Do you find Stephenson’s view of the future (world politics) plausible?
I agree with Stephenson that businesses, in particular corporations, will increase their political influence. Stephenson’s view was of a completely capitalist oriented political system, without any sort of non-business oriented influential interest groups. This seems very unlikely to me given the prevalence of socialist institutions and goals that would certainly not support a political sphere ruled by franchises. I do not think that sovereign states will disappear because culture and identity will remain important. Stephenson addresses this issue with different ethnic franchises, but I think these oversimplify cultural diversity and would not be an acceptable alternative. The emphasis on technology and its manipulation as directly related to power and influence seems historically accurate. What was missing for me in Stephenson’s forecast was the humanitarian aspect of society. His book seemed to say that in the future human life will not be sacred and protecting it will not be a priority. I simply do not see this happening. Looking through American history at least, as time has passed people have become more concerned in involved with the human and political concerns of other nations. Overall I would say that I do not find Stephenson’s view of the future plausible.
Which franchulate would you like to live in?
Mr. Lees’s Greater Hong Kong because the Rat Things are amazing. The mafia, especially Uncle Enzo was cool but comes with a bit too much obligation and worry.
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You make a good point about the humanitarian side of Stephenson's projection of the future. I hadn't thought about that, but now that you mention it, it is blaringly obvious - a certain value that is usually given to life definitely does lack throughout the book... this is probably yet another reason that the book left me feeling unsettled. However, I do think that anything is possible and that, therefore, Stephenson's future may very well be the future of the real world.
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