The discussion situates recent attacks on tech leaders and infrastructure within a broader and expected escalation of anti-technology violence. These acts are driven by the belief that technology poses an existential threat to humanity and the environment. Drawing on his book Stop the Machines, Lubrano traces the evolution of anti-technology thought from material concerns (e.g., job loss) to philosophical critiques, and ultimately to today’s extremist view of technology as a “mega-machine.”
The episode concludes by reflecting on the fact that anti-technology extremism is most visible in Europe and North America but has global dimensions. Lubrano argues that effectively countering this trend requires engaging seriously with non-violent activists and addressing their concerns, while clearly isolating and condemning extremist violence. Ignoring or dismissing public fears about technology, he warns, may ultimately fuel the very dynamics that lead to radicalization.
Mauro Lubrano is a Lecturer in International Relations in the Department of Politics, Languages and International Studies at the University of Bath. His research focuses on political violence and terrorism, with particular attention to the relationship between technology and political violence, as well as innovation processes within terrorist organisations. His work has been published in leading academic journals, including Terrorism & Political Violence, Studies in Conflict & Terrorism, and Perspectives on Terrorism. He holds a PhD in International Relations from the Handa Centre for the Study of Terrorism and Political Violence at the University of St Andrews. His first book, Stop the Machines: The Rise of Anti-Technology Extremism (Polity, 2025), explores the origins and evolution of anti-technology extremism, assessing its potential to emerge as a major driver of political violence.
