“Of all the inventions of humans, the computer is going to rank near or at the top as history unfolds and we look back. It is the most awesome tool that we have ever invented. I feel incredibly lucky to be at exactly the right place in Silicon Valley, at exactly the right time, historically, where this invention has taken form.”
- 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
“Of all the inventions of humans, the computer is going to rank near or at the top as history unfolds and we look back. It is the most awesome tool that we have ever invented. I feel incredibly lucky to be at exactly the right place in Silicon Valley, at exactly the right time, historically, where this invention has taken form.”
Explanation
In this quote, Steve Jobs reflects on the transformative power of the computer, acknowledging its immense impact as one of the most significant human inventions. Jobs emphasizes that, as history progresses, the computer will likely be viewed as a defining invention that has shaped the modern world in unprecedented ways. He expresses a deep sense of gratitude and privilege for being in Silicon Valley during a pivotal time in the development of personal computing, where he was able to witness and contribute to the growth of this technology.
Jobs’ perspective highlights his belief that computers are not just tools for business or personal use, but rather catalysts for change, enabling people to achieve things that were once unimaginable. The emergence of personal computers in the 1970s and 1980s, particularly with the Apple II and later the Macintosh, marked the beginning of a revolution in how people interacted with technology. Jobs recognized that he was part of something much larger than just building machines; he was helping to usher in an era of digital empowerment.
Today, the impact of computers and computing technology is more evident than ever, with modern devices like smartphones, tablets, and cloud computing continuing to shape every aspect of daily life. Jobs’ words remind us of the profound influence that computing has had on human society and underscore the importance of innovation in technology. He believed that the computer would continue to be one of the most essential tools in shaping the future, a vision that remains true as we witness its ever-expanding role in our lives.