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Editors' introduction to the special issue on the sociology of digital technology.

Authors :
Zukin, Sharon
Torpey, John
Source :
Theory & Society. Oct2020, Vol. 49 Issue 5/6, p745-748. 4p.
Publication Year :
2020

Abstract

An increasing number of sociologists today are examining the social production of digital technology. Although younger researchers may be digital natives and write from "within the algorithm," and older sociologists may begin by trying to define terms and concepts that have become commonplace in the tech "space," all share the goal of unpacking the "black box" of computer software by analyzing how, where, and by whom it is developed and asking who benefits most by its use. Some of the articles in this special issue of Theory and Society focus on questions of connectivity, privacy, and equity in light of classical sociology's concern with the state, the self, knowledge, and power; others look critically at forms of inequality in the operations of specific platforms, algorithms, urban tech ecosystems, and coworking spaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
03042421
Volume :
49
Issue :
5/6
Database :
Academic Search Index
Journal :
Theory & Society
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
146711028
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11186-020-09413-1