Penny Duquenoy

My interest in ethics and IT/Computer Science evolved from a first degree covering philosophy and computer science, followed by a Ph.D. covering both topics which led on to many years as an academic contributing to an emerging field broadly described as computer ethics. During that time I have been an active member, sometimes Chair, of like-minded groups and utilised my academic background in reviewing funding proposals for various funding agencies and participating in technology projects (UK and EU). 

Why I work for JAAG?

Working for JAAG gives me the opportunity to address and redress an imbalance in society created by digital systems that leave citizens powerless to act.  As a student I became aware of the influence technology had on people and consequently its power. My concerns were raised, and formulated, after reading Joseph Weizenbaum (Computer Power and Human Reason, 1976)  and Norbert Wiener (Some Moral and Technical Consequences of Automation, 1960). The power of technology, particularly with AI, is now immense but often hidden.  There is now a power imbalance between institutions utilising digital systems and the people who use them, willingly/unwillingly or unknowingly.