The Dark Side of Big Tech

In today's digital landscape, Big Tech companies have become pervasive forces that dominate our online experiences, raising critical ethical concerns about data privacy and surveillance. The emerging phenomenon of surveillance capitalism has transformed personal data into a commodity, often collected without meaningful user consent, while sophisticated algorithms increasingly influence individual behaviors and systematically undermine personal autonomy. Recognizing these profound challenges, experts are urgently calling for robust regulatory frameworks, enhanced transparency, and comprehensive ethical design principles to protect individual rights. Moreover, there is a growing consensus that empowering citizens through improved digital literacy and fostering public engagement are essential strategies in addressing these complex technological dynamics. Ultimately, addressing these issues will require a multi-faceted, collaborative approach that encompasses international cooperation and a shared commitment to preserving democratic values in an increasingly interconnected digital world.

Orestes M. Tzortzis