Living in an IoT world: the hidden tech shaping our lives

5 reasons why we shouldn’t let it

“The Internet of Things has the potential to change the world, just as the Internet did. Maybe even more so.” — Kevin Ashton.

How many remember the Simpson’s episode “You Only Move Twice,” which is the 2nd episode in Season 8 of the long-standing hit show. It is the episode where the Simpsons move to Cypress Creek, after Homer gets a new job working for the Globex Corporation, run by the charismatic and seemingly friendly Hank Scorpio. Cypress Creek, the location of the Simpson’s new home, is a stand-in for Silicon Valley, with its fully automated and perfect everything — from the parks to the well-groomed lawns and perfectly tanned people. The family initially opposes the move, but after watching a Cypress Creek promotional video, they eventually agree its a step up from Springfield. So, they abandon their home, leave town and Homer assumes his role at Globex Corporation, a cult-like company, alongside his new unconventional boss Hank, a sandal-wearing evil genius.

While Homer’s story is central to this episode, the secondary storylines are very relevant to this post. Aside from Homer finding a place where he is valued and getting the respect of his family…