Abstract
As datafied smart cities emerge, existing inequalities deepen
and new forms of exclusions emerge. In response, terms such as “inclusive” and “people-centric” are now central to smart city agendas, yet
their inclusivity remains contested. This contribution brings together
perspectives from media studies, public governance, and urban studies
to clarify inclusion in smart cities. We identify three perspectives: (1)
technological inclusion (access to technology and information); (2) digital
social inclusion (cultural sensitivity, diversity, and representation); and (3)
doing inclusion (negotiation and co-creation). Using two empirical cases,
we explore research-by-design approaches to foster inclusion. Finally, we
argue that inclusion in smart cities emerges through dynamic, conflictual
relationships and ongoing negotiations between citizens, governments,
and other stakeholders over contentious issues like datafication.
and new forms of exclusions emerge. In response, terms such as “inclusive” and “people-centric” are now central to smart city agendas, yet
their inclusivity remains contested. This contribution brings together
perspectives from media studies, public governance, and urban studies
to clarify inclusion in smart cities. We identify three perspectives: (1)
technological inclusion (access to technology and information); (2) digital
social inclusion (cultural sensitivity, diversity, and representation); and (3)
doing inclusion (negotiation and co-creation). Using two empirical cases,
we explore research-by-design approaches to foster inclusion. Finally, we
argue that inclusion in smart cities emerges through dynamic, conflictual
relationships and ongoing negotiations between citizens, governments,
and other stakeholders over contentious issues like datafication.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Governing the Digital Society |
| Subtitle of host publication | Platforms, Artificial Intelligence, and Public Values |
| Editors | José van Dijk, Karin van Es, Anne Helmond, Fernando van der Vlist |
| Place of Publication | Amsterdam |
| Publisher | Amsterdam University Press |
| Chapter | 11 |
| Pages | 191-208 |
| ISBN (Electronic) | 9781003696902 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 2025 |
Keywords
- datafication
- digital inclusion
- smart urbanism
- co-creationprocesses
- civic engagement
