Jamie Theophilos

Biography

My research explores the intersecting issues of online safety, security, privacy, harassment, and surveillance. Grounded in a multi-methodological approach, primarily qualitative and rooted in critical cultural analysis of the internet and computing, I focus on alternative media and technologies, internet subcultures, culture wars, and social movements spanning from radical left activism to far-right extremism.

Beyond my research, I work hands-on with computers, the internet, and media.  I am an active content moderator and server administrator on the Fediverse, and a committed advocate for digital justice and Free/Libre Open Source Software (FLOSS). With over 12 years of experience in non-fiction multimedia production and digital media art, I have worked as a videographer, editor, graphic designer, and animator for grassroots organizations, nonprofits, and independent musicians and artists.

I received my Bachelor of Arts at Mount Holyoke College in Film Studies and my Masters of Fine Arts in the Film, Video, New Media & Animation department at The School of the Art Institute of Chicago. I have taught at the University of North Carolina Asheville, Winston Salem State University, and Rainbow Community School. I have spoken on panels, presented workshops, screened films, and participated in art exhibitions in various places across the globe, including Montreal, Paris, Chicago, and New York City.

Most Recent Publication:

Closing the Door to Remain Open: The Politics of Openness and the Practices of Strategic Closure in the Fediverse 

I am an active member of the Network of Alternative Social Media Researchers