Data Power in Action: Urban Data Politics in Times of Crisis

This book explores how the intensive use of data changes politics, power relations, and everyday life in contemporary cities, focusing on how urban actors use data as a resource to empower their actions and support their claims.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 09 January 2024
Publisher: Bristol University Press

This book delves into the profound impact of data utilization on politics, power dynamics, and daily life in contemporary cities, drawing insights from a comprehensive examination of diverse urban landscapes across the Global South. Expert contributors showcase how urban actors, ranging from governments to activists, are harnessing data as a powerful tool to empower their endeavors and bolster their arguments, while also highlighting how crises serve as moments when the power of data becomes readily apparent. Through a multi-faceted exploration of data power and politics in the urban context, this book makes a significant contribution to our understanding of the transformative effects of datafication on the spaces we inhabit and the ways in which we engage with them.

Introduction:
The rapid proliferation of data and its increasing importance in shaping urban landscapes have prompted a growing interest in understanding the dynamics of data power and politics in the urban realm. This book aims to contribute to this understanding by exploring the diverse dimensions of data power and politics in contemporary cities.

Chapter 1:
In the first chapter, the book provides an overview of the theoretical framework and key concepts that underpin the study of data power and politics in the urban context. It explores the role of data in shaping urban governance, policymaking, and the everyday lives of citizens. The chapter also highlights the challenges and opportunities associated with the intensive use of data.

Chapter 2:
Chapter 2 delves into the various dimensions of data power and politics in the urban realm. It examines how data is used to govern cities, monitor urban systems, and manage urban resources. The chapter also explores how data is used to shape public opinion, influence political decision-making, and perpetuate social inequalities.

Chapter 3:
Chapter 3 examines the role of data in empowering urban actors and promoting social change. It explores how data can be used by activists, community organizations, and grassroots movements to challenge dominant power structures and advocate for their rights. The chapter also highlights the ethical considerations and challenges associated with data-driven activism.

Chapter 4:
Chapter 4 explores the impact of data on power relations in the urban realm. It examines how data is used to reinforce existing power hierarchs, consolidate power, and marginalize marginalized communities. The chapter also explores how data can be used to challenge power imbalances and promote more equitable and inclusive urban development.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this book provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary examination of the dynamics of data power and politics in contemporary cities. It highlights the ways in which data is used to shape urban governance, policymaking, and the everyday lives of citizens. The book also emphasizes the importance of recognizing the ethical considerations and challenges associated with the intensive use of data. By exploring the diverse dimensions of data power and politics in the urban context, this book contributes to our understanding of the transformative effects of datafication on the places in which we live and the ways in which we experience them.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529233544