Journalism alumnus to discuss Big Tech on Nov. 14

Joe Toscano, a former Google consultant and University of Nebraska–Lincoln alumnus, will present “Reporting on Silicon Valley” at 5:30 p.m. Nov. 14 in Andersen Hall, room 15.

The talk will give the audience an insider’s perspective on what Big Tech doesn’t want consumers thinking about: everything from addictions installed on a global scale to the profits being driven by fake news and disinformation to the manipulation of the world for profit and the use of people’s data to train systems that will automate jobs on an unprecedented scale. Toscano will analyze the issues and suggest how government can create proactive, adaptable regulation that satisfies both the needs of consumer safety and commercial success in the international economy.

Toscano, a 2014 graduate of the College of Journalism and Mass Communications, is a former experience design consultant for Google. He has won international awards for his work, including Cannes Lions and Clio awards. He writes for international publications including Smashing Magazine, InVision and Adweek.

Toscano left his Google consulting role in 2017 over ethical concerns. Since then, he has focused on bringing technology literacy to the masses, which has led to speaking and consulting engagements around the world. The events have ranged from lectures in university classrooms to keynote engagements with world leaders to private consultations with some of the world’s leading digital corporations. He has also started the nonprofit Design Good.

Toscano will sign copies of his new book, “Automating Humanity,” which will be for sale at the event.