Dr Katina Michael, an associate professor at the University of Wollongong, specialises in the socio-ethical implications of emerging technologies or ‘uberveillence’.
uberveillance (say “oohbuhvayluhns”) noun. an omnipresent electronic surveillance facilitated by technology that makes it possible to embed surveillance devices in the human body. (Term conceived by Dr. MG Michael)
"RFID microchips are essentially a unique ID embedded in your body, and, as we know, numbers can be stolen and data can be hacked. Bringing one's external computer problems into the human body is fraught with dangers “she says. “They point to an uber-surveillance society that is big brother on the inside looking out. Governments or large corporations would have the ability to track people's actions and movements, categorise them into different socio-economic, political, racial, religious or consumer groups and ultimately even control them." (Source: Sydney Morning Herald 2014)
Michael worries about people being forced or coerced into having one, something she says is likely to have already happened.
Michael spoke at the 2012 TEDxU Wollongong on the moral and ethical dilemmas of emerging technologies.
Dr Katrina Michael will be speaking at Mind Shift as part of the Blender Festival in Wollongong on Friday 2nd October.
Mind Shift is a single-day forum to challenge perceptions, experts and the obvious in a Q&A setting.
Each of the Q&A sessions will feature a panel of four industry experts from the tech, music and arts spheres. These sessions will put the audience on the front foot with interactive digital initiatives and a playfully-delivered verdict.
Mind Shift tackles some serious topics, but welcomes the sublime and quirky. These sessions are an integral part of the festival and the aim of this event is to help pollinate ideas throughout the community in the hope of building relationships and opening up opportunities for those attending.
IMB Bank is proud to sponsor the Mind Shift event. Head to the Blender Festival website to grab your tickets.
Tickets - Students / Pensioners $10, Adults $25, VIP (front row seats, snack box) $35 + booking fee