There is long history of science-fiction writers painting correct visions of, at the time seemingly impossible future. Sometimes You don't have to be an expert to notice the trends in certain domains. I'd go even further - it could be easier to notice the big picture without being overly bothered with nitty-gritty technical details - yes, to further the field they are necessary, but to comment the direction the field is heading in and about its implications for society they are not. I don't necessarily agree with the author, I'm just making a general comment.