Futures

Exploring the Ordinary Origins of Surveillance: Insights from Hochman and González’s New Books, (from page 20221002.)

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Summary

Two recent books, “The Listeners: A History of Wiretapping in the United States” by Brian Hochman and “War Virtually: The Quest to Automate Conflict, Militarize Data, and Predict the Future” by Roberto González, explore the evolution and impact of surveillance technologies. Hochman emphasizes the historical context of wiretapping, focusing on ordinary criminals and innovators rather than government agencies, illustrating how surveillance has been integrated into American society since the Civil War. González examines the motivations of individuals in the military and tech industries driving advancements in automated warfare and surveillance. Both authors argue that contemporary surveillance is rooted in mundane practices and societal aspirations, blurring the line between ordinary work and espionage. They highlight a growing political consciousness among tech workers pushing back against militarization and surveillance, acknowledging the urgent need for ethical reflection in the tech industry.

Signals

name description change 10-year driving-force relevancy
Automated Surveillance Normalization Increasing acceptance of surveillance technologies as ordinary tools in everyday life. Shift from viewing surveillance as a violation of privacy to an accepted norm in society. Widespread integration of surveillance into daily life, with minimal public resistance or awareness. Advancements in technology and normalization of surveillance through everyday usage. 4
Political Awakening in Tech Workers Tech workers are increasingly aware of the ethical implications of their work in surveillance and military applications. Transition from passive participation in surveillance to active political engagement and dissent. A more ethically conscious tech workforce that actively resists unethical practices in surveillance and military tech. Growing awareness of the sociopolitical implications of surveillance technology among tech employees. 5
Historical Parallels in Surveillance Recognition of historical patterns in surveillance practices as they evolve with technology. From viewing contemporary surveillance as a new phenomenon to understanding its historical roots and continuity. Public understanding of surveillance as an ongoing issue rather than a novel concern, influencing policy and activism. Scholarly work that connects past and present surveillance practices, fostering a historical perspective. 4
Militarization of Technology The increasing intertwining of civilian technology development with military applications. Shift from purely commercial tech development to a focus on military and surveillance applications. A tech industry heavily influenced by military contracts and surveillance needs, altering the nature of innovation. Government contracts and funding directing technological innovation towards military applications. 4
Dissent Against Militarized Contracts Growing resistance among tech workers against their companies’ contracts with the military and police. From uncritical acceptance of military contracts to organized dissent and demands for ethical practices. A significant portion of tech companies adopting ethical stances against military contracts, reshaping industry norms. Increased awareness of the moral implications of their work and public scrutiny of military partnerships. 5

Concerns

name description relevancy
Automated Surveillance Systems The shift from traditional spying to automated systems raises concerns about accountability and privacy violations. 5
Normalization of Espionage The integration of surveillance into everyday practices may desensitize society to privacy infringements. 4
Militarization of Technology The growing relationship between tech companies and military agencies can lead to ethical dilemmas and loss of human rights. 5
Racial and Economic Inequality Surveillance technologies predominantly target marginalized groups, perpetuating racial and economic injustices. 5
Ethical Blindness in Tech Industries Workers in surveillance and defense sectors may overlook the implications of their contributions to militarized efforts. 4
Resistance and Political Awakening Emerging movements among tech workers against military collaboration may reshape corporate ethical standards in technology. 3
Dystopian Future of Warfare Development of autonomous weapons raises alarm about potential loss of human oversight in military operations. 5
Privacy Erosion As surveillance technology advances, the fundamental right to privacy is increasingly under threat globally. 5

Behaviors

name description relevancy
Automated Surveillance Work Increasing reliance on ordinary professionals like engineers and data analysts for surveillance tasks previously done by spies. 5
Political Awakening in Tech Workers Growing awareness among tech workers about the ethical implications of their work, leading to organized dissent against militarized contracts. 5
Normalization of Surveillance Technologies Acceptance and integration of advanced surveillance technologies into everyday life, often without critical reflection on their implications. 4
Historical Contextualization of Surveillance Revisiting historical precedents of surveillance practices to draw parallels with contemporary issues. 4
Ethical Reflexivity in Technology Development Emergence of critical discussions around the ethical use of technology and its societal impacts among developers and researchers. 4
Militarization of Civilian Technology The trend of civilian technology increasingly being developed for military applications, blurring the lines between civilian and combat technologies. 5
Public Awareness of Surveillance Impact Growing recognition of how surveillance disproportionately affects marginalized communities and impacts civil liberties. 5
Resistance and Activism Against Surveillance Formation of groups and movements advocating for the regulation of surveillance technologies and ethical practices within the tech industry. 5

Technologies

name description relevancy
Automated Surveillance Systems Automated systems replacing secret agents in state-sanctioned surveillance, involving cybersecurity experts and engineers. 5
Biometric Surveillance Technologies Technologies like biometric cameras and algorithms used for monitoring individuals without their consent. 5
Lethal Autonomous Weapons Weapons systems that operate without human intervention, raising ethical and security concerns. 5
Predictive Policing Models Data-driven algorithms that predict criminal behavior based on historical data and social trends. 5
Zero-Click Hacking Tools Spyware that allows access to devices without user interaction, exemplified by the NSO Group’s products. 5
Facial Recognition Technologies Systems that identify individuals based on their facial features, used in surveillance and policing. 5
Cyber Warfare Tools Technologies designed for conducting and defending against attacks in the cyber domain. 5
Social Media Data Mining Analyzing social media data for intelligence purposes, often used in surveillance and policing. 5
Virtual Reality Training Systems Systems used for training military personnel in combat scenarios through immersive environments. 5
Augmented Reality Technologies Technologies that overlay digital information onto the physical world, used in military training and surveillance. 5

Issues

name description relevancy
Rise of Automated Surveillance The shift from human agents to automated systems in state surveillance raises ethical and privacy concerns. 5
Normalization of Espionage The increasing acceptance of surveillance technologies in everyday life blurs the lines between privacy and security. 4
Militarization of Technology The intertwining of technology development with military interests poses risks for democratic governance and civil liberties. 5
Tech Worker Activism Growing dissent among tech workers against militarized applications of their work highlights a shift in ethical considerations in the industry. 4
Impact of Surveillance on Marginalized Communities The disproportionate effects of surveillance technologies on racial and socio-economic minorities raise significant social justice issues. 5
Historical Insights into Surveillance Understanding the historical context of surveillance practices can inform current debates about privacy and state power. 3
Ethical Implications of AI in Warfare The use of AI in military applications raises ethical concerns about accountability and the dehumanization of conflict. 5
Corporate Responsibility in Surveillance Practices The role of corporations in developing surveillance technologies warrants scrutiny regarding their ethical obligations. 4