Meaning: Jean-Francois Lyotard, a prominent French philosopher, offered this thought-provoking quote that reflects the growing importance of information access in the context of technological advancements. The quote encapsulates the concern about the distribution of information and the potential implications for decision-making processes. In delving into the layers of this quote, it becomes apparent that it touches upon several critical aspects of contemporary society, including the impact of technology, the role of information, and the ethical considerations surrounding access to knowledge.

The phrase "who will have access to the information these machines must have in storage" refers to the ever-expanding capabilities of machines and technology to store vast amounts of data. In the digital age, the proliferation of information has become a defining characteristic of modern society. From personal data to organizational records, the sheer volume of information being generated and stored is unprecedented. This raises questions about who has the right to access and control this wealth of data, and what implications this may have for decision-making processes.

The quote also alludes to the critical role of information in ensuring that "the right decisions are made." In many contexts, decision-making is increasingly reliant on data and information. This is evident in fields such as business, governance, healthcare, and scientific research, where data-driven decision-making has become the norm. The quote suggests that access to the information stored within machines is essential for making informed and "right" decisions. This raises concerns about the potential for information asymmetry and the ethical implications of controlling access to crucial data.

The underlying implication of the quote is that the distribution of information has profound implications for power dynamics and decision-making processes. In a world where access to information is often synonymous with power, the quote prompts us to consider who holds the keys to this knowledge and what their motivations may be. This is particularly pertinent in the context of technological advancements, where the ability to collect, store, and analyze data has the potential to shape industries, policies, and even individual lives.

Moreover, the quote by Lyotard underscores the ethical dimension of information access. As technology continues to advance, questions of privacy, security, and equity in information access become increasingly complex. The quote urges us to critically examine the ethical considerations surrounding the control and dissemination of information. It raises concerns about the potential for information to be weaponized, manipulated, or exploited for ulterior motives, highlighting the need for robust ethical frameworks to govern information access and usage.

In conclusion, Jean-Francois Lyotard's quote encapsulates the multifaceted implications of information access in the context of technological advancement and decision-making. It prompts us to consider the power dynamics, ethical considerations, and societal implications of who controls and has access to the vast stores of information held within machines. As technology continues to evolve, the central question posed in the quote becomes increasingly relevant, challenging us to grapple with the complexities of information access and its impact on the fabric of our society.