Research Article · Vol. 24, No. 2 (2025) · pp. 1-27
State Platforms and Algorithmic Governance: The Political Economy of China's City Brain Programs
- Wei Zhang — Fudan University
Published Dec 31, 2025
Abstract
City Brain programs promise algorithmic optimization of urban governance. Based on policy documents and interviews across five Chinese cities, this article traces how municipal governments, platform firms, and citizens negotiate data infrastructures. We argue that City Brains institutionalize a distinctive mode of state–platform co-governance with implications for smart-city research across Asia.
Keywords:algorithmic governanceChinasmart citiesplatform politicsurban studies