Elisabeth Hödl

Big Data, Facebook & Bitcoins: on the cultural evolution of digitalization

The massive growth in digital data and their use have led to fundamental change on world markets. The socio-economic transformation of working and living environments has long been apparent. Ever more processes are being automated and data analyses harnessed to make production more efficient. Data are stored in gigantic clouds and network infrastructure is improved in order to raise the speed of data flow. At the same time, new payment systems are being developed, such as virtual currencies. Nations are obliged to deal with the new challenges of digitalization and to recognise risks and opportunities.