Keynote in connection with a workshop by the Nordic Network for Datafication.

Stefania Milan, University of Amsterdam

Intrusive technology such as personalization algorithms or ‘smart’ surveillance cameras is at the core of data capitalism. Its introduction has radically altered the role of information and technology in the constitution of society, accelerating the crisis of liberal democracy. Its global diffusion is contributing to change power relations from the local to the transnational, introducing novel forms of colonial exploitation.

This talk departs from exploring two forms of intrusive technology which constitute two of the building blocks of data capitalism today, namely AdTech, or the technological ecosystem supporting targeted advertising, and facial recognition technology, as one of the most widespread yet most intrusive applications of Artificial Intelligence. It then goes on asking what space we can carve out for (data) activism, and whether we can devise research methods and strategies that are able to promote and support the political agency of the grassroots.

Participation in the lecture is free, but requires registration via email to anne.kaun@sh.se.