Issues

Shining a Light on Dark Patterns

Some user interfaces include “dark patterns” that exploit cognitive bias to manipulate users. Two experiments show that subtle dark patterns are more dangerous, because consumers are less likely to reject them.

Digital Addiction

A study of smartphone use shows that consumers’ excessive use of smartphones and social media may result from digital addiction. Self-control tools reduce usage and improve well-being.

Atlas of AI: Power, Politics, and the Planetary Costs of Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) relies on natural resources, low-cost labor, and data. The production of AI technology harms the environment. AI systems rely on low-wage workers.

Legal Internalism in Modern Histories of Copyright

Process concerns, including formal registration requirements and the rule of law, are important to copyright lawyers and policymakers. Recent histories of copyright law neglect these procedural elements.

Harming Competition and Consumers under the Guise of Protecting Privacy: An Analysis of Apple’s iOS 14 Policy Updates

Apple’s iOS 14 update claims to protect privacy by requiring consumers to opt in to allow data sharing by third-party apps. But this unfairly advantages Apple’s own products.

Cybersecurity Hiring in Response to Data Breaches

Data on firm-level hiring shows that firms increase hiring of cybersecurity workers following data breaches, particularly when the press covers the breach.

Cross-Country Trends in Affective Polarization

Political polarization in several countries, including the United States, is increasing. Key factors include increasing polarization among elite political party members and the spread of cable news services.

Cross-Platform Disinformation Campaigns: Lessons Learned and Next Steps

Disinformation campaigns use misleading information to discredit a political adversary. Opponents of a humanitarian group operating in Syria use Twitter and YouTube to discredit the group.

The Welfare Effects of Social Media

Observers are increasingly aware of the negative effects of social media, including political polarization. This study shows that deactivation of social media reduces political polarization and increases happiness.

The Connected Parent: An Expert Guide to Parenting in a Digital World

Parents should engage positively with children in addressing issues with digital media, and keep an open mind about positive aspects of digital culture.