Leading Accelerationist Affirms Technology's Non-Neutrality and Moral Imperative

Syd Steyerhart, a prominent figure in the effective accelerationism (e/acc) movement, recently articulated a core tenet of his philosophy, emphasizing that technology is far from a neutral tool. In a social media post on August 27, 2025, Steyerhart asserted that embracing new technologies fundamentally reshapes human existence and our interaction with the world. His statement underscores the belief that technology inherently possesses a "moral valence" and is inextricably linked to the concept of a "good life."

"The most important thing to understand about technology is that it is not a neutral tool, it has a moral valence. When you pick up a new technology you are picking up a new way of living and a new mode of being in the world. Technology is not separate from the good life," Steyerhart stated in his tweet. This perspective challenges the common perception of technology as merely an instrument, suggesting instead that it actively influences societal values and individual realities, shaping the very fabric of human experience.

Steyerhart is recognized as an early member and notable voice within the e/acc movement, an influential philosophical current gaining traction in Silicon Valley and beyond. His online presence, particularly on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), often features discussions on technology's role in civilization and its philosophical implications. His views align with a broader movement that advocates for rapid, unrestricted technological advancement.

Effective accelerationism (e/acc) is a techno-optimist philosophy that posits unrestricted technological progress, especially in artificial intelligence (AI), as the primary solution to global challenges such as poverty, war, and climate change. Proponents of e/acc aim to propel human civilization to higher stages of development, often referred to as "climbing the Kardashev gradient," by maximizing energy utilization and expanding consciousness across the universe. This movement views technology as a driving force for inevitable and beneficial societal evolution.

Drawing intellectual roots from traditional accelerationism, transhumanism, and extropianism, e/acc champions a future where innovation is unburdened by excessive regulation. Unlike those who advocate for caution or "deceleration" in technological development, e/acc believes that rapid advancement, fueled by market forces, is the most effective path to a utopian future. The movement often dismisses concerns about existential risks from advanced AI, viewing them as impediments to progress and human flourishing.

The philosophy articulated by Steyerhart and embraced by e/acc figures like venture capitalists Marc Andreessen and Garry Tan, sparks ongoing debate regarding the ethical implications and societal impact of accelerating technological change. Critics argue against the "move fast and break things" mentality, particularly concerning AI, emphasizing the need for careful consideration and robust safeguards to prevent unintended consequences. This ideological clash highlights fundamental differences in vision for humanity's technological future.