" We’ve never thought too deeply about the roles things like forgetting or partisanship or inefficiency or ambiguity or hypocrisy play in our political or social life. It’s been impossible to get rid of them, so we took them for granted, and we kind of thought, naively, that they’re always the enemy. "
- Evgeny Morozov

In everyday life, we often encounter various imperfections such as forgetfulness, partisanship, inefficiency, ambiguity, and hypocrisy that can impact our social and political interactions. The speaker suggests that these elements are typically seen as obstacles or negative aspects of society because they disrupt smooth functioning. However, the quote implies that rather than trying to eliminate them, we have come to accept their existence as an inevitable part of human behavior.

The deeper meaning of this statement lies in questioning our assumptions about societal flaws. Instead of always viewing these imperfections as enemies to be vanquished, Morozov encourages a reevaluation of their roles and potential benefits. For example, the act of forgetting can protect us from emotional overload or mental fatigue, while partisanship might drive individuals to engage more deeply with issues they care about. By acknowledging that these traits are not inherently negative but rather integral aspects of human nature, we may find ways to use them constructively in our social and political spheres.

Evgeny Morozov is a prominent writer and commentator on technology and politics, known for his critical analysis of the impact of digital technologies on society. His work often challenges conventional wisdom about how these technologies influence power dynamics and social structures, urging us to consider both positive and negative implications. Through his writings, he frequently explores how technological advancements intersect with broader issues like democracy, privacy, and freedom of expression, providing insightful perspectives that encourage readers to think beyond surface-level assessments.