Future Histories: What Ada Lovelace, Tom Paine, and the Paris Commune Can Teach Us About Digital Technology

Lizzie O Shea's book "Future Histories" argues that we need to look backwards to understand the digital future, weaving together histories of computing and social movements with modern theories of the mind, society, and self. She suggests that the Paris Commune and Tom Paine's theories can guide debates over equal digital access and that Elon Musk is a throwback to Victorian-era utopians. The book is for all of us who find ourselves in a brave new world.

Format: Hardback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 14 May 2019
Publisher: Verso Books

When we delve into the realm of technology, our conversations inevitably revolve around the future, casting a shadow of uncertainty over our path to get there. In her book, Future Histories, Lizzie O Shea challenges us to shift our gaze from the horizon and start exploring the past. By seamlessly weaving together histories of computing and social movements with contemporary theories of the mind, society, and self, O Shea constructs a usable past that serves as a valuable guide for shaping our digital future.

O Shea begins by asking thought-provoking questions. What insights can we gain from the Paris Commune, a historical experiment in sharing resources akin to the Internet? How can the theories of democratic, economic redistribution articulated by Tom Paine guide our discussions on equal digital access? And why is Elon Musk, often portrayed as a visionary, more akin to Victorian-era utopians in his approach to technology?

Through engaging and sparkling prose, O Shea unveils the human nature of our understanding of technology, highlighting the potential for struggle, liberation, and artistic expression in our digital present. Future Histories appeals to a wide range of individuals, from makers and coders to hacktivists and Facebook users, who find themselves navigating a brave new world.

In this book, O Shea encourages us to look back and learn from the past, drawing parallels between historical events and contemporary challenges. She challenges us to question our assumptions and biases, and to embrace a more nuanced and critical perspective on technology. By doing so, we can create a future that is more inclusive, sustainable, and humane.

Ultimately, Future Histories serves as a call to action. It reminds us that our digital lives are shaped not only by the technologies we create but also by the social, cultural, and political contexts in which we operate. By embracing a historical perspective, we can gain a deeper understanding of the forces that have shaped our digital world and work towards creating a future that is more equitable, prosperous, and meaningful for all.

Weight: 634g
Dimension: 240 x 160 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781788734301