The Rise of Digitalism: Will the Coronavirus Trigger the End of Liberalism?

My latest article:

The Corona crisis can be a catalyst for the rise of Digitalism. After nationalism, communism and Liberalism, it is now time for the era of Digitalism as the leading, global, system of social organisation. Whether we like it or not. The Coronavirus seems to speed up this change and, depending on where you live, it is not something to look forward to.

The story of Digitalism explains the future as a struggle for data among companies and (certain) governments trying to collect as much data as possible and citizens trying to protect their data and privacy. Digitalism envisions a world where data is the most important resource in society. It thrives on capitalism and depending on the role of the government either enables mass surveillance (whether state or company surveillance) or aims to empower its citizens. Regardless of the direction, Digitalism enables a winner takes all mentality resulting in increased inequality.

The rise of digitalism is unstoppable, but for citizens around the world, it is essential to fight it and push it in the right direction. It is a battle we cannot lose, or we will lose everything.

Three Useful Nuggets of Information

My weekly tips from around the web to get you thinking.

1. AI can now read your brain.

Researchers in US tracked the neural data from people while they were speaking. Scientists have developed artificial intelligence that can turn brain activity into text, making reading minds a reality. (The Guardian)

2. China launched a national blockchain network.

The Blockchain-based Service Network (BSN) will be like an operating system, where participants can use existing blockchain programs, or build their own bespoke tools, without having to design a framework from the ground up. (IEEE)

3. Twitter removes tweets by Brazil, Venezuela presidents.

According to Twitter, the tweets contained false or misleading information about COVID-19. (The Verge)