To the Point
Can Big Data Prevent Crime?
Tech companies claim that analyzing big data can predict crime and help to prevent it. That sounds like science fiction, but police agencies around the country are buying into it — with federal assistance. Critics say it's science fiction after all — with the risk of violating civil rights and eroding public confidence. Is it making law enforcement more efficient and more effective or reinforcing the biases that are leading to the erosion of public trust?
By Warren Olney • • 52m ListenTech companies claim that analyzing big data can predict crime and help to prevent it. That sounds like science fiction, but police agencies around the country are buying into it — with federal assistance. Critics say it's science fiction after all — with the risk of violating civil rights and eroding public confidence. Is it making law enforcement more efficient and more effective or reinforcing the biases that are leading to the erosion of public trust?
Later on the program, will the GOP presidential nomination be decided in "smoke-filled rooms?"
Photo: Cory Doctorow
In this episode
3 storiesWhy Dow and DuPont Decided to Merge
Dow and DuPont have announced the biggest merger plan in the history of the chemical industry. As a measure of their role in the economy, the new combine would then split into three new companies focused on agriculture, plastics and so-called "specialty chemicals."
Read the story7 minCan Big Data Prevent Crime?
Every cop and sheriff's deputy dreams of the day that law enforcement can stop crimes rather than solving them after the fact. Now many are buying programs from tech companies like Hitachi and IBM which claim that analyzing big data can predict crime before it happens.
Read the story35 minGOP Preparing for a Contested Convention?
Today's Washington Post reports that Republican power brokers are preparing for a nominating convention from out of the past. That news has presidential candidates Trump and Carson threatening to leave the party.
Read the story8 min
