Human Autonomy Technology Shields (HATS)

HATS are a special type of CAR defined as any technology that provides a protective interface between humans and technology. They help preserve human AUTONOMY, increase user AGENCY, and give humans greater CONTROL over the technology they are required to use or choose to use. HATS introduces a human-centric class of privacy tool – instead of focusing only on securing devices, accounts, networks, or data, HATS focuses on the relationship between humans and technology. The purpose is to create a buffer preserving human autonomy, protecting individual essence, supporting informed decision-making, and increase the ability to inspect, direct, configure, and govern the technology being used.