It is interesting how positions on technology can shift over time. Often the public stance is less about the absolute energy consumption and more about whether the perceived benefits outweigh the costs. Bitcoin has a direct and visible electricity footprint tied to proof of work which is easy to criticise especially if you do not see the value in its decentralised model. AI on the other hand has a much less transparent footprint and is wrapped in narratives about innovation productivity and capability so it feels easier to justify. We tend to forgive energy use when we believe in the outcomes and our beliefs evolve as new tools align with our current interests. This is less contradiction than it is a reminder that our convictions are often situational.
It is interesting how positions on technology can shift over time. Often the public stance is less about the absolute energy consumption and more about whether the perceived benefits outweigh the costs. Bitcoin has a direct and visible electricity footprint tied to proof of work which is easy to criticise especially if you do not see the value in its decentralised model. AI on the other hand has a much less transparent footprint and is wrapped in narratives about innovation productivity and capability so it feels easier to justify. We tend to forgive energy use when we believe in the outcomes and our beliefs evolve as new tools align with our current interests. This is less contradiction than it is a reminder that our convictions are often situational.