Publication
How growing virtualisation and dependence steer the way we think and act. A report by Post-X Society (2025), commissioned by the Dutch National Police.
We are constantly under the influence of digital systems, even when we are not aware of it. Our physical surroundings are virtualising ever further, and those systems steer not just our devices, but ourselves. This report examines how that works, and what it means for our autonomy, safety and democracy.
We are constantly under the influence of digital systems. Even when we are not consciously using them.
The core
- Steering and control. Digital systems monitor our surroundings and steer both devices and people. Think of sensors that decide when the rubbish is collected, or immersive experiences that can mislead.
- Commercial drivers. The commercial forces behind the technology are so strong that important values risk being hollowed out.
- Dependence. Our surroundings are becoming saturated with virtualisation, and no one can escape it any more.
What needs to happen
- Strengthen regulation, oversight and enforcement, though that alone will not be enough.
- Raise public awareness and access to expertise.
- Develop alternatives and new institutions.
- Replace part of the current infrastructure.
A horizon scan or research on request?
