Transparency vs. Tokenism in Responsible Tech Pledges
By Lucky Star, Responsible AI | Blockchain Educator & Consultant
Introduction
In the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain technologies, a growing number of companies are making public commitments to "responsible tech." These pledges often emphasize ethical principles, transparency, and inclusivity. However, a closer examination reveals that many of these commitments may be more performative than substantive, lacking the depth and accountability necessary to effect real change.
The Rise of Responsible Tech Pledges
[May 7, 2025] — The concept of "responsible tech" has gained traction as stakeholders demand greater accountability from technology companies. Organizations like Atlassian have published their Responsible Technology Principles, aiming to embed ethical considerations into their development processes (Atlassian, n.d.). Similarly, Omidyar Network advocates for intentional governance of digital technology systems to advance societal good (Omidyar Network, n.d.).
While these initiatives are commendable, there is a growing concern that such pledges may serve more as public relations tools than as frameworks for meaningful action.
Tokenism in Tech Ethics
Tokenism refers to superficial or symbolic efforts to appear inclusive or ethical without implementing substantial changes. In the context of technology, this can manifest as companies highlighting minimal diversity efforts or ethical guidelines without addressing deeper issues.
For instance, Amnesty International has criticized the tech industry's reliance on ethical AI principles that fail to address human rights violations, emphasizing that such principles alone are insufficient (Amnesty International, 2019).
The Need for Genuine Transparency
Transparency is a cornerstone of ethical technology development. It involves clear communication about how technologies are developed, the data they use, and their potential impacts. Brookings Institution highlights that transparency measures are essential for better digital governance and can pressure companies to act in the public interest (Ghosh, 2022).
Moreover, integrating transparency by design into AI systems can help organizations proactively address ethical concerns (Felzmann et al., 2020).
Centering Overlooked Perspectives
A recurring concern in discussions around ethical technology is that individuals most affected by extractive practices in AI and digital systems—whether through resource mining, data exploitation, or lack of access to infrastructure—are often not the ones shaping the conversation. More often, their realities are interpreted through secondhand accounts, typically by those with access to large platforms and funding.
This is especially visible across the Americas and Africa, where longstanding disparities persist, yet conversations about solutions are commonly led by professionals with limited connection to the lived experiences of those navigating these gaps daily. When these narratives are filtered through institutions or actors detached from the core realities, the result often feels more symbolic than structural—offering digestible but incomplete frameworks.
Timnit Gebru, a respected AI ethics researcher, emphasizes that excluding those directly affected from decision-making does not just reflect poor design—it sustains harm by upholding incomplete truths (Perrigo, 2023).
Moving Towards True Responsibility
To move beyond tokenism, technology companies must:
- Implement transparent practices that go beyond surface-level commitments.
- Engage with and quantitatively amplify voices from underrepresented communities.
- Establish accountability mechanisms to ensure ethical guidelines are followed.
- Continuously assess and address the societal impacts of their technologies.
Ways to Stay Informed and Involved
You do not need to be a technologist to take part in shaping a better digital future. Here are ways to stay aware and contribute:
- Ask where your data goes. Whether using a new app or tool, take a moment to look for a privacy or terms page—see what is being collected and how.
- Support platforms that show their process. Tools that explain how content is moderated or how decisions are made signal long-term care.
- Ask questions in your circles. Whether at school, work, or online, asking “who benefits?” or “who is being left out?” is a simple but powerful shift.
- Read and share grounded content. Articles like this are written to support awareness without hype. Share them with someone who may not usually engage with tech topics.
- Reach out for guidance when needed. If you are unsure how a platform works or what your options are, there are professionals—like Lucky Star—who offer consultation designed to clarify, not sell.
Conclusion
While the proliferation of responsible tech pledges indicates a growing awareness of ethical considerations, it is crucial to distinguish between genuine efforts and performative acts. True responsibility in technology requires transparency, access-oriented design, and an ongoing willingness to adapt and evolve.