About
The core theme of Patrick’s work is that markets and technology are not some ‘universal’ entity. Instead, their use is highly adapted to local sociocultural contexts. For instance, how things are bought and sold differs markedly between Canada and Ghana, and between rural and urban Ghana. Similarly, while basic internet technology is shared between India and Niger, how this technology is used and understood differs vastly. The reason he focuses so strongly on this non-universality is that ‘bad things’ happen when we incorrectly assume universality; if we assume that because artificial intelligence can be beneficial in some situations, it is always beneficial, we do so at society’s peril, especially when AI’s use is interwoven with power differences and a history of colonialism. Thus, it is critical to understand how local communities understand a technology or market structure, such that their use can be appropriately customized, preserving individual agency and power.
Relevant Publications
Kistruck, G. M., & Shulist, P. 2020. Linking management theory with poverty alleviation efforts through market orchestration. Journal of Business Ethics. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10551-020-04533-1.
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CIFAR is a registered charitable organization supported by the governments of Canada, Alberta and Quebec, as well as foundations, individuals, corporations and Canadian and international partner organizations.