Technological Sovereignty

Definition

Technological sovereignty refers to the ability of a nation or community to control and govern its own technology, including the development, deployment, and maintenance of technological systems. This concept highlights the importance of self-determination in technology, particularly in terms of avoiding dependency on external entities for technological needs, thus ensuring that technological advancements align with local values and priorities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Technological sovereignty is crucial for ensuring that communities can tailor technology to meet their specific needs and cultural values.
2. It often involves advocating for policies that support local tech development, manufacturing, and digital literacy.
3. Communities pursuing technological sovereignty may emphasize the importance of open source solutions to reduce dependence on major tech corporations.
4. Technological sovereignty is increasingly recognized as essential in discussions around privacy, data protection, and national security.
5. The movement for technological sovereignty can empower marginalized groups by providing them tools to resist external control and assert their autonomy.

Review Questions

• How does technological sovereignty empower communities in managing their technological needs?
  • Technological sovereignty empowers communities by giving them the authority to control how technology is developed and used in their contexts. This control allows them to align technological advancements with their specific cultural values and societal needs. By prioritizing local development and self-determination, communities can avoid reliance on outside entities that may not prioritize their interests.
• Discuss the implications of digital colonialism on the quest for technological sovereignty.
  • Digital colonialism poses significant challenges to technological sovereignty as it often leads to foreign entities dominating the digital landscape in less powerful countries. This domination can result in a loss of local control over data and technology, undermining efforts for self-determination. To combat this, movements advocating for technological sovereignty must address these power imbalances and seek to create independent technological infrastructures that serve local populations.
• Evaluate the role of Indigenous knowledge systems in fostering technological sovereignty among Indigenous communities.
  • Indigenous knowledge systems play a vital role in fostering technological sovereignty by providing insights into sustainable practices and culturally relevant technologies. These systems promote an understanding of the land and resources that can inform community-based technological solutions. By integrating traditional knowledge with modern technology, Indigenous communities can assert their autonomy while developing technologies that reflect their values, ultimately leading to more effective and meaningful technological sovereignty.

Related terms

Digital Colonialism: A term used to describe the exploitation of digital technologies by powerful nations or corporations to dominate less powerful countries, often leading to a loss of local control over technology and data.

Open Source Technology: Software and hardware that is developed and made available for use, modification, and distribution by anyone, promoting collaborative development and reducing reliance on proprietary technology.

Indigenous Knowledge Systems: Traditional knowledge held by Indigenous communities that encompasses their understandings of nature, culture, and technology, which can inform sustainable practices and support technological sovereignty.