In our fast-paced technological era, we find ourselves increasingly reliant on digital platforms for our everyday needs. From online shopping to food delivery and entertainment streaming, our lives are leaving behind a digital footprint that is being meticulously collected and analysed. While this may seem like a harmless exchange of convenience, it raises concerns about the extent of control and manipulation that large corporations have over our personal data. This article delves into the concept of “Digital Dictatorship” and highlights the potential dangers associated with the ever-expanding reach of data-driven technology.
The Captive Consumers
Many individuals and businesses rely on digital platforms to reach customers and conduct transactions. However, this convenience comes at a cost. Uber drivers, for example, lose a significant portion of their income to the platform as loyalty fees. Similarly, restaurant owners often surrender a significant portion of their takeaway sales to companies like Just Eat and Deliveroo. Consequently, everyday people find themselves working tirelessly, only to contribute to the ever-growing profits of these corporate giants.
The Power of Data
Irrespective of our beliefs in God or the Big Bang theory, it is undeniable that our DNA plays a significant role in shaping our lives from birth to death. In the rapidly advancing technological landscape, we are witnessing the emergence of a new form of slavery — one that operates under the guise of “Digital Dictatorship.” Our increasing reliance on online shopping, food delivery, and entertainment platforms exposes us to a data collection process that captures our preferences, habits, and activities. By compiling this information, corporations create a digital replica of our lives, akin to a DNA code that can be easily analysed and manipulated.
The Terrifying Reality
The vast amounts of data collected are stored and controlled by a handful of large corporations, including Twitter, Google, Facebook, Microsoft, and financial institutions. These entities possess an unprecedented level of power over our personal information, enabling them to identify patterns, interfere with our choices, and ultimately dictate the trajectory of our lives. Unlike traditional governance systems, we are not given the opportunity to elect or replace these entities; we simply submit to their dominance. When coupled with the capabilities of Artificial Intelligence, this control becomes an alarming weapon in the hands of a select few, paving the way for the absurd notion of World Domination.
Preserving Our Autonomy
To combat the encroachment of Digital Dictatorship, it is essential to reassess our reliance on digital transactions and the generation of extensive digital footprints. One way to do this is by opting for cash transactions over digital payments for personal expenses. Embracing a more cash-based approach can limit the amount of personal data generated and lessen the control that corporations hold over our lives. By actively reducing our digital footprint, we can strive for greater autonomy and regain a sense of control over our own destiny.
Bottom Line
The rapid advancement of technology has paved the way for a new era of control and manipulation through data. The convergence of massive amounts of personal information, held by a few corporate entities, and the power of Artificial Intelligence raises concerns about the emergence of Digital Dictatorship. To safeguard our autonomy and protect against the potential consequences of this digital dominance, it is imperative to be conscious of the data we generate and consider alternative ways to conduct transactions that limit the extent of our digital footprints. Only through vigilance and informed choices can we counterbalance the power wielded by these corporations and strive for a future that respects individual freedom and self-determination. Visit Maze Limited for more details.
Omid Nabbey ,FFA,FIPA,FIA
