You Must Become an Algorithmic Problem: Renegotiating the Socio-Technical Contract

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José Marichal (California Lutheran University)

You Must Become an Algorithmic Problem

Renegotiating the Socio-Technical Contract

José Marichal (California Lutheran University)

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Paperback

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English

Bristol University Press
16 September 2025

Media studies; Civil rights & citizenship; Information technology industries; Ethical & social aspects of computing; Digital lifestyle

In the age of AI, where personal data fuels corporate profits and state surveillance, what are the implications for democracy?

This incisive book explores the unspoken agreement we have with tech companies. In exchange for reducing the anxiety of an increasingly complex online world, we submit to algorithmic classification and predictability. This reduces incentives for us to become ""algorithmic problems"" with dire consequences for liberal democracy. He calls for a movement to demand that algorithms promote play, creativity and potentiality rather than conformity.

This is a must-read for anyone navigating the intersection of technology, politics and identity in an increasingly data-driven world.

By: José Marichal (California Lutheran University)
Imprint: Bristol University Press
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
Dimensions: Height: 234mm, Width: 156mm,
ISBN: 9781529244724
ISBN 10: 1529244722
Pages: 146
Publication Date: 16 September 2025
Audience: Professional and scholarly , General/trade , Undergraduate , ELT Advanced
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Forthcoming

Introduction: You Must Remain an Algorithmic Problem Chapter 1: How Much of a Problem are We? Chapter 2: The Politics of Optimization Chapter 3: The Problem for Democracy Chapter 4: The Algorithmic Contract and its Discontents Chapter 5: The Classification Economy Chapter 6: Optimizing Identity Chapter 7: Algorithmic Obligation

José Marichal is Professor of Political Science at California Lutheran University.

Reviews for You Must Become an Algorithmic Problem: Renegotiating the Socio-Technical Contract

‘In this groundbreaking work, Marichal breathes new life into liberal contract theory, skilfully applying it to examine how algorithms shape our choices and decisions in the digital age.’ Scott Timcke, Research ICT Africa