An essential element underpinning modern societies is the inventions born out of innovative and creative actions fueled by people’s desire to question and improve the current state. While inventions are often seen as solutions developed after encountering a problem, they actually arise from a deeper motivation: dissent.

Cem Boyner’s famous phrase, “99 is trash,” could succinctly encapsulate this idea.

But what exactly does “99 is trash” mean? 🤔

When people dissent instead of accepting the status quo, they can initiate real transformations. However, dissenting isn’t just about recognizing problems; it’s also taking a step towards solving them. Consider the temperature of water, for instance. At 90 degrees, it’s hot, burning when touched. At 95 degrees, it worsens, 98 is disastrous, and 99 is utterly useless. Yet, increase it by just one degree, and the steam can power a locomotive. Here, we see how a mere one-degree difference can yield significant results. 95 may be trash, but striving to make 99 into 100 initiates real change.

Another example is the invention of the lightbulb, which replaced candles once used for illumination. People protested against candles because they were searching for a better solution. This dissent ultimately led to the discovery of the lightbulb, a more effective and efficient source of illumination. Therefore, finding a better candle didn’t invent the lightbulb; it was dissent against the candle that led to the invention of the lightbulb. These examples demonstrate that inventions and innovations often stem from dissent.

As Cem Boyner pointed out in his speech at the Brand Conference, a child who doesn’t dissent against their father cannot assert their rights as an adult.

Similarly, societies cannot make real progress unless they dissent against the current state. Inventions are a result of questioning the status quo and seeking something better, making dissent the driving force behind innovations and progress. Throughout history, dissent against the present condition and the desire to seek solutions for a better future have been the keys to humanity’s technological and social evolution.

In conclusion, the relationship between inventions and dissent is profound and reciprocal. When people question the status quo and dissent, real change begins. These dissents pave the way for new ideas and solutions, thereby propelling societies forward. Thus, inventions and innovations are a natural consequence of dissent, forming the foundation of humanity’s progress.