The Sunday Show

California is buzzing with tech legislation, as Governor Newsom faces a deadline on 19 bills affecting AI and safety. The complexities of SB 1047 highlight challenges educators face with rapid AI advancements. A focus on deep fakes reveals how new laws aim to protect public figures while addressing ethical AI use. The conversation underscores a delicate balance between innovation and the need for accountability, with California's pioneering moves likely influencing other states in the ongoing battle for effective tech regulation.

Dr. Shannon McGregor, an associate professor at UNC, and Dr. Jonathan Corpus Ong, a global digital media expert, delve into the complex role of technology in elections. They discuss how civil society can combat misinformation and highlight accountability issues across various nations. The conversation also touches on the dual nature of social media, the impact of generative AI on electoral processes, and the importance of equitable access to resources. Additionally, they explore public trust in technology and the implications of disinformation tactics targeting public health.

Renée DiResta, a board member at Tech Policy Press and author of "Invisible Rulers," shares her insights on technology's role in shaping misinformation, especially as the 2024 elections approach. She explores the evolution of propaganda in the digital age and the confusion surrounding COVID-19 experts. DiResta discusses the complexities of social media and the urgent need for better content moderation. Her passion shines through as she addresses the challenges institutions face in combating misinformation and navigating today’s meme-driven political landscape.

The billionaire owner of the social media platform X, Elon Musk, has been in a prolonged dispute with a Supreme Court Judge in Brazil regarding X’s content moderation practices. Earlier this year, Judge Alexandre de Moraes launched an investigation into X after Musk defied a court order to block accounts that supported former right-wing president Jair Bolsonaro and were accused of spreading misinformation and hate speech.On Friday afternoon, August 30, following a standoff over an order requiring X to appoint a new legal representative in Brazil, the Judge issued an order to suspend X in the country. Justin Hendrix spoke to three people following the situation closely in Brazil: Laís Martins, a journalist at the The Intercept in Brazil; Sérgio Spagnuolo, executive director & founder of the data-driven tech news organization Nucleo Journalism; and Dr. Ivar Alberto Hartmann, an associate professor at the Insper Institute of Education and Research in Brazil.

Justin Hendrix speaks with Mark Surman, President of Mozilla, about Mozilla’s work promoting open source AI, the importance of competition in the tech sector, and the regulatory challenges facing the industry. Surman discusses Mozilla's initiatives in AI investment and development, and reflects on what the recent ruling the Google search cases might mean for the future of Mozilla and the tech economy. And, Surman shares his hopes for the future- that we can arrive at a tech economy that is not purely extractive, but rather one that respects people’s values and dignity. 

A recent ruling from the Ninth Circuit Court sheds light on the legal tussles surrounding California's Age-Appropriate Design Code Act. Discussions reveal tensions between child safety measures and First Amendment rights. Experts explore the complexities of tech regulations by comparing them to food safety laws. The podcast dives into how design choices impact children’s safety online and debates if regulations should be based on tangible harms or subjective experiences. It also highlights the evolving responsibilities of digital platforms in safeguarding users.

Raúl Torrez, the 32nd Attorney General of New Mexico, is challenging Meta for allegedly failing to protect children from online dangers. He discusses the serious implications of social media on youth safety, citing troubling exploitation and predatory behavior. The conversation delves into the New Mexico Unfair Practices Act and the discrepancies between Meta's claims and their practices. Torrez emphasizes the importance of legal action in pushing for better online protections and the need for transparency from tech companies to enhance child safety.

David Rand, a professor at MIT with expertise in Management Science and Cognitive Sciences, dives into the fascinating intersection of AI and conspiracy beliefs. He discusses his research on how dialogues with AI can reduce belief in conspiracies, even showing long-lasting effects. Rand highlights how important personalized interactions are and addresses the ethical challenges of using AI in this context. The conversation also touches on connecting punk rock culture to misinformation and the nuances of discussing deeply held beliefs.

Rebecca Rand, a journalist and audio producer, dives into the vital yet often overlooked world of data workers. She discusses the harsh realities these individuals face in content moderation and AI training, emphasizing the emotional toll of their work. Rand highlights the Data Workers' Inquiry initiative which empowers these workers to share their stories. The conversation sheds light on the need for recognition, mental health support, and advocates for a labor movement that challenges misconceptions about the data workforce.

In the past week, multiple Silicon Valley billionaires announced endorsements of former President and 2024 Republican nominee Donald Trump. To dig a bit deeper into their motivations to support Trump and his new running mate, Ohio Senator and former venture capitalist J.D. Vance, Justin Hendrix invited on three sharp observers of politics and technology, including:Henry Farrell, a professor of the international affairs and democracy at Johns Hopkins University and the recent co-author with Abraham Newman of Underground Empire: How America Weaponized the World Economy.Elizabeth Spiers, a writer and digital strategist and contributing writer for the New York Times, and co-host the Slate Money Podcast.Dave Karpf, an associate professor at George Washington University in the School of Media and Public Affairs.