On Wednesday, 20th November 2024, we welcomed Dr Tony Roberts from the Institute of Development Studies for the final talk in our Global Experience of Algorithmic Governance Seminar Series.
Despite freezing temperatures, the much anticipated talk generated a great amount of interest and Dr Roberts addressed a room full of interested listeners with two important questions: What interests do algorithms serve? Is algorithmic colonisation inevitable?
Big Tech companies have overtaken oil and financial corporations as the most influential entities on the planet. Apple, Amazon, Alphabet (Google), Meta, and Microsoft operate digital platforms driven by algorithms and AI designed to seize our attention. They dominate the flow of public information, shaping beliefs and behaviours across the globe, while harvesting data and wealth for Silicon Valley billionaires. Amid this algorithmic domination, what choices remain for individual autonomy and governmental oversight? Is an alternative technology feasible?
The talk culminated in a lively Q&A session, followed by drinks, snacks and friendly chats.
