But let’s not pretend that there isn’t a problem. Let’s acknowledge, in the words of one highly experienced processor designer, that there is indeed “a possibility that computer equipment power consumption spiraling out of control could have serious consequences for the overall affordability of computing, not to mention the overall health of the planet.” Let’s get a real challenge out in the open.
Walk or bike to work instead of getting out the car? Of course. Learn the complex routines for recycling bins? Hopefully. Think before leaving on the next jet plane? Naturally. But what’s the use of worrying and wondering about a wilting world when Susan Boyle videos by the zillion are clogging up YouTube, when life is a deluge of puerile twitters and bilious blogs?
I know the Web is a wonder beyond compare. I work on it for hours every day. I can’t be without it (via laptop, BlackBerry or iPhone). But I’m also glumly aware that it brings despond in its train, that much of what irks us most is digital cause and effect. Discuss? No, we don’t want to know. Just like the blogger who won’t think about electricity demand because “Oh yawn! ... it’s government’s job to supply that demand” — just like spammers with scintillating orgasms for sale.
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