A Speed Limit for Computers

The article draws a parallel between Ivan Illich's 1973 theory that excessive energy consumption reduces equity and autonomy, and modern computing power. Just as vehicle speed limits were eventually implemented to address fuel inequality and concentrated control, the author argues that computing may need similar regulatory limits—such as caps on hard drive size or CPU speed—to prevent the concentration of power and control among a few large technology companies. The piece suggests that many contemporary problems stemming from tech monopolies and reduced user autonomy may be inherent to unlimited computing capability rather than inevitable features of technology.