How Do We Create a Digital Republic in the Twenty – First Century

Susskind argues that modern democracies face an existential challenge not from overt tyranny, but from the unchecked power of Big Tech. He draws on classical republican theory-centred on preventing domination and preserving civic freedom-to critique the current “market individualism” that treats tech as neutral market actors. This mindset allows tech firms to amass vast, opaque influence through data harvesting, algorithmic manipulation, and weak regulation, thereby operating as “fiefdoms” beyond meaningful democratic control. The solution, he argues, is the formation of a digital republic-a governance structure rooted in accountability, legal norms, ethical constraints, and public sovereignty over digital infrastructure.

To realize this vision, Susskind outlines several practical reforms:

• New legal standards that treat tech platforms as professional sectors subject to regulatory supervision.

• Public institutions like tech tribunals and citizen assemblies to arbitrate disputes and guide governance.
• Duties and codes of conduct for platform operators and technology professionals.

Deliberative mini-publics that can examine complex digital issues -e.g. algorithmic fairness or data use-and hold companies to account.