Nov 9, 2017
We are being watched, but who’s watching? Author Pratap Chatterjee joined forces with artist Khalil to illustrate the complex history of mass surveillance since 9/11 with VERAX: The True History of Whistleblowers, Drone Warfare, and Mass Surveillance, a striking work of investigative journalism presented in the form of a graphic novel. Journalist Chatterjee visually outlined a fact-finding expedition into programs that guide missiles for drone strikes, “deep packet inspection” data-mining techniques in e-mails, and mass-tracking of individuals’ locations through player data in popular games like “Angry Birds.” Alongside their vivid telling, Chatterjee and Khalil offer a prognosis for the future of electronic surveillance, and for the fortunes of those who resist it.
Pratap Chatterjee is an investigative reporter who focuses on U.S. warfare and technology, he has served as a commentator for BBC, CNN, Fox, MSNBC; produced segments for Democracy Now! and Channel Four, and hosted a weekly radio show for KPFA Pacifica radio.
Khalil Bendib is the co-author of the New York Times bestseller Zahra’s Paradise, which was published in 16 languages and nominated for two Eisner Awards.
Recorded live at Impact Hub by Town Hall Seattle Monday, October 30, 2017