Protecting Civil Rights and Democracy from Big Tech's 'Worse Angels' (ft. author Tom Kemp

So today we’re going to be hearing from Tom Kemp, a prominent tech policy advisor and CEO based in Silicon Valley. He's set to release his compelling book, "Containing Big Tech: How to Protect Our Civil Rights, Economy, and Democracy," which masterfully intertwines the dangers posed by the Big Tech industry. From the alarming overcollection and weaponization of our sensitive data to the problematic use of AI in processing and acting upon our information, Tom leaves no stone unturned in shedding light on the critical issues arising from Big Tech's dominant market position.Having played an instrumental role as a technology policy advisor for political campaigns and advocacy groups, Tom Kemp was at the forefront of promoting the passage of the California Privacy Rights Act (CPRA) and co-authoring bills like the California Delete Act of 2023. His expertise in cybersecurity and privacy has garnered widespread recognition, making him a sought-after interviewee on these subjects.During our interview, we delved into the inspiration behind his book, his unique perspective influenced by years of experience in Silicon Valley, and the evolution of the digital surveillance-based business model that has become so pervasive. Kemp also illuminated the shadowy world of data brokers and their significant impact on privacy concerns.But it's not just about highlighting problems; Kemp offers actionable solutions. He provided key recommendations from his book to combat the challenges posed by Big Tech and discussed the essential role individuals can play in containing Big Tech's excesses in their everyday lives.Overall, I think you’ll  gain valuable insights into the pressing challenges posed by Big Tech and some ways forward that just might safeguard our rights and democracy, which seems like a good thing to do, no? So let’s jump right in!