Data & Society

Data & Society studies the social implications of data-centric technologies, automation, and AI.

Through empirical research and active engagement, our work illuminates the values and decisions that drive these systems — and shows why they must be grounded in equity and human dignity.

How societies choose to design and govern technology will determine our collective future. As part of a vibrant and growing field, we work to highlight these stakes and help shape solutions.

The Latest from Data & Society

Apply by January 19: With trust in decline, our forthcoming workshop will move toward a concept of trust as a relational process. Together, we'll develop theories about how trust and mistrust shape data-centric technologies and the ways they unfold.

Commentary

Unpacking the AI Executive Order

In an in-depth piece for Brookings, Senior Policy Fellow Sorelle Friedler, Executive Director Janet Haven, and Policy Director Brian J. Chen explain how the AI executive order and OMB guidance prepare the federal government to be a model for accountable AI — and why congressional action is still needed.

Explainer

Challenging Worker Datafication

Digital technologies have enabled unprecedented expansion in the volume and kinds of data collected about workers. But who has control over deciding what the data means, where it goes, and how it is used? In this explainer, Alexandra Mateescu outlines recent approaches to worker data and explores ongoing questions, critiques, and possibilities.

Op-Ed

Resisting the Siren Song of "AI Safety"

Statement of Independence

Data & Society is an independent, nonprofit 501(c)(3) research institute. We are committed to the independence and autonomy of Data & Society’s initiatives and convenings. We do not accept funding that would affect our ability to pursue work free of external interference, and we fiercely protect the independence of our researchers and fellows in their intellectual activities and individual funding relationships. Read more in our statement on organizational independence and gift acceptance.