Well done, nice collation of the worldview of the tech bros. I suggest an additional commentary regarding the libertarian supporters of the folks you discuss, their "base." These people have the misapprehension that if the (democratically elected) government isn't there to control them, NO ONE will control them, and they will be "free" in their imaginary libertarian utopia. This is sadly quite mistaken, as they simply will be controlled by those more powerful---the Thiels, Musks and the lesser sharks who will quickly emerge to dominate the populace. This is not wild theorization. Throughout recorded history, which consists almost entirely of non-democratic states, powerful individuals dominate society unchecked---except by OTHER powerful individuals, with whom they engage in endless conflict and wars (with the rest of us as cannon fodder). You might notice that libertarian philosophy was conspicuous by its absence in the general public in such states as it was patently obvious to all that the only solution was for people to band together against the powerful. Hence democracy.
Well done, nice collation of the worldview of the tech bros. I suggest an additional commentary regarding the libertarian supporters of the folks you discuss, their "base." These people have the misapprehension that if the (democratically elected) government isn't there to control them, NO ONE will control them, and they will be "free" in their imaginary libertarian utopia. This is sadly quite mistaken, as they simply will be controlled by those more powerful---the Thiels, Musks and the lesser sharks who will quickly emerge to dominate the populace. This is not wild theorization. Throughout recorded history, which consists almost entirely of non-democratic states, powerful individuals dominate society unchecked---except by OTHER powerful individuals, with whom they engage in endless conflict and wars (with the rest of us as cannon fodder). You might notice that libertarian philosophy was conspicuous by its absence in the general public in such states as it was patently obvious to all that the only solution was for people to band together against the powerful. Hence democracy.
Thanks for this note. Definitely agree!