'Technologies of the self and other': how self-tracking technologies also shape the other. Issue 2 (30th April 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Gabriels, Katleen; Coeckelbergh, Mark
• Is Part Of: Journal of information, communication & ethics in society. Volume 17:Issue 2(2019)
• Page Start: 119
• Page End: 127
• Publication Date: 2019-04-30
• Subjects: Computer ethics -- Internet of Things -- Ethics of technology -- Quantified otherness -- Quantified selfhood -- Self-tracking technologies; Information technology -- Moral and ethical aspects -- Periodicals; Information society -- Moral and ethical aspects -- Periodicals; Information superhighway -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; Digital media -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; Digital communications -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; Computer networks -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; Computer security -- Periodicals; 303.4833
• DOI: 10.1108/JICES-12-2018-0094
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1477-996X

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: This paper aims to fill this gap (infra, originality) by providing a conceptual framework for discussing "technologies of the self and other, " by showing that, in most cases, self-tracking also involves other-tracking. Design/methodology/approach: In so doing, we draw upon Foucault's "technologies of the self" and present-day literature on self-tracking technologies. We elaborate on two cases and practical domains to illustrate and discuss this mutual process: first, the quantified workplace; and second, quantification by wearables in a non-clinical and self-initiated context. Findings: The main conclusion is that these shapings are never (morally) neutral and have ethical implications, such as regarding "quantified otherness, " a notion we propose to point at the risk that the other could become an object of examination and competition. Originality/value: Although there is ample literature on the quantified self, considerably less attention is given to how the relation with the other is being shaped by self-tracking technologies that allow data sharing (e.g. wearables or apps such as Strava or RunKeeper).