• Speaker: Denver Gingerich
• Room: CC 235
• Time: Sat 10:30 am – 11:00 am

• Format: Lecture (30 Min + Q&A)
• Difficulty: Introductory
• Track: Security / Privacy
• Additional Tags: Licensing & Governance
• Presenter Location: In-person
• Experience: first time speaking
• At: at lfnw

Computers and the internet once held the promise of neutralizing power structures and giving everyone equal access to knowledge and control over their technology. While some power structures have shifted, new ones have emerged—ones that promote misinformation, centralize control, and prevent people from customizing or improving the devices they rely on.

This talk explores the history of fixing our technology, where we stand today, and what it will take to build a future where individuals can truly adapt their devices to their own needs. It introduces Box Theory, a framework for understanding our devices and what is required to maintain agency in computing.

Along the way, the talk examines how power structures are dismantled and rebuilt through technological change, and how we can collectively temper the swings between different elite factions controlling technology. The goal: to move closer to real freedom and agency for everyday users.

Target Audience:

• beginners
• business and government people
• educators
• end users
• anyone interested in technology agency