I agree that the article was annoying, and snotty.
To tell you the truth, I usually have mixed feelings toward "progress." Still, (unlike Tolkien [and also Thor Heyerdahl]) I really love machinery, but on the other hand also really love nature, I spend an awful lot of time either in the woods or on the ocean, I find a connection with something very strong in these places. I'm sorry I missed the conversation, it raises some interesting paradoxes. See you guys on the other side.