Learning from Martin Luther About Technological Disruption
Five hundred years ago, Martin Luther used the printing press to spur debate on the Church's practice of "indulgences." The fact his efforts kicked off one of the most divisive periods of European history should serve as a reminder that while technology can support constructive debate, it can also fuel violent conflict.
GENEVA – Five hundred years ago this week, a little-known priest and university lecturer in theology did something unremarkable for his time: he nailed a petition to a door, demanding an academic debate on the Catholic Church’s practice of selling “indulgences” – promises that the buyer or a relative would spend less time in purgatory after they died.