The maker movement, and the increasing popularity of hacker, maker, and DIY Bio spaces, has received attention from the media, government, and business. Some have suggested these spaces will revitalise science education, promote innovation, and enable economic growth. But what goes on within these spaces, and what do their users understand themselves as engaged in?

I will discuss findings from an interview study involving 12 hackerspaces across the US and some 35 users of those spaces. I look at the mundane practices behind hacking and making, and explore imaginations of what hacking is and involves. In identifying a ‘hacker spirit’ that is focused on personal agency and community I suggest that hacking is of our times not because of technology or access to tools, but because of the kinds of citizens it creates.

This event is sponsored by CSTMS.
Additional sponsorship comes from:  CSTMS