Peoples & Things

Aure Schrock, an interdisciplinary technology scholar and editor at Indelible Voice, dives into the evolution of Code for America. The conversation reveals how the organization shifted from a tech-forward vision to providing digital consulting services for local governments. Schrock discusses challenges in integrating technology, the significance of empathetic civic engagement, and the grassroots efforts to enhance community participation. Their insights shed light on the intricate relationship between technology and local politics, all while emphasizing the importance of effective communication and academic writing.

Join Paula Bialski, a digital sociology expert, and Gabriella Coleman, a Harvard anthropology professor, as they dive into the multifaceted world of hacker cultures. They unveil how hacker identities—like black hat and white hat—have evolved and impacted cybersecurity. There's a fascinating discussion on the emotional backlash against poorly written code and the ethics within the hacking community. Plus, hear about the intriguing concept of Critical Mold Studies and its unexpected ties to tech! A compelling exploration of innovation, ethics, and community dynamics.

Joe Forte, a Media Projects Manager with Virginia Tech Publishing, joins Marshall Poe, founder of the New Books Network and former history professor. They discuss the evolution of academic communication through podcasting, emphasizing accessibility and the shift from traditional media to audio formats. Poe shares insights on building a sustainable podcast network and the role of libraries in preserving digital content. The conversation also tackles the challenges facing the industry, including monetization and maintaining diverse voices in the podcasting landscape.

Michael Sacasas, author of The Convivial Society Substack and Executive Director of the Christian Studies Center of Gainesville, dives deep into the philosophical implications of technology on human identity. He challenges binary views of technology as simply good or bad, advocating for a nuanced understanding prioritizing human needs. Sacasas contrasts past internet optimism with today's realities, scrutinizes the moral dimensions of technological advancements, and highlights the importance of personal judgment and cultural values in navigating the digital age.

In this engaging discussion, Joshua Brinkman, an Assistant Teaching Professor at North Carolina State University and author of a new book on American farming culture, delves into the surprising relationship between farmers and technology. He challenges the stereotype of farmers as anti-tech, revealing their pride in innovation. Brinkman also explores how cultural perceptions, like the significance of pickup trucks and the evolving roles of women in agriculture, shape identity. Plus, he connects his academic insights to his passion for jazz, highlighting music's cultural resonance.

Matt Beane, an Assistant Professor of Technology Management at UC Santa Barbara and author of "The Skill Code," dives into the intersection of human abilities and intelligent machines. He discusses how automation impacts skill development and emphasizes the potential risks in mentor-mentee relationships. Beane explores innovative training systems and the nuances of learning in tech-driven workplaces, advocating for collaboration and community engagement to navigate these changes. His insights underline the importance of preserving human skills in an era of growing automation.

Benjamin J. Shestakofsky, an Assistant Professor at the University of Pennsylvania, dives into how venture capital influences work and innovation. He discusses his book, which reveals the pressures VC funding puts on startups to scale rapidly, often at the cost of worker welfare and economic equality. Shestakofsky also explores the complexities of managing remote teams and critiques traditional capitalist structures. He advocates for equitable investment models and highlights the potential of worker cooperatives as alternatives to the existing system.

Anthony Kwame Harrison, a prominent sociology professor and hip-hop culture expert, joins forces with musician Mad Squirrel, co-founder of the Forest Fires Collective. They dive into the nostalgic significance of cassette tapes in hip-hop, exploring how these tapes fostered authenticity and community in the Bay Area scene. The duo shares personal stories about freestyle rap’s artistry, the journey of DIY music creation, and the importance of vulnerability in both performance and ethnography. Their insights celebrate the powerful bond between music and identity.

Salem Elzway, a postdoctoral fellow at USC, and Jason Resnikoff, an assistant professor at the University of Groningen, delve into the history of automation and its multifaceted impact on labor. They explore the misconceptions surrounding automation, emphasizing the need for collaborative research. The discussion spans the historical significance of labor movements, technological optimism, and the interplay between automation and socio-political dynamics. Additionally, they reflect on the evolving nature of work, the impact of unions, and the challenges posed by modern technological advancements.

Meryl Alper, an Associate Professor at Northeastern University and author of *Kids Across the Spectrums*, dives into the experiences of autistic children in today’s digital landscape. She discusses the significance of inclusive media representation and critiques societal stereotypes surrounding autism. Alper advocates for empirical research over anecdotal evidence to better understand diverse experiences. The conversation also explores the role of technology in self-expression and identity formation for autistic individuals while addressing educational reform and online safety.