Re:'1984' at Seventy: Why We Still Read Orwell
by cgrealy on Tuesday June 11, 2019 @10:32PM
(#20161255)
Again, choosing not to switch off a device because you're "addicted" is not the same as "can't turn off".
And every device has an off switch. At the very worst, you either unplug it or don't charge it or throw the damn thing out.
Where you're absolutely right is the voluntary aspect of modern surveillance. If we had a BB style telescreen, it would annoy people to the point of revolt, but package it with "content" and everyone is cool with it.
This is one of the things that Orwell did not anticipate: there's no need to threaten people with prison. People will voluntarily set up the spying infrastructure in their homees if they perceive that it's cool or that it makes life a little more convenient for them. They'll even pay for it!