Future Knowledge

Join U.S. Government Information Librarian James R. Jacobs, his brother James A. Jacobs, a seasoned data services librarian, and Shari Laster, head of Open Collections Curation at ASU, as they delve into the critical importance of preserving government information. They discuss the challenges of safeguarding digital records in a rapidly changing landscape. Highlighting the roles of transparency and accessibility, they emphasize how gaps threaten democracy and propose collaborative solutions to ensure vital public records remain intact for future generations.

Arthur der Weduwen, a historian and postdoctoral fellow at St. Andrew's, joins writer and historian Abby Smith Rumsey to dive into the captivating journey of libraries. They discuss how libraries have evolved from ancient archives to digital platforms and their role in society. The duo explores the paradox of war, revealing how conflict often fuels a revival of reading. They emphasize the enduring value of libraries amid challenges like censorship and digitalization, advocating for the preservation of these cultural beacons for future generations.

Erin Malone, a leading professor in Interaction Design at California College of the Arts and author of 'In Through the Side Door,' joins designer Abby Covert for an enlightening chat. They dive into the overlooked legacy of women pioneers in user experience and interaction design. From the early days of desktop computers to today’s digital era, Malone highlights their crucial but often hidden contributions. The conversation also tackles the ongoing fight for equity in tech and the challenges of documenting these influential narratives.

Stephen Wyber, Director for External Affairs at IFLA, and Dave Hansen, Executive Director of Authors Alliance, delve into the pressing issue of digital rights for memory institutions. They discuss the 'Our Future Memory' campaign, highlighting the need for libraries and archives to advocate for legal protections in the digital landscape. The conversation covers the challenges faced by these institutions due to strict copyright laws, the importance of fair access to knowledge, and how community advocacy plays a crucial role in preserving our digital heritage.

Brewster Kahle, founder of the Internet Archive, and Ian Milligan, a history professor and author, dive into the urgent need for preserving digital content. They discuss the evolution of the internet, from open access to corporate control, and the crucial role of digital librarians in maintaining historical records. The conversation highlights Canada's potential in leading internet preservation and AI development. They also explore decentralized technologies as a means to create a more inclusive digital space, emphasizing the importance of accessibility for marginalized voices.

Cory Doctorow, a science fiction author and activist, dives into his latest work, The Internet Con, advocating for user empowerment against Big Tech's grip. He discusses the toxic cycle of 'inshittification' that erodes platform quality and freedom. Doctorow emphasizes the pressing necessity of antitrust reforms, particularly in light of Google’s reliance on acquisitions. He argues for collective action over individualism to tackle systemic challenges, including monopoly capitalism. It's a call to reshape the digital landscape for all users.

Join musicologist John Brackett and Grateful Dead scholar David Gans as they explore the cultural significance of live recordings. John discusses how live tapes, both official and fan-made, shaped the band's legacy and audience authenticity. He highlights key moments like the challenges of capturing live energy in studio, the rise of bootleg culture, and the evolution of the Dead's archival strategy. With insights from his book, Live Dead, this conversation delves into the transformative power of the 'live' experience in music.

Tim Hwang, General Counsel and Senior Fellow at the Foundation for American Innovation, and Joshua Levine, Research Fellow at the same foundation, dive into the intricate relationship between copyright, AI, and global power dynamics. They discuss how AI's training data challenges copyright law and the implications for fair use. The conversation addresses China’s strategic data access laws and the risks of U.S. litigation on AI development. They also explore the potential for local AI solutions and the balance between innovation and licensing that could shape the industry.

Historian Peter Baldwin, a UCLA professor and author of The Copyright Wars, joins copyright scholar Pamela Samuelson to delve into 300 years of copyright conflicts. They explore the evolution of copyright laws, contrasting European and U.S. practices, and discuss the implications of Google Books and DMCA safe harbors. The conversation also touches on open access challenges in academia, the complexities of digital lending, and the evolving role of libraries in a digital landscape. A fascinating journey through the battles over intellectual property!

Launching in June 2025, Future Knowledge explores the intersection of technology, culture, and information policy with leading authors, scholars, and experts. From copyright and open access to AI and digital preservation, we discuss the big issues shaping knowledge and creativity in the digital age. This podcast is brought to you by the Internet Archive and Authors Alliance.