Are We Returning to (Neo)Feudalism? Digital, Social and Economic (R)evolutions

The lecture invites the audience to reflect on how economic, technological, and social changes are reshaping the modern world. It discusses the growing power of Big Tech, the influence of artificial intelligence and algorithms, the fragility of contemporary societies, and the idea of technofeudalism. The presentation also explores how education, awareness, and adaptability can help individuals and societies become more resilient in times of rapid change. An additional perspective of the lecture is whether these global challenges are perceived in a similar way in Iceland as they are in Poland.

Bartosz Sobotka, Ph.D. – economist and lawyer specializing in the labor market and the transformation of education systems. He has been teaching at the University College of Enterprise and Administration in Lublin (WSPA). He has also worked for public institutions (including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs), NGOs, and the private sector. Currently, as Development Director at Syntea SA, he is introducing VR, micro-credentials, and AI-powered learning solutions in Poland and across the CEE region.

He has participated – as an expert, supervisor, or directly responsible manager – in several hundred projects for both the public and commercial sectors in the areas of business development, market research, and process optimization. He is the author of more than 60 publications on human capital, including the popular book “Competencies of Tomorrow, or What the Future Will Demand from Our Children.”