Geopolitics of Digital Heritage

The Geopolitics of Digital Heritage examines the political implications of digital heritage aggregators across different scales of governance, combining critical heritage studies with digital politics and communications. It investigates how political imperatives shape the development of these platforms to serve various actors in a global information space.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 102 pages
Publication date: 08 February 2024
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

The Geopolitics of Digital Heritage delves into the profound political implications of the largest digital heritage aggregators across various governance scales. From the city-state governed Singapore Memory Project to the national aggregator like Australia's Trove, to supranational digital heritage platforms like Europeana and the global heritage aggregator, Google Arts & Culture, this comprehensive analysis explores the intricate web of political motivations and interests at play.

Four dedicated case studies serve as focal points for a critical examination of these digital heritage aggregators. Through an interdisciplinary approach, the Element combines critical heritage studies with the study of digital politics and communications. By drawing from empirical case study analysis, it investigates how political imperatives shape the development of digital heritage platforms to serve a diverse range of actors in the highly saturated global information space, spanning from national governments to transnational corporations.

The Singapore Memory Project, a city-state governed initiative, stands as a prime example of the geopolitical dimensions of digital heritage. This project aims to preserve and digitize Singapore's historical and cultural heritage, leveraging technology to create a centralized repository for accessible information. However, the project also raises questions about sovereignty, ownership, and cultural appropriation, particularly in the context of a rapidly globalizing world.

Australia's Trove, on the other hand, represents a national aggregator that aims to provide access to a vast collection of cultural and historical resources. With a focus on digitizing public domain materials, Trove has become a valuable tool for researchers, educators, and the general public. However, it also raises concerns about data ownership, intellectual property rights, and the potential for commercialization.

Europeana, a supranational digital heritage platform, seeks to facilitate the sharing and preservation of cultural heritage across Europe. By aggregating resources from various national institutions, Europeana aims to promote cultural diversity, heritage tourism, and cultural exchange. However, it also faces challenges related to language barriers, data sovereignty, and the need for sustainable funding.

Google Arts & Culture, the global heritage aggregator, presents a unique challenge due to its vast scale and reach. With a collection of millions of cultural artifacts and artworks from around the world, Google Arts & Culture aims to make cultural heritage accessible to a global audience. However, it also raises questions about data mining, privacy, and cultural representation.

In conclusion, the Geopolitics of Digital Heritage offers a comprehensive examination of the political implications of the largest digital heritage aggregators across different governance scales. Through the lens of critical heritage studies, digital politics, and communications, this analysis sheds light on the complex interplay of power, sovereignty, and cultural heritage in the digital age. By exploring these case studies, we gain a deeper understanding of the geopolitical motivations and interests that shape the development of digital heritage platforms, as well as the economic and cultural agendas of involved stakeholders. This knowledge is essential for navigating the complex terrain of digital heritage in a rapidly changing global landscape.

Weight: 161g
ISBN-13: 9781009182089