Intelligence Squared Fighting Back Against Big Tech, with Rana Foroohar and Ros Urwin
Jan 7, 2020
Rana Foroohar, a global business columnist at FT and author of 'Don't Be Evil', joins journalist Ros Urwin to tackle the dark side of Big Tech. They discuss the exploitation of user data and the monopolistic control tech giants exert over society. Foroohar critiques how companies like Facebook and Google have lost their initial values, while Urwin shares insights on the challenges of regulating these behemoths. They highlight the urgent need for accountability, particularly regarding tech's impact on children’s mental health.
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The Genesis of "Don't Be Evil"
- Rana Foroohar's son racked up $900 in app store charges playing a "free" online soccer game.
- This sparked her investigation into surveillance capitalism and the manipulative tactics of tech companies.
Silicon Valley's Origins
- Silicon Valley's history intertwines with the US Defense Department and the rise of libertarianism.
- This blend created a culture of disruption and disregard for societal consequences.
Google's Shift to Advertising
- Google's founders initially recognized the potential conflict between targeted advertising and user interests.
- However, they adopted this model, leading to their current dominance and potential hubris.
