I didn't get a "don't pursue certain technologies in order to protect certain industries" vibe from the article. Most here will agree that is futile. There will always be someone willing to take it a step further for another dollar.

The takeaway in the article is to be mindful of our work, and feel (some) responsibility towards the PEOPLE whose lives it will change. The collective "meh" on HN to any person outside the tech industry is disgusting.