History

The Sally Ludd Society understands the Luddite perspective but ….modern society embraces technology and the progress it brings. We recognize its potential for improving various aspects of our lives. Technology has transformed many industries, increased efficiency, and connected people in ways never before possible.

While there are certainly concerns and risks associated with technology, such as privacy breaches, cybercrime, and job displacement, it is important to find a balance between embracing innovation and addressing the challenges it presents. This Society focuses on implementing regulations, safeguards, and ethical frameworks to mitigate the negative impacts of technology.

Furthermore, protecting the public from the misuse of technology and addressing its potential negative consequences is indeed crucial. This includes initiatives to strengthen cybersecurity, establish responsible data practices, promote digital literacy and education, and ensure equitable access to technology.

We sanction the approach of working with technology while safeguarding against its harmful aspects. We look to align with the evolving mindset of many societies today. Striking a balance between technological progress and responsible use is an ongoing challenge, and it requires collective efforts from policymakers, industry leaders, and the public to ensure technology serves the greater good while minimizing its negative impacts.

Sally Ludd is the fictional sister of Ned Ludd who was a fictional character and the supposed leader or figurehead of the Luddites, a social movement that emerged in the early 19th century in England. The Luddites were textile workers who protested against the industrialization and automation of their industry, which they believed would result in unemployment and lower wages.

The term "Luddite" is derived from the name Ned Ludd, who was said to be a weaver or a young apprentice who destroyed textile machinery in the late 18th century. However, there is little historical evidence to support the existence of a real person named Ned Ludd. It is more likely that the name was used as a fictional character to represent the collective actions of the Luddites.

The Luddite movement gained momentum in the early 19th century, with workers sabotaging and destroying machinery they believed threatened their livelihoods. The movement was centered in the textile-producing regions of England, particularly Nottinghamshire, Lancashire, and Yorkshire. The Luddites targeted power looms, spinning frames, and other machines that were being introduced into the textile industry.

The British government responded to the Luddite protests with harsh measures, including deploying troops and imposing severe penalties, including death sentences, for those involved in machine-breaking. Over time, the Luddite movement waned, partly due to the government's suppression and the increasing acceptance of industrialization.

The Luddites have since become symbolic figures representing resistance to technological change, particularly in the context of job displacement and the negative effects of automation.

Again, the Sally Ludd Society does not endorse stopping or destroying technology.