Why we need innovation and technology more than ever

(and why we are launching this newsletter on Substack)

Human society is technological — and it’s a good thing

Our society is now widely based on technology, and technological innovation is what is shaping the world. From agriculture to medicine, from commerce to media, from industrial processes to human relations, digital technologies changed everything — and, arguably, improved everything.

All this may sound trivially obvious, but it would be a mistake to take it for granted. In fact, there is a rather strong move, all around the world, to stop technology and limit innovation. We believe it's a very bad idea. 

Yes, new technologies always have flaws and pitfalls, but their benefits overwhelmingly surpass the problems they create.

Progress is part of the human DNA

In many countries, some high-ranking officials have suggested banning 5G networks, limiting Internet use, eradicating cars, or stopping Bitcoin. 

Everywhere, militants and politicians are fighting against the most innovative technologies, whether it's artificial intelligence, blockchains, electric cars, or solar panels. Some see satellites as a mere "sky pollution" while others propose to shut down airports to save energy. In France, a country that pioneered vaccination, automobile, and photography, a major public media outlet recently proposed — seriously — "to stop progress.” Insane, if not terrifying.

At their deepest core, human beings are inventors. If we lose that, if we lose the ability to dream and develop new abilities through creativity, we lose everything.

We need more technology, not less

We will not build a better Internet with cookies banners or consent forms — but with new protocols, innovative business models, and new user-centric solutions giving people back control over their data and identity (Web3, dApps, decentralized IDs, NFTs and such).

We will not build a more fair and more transparent financial/monetary system through central banks' digital currencies (CBDC), which are identical to existing fiat currencies (and possibly much worst) — but with decentralized, open-sourced, mathematically issued digital money like Bitcoin.

We will not significantly improve air pollution by increasing taxes, reducing speed limits on highways, or stopping planes from flying — but by inventing new engines, new fuels, and new transport systems that are inherently less polluting.

It is a huge mistake to think that policies and regulations alone will bring all solutions. The wonderful device you have in your pocket, usefully replacing more than a dozen of devices from 20 years ago, was not invented by governments. Neither was the device that will help doctors save your life if you’re in serious trouble.

All over the world, hundreds of thousands of innovators, entrepreneurs, and researchers are inventing new solutions to the world’s problems.  They — not governments nor eco-militants — are holding the keys to a better future. Better yet, they are inventing these keys, through innovation and creativity. Without technology, there is no actual solution.

Be positive

A worldwide pandemic, a war, and an energy crisis, coupled with legit concerns about the health of planet Earth, have led the world into a state of panic and distress. FUD (Fear, Uncertainty, Doubt) is the new normal. 

But there is no reason to panic, really. Yes, climate change is a major challenge. But to face it, we need to rely on what we do best, and what we have been doing for centuries: pushing the limits, inventing, and creating. We have all the tools and knowledge to build a better world — a world that is smarter, more transparent, and much more eco-friendly.

The future will be decentralized and decarbonized.

The future is about innovating.

The future is bright.