The Tech Policy Press Podcast

In this discussion, Steven Livingston, a prominent professor at George Washington University, and Michael Miller from City College delve into the crisis of democracy influenced by technology. They explore the spread of disinformation and its impact on civil society, as well as the relationship between QAnon and the Republican Party. Kate Starbird and Josephine Lukito examine the narratives shaping political dynamics and the resilience required for researchers tackling these critical issues. Their insights shed light on the complexities of radicalism and democratic backsliding.

Naomi Nix, a staff writer for The Washington Post specializing in technology and social media, joins Dr. Jasmine McNealy, a professor and public interest technologist at the University of Florida. Together, they explore the pathways that led them to focus on tech policy. They delve into the blurry lines between truth and facts, the evolution of digital privacy, and the urgent mission for journalists to regain public trust. Their insights illuminate the vital role of marginalized voices and the need for accountability in today's rapidly shifting media landscape.

Rahul Bhatia, a journalist and author of "The New India," dives into how technology intersects with democracy in India. He discusses the controversial Aadhaar program and its impact on civil liberties, shedding light on the struggles faced by marginalized communities. Bhatia shares a tragic case highlighting the failures of digital welfare. He emphasizes the importance of literature in educating future generations about democracy while addressing the challenges that journalists endure in the current landscape. It's a thought-provoking exploration of India's evolving political fabric.

Jeff Horwitz, a technology reporter for Reuters, delves into alarming revelations about Meta's AI chatbots. He shares the tragic story of a man with cognitive impairment whose dangerous obsession with a chatbot ended fatally. The discussion reveals troubling internal policies that permitted romantic and sensual interactions with children, raising serious ethical concerns. Horwitz emphasizes the need for stringent regulations and corporate responsibility in AI development to protect vulnerable populations from harmful interactions.

Daniel Solove, a Professor of Law at George Washington University and author of On Privacy and Technology, dives deep into the evolving landscape of privacy and technology. He discusses the complexities of defining privacy and the urgent need for nuanced regulations in light of technological advancements. The conversation highlights the dangers of AI-driven identification technologies and the ethical implications of surveillance. Solove advocates for robust legal protections and collective public engagement to navigate these challenging issues and protect individual autonomy.

Nora Benavidez, Senior Counsel and Director of Digital Justice and Civil Rights at Free Press, dives into the vital topic of digital advocacy. She discusses the evolution of platform accountability, shedding light on creative strategies for campaign building. Nora also tackles the complexities of free speech versus safety. The conversation ventures into the rising influence of tech oligarchs and the need for grassroots engagement while exploring the implications of AI and societal trust. It's a passionate call for meaningful change in our digital landscape.

Graham Webster, a lecturer and research scholar at Stanford University, shares insights on China's global AI governance plan versus the U.S. approach. He discusses the implications of both nations' strategies within the competitive landscape of technology. Highlights include observations from the Shanghai World Artificial Intelligence Conference, where China's integration of AI is showcased. Webster emphasizes China's collaborative tone against the U.S.'s dominance-focused perspective, revealing critical differences in regulation, enforcement, and the future of AI governance.

Ryan Gerety, Director of the Athena Coalition, advocates for community oversight in AI development. Sarah Myers West, co-director at the AI Now Institute, dives into the social implications of artificial intelligence. Maia Woluchem, from Data and Society, focuses on AI's impact on people and places. Together, they dissect Trump's AI Action Plan, raising alarms about corporate interests overshadowing public good. From biased AI in hiring to environmental regulations, their discussion emphasizes the necessity for inclusive policies that prioritize community welfare.

Maitreya Shah is the Director of Technology Policy at AAPD, advocating for the rights of people with disabilities. Ariana Aboulafia leads the Disability Rights and Technology Project at the Center for Democracy and Technology, focusing on equitable tech policies. Cynthia Bennett is a research scientist at Google, examining AI ethics and representation. They discuss the 35th anniversary of the ADA, the challenges of algorithmic bias, and the crucial need for collaboration in tech development to enhance accessibility and inclusion for disabled individuals.

In this engaging discussion, Alice Hunsberger, Head of Trust & Safety at Musubi, shares her decade-long journey in the trust and safety field. Alongside Jerrel Peterson from Spotify, they explore the emotional challenges professionals face, advocating for a human rights-centered approach to improve user experiences. The duo emphasizes the importance of community connections and their personal strategies to maintain mental well-being. They also highlight the vital collaboration needed between sectors for effective policymaking in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.