How Powerful is BigTech? (Actually)

Event Overview

The story of AI and the cloud is often told as one of progress and possibility. But that might only be one side of the story. Society’s dependence on providers of these key technologies give providers immense power over the world. Dr. Cecilia Rikap, Associate Professor in Economics and Head of Research at UCL’s Institute for Innovation and Public Purpose, has spent years investigating how Amazon, Microsoft, and Google have leveraged their positions as providers in the tech ecosystem to become obtain political sway. Her analysis reveals how big tech corporations use cloud credits, strategic acquisitions, and open-source strategies to create lasting dependencies, turning innovators and even sovereign nations into clients rather than competitors. At this INFLECTION event, Dr. Rikap will share findings from her book, "The Rulers", to explore how technology can be reclaimed for the public good. Join us to engage directly with one of the world's leading researchers on the political economy of technology and challenge how you think about the future of digital power.