War Virtually: The Quest to Automate Conflict, Militarize Data, and Predict the Future

The book "War Virtually" examines how the US military is weaponizing technology and data for new kinds of warfare, and why we must resist. It takes a critical approach to the techno-utopian view of these advancements and their dubious promise of a less deadly and more efficient warfare. It also exposes the high-tech underpinnings of contemporary military operations and the cultural assumptions they are built on.

Format: Hardback
Length: 270 pages
Publication date: 05 April 2022
Publisher: University of California Press

The book "War Virtually" delves into the fascinating realm of how the United States military is harnessing cutting-edge technology and data to revolutionize warfare, offering a critical examination of this evolving landscape. Written by Roberto J. González, a cultural anthropologist, the book provides a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the autonomous weapons, robotic systems, predictive modeling software, advanced surveillance programs, and psyops techniques that are shaping the nature of military conflict. González takes a critical stance towards the techno-utopian perspective often associated with these advancements, challenging the notion that they will lead to a less deadly and more efficient form of warfare.

Through clear and accessible prose, "War Virtually" exposes the high-tech underpinnings of contemporary military operations, shedding light on the cultural assumptions that underpin them. The book explores a range of topics, including automated battlefield robotics, the role of social scientists in experimental defense research, the blurring of lines between political consulting and propaganda in the internet era, and the military's utilization of big data to develop new counterinsurgency methods based on predictive conflict analysis.

One particularly alarming aspect of the book is González's revelation of the quiet collaboration between the Pentagon and US intelligence agencies with Big Tech firms such as Google, Amazon, and others. This partnership raises concerns about the potential merger of these tech giants with some of the world's largest defense contractors, potentially creating a powerful military-industrial complex that could undermine democratic governance and human survival.

"War Virtually" takes an unflinching look at the potential consequences of an algorithmic future, where new military technologies threaten the very foundations of democratic governance and human well-being. The book emphasizes the need for resistance and responsible stewardship of these advanced technologies, as they have the potential to reshape the geopolitical landscape and alter the course of human history.

In conclusion, "War Virtually" is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the intersection of technology, warfare, and global politics. With its insightful analysis and thought-provoking insights, the book offers a valuable perspective on the emerging threats and opportunities posed by the weaponization of technology and data. As we navigate the rapidly evolving world of military technology, it is essential to remain vigilant and engaged in the debate over its ethical and societal implications.

Weight: 496g
Dimension: 160 x 235 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520384767