Meaning: Russell Means, a prominent American Indian activist and member of the Oglala Sioux tribe, made this thought-provoking statement about free markets and the impact of the computer age on information dissemination. In this quote, Means draws attention to the notion that in the modern world, the free flow of information in the computer age represents one of the last true free markets, alongside the remaining free markets where indigenous people still exist. However, he also acknowledges the dwindling nature of these indigenous free markets.

Means' statement underscores the significance of information in the digital era and its resemblance to a free market. In a free market, goods and services are exchanged without government intervention, and similarly, in the realm of information, the internet serves as a platform where ideas, knowledge, and opinions can be freely exchanged without constraints, censorship, or regulation.

The comparison drawn between the free market and the free dissemination of information in the computer age highlights the fundamental principles of autonomy, accessibility, and choice that underpin both concepts. In a free market, individuals have the freedom to buy, sell, and trade based on their preferences, and similarly, the proliferation of information on the internet allows people to access diverse perspectives, engage in open dialogue, and make informed choices.

Means' reference to indigenous free markets draws attention to the traditional practices and economic systems of indigenous communities. These free markets are characterized by the exchange of goods, services, and knowledge within indigenous societies, often based on communal ownership, reciprocity, and sustainability. However, he suggests that these indigenous free markets are increasingly under threat, facing encroachment from external forces, economic globalization, and modernization.

The notion of indigenous free markets as a parallel to the free flow of information in the computer age serves as a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness of traditional wisdom and contemporary knowledge systems. It highlights the value of preserving diverse cultural and economic traditions, as well as the importance of safeguarding indigenous rights to autonomy and self-determination.

Means' observation prompts reflection on the implications of technological advancements and globalization for indigenous communities, raising concerns about the potential erosion of indigenous free markets and the associated loss of cultural heritage, ecological balance, and community cohesion.

Moreover, the quote resonates with broader discussions about the democratization of information and the digital divide. While the internet has expanded access to information and empowered individuals to participate in global discourse, it is essential to recognize the disparities in internet access, digital literacy, and information equity that persist, particularly among marginalized communities, including indigenous populations.

In conclusion, Russell Means' quote encapsulates the profound intersection of free markets, information, and indigenous rights. It underscores the transformative power of the computer age in shaping the dynamics of information exchange while drawing attention to the resilience and fragility of indigenous free markets. By contemplating the implications of his words, we are encouraged to consider the ethical, social, and economic dimensions of information dissemination in the digital era, and to advocate for inclusive and equitable access to knowledge for all individuals, including indigenous communities.