California Spotlight: Tech Authoritarianism

As a hub of technological innovation, California is increasingly grappling with complex questions surrounding the influence of technology on society and governance. The rise of powerful tech entities and the rapid advancement of digital technologies are giving way to new forms of control, raising concerns about tech authoritarianism and its impact on democratic processes and communities.

Presented as part of the Social Science Matrix California Spotlight series, this panel will bring together experts to delve into the manifestations of tech authoritarianism, with a particular focus on its emergence and implications within California. Our panelists will explore how certain technological advancements and their proponents are reshaping societal structures, potentially undermining democratic frameworks, and extending their influence across various sectors. The discussion will connect these local dynamics to broader, global trends.

The panel will feature Elijah Baucom, Lecturer in the UC Berkeley School of Information and Director of the Cybersecurity Clinic; Finn Brunton, Professor of Science and Technology Studies at UC Davis; and Lee Crandall, PhD Candidate in Geography at UC Berkeley. James Holston, Professor of Anthropology at UC Berkeley and Director of the Social Apps Lab, will moderate.

Register at weblink