Technologies and tech companies are routinely accused of creating many societal problems. This book exposes these charges as mostly myths, falsehoods, and exaggerations.
Technology Fears and Scapegoats
debunks 40 widespread myths about Big Tech, Big Data, AI, privacy, trust, polarization, automation, and similar fears, while exposing the scapegoating behind these complaints. The result is a balanced and positive view of the societal impact of technology thus far. The book takes readers through the steps and mindset necessary to restore the West's belief in technological progress. Each individual chapter provides a cogent and often controversial rebuttal to a common tech accusation. The resulting text will inspire conversations among tech insiders, policymakers, and the general public alike.
Robert D. Atkinson
is the founder and president of the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF), the world's leading science and technology policy think tank. His previous books include
Big is Beautiful
(The MIT Press, 2018),
Innovation Economics
(Yale, 2012),
Supply-Side Follies
(Rowman Littlefield, 2007), and
The Past and Future of America's Economy
(Edward Elgar, 2005).
David Moschella
is a nonresident senior fellow at ITIF, in charge of its "Defending Digital" project. For more than a decade, Moschella was Head of Worldwide Research for IDC. His previous books include
Seeing Digital
(DXC Technology, 2018),
Customer-Driven IT
(Harvard Business School Press, 2003), and
Waves of Power
(AMACOM, 1997). He has lectured and consulted on technology trends and strategies in more than 30 countries.
