Change your profile picture to clippy. I'm serious

About this Video

• Video Title: Change your profile picture to clippy. I'm serious
• Channel: Louis Rossmann
• Speakers: Louis Rossmann
• Duration: 00:07:52

Introduction

This video is a call to action. Louis Rossmann argues that modern software companies engage in unethical practices, such as data mining, ransomware tactics, and subscription models that restrict ownership. He proposes a symbolic protest: changing profile pictures to Clippy, the Microsoft Office assistant, to demonstrate collective resistance against these practices.

Key Takeaways

• Modern software company practices are predatory: Rossmann criticizes companies for prioritizing profit over customer rights, citing examples like data mining user information for AI training, implementing ransomware-like tactics, and enforcing restrictive subscription models.
• Clippy as a symbol of resistance: He suggests changing profile pictures to Clippy as a symbolic act of defiance against these anti-consumer practices. Clippy, despite being annoying, represented a simpler time where software was purchased outright and didn't aggressively collect user data.
• Cultural change as the goal: Rossmann's aim isn't solely to win legislative battles but to effect cultural change, raising awareness about these practices and fostering a collective pushback.
• Individual actions matter: He encourages viewers to participate in small acts of resistance, such as subtly sabotaging company practices whenever possible, to show their dissatisfaction.
• The Clippy movement: The call to use Clippy as a profile picture is intended to raise awareness and demonstrate solidarity against corporate practices.