A Unveiling Surveillance Capitalism: Sociocultural Reflections in James Ponsoldt’s film The Circle رفع الستار عن رأسمالية المراقبة تأملات سوسيوثقافية في فيلم الدائرة لجيمس بونسولت

Abstract

This research explores the profound sociocultural impact of surveillance capitalism through an analysis of James Ponsoldt’s film adaptation of “The Circle” (2017). Focused on five central themes—technology and transparency, social media influence, corporate control, data mining and manipulation, and user consent manipulation—this analysis draws inspiration from Shoshana Zuboff’s seminal work, “The Age of Surveillance Capitalism” (2019). The film dissects the complex interplay between technology and transparency, showcasing the intricate dynamics of digital power. The exploration of social media influence reveals our societal obsession with connectivity and validation, echoing the concept of “the culture of connectivity.” A poignant commentary on the overarching power of technology corporations, the narrative encapsulates the heart of surveillance capitalism. Data mining and manipulation emerge as the backbone of surveillance capitalism, transforming individual experiences into behavioral data and posing ethical dilemmas. User consent manipulation uncovers the intricate moral complexities of consent within the surveillance capitalist paradigm, reflecting ongoing discussions on privacy, autonomy, and technology. “The Circle” transcends cinema to become a sociocultural mirror, reflecting the intricate web of our digital age. This research not only illuminates thematic layers within the film but also deepens our understanding of the intricate sociocultural landscape shaped by surveillance capitalism.