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The rise of techno-authoritarianism is not an aberration; it is a continuation. It draws from the same well as ancient empires and modern tyrannies: inequality, fear, apathy, and ambition.
We are not out of the woods yet. But history reminds us that urgent action is needed. The longer power consolidates, the harder it is to overthrow. In a world where power no longer wears a crown but a clean interface, we must look closer and choose, collectively, to resist. The greatest lie of authoritarianism has always been that it could never happen here. Or now. Or to us. And yet here we are, dazzled by technology and politically disarmed.
Plato said,“ The price of apathy in public affairs is to be governed by evil men.”
Techno-authoritarianism did not emerge out of nowhere. It was born of a mixture of complacency, corporate ambition, and political cowardice. We are not living in the preface to this story; we are in the middle of its chapters.
Hubert Marlin Elingui Jr. Journalist
Flashmag! Issue 160 May 2025
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