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The current system benefits those who own and control the most data from "summary" of Who Owns the Future? by Jaron Lanier

In our world today, the power dynamic has shifted. It is no longer the physical resources or tangible assets that hold the most value, but rather the intangible – data. Those who possess vast amounts of data hold a significant advantage over others. This advantage allows them to manipulate markets, influence decisions, and ultimately control the direction of society. The current system is designed in such a way that those who own and control the most data are the ones who benefit the most. They are able to extract immense wealth and power from the data that is generated by the masses. This data is often freely given by individuals in exchange for access to services or platforms, without fully understanding the value they are exchanging. As the data accumulates in the hands of a few, a feedback loop is created where those with more data are able to generate even more data, further widening the gap between the data-rich and the data-poor. This concentration of data leads to a concentration of wealth and power, creating a vicious cycle that is difficult to break. The implications of this system are far-reaching. It not only exacerbates inequality but also stifles innovation and creativity. Those who do not have access to large amounts of data are at a severe disadvantage, unable to compete with those who do. This leads to a homogenization of ideas and a lack of diversity in the marketplace. If we continue down this path, we risk creating a world where a small elite group controls all the data and consequently all the power. This centralized control is not only detrimental to society as a whole but also to the individuals who are unknowingly contributing their data to this system. It is imperative that we rethink the way data is collected, stored, and utilized in order to create a more equitable and just society.
    oter

    Who Owns the Future?

    Jaron Lanier

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