Manifesto

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The manifesto written by Theodore John Kaczynski

The manifesto written by Theodore John Kaczynski, titled “Industrial Society and Its Future”, was published in 1995. It consists of 232 paragraphs outlining his critiques of modern technological society, its effects on human freedom, and his views on what could be done to address these issues.

Here’s a broad outline of the manifesto’s main topics:

1. Introduction (Paragraphs 1-6)

  • Kaczynski introduces his thesis: The Industrial Revolution and its consequences have been disastrous for humanity.
  • He sets the foundation for why he believes modern technology erodes freedom and causes widespread psychological suffering.

2. The Power Process (Paragraphs 7-37)

  • Explains the concept of the “power process”—a framework of achieving goals and experiencing autonomy in life.
  • Argues that industrial society disrupts this natural process because basic needs are too easily met, leading to psychological issues.
  • Introduces terms like “surrogate activities” (unnecessary hobbies or pursuits) that people turn to in order to feel purpose.

3. The Problems of Modern Society (Paragraphs 38-76)

  • Highlights the growing control of individuals by large systems (e.g., governments, corporations).
  • Discusses the impact of technology on human autonomy, nature, and small communities.
  • Critiques the loss of personal freedom due to modern societal rules.

4. The Psychology of Leftism (Paragraphs 8-36, 83-120)

  • Kaczynski claims that modern “leftism” stems from feelings of inferiority, oversocialization, and a desire for control.
  • He argues that leftists often oppose technology in ways that still reinforce technological systems, undermining true revolution.

5. Disruption of Human Behavior (Paragraphs 121-144)

  • Explores how technological systems force humans to behave in unnatural ways.
  • Asserts that people are manipulated into conformity by bureaucratic systems and societal norms.

6. The Future of Industrial Society (Paragraphs 145-182)

  • Predicts two potential outcomes:
  1. Technology continues to advance, leading to complete control over human behavior and loss of freedom.
  2. The industrial system collapses, providing an opportunity to rebuild society on a smaller, more natural scale.
  • Warns that technological “solutions” to problems often create worse consequences.

7. Strategy for Revolution (Paragraphs 183-232)

  • Advocates for the elimination of the technological system rather than reforming it.
  • Rejects political reform or violence aimed at small issues; instead, he calls for a comprehensive rejection of industrial society.
  • Suggests focusing on spreading anti-technology ideology to prepare for a potential collapse.

Conclusion:

The manifesto concludes with a reiteration of the main point: technology is incompatible with human freedom, and radical action is necessary to dismantle the system.

The full text can be found in archives or historical repositories under its title “Industrial Society and Its Future.”

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“We give up a piece of ourselves whenever we adjust to conform to society’s standards. That, and we’re too plugged in. We’re letting technology take over our lives, willingly.”

— Theodore John Kaczynski