The Principal-Agent Problem: Can Big Tech Ever Truly Put Users First?

The Brave Technologist

Can Big Tech ever truly put users first? In this solo episode, join Luke Mulks, VP of Business Operations at Brave Software, as he dissects the so-called Principal-Agent Problem: the ubiquitous issue where the priorities of tech giants overshadow the needs of users. He’ll also dive into the essence of user-first design in software development, especially in Web browsers and search engines.

Key Takeaways:

• How Brave’s opt-in advertising model both respects user privacy and empowers users to earn revenue

• The deceptive nature of dark patterns and the importance of transparent, user-friendly features

• They history of web monetization, from the early days of site-specific control to today’s all-encompassing tracking by ad tech giants like Google and Facebook

• Why you can’t have freedom without privacy

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About this Show:

The Brave Technologist is here to shed light on the opportunities and challenges of emerging tech. To make it digestible, less scary, and more approachable for all!

Join us as we embark on a mission to demystify artificial intelligence, challenge the status quo, and empower everyday people to embrace the digital revolution. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a curious mind, or an industry professional, this podcast invites you to join the conversation and explore the future of AI together.

The Brave Technologist Podcast is hosted by Luke Mulks, VP Business Operations at Brave Software—makers of the privacy-respecting Brave browser and Search engine, and now powering AI everywhere with the Brave Search API.

Music by: Ari Dvorin

Produced by: Sam Laliberte