Distraction technologies are designed to capture attention and are widely used to influence behavior. The power to subtly control behavior through distraction supports the idea of a right to attention and there is a growing literature that argues this point. Yet, current defenses of this right overlook the unique moral implications of distraction. In this talk, I argue that distraction should be recognized as a distinct form of behavioral modification that warrants its own ethical analysis and forms the basis for defending a right to attention.

https://msu.zoom.us/j/94209869479 Meeting ID: 942 0986 9479 Passcode: 986224

Bio: Aaron Schultz is an Assistant Professor of Philosophy at Michigan State University. His research spans Buddhist philosophy, the justification of punishment, and the moral and political challenges posed by technology. He is particularly interested in how digital systems shape freedom and attention.