Algorithm-Human Interactions in a Revolutionary Situation: Hidden & Public Transcripts of Digital Resistance in Myanmar

Wednesday, 09 October 2024 | 09:00 to 11:00 EDT | Room 857, Eighth Floor, Kaneff Tower, Keele Campus, York University and virtually via Zoom

With Thiha Wint Aung

Respondent: Elisha Lim, York University

This paper explores the dynamic interplay between human agency and AI-driven technologies within the context of Myanmar’s socio-political upheaval, particularly following the 2021 military coup. The research critically examines how resistance actors strategically navigate, manipulate, and engage with platform algorithms and generative AI to sustain resistance movements, despite the constraints imposed by digital platforms and algorithmic governance. These platforms, often governed by global capitalist interests and liberal biases against explicit political violence, present both opportunities and challenges for those mobilizing against repressive regimes.

This event is part of the Burma Past and Present: Religion, Ethnicity and Power, a series of readings and discussion of works in progress. We will be reading and discussing work in progress with the author. Please email hmlwin@yorku.ca to receive a copy of the reading.

This event is hybrid. Virtual attendees should register at this link.