Douglas Thomas (academic)

Douglas Thomas is an American academic known for his work in digital media, culture, and the impact of technology on society. He is a professor in the Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism at the University of Southern California (USC).

Thomas's research focuses on the history of hacking, digital subcultures, and the social and political implications of emerging technologies. He is particularly interested in how technology shapes identity, community, and power relations. He has explored the history of hacking, tracing its evolution from early telephone phreaking to contemporary online activism and cybersecurity threats.

His work often examines the ways in which digital media alters traditional forms of communication and social interaction. He has published extensively on topics such as anonymity online, the impact of the internet on political discourse, and the relationship between technology and social movements.

Key Publications:

• Hacking America: How Hackers and Activists Exposed Cyber Insecurity and What Leaders Can Do to Fix It (2017)
• Hacker Culture (2002)

Thomas has also contributed to public discussions about technology and its impact, offering insights on current events and trends in digital media. His work is relevant to fields such as communication studies, media studies, sociology, and political science.