Platformisation of the Public Space

This chapter explores how digitalisation and platformisation have changed the infrastructure and operation of the public space. Access to and use of the internet has largely come into the hands of big platform and technology corporations. Search engines and social media have developed superior advertising models, driven by algorithmic recommendation systems based on detailed user data. In a context of abundant supply, attention is scarce and must be fought for. The chapter discusses how diverse parties navigate this environment, by personalizing content, targeting audiences, and engaging in connective action. It concludes by a brief discussion of current policies that seek to regulate this digital domain.