What's been troubling me is how many "civil society" and "digital rights" orgs have popped up with no intention of opposing top-down abuse, surveillance and control, but instead are interested in brokering legitimacy for it. Many outfits under "tech policy" I've come across are merely attempting to figure out how to make control sound palpable for the public, and formalized in institutions.
My hope, is that some of the long-standing institutions that are still doing good work (EFF & FSF, etc) gain supporters among those who want to oppose more than just corporate surveillance, and start to represent them better. Regardless, I would encourage anyone to get involved locally not just to advocate for better digital rights, but more importantly to build independent infrastructure.
I think this is overwhelming for so many people. If there are legit orgs that are pushing back against this that would be good. Not as good as citizens simply organizing as such, en masses to stand up about it.
What's been troubling me is how many "civil society" and "digital rights" orgs have popped up with no intention of opposing top-down abuse, surveillance and control, but instead are interested in brokering legitimacy for it. Many outfits under "tech policy" I've come across are merely attempting to figure out how to make control sound palpable for the public, and formalized in institutions.
My hope, is that some of the long-standing institutions that are still doing good work (EFF & FSF, etc) gain supporters among those who want to oppose more than just corporate surveillance, and start to represent them better. Regardless, I would encourage anyone to get involved locally not just to advocate for better digital rights, but more importantly to build independent infrastructure.
I agree; though not surprising, given that most of these organizations are on the CIA's payroll these days - or have been for quite a while.
I think this is overwhelming for so many people. If there are legit orgs that are pushing back against this that would be good. Not as good as citizens simply organizing as such, en masses to stand up about it.
Covid was the warm up.
This will separate the brainwashed compliant sheeple from the rams.
Thank you for the essay - it is important to be informed!