 5, 2011
- American
- Entrepreneur, businessman, industrial designer
- He brought to the world revolutionary products that combined technology and design at a high level, such as the personal computer Macintosh, iPhone, and iPad, and also revolutionized the music industry with the iPod, iTunes, and iTunes Store.
Quote
“I think it’s brought the world a lot closer together, and will continue to do that. There are downsides to everything; there are unintended consequences to everything. The most corrosive piece of technology that I’ve ever seen is called television – but then, again, television, at its best, is magnificent.”
Explanation
In this quote, Steve Jobs reflects on the dual nature of technology—its ability to both connect people and create unintended consequences. He acknowledges that technology has brought the world closer together, particularly through communication and the ability to share information instantly across the globe. However, Jobs also recognizes that every innovation carries downsides, and some technologies can have negative effects on society. In this case, he refers to television as the “most corrosive” technology he has seen, likely pointing to its ability to promote passive consumption and its potential to shape behavior in less constructive ways. Despite this, Jobs concedes that television, when used properly, can also be a magnificent tool for education, entertainment, and cultural exchange.
Jobs’ nuanced view of technology speaks to the responsibility that comes with creating and using it. He often emphasized that while technology can provide immense value, it can also be misused or lead to unintended social consequences. This theme of the benefits and risks of technology runs through much of Jobs’ thinking, especially as he created products that were intended to enhance people’s lives but also carried their own challenges and ethical considerations.
Today, this perspective is relevant as we navigate the rise of technologies like social media, artificial intelligence, and streaming platforms, which bring both incredible opportunities and challenges. Jobs’ quote reminds us that the way we use technology—whether for connection, learning, or creativity—is just as important as the technology itself, and that every innovation requires careful consideration of its impact on individuals and society.
