To this end, INCA will conduct three workflows: firstly, it will produce a robust socio-historical overview of the transformations brought about by the development of big-tech platforms, with a particular focus on the so-called GAFAM, considered as fundamental infrastructures for today’s political, economic and social life. We assume that a robust theoretical framework supports a better understanding of the challenges digital platforms raise today. Secondly, through an empirical stream of research, INCA aims to furnish qualitative and quantitative data for understanding the way platforms influence law-making processes, industrial relations and citizens’ opinions. And thirdly, INCA will sustain citizens’ and democratic institutions’ participation in the formulation of policies and testing of alternatives for a fairer development and accountability of the platform economy. A number of participatory actions will be organised in this stream of research.
These three workflows will be carried out in three different dimensions or spheres where the big-tech companies deploy their power: Politics, economics and culture. Hence, the project will fulfil the abovementioned three steps in each of these three dimensions.