Smartisme

Smartisme is a contemporary philosophical and socio-technical framework that seeks to guide the development and use of intelligent technologies in ways that are human-centric, transparent, and accountable.

The term emerged in the early 2010s amid rapid advances in AI, data analytics, and ubiquitous devices, drawing on debates about ethics, governance, and the societal impacts of automation.

Core tenets include: designing for human well-being and autonomy; ensuring transparency of algorithms and decision-making; protecting data privacy and obtaining informed consent; establishing accountability mechanisms for organizations and individuals deploying smart systems; promoting inclusive access, digital literacy, and participatory policymaking; and pursuing sustainable, non-disruptive innovation.

Practices associated with Smartisme include ethics impact assessments, robust governance frameworks, open standards, public engagement in technology policy, and collaboration among academia, industry, and civil society.

The movement has influenced discussions on AI governance, smart cities, education, and public-sector procurement, though it faces criticism for potential technocratic bias, overemphasis on optimization, and concerns about surveillance and power imbalances.

See also: Digital ethics, Responsible AI, Technology policy.