The Equality Machine: Harnessing Digital Technology for a Brighter, More Inclusive Future

We can either criticize big data and automation or steer it to do better. Lobel argues that digital technology has a comparative advantage in detecting discrimination, correcting historical exclusions, subverting stereotypes, and addressing global problems. His examples show how we can harness technology for good.

Format: Hardback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 27 October 2022
Publisher: PublicAffairs,U.S.

Much has been written about the challenges that technology presents to equality and democracy. However, it is important to recognize that we have the power to shape the direction of technological development in accordance with our core values. In his book, "The Age of Surveillance Capitalism," Shoshana Zuboff argues that the rise of big data and automation has led to a concentration of power in the hands of a few large corporations, which can use this data to manipulate and control individuals. While it is true that technology cannot be stopped, we can use it to create a more equitable and democratic society.

One way to do this is by ensuring that technology is designed with ethical principles in mind. This means that developers should consider the impact of their creations on society and work to ensure that they are used for the benefit of all. Additionally, we need to create policies that regulate the use of technology and protect individuals from its negative effects.

Another way to harness technology for good is by using it to address social and economic inequality. For example, digital technology can be used to provide access to education and healthcare for people who are marginalized or excluded from traditional systems. It can also be used to create new job opportunities and promote economic growth.

However, it is important to recognize that technology can also be used to perpetuate harmful stereotypes and discrimination. For example, algorithms used in hiring and dating can perpetuate biases and exclude certain groups of people from opportunities. This is why it is important to have policies in place that ensure that technology is used in a fair and unbiased manner.

In conclusion, much has been written about the challenges that technology presents to equality and democracy. However, we have the power to shape the direction of technological development in accordance with our core values. By ensuring that technology is designed with ethical principles in mind, creating policies that regulate its use, and using it to address social and economic inequality, we can create a more equitable and democratic society.

Weight: 560g
Dimension: 238 x 158 x 38 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781541774759