The Center for Democracy and Technology recently released a report titled “Technology as Policy: Hidden Rules and How to Reveal Them,” which highlights the importance of understanding the hidden rules that govern technology. The report emphasizes that technology is not neutral and often reflects the biases and values of its creators.
According to the report, these hidden rules can have significant impacts on individuals and societies, shaping how technology is used and who benefits from it. The report calls for greater transparency and accountability in the development and implementation of technology to ensure that it aligns with democratic values and serves the public interest.
One key recommendation from the report is to use tools and methodologies such as algorithmic impact assessments to reveal and evaluate the hidden rules embedded in technology. By scrutinizing these hidden rules, policymakers and stakeholders can better understand the potential impacts of technology on different groups and take steps to mitigate any negative consequences.
The report also warns against the dangers of relying too heavily on technological solutions to complex social and political problems. It emphasizes the need for a human rights-based approach to technology policy, one that prioritizes the protection of individuals’ rights and freedoms.
Overall, the Center for Democracy and Technology’s report serves as a timely reminder of the importance of critically examining the hidden rules that govern technology and ensuring that they align with democratic principles. By shining a light on these hidden rules, policymakers and stakeholders can work towards creating a more equitable and transparent technological landscape that serves the public good.
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