Vulnerability Theory and Digital Intimacy: ‘Pillars of Shame’ in the Age of Big Data

I am excited to share with you a recap of my recent presentation titled “Vulnerability Theory and Digital Intimacy: ‘Pillars of Shame’ in the Age of Big Data.” This thought-provoking session took place at the Vulnerability Theory and Digital Intimacy Workshop, hosted by convened by Professor Martha Albertson Fineman and The Vulnerability and the Human Condition Initiative at Emory University School of Law on March 24, 2023.

During the presentation, I delved into the fascinating field of digital governance technologies and their role as modern public shaming rituals. I explored the impact of these technologies on individuals’ vulnerability in the digital age and drew connections to Martha Fineman’s vulnerability theory of law.

Throughout the session, I shed light on the intricate relationship between digital intimacy and vulnerability. I introduced the concept of “Pillars of Shame” to illustrate how digital platforms can become tools for public shaming, affecting individuals’ sense of self, privacy, and overall well-being.

By delving into this topic, I raised crucial questions about the ethical and social implications of the widespread use of digital technologies, and an appreciation of the potential consequences of digital shaming and its effects on individual lives. The presentation emphasized the need for a comprehensive understanding of vulnerability theory in the context of modern governance and digital rhetoric.

The ensuing discussion was lively and engaging, with attendees actively participating and sharing their perspectives. The workshop provided an invaluable opportunity for interdisciplinary dialogue, with participants from diverse backgrounds contributing their expertise to the conversation.

In conclusion, I highlighted the importance of continued research and collaboration in this field. The insights from my presentation have the potential to shape policy discussions and inform the development of legal frameworks that consider the vulnerability of individuals in the age of big data.

I extend my sincere appreciation to Professor Martha Albertson Fineman who organized and hosted the Vulnerability Theory and Digital Intimacy Workshop, and to all who attended this public scholarship event. Your presence and active involvement made the event a resounding success. I encourage you to continue the important conversations initiated during the workshop and explore the diverse perspectives and ideas that emerged.

 

Upcoming Emory REALC Faculty Spotlight Series lecture on Feb. 6

Upcoming Feb. 6 public lecture: “Social and Moral Engineering in the Age of Big Data: Personalized ‘Pillars of Shame’ and the Chinese Social Credit System”

Hosted by REALC Faculty Spotlight Series, Emory University
Format: Online
Time: Monday evening, Feb 6, 2023, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM (US Eastern Standard Time)
Event link https://emory.zoom.us/j/94409772969

For my upcoming Feb. 6 public lecture hosted by Emory REALC Faculty Spotlight Series, I will be discussing the legal and rhetorical dynamics of public shaming policy experiments in China, as a part of their ongoing Social Credit System project.

The construction of the Chinese Social Credit System (SCS) represents one of the most ambitious social engineering projects in post-Mao China. It is also arguably the most significant governance-by-data experiment thus far the 21st century. This lecture explores the ways in which the SCS project was prompted by a ritual impulse to inculcate Chinese societal moral character in the big data age.