Question: The marginalization and production of inequality in the cyberspace through big data, algorithm, and technology

Expert answer

In recent years, there has been a growing concern over the ways in which big data, algorithms, and technology can be used to marginalize and produce inequality in cyberspace. This is often referred to as the 'digital divide.'

There are a number of ways in which this can happen. For example, individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds may not have access to the same quality or quantity of data as those from higher socioeconomic backgrounds. Additionally, algorithms may be biased against certain groups of people, resulting in them being less likely to appear in search results or be recommended content.

Finally, technology itself can be used to advantage or disadvantage certain groups of people. For example, facial recognition software is more likely to misidentify people of color than white people, and women are more likely to be targeted by online harassment than men.

The digital divide can have a number of negative consequences for those who are marginalized. First, it can lead to a lack of access to essential services and information. Second, it can reinforce existing social inequalities. Finally, it can create new forms of discrimination and exclusion.

There are a number of ways to address the digital divide. One is to increase access to data and technology for those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. Another is to create algorithms that are more inclusive and equitable. Finally, we need to ensure that technology itself is not used in a way that creates or reinforces inequality.