My Body, My Pixels: A Deep Dive on Digital Autonomy with Todd Zywicki, Professor of Law at George Mason University
Nov 20, 2023
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Law professor Todd Zywicki joins Joel Beasley on a special episode to discuss digital autonomy and the concept of the control layer. They explore the challenges of content moderation, the need for a control layer for screens, and the implementation of better parental controls. They also emphasize the importance of involving experts in technology and policy in discussions on consumer privacy and internet regulation.
The podcast discusses the lack of control individuals have over the content displayed on their screens and proposes the concept of a control layer to enable customization of the content.
The podcast highlights the need for consumer protection regarding screens, advocating for a control layer that allows users to filter harmful or inappropriate content.
Deep dives
The Challenge of Controlling What Appears on Screens
In today's digitized age, we rely on screens for information, communication, work, and entertainment. However, we often lack control over what is displayed on our screens. The podcast explores the idea of a control layer that would allow individuals to filter and customize the content they see. The host shares personal experiences of finding inappropriate content for his children even on supposedly kid-friendly platforms. He questions the extent of ownership and control users have over their devices and the content displayed on them.
The Complexities of Ownership and Legal Rights
The podcast delves into the issue of ownership and legal rights surrounding screens and digital content. While users may physically own their devices, they typically have limited control over the content that is broadcast through them. Users are mostly bound by licensing terms and agreements that dictate how the content can be used. The discussion highlights the confusion and challenges of determining who owns the content that is displayed on screens.
The Impact on Mental Health and Consumer Protection
The podcast emphasizes the impact of screens on mental health and the need for consumer protection. The host raises concerns about the negative effects of excessive screen time on mental well-being and advocates for a control layer that enables users to filter out content that may be harmful or inappropriate. The current system of notice and consent is criticized as ineffective in protecting consumers, and the podcast suggests the need for a new approach to consumer protection that considers the overwhelming information we are constantly exposed to.
Exploring Solutions and Standards for Screen Control
The podcast explores potential solutions to allow individuals to have more control over their screens. The idea of a control layer that sits on top of all screen outputs is discussed, enabling users to set their own rules and preferences for the content they view. The challenge lies in finding a balance between protecting individuals' rights and ensuring that businesses can still operate. The podcast suggests the need for minimum standards and easy-to-use controls that can be tailored to individuals' preferences.
Today we’re bringing you a special episode focused on digital autonomy and Joel’s thought experiment that he has called the Control Layer. We’re joined by Todd Zywicki, renowned Professor of Law at George Mason University, to help us unpack all the legality surrounding what we truly own on our screens, and where this digitized age is heading next.
All of this right here, right now, on the Modern CTO Podcast!
For more about Todd, visit his Wikipedia page here.