"Technology is not inherently good or evil. It is only a tool for reflecting our values."
In general I agree with Grove, but the problem becomes when the low barriers-to-entry allow competing values, especially those that can influence young people, to be easily and cheaply offered online.
He's right in that technology is neutral, he's wrong in it can empower evil in an easier way than it has in the past. For example, sexual predators now inhabiting Internet social networks looking for victims to abuse.
On the other hand, what technology gives it can also take away. The problem there is most caregivers don't know how to use technology in a way that can block the majority of the dangers it creates. By time they discover they can do things to help in that way, a lot of damage has been done. Most people, just like businesses, are behind the learning curve in what is happening now.
Overall though, Grove is right on here. Whatever exists in society in general, will eventually be reflected in the technology that's created: whether good or evil.
So if you're consuming any type of media, what's in the real world will eventually be available in the digital world as well.
The way to combat this isn't in battling technology, but rather in battling for values, which will always be presented to the general population, no matter what the type of format it's offered on.
When values change, technology isn't nearly as scary as it may seem. If the war for values is ever lost, it won't matter what the technology is, it will be reflected into the world either way.
In our businesses, that's why we must battle to make it a place that puts a huge emphasis on healthy, quality values. Whatever values we hold, that in the end will be what's seen; whether through technology or daily interaction by our people with our customers.
Other Andy Grove Resources:
Andy Grove's Rational Exuberance
The Digital Age . . . driven by the passion of Intel's Andrew Grove
The History and Influence of Andy Grove
Andy Grove enters new post-Intel role as activist capitalist
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