Anteaters
A reflection on surveillance, algorithmic judgment, and the quiet machinery of control.
Anteaters
Back to Home
They say we are ants.
Not worth arguing with,
not worth naming.
Just numerous.
AI does not see ants.
It sees patterns.
Pheromones became data.
Trails became networks.
Deviations became intent.
It does not ask where the ant was going,
only whether its path diverged
from the acceptable flow.
And the anteaters—
they do not rule.
They are summoned.
Some wear badges.
Some carry briefs instead of teeth.
No hatred.
No rage.
Just appetite
with authorization.
--Tom Rodgers 2026