Tim Cook's Warning: Tech Needs Humanity, or Else

Tim Cook's 2017 MIT Commencement Speech: A Timely Reminder of Human Values in Technology In 2017, Apple CEO Tim Cook delivered a commencement address at MIT that resonates strongly even today. His speech focused on the critical need to incorporate human values into technological development, warning against the dangers of technology without ethical considerations. Cook's address wasn't merely a celebration of technological advancement; it was a call for responsible innovation. Cook stated, "I'm more concerned about people thinking like computers, without values or compassion," highlighting his concern that a purely technological approach could lead to a dehumanized future. He emphasized the importance of the humanities in guiding technological progress, comparing the humanities to "a candle that shows us where we've been and the danger that lies ahead." The speech also highlighted the need for technology to be "married with the liberal arts." This sentiment is echoed in many of the comments, some of which express concern over Apple's business practices. One commenter, for example, noted, "They offload millions of phones from planes from China...to avoid paying fair wages to Americans in Manufacturing." This critique underscores the ongoing debate about ethical considerations in global manufacturing and technology. Cook's speech serves as a powerful reminder that technology should serve humanity, not the other way around. The enduring relevance of his message is a testament to the importance of integrating ethical considerations into the development and application of technology.