Using survey data from 1,017 residents, this study identifies confidence in the benefits of smart cities but lesser trust in privacy and security and lesser satisfaction with participation opportunities in related policymaking. Probing these dynamics, the study finds that trust in smart city mechanics and governance associate positively with support for smart cities, controlling for ideology and issue awareness. Illuminating a theoretical and practical puzzle, these findings contribute empirically to discussions about the political legitimacy of scientific, technological, and technocratic undertakings in the public sector.

https://journals.sagepub.com/eprint/TZSKRYCRM8KP6W8UI33J/full

Hartley, Kris. (2021). “Public trust and political legitimacy in the smart city: a reckoning for technocracy.” Science, Technology, & Human Values.