How to Find and Work with Data

Data is not neutral. The numbers do not speak for themselves. Knowledge is not objective.

Standpoint theory tells us that our lived experience influences how we construct and interpret information and authority. Our individual and collective socio-political context impacts the systems and processes we use to collect data. This means that data can be racist, sexist, ableist, heterosexist, transphobic, homophobic, classist. The ways we use data can also replicate or reinforce systemic injustice, if we do so without careful consideration and critical analysis.

Using data ethically requires applying a critical lens to questions of ontology, epistemology, and methodology. Hone yours using the tools below.