The subtle art of always feeling miserable.

Balancing Privacy and Assistive Technology: The Case for Large Language Models

In today’s digital world, the tension between privacy and technology is more pronounced than ever. I’m deeply concerned about the implications of surveillance capitalism—especially the spyware embedded in our devices, cars, and even our bodies. This pervasive technology can lead to a loss of autonomy and a feeling of being constantly monitored. Yet, amidst these concerns, assistive technology plays a critical role, particularly for those of us with neurological impairments.

I recently read a thought-provoking post by @serge that highlighted the importance of sharing perspectives on this issue.

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With the rise of large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT, we’re seeing a shift toward more accessible and user-friendly technology. Local LLMs offer a viable alternative to big tech solutions, often running on specially laptops or even compact devices like Raspberry Pi. For many, including myself, LLMs are invaluable tools that enhance communication, summarize information, transcribe voice, facilitate learning, and help manage tasks that might otherwise feel overwhelming. They can help strike the right emotional tone in our writing and assist in understanding complex data—capabilities that are especially crucial for those of us facing neurological challenges.

While the goal of eliminating surveillance capitalism is commendable, banning technology outright isn’t the answer. We must recognize the significance of LLMs for individuals with disabilities. Calls to remove these technologies can overlook their profound impact on our lives. For many, LLMs are not just tools; they are lifelines that enable us to engage with the world more fully. Removing access to these resources would only isolate individuals who already face significant barriers. Instead, we should focus on utilizing local LLMs and other privacy-focused alternatives.

This situation underscores the need for a nuanced approach to the intersection of privacy and assistive technology. Open-source LLMs, like Piper, exemplify how we can create locally run voice models that are accessible to everyone, even on low-cost devices. Advocating for privacy must go hand in hand with considering the implications for those who rely on these technologies for daily functioning. Striking a balance between protecting individual privacy and ensuring access to vital assistive tools is not just necessary; it’s imperative.

In conclusion, LLMs represent a promising avenue for assisting individuals with neurological impairments. By embracing local and open-source solutions, we can protect our privacy while ensuring that everyone has access to the tools they need to thrive. The conversation around privacy and technology must continue, focusing on inclusivity and empowerment for all.

I use SpeechNotes installed locally all the time, and I’d love to hear how you use LLMs as assistive technology! Do you run your LLM locally? Share your experiences!

Trying out this #introduction thing (finally).

Unemployed computer tech and aspiring novelist. Came to Mastodon because of the #foss and #fediverse thing, as I'm quite fond of open standards and non-corporate media (and well, anything really). I wasn't quite sure how to use it since I had never touched xitter, and didn't get the whole micro-blogging thing. I was always more of a forums/Reddit kind of person (I'm on Lemmy now instead BTW). But I found this place to be a great source of information, support, and community regarding autism and #NeuroDiversity since I am a late-self-realized #actuallyautistic and #ActuallyADHD (a.k.a. #AuDHD ) Turns out that "neurodiversity" has been a "special interest" of mine for a long time, before I even knew the word for it. So I spend a lot of time here, probably more than I should.

I'm also working on several projects that I guess can only be collectively referred to as "social benefit" projects. I'll talk about those occasionally and even asking for help, because they are big projects that will need many people and I don't work so well by myself.

And I'm also one of those progressive, lefty, pinko, equal rights, social justice, digital freedom, privacy advocating, LGBT+ ally type people. I grew up on Star Trek ok? They debated whether a cloud of gas or a big rock was actually a person or not. Makes the crap we have to deal with right now IRL seem pretty stupid.

So if you like talking about that kind of stuff, or any of my copious other SpIns (many of which are in my profile), I'm game.

Hi, sfba.social! Allow me to #introduction myself.

I just moved here from pdx.social. I can’t be summed up in a single toot, but… I love #design, #architecture, #photography, #redwoods, the #California coast, #neurodiversity, and #inclusive systems. Oh, and #parenting my three brilliantly unique kids (the hardest work I’ve ever done) and really bad puns.

My life’s work is building Oolie, our family business and Certified #BCorp helping families sleep better with #organic bedding and baby products. I hope you’ll check us out: https://oolie.com/signup

In my former career, I was into online learning, creative coding, and data visualization, even publishing a couple of books. I still love that stuff (#DataVis #Processing #p5js #d3js #JavaScript), but that feels like 1M years ago.

Expect to see posts about everything mentioned above!

Big thanks to the SFBA @moderators for having me.

<자신의 존재에 대해 사과하지 말 것 Explaining humans/카밀라 팡 지음​/김보영 옮김/푸른숲> #신경다양성
#Neurodiversity #자폐스펙트럼장애 #ADHD #ASD
책을 읽으면서 좋았던 내용을 일부 공유해보고 싶어요.

자폐스펙트럼장애를 가진 사람들은 일상에서 일어나는 사건들을 처리하고 이해하기가 다른 사람들보다 더 힘들다. 우리는 종종 필터 없이 보거나 직설적으로 말하며, 쉽게 격한 감정에 휩싸이고, 기이한 행동을 한다. 그래서 사람들은 우리의 재능을 간과하거나 무시하기도 한다.

Hi new people! I'm Perry. I think a #reintroduction is probably in order.

I study the #evolution and #biodiversity of cave #insects to inform #conservation management, naming of species, resilience to #climatechange, & more.

I'm also interested in #neurodiversity in academia, #degrowth, #localism, and #climatejustice!

: Naracoorte cave crickets, Steve Bourne

There are JP and EN neuro divergent communities……
#ADHD
#ASD
#LD
#Neurodiversity
@actuallyautistic @adhd
@hattatsu_jp

I figured it's probably about time that I write an #Introduction...

Hi, I'm Oliver! I'm non-binary and asexual, and use they/them pronouns; and I'm Autistic (preferring identity-first language) and have ADHD.

I'm interested in all things technology, especially in making technology work for everybody (both in terms of accessiblity and equality).

I run the new Page.LGBT Mastodon instance, which is intended to be an open and welcoming space for all members of the LGBTQ+ community (except for TERFs, of course).

I'd love to connect with more Autistic & neurodivergent people on here, as well as other LGBTQ+ people!

I am so sick of seeing people try to defend Elon Musk's toxic behavior by pointing to his autism.

Let me be clear as someone with cerebral palsy and ADHD: Autism/neurodivergence/disability is never an excuse for malicious actions. Plenty of people are autistic without being assholes.

Hi! I’m still new here, figuring it out. #introduction

Hoping this instance is diverse and welcoming to all (except nazis/fascists/racists)

I’m going to share a big hashtag mess; I like to learn things and meet people.

I enjoy #queer topics, and #antiracism
#Neurodiversity
#journalists #authors #writers
#scientists #EnvironmentalEquity #nature #rocks
#photography
#weather especially #cowx and #wildfires
#colorado and #denver and #california
#politicsoftheunitedstates and #StopGopHate

Do we do #Introduction here?
I'm Char Hunter (she/they). Two-spirit #TransFeminine #Autistic #Lawyer on #MentalHealth leave since 2014. Interested in #Disability justice, #Trans related #HealthCare, #PychMeds, learning more #Ojibway and #ASL, #BonIver, #BIPOC #SaferSpaces, medical #Cannabis. When I can, I work with #Indigenous #NonProfits on lived experience in #Homelessness, #Housing, #GenderDiversity, #NeuroDiversity, and anything #Intersectional. Let's #Decolonize.

CW: direct eye contact

Hi! I write sci-fi and fantasy. Currently writing book three, The Ruined, of my future ice age #FindingHumanitySeries. If you like climate fiction, a diverse cast, sci-fi with a twist of mysticism, and enemies forced to work together, this may be the series for you.
Other interests:
#cats #animals #nature #arctic #astronomy #science #trees #neurodiversity #yoga #meditation #consciousness #aliens #history #mythology #folklore #fae #scifi #reading #fantasy #paranormal #shifters #homesteading

#Introduction Hi everyone! My name’s Alex. I work as a full-time AV tech at a public science & education institution. I’m immersed in technology and problem solving on a daily basis.

I love #videogames and #boardgames, recently got into #Python programming, and I enjoy making #electronicmusic every so often in my spare time.

I was diagnosed with #ADHD a couple of years ago after some realizations, and have since become an advocate for #accessibility and #neurodiversity.

Toot @ me or follow!

#introduction
Hey! I’m Geraldo, I’m an #ActuallyADHD & #ActuallyAutistic children’s #librarian (AFSCME #union ) at a public library. I’m a #USAAmerican & #Colombian. I’m a member of the #Bahai Faith, an advocate for #Neurodiversity and #DisabilityJustice️ in all spaces, and especially in stories.

#Librarian #Libraries #LibraryWorkers #Disabled #ADHD #ADHDer

I never did my #Introduction.
Dull oldie, boosting the less dull. I live as green as I can.
Value equity, equality, respect, compassion, lots of laughs.
Enjoy reading, walking, cooking, gardening, music, cats & guinea pigs #AdoptDontShop.
Hoping for a more accepting world in general, including #AutismAcceptance & #neurodiversity.
Above all #ClimateEmergency needs #ClimateActionNow & #ClimateEquity.
USA is my home, but concerned for the UK where many family are so #GTTO #NHS #RightToLove.

#Introduction Housing advocate, designer, researcher, writer, & project developer based in Portland, Oregon, & N. California. Director of HousingAlternatives.net, writing/editing Village Buildings: West Coast Housing From the Bottom Up; & Apology for the Builder, on speculative & terraced #housing from 17thC London to today. US/UK dual citizen.
#architecture #design #planning #urbanism #designjustice #homelessness #neurodiversity #nomadism #alternativehousing #London #Portland #PDX