Modern states are set apart from previous world-historical forms of political organization by an unparalleled capacity to survey and manipulate the behavior of their societies, and to “discipline and punish” deviant behavior. From birth registers to passports to court systems and prisons, states have mobilized technology to control their citizens and subjects. Today, such capacity is increasingly wielded by private corporations, at times in concert with or at the behest of states, but just as often monopolistically and at their own discretion. This research field concerns the use of technology–by states or by corporations–to control populations.
Brian Jefferson highlights key concepts and discussions on information technology, surveillance, carceral governance, and border patrol. Specifically, this field review explores the evolution of information communication technology and racial surveillance from the late nineteenth century until the present.
Amelia Gibson and Rua Williams explore academic scholarship and public discussion around disability access and accessibility and problematize the idea that disabled people truly have access to technology in contexts where they do not control technology.
