Digital Democracy: Moving Beyond ‘Big Tech’ to Save Open Societies
The Great Simplification #169 with Audrey Tang
As the world is increasingly shaped by the dominance of ‘Big Tech’ – including the race for Artificial Intelligence – the outsized impact on our democratic and information systems has left many with fears and confusion about the path forward. But what if we could use technology as a tool that helps preserve the values of democracy and increases civic engagement, rather than eroding them? Furthermore, what sorts of people, projects, and policies are already paving the way?
Today I’m joined by Taiwanese Digital Ambassador at large, Audrey Tang, to explore real-world examples of how technology is being leveraged globally to address – and in some cases reverse – critical societal challenges, such as polarization, misinformation, and the erosion of trust in governments and institutions. Tang emphasizes the importance of digital democracy, civic engagement, and incentivizing care in our policy making decisions to create a better experience and world for all humans.
Is it possible to use social media as a tool that unifies citizens across polarized societies? How could technology be used to amplify the voices of citizens and influence policy making with human and planetary well-being in mind? And finally, even as technological corporations continue to consolidate power, what options are available to individuals who want to engage with technology in new and empowering ways?
In case you missed it…
Over the weekend, I was joined by Art Berman, Michael Every, and
for a broad exploration of the complex relationship between energy, geopolitics, and economic strategy. Together, we provided valuable insights into the consequences of deindustrialization, the impact of military spending, and the urgent need to reassess strategies as resources dwindle and geopolitical tensions rise.If you appreciate The Great Simplification podcast…
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Audrey Tang blew me away in this conversation. The mix of insight, practical experience and values is one I haven't come across before. Can't recommend this episode more!
This was one of the best episodes! Interesting conversation, the guest was progressive and seemed to have good values. But most important gave information that empowered with new ways of organizing democracy.