A publication of the Association of College and Research Libraries
A division of the American Library Association
Editorial Offices: 575 Main Street, Suite 300, Middletown, CT 06457-3445
Phone: (860) 347-6933
Fax: (860) 704-0465

FOR INTERNAL USE ONLY

Please do not link to this page.

July 2024 Vol. 61 No. 11

Using the analogy of land-based colonialism, the authors dramatically point out the powerlessness and other negative consequences of people unwittingly giving up their personal data to large corporations. Drawing on numerous historical and international examples, the authors argue that in the age of data colonialism, relatively few corporations, beyond the purview of individuals and government, amass, develop patterns, and use data for key decisions, which are based more on profit than societal well-being. By cataloging the numerous ways people give up data and using real-world examples of seemingly inappropriate data collection and usage, the authors sensitize the readers to the problem. Just as in land-based colonialism, data colonialism features an imbalance in who benefits from extraction and a natural progression of negative outcomes. The authors draw on a broad range of sources, many of them unexpected, to make their points. Going beyond description, their analysis outlines individual and collective tools to rectify the situation. The discussion gives meaning to fears about artificial intelligence and has the potential to guide policymakers as they come to grips with the existence of Big Data.

--S. E. Frantzich, emeritus, United States Naval Academy

Summing Up: Highly recommended. Graduate students, faculty, and professionals.