Geomedia: Manifestations of Power as Mediatized Communication Practices – A Foucauldian Approach

Abstract

The pervasive integration of geomedia in urban societies changes the perception and appropriation of space by influencing everyday modes of connectivity while also changing manifestations of power. Geomedia and the resulting datasets thus enable new types of platform capitalism and surveillance, but also possible empowerment. At the current level of 'permanent spatial connectivity', power becomes relational and liquid, and manifests within structures ((machine learning) algorithms and codes) rather than people. (Geo)mediatization theory addresses underlying power relations critically; in this paper, it is complemented by Foucault's theories of power. His conception of power as 'fluid', diffused and disembodied is adopted as a fruitful concept in the analysis of geomedia and spatial practices within digital networks.

On the social construction of geomedia technologies

“…Currently, a new set of media technologies are being praised for their progressive powers—what we in this special issue refer to as geomedia technologies (cf. Abend, 2017; Atteneder, 2018; DeNicola, 2012; Fast, Jansson, Lindell, Bengtsson, & Tesfahuney, 2018; Lapenta, 2011, 2012; McQuire, 2011, 2016, 2018; Thielmann, 2007, 2010; Wilken, 2018). This multifaceted group of media devices, hardwares, and softwares have one thing in common: they are inherently place contingent, meaning that they automatically register and respond to user location.…”