Meredith Whittaker

Meredith Whittaker is an American tech policy expert and advocate for ethical technology, currently serving as the President of Signal, a nonprofit organization known for its secure messaging app. Before joining Signal, Whittaker co-founded the AI Now Institute at New York University, where she focused on the social implications of artificial intelligence. She has a background in both technology and policy, having worked at Google for over a decade, where she led product and engineering teams and co-founded M-Lab, a global platform for measuring internet performance. Whittaker is recognized for her advocacy in tech ethics, privacy, and workers' rights.

"The risks that I see related to A.I. are that only a handful of corporations have the resources to create these large-scale A.I. systems, and corporations are driven by interest in profit and growth, not necessarily the public good."

Contributions to AI

Meredith Whittaker's contributions to AI are primarily centered around the ethical and societal impacts of AI technologies. At the AI Now Institute, she conducted research on the implications of AI in areas such as labor, bias, and surveillance. Her work has highlighted the need for transparency and accountability in AI systems, advocating for policies that protect individuals from the potential harms of AI. Whittaker has been a vocal critic of the unchecked deployment of AI technologies, emphasizing the importance of considering human rights and ethical standards in AI development.

Philosophy and Vision

Whittaker's philosophy is rooted in the belief that technology should serve the public good and be developed with ethical considerations at the forefront. At Signal, she champions privacy and security, advocating for technologies that protect user data and communications. Her vision includes creating a tech landscape where privacy is a fundamental right, and where companies are held accountable for the societal impacts of their technologies. Whittaker emphasizes the importance of building technology that empowers users and respects their autonomy, pushing for a more equitable and just digital world.

Influence and Public Presence

Meredith Whittaker is a prominent figure in the tech ethics community, known for her advocacy and leadership in promoting responsible technology practices. She has been featured in numerous conferences, panels, and media outlets, where she discusses issues related to AI ethics, privacy, and the role of technology in society. Whittaker's influence extends beyond her role at Signal, as she continues to engage with policymakers, academics, and industry leaders to drive conversations about the ethical implications of technology. Her work has inspired many to consider the broader impacts of AI and digital technologies, making her a key voice in shaping the future of ethical tech development.