In episode nine of the “Synthetic Minds, podcast, we explore the complex relationship between digital rights, privacy, and technology with Cory Doctorow, a renowned science fiction author and digital rights activist. Doctorow delves into how privacy, once a fundamental right, has become a commodity in the digital age, traded by tech giants for profit. He discusses the growing influence of AI-driven surveillance and the erosion of privacy laws, which has left individuals vulnerable to exploitation. Doctorow also examines the consequences of platform dominance, where companies like Google and Amazon gradually degrade their services to maximize profits. This conversation is crucial for businesses that rely on these platforms, highlighting the risks of dependency and the need for diversification and innovation. Finally, Doctorow shares how science fiction serves as a powerful tool for imagining alternative futures and challenging the status quo. His insights encourage businesses to embrace forward-thinking strategies that anticipate and adapt to future challenges. Tune in to this thought-provoking episode to gain valuable insights on navigating the digital landscape and safeguarding your organization’s future in an increasingly tech-driven world. About Cory Doctorow: Cory Doctorow (craphound.com) is a science fiction author, activist and journalist. He is the author of many books, most recently THE BEZZLE (a followup to RED TEAM BLUES) and THE LOST CAUSE, a solarpunk science fiction novel of hope amidst the climate emergency. His most recent nonfiction book is THE INTERNET CON: HOW TO SEIZE THE MEANS OF COMPUTATION, a Big Tech disassembly manual. Other recent books include RED TEAM BLUES, a science fiction crime thriller; CHOKEPOINT CAPITALISM, nonfiction about monopoly and creative labor markets; the LITTLE BROTHER series for young adults; IN REAL LIFE, a graphic novel; and the picture book POESY THE MONSTER SLAYER. In 2020, he was inducted into the Canadian Science Fiction and Fantasy Hall of Fame. You can listen to the podcast on your favourite podcast platform or on TheDigitalSpeaker.com: https://www.thedigitalspeaker.com/podcasts-the-synthetic-minds-podcast/