10.95 Globalization, Technology, and Economic Integration Worksheet

In the town of Bluefield Heights, residents are arguing about whether to require government agencies to keep a public log explaining major algorithmic decisions. Nora Murphy, the parks director, argues that the town of Bluefield Heights should require government agencies to keep a public log explaining major algorithmic decisions. First, written explanations make systems accountable. In a survey of 483 residents, 66% supported the proposal. Next, a log helps residents appeal errors with evidence. Aiden Shaw, the transit planner, said, "This matters because a log helps residents appeal errors with evidence." The author concedes that no policy is perfect, but insists that refusing to act is also a choice with costs. In other words, the community should steer the wheel before the road forces a crash. Small policies can shape big habits, and this one is worth adopting.

At Winding River Heights University, a committee is considering whether to create a policy that allows gene-editing research funding only with public ethics review. Caleb Scott, the student government chair, argues that Winding River Heights University should create a policy that allows gene-editing research funding only with public ethics review. First, public review builds trust in powerful science. In a survey of 446 residents, 55% supported the proposal. Next, clear boundaries reduce the chance of misuse. June Sanchez, the professor, said, "This matters because clear boundaries reduce the chance of misuse." The author concedes that no policy is perfect, but insists that refusing to act is also a choice with costs. In other words, the community should steer the wheel before the road forces a crash. This is a practical step, not a slogan, and it is within reach.

In the town of Southridge Heights, residents are arguing about whether to restrict gambling advertisements near schools and youth sports. Leah Brown, the fire chief, argues that the town of Southridge Heights should restrict gambling advertisements near schools and youth sports. First, ads normalize risky behavior for teens. In a survey of 409 residents, 87% supported the proposal. Next, distance limits still allow legal ads to reach adults. Sam Morris, the public health officer, said, "This matters because distance limits still allow legal ads to reach adults." The author concedes that no policy is perfect, but insists that refusing to act is also a choice with costs. In other words, the community should steer the wheel before the road forces a crash. If we care about our community's routines, we should make this change.