Jimmy Francis, Founder and Creative Partner,
Interesting Times.The early internet was sold as a techno-utopia – a free space for expression, democracy, and discovery. In practice, it was chaos with dial-up tones, suspicious chat rooms, and a sense of wonder that anything was possible. The promise was decentralisation and access. The reality became banner ads, flame wars, and AOL CDs in the mail. Still, the dream was sincere: that connectivity could cure inequality and alienation. Sound familiar?
Underlying this techno-utopianism was the belief that if enough self-interested individuals connected through digital networks, a harmonious society would naturally emerge. It’s the fantasy of a social order without politics, just code. But without structure,
To continue reading this article you need to be registered with Campaign. Registration is free and only takes a minute. Register Now or sign in below if you already have an account.
