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FrameLab Podcast

23: The Tech Coup w/ Marietje Schaake

Oct 24, 2024
Marietje Schaake, a former member of the European Parliament and Stanford professor, discusses the alarming trend of tech corporations usurping governmental powers, which threatens democratic values. The conversation highlights the shift from an optimistic view of tech to concerns over monopolistic practices and unregulated influence. Schaake emphasizes the urgent need for comprehensive governance frameworks and accountability measures to align technology with societal values. She warns of technology's dual potential as a tool for empowerment or oppression.
40:50

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Quick takeaways

  • The increasing influence of tech moguls in government poses a serious threat to democracy by outsourcing essential public functions to private corporations.
  • Marietje Schaake's advocacy for transparency and accountability in tech governance highlights essential measures to reclaim democratic control from corporate dominance.

Deep dives

The Rising Power of Tech Moguls

In a potential future shaped by political landscapes, tech moguls like Elon Musk could exert unprecedented influence if Donald Trump wins the 2024 election. Trump's suggestion to appoint Musk to a significant government position underscores the risks of consolidating power among tech executives, particularly as they could manipulate government funding and regulations affecting their businesses. Even in the event of a Trump loss, the rising dependence of government functions on tech companies presents a substantial threat to democracy. The outsourcing of critical government responsibilities to private corporations erodes public authority and hands significant control to a few wealthy individuals.

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