Silicon Valley once promised to solve many of the world’s problems with a technological revolution. But now, the tech hub is the center of much scrutiny, and for many, that scrutiny is warranted. From privacy violations to flawed business models to a lack of diversity and representation, Silicon Valley has seemingly betrayed its idealism. And though technological progress has notably enriched a few, Silicon Valley has failed to deliver its promise to all. Has the prioritization of profits and conformity of thought corrupted its original “do good” agenda? Proponents argue no: Silicon Valley’s critics are simply overreacting. After all, it is still the center of innovation, and the tech giants have revolutionized the way we think, shop, communicate, and experience our lives for the better. Do big tech’s detractors simply expect too much from lucrative corporations? Or has Silicon Valley lost its soul?
MOTION
Silicon Valley Has Lost Its Soul
FOR THE MOTION
Noam Cohen, Journalist & Author, “The Know-It-Alls” and Dipayan Ghosh, Pozen Fellow, Harvard Kennedy School
AGAINST THE MOTION
Leslie Berlin, Historian, Silicon Valley Archives & Author, “Troublemakers” and Joshua McKenty, Vice President, Pivotal
This special will air on Friday December 7th at 10 AM and 8 PM here on 88.3 FM KCPW.
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