[applicative]

That my every movement is known to Google, Meta, Apple, et al, is much more disturbing than any autocratic effect of the dismal Patriot Act. The idea that ‘the state’ is the thing to fear, or even worth a moments’ thought, is basically childish and premodern. Witness eg the apotheosis of Snowden for revealing nugatory CIA corner cutting … in the same historical period when the above mentioned are completely hoovering up and relentlessly analyzing every datum about every American.

[roarcher]

Those corporations are certainly to be feared, but they don't have the power to impose violence or prison on you. The state does. It was the state that forced Snowden into exile. It is the state that is detaining people for the crime of walking out of Home Depot while speaking with an accent. Both must be kept in check.

[inigyou]

Google has the power to fire me from my job by deleting my Google account.

[roarcher]

I don't know why that would be the case, but let's say it is.

An overzealous cop and prosecutor can, with a little luck, use the power of the state to get you executed or imprisoned for life for a crime you didn't commit.

If you had to choose one of those, which one would you prefer?

[inigyou]

The cop and prosecutor. At least three people would have to be stupid to take my life, versus zero people at Google

[roarcher]

> At least three people would have to be stupid to take my life

And that has happened many times. It is not as improbable as you seem to think.

I really can't understand the thought process of someone who thinks it would better to have their life ended than their current job.