Biopower & data

In her book BioMachtData, Sophie Reyer looks at data and the phenomenon of “dataism,” the homage paid to the unlimited flow of data. She describes “dataism” as a theory that has evolved into a veritable religion, yielding not only prophecies but also commandments, such as “Increase the flow of data!” Which means, in essence, “Consume and produce!” In the process, humanity recedes into the background, and the free flow or even flood of information becomes the new value.

Based on Michel Foucault’s concept of biopower, Reyer develops artistic-philosophical approaches in words and verbal images – in the form of essays, monologues, dialogues, and theatrical fragments. She examines various figures of dataism, from incels to nerds and heroines.