Algorithmic governmentality in Latin America: Sociotechnical imaginaries, neocolonial soft power, and authoritarianism

Abstract

Latin America stands as one of the most unequal regions globally, where economic and social crises persist regardless of the ideological leanings of the ruling governments. Many countries in the region grapple with pervasive issues such as corruption, impunity, and a lack of adherence to the rule of law. In this context of generalized crisis, governments have turned to discourses of innovation and technological progress to justify their actions, advocating for the incorporation of automated systems into public administration. Algorithmic governmentality, the government of the social world through the algorithmic processing of data, emerges as a political rationality. Drawing from recent contributions in the theory of governmentality and critical data studies, our commentary centers on three critical dimensions: algorithmic governmentality as political rationality manifested in sociotechnical imaginaries; as an expression of soft power wielded by the U.S. government over the region; and the means by which regional governments automate social asymmetries and social control. This commentary delves into the intricate dynamics of algorithmic governmentality in Latin America, shedding light on its multifaceted implications for governance, democracy, and social structures in the region.