If you look at the history of innovation, the innovations coming through the defence department have been some of the most important innovations ever. Little things like drones, sensors, and the Internet of Things are defence-type initiatives, but the big one is the Internet itself.

David Cohen’s quote, "If you look at the history of innovation, the innovations coming through the defence department have been some of the most important innovations ever," highlights the significant role that the defence department has played in driving technological advancements. Cohen emphasizes that many of the most transformative innovations in history have emerged from military research and development. Technologies initially designed for defence purposes often find wider applications in civilian life, benefiting various industries and everyday life.

Cohen specifically mentions "little things like drones, sensors, and the Internet of Things", illustrating how these technologies, while initially developed for military use, have become essential in many sectors today. Drones are now used in industries ranging from agriculture to entertainment, while sensors and the Internet of Things have revolutionized fields like healthcare, manufacturing, and smart homes. By mentioning these, Cohen underscores how defence-related innovations can evolve into broad, impactful technologies.

The key point of the quote, however, is Cohen’s statement that "the big one is the Internet itself." He recognizes that the Internet, which has become a foundational element of modern society, originated from military projects like the ARPANET, developed by the U.S. Department of Defense. The Internet is perhaps the most significant innovation that emerged from defence initiatives, reshaping communication, commerce, and culture worldwide.

Originating from Cohen’s understanding of the relationship between military spending and technological progress, this quote sheds light on the unintended benefits of defence department projects. It highlights how government-funded research in the military sector often results in innovations that later become indispensable parts of daily life, from drones to the Internet itself.