Public interest tech: About

Abstract

Technology is woven into every aspect of our society and holds promise to unlock human potential in ways that seemed impossible mere decades ago. Yet this rapid transformation has far outpaced government services and regulation, legal jurisdiction, public understanding and corporate norms, leaving us all exposed to unchecked harms. Public interest technology (PIT) is a growing field made up of technologists who work to ensure technology is created and used responsibly. These technologists call out where technology can improve for the public good, and sometimes question whether certain technologies should be created at all. Technologists are defined not only as engineers, but also include those individuals and organizations with strong perspectives and expertise on the creation, governance and application of technology—from designers to legal experts to artists, activists, and members of communities where technology is deployed.