Overconnected

In this summary you will learn

• Why complex systems like the Internet inevitably produce serious problems
• What role positive feedback loops play in creating manias
• How the Internet has facilitated and promoted global crises

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Why you should read Overconnected

This original presentation covers the history, benefits, problems and possible solutions associated with the Internet’s expansion. Venture capitalist and author William Davidow is a Silicon Valley insider who convincingly argues that global interconnectivity greatly stresses political and economic institutions’ ability to police the Internet. His examples illustrate that recent economic crashes – as well as invasions of privacy, identity hacking and the proliferation of pornography – are all part of the Internet’s unregulated advance. Davidow warns that the Internet will impel bigger, more complex institutional breakdowns and economic manias, and that only increased government regulation can keep it in check. getAbstract recommends his cautionary report to those who study technology and those who use it.

About the Author

William H. Davidow, a Silicon Valley venture capitalist, is the author of Marketing High Technology, Total Customer Service and The Virtual Corporation.