Paper Number
2190
Paper Type
short
Description
Autocratic governance structures are prevalent in open source projects. One key figure in such a structure is the project founder, often called ‘Benevolent Dictator for Life.’ These benevolent dictators typically engage in autocratic decision-making by virtue of having founded the project or holding gatekeeping roles. However, research has overlooked how autocratic governance is formed around the Benevolent Dictator for Life and the enduring appeal of this figure in open source projects. To this end, this study aims to explore the way autocratic structures in open source projects are sustained or changed and the roles that autocratic founders play in this process. Drawing upon the CARE theory, which theorises the relationship between personal data digitalization and human dignity, we propose a conceptual model that highlights the formation of autocratic structures and the distinct roles that founders can play during this process.
Recommended Citation
Curto-Millet, Daniel and Tona, Olgerta, "Of Founders and Contributors: The Construction of Authority through Personal Data Digitalization" (2023). ICIS 2023 Proceedings. 11.
https://aisel.aisnet.org/icis2023/soc_impactIS/soc_impactIS/11
Of Founders and Contributors: The Construction of Authority through Personal Data Digitalization
Autocratic governance structures are prevalent in open source projects. One key figure in such a structure is the project founder, often called ‘Benevolent Dictator for Life.’ These benevolent dictators typically engage in autocratic decision-making by virtue of having founded the project or holding gatekeeping roles. However, research has overlooked how autocratic governance is formed around the Benevolent Dictator for Life and the enduring appeal of this figure in open source projects. To this end, this study aims to explore the way autocratic structures in open source projects are sustained or changed and the roles that autocratic founders play in this process. Drawing upon the CARE theory, which theorises the relationship between personal data digitalization and human dignity, we propose a conceptual model that highlights the formation of autocratic structures and the distinct roles that founders can play during this process.
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05-SocImpact