From Responsible Innovation to Interrelational Technology Development

This paper is about responsible technology development within Indigenous communities and brings to light the shortcomings of responsible innovation (RI) and responsible research and innovation (RRI) in context. A literature review is presented of select works in RI, RRI, and critical race theory in Science and Technology Studies (STS) as conceptual foci in relation to public interest technology development with a U.S. BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) focus. The paper further explores gaps in these approaches to responsible technology development as applied to Indigenous communities and continues with a literature review of select works within Indigenous theory. The author argues the need for both Indigenous theory and Indigenous data sovereignty as required elements when working with and within Indigenous communities. The paper concludes by proposing “Interrelational Technology Development” to provide greater awareness and a conceptual framework for harm mitigation with increased responsibility, relevance, and respect for and within BIPOC communities.