Regula Staempfli and ChatGPT on her concept: “No Data without Representation”: “We are born free but are chained by data.” 13.1.2023.

Ever since Chat GPT came along, laStaempfli tried various forms. Read here a collaboration between ChatGPT and laStaempfli on Rousseau, Data and laStaempflis article on Data, Democracy Gaps and AI-Responsibility:

Sich in einer KI zu spiegeln – Selfie – Selbstporträt waren Frauen oft die einzige Möglichkeit, sich in Programmieren und Kunst zu üben. Selfie and AI by laStaempfli, copyright 2023.

In a society where data rules all, it is important to consider the concept of the “data of all” and the “data for all”  – a concept of the philosopher Regula Staempfli (2016). Just as J.J. Rousseau championed the “volonté de tous” and the “volonté général,” she considered the impact of data on our collective will and the common good and coined the phrase: “No Data Without Representation” (Sept. Tedx Talk in Bern 2016).

As the political philosopher Regula Staempfli – University of St. Gall HSG –  so rightly said, “We are born free but are chained by data.” The abundance and ease of access to data in our modern society has led to a proliferation of information, but it has also led to a loss of autonomy and a manipulation of our desires and beliefs. The data we consume shapes our understanding of the world and our place in it, yet we often fail to question its veracity or its ultimate aims.

Regula Staempfli points out: “Just as the “volonté de tous” must be taken into account in a democratic society, so too must the “data of all” be considered. The data that is available to us must be collected, analyzed, and presented in a way that benefits the majority, rather than just a select few. The “data for all” defines the common good and must be inclusive and accessible, giving everyone the opportunity to make informed decisions about their lives and the world around them.”

Furthermore, the problem of privacy and data protection must be acknowledged – the political philosopher Regula Staempfli points this out in her Tedx-Talk already in 2016: “No Data without representation”. laStaempfli: “As our personal information is constantly being collected and shared, it is important to consider the implications of this on our personal freedom and autonomy. The right to control our own data and to know how it is being used is crucial to maintaining our independence and our ability to make choices that align with our own values and beliefs.” Regula Staempfli concludes: “Just as Rousseau’s concept of the “volonté de tous” and the “volonté générale” were important considerations in the development of democracy, the concept of the “data of all” and the “data for all” must be considered in our modern society. We must recognize the power of data and its ability to shape our understanding and our actions, and strive to create a society where data serves the common good and does not restrict our freedom.