Author and satirist Marc-Uwe Kling has expressed considerable concern and frustration regarding the growing influence of technology billionaires, highlighting potential risks to democratic systems and global stability. In an interview with Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland, Kling stated, “I am super angry” referring to what he perceives as a fundamental problem posed by the concentration of extreme wealth and power in the technology sector.
Kling specifically criticized the role of figures like Elon Musk and his ownership of X (formerly Twitter), citing its contribution to societal polarization. He cautioned that the alliance of these technology leaders with figures like Donald Trump represents a significant challenge for Europe. Furthermore, he voiced alarm about the risks associated with the escalating race to develop artificial intelligence, suggesting it threatens the long-term survival of humanity.
While not advocating for boycotts of platforms like X or Amazon, Kling urged a more critical examination of media landscapes and current dependencies on a few dominant, often foreign-owned, platforms. He promoted the adoption of a “plus-one strategy” encouraging private citizens, public institutions and organizations ranging from cultural institutions to universities and public broadcasters to explore alternative networks. He specifically highlighted the potential of the Fediverse and platforms like Mastodon.
Kling’s recent collaborative comic album, co-created with Bernd Kissel, satirizes the Mars-related activities of Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos, a project inspired by the ambitions of these billionaires to explore beyond Earth. He remarked on the implications of their endeavors, questioning the desire of the world’s wealthiest individuals to potentially abandon the planet.