The Tech Policy Press Podcast

Join John Wihbey, an associate professor at Northeastern University and author of Governing Babel, as he navigates the complex landscape of platform governance and free expression. He discusses the implications of social media's role in societal crises, especially in light of January 2021 events. Wihbey explores the challenges posed by AI on shared reality and emphasizes the need for structured forums for dialogue and clearer regulations. His insights into global perspectives on free speech and the role of platforms highlight the urgent need for coherent governance.

Maddy Dwyer, a policy analyst at the Center for Democracy & Technology, and Ben Green, an assistant professor at the University of Michigan, discuss state-level efficiency initiatives inspired by the federal DOGE. They dive into how AI is intended to identify inefficiencies but raise concerns about transparency, privacy, and potential misuse. Both emphasize the need for a problem-first approach and caution against using AI as an excuse for austerity. The conversation highlights red flags in AI implementation and the critical importance of guidelines.

In this engaging discussion, Cristiano Lima-Strong, an associate editor at Tech Policy Press, dives into California's pivotal battle over two significant bills on AI companions. He reveals how consumer advocates and tech industry groups are embroiled in a fierce lobbying war, with hundreds of thousands in play. Lima-Strong breaks down the contrasting approaches of the proposed bills, highlights the imbalance in lobbying resources, and explores California's potential to set national standards, while considering the governor's crucial role in the decision-making process.

Join Alix Dunn, Founder and CEO of The Maybe, Holly Alpine, Co-founder of the Enabled Emissions Campaign, and Tamara Kneese, Director at Data & Society, as they tackle the intersection of technology and climate for Climate Week. They delve into how AI and data centers exacerbate fossil fuel dependency while evaluating the narrative around tech's environmental impact. The conversation highlights the urgent need for accountability from tech firms and offers actionable steps for listeners to engage in the climate tech dialogue.

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.