BTW I love my XO. Does everything I want and more (from a blogging device to e-mail reader to internet access on the go) and comes in at thousands less than the other devices I was looking at….

Dirk and Raul: You guys both make some good points. But I do like the optimism inherent in the inspirational plan for the XO-1.

David mentioned to me the other day that youth in developing countries that have received these machines have started making money from fixing them (Evidently, when they do crash, as even high-end computers are wont to do, they are relatively easy to repair). Who knows? Maybe these computers will spur the growth of high-tech skills amongst a small technocratic elite?

Ultimately, if developing countries don’t develop technical skills somehow, they’ll get caught in a permanent cycle of poverty. Perhaps the kids fixing these machines today will become the technological and entrepreneurial leaders in their countries tomorrow.

Thanks for your comments, guys. Let me think on this some more…

After reading this, I think we do agree in a lot of fundamental things. It’s true, as Dirk indicated. Someone has their priorities wrong. What do poor children in developing countries need first? Eat properly or check their email? I mean, I applaud the interest of providing people with opportunities to further their education (that’s I think one good possibility for 100 dollar laptops), but come on, where is the money for sanitation, public health campaigns, etc.

gotta agree with you there.Although I am not conflicted.I think the whole idea is a waste of time.The infighting between Chip manufacturers AMD and Intel on this issue illustrate that its more about business and developing market penetration .
Like please if the world can’t even supply pencils and books and basic education.What possible hope is there for $100 laptops.
2/3 of the world live on 2$ or less, the majority have never made a telephone call.
Nope someone has their priorities mixed up.

I know what you mean about putting the putting the cart before the horse (or in this case, the microchip before the public utilities and waste treatment, clean water, enough food to eat, teachers, hospitals… argh. So much to get, where to start!). I can only hope that access to technology, connections to the Internet (and each other), introductions to the concepts of software programming, media, and other tools can act as a catalyst. Kids need a reason to want to improve their world. While a computer won’t provide this per se, perhaps it’s another piece of the puzzle. I also hope I’ll get the chance to connect with one or more of the kids who are also holding one of these PCs.