Register and take control!

Who isn’t familiar with the story—told a thousand times during the Christmas season—of the census in Judea ordered by the Roman Emperor Augustus? Quirinius, a zealous official, was entrusted with carrying it out as governor of Syria. The population was required to register. Scholars disagree on why this census was conducted. What is certain is that, in a territory as vast and powerful as the one the Romans ruled, the rulers wanted to know what was going on in their regions: Were there any rebellious or dangerous movements? Where are the opportunities? This is not to suggest that statistical surveys—and in particular the growing obsession with registration—always stem from similar motives in our society. One thing is certain: without zealous officials, powerful corporations, and totalitarian regimes, data collection would not be where it is today. They want to eavesdrop on the people. Political movements, parties, and associations are, unfortunately, often caught up in this as well. Two journalists recently revealed in the NZZ what happened to their personal data. Using algorithms, these data behemoths create profiles. It’s absurd, ridiculous, and in some cases completely wrong! It might be funny—but it’s also dangerous—suddenly I’m a wanted criminal.

I don’t know how to get out of this unpleasant data mill. But in any case, I’ve become much more cautious and nip things in the bud—even the small things. Sorry, I have to wrap this up now; I want to order a Christmas gift online...

I wish you all a wonderful and relaxing Christmas season and a great start to the new year.

Your editor
, Emil Ch. Giezendanner

The opinions expressed on this page by the editor—as well as by other authors of this issue—do not necessarily reflect the official position of the SMV. Readers can find official association announcements in the “SMV” section.