Major technology corporations like Amazon, Apple, Alphabet, Meta, and Microsoft have become integral parts of various facets of our daily existence—including healthcare, education, and political spheres. Given their persistent evasion of regulatory oversight, an important query emerges: how do we ensure accountability among these influential entities?
Alexandra Schwinges explored the function of news media in this aspect and asserts that in our current digital era, journalism needs to revitalize its role as a monitor. Schwinges will present her doctoral dissertation on Friday, May 9th, at the University of Amsterdam.
Major tech companies are progressively positioning themselves as essential service providers within our society. Due to their strong lobbying influence and global presence, governing bodies find it challenging to enforce effective regulations upon them. This situation has created what’s referred to as an ‘accountability gap’—a widening rift between the actual impact these corporations have on societies and the extent of legal supervision they face.
For quite a while, experts have voiced these worries, yet I think it was just recently that we started to fully grasp the extent of Big Tech’s influence,” states Schwinges. “The prominent appearance of major tech company leaders at Donald Trump’s inauguration along with Elon Musk being appointed to the U.S. government triggered a considerable change in how we collectively perceive this issue.
Schwinges explored the extent to which, and the ways in which, news media hold Big Tech to account. She examined how journalists, lobbyists, and the general public perceive the media’s watchdog function and analyzed how Big Tech is covered in the news.
Although the general populace has significant expectations for the media’s oversight function, beliefs that these expectations go unfulfilled correlate with diminished faith in journalistic integrity. Media professionals recognize this duty but highlight various obstacles they encounter, such as reliance on authoritative informants, the intricacy of the topics at hand, and editorial directives.
Schwinges points out, “It’s challenging for reporters. Many aren’t technology specialists but must quickly develop those skills to perform their oversight duties properly. Additionally, they have to understand various policy matters.”
She noted that news about Big Tech tends to be influenced more by recent developments than by an ongoing critique. “While discussions and criticisms do occur, they typically happen within limited spheres like those centered around Brussels. As for the general public, they remain mostly out of this conversation and have to figure out modern digital life on their own,” explains Schwinges.
Technology firms excel at controlling the conversation by presenting themselves as protectors of the common good—a reputation that boosts their position and sway in public discussions. They define their societal function through what’s known as a “social license to operate,” typically highlighting the ways they serve local populations. These corporations further assume an air of technical expertise, implying that having smartphones or internet access should be considered fundamental rights. Reporters often reinforce this perspective, thus cementing the view of major tech entities as essential contributors to social welfare.
Schwinger’s research highlights the critical necessity for journalists to revitalize their role as monitors of power through more rigorous and accountable reporting. This renewed approach is essential for maintaining the credibility of the press as the “fourth estate.” Schwinger advocates for what she terms a ‘software upgrade’ within journalism, emphasizing an increased focus on data-driven storytelling techniques.
Furthermore, Schwinges promotes increased international cooperation amongst media organizations. He states, “Typically, most news entities function within their respective countries, whereas major tech companies span every market worldwide. It’s crucial for journalists to unite—not only with each other but also with scholars and government officials. Collectively, they must work together to protect fundamental democratic principles such as openness and responsibility in this age where technology wields immense influence.”
More information:
Alexandra Schwinges: Keeping Big Tech Accountable. The Press’s Vigilant Role in the Digital Era.
Furnished by the University of Amsterdam
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