Dear Readers,
Join us for an immersive journey into the 12th edition of Chai-Shai Bytes, where we delve into the captivating world of Surveillance and privacy. But beware, as you explore, remember that someone might be watching (Just kidding…). In this edition, we uncover the unsettling reality of police employing AI surveillance, delve into the intriguing ways Tech Giants utilize Google Earth to monitor our surroundings, and discover a glimmer of hope for a brighter future amidst the dark depths of the Blade Runner-like internet. Don't miss out on this thought-provoking exploration of surveillance and the quest for privacy.
3 Across-the-Board Recommendations
- From Moscow to Paris, governments all over the world use the garb of building ‘safe cities’ to imbue the already intrusive surveillance networks with the power of AI. While police control over these systems enables a reduction in crime using predictive policing, it also brings us closer to a ‘Minority Report’ like world. Listen to this insightful discussion between experts from policy, law and education fields and their take on where AI surveillance is heading. | Know It All: AI And Police Surveillance.
- Curious about the future of AI? Don’t miss this interview with leading thinker Rumman Chowdhury. She discusses accountability in AI, “moral outsourcing,” and bridging the gap between people and technology. Chowdhury shares her unique approach to regulation and her belief in the need for “mechanisms of accountability.” She also expresses her concerns about the rise of surveillance capitalism and her belief that ethical surveillance cannot exist. This thought-provoking piece is definitely worth a read for anyone interested in the future of AI and its impact on society. Discover Chowdhury’s insights and ideas on this important topic. | ‘I do not think ethical surveillance can exist’: Rumman Chowdhury on accountability in AI.
- Google is one of the most powerful companies in the world, with a vast array of products and services that touch almost every aspect of our lives. But did you know that Google is also a major government contractor and partner in the fields of defence, intelligence, surveillance and foreign policy? This article explores the complex relationship between Google and the government, examining how Google uses its products and services to gain access to vast amounts of information that it can leverage for profit and power. While some may view this relationship with suspicion, others see it as a necessary partnership in an increasingly interconnected world. This article provides a balanced look at the issue, allowing readers to make up their own minds about Google’s role in society. | Google’s Earth: how the tech giant is helping the state spy on us.
1 Mathematical Concept to Ponder Upon
Discover how mathematics is revolutionizing automated security monitoring in our latest article. Researchers Amato, Kapoor, Srivastava, and Schrater from the University of Minnesota are developing an innovative system that strikes the perfect balance between accuracy and speed. By harnessing mathematical principles, this cutting-edge technology ensures security staff can swiftly respond to genuine intrusions while avoiding false alarms triggered by harmless events like a cat passing by. Learn how this approach enhances detection accuracy, reduces false positives, and elevates overall security posture. Don't miss out—read the full article to delve deeper into this ground-breaking approach. | Mathematics to improve automated security monitoring.
1 Crazy Idea Picking Up Steam
In a captivating debate at the HowTheLightGetsIn festival, renowned philosopher Slavoj Žižek, popular YouTuber Steven Bonnell (Destiny), and spiritual psychologist Lisa Miller engaged in a thought-provoking exploration of "The Game of Life." Hosted by the insightful Myriam François, the trio delved into the profound implications of the increasing gamification of reality, its connection to capitalism, virtual reality, and the very meaning of our existence. Join Ricky Williamson as he delves into the discourse, Apple's foray into the AR/VR domain, Nietzschean perspectives, and the interplay of consciousness, offering a unique viewpoint to help you emerge triumphant in the game of life. | Žižek and the game of life.
1 Tech in Pop-Culture
In this eye-opening article, Peter Pomerantsev paints a grim picture of the internet as a Blade Runner-like nightmare, plagued by misinformation and manipulation. He explores the rise of fake accounts, the distortion of reality, and the challenges they pose to democracy. However, Pomerantsev offers a glimmer of hope, suggesting a reimagined internet that prioritizes accountability and community interests. As we await such transformation, he encourages individuals to navigate the murky depths of the current internet to combat disinformation. | The web is a Blade Runner nightmare, but there is a way to stem the tide of lies .
