Undergraduate Seminar (398-0-84)

Topic

AI & Cyberpolitics

Instructors

Marc Jones

Meeting Info

Northwestern Qatar Room 3-216: Mon, Wed 8:30AM - 9:45AM (AST)

Overview of class

This course critically examines how artificial intelligence (AI), data colonialism, and digital technologies are transforming global power structures, with a focus on the Global South. Using a social constructivist approach, it explores the relationship between AI, cyberpolitics, and global inequality. In the first part, students will draw parallels between historical colonialism and AI, focusing on data extraction and how technologies developed in wealthy nations exploit vulnerable populations, such as through digital labor or surveillance in authoritarian regimes. Case studies will address issues like cyber sovereignty and governance in the Global South. The second half examines AI's role in racial control and algorithmic bias, with case studies on digital apartheid in South Africa and anti-Palestinian bias. The course also explores resistance movements pushing back against AI's oppressive potential. By the end, students will understand AI's global impact, particularly its potential to reinforce authoritarianism or promote justice.

Registration Requirements

Prerequisites: None

Open for cross-registration

Open to Sophomores and above, MIT majors only

Satisfies Media and Politics Minor & AI and Media Minor

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Registration is reserved for sophomore, juniors, and seniors only. Registration is reserved for NU Qatar COMM students.