From big data epistemology to AI politics: rescuing the public dimension over data-driven technologies
Journal of Information, Communication and Ethics in Society
ISSN: 1477-996X
Article publication date: 27 June 2023
Issue publication date: 4 July 2023
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to explore the epistemological tensions embedded within big data and data-driven technologies to advance a socio-political reconsideration of the public dimension in the assessment of their implementation.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper builds upon (and revisits) the European Union’s (EU) normative understanding of artificial intelligence (AI) and data-driven technologies, blending reflections rooted in philosophy of technology with issues of democratic participation in tech-related matters.
Findings
This paper proposes the conceptual design of sectorial and/or local-level e-participation platforms to ignite an ongoing discussion – involving experts, private actors, as well as cognizant citizens – over the implementation of data-driven technologies, to avoid siloed, tech-solutionist decisions.
Originality/value
This paper inscribes the EU’s normative approach to AI and data-driven technologies, as well as critical work on the governance of these technologies, into a broader political dimension, suggesting a way to democratically and epistocratically opening up the decisional processes over the development and implementation of these technologies and turn such processes into a systemic civic involvement.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
Funding: No funding for this research.
Conflict of interest: No conflict of interest.
Citation
Calzati, S. (2023), "From big data epistemology to AI politics: rescuing the public dimension over data-driven technologies", Journal of Information, Communication and Ethics in Society, Vol. 21 No. 3, pp. 358-372. https://doi.org/10.1108/JICES-12-2022-0108
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2023, Emerald Publishing Limited