The quote suggests that if a company like Google were chosen to manage critical infrastructure used by an organization aiming to change the world, it would likely become entrenched as an essential service provider for an extended period. The speaker implies that this long-term dependency on Google could lead to reduced transparency and accountability since individuals or organizations might not have the ability to request detailed information from the company through public records requests.
On a deeper level, the quote raises concerns about the increasing reliance on large tech companies like Google for essential services and infrastructure. By becoming indispensable, these companies can exert significant influence over various aspects of society without being subject to the same scrutiny as government entities or traditional institutions. This situation challenges democratic principles by limiting public access to information that could be crucial for understanding how these companies operate and interact with societal systems.
Evgeny Morozov is a well-known commentator on technology, politics, and internet culture. He often critiques the impact of digital technologies on society and frequently explores themes related to internet freedom, privacy, and the relationship between tech corporations and governance structures. His insights are valuable in discussions about how new technologies shape political systems and societal norms.
