Review of "The Platform Society. Public Values in a Connective World", by José van Dijck, Thomas Poell, and Martijn de Waal

Abstract

In a society based on sharing economy and personalized services, the book The Platform Society. Public Values in a Connective World is focused on a relevant contemporary issue, that of the platform-driven change of society. The book offers a comprehensive view of a connected world (p.2) where several areas of society are subject to change. By using techniques that enable connectedness and supported by a participatory culture, platforms contribute to the development of a society that is less dependent on legacy institutions. The central issue addressed in this book is how public values and sectorial activities are shaped by platforms nowadays. According to the authors, the accountability for a balanced platform society is held by three major categories of actors: corporations, governments, and the civil society.