Technology has moved away from sharing and toward ownership. This suits software and hardware companies just fine: They create new, bloated programs that require more disk space and processing power. We buy bigger, faster computers, which then require more complex operating systems, and so on.

The quote by Douglas Rushkoff, "Technology has moved away from sharing and toward ownership. This suits software and hardware companies just fine: They create new, bloated programs that require more disk space and processing power. We buy bigger, faster computers, which then require more complex operating systems, and so on," critiques the shift in the technology industry from a model of shared resources to one focused on ownership and constant consumption. Rushkoff argues that software and hardware companies benefit from this cycle, where they release larger, more complex products that encourage consumers to continually upgrade their devices, leading to a cycle of increasing demand for more powerful computers and more complex systems.

Rushkoff suggests that this shift towards ownership has led to an environment where companies push consumers to buy new technology and software not necessarily because it’s more functional or useful, but because it’s more demanding in terms of resources like disk space and processing power. This has created a loop: as technology becomes more resource-heavy, consumers are compelled to upgrade their systems to keep up with the demands of newer software, which in turn requires even more processing power. The focus on ownership rather than sharing has led to a system where constant consumption and upgrade cycles are the norm.

The origin of this quote comes from Douglas Rushkoff, a media theorist and author who often critiques how technology influences society and culture. Rushkoff is known for his writings on digital culture, media, and technology, where he explores the impact of these developments on human behavior, economics, and society. His critique of the tech industry reflects his concern about how companies exploit the growing need for more resources and complexity in technology.

Rushkoff’s words serve as a cautionary note about the consequences of an increasingly capitalistic and consumer-driven approach to technology. By focusing on ownership and continuous upgrades, technology companies create a cycle that benefits them but may not always align with the best interests of the consumer or the larger society. His quote encourages reflection on whether technology should be more about sharing and accessibility, rather than constant ownership and consumption.