[nyclounge]

>Note: I don't want FB to have my data. I also don't want Apple to have those powers enumerated above.

In an ideal world that would be great. However, right now it is either Apple of Google when it comes to smart devices for average consumers. Kinda like political dichotomy in US politics.

Democracy will not function with an educated public. And dumbing down choices are just a way to get give power to megacorp and political institutions.

[inetknght]

> Democracy will not function with an educated public.

What makes you think that?

> dumbing down choices are just a way to get give power to megacorp and political institutions

Yes, and an educated public would find better ways to convey the same information because they can use their education to build a new thing, or build regulations or laws where they see a need, or build defenses against adversaries without sacrificing privacy. You can't do that with your local public (eg, citizens) if your citizens aren't able to comprehend the problems they're encountering.

[nyclounge]

> Democracy will not function with an educated public. What makes you think that?

Sorry now I can't edit the parent comment now. That was miss type (bad keyboard). Meant to say "Democracy will not function with OUT an educated public. Happy New Year!