The Political Economy of Digital Monopolies: Contradictions and Alternatives to Data Commodification

Description

A critical account of the social and structural issues in the digital world that uniquely combines three Marxian perspectives. At a time when the practices of technology companies continue to attract fierce criticism, this book asks what it actually means to hold a "monopoly" in the tech world and how it might affect the way in which an organisation operates. Combining new and traditional Marxian perspectives, the authors offer an in-depth analysis of how these technology giants are produced, financialised, and regulated. As technology firms continue to shape our political and socio-economic landscape, this book will be an invaluable resource for scholars and students who seek to understand the function of technological monopolies in contemporary capitalism.

Pasko Bilic is a research associate at the Institute for Development and International Relations in Zagreb. Toni Prug is an independent researcher based in Croatia. Mislav Zitko is a lecturer in Philosophy at the University of Zagreb.

"Our world has come to be dominated by a few giant high-tech corporations whose power and impact have, rightly, drawn much comment. However, rigorous analysis of their financial and monopolistic character is scarce. In this thoughtful book the authors creatively apply Marxist theory to help us understand the role and significance of these digital titans." Peter Golding, Northumbria University "The utopian promises made at the start of 'the digital age' have not come true. If you wish to understand why - and why Marx remains indispensable - read this book!" Tony Smith, Iowa State University "In this thoroughly researched and clearly written book, critical theory confronts the concentration of power in cyber-monopolies to advance our understanding of digital capitalism. The authors skilfully assess proposals for both reform and social transformation." Vincent Mosco, author of The Smart City in a Digital World