-By Bhavani Suri
What is Digital Sociology?
An emerging subfield of sociology, digital sociology evaluates the impact of technology and digitalization on society, humanity and culture. Social institutions, identities, power structures and relationships are deeply affected by innovations communicated by the internet, social media, big data, AI and other innovations. Digital sociology, thus, studies the adoption of technology and focuses on the broader socio-economic and political implications of digital transformation. Certain areas of study within digital sociology include how social media influence identity formation and social movements, the role of big data and AI in surveillance and management, the gig economy, digital access and inequality, online communities, digital activism and, more importantly, misinformation.
Digital Sociology – The Origins
The evolution of digital sociology began primarily with digital communication, the role of media and finally, with technology reshaping personal lives. The roots of the field can be found in the following:
Media and Communication Studies (Marshall McLuhan, 1964) – Explored how media technologies shape human perception and interactions.
Sociology of the Internet (1990s) – Scholars like Manuel Castells analysed the rise of the "network society" and the impact of the internet on social structures.
Critical Data Studies (2010s) – Examined how big data and algorithms influence governance, privacy, and everyday life.
Post-2020 Growth – The COVID-19 pandemic further highlighted the importance of digital sociology as remote work, digital education, and online political discourse became central to global society.
Digital Sociology Predictions
As the world experiences rapid digitalization, digital sociology is gaining global significance. For instance, a digital divide is opening up, and access is affecting education, healthcare, and employment. Digital sociology can help bridge this divide by identifying policies that can improve inclusion.
Besides, digital sociology is also contributing to ethical debates on privacy where AI and ML are instrumental and integral in key decision making. Bias and algorithmic governance become potent arguments fielded by digital sociology.
Today, political activism is bred on the digital platform. This invite debates on cyber governance and freedom of speech, as well as understanding how digital networks mobilize people.
Remote employment and the gig economy are transforming the labour markets and digital sociology is all set to help design labour policies that are conducive to the AI-driven economy.
Besides swift communication, social media also influences relationships, global cultural exchange and identity, which have now become in-depth topics of research. By recording changes, digital sociology can help address issues of digital addiction, online harassment and mental health issues.
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