MozFest 2022

The Metaverse vs the Publicservice internet
Language: English (mozilla)

This is a open discussion about the public values of new technologies like the potential of a Metaverse.
Do they serve a greater purpose or only benefit the privileged few?

They say Technology is neutral, through this discussion we will put this to the test.

Starting with a overview of the BBC's public service internet work-stream before a discussion with guests and people participating about different technologies. We will mark each one between 0-10 for their potential to support marginalization communities and elevate unheard voices in a non-exploitative sustainable manor.


What is the goal and/or outcome of your session?:

The goal is to evaluate emerging technology coming into our way.
Understand its benefits and its problems, helping to shape the technology.
We would like people to apply a critical lens and look beyond the shiny nature of emerging technology.

Why did you choose that space? How does your session align with the space description?:

A lot of technology is about power, the power to aid or to disarm.
We are seeing more calls for ethics to be core in new technologies but seeing abuses in the way they are deployed. The Metaverse is a great example of this, with so much potential to empower people to tell stories how they can really connect with each other. However the land grab for this space is self-evident with even Facebook claiming it as there own. You could argue a type of digital colonization, something which works against the public.

How will you deal with varying numbers of participants in your session? What if 30 participants attend? What if there are 3?:

At low numbers it works well, at higher numbers we will have a system of raising hands and a moderator to keep things on track.

What happens after MozFest? We're hoping that many efforts and discussions will continue after MozFest. Share any ideas you already have for how to continue the work from your session.:

We would like to turn this into a regular bi-monthly podcast deeply diving into some of the emerging technology trends. By exploring how the technology serve a public remit not just shareholders.

What language would you like to host your session in?:

English