Humanising the digital public: From user models to civic systems.

Abstract

This paper proposes a paradigm shift in how digital publics are conceptualised and modelled. Current platform monetisation relies on reductive personalisation metrics that shape incentives across infrastructure, interface, and user interaction—producing systemic effects detrimental to civic resilience and information integrity. We argue for a reconceptualisation of digital publics as emergent sociotechnical collectives, drawing on modelling approaches from live event and civic design. We outline a multi-method programme combining tabletop games, megagames, and simulations to develop and test new metrics that support alternative incentives and human-centred platform governance.