Why we should be optimistic about our digital futures

Many people in the West are pessimistic about the effects of digital technology on our lives. In their view, algorithms are increasing social inequality, loneliness, and AI is undermining democracy. The digital is not to be trusted. But people in the Global South seem to have a totally different perspective. Gen Z-ers find these new technologies uplifting and powerful and are trying to reimagine digital space for pleasure, protest, and progressive politics. Award winning author and digital anthropologist Professor Payal Arora shows why and how countries such as Brazil, China and India are at the forefront of technological innovation and why that matters for anyone who is looking to take a global and outward approach to digital design and outreach. With the majority of young people living in the Global South regions, she will share how their creative approach can make us more hopeful about our digital futures.