You point out a worthy target, Big Brother. While I remain incredulous with how the political landscape is replete with those who undertake or accept any means to their ultra-conservative ends, abuse of modern technology in our homes and workplaces is also undermining our freedoms. I recall during the Nixon administration how, as a federal government worker, I became quite cautious about what I said and to who.
Another memory.
Many years ago, I was delighted with the modern concrete slab structure that formed the Metro subway system for the greater Washington, District of Columbia, region. It was brand new back then.
One day after working late, I dragged myself to my local DC station for the subway ride back to Old Virginia. That’s when I took out a left-over candy bar from my jacket pocket. That’s when I took a nibble. That’s when a voice boomed from loudspeakers scattered throughout the domed ceiling.
“You there, in the black jacket! Stop eating immediately!”
Startled, I obeyed the voice in mid bite.
“Put whatever you are eating away, now!”
That’s when I began to put my forbidden nourishment away.
Then I stopped in mid-put away. Purposefully, slowly, and with great panache, I brought the candy upwards and took a large bite smiling and chewing with as much satisfaction as I might muster . . . even while my train approached.
I was not having any of that big brother crap.
I hope people rebel at what employers are attempting to impose on us cogs.
Insightful, as usual. It strikes me that dehumanization is creeping into other of our institutions -- educational, medical, how we buy stuff.
Thoughtful article on surveillance and its potential to dehumanize.
You point out a worthy target, Big Brother. While I remain incredulous with how the political landscape is replete with those who undertake or accept any means to their ultra-conservative ends, abuse of modern technology in our homes and workplaces is also undermining our freedoms. I recall during the Nixon administration how, as a federal government worker, I became quite cautious about what I said and to who.
Another memory.
Many years ago, I was delighted with the modern concrete slab structure that formed the Metro subway system for the greater Washington, District of Columbia, region. It was brand new back then.
One day after working late, I dragged myself to my local DC station for the subway ride back to Old Virginia. That’s when I took out a left-over candy bar from my jacket pocket. That’s when I took a nibble. That’s when a voice boomed from loudspeakers scattered throughout the domed ceiling.
“You there, in the black jacket! Stop eating immediately!”
Startled, I obeyed the voice in mid bite.
“Put whatever you are eating away, now!”
That’s when I began to put my forbidden nourishment away.
Then I stopped in mid-put away. Purposefully, slowly, and with great panache, I brought the candy upwards and took a large bite smiling and chewing with as much satisfaction as I might muster . . . even while my train approached.
I was not having any of that big brother crap.
I hope people rebel at what employers are attempting to impose on us cogs.