“This revolution, the information revolution, is a revolution of free energy as well, but of another kind: free intellectual energy. It’s very crude today, yet our Macintosh computer takes less power than a 100-watt bulb to run it and it can save you hours a day. What will it be able to do ten or 20 years from now, or 50 years from now?”
- 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
“This revolution, the information revolution, is a revolution of free energy as well, but of another kind: free intellectual energy. It’s very crude today, yet our Macintosh computer takes less power than a 100-watt bulb to run it and it can save you hours a day. What will it be able to do ten or 20 years from now, or 50 years from now?”
Explanation
In this quote, Steve Jobs discusses the information revolution not only in terms of technological advancement but also in relation to free intellectual energy. He contrasts traditional forms of energy with the power of ideas and knowledge, suggesting that technology, particularly the Macintosh, serves as a tool for amplifying human intellect. Jobs recognizes that while current technology might still be in its early stages, it has already begun to enhance productivity and efficiency. He emphasizes that a computer can perform tasks in a fraction of the time it would take a person to do manually, thus freeing up valuable mental and creative energy.
Jobs also hints at the future potential of computing technology. By comparing the power consumption of a Macintosh (less than a 100-watt bulb) to its ability to save hours of time, he envisions a future where computers will become increasingly efficient, allowing for greater cognitive freedom and even more profound impacts on society. This reflects his belief that technological advancements will continue to unlock new possibilities for human creativity and productivity, changing the way people work, learn, and solve problems.
In the modern world, the concept of free intellectual energy is more relevant than ever. Advances in computing, artificial intelligence, and cloud technology have already made it possible for individuals and businesses to accomplish more with less effort, unleashing new levels of innovation. The ongoing development of more powerful, energy-efficient devices will continue to enhance human potential, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the next 10, 20, or even 50 years. Jobs’ vision encourages us to think about technology as a tool for empowerment, freeing up our intellectual resources to solve bigger and more complex challenges.
