William Rees-Mogg
William Rees-Mogg was a British journalist, public intellectual, and life peer, best known for his tenure as editor of The Times (1967–1981). He co-authored several futurist books with James Dale Davidson, including The Sovereign Individual, which forecast the decline of nation-states in the digital age. A former vice-chairman of the BBC, Rees-Mogg combined traditional conservative values with a forward-looking perspective on technology and finance. His writings often examined long-term trends in governance, morality, and economics. He was also the father of British politician Jacob Rees-Mogg, and his legacy includes a blend of literary refinement and radical forecasting.
Published in 1997, The Sovereign Individual predicts the rise of the digital age and its impact on individual autonomy and state power. The authors argue that technological advancements, particularly the internet, will diminish the influence of governments and empower individuals to take control of their own lives. They foresee a future where traditional institutions are challenged, and personal sovereignty becomes paramount. This provocative work offers a foresightful analysis of the intersection between technology, economics, and personal freedom.