Threats to Democracy in Brazil: Technofeudalism and Its Impact on Democratic Institutions

Brazil’s democracy is threatened by technofeudalism, a new order where digital monopolies control power and manipulate public narratives, exacerbating social inequalities. Major issues include digital colonization, erosion of stable jobs, disinformation, and loss of sovereignty. While Brazil has initiated protections like the Marco Civil, ongoing challenges demand urgent action to reinforce democratic institutions and public accountability, emphasizing the importance of directing technology to serve democracy.

In contemporary society, democracy faces multiple threats, ranging from corruption and political violence to the rise of technofeudalism. Cédric Durand’s term, technofeudalism, describes a system where digital monopolies control power, wealth, and political narratives, deepening social inequalities and manipulating public perceptions for their benefit.

The early 21st century promised a digital revolution aimed at decentralizing power and democratizing access to information. Instead, we have witnessed an ascent of corporate monopolies dictating the flow of information and interactions, leading to a scenario where platforms like Google, Amazon, Meta, and Microsoft exert more influence than ever. This concentration of power turns users into digital subjects obligated to pay fees or relinquish personal data for services.

In Brazil, the implications of technofeudalism are particularly acute due to prevalent economic inequalities and fragile institutions. With foreign tech companies heavily influencing political and economic landscapes, it raises crucial questions regarding the true status of Brazil’s democracy in the digital age. There are several threats posed by technofeudalism that merit exploration, including:

1. Digital Colonization: Foreign tech entities exploit personal data from Brazilian citizens without accountability, undermining local sovereignty.
2. Erosion of Formal Labor: The gig economy, driven by companies such as Uber and iFood, has replaced traditional jobs with unstable, low-paying positions devoid of workers’ rights.
3. Manipulation of Information: Disinformation campaigns proliferate distrust in democratic institutions, with right-wing groups manipulating social media to undermine governance.
4. Extreme Inequality: As digital corporations accumulate wealth, economic disparity widens, relegating many to a serf-like status dependent on these platforms for survival.
5. Loss of Economic and Political Sovereignty: Brazil’s reliance on foreign digital services often leads to disregard for national regulations, eroding the government’s ability to enforce its policies.

The roots of technofeudalism can be traced to a history of neoliberal economic policies that have weakened state capacities and empowered corporate dominance. Wendy Brown’s analysis in “In the Ruins of Neoliberalism” highlights how such ideologies facilitate authoritarian politics by degrading the foundations of democracy, leading to the present environment where extreme inequalities and disinformation take hold.

A recent case illustrating technofeudalism’s dangerous reach involved Elon Musk’s refusal to comply with the Brazilian Supreme Court regarding extremist content on his platform X (formerly Twitter). Musk’s actions underscore a troubling trend where tech billionaires perceive themselves as exempt from compliance with national laws, undermining Brazilian sovereignty and democratic authority.

Despite these challenges, Brazil has taken steps to protect digital rights. The Marco Civil da Internet, established in 2014, was a pioneering effort to safeguard internet freedom and hold platforms accountable, although its enforcement remains contested by large corporations.

As we navigate the complexities of free speech, it becomes apparent that Silicon Valley’s platforms reshape democratic discourse and often prioritize profit over democratic principles. By promoting a skewed interpretation of free speech, these corporations threaten democratic stability through the proliferation of extremist content, as evidenced by the January 8, 2023, attacks in Brasília, which were catalyzed by disinformation previously amplified on these platforms.

This corporate-driven dialogue of free speech inflicts epistemic violence, reshaping societal constructs of democracy and dissent. Persistent economic inequality exacerbates these issues, as seen in a rise of violence linked to misinformation in Brazil. The implications are dire; corporate actors remain shielded from accountability under the aegis of free speech, despite the real-world consequences of their platforms.

The challenges posed by technofeudalism necessitate urgent action. Brazil must enhance regulations to ensure digital accountability, invest in independent digital infrastructure, combat disinformation effectively, adapt labor rights for gig workers, and promote media literacy in society.

In conclusion, Brazil finds itself at a pivotal juncture. If technofeudal influences prevail, national sovereignty, economic equity, and political accountability will be at risk. However, through decisive action—regulatory enforcement, worker empowerment, and reclamation of digital control—the nation can forge a pathway to a democratic digital future. The defense of democracy extends beyond traditional political arenas into the digital realm, calling for collective resistance against digital colonialism, ensuring technology serves democracy rather than undermining it.

In summary, Brazil must confront the multifaceted threats posed by technofeudalism which undermine its democratic integrity. By implementing robust regulations, fostering local digital infrastructures, and enhancing public understanding of digital rights, Brazil can reclaim its sovereignty. The struggle for a resilient democracy must encompass both the online and offline spheres, ensuring that the influence of corporate powers does not eclipse the democratic aspirations of its citizens.

Original Source: www.techpolicy.press