Automation and Social Futures

Automation and Social Futures engages with the ethical, political, social, organisational, cultural and governance implications of machine learning, algorithmic decision-making and digital infrastructures. 

The research will investigate the intersection of technology and the human experience, using methods ranging from data analytics to close level ethnographic approaches. 

Possible areas of investigation include the complex interrelations between technology design and technologies in use; social media platforms; ethics and future automation of memory and heritage practices; impact of algorithms on identity; deep fakes and disinformation campaigns; autonomous vehicles; smart city infrastructures; blockchain as infrastructure; supply chain systems.

This program places strong focus on building better potential futures for our communities by critically examining the politics and ethics behind both norms and governance around automated decision-making systems, especially important in times of continuous and rapid change. 

2001/2002

Projects

Multi-Entity Relations

Focused on the granular everyday interactions among multi-species entities -- human, nonhuman, and more than human, to explore how relations are negotiated and maintained.

Responsible Data Science

This project revives longstanding debates around the value and challenges of interdisciplinarity through a series of six guided conversations in 2022

Rendering of iconic trams in Melbourne

The Digital CBD

This project investigates the acceleration of digital technology and related impacts on the city of Melbourne

Understanding algorithmic distribution in the Australian media industry

This project examines how the use of algorithms to distribute content on social media platforms is affecting the Australian news media sector.

International Science and Evidence-based Education (ISEE)

This initiative will seek to develop a substantial document that offers the 193 UNESCO Member States an evidence-based assessment of education in order to cultivate human flourishing.