Digital Feudalism: Creators, Credit, Consumption, and Capitalism

Corporate and venture capitalists have adjusted business models to change the digital world, resulting in a massive shift in the global economy. This has led to precarious employment, perpetual buying of goods and services through subscriptions, and debt-based payment. Digital Feudalism explores this new moment in capitalism and its reliance on consumption, work, and debt.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 06 April 2023
Publisher: Emerald Publishing Limited

Over the past two decades, corporations and venture capitalists have revolutionized business models to shape the digital landscape. This transformative shift has led to a significant upheaval in the global economy, transforming the way we work, consume, and pay for goods and services. This new era, often referred to as "digital feudalism," presents a complex tapestry of challenges and opportunities.

In this digital feudalism, precarious employment opportunities emerge through digital platforms, perpetuating a cycle of economic uncertainty and insecurity. Consumers are entrapped in a cycle of subscriptions, where they are required to continuously pay for goods and services, often without the ability to unsubscribe or opt out. This perpetuates a sense of dependency and financial burden, as individuals struggle to keep up with the ever-increasing costs of living.

Furthermore, the reliance on debt has become a defining feature of this new economic landscape. As individuals and businesses take on increasing amounts of debt to finance their digital consumption, the burden of repayment falls disproportionately on those who are already marginalized and vulnerable. This debt trap creates a cycle of poverty and financial instability, as individuals are unable to escape the cycle of debt and financial hardship.

Digital Feudalism explores the profound implications of these developments on the global economy. It sheds light on the ways in which corporations and venture capitalists have exploited digital technologies to consolidate power and control, while perpetuating economic inequality and social injustice. The book also offers a critical analysis of the policies and regulations that have contributed to the rise of digital feudalism, and proposes alternative approaches that can promote a more equitable and sustainable digital economy.

In conclusion, the emergence of digital feudalism has brought about a significant shift in the global economy. It has created a new landscape of precarious employment, perpetuated economic dependency, and exacerbated debt-related challenges. However, by recognizing the underlying mechanisms of digital feudalism and advocating for policies that promote equity and sustainability, we can work towards a more inclusive and prosperous digital future.

Dimension: 198 x 129 x 10 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781804557693