Entering the matrix: the challenge of regulating Radical Leveling Technologies

Abstract

Radical Leveling Technologies (RLT) constitute a new class of technologies that have exponential disruptive effects across a diverse set of societal processes resulting in radical change. This emerging class has profound leveling effects. Users can leverage RLT to produce national or international impacts without the need for significant technological expertise. These effects may occur via digital diffusion and without the need for extensive infrastructure. RLT are being driven by the power and expertise of online Open Source Communities. The ability of existing policy and enforcement methods to regulate this class of technology successfully, particularly within the counterproliferation space, suggests that a paradigm change is necessary. A spectrum of potential solutions is considered which advocates for collaborative efforts vice hard policing measures to engage online communities while also providing options to build additional security capacity within the government and law enforcement communities. Capacity can be gained via unconventional means including the use of cyber bounties, cyber privateering, hybrid fusion centers, and decentralized autonomous technology teams to improve support to existing special operations efforts, particularly within the counterproliferation mission set.