Tech Won't Save Us
Can Europe End Its Dependence on US Tech? w/ Aline Blankertz
Apr 10, 2025
Aline Blankertz, an economist specializing in digital policy at Rebalance Now and former Wikimedia Germany staff, dives into Europe's struggle to break free from US tech dependence. She discusses the political complexities of achieving digital sovereignty and the push for local alternatives like the Eurostack. The conversation also touches on the intertwining of military interests and tech innovation, raising ethical questions about AI in defense. Ultimately, Blankertz calls for a collaborative, values-driven approach to technology amidst global challenges.
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Quick takeaways
- Europe is increasingly pursuing digital sovereignty to reduce reliance on U.S. tech amidst rising nationalism and military considerations.
- The push for Eurostack reflects a need for ethical technology development, but risks creating European versions of flawed American tech without proper governance.
Deep dives
The Shift Towards Digital Sovereignty in Europe
European countries are increasingly questioning their long-standing dependence on American technology, especially in light of the pressures from the Trump administration. This reevaluation reflects a growing sentiment among political leaders to pursue digital sovereignty, aimed at reducing reliance on U.S. tech. The podcast discusses how this movement is influenced by rising nationalism and military considerations, drawing on discussions about building counterpower framed in military terms. As European countries engage in this shift, they must confront whether their approaches will drive positive change or merely replicate the shortcomings of American tech models.
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