Cities across the world are about to enter the next phase of development. A near invisible network of radio frequency identification tags (RFID) is being deployed on many consumer items. These chips can connect to the Internet in an instant, creating a global network of physical objects or the ‘internet of things’. Is this the ultimate convenience in supply-chain management, the ultimate tool in future surveillance, or the real enabler for a grassroot local new politics?

During this talk, Rob van Kranenburg will examine the impact these systems could have on our cities and wider societies; and what alternative technologies could safeguard privacy and empower citizens.

The talk takes place on Thursday 4 March at 6.30pm at Watershed.

Book now at Watershed Box office or online here.

Rob van Kranenburg is an innovation and media theorist involved with negociability strategies of new technologies and artistic practice, predominantly ubicomp and RFID, the relationship between the formal and informal in cultural and economic policy, and the requirements for a sustainable cultural economy. 

This is a DCRC event, supported by the Pervasive Media Studio and Watershed.