As technology becomes increasingly interdependent are the risks of catastrophic failure greater?

Question

Our major systems are now so interconnected that the failure of something seemingly insignificant could have major repercussions on global scale. Discuss

Answer 1

I believe the opposite is true.  Interdependence is sprinkled with redundance.  Thus, if a part fails, the whole carries on.  Load bearing for the hive mind :-)

Answer 2

Well... If we are to believe John Titor.

The Unix based systems will begin to fail around 2030

As the clocks hit 11111111 and shift allll the way back to 0.

Hmm, a scary thought. And i think we are in for a rough ride in the future, if any of this new technology does fail - we are starting to forget how to survive without it.

Answer 3

I think that the more we become dependent on technology in any form, the more vulnerable we become to catastrophic failure.  Simple example:  in most buildings built in the past twenty years, you can't open the windows. Why?  There is no need because of central air and heating, both certainly "low-tech" forms of technology.  So now if there is a power failure, the buildings can't be kept cool.  The more critical the technology, the more vulnerable we are to a failure.  I think your question can lead to some very interesting conversations.

Answer 4

um.... you mean like terminator? or irobot?

joking.........