WiserEarth Suggestions

CPSR is a global organization promoting the responsible use of computer technology. Incorporated in 1983 (following discussions and organizing that began in 1981), CPSR educates policymakers and the public on a wide range of issues. CPSR has incubated numerous projects such as Privaterra, the Public Sphere Project, EPIC (the Electronic Privacy Information Center), the 21st Century Project, the Civil Society Project, and the CFP (Computers, Freedom and Privacy) Conference. Originally founded by U.S. computer scientists, CPSR now has members in 26 countries on six continents.

Mission

CPSR is a public-interest alliance of people concerned about the impact of information and communications technology on society. We work to influence decisions regarding the development and use of computers because those decisions have far-reaching consequences and reflect our basic values and priorities. As experts on ICT issues, CPSR members provide realistic assessments of the power, promise, and limitations of computer technology. As concerned citizens, we direct public attention to critical choices concerning the applications of computing and how those choices affect society.

By sponsoring international, national, and local projects, CPSR serves as a catalyst for in-depth discussion and effective action in key areas.

Every project we undertake is based on five principles:

1. We foster and support public discussion of, and public responsibility for decisions involving the use of technology in systems critical to society.
2. We work to dispel popular myths about the infallibility of technologies.
3. We challenge the assumption that technology alone can solve political and social problems.
4. We critically examine social and technical issues within the information technology profession, both nationally and internationally.
5. We encourage the use of information technology to improve quality of life.