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Debbie Reynolds, “The Data Diva,” talks to David Evan Harris, Chancellor's Public Scholar, University of California, Berkeley, Business Insider AI 100. Debbie Reynolds, “The Data Diva,” talks to David Evan Harris, Chancellor's Public Scholar, University of California, Berkeley, Business Insider AI 100. We discuss civic engagement, election integrity, responsible AI, and governance, and Harris brings a wealth of experience and insight to our conversation. 

Throughout the episode, Harris delves into the profound implications of AI technology on democratic processes, particularly its impact on elections. He underscores the urgent need for legislative frameworks to mitigate the risks of AI manipulation and preserve the integrity of democratic institutions. Drawing from his experiences, Harris advocates for robust privacy protections, positioning privacy as a fundamental right in the digital age. He emphasizes the importance of transparent privacy settings and user consent mechanisms to empower individuals and safeguard their personal data from exploitation. 

Beyond his advocacy for privacy rights, Harris explores the ethical responsibilities of technology companies in developing and deploying AI systems. He challenges the industry to prioritize ethical considerations and accountability, urging policies that ensure technology serves societal good while respecting individual freedoms. Harris shares insights from his engagements in public policy, highlighting efforts in California and Brussels to strengthen regulations around AI, privacy, and social media rights. 

Throughout the conversation, Harris' reflections are punctuated by notable quotes that encapsulate his stance on data privacy and ethical AI practices. He stresses, "AI companies shouldn't see the world's data as theirs for the taking. Privacy should be a right, and consent and compensation should be key principles in data usage." Harris also questions the status quo of privacy settings, advocating for defaults prioritizing user privacy and clear, accessible explanations of data practices. 

This episode offers profound insights and thought-provoking discussions for listeners interested in the evolving landscape of AI ethics, the impact of technology on democracy, and the future of data privacy. Harris' expertise and advocacy provide a compelling narrative on the complexities of AI governance and the imperative to balance technological advancement with ethical considerations. He also shares his hope for Data Privacy in the future. 

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