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D21 Annual Conference / E-CLIC Midterm Conference, June 10th 2010 in the Deutscher Pavillon in Hannover
Challenges concerning digitization of societies in Europe do not stop at frontiers. Data is sent all around the continent and it is not always clear who is able to have access. Being part of the E-CLIC project and to give this part of the Internet economy a transnational discussion platform, for the first time the D21 Initiative will host its annual congress in an international context. We are looking forward to your visit and expect captivating discussions on the subject of:
Data – The new key currency in the digital age?
The economic cycle with digital goods and services on the Internet currently summarizes to a very simple formula: In many people’s minds immaterial goods and services are not compatible with the classical exchange of money for goods, as even the next website offers the desired product or needed service “for free”.
But even in the era of the World Wide Web, you hardly get anything for free. Even if providers often (can) ask no one for direct payment, the added value will often be paid with own data and disclosure of the personal digital profile, which is a particularly valuable currency for the advertising industry and the media business. Only through this business model the mostly creative and innovative possibilities of the Web can be financed and expanded.
Up until today hardly anyone is aware of the details whether and what information each individual reveals in exchange for services and products. In order to do so the information society in general is too unskilled and inexperienced with data collection as well as knowledge about person advantages and disadvantages of this development. The complexity and the related decisions can be determined only by guidelines of the state, economy and society. In the end, everyone decides for himself how much he wants to be involved in this particular economic model.
Since the enlightenment our society has focused on rationality to create new knowledge. To expand boundaries and move freely in digital space, information about function and use of this space are essential. The younger generation is growing straight into this environment or is already in it, but is currently part of an educational system that approaches the digital society only cautiously. Those who have already passed through the education system are usually on their own to get a feeling for the self-determined usage of the Internet.
The challenges are clear, but will still have to wait an indefinite time until responsible stakeholders put the digital society in Germany in motion by coordinated, coherent and appropriate action. Together with their international partners, Initiative D21 offers a neutral platform for all stakeholders to make first constructive steps towards a society in which each individual is informed and aware of and can therefore decide to be in favor or against the opportunities of the digital age.
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