The Paradox of Progress: Dissecting the Neoliberal Ideologies in edX’s Transformation

The transformative trajectory of edX, from its inception to the current day, has been marked by evolving narratives that mirror wider socio-technological paradigms. This chapter delves into the intricate interplay of branding, linguistic inclusivity, and the technological determinism that underpins edX and how it succumbed to the forces of neoliberalism, turning the leading not-for-profit provider into a commercial entity. Through an analysis of its changing web presence, course offerings, and demographics, the chapter elucidates how the rhetoric of empowerment might inadvertently perpetuate certain neoliberal ideologies. Drawing on scholars such as Knox, Berlin, and others, the chapter critically examines the nuances of ‘openness’ and ‘freedom’ that are inherent in edX’s value proposition. It emphasises the gap between the promise of unrestricted access and the reality of systemic barriers, underscoring the importance of critically evaluating the potential and limitations of online educational platforms. More importantly, the chapter assists researchers in uncovering ideologies that seem progressive on their surface but have deep invested interests in capital accumulation.