I am a digital immigrant. So the writing from Verbeek comes off a bit like an Alfred Hitchcock film. Our world is changing and our technology is changing faster than most societies can keep up with. So how do we mediate this exponential growth between the elements of our society?
Markets:
There will have to be tight regulations in place on markets. Markets exist to make money. Personal information, that is gleaned by technology, is invaluable to the markets they represent. Health care preferences, entertainment preferences etc.
Businesses:
Markets and businesses go hand in hand. It will take legislation to protect consumers in order to facilitate the legitimate practice of a company while raising barriers against illegitimate practices. Corporations already enjoy a massive amount of influence here in the US. They have more say in elections (through uncontrolled lobbying powers) as well as more say in what and how information is shared. Many enjoy the protections of a utility without functioning as a utility. Perhaps we need a new Technology Utility commission to protects the interests of Americans. The corporations are global and beyond the concerns of individual markets.
Groups:
Maybe all groups should come with a disclaimer before we are exposed to their opinions or positions. If you research most groups you will find that their online profile is much like a dating profile. Its all prettied up but will most likely cat fish you into oblivion. Take white supremacy sites for example, most present a thoughtful and nonaggressive approach, but in reality they can be some of the most violent actors in our society. They are an extreme example but most groups fall into this category in some shape or fashion. Words are pretty but actions matter.
Individuals:
We need some type of drug to make people hate smart devices. Do you know how lonely a dinner can be for a digital immigrant? Everyone’s head down in a smart device and the only one making eye contact is the family dog who smells your steak. Yes its quite tragic! But seriously, people need to start being defensive about their privacy. From cell phone tracking, marketing software in everything and social media linking everyone and everything, its just dangerous out there.
Conclusion:
Humor aside, if we as individuals wish to maintain and have control over our lives, we will have to start being proactive. Technology is a sweet mistress. She will tempt you with the world, lets make sure its one of our choosing.