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Artificial Intelligence for Social Innovation: Beyond the Noise of Algorithms and Datafication

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  • Igor Calzada

    (Public Policy & Economic History Department, Faculty of Economy and Business, University of the Basque Country, UPV-EHU, Oñati Square 1, 20018 Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain
    Basque Foundation for Science, Ikerbasque, Plaza Euskadi 5, 48009 Bilbao, Spain
    School of Social Sciences, Social Science Research Park (Sbarc/Spark), Wales Institute of Social and Economic Research and Data (WISERD), Cardiff University, Maindy Road, Cathays, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK
    Decentralization Research Centre, 545 King St. W, Toronto, ON W5V 1M1, Canada)

Abstract

In an era of rapid technological advancement, decisions about the ownership and governance of emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence will shape the future of both urban and rural environments in the Global North and South. This article explores how AI can move beyond the noise of algorithms by adopting a technological humanistic approach to enable Social Innovation, focusing on global inequalities and digital justice. Using a fieldwork Action Research methodology, based on the Smart Rural Communities project in Colombia and Mozambique, the study develops a framework for integrating AI with SI. Drawing on insights from the AI4SI International Summer School held in Donostia-San Sebastián in 2024, the article examines the role of decentralized Web3 technologies—such as Blockchain, Decentralized Autonomous Organizations, and Data Cooperatives—in enhancing data sovereignty and fostering inclusive and participatory governance. The results demonstrate how decentralization can empower marginalized communities in the Global South by promoting digital justice and addressing the imbalance of power in digital ecosystems. The conclusion emphasizes the potential for AI and decentralized technologies to bridge the digital divide, offering practical recommendations for scaling these innovations to support equitable, community-driven governance and address systemic inequalities across the Global North and South.

Suggested Citation

  • Igor Calzada, 2024. "Artificial Intelligence for Social Innovation: Beyond the Noise of Algorithms and Datafication," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(19), pages 1-25, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:16:y:2024:i:19:p:8638-:d:1493045
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Utrata, Alina, 2024. "Engineering Territory: Space and Colonies in Silicon Valley," American Political Science Review, Cambridge University Press, vol. 118(3), pages 1097-1109, August.
    2. Cristina Viano & Sowelu Avanzo & Monica Cerutti & Alex Cordero & Claudio Schifanella & Guido Boella, 2022. "Blockchain tools for socio-economic interactions in local communities [Blockchain-based smart contracts: A systematic mapping study]," Policy and Society, Darryl S. Jarvis and M. Ramesh, vol. 41(3), pages 373-385.
    3. Igor Calzada, 2023. "Smart Rural Communities: Action Research in Colombia and Mozambique," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(12), pages 1-23, June.
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