Davos 2019 - Technology: A Common Good? | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

As technology becomes increasingly concentrated, questions arise about whether it should be treated as a public good and how it can be reclaimed for the benefit of the common people.

Key Insights

• 🥺 The concentration of power in the technology industry has led to the exploitation and commodification of the Commons.
• ♿ The internet, once a symbol of free access to information, is now controlled by a few dominant corporations.
• 🧚 Urgent action is needed to reclaim the Commons and establish fair and inclusive systems.
• 😒 Sovereign wealth funds and levies on commercial use of the Commons can provide a means to redistribute wealth and value.
• ❓ The combination of blockchain technology and other fourth industrial revolution technologies can create a more transparent and inclusive ecosystem.
• 🤨 Awareness about the exploitation of the Commons needs to be raised to mobilize public demand for change.
• 👮 Antitrust laws and regulations must be enforced to prevent monopolistic behaviors in the technology industry.

Transcript

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Questions & Answers

Q: How can the Commons be reclaimed from the control of big tech companies?

One proposed solution is the establishment of sovereign wealth funds, funded by levies on the commercial use of the Commons, such as carbon taxes. Dividends from the funds can then be distributed to the public for social and ecological investments.

Q: Can blockchain technology provide a solution to the issue of control and commodification of the Commons?

Blockchain, when combined with other fourth industrial revolution technologies, has the potential to create a more inclusive and transparent ecosystem. It can enable individuals to monetize their data and ensure fair distribution of value.

Q: How can awareness about the exploitation of the Commons be raised among the general public?

It is crucial to educate people about the extent of rent extraction by big tech companies and the importance of the Commons. By understanding how their data is being used and the negative consequences of manipulation, people can demand change and take action.

Q: What role can antitrust laws play in protecting the Commons?

Antitrust laws need to be enforced more effectively to prevent monopolistic behaviors and ensure fair competition. This will require a shift in the regulatory mindset and the willingness to address the concentration of power in the technology industry.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The internet, once a utopian dream of free information for all, is now dominated by a few giant corporations that control and commodify the knowledge Commons.

• The knowledge Commons, including information, intellectual property, and education, has been systematically plundered by big tech companies, resulting in the concentration of power and spread of addiction.

• The current system of rentier capitalism, in which corporations exploit the Commons for their own gains, is leading to economic and social inequalities.