Civic Tech 101

Algorithms touch every aspect of our lives, from the movies we're recommended on Netflix to our ability to secure a loan for our first home. When the decisions made by these algorithms are harmful, what can we do about it? More importantly, what should we do about it? Today, we speak with Alex Engler from the Brookings Institute and Georgetown University about unruly algorithms, the role of public institutions in reining them in, and what needs to be done to actually do it. Alex's recent Lawfare article, "The Devil is in the Data," is accessible here: https://www.lawfareblog.com/devil-data. This episode was recorded in early December 2020.

Today we talk with David Boronstein, PhD, about his work in expanding the IRS-990 dataset and what we can learn from it. We also speak about how to use data to inform giving, the limitations of measuring impact, and advice for those looking to get involved.

Today, we speak to Ryan Davis of Main Street One about his work with connecting social media influencers with political campaigns, as well as how social media is affecting the political landscape in America.If you're interested in publishing content for Main Street One, visit https://community.mainstreet.one/join/welcome

How can we apply technology to social problems - for better or worse? Join our team as we interview individuals working in the public and nonprofit sectors to understand how technology is evolving in the civic sphere.