Chapter 1: The Paradox of Progress

As digital technologies and mainstream medicine evolve at an unprecedented pace, we are witnessing a simultaneous and notable resurgence of ancestral technologies. The overwhelming presence of screens in our lives, particularly among children who increasingly inhabit a digital realm, raises questions about whether this shift truly signifies "progress."

Before diving into the factors driving the revival of ancestral methods and remedies, it’s important to discuss the troubling reality shaped by corporate interests, especially within digital technology and conventional healthcare.

Many of us harbor legitimate skepticism regarding the monopolistic tendencies of tech giants such as Facebook, Google, and others. Although these platforms promise enhanced connectivity and convenience, they often lead to a more sterile and disconnected existence. People are increasingly realizing the value of in-person interactions, referred to in tech jargon as "meatspace."

These tech conglomerates are not merely private entities; they exert substantial influence over our social interactions, continuously mining our data and fostering dependency on their services. If this manipulation seems nefarious, it is.

Take OkCupid as a prime example of this techno-fascist era. The app profits from users remaining on the platform rather than forming lasting relationships. Users are restricted from discussing certain topics or sharing interests outside of dating, which stifles genuine connections. This commodification of desire is further complicated by an overwhelming array of choices that often paralyze decision-making.

Platforms like Skype, Microsoft, and Facebook have been known to censor content and suppress user expression, particularly in contexts where it may be deemed objectionable. With our lives increasingly lived online, the harmful implications of legislative measures like SOSTA/FESTA are more pronounced, particularly for women and marginalized groups.

If these laws fail to provide genuine safety and only exacerbate risks for vulnerable communities, one must question their purpose. As highlighted by Aja Romano in a Vox article, significant corporate entities—ranging from Hollywood to tech giants—stand to benefit from this legislative framework, which threatens free speech and increases corporate power over digital spaces.

Chapter 2: The Illusion of Freedom in Digital Spaces

Digital technologies emerged with the promise of empowering individuals and democratizing access to global communication. Yet, while we often view the internet as a manifestation of the belief that "information wants to be free," few recognize the deeper implications of this notion. Hacker Stewart Brand, who popularized this phrase, pointed out that "information also wants to be expensive."

This complex interplay has fueled the rise of misinformation and censorship, while also prompting a rush to privatize and exploit user data.

Google, for instance, offers a poor substitute for traditional libraries, as information is ranked based on user behavior rather than credibility. The ease of access to information has overshadowed the importance of its reliability, and Big Tech is all too willing to exploit this paradox.

In her memoir, Anna Wiener reflects on the unregulated nature of data collection in the tech world, highlighting the corporate thirst for predictive analytics and the lack of transparency for users. Conventional Western medicine mirrors this approach, distancing individuals from their own bodies and from one another.

Olivia Snow, a sex worker and activist, discusses the implications of SOSTA/FESTA in her writing, noting that the legislation effectively criminalizes online discussions about sex work, thus increasing surveillance. She argues that the state’s intent is not to eliminate sex work or abortion, which have persisted throughout history, but to consolidate power.

In these times of heightened surveillance and control, where women face further restrictions over their bodies and choices, reclaiming personal autonomy and fostering connections outside of these oppressive frameworks becomes an act of rebellion.

Despite the pervasive influence of Big Tech and Big Pharma, a counter-movement is emerging. People are reclaiming their power, reintroducing traditional earth medicines into their lives, and advocating for a more decentralized internet. The green wave and psychedelic renaissance underscore a growing recognition of the healing potential of substances like cannabis and psilocybin mushrooms, signaling a shift in how we perceive health and wellness.

In conclusion, while information remains a double-edged sword, understanding where to seek it is crucial. As we navigate this complex landscape, the revival of ancestral technologies offers a compelling pathway toward empowerment and connection.