Slashdot Mirror


When More Information Isn't a Good Thing

Carl Bialik from the WSJ writes "'Most of the time, speedier, cheaper information allows the economy to produce more from less, often by eliminating mistakes, cutting wasted effort and shrinking doubt,' David Wessel writes in the Wall Street Journal. But better information through technology has a downside; sometimes, efficiency benefits certain players to the detriment of society. One example Wessel cites: software that tells patent litigants which courts have the most favorable historical record for their side. 'It doesn't help the economy produce more goods or services. It creates nothing of beauty or pleasure,' he writes. 'It simply helps someone get a bigger slice of the pie.'"

4 of 200 comments (clear)

  1. When More Information Isn't a Good Thing by gowen · · Score: 5, Funny

    When your parents are discussing their sexual preferences.

    --
    Athletic Scholarships to universities make as much sense as academic scholarships to sports teams.
    1. Re:When More Information Isn't a Good Thing by Diego_27182818 · · Score: 3, Funny
      When your parents are discussing their sexual preferences.

      Where's the -1 OH GOD MY EYES!!! mod?
      --
      Warning, cape does not enable user to fly
    2. Re:When More Information Isn't a Good Thing by thesandtiger · · Score: 2, Funny

      I was made privy to the time, place, and circumstances of my conception.

      Hm... what is "Shit I did NOT FUCKING NEED TO KNOW"?

      My parents were hippies. I'm just lucky I'm not named Brussel Sprout or some shit.

      --
      Since I can't tell them apart, I treat all ACs as the same person.
    3. Re:When More Information Isn't a Good Thing by thesandtiger · · Score: 3, Funny

      Yes, you're the luckiest "sandtiger" in the world.

      Hey, it was either that or Picabo Street.

      --
      Since I can't tell them apart, I treat all ACs as the same person.