To the Point
The big dangers of Big Tech: Is it too late for regulation?
Big Tech is a benefit to the modern world. But unlimited data collection may lead to unlimited power. The cost already includes invasion of privacy, political manipulation, terrorism and possible tyranny.
By Warren Olney • • 57m ListenFacebook--a startup less than 25 years ago-- has 2.3 billion users around the world. And it’s just one of very few Big Tech titans--whose massive data bases make them the Earth’s most valuable companies. Information is power, and Mark Zuckerberg now admits that their power has been abused. Can they be expected to limit themselves? Do the federal and state governments have the power to enact and enforce new rules? Should the Big Tech “monopolies” be broken up as Democratic candidates for president are now demanding?
Warren Olney
former KCRW broadcaster
Andrea Brody
Senior Producer, KCRW's Life Examined and To the Point podcast
Siva Vaidhyanathan
Author; Robertson professor of Media Studies; director, Center for Media and Citizenship, University of Virginia.
Cameron F. Kerry
Distinguished visiting fellow at the Brookings Institution. He previously served as general counsel and acting secretary of the U.S. Department of Commerce.