Sorry, Prometheus

Once upon a time, there was a god named Prometheus. He wanted to share fire with the poor little cold people on earth, because they had none. Zeus said no. Prometheus said yes. Zeus said thunderbolt no. Prometheus took the fire to them anyway. Then they were warm.

But that's not the end of the story. Did I mention Prometheus was grounded by Zeus? Chained to the top of a mountain? Sentenced to have his immortal liver eaten out daily by an eagle? Well, that's what happened.

In "Blown to Bits," one of the books I'm reading for class, it talks about the Prometheus myth, and says "The Promethius myth is about technology. Technology, like fire, is neither good nor bad - its value depends on how we use it. And once we start using a technology, society itself changes. It is never the same again."

It doesn't mention what happened to poor Prometheus for his efforts.

We talk about the importance of "bridging the gap" of the digital divide, so the poor people in far-off countries can have internet and calculators and electronic toothbrushes too. But somehow it is never as easy as it seems. Governments complain, red tape gets in the way, and some people who have the power to help simply don't care.

On the other hand, some people worry that the poor may be happier the way they are. What happens when the people themselves don't like what they're getting? Go to this link to take a look at this modern Prometheus of sorts, who ended up being shot in the heart with an arrow for his efforts, and not by Cupid, either.

http://www.topsecretwriters.com/2012/02/ignoring-reclusive-tribe-no-contact-demand-results-in-bloodshed/

So, bridging the gap for those sunk in the digital divide is a touchy subject, both inside and out. It's not too easy on the trying-to-be-helpful Prometheuses, either, but hopefully good comes of the continued efforts.

Oh, and did I mention that Hercules came and found Prometheus? Or that he broke the chains and set him free? I didn't? Well, he did. And that's the end of the story.

Where's Hercules when you need him?