tyranny
/ˈtɪrəni/
Definition
The oppressive, restrictive, or limiting control exerted by a large number of items or components.
Etymology
Derived from the Greek 'tyrannos,' meaning an absolute ruler or usurper, the term evolved through Old French into Middle English to describe cruel or unrestrained government. In modern technical contexts, it is used metaphorically to describe any overwhelming or restrictive set of conditions.
In the news
The article uses the phrase 'tyranny of numbers' to describe how the sheer quantity of individual electronic components in early military systems created unmanageable points of failure. This limitation made the invention of the integrated circuit necessary to simplify and improve reliability.
The Integrated Circuit and the Future of AI Leadership
Read the full article ↗War on the Rocks