Data is a social phenomenon. This book examines the ways in which we are constantly engaging with data, consciously through the ways in which we provide data about ourselves and without awareness. It analyses the construction and use of statistics by governmental and non-governmental organisations, looking at how statistics are used in social discourse to advance interests and to achieve particular, often political ends.

The authors also consider the increasing power of private corporations and transnational organisations, including recent processes affecting the ownership and access to data, as well as the importance of data in uncovering and portraying injustices.