Digital technologies, religious identity and autonomy: Re-examining freedom in the age of algorithmic control

Kovačević, Dušica (2025) Digital technologies, religious identity and autonomy: Re-examining freedom in the age of algorithmic control. In: : The 10th Annual International Academic Conference – Challenges Facing Religion and the Church in Postmodern Digital Society. Institute of Social Sciences, Belgrade, p. 14. ISBN 978-86-7093-289-0

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Abstract

Digital technologies significantly shape how individuals approach reli- gious beliefs, providing unprecedented opportunities to explore vari- ous traditions. However, this approach presents paradoxical challeng- es, as digital platforms enable and shape religious freedom through algorithmic content filtering and personalized recommendations. In this context, the freedom of choice comes into question: to what ex- tent is individual choice truly autonomous when faced with technolo- gies that selectively shape one’s worldview? Given the ubiquity of online communities and content, religious iden- tities are no longer exclusively formed within traditional institutions. They are increasingly influenced by algorithmic systems that reflect societal norms, values, and expectations. While it seems that the in- formation society offers more choices, it often narrows down these options through personalized content, which can undermine autono- my in religious decision-making. The issue of freedom of choice becomes particularly relevant in light of research into the behaviors and attitudes of digital platform users, whose findings demonstrate how these technologies impact the for- mation of religious beliefs and identities. In this regard, it is crucial to consider whether the information society truly supports religious pluralism or creates new forms of manipulation and digital determin- ism, redefining religious freedom and autonomy. As digital platforms continue to evolve, the redefinition of religious identity highlights the need for further research into the long-term implications of techno- logical mediation in shaping personal and collective belief systems.

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