Economic Theory in the Digital Age: A Socio-Philosophical Analysis of Global Challenges and Opportunities

Abstract

The growing integration of digital technologies into economic processes necessitates a philosophical and ideological reevaluation of economic theory. This study aims to justify the transformation of economic theory in the context of digitalisation, emphasising the need for a worldview and mental understanding of the digital economy. The research combines a dialectical approach — which views digitalisation as contradicting and reshaping existing economic laws — with a synergetic perspective that considers digital resources as complementary to productive, human, and financial capital. Findings confirm that digitalisation has deeply penetrated the foundations of economic theory, shaping its modern form. However, an information-digital singularity remains unlikely in the coming century. The study also highlights digital inequality, resulting from disparities in digital literacy, culture, and access among economic actors. Economic activity enhanced by artificial intelligence, neural networks, cloud storage, and cyber-management systems is now characterised by speed, scale, security, and diversity, contributing to innovative economic dynamics and sustainable development. The research emphasises the importance of integrating digital factors into existing theoretical frameworks, including the circular economy, platform economy, and economic-ecological systems. A promising direction is the development of a synergistic model that considers digitalisation as a catalyst for harmony among economic components and as a foundation for a human-centred socio-economic environment. The study’s novelty lies in the philosophical interpretation of digitalisation as a transformative force in economic theory. It argues for a balance between pragmatic economic principles and ethical human standards, warning against risks such as inequality, inefficiency, and ideological distortion. By grounding digital economy concepts in philosophical reflection, the study contributes to both theoretical advancement and practical understanding of digital-era economics.