By: Noelle Symanski

Algorithms and artificial intelligence, more specifically machine learning, are technologies that have seen increased use in many professional fields. We use this technology to make Google searches, swipe on online dating profiles, predict stock prices, and even control traffic lights. As algorithms become ubiquitous across fields, these programs have also made their way into the criminal justice system. Law enforcement agencies and courts have begun using technology to drive practices such as suspect identification and sentencing.

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By: Treja Jones

With the average American spending 116 minutes per day scrolling through social media (which amounts to over 5 years of social media use over a lifetime), social networking sites such as Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram have expanded their purpose beyond entertainment and social connection to include uses such as news reporting, marketing, and even shopping. It comes as no surprise that Americans are also turning to social media to get political updates and to support and follow political platforms. This begs the question; what influence has social media had on political participation?

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By: Matthew Jurgensmeier

In the modern economy, data is essential to survive. Whether used to improve products and processes or sold for a profit, data drives companies. While it might be understandable that social media platforms, such as Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and Google, make their money by allowing companies to target users with advertisements, how data is monetized in other contexts may be less clear. Social media and search-based businesses collect user data based on activity both on-and-off site and allow incredibly well-targeted consumer advertising. What consumers may be less aware of is that the information these platforms keep on users could pale in comparison to the data collected by modern vehicles.

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By: Ben Cashdollar

The human genome is, arguably, the single most important piece of information an individual possesses. Yet, in an age where privacy on the internet is under increasing scrutiny, people seem more than willing to part with their genetic information. The simple act of spitting into a collection tube can have far-reaching consequences. Unlike data posted online, which tells a story in retrospect, genetic information is a roadmap for the future. Companies like 23andMe, want to sell you that roadmap. But what happens to your DNA after your sample has been shipped off for analysis? What exactly have you agreed to part with? Appreciating the potential privacy ramifications of “spitting in the tube” first requires an understanding of the science behind genetic testing and how the results of such a test are used.

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By: Noelle Symanski

“Alexa, let my ex see all the things I purchased off Amazon and the list of commands I gave you.” This is not a command that a smart home technology user would be expected to give, but this command may still be a reality for users of these devices. Smart technology is creeping into homes at a steadily growing rate. In fact, 29 million homes in the United States used some type of smart home technology in 2017 and smart home technology is expected to be a $150.6 billion industry by 2023. Amazon, Google, Ring, and Nest all market smart home gadgets to consumers. Smart home technology users can adjust their thermostat, turn off the lights, or check who is at the door without even being home. Gone are the days of wondering whether you forgot to lock your door behind you – just check your app and turn the key from anywhere in the world. Appropriately, Nest’s slogan is “Control your home at a glance.”

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