Reimagining the Internet 117. Alondra Nelson, Biden’s Head of Science and Technology Policy, talks AI, Trump’s research funding cuts, and how memes replaced Happy Days
Jul 30, 2025
Alondra Nelson, Harold F. Linder Professor and former deputy assistant to President Biden, dives into the nuances of AI policy and ethics. She discusses the necessity of auditing AI systems to ensure transparency and community involvement. The conversation touches on rethinking governance to prioritize human needs and the importance of diversity in research. Nelson also addresses the intertwined issues of climate change and inequality, urging for responsive science policy. Finally, she highlights journalism's critical role in safeguarding democracy against misinformation.
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Auditing AI as Ongoing Practice
- Auditing AI is an ongoing, dynamic practice essential for governance and responsible deployment of AI systems.
- It requires clarifying goals and accessing necessary data to evaluate if systems function both technically and socially as intended.
Community Role in Auditing AI
- Auditing AI can be adversarial but also collaborative, involving community activists alongside legal experts.
- It should become a normative practice for companies and communities, not just a confrontational tool.
Community Understanding is Vital
- Community organizations must understand AI's capabilities and limits to effectively hold AI systems accountable.
- Empowering communities with AI knowledge fosters responsible oversight and governance.
