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From Anarchy to Power by Wendy Grossman, New York University Press, $24.95, ISBN 08147314114

FROM schools rushing to get new computers to new laws on privacy, the boom and bust of dotcom companies to the hype of e-science, no one can deny that computers and the Internet are changing the world. Unfortunately, there’s a gap between the sorts of people who try to make the world better and the sorts of people who promote computers. Diplomats and computer industry leaders came together, for example, in a recent “Virtual Diplomacy” conference. They found that they had nothing in common.

We wouldn’t let a builder into our home if they began by saying that they would not be responsible for any damage they caused, or that they would use materials guaranteed for only 90 days. So why do we agree to software warranties that protect companies from every liability? If you want to see how traditional values in music, public libraries and science, are being profoundly challenged, have a search for the Uniform Computer Information Transactions Act on the web.

More children are harmed by poverty every day than have ever been harmed by the Net, whether by nasty content or nasty people. Right across society, from business people, teachers and scientists to librarians and parents, we need to become informed and mature thinkers about new technology.

These thoughts come from just a few pages of Wendy Grossman’s book From Anarchy to Power. Don’t confuse it with the usual run of nerdy “how to…” books. From Anarchy to Power is an excellent, highly informative book. It cannot be recommended highly enough. Anyone concerned about the future.