The Political Economy of Data in the Age of Platformization

In today’s digital age, data has become a powerful currency that shapes societal norms, influences policies, and drives economic decisions. As Mutiu Iyanda and Gbolahan Salahudeen, during Infoprations’ Personalised Mentorship Programme, delve into the nuances of data ownership, distribution, and ethical use, they highlight the relationship between data and power dynamics, especially in regions like Nigeria.

Data Ownership, Distribution, and Misuse

The discourse begins by examining the political economy of data, emphasizing critical concerns about ownership, control, and the lack of transparency. Mutiu highlights how data collected from individuals is often owned and monetized by large corporations, raising ethical concerns around data misuse and surveillance capitalism. He introduces concepts like data colonialism, where the extraction and exploitation of data resemble historical colonial practices, shifting control from citizens to powerful entities.

Digital Media’s Influence on Data Dynamics

With the proliferation of digital media and platforms, society has undergone a transformative shift. Mutiu underscores how governments and corporations utilize data to frame narratives and justify policies. In Nigeria, connectivity challenges compound these issues, where limited access to accurate information can skew public perception and electoral integrity. The discussion points to the need for robust digital literacy to navigate these complex media landscapes.

Data Science, Ethics, and Exploitation

Mutiu explores the growing field of data science, emphasizing its role in understanding distribution patterns and the implications for citizens. The ethical use of data, including avoiding bias in datasets, becomes paramount as data increasingly dictates socio-economic decisions. Mutiu advocates for transparency and accountability in data handling, particularly in political contexts where misinformation can be weaponized.

Do-It-Yourself

1. Understand Data Ownership and Distribution

• Recognize that data you generate is often controlled by corporations. To protect your data rights, be mindful of terms of service and advocate for transparency.

2. Address Data Misuse Concerns

• Be aware of how data is used, especially for advertising and surveillance capitalism. Push for policies that require explicit consent and responsible data use.

3. Leverage Data Science and Ethics

• Use data science responsibly to analyze patterns, ensuring you address biases and promote transparency in data handling.

4. Enhance Data Literacy

• Build skills in data cleaning, analysis, and visualization to make informed decisions. Promote data literacy within organizations to improve transparency.

5. Be Aware of Digital Media’s Impact

• Recognize how data and digital narratives shape public opinion and policy. Critical evaluation of information sources is essential.

6. Apply Predictive Analytics Ethically

• Use data analytics, like traffic predictions, responsibly, balancing efficiency with privacy considerations.

7. Promote Data Ethics in Decision-Making

• Integrate data ethics in organizational processes, balancing quantitative and qualitative insights for fair and informed decisions.

Datafication and Predictive Analytics

Salahudeen contributes to the discussion by examining datafication—the transformation of various aspects of life into data. He highlights practical applications, such as using data to predict traffic patterns or train algorithms to optimize public services. However, these advancements also present risks of data exploitation, where privacy is often compromised for perceived efficiency gains.

Building Data Literacy for Decision-Making

The conversation culminates in the critical need for data literacy. Mutiu argues that understanding how data is collected, interpreted, and used is essential for informed decision-making. He identifies key skills like data cleaning, analysis, and visualization as vital for organizations to leverage data ethically. By embedding data ethics into the fabric of decision-making processes, organizations can foster a culture of transparency and accountability.

The political economy of data in the age of platformization presents both opportunities and challenges. As the discourse by Mutiu and Salahudeen illustrates, the control and use of data have profound implications for society, governance, and individual autonomy. Navigating this landscape requires a keen understanding of the ethical, political, and economic dimensions of data, calling for a collective effort to prioritize data rights, transparency, and responsible usage in a rapidly evolving digital world.