Spirits: Mythology, Legends, & Folklore The Mythos of Technology and Capitalism w/ Jathan Sadowski
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May 28, 2025 
Join Jathan Sadowski, a senior lecturer at Monash University and author of *The Mechanic and the Luddite*, as he unpacks the intricate connections between mythology, technology, and capitalism. He challenges the myth of technological inevitability and critiques the romanticized narratives of tech heroes. The conversation dives into the legacy of the Luddites, framing them as modern folk heroes while exploring the material consequences of our tech-driven society. Sadowski urges listeners to reconsider how corporate narratives shape our understanding of progress.
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Capitalism's Enforcing Force
- Many tech decision makers feel compelled to adopt new technologies without understanding why.
- Capitalism enforces these choices through an almost supernatural force called "the laws of capital."
Mythology in Tech Branding
- Silicon Valley uses obvious mythology motifs openly, e.g., Oracle named after the Oracle of Delphi.
- This lack of subtext reveals how deeply mythology influences tech branding and culture.
Futurology as Modern Oracle
- Futurology heavily relies on methods like the Delphi method to create scenarios tied to prophecy and oracles.
- These methods are corporate tools to control futures for power and profit.
