Harvard's Zuboff on the Dangers of 'Surveillance Capitalism'

The video explains surveillance capitalism, an economic model where companies use personal data to predict and influence behavior, primarily for advertising. Originating with Google, it has spread across industries, raising concerns about privacy and democracy. The video argues for new democratic institutions and laws to ensure the digital age aligns with democratic values, drawing parallels to the industrial age's evolution of rights and protections.

What is the primary way surveillance capitalism generates revenue?

• By providing free online content

• By selling predictions of behavior

• By offering subscription services

• By selling physical products

Which industries are affected by surveillance capitalism?

• Only the tech industry

• Only the retail industry

• Only the financial sector

• All industries, including health and education

How do companies use the knowledge gained from surveillance capitalism?

• To target and manipulate behavior

• To enhance product quality

• To reduce operational costs

• To improve customer service

What is a potential political use of surveillance capitalism?

• To develop educational programs

• To enhance public transportation

• To create new social media platforms

• To influence political campaigns

What is the main challenge posed by surveillance capitalism according to the speaker?

• Lack of technological innovation

• Concentration of power in unelected companies

• High operational costs

• Limited access to data

What historical period does the speaker compare the current digital age to?

• The Middle Ages

• The Renaissance

• The Industrial Age

• The Enlightenment

What does the speaker suggest is necessary to make the digital century safe for democracy?

• Fewer regulations on data use

• More technological advancements

• Increased corporate profits

• New charters of rights and democratic institutions