What is new about the new technologies?

摘要

Technical innovations, an effective infrastructure and efficient organisational structures were the foundations on which the Roman Empire, its prosperity and cultural achievements were built. Also the Romans themselves saw it this way.Cicero wrote, "Spending the money on the buildings of walls, docks, harbours, water systems and all the other things that serve the common property is more valuable than putting it in the people's pockets". Many Roman Emperors, e.g. Augustus, Trajan, Claudius and Vespasian, took pride in representing their infrastructural achievements on triumphal arches.Also today technical innovations, an effective infrastructure and efficient organisational structures are the supporting pillars of our industrial society and of all successful companies. Information technology, our most recent innovation, is probably of similar importance than road construction in Roman times.