Susskind argues that technological innovation-from AI and algorithms to the Internet of Things-is reshaping the foundations of political life by merging the digital with the real into a new “digital lifeworld.” In this world, code becomes law: software doesn’t just assist but actively forces behaviour (like self-driving cars obeying speed limits), scrutinizes us (through extensive data collection), and controls perceptions (via algorithmically filtered news and social media), all of which grant immense power to those who design and deploy digital systems-particularly Big Tech and governments.
To respond, Susskind offers a powerful theoretical and practical framework, rethinking key democratic concepts-liberty, justice, power, and property-for the digital age. He advocates for transparency in algorithms, new forms of digital republicanism and “confederalism” (ensuring no one is subject to arbitrary digital authority and allowing movement between platforms), and institutional innovations such as citizen assemblies, code audits, and regulatory oversight over platforms. His goal is to embolden citizens to “programme or be programmed,” reclaim political agency in a world increasingly governed by software.