A theory of algorithmic sociality (TaS)

Abstract

The digital transformation of the past decade has been accompanied by social changes that require a fundamental revision of sociological theories. To this end, the article proposes a theory of algorithmic sociality (TaS). This theory aims to (1.) conceptualize new (post-)social relations that have emerged in the process of digital transformation and add them to other types of social relations prevalent in sociology, such as intersubjective and interobjective relations. In doing so, digitalization will not be understood as a unifying (or perhaps even simplifying) movement, but (2.) as a process in which both the forms of relationships and the individuals in these relationships become more diverse and heterogeneous. (3.) the individuals or elements (human subjects, algorithmic objects, etc.) that play a role in these relations and processes are typologically mapped. To conceptualize the relations and processes between the individuals and such elements, I use Gilbert Simondon’s concept of disparity (disparation). To describe these new (post)-social relations, I propose the notion of algorithmic sociality.