Douglas Rushkoff

Douglas Rushkoff, born on February 18, 1961, is a prominent American media theorist, journalist, and writer, renowned for his insightful critiques of technocapitalism and his advocacy for open source solutions to societal challenges. His work is deeply rooted in the early cyberpunk culture, where he has made significant contributions as a professor, columnist, lecturer, graphic novelist, documentarian, and podcaster.

Rushkoff is widely recognized for coining influential terms such as viral media, digital native, and social currency. He has authored fourteen books that explore the intersections of media, technology, and culture, alongside several novels and graphic novels. His pioneering voice in cyberculture was established through the first syndicated column on the subject for The New York Times Syndicate, and he has contributed regularly to esteemed publications like The Guardian, Arthur, Discover, and online platforms such as Daily Beast and TheFeature.

Currently, Rushkoff serves as a Professor of Media Theory and Digital Economics at the City University of New York, Queens College. His academic journey includes previous lectures at The New School in Manhattan and the Interactive Telecommunications Program at New York University's Tisch School of the Arts, where he founded the Narrative Lab. He has also engaged with students online through the Maybe Logic Academy.

In 2012, Rushkoff was recognized as the sixth most influential thinker globally by MIT Technology Review and the Gottlieb Duttweiler Institute, joining the ranks of notable figures like Steven Pinker and Daniel Kahneman. His influence continues to grow, and on March 9, 2026, he announced his confirmation as a permanent member of the Club of Rome.