Empowerment: Analysing technologies of multiple variable visibility

17Citations
Citations of this article
24Readers
Mendeley users who have this article in their library.

Abstract

This paper notes the emergence of technologies of multiple variable visibility – that is, technologies that render individuals visible to diverse interests simultaneously via the corporate ownership of intimate personal data generated in a peer-to-peer information context. Focusing on Facebook, a classic example of technology of this genre, I argue that the various levels of visibility that are facilitated by these technologies cannot and should not be analysed in isolation from one another. The complex dynamics of power that are mobilised via the strategic employment of multiple visibilities complicates the typical representation of Facebook and other surveillance technologies of its ilk as one-dimensional conduits for either empowerment or exploitation. Rather, in the context of these technologies, I argue that visibilities (plural) facilitate combined experiences of empowerment and disempowerment, a process that not only speaks to the type of data collection enabled through this process but also implies a whole serious of implications specific to their use.

Cite

CITATION STYLE

APA

Ellerbrok, A. (2010). Empowerment: Analysing technologies of multiple variable visibility. Surveillance and Society, 8(2), 200–220. https://doi.org/10.24908/ss.v8i2.3486

Register to see more suggestions

Mendeley helps you to discover research relevant for your work.

Already have an account?

Save time finding and organizing research with Mendeley

Sign up for free