From big data epistemology to AI politics: rescuing the public dimension over data-driven technologies

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the epistemological tensions embedded within big data and data-driven technologies to advance a socio-political reconsideration of the public dimension in the assessment of their implementation.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper builds upon (and revisits) the European Union’s (EU) normative understanding of artificial intelligence (AI) and data-driven technologies, blending reflections rooted in philosophy of technology with issues of democratic participation in tech-related matters.

Findings

This paper proposes the conceptual design of sectorial and/or local-level e-participation platforms to ignite an ongoing discussion – involving experts, private actors, as well as cognizant citizens – over the implementation of data-driven technologies, to avoid siloed, tech-solutionist decisions.

Originality/value

This paper inscribes the EU’s normative approach to AI and data-driven technologies, as well as critical work on the governance of these technologies, into a broader political dimension, suggesting a way to democratically and epistocratically opening up the decisional processes over the development and implementation of these technologies and turn such processes into a systemic civic involvement.

Citation

Calzati, S. (2023), "From big data epistemology to AI politics: rescuing the public dimension over data-driven technologies", Journal of Information, Communication and Ethics in Society, Vol. 21 No. 3, pp. 358-372. https://doi.org/10.1108/JICES-12-2022-0108