Recent Press Releases

Thune to Lead Hearing on Tech Companies’ Use of Algorithms and How It Affects What Consumers See Online

“I look forward to convening this important hearing, particularly as Congress continues its work on crafting data privacy legislation.”

June 18, 2019

WASHINGTON — U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), chairman of the Commerce Committee’s Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, Innovation, and the Internet, will convene a hearing titled, “Optimizing for Engagement: Understanding the Use of Persuasive Technology on Internet Platforms,” at 10:00 a.m. ET on Tuesday, June 25, 2019. The hearing will examine how algorithmic decision-making and machine learning on internet platforms influences the public. Witnesses will provide insights on ways companies use technology to influence outcomes and whether algorithm transparency or algorithm explanation are appropriate policy responses.

“This hearing is an important opportunity for members of the subcommittee to gain a better understanding about how internet platforms use persuasive technology, including algorithmic decision-making and machine learning, to affect how people consume digital content,” said Thune. “I look forward to convening this important hearing, particularly as Congress continues its work on crafting data privacy legislation.”

Witnesses:

  • Mr. Tristan Harris, co-founder and executive director, Center for Humane Technology
  • Ms. Rashida Richardson, director of policy research, AI Now Institute
  • Ms. Maggie Stanphill, director, Google user experience, Google, Inc.
  • Dr. Stephen Wolfram, founder and chief executive officer, Wolfram Research

*Witness list subject to change

Hearing Details: 

Tuesday, June 25, 2019

10:00 a.m. ET

Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, Innovation, and the Internet

Witness testimony, opening statements, and a live video of the hearing will be available on www.commerce.senate.gov.

 

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