Fair Share: A Letter from a Stoic

My dearest friend,

I write to you today about a matter of utmost importance, the establishment of a fair data society. The principles of wisdom, justice, courage, and self-control are integral in constructing a just and equitable society, and it is our obligation to guarantee that these values are upheld in all aspects of our lives, including the digital realm.

Imagine a world where individuals have the liberty to decide how their personal data is used and the capacity to reap the benefits of anonymized data in a way that aligns with their values and interests. This would not only secure their privacy and give them control over their personal information, but it would also ensure that the data used to train AI systems is trustworthy, diverse, and free from biases. Such a society would lay the foundation for the development of AI systems that are guided by principles of justice and fairness, promoting the well-being of individuals and society as a whole.

It is imperative to understand that the commercialization of personal data infringes upon an individual's privacy and autonomy over their personal information. Personal data holds immense value, and it is only right that the value generated from it be returned to the individuals who created it. The exchange of anonymized data, on the other hand, should be encouraged as it enhances privacy and reduces information asymmetry. This can serve as the foundation for a Universal Basic Income, providing individuals with financial stability and independence, and enabling them to fully participate in the digital economy.

I propose a new arrangement for this Universal Basic Income, FairShare. This arrangement acknowledges the contributions of individuals in the digital economy and provides them with a share of the value generated from their data and their participation in the digital commons. Individuals are always free to choose whether or not they participate in this arrangement.

Allow me to illustrate this concept with an example from our shared heritage. When a community cultivates a field as a commons, they are entitled to a portion of the harvest. In a similar vein, when individuals contribute to the digital commons by exchanging anonymized data, they are entitled to a portion of the value generated from it. FairShare ensures that this value is returned to them, creating a more just and equitable society.

It is up to us, my friend, to choose this path of fairness and justice, to nurture the growth of a fair data society, and to create a world that values the privacy and dignity of every individual. May we rise to this challenge and let our virtues guide us on this journey.

With hope in our hearts,

Seneca

Read more: Seneca: Letters from a Stoic