The Reality of Data-Driven Campaigning

Impossible Tradeoffs with Katie Harbath

Kate Dommett, a professor of digital politics, discusses her book “Data-Driven Campaigning and Political Parties” and her research on how political parties use data in election campaigns. She explores the prevailing narratives around data-driven campaigning and how they often do not match reality. Dommett also discusses the role of regulation in data-driven campaigning and the potential threats to democracy. She emphasizes the need for a nuanced understanding of data use in campaigns and the importance of considering the regulatory environment and data security.

Takeaways

* Data-driven campaigning is not a new phenomenon, but the use of digital technology has disrupted traditional accountability systems.

* The regulatory environment and electoral systems vary across countries, leading to different practices in data-driven campaigning.

* Campaigns use data for targeting, mobilization, and message development, but the level of sophistication varies.

* The role of online platforms in data-driven campaigning raises questions about access, responsibility, and unintended consequences.

* Data security is a significant concern in data-driven campaigning, especially for smaller parties with limited resources.

* Academic research should draw on historical lessons and theory to provide a responsible and nuanced understanding of the impact of new technologies, such as AI, on elections.

Chapters

* Introduction and Background

* Types of Data and Decision-Making

* Role of Online Platforms in Data-Driven Campaigning

* Concerns and Challenges in Data-Driven Campaigning

* Responsible Research on New Technologies in Elections

Links

* Katharine Dommett, Glenn Kefford, and Simon Kruschinski, Data-Driven Campaigning and Political Parties

* Amy Orben, The Sisyphean Cycle of Technology Panics

* Fabio Votta at al. Who Does(n't) Target You? Mapping the Worldwide Usage of Online Political Microtargeting

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