PC: A key tension I see here is between open / universalized / decontextualized (typically quantitative or at the least, digital) data, and localized, particular, (often qualitative but not always) data. Open data on the one hand allows for effective data sharing, easier access to data for otherwise marginal populations, the ability to critique/monitor those in power… On the other hand, universalized data opens up populations to observation by powerful, external actors. That data is easy to port and therefore can easily be sold and used… Localized and particular data infrastructures keeps knowledge within the community (and therefore within community control), but also siloes information… A core concern here then is power… Grace makes the point down the line that there is a “huge asymmetry between the people who produce the information and the people who analyze the data.”
