Software as the Enemy
To add a bit of pointed levity to your day, the NY Times ran an article today about how some highly placed people in the military are coming to view Powerpoint as a big problem — not only a time-waster, but something that is actively dangerous. This isn’t the first time I’ve heard people complain about the program. But it’s the first time I’ve seen a piece of software described as something that can actively restrict thought and ideas — on the front page of a major newspaper. The fact that it comes from the military — from the reality-based community, to use a phrase popularized under Bush II — gives it even more weight.
A couple of choice quotes:
“PowerPoint makes us stupid.” Gen. James N. Mattis — Marine Corps Joint Forces commander
“It’s dangerous because it can create the illusion of understanding and the illusion of control” — Brig. Gen. H. R. McMaster
There’s more, and it’s pretty entertaining.
Check it out here: We Have Met the Enemy and He Is PowerPoint
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