Meaning: Rory Bremner's quote, "If you put garbage in a computer, nothing comes out but garbage. But this garbage, having passed through a very expensive machine, is somehow ennobled and none dare criticize it," reflects on the nature of technology and the perception of output generated by it. The quote humorously touches on a serious aspect of our modern society, where the use of technology often results in an unmerited sense of credibility and authority.

The first part of the quote, "If you put garbage in a computer, nothing comes out but garbage," speaks to the fundamental principle that the quality of input directly influences the quality of output. In the context of computer technology, this highlights the importance of the data and instructions that are fed into a system. No matter how advanced or sophisticated a computer may be, if the input is flawed or irrelevant, the output will inevitably reflect this.

The second part of the quote, "But this garbage, having passed through a very expensive machine, is somehow ennobled and none dare criticize it," delves into the phenomenon where the mere act of processing information through a complex and costly system can confer a sense of legitimacy upon the output. This satirical observation points to the tendency for people to unquestioningly accept and respect information or results that are produced using advanced technology, simply by virtue of the technology itself.

Bremner's quote can be interpreted in various contexts, one of which is the realm of information technology and data processing. In the digital age, there is a widespread belief that information produced by computers is inherently accurate and reliable. However, this quote serves as a cautionary reminder that the integrity and value of the output are contingent upon the quality of the input and the soundness of the processes involved.

Beyond the realm of technology, the quote also has broader implications in relation to the way society perceives and values information. In an era where technology plays an increasingly central role in shaping and disseminating information, there is a tendency to attribute an unwarranted sense of authority and infallibility to outputs generated by advanced systems.

Furthermore, the quote touches on the concept of the "technological fallacy," which refers to the belief that technology is inherently superior and its outputs are beyond reproach. This fallacy can lead to a blind faith in the infallibility of technology, disregarding the critical importance of human judgment, discernment, and ethical considerations in the interpretation and application of technological outputs.

In summary, Rory Bremner's quote serves as a thought-provoking commentary on the relationship between technology, information, and perception. It highlights the need to critically evaluate the quality and reliability of information, regardless of the means by which it is produced. Ultimately, the quote encourages a discerning approach to technology and its outputs, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a critical mindset in the face of technological determinism and the allure of expensive and complex systems.

In conclusion, Bremner's quote prompts us to reconsider our assumptions about the infallibility of technology and the outputs it produces, reminding us that the value of information lies not in the sophistication of the machine that processes it, but in the quality of the input and the critical discernment applied to the output.