Decoder with Nilay Patel Recode Decode: Former Secretary of Defense Ash Carter
May 13, 2019
Ash Carter, former Secretary of Defense under Obama, now at Harvard's Belfer Center, discusses the pressing issues of tech regulation and ethics. He explores the balance between government oversight and innovation, debating the impact of regulations like CDA Section 230. The conversation highlights concerns about AI in warfare, privacy laws, and the ethical challenges facing tech companies in partnerships with defense sectors. Carter also touches on the influence of social media on journalism and the need for accountability among tech giants.
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Social Media's Power Consolidation
- Social media platforms, initially promising openness and tolerance, have concentrated power in the hands of a few.
- This resulted in an unregulated public square owned by private billionaires with little incentive to govern.
Regulation of Social Media
- Explore diverse regulatory approaches like CDA 230 revision, antitrust regulations, and alternative business models.
- Don't limit antitrust to breakups; consider channeling or diversification, especially for natural monopolies.
Policy Recommendations
- Establish a strong national privacy law exceeding California's.
- Address online discrimination and harmful speech through legislation.