Future Politics

Powerful New Tools in the Hands of a Few

Technology is changing the world in profound ways. While many leaders choose to lie low and accept the shifts wrought by technology, it’s important for everyone in a position of responsibility to prepare for the vast sweep of the digital revolution which will transform human society. The tech revolution promises to be every bit as monumental as the industrial revolution, the agricultural revolution or even the development of human language itself. Yet it too often seems that digital tools are being developed with little thought as to their broader impacts on society. Students studying for degrees in science, technology, engineering or math rarely encounter courses on political philosophy or social policy. By the same token, most liberal arts majors lack deep understanding of how technology works.

The tunnel vision surrounding digital development extends to Silicon Valley’s tech firms. Engineers strive to solve specific challenges, but they aren’t asked to examine how their work might affect the world. This failure to consider the widespread implications of tech innovations&#...