Reshaping for Conviviality

The real question facing us today is whether generative AI can be reshaped into a tool for conviviality. I would hazard a guess that Illich wouldn't be optimistic.

Certain tools are destructive no matter who owns them, whether it be the Mafia, stockholders, a foreign company, the state, or even a workers’ commune. Networks of multilane highways, long-range, wide-band-width transmitters, strip mines, or compulsory school systems are such tools. Destructive tools must inevitably increase regimentation, dependence, exploitation, or impotence, and rob not only the rich but also the poor of conviviality, which is the primary treasure in many so-called “underdeveloped” areas.

And yet, glimmers of hope exist. Over the past year, I've become increasingly enamored by software tools that can be self-hosted. For only ~$100 and the electricity it takes to power it, a little Raspberry Pi single board computer is sitting in my attic running a variety of different programs that are part of my digital toolkit.

A self-hosted digital tool feels as close to me as the digital equivalent of a hand tool as we have. It is totally under your control (for better or worse—I can't count the number of times that I've needed to fix random, mostly self-inflicted, Linux issues). It fosters connection between users working on their own to configure and run their servers rather than relying on a centralized company server. There are no forced upgrades or the potential for your favorite app to be shut down since you are in control of your server.

The Anti-conviviality of Generative AI