We convene researchers, policymakers, technologists, journalists, entrepreneurs, artists, and lawyers to challenge the power and purpose of technology in society.

Data & Society is an independent nonprofit research organization. We believe that empirical evidence should directly inform the development and governance of new technology. We study the social implications of data and automation, producing original research to ground informed, evidence-based public debate about emerging technology.We combine academic rigor with creative outreach to connect, convene, and sustain expert and practitioner networks. Since 2014, Data & Society has defined the field with original research and programming to break down disciplinary silos and connect provocative thinkers across sectors.

Our work acknowledges that the same innovative technologies and sociotechnical practices that are reconfiguring society – enabling novel modes of interaction, new opportunities for knowledge, and disruptive business practices and paradigms – can be abused to invade privacy, provide new tools of discrimination, and harm individuals and communities.The work and well-being of Data & Society is strengthened by the diversity of our network and our differences in background, culture, experience, and much more. We are committed to ensuring that a wide array of perspectives are heard, and that our research is made free and available to the public.

Statement of Independence

Data & Society is an independent, nonprofit 501(c)(3) research institute. We are committed to the independence and autonomy of Data & Society’s initiatives and convenings. We do not accept funding that would affect our ability to pursue work free of external interference, and we fiercely protect the independence of our researchers and fellows in their intellectual activities and individual funding relationships.

Read more in our statement on organizational independence and gift acceptance. 

Our Values

Our research and engagement hews to the following values:

Independence

Intellectual independence enables us to select our projects, choose methodologies, and make publishing decisions based solely on our analysis of the issues at hand, without political or financial influence. We never accept funding that would compromise the independence or rigor of our work.

Integrity

We build trust and accountability through our commitment to the independence and autonomy of our research, our transparent funding relationships and mutually shared organizational practices, and our inclusive outreach to a wide range of communities and individuals.

Equity

Out of a fundamental respect for diversity and a desire to challenge power relations in data-centric fields, we recognize and embrace differences among us. This requires equitable hiring and retention, centering community experiences in our research, and adhering to the principles of diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility in everything we do.

Mutuality

We value reciprocal relationships — not only with other institutions but with the people and communities affected by data-centric technologies. We cultivate respect and mutual responsibility by appreciating our distinct and complementary strengths, actively listening to each other, and striving to understand our shared goals and differences, while being mindful of unequal power dynamics.

Creativity

We support interdisciplinary work and deeply value creative expression. Externally, this means supporting original thinking that challenges dominant narratives and engages multiple audiences. Internally, we enable risk-taking research and explore thoughtful engagements.

Highlights