The book Collaborative Research in the Datafied Society: Methods and Practices for Investigation and Intervention (2024, Amsterdam University Press) has been recommended by DUB (the independent news site of Utrecht University) in their December 2024 book review. This book was edited by Mirko Tobias Schäfer (Science Lead at Data School), Karin van Es (Humanities Lead at Data School), and Tracey P. Lauriault (Carleton University).

DUB review of Collaborative Research in the Datafied Society

Can universities change the world? According to Collaborative Research in the Datafied Society, edited by Mirko Tobias Schäfer, Karin van Es and Tracey P. Lauriault, the answer is a resounding “yes” – provided they break through the walls of academia. UU scientists Schäfer and Van Es play a prominent role in this book, which shows how cooperation between researchers and social partners can be not only necessary but also revolutionary.

The book offers a rich collection of examples of how universities can tackle complex social issues. One of them is Data Against Feminicide, a project against gender-based violence that involved data scientists and activists. They teamed up to develop digital tools to make figures about murdered women more visible. Another example is the collaboration between researchers and local governments for the DataWorkplace project, which explores how governments can use data and AI to develop fairer and more transparent services. Fairwork Project offers a critical look at unfair practices perpetrated by companies like Uber, looking to enforce better working conditions in the platform economy.

The book also explores theoretical issues around collaboration. For example, how can academics remain neutral when they are actively involved in policy-making? What does it mean to make science open and inclusive in a world increasingly dominated by datafication?

What makes this work truly thought-provoking is its call to action. The authors ask if universities dare to go beyond papers and theories. Do they dare to collaborate with policymakers, businesses and citizens to increase its impact? Utrecht University seems to be leading by example, but the question remains whether others will follow.

With gripping insights and real-life stories, this book is not only a manual for researchers but also a wake-up call for academia. After all, as evidenced in the book, collaboration is no longer optional, it is essential.”

Phine Hazelbag for DUB

Other book reviews

More reviews for Collaborative Research in the Datafied Society have been shared by experts in the field:

Datafication is profoundly changing societies, often in concerning ways. It also opens possibilities for critical social action, so far little explored. This groundbreaking collection convenes a terrific range of leading international writers to showcase collaborative research into this important phenomenon.”

Nick Couldry, Professor of Media, Communications and Social Theory, London School of Economics and Political Science

Thinking and doing, mens et manus …. this provocative collection of perspectives, methods, theories, and case studies on data and society is above all a testament to the power of collaborative, societally-engaged, and applied research. The plurality of voices and experiences gathered in these pages demonstrate the assertion that the more complex the problem, the more crucial are collaborative solutions.”

William Uricchio, Emeritus Professor of Comparative Media Studies, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Schäfer, van Es and Lauriault have brought together an impressive collection of authors, case studies and data practices. Separately and together, the chapters provide theoretical inspiration and practical advice to help the rest of us engage in meaningful collaborations across disciplines and beyond the confines of the university.”

Sally Wyatt, Professor of Digital Cultures, Maastricht University

A deep dive into dynamics, challenges and urgency of collaborative research in the datafied society, this critical collection showcases how academia and society jointly can drive impactful change. It is an essential reading for anyone willing to engage in research that matters.”

Stefania Milan, Professor of Critical Data Studies, University of Amsterdam and European University Institute

About the book

Collaborative Research in the Datafied Society offers a combination of theoretical insights, practical methodologies, and case studies. It showcases the power of collaborative research with stakeholders across diverse communities and civil society, to tackle the pressing challenges of our datafied society.

In an era shaped by austerity and neoliberal ideologies, the role and relevance of academic institutions are being redefined. This volume explores how universities can transcend their institutional boundaries by partnering with stakeholders and civil society. Through such collaboration, academia can promote democratic engagement, drive knowledge economies, and address critical social justice issues. Combining theoretical insights, practical methodologies, and real-world case studies, this book offers an essential resource for advancing societally engaged research.