Drone Use for COVID-19 Related Problems: Techno-solutionism and its Societal Implications

Area of Science:

• Sociology of Technology
• Public Policy
• Innovation Studies

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated innovative solutions, leading to the widespread adoption of drones by public authorities.
• Drones were employed to address pandemic-related challenges while maintaining social distancing measures.
• The deployment of technology during states of emergency raises significant societal and political questions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the emergence of a new socio-technical assemblage driven by drone utilization during the pandemic.
• To examine the actors, technologies, and practices involved in drone deployment for disinfection, delivery, and surveillance.
• To explore the implications of drone use on regulatory processes, public acceptance, and safety concerns.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of empirical data concerning the use of drones by national authorities.
• Examination of three primary drone applications: disinfection, delivery, and surveillance.
• Investigation into the socio-technical aspects of drone integration into public services.

Main Results:

• The extensive use of drones has formed a novel socio-technical assemblage comprising diverse actors, technologies, and practices.
• Drone deployment for pandemic response highlights key issues in technology regulation, public perception, and security.
• Specific use cases (disinfection, delivery, surveillance) reveal distinct socio-technical configurations and challenges.

Conclusions:

• The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the integration of drones into public administration, creating new socio-technical dynamics.
• Understanding these dynamics is crucial for navigating the future regulation and societal acceptance of drone technology.
• Further research is needed to address the complex interplay between drone technology, governance, and public safety.