Technology for Good

Published: July 12, 2018, 2 p.m.

It's no secret that technology is a huge part of our everyday lives. We use apps and smartphones to track the weather, figure out when the next train is coming, and read up on the latest news from around the world and from our friends and family on social media. Recently, there seems to be something of a negative reaction to the pervasiveness of technology in our lives. Many of us are now questioning if technology is actually good for us. Does technology ultimately lend us tools for good? What are some of the ways that technology is being used for good? True and unambiguous good in the world. Can AI do this? And if so, how? Dr. Vivienne Ming, Founder and Chair of Socos Labs, takes a look at how new technologies are accelerating changes in the medical world. Hear examples of technology that's truly changing lives, inside and outside of hospitals and in the global refugee crisis. Ashton Kutcher, actor, turned tech investor and enthusiast, came to Dreamforce '17 to talk about Thorn, a company he co-founded in 2009. Thorn drives technology innovation to fight trafficking and the sexual exploitation of children and adults. Thorn partners across the tech industry, government, and NGOs, leveraging technology to combat predatory behavior, accelerate victim identification, and protect vulnerable children. Take a listen to how Kutcher is using tech for good. Technology is rapidly changing our future. One of the ways is through the technology users of tomorrow. In the last segment, hear how The Girl Scouts of America are looking ahead to utilize digital tools for their young members around the country. Sylvia Acevedo, CEO of Girl Scouts of America, touches on how the organization is empowering young girls to become technology super users, and to use tech to become the change makers of tomorrow.