The Economic Lives of Platforms: Rethinking the Political Economy of Digital Markets

This book rethinks the political economy of the digital market by exploring the concept of "platform economies" and their implications for technology, information, society, and markets. It employs various analytical approaches and offers a timely assessment of the implications of emerging reconfigurations between technology, information, society, and markets.

Format: Hardback
Length: 198 pages
Publication date: 26 June 2024
Publisher: Bristol University Press

This comprehensive and interdisciplinary collection delves into the intricate political economy of the digital market, challenging the conventional understanding of its origins and exploring potential future trajectories. By examining the concept of "platform economies" within the context of locally embedded variations of digital markets, the book identifies both the novel aspects of contemporary platforms and the enduring characteristics of broader historical, social, and economic currents. A diverse team of authors employs a range of analytical approaches, including in-depth ethnographic studies, to unravel the complexities of these platforms and the industries they encompass. By leveraging current themes such as the decolonization of the internet, this book provides a timely assessment of the profound implications of emerging reconfigurations between technology, information, society, and markets.

The book's central argument revolves around the notion that platforms are not merely technological innovations but rather complex systems that emerge from the interplay of multiple factors, including economic, social, and cultural dynamics. By unpacking these platforms into their local contexts, the authors reveal the unique characteristics and challenges associated with each market. For instance, they explore how platform economies in developing countries differ from those in developed nations, highlighting the role of government regulations, infrastructure, and cultural norms in shaping platform development.

Furthermore, the book delves into the theoretical and analytical reconceptualizations of platforms and the industries they encompass. The authors challenge traditional notions of platform neutrality and argue that platforms are not merely intermediaries but active agents that shape the dynamics of the markets they operate in. They explore how platforms leverage data, algorithms, and network effects to exert control over user behavior, content creation, and market competition.

The authors also address the broader societal implications of platform-driven economies. They explore how platforms have transformed the way we work, communicate, and consume information, raising concerns about job displacement, privacy, and the concentration of power. They argue that the decolonization of the internet, which aims to redistribute control and resources away from dominant platforms, is an essential step towards creating a more equitable and inclusive digital ecosystem.

In conclusion, this book offers a groundbreaking exploration of the political economy of the digital market, challenging the existing frameworks and providing a fresh perspective on the evolving landscape of technology, information, society, and markets. By employing a diverse range of analytical approaches and addressing critical contemporary themes, the authors offer valuable insights into the complex dynamics that shape our digital world.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529237498