Communities, technology, and civic intelligence

Abstract

In this paper, we ask what it would take to envision and support collective intelligence that was socially and environmentally ameliorative. To help answer that question we introduce the concept of "civic intelligence" as a manifestation of collective intelligence that could serve the needs of researchers and practitioners working at the intersection of communities and technology. We build a case for its importance and relevance, and provide several examples, and some preliminary models and frameworks. We also discuss implications for members of this community. We argue that an examination of the social context is critical and that a civic intelligence orientation surfaces important research questions. We present some thoughts on future projects that would help promote understanding about civic intelligence while improving it. Finally we present some choices before us as we move forward in an environment that is dynamic and uncertain.