Tech for Good

How can technology continue to drive positive progress in our world? Do we need to constrain growth or embrace it in order to improve both the human condition and the state of nature? Technology is the most disruptive force in human history, ushering in a new era of unprecedented health, convenience, and prosperity. At the same time, we acknowledge the potential for peril as we innovate, too. We need to constantly reframe the conversation and mindfully reexamine our tools and our goals, not only asking “What is technology going to do to our economy, society, and environment?” but rather, “What will we do with technology?” By examining this dichotomy, we aim to ensure that innovation drives broad, positive progress in our economy, society, and environment. The Tech for Good research group amplifies the IDE’s ongoing premise that we need faster, more inclusive technology progress and access-- not a slowdown --to meet today’s needs and those of the future. AI, machine learning, automation, reskilling, and retraining are the tools to get there and to create jobs—especially in the post-pandemic economy. Andrew McAfee leads this research group.