Final answer:
Thomas Sowell's quote means that advancements in science and technology do not necessarily make life more intellectually challenging for most people, and can often simplify it.
This can widen the digital divide and knowledge gap, as not everyone has equal access to these advancements, leading to inequality despite a technologically advanced economy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The quote “The march of science and technology does not imply growing intellectual complexity in the lives of most people. It often means the opposite.” by Thomas Sowell suggests that despite the rapid advancement of science and technology, these developments do not necessarily result in an increase in intellectual engagement or complexity for the average person.
In many cases, technology simplifies tasks, limiting the need for deep understanding or skill development in certain areas.
In the context of the provided references, this can be tied to concepts like the digital divide and the knowledge gap, which highlight how not everyone benefits equally from technological advancements. The rapid growth of technology could lead to greater disparities in information access and skills unless deliberate efforts are made to bridge these gaps.
The availability of advanced technology in high-income countries does not always translate to better opportunities for all, as the U.S. economy reflects with its vast numbers of patented innovations and still prevalent inequality.