On the internet, we are part of swarms: networks of people, bots, and content, coordinated through algorithmic feedback loops. Swarms are harbingers of misinformation, heralds of mutual aid, and representatives of the public will. Swarms are networked tempests of humans and information. Most importantly, they can act collectively without explicit coordination protocols; they are minimally protocolized entities.

In this essay, we explore specific cases of swarms such as the mutual-aid response to the devastating Hurricane María to uncover the unique methods of collective action they embody. We also contrast swarms with their natural online complement: formations. Formations are groups like memetic tribes and online communities that do have explicit protocols shaping collective action, distinguishing them from swarms. We conclude by exploring a key question: How do we steer swarms? The essay is accompanied by a piece of design fiction: an onboarding document for Flow, a speculative software product with features to support swarm-like coordination.

The essay is accompanied by a piece of design fiction: An onboarding document for Flow, a speculative software product with features to support swarm-like coordination.