[Air-L] New MA in Surveillance Studies: Digitalisation, Surveillance & Societies

[Daniel Trottier]

New MA in Surveillance Studies: *Digitalisation, Surveillance & Societies *

https://www.eur.nl/en/master/digitalisation-surveillance-societies



We are proud to introduce our new Master Programme entitled
“Digitalisation, Surveillance & Societies”, starting next academic year
(2021-2022) at Erasmus University Rotterdam, in the Netherlands.



While digitalisation brings many opportunities, big data, artificial
intelligence (AI), and social media platforms involve an unprecedented
collection of personal information and raise global challenges about
privacy and security. Social media monitoring and manipulation can sway
elections, spark civil strife and help predict expected social patterns and
behaviour. Algorithms determine who gets to see which online information
and advertisements, but also who is considered a public threat. In everyday
life, many very useful apps and tools may provide the potential for new
forms of (unwanted) surveillance.  Surveillance cameras make it possible
for neighbours to report suspicious activity on WhatsApp groups and
participate in local official and unofficial policing practices. Location
tracking of family and friends is perceived to be both caring and
controlling. Health and lifestyle apps promote physical and emotional
well-being, all the while provoking their own privacy and ethical concerns.



The integration of digital technologies into a range of everyday practices
create and perpetuate a number of contemporary and cross-sector issues that
require better understanding and critical reflection about data collection,
discrimination, privacy violations, and disruptions by and through digital
media. The MA programme “Digitalisation, Surveillance & Societies” enables
students to develop scientifically informed responses to these challenges
by focusing on social, intercultural, political, technical, and
international dimensions of digitalisation. It advances evaluative thinking
and problem-solving skills that are vital for socially responsible
technology design, as well as developing effective personal, social,
organisational, political and policy responses or strategies to digital
media practices. Understanding societal implications of digitalisation
allows citizens, companies and governments to harness their potential while
safeguarding the interests of those who could be vulnerable or exploited by
them.



Please refer to our website for more information:
https://www.eur.nl/en/master/digitalisation-surveillance-societies.



Additionally, any questions can be directed to either Daniel Trottier (
trottier at eshcc.eur.nl) or to our team at:
https://www.eur.nl/en/master/digitalisation-surveillance-societies/contact .



With best wishes,

Daniel



Daniel Trottier, PhD

Associate Professor
Dept. of Media & Communication

Erasmus School of History, Culture and Communication
Erasmus University Rotterdam
P.O. Box 1738, 3000 DR Rotterdam
The Netherlands

trottier at eshcc.eur.nl