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Peoples & Things

Aure Schrock on Politics Recoded: The Infrastructural Organizing of Code for America

Feb 24, 2025
Aure Schrock, an interdisciplinary technology scholar and editor at Indelible Voice, dives into the evolution of Code for America. The conversation reveals how the organization shifted from a tech-forward vision to providing digital consulting services for local governments. Schrock discusses challenges in integrating technology, the significance of empathetic civic engagement, and the grassroots efforts to enhance community participation. Their insights shed light on the intricate relationship between technology and local politics, all while emphasizing the importance of effective communication and academic writing.
01:36:09

Episode guests

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Quick takeaways

  • The concept of 'critical' has been diluted in academia, straying from its original intent to foster deep inquiry into societal norms.
  • The evolution of civic technology reflects a shift from networked engagement to a pragmatic form of infrastructural politics, empowering individuals to engage with government functions.

Deep dives

The Misuse of 'Critical' in Academia

The discussion highlights how the term 'critical' has been misappropriated within humanities and social sciences, leading to its dilution and potential misunderstanding. Originally, thinkers like Immanuel Kant emphasized a reflexive investigation of reason aimed at recognizing its limitations, while later scholars of the Frankfurt School built on this to critically analyze societal norms and assumptions. However, contemporary academic practices often reduce 'critical' discussions to oversimplified narratives, primarily casting corporations against the populace. This shift not only misrepresents the true essence of critical inquiry but also hampers genuine understanding and learning about complex socio-technological dynamics.

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