Should computer science researchers disclose negative social consequences?

Re:Should computer science researchers disclose negative soc... by onceKnowable on Friday August 03, 2018 @07:40PM (#17684453)

Only if the whole population succumbs to ignorance. Not saying that doesn’t happen, especially in light of stuff like net neutrality and the NSA et al’s data gathering.

But on the whole, the general public will drown out cranks who shout about imagines threats like fluoride or vaccines. The science on both is clear.

Likewise, I’m optimistic that the negative realities of net neutrality stifling startups and the mass data-gathering will become so apparent to future generations of lawmakers & voters that they’ll be reversed in due course.

[ Parent | on HN ]

Re:Should computer science researchers disclose negative soc... by Kalium on Friday August 03, 2018 @09:23PM (#17684873)

It doesn't take the whole population succumbing to ignorance. It just takes a bunch of voters who are uncertain and scared. This happened in Portland, Oregon a few years back when voters were terrified into opposing floridated drinking water.

The science may be clear, but it may be unwise to be too certain that future generations will agree with what you and I believe in today.

[ Parent | on HN ]