The Tech Policy Press Podcast

Lauren Goode, a senior correspondent at Wired, dives deep into the aftermath of Charlie Kirk’s assassination and how tech platforms are responding. The conversation illuminates the chaos of content moderation in the face of rapidly spreading, graphic videos. Goode discusses the political and financial pressures influencing these platforms as they grapple with misinformation and user-generated content. She also explores the troubling role of AI in amplifying false narratives, questioning the responsibility tech companies have in maintaining accuracy during crises.

In this engaging discussion, Steven Renderos, Executive Director of MediaJustice, and Vivek Bharathan from the No Desert Data Center Coalition, dive into the explosive growth of data centers and the rising community resistance against them. They explore the environmental and social ramifications of these facilities and detail grassroots efforts in Tucson to oppose a controversial project. Their insights reveal the power of local activism, the importance of coalition-building, and the critical need for accountability in the tech industry as communities fight back against corporate dominance.

Vaishnavi J, founder of Vyanams Strategies and a former safety leader at Meta, Twitter, and Google, joins the discussion on centering youth in tech policy. The conversation navigates the complex balance between child safety and privacy in digital spaces. They scrutinize current age verification methods and advocate for informed policymaking that incorporates young voices. Vaishnavi emphasizes the need to understand and respect children’s developmental needs, ensuring technology supports their safety and creativity.

Petter Törnberg, an assistant professor in computational social science at the University of Amsterdam and co-author of 'Seeing Like a Platform,' dives into the intricate ties between technology, politics, and social structures. He discusses how mathematical simulations can illuminate complex social systems and critiques outdated mechanistic views of society. Törnberg highlights the dual impact of digital technology, emphasizing its role in both empowerment and inequality, while examining the interaction of AI with democracy and the urgent need for structured frameworks.

Jesse Paul, a political reporter and editor for The Colorado Sun, dives into the heated debates surrounding Colorado's groundbreaking AI Act. He discusses the lobbying battle between industry groups and consumer advocates, revealing how intense negotiations have shaped the law's future. The state's decision to delay the law's implementation from February to June highlights the ongoing conflicts between tech interests and consumer protections. This landmark legislation could set a precedent for AI regulation nationwide, underscoring the complexities of maintaining a balanced approach.

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.