Transformation of the Concept of Alienation in the Conditions of Digitalization

Abstract

This article examines the evolution and transformation of the concept of alienation in contemporary digital society. The authors aim not only to analyse the concept’s historical genesis but also to identify its new semantic content in the light of the rapid development of digital technologies. The study begins with an overview of the history of philosophy, focusing on the ideas of G.W.F. Hegel and K. Marx as well as their approaches to understanding alienation as a socio-economic phenomenon. Particular emphasis is placed on Marx’ concepts, which are now assuming new forms due to digitalization. The study’s methodology combines historical-philosophical analysis of classical theories with a critical examination of contemporary technological realities. The authors emphasize that digitalization, while liberating individuals from routine tasks, simultaneously generates novel forms of alienation. Phenomena arising from digitalization transform consciousness by shifting the focus from the depth of thinking to the speed of content consumption. In addition, the article explores the contradictory nature of digital technologies, which serve both as tools for creative self-realization and mechanisms for social control. The study concludes by emphasizing the need to rethink traditional approaches to the phenomenon of alienation. The authors argue that in the digital age, key challenges include the virtualization of social relations, the loss of autonomy under algorithmic governance, and identity crisis. It is highlighted that the outcome of digital transformation depends not on the technologies themselves but on societal value orientations. The article contributes to the discourse on the social consequences of digitalization by offering an interdisciplinary perspective for analysing contemporary challenges.