Amplifying Inequalities Through Social Media

• In Event: Social Inequality and the Threats to Democracy

Abstract

Social rating systems like the pilot program announced by the Chinese government in 2014, which is set to be fully operational and mandatory by 2020, judge human behavior and update individual social scores in real time. These scores are intended to affect credit, housing, occupational, educational, and even partnership opportunities. Similar programs exist outside of China (e.g.; MyLife). However, China’s program is engineered to operate in conjunction with an extensive system of surveillance. I argue social rating systems serve to amplify existing inequalities. I also identify critical avenues for resistance.

Author

• Vera Leigh Fennell, Lehigh University