Do we want our personal data to be collected? Conference looks at the ethics
Information can be a force for societal good if it is sourced and stored correctly, writes Chris Mccall
International experts will gather in Edinburgh later this month to discuss the ethics of data and how it can be used to make a positive impact on society.
The event on 20 September will be hosted by The Data Lab at the Mcewan Hall and follows on from the second annual Data Fest which took place in the capital in March.
It will raise issues such as how personal data can be collected in a regulated manner without infringing on the rights of individuals.
Rows over how internet giants such as Facebook collect and store data have hit the headlines this year, prompting widespread debate on how protections should be enforced.
Among the speakers are Stephanie Hare, a researcher and broadcaster who regularly appears on BBC Radio 4, who will discuss the growing use of biometric data by governments and the private sector.
“The use of our biometric data – everything from our face to our fingerprints, voice, DNA and even our behaviour online – is happening without our consent and with very few guidelines or understanding of the risks and opportunities it offers,” she said.
Also appearing is Cathy O’neil, an American mathematician and data expert, best known for her book Weapons of Math Destruction, who will examine some of the ethical considerations of using data
She said: “We’re at a critical moment where we must decide as a society whether we even want this most personal data to be collected and used, and if so, with what laws and regulations.”
The Data Lab, the Scottish Government-backed innovation centre which works with academia and industry to grow the data sector, will also reveal details of next year’s Data Fest at the event.
Datafest19 is set to be the biggest yet – engaging thousands of individuals across Scotland as well as encouraging participation from schools and businesses.
Gillian Docherty, chief executive of The Data Lab, added: “With access to top research and data in Scotland, it’s important to constantly look at how we are using that data to ensure our practices are ethical.
“We’re thrilled to host these world class speakers, continuing our commitment to supporting Scotland’s leading data community.”