Our systems are now restored following recent technical disruption, and we’re working hard to catch up on publishing. We apologise for the inconvenience caused. Find out more

Recommended product

Popular links

Popular links


Technology and the Public Interest

Technology and the Public Interest

Technology and the Public Interest

Author:
Haochen Sun, University of Hong Kong Faculty of Law
Published:
April 2022
Availability:
Available
Format:
Hardback
ISBN:
9781108416962

Looking for an examination copy?

If you are interested in the title for your course we can consider offering an examination copy. To register your interest please contact [email protected] providing details of the course you are teaching.

    In this groundbreaking work, Haochen Sun analyzes the ethical crisis unfolding at the intersection of technology and the public interest. He examines technology companies' growing power and their increasing disregard for the public good. To tackle this asymmetry of power and responsibility, he argues that we must reexamine the nature and scope of the right to technology and dynamically protect it as a human right under international law, a collective right under domestic civil rights law, and potentially a fundamental right under domestic constitutional law. He also develops the concept of fundamental corporate responsibility requiring technology companies to compensate users for their contributions, assume an active role responsibility in upholding the public interest, and counter injustices caused by technological developments.

    • Examines how the right to technology should be reinvigorated and protected internationally and domestically
    • Proposes new means of enforcing corporate responsibilities for the fair distribution of benefits of technological progress
    • Explores the nature and scope of the public interest associated with technology

    Reviews & endorsements

    ‘It’s hard to imagine a more timely intervention. In this important and urgent volume, prominent intellectual property scholar Haochen Sun sets out a compelling case for recognition of the human right to technology and a blueprint for defending that right against the assaults of Big Tech.’ Barton Beebe, John M. Desmarais Professor of Intellectual Property Law, New York University School of Law

    ‘In this foundational book, Haochen Sun builds a new vision of corporate social responsibility in the digital era. He uncovers a nearly forgotten human right to the benefits of science, and argues that technology companies need to better ensure broad distribution of the benefits of technology.’ Anupam Chander, Scott K. Ginsburg Professor of Law and Technology, Georgetown University Law Center

    ‘As backlash against leading technology firms grows, it is time to think big about the future governance of intellectual property and internet platforms. Technology and the Public Interest more than meets the challenge, offering a comprehensive vision for law and policy to promote fundamental corporate responsibilities to protect and promote human flourishing. Sun’s first-rate work squarely addresses contemporary concerns like COVID vaccine disparities, while developing a normative framework of lasting relevance. Read this important book for an erudite and inspiring perspective on technology governance.’ Frank Pasquale, Professor of Law, Brooklyn Law School

    ‘… a quick, engaging, succinct, and timely work … Highly recommended.’ R. I. Saltz, Choice

    See more reviews

    Product details

    April 2022
    Hardback
    9781108416962
    350 pages
    235 × 159 × 18 mm
    0.45kg
    Available

    Table of Contents

    • Introduction: Technology and the Public Interest
    • 1. The Human Right to Technology
    • 2. The Collective Right to Technology
    • 3. The Fundamental Right to Technology
    • 4. The Irresponsibility of Technology Companies
    • 5. Fundamental Corporate Responsibility
    • 6. Patent Responsibility.
      Author
    • Haochen Sun , University of Hong Kong Faculty of Law

      Haochen Sun is Associate Professor of Law at the University of Hong Kong. He has published numerous articles and co-edited books on intellectual property and technology law. His opinions about intellectual property and technology law have appeared in many media outlets such as Forbes, The Los Angeles Times, The New York Times, South China Morning Post, and The Wall Street Journal.