Philosophy helps us solve ‘big questions that matter,’ argues ‘Justice’ professor as he accepts Berggruen Prize
Samantha Laine Perfas
Harvard Staff Writer
April 15, 2026 4 min read
In 1996, political philosopher Michael Sandel predicted in “Democracy’s Discontent” that globalization would “banish ambiguity, shore up borders, harden the distinction between insiders and outsiders, and promise a politics to ‘take back our culture and take back our country,’ to ‘restore our sovereignty’ with a vengeance.”
Flashing forward to the extreme division we see today, these words have proven prophetic. What were the signs?
“At the time, I thought there was a lot of hubris,” and that legitimate concerns of community erosion were being ignored, Sandel said Monday as he received the Berggruen Prize for Philosophy & Culture, an annual award that recognizes top thinkers whose contributions have lasting intellectual and practical impact worldwide.
He was joined in conversation by Chrystia Freeland, the former deputy prime minister and minister of finance of Canada, who currently serves as economic adviser to the president of Ukraine and is the incoming chief executive officer of the Rhodes Trust.
Sandel, the Anne T. and Robert M. Bass Professor of Government, has written extensively on justice, democracy, bioethics, the moral limits of markets, and meritocracy. An online version of his popular Gen Ed “Justice” course has reached a global audience of tens of millions with lectures covering everything from taxation to free speech.
Sandel debating Ronald Reagan at his high school in 1971.
During the ceremony, Freeland and Sandel looked back on Sandel’s life and career, including his high school years in West Los Angeles. Even as a teenager, Sandel had a knack for challenging conventional wisdom. In 1971, he convinced Ronald Reagan, then governor of California, to debate him at his school — by strategically delivering six pounds of jellybeans to his home. He brought in a legal pad full of his toughest questions on the Vietnam War, the United Nations, and voting rights. Reagan responded respectfully and amiably.
At the end of the hour, Sandel wasn’t quite sure what had happened.
“He hadn’t persuaded us of his views, but he had somehow disarmed us, in part because he took us so seriously,” Sandel said of the experience. “And he listened, which is a lesson that I’ll always remember.”
His most recent book, “The Tyranny of Merit” argues that notions of personal success have led to a deeply polarized society.
“There’s an assumption that has tightened its hold on our public understanding of success, that those who’ve landed on top, that their success is their own doing,” Sandel said.
That’s simply not true, he said. Each of us is surrounded by teachers, family, peers, and environments that play a role in our success. Sandel said we should be cultivating in our youth two messages: work hard to develop talent but also acknowledge the luck you’ve received along the way.
This approach might offer a salve to current political fires, Sandel said. Often elites forget that most U.S. citizens do not have a college education, which many view as the ticket to “dignified work in a decent life.”
“That’s a recipe for anger and resentment, and the sense among many working people is that credentialed elites look down on them, and don’t respect their dignity or the work they do,” he said.
Capping the event, which took place at the Harvard Art Museums, Sandel said he is encouraged by the “hunger” of young people to engage in public debate and noted that philosophy plays a crucial role in our ability to solve problems.
“Many people think that philosophy resides in the heavens far beyond the world in which we live. I think that’s a mistake,” he said. “Philosophy belongs in the city where citizens gather and reason together and argue together about big questions that matter to their lives.”
The $1 million award given annually by the Los Angeles-based Berggruen Institute honors thinkers whose work has made a meaningful impact on a world rapidly transformed by social, technological, political, cultural, and economic change. Past laureates include Onora O’Neill, Martha Nussbaum, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Paul Farmer, and Patricia Hill Collins.
An Italian man single handedly created one quarter of all counterfeit euros circulating in Europe, from his garage in Naples.
Italian Police raided his house and uncovered a sophisticated hidden printing setup located behind the garage. He had constructed a false wall mounted on… pic.twitter.com/313z8DvGAg
Meter.net → News → why data is more valuable than gold: how companies profit from your personal information
why data is more valuable than gold: how companies profit from your personal information
Why is data more valuable than gold? Every click and like is a trace that companies like Google or Meta mine and profit from. Learn how the internet economy uses your data for ads, personalization, and even manipulation.
With the rise of technology and artificial intelligence, data is more valuable than gold. Every click, like, share, or search on the internet creates a trace that is more valuable to tech companies than any precious metal. Why? Because data is not just information – it is the key to your behavior, preferences, and even future decisions. Discover with us how the internet economy works and why your data is so valuable.
data: the new currency of the digital age
Every move you make on the internet is like a coin you give to companies. When you browse new sneakers on an e-shop, like a photo on social media, or enter what bothers you into the search engine, you generate data. This data is not just random digits – it is pieces of information about what you like, what you buy, where you live, who you talk to, and even what annoys you.
For tech companies, like Google, Meta, or Amazon, this data is like raw material that they extract, process, sell, and, most importantly, make huge profits from. It is estimated that the global data market reached a value of over $220 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow to over $1 trillion by 2030.
why is data so valuable?
Unlike gold, which is limited and is being mined physically, data is almost infinite and cheap to collect. Each of us produces an average of 1.7 MB of data per second.
Companies collect, analyze, and use this data for several purposes:
targeted advertising – When you see an ad for a product you just viewed, it’s no coincidence. Algorithms track your behavior and show ads accordingly that you are more likely to click on.
personalized services – Netflix knows what movies you like, Spotify knows your music taste, and Amazon suggests products you’re most likely to buy. All thanks to analyzing your data.
behavior prediction – Data helps companies predict what you’ll do next. For example, banks can estimate whether you’re a suitable candidate for a loan based on your purchasing habits.
product development – Companies use data to improve their products or create new ones that exactly meet user needs.
how do companies collect your data?
Data collection is silent, and you often don’t even notice it happening.
The most common ways of obtaining data include:
Cookies and tracking pixels – When you visit a website, small files called cookies track what you do. Tracking pixels (invisible images on the site) then send information about your behavior back to companies.
Social networks – Every like, comment, or share is recorded. Even how long you look at a post can be valuable information.
Mobile apps – Apps have access to your GPS, contacts, photos, or microphone. Some apps, for example, track where you are to offer local ads.
Search engines and smart assistants – Every search on Google or query to Alexa is recorded and analyzed.
Internet of Things (IoT) – Smartwatches, thermostats, or even refrigerators collect data about your lifestyle.
what do companies do with your data?
Once companies acquire your data, the real alchemy begins. Using artificial intelligence and complex algorithms, data is processed and sorted. The result is user profiles that contain hundreds to thousands of data points – from your age and interests to whether you like to shop late at night.
These profiles are then sold to advertisers or used internally by companies to optimize services. For example, Meta (owner of Facebook and Instagram) earns over 90% of its revenue from advertising based on user data. Google generates most of its revenue through targeted ads in search and on YouTube.
why is data collection a problem?
While personalized ads can be useful, data collection also has its dark side.
Loss of privacy – Your data can reveal very personal information. For example, health status, political opinions, or financial situation.
Manipulation – Companies can use data to influence your decisions. For example, during elections or when making purchases.
Data breaches – Hackers are constantly attacking company databases. In 2023, over 2.6 billion personal data pieces were stolen worldwide.
Power imbalance – While companies have enormous amounts of information about you, you often know almost nothing about them.
what can you do to protect your data?
Luckily, you’re not completely powerless. Even as a layman, you can take steps to limit how much data companies collect about you.
Use ad and cookie blockers
Tools like uBlock Origin or Privacy Badger are great ways to limit tracking on the internet. These blockers stop cookies and tracking pixels that collect information about your behavior on websites. Just install them as browser extensions, and you’ll immediately gain more control over what companies know about you. Plus, they can speed up page loading as they block annoying ads.
check privacy settings
Most social networks and apps have privacy settings that let you limit what information you share. Look into the settings of your account on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok and disable app access to your microphone, camera, or GPS. This will reduce the amount of data companies collect and protect your personal information from misuse.
use anonymous browsers
Browsers like Tor or Brave are designed to maximize your privacy. Tor hides your IP address and routes your connection through several servers, making tracking difficult. Brave automatically blocks ads and trackers and offers faster browsing. Using these browsers can significantly reduce the footprint you leave on the internet.
read terms of use
We know reading terms of use can be boring and often seem written to be unreadable. Still, it’s useful to at least skim through what companies do with your data. Look for information on what data they collect, with whom they share it, and how they use it. If something doesn’t suit you, consider whether you really need the service or look for alternatives with better terms.
use encrypted services
Apps like Signal or ProtonMail use end-to-end encryption, meaning your messages and emails are readable only by you and the recipient. Unlike standard services like WhatsApp or Gmail, where companies can theoretically access your data, encrypted services provide a higher level of security.
the future of data: what’s ahead?
The internet economy is constantly evolving, as are the ways companies collect and use data. Artificial intelligence is becoming even more sophisticated, which means companies will be able to predict your behavior with even greater accuracy.
On the other hand, awareness of privacy protection is increasing, and regulations like GDPR in Europe or CCPA in California are forcing companies to be more transparent.
Nonetheless, it’s important to realize that data is and will be the fuel of the digital world.Even though gold may seem valuable because it’s tangible, data has value because it’s invisible and omnipresent. Each of us is part of this data economy – whether we like it or not.
AI agents are no longer just an experiment of tech companies. They are increasingly appearing in tools we use every day and can independently plan, decide, and execute tasks. We explain what an AI agent is, how it differs from a regular chatbot, and where it can actually save you time and energy.
The concept of cache appears in browsers, phone settings, and when troubleshooting websites, but few know what it exactly means. Cache aims to speed up data loading, but sometimes it can be rather a hindrance. Let’s explain what cache memory is, how it works in practice, and when it’s sensible to clear it.
Everyday online activities have a real energy footprint that quickly multiplies in total. In the article, we will look at what digital carbon footprint means, how much energy regular internet use costs, and which activities burden the environment the most. Areas where consumption is growing the fastest and impact is not immediately visible deserve special attention.
The topic of blue light has led to many simplifications and unnecessary fears. Blue light exposure before sleep is often discussed, but its impact is not limited to just sleep. Let’s put things in context, separate facts from myths, and see when it makes sense to address its effects and when it is more about excessive concern.
Online chats are often handled by artificial intelligence today, and at first glance, the responses appear to be from a real person. This is especially true for customer support, where speed and fluency are key. We’ll look at how to identify AI in chat, what signs you can use to distinguish it from a human, and where the line of recognition becomes very thin.
Ransomware attacks are among the most common cyber threats today and are no longer just a concern for large companies. Just one careless click can cost you access to your data. We’ll explain what ransomware is, how it works, and why attackers are increasingly targeting average users and smaller businesses.
Meter.net → News → why data is more valuable than gold: how companies profit from your personal information
why data is more valuable than gold: how companies profit from your personal information
Why is data more valuable than gold? Every click and like is a trace that companies like Google or Meta mine and profit from. Learn how the internet economy uses your data for ads, personalization, and even manipulation.
With the rise of technology and artificial intelligence, data is more valuable than gold. Every click, like, share, or search on the internet creates a trace that is more valuable to tech companies than any precious metal. Why? Because data is not just information – it is the key to your behavior, preferences, and even future decisions. Discover with us how the internet economy works and why your data is so valuable.
data: the new currency of the digital age
Every move you make on the internet is like a coin you give to companies. When you browse new sneakers on an e-shop, like a photo on social media, or enter what bothers you into the search engine, you generate data. This data is not just random digits – it is pieces of information about what you like, what you buy, where you live, who you talk to, and even what annoys you.
For tech companies, like Google, Meta, or Amazon, this data is like raw material that they extract, process, sell, and, most importantly, make huge profits from. It is estimated that the global data market reached a value of over $220 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow to over $1 trillion by 2030.
why is data so valuable?
Unlike gold, which is limited and is being mined physically, data is almost infinite and cheap to collect. Each of us produces an average of 1.7 MB of data per second.
Companies collect, analyze, and use this data for several purposes:
targeted advertising – When you see an ad for a product you just viewed, it’s no coincidence. Algorithms track your behavior and show ads accordingly that you are more likely to click on.
personalized services – Netflix knows what movies you like, Spotify knows your music taste, and Amazon suggests products you’re most likely to buy. All thanks to analyzing your data.
behavior prediction – Data helps companies predict what you’ll do next. For example, banks can estimate whether you’re a suitable candidate for a loan based on your purchasing habits.
product development – Companies use data to improve their products or create new ones that exactly meet user needs.
how do companies collect your data?
Data collection is silent, and you often don’t even notice it happening.
The most common ways of obtaining data include:
Cookies and tracking pixels – When you visit a website, small files called cookies track what you do. Tracking pixels (invisible images on the site) then send information about your behavior back to companies.
Social networks – Every like, comment, or share is recorded. Even how long you look at a post can be valuable information.
Mobile apps – Apps have access to your GPS, contacts, photos, or microphone. Some apps, for example, track where you are to offer local ads.
Search engines and smart assistants – Every search on Google or query to Alexa is recorded and analyzed.
Internet of Things (IoT) – Smartwatches, thermostats, or even refrigerators collect data about your lifestyle.
what do companies do with your data?
Once companies acquire your data, the real alchemy begins. Using artificial intelligence and complex algorithms, data is processed and sorted. The result is user profiles that contain hundreds to thousands of data points – from your age and interests to whether you like to shop late at night.
These profiles are then sold to advertisers or used internally by companies to optimize services. For example, Meta (owner of Facebook and Instagram) earns over 90% of its revenue from advertising based on user data. Google generates most of its revenue through targeted ads in search and on YouTube.
why is data collection a problem?
While personalized ads can be useful, data collection also has its dark side.
Loss of privacy – Your data can reveal very personal information. For example, health status, political opinions, or financial situation.
Manipulation – Companies can use data to influence your decisions. For example, during elections or when making purchases.
Data breaches – Hackers are constantly attacking company databases. In 2023, over 2.6 billion personal data pieces were stolen worldwide.
Power imbalance – While companies have enormous amounts of information about you, you often know almost nothing about them.
what can you do to protect your data?
Luckily, you’re not completely powerless. Even as a layman, you can take steps to limit how much data companies collect about you.
Use ad and cookie blockers
Tools like uBlock Origin or Privacy Badger are great ways to limit tracking on the internet. These blockers stop cookies and tracking pixels that collect information about your behavior on websites. Just install them as browser extensions, and you’ll immediately gain more control over what companies know about you. Plus, they can speed up page loading as they block annoying ads.
check privacy settings
Most social networks and apps have privacy settings that let you limit what information you share. Look into the settings of your account on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok and disable app access to your microphone, camera, or GPS. This will reduce the amount of data companies collect and protect your personal information from misuse.
use anonymous browsers
Browsers like Tor or Brave are designed to maximize your privacy. Tor hides your IP address and routes your connection through several servers, making tracking difficult. Brave automatically blocks ads and trackers and offers faster browsing. Using these browsers can significantly reduce the footprint you leave on the internet.
read terms of use
We know reading terms of use can be boring and often seem written to be unreadable. Still, it’s useful to at least skim through what companies do with your data. Look for information on what data they collect, with whom they share it, and how they use it. If something doesn’t suit you, consider whether you really need the service or look for alternatives with better terms.
use encrypted services
Apps like Signal or ProtonMail use end-to-end encryption, meaning your messages and emails are readable only by you and the recipient. Unlike standard services like WhatsApp or Gmail, where companies can theoretically access your data, encrypted services provide a higher level of security.
the future of data: what’s ahead?
The internet economy is constantly evolving, as are the ways companies collect and use data. Artificial intelligence is becoming even more sophisticated, which means companies will be able to predict your behavior with even greater accuracy.
On the other hand, awareness of privacy protection is increasing, and regulations like GDPR in Europe or CCPA in California are forcing companies to be more transparent.
Nonetheless, it’s important to realize that data is and will be the fuel of the digital world. Even though gold may seem valuable because it’s tangible, data has value because it’s invisible and omnipresent. Each of us is part of this data economy – whether we like it or not.
AI agents are no longer just an experiment of tech companies. They are increasingly appearing in tools we use every day and can independently plan, decide, and execute tasks. We explain what an AI agent is, how it differs from a regular chatbot, and where it can actually save you time and energy.
The concept of cache appears in browsers, phone settings, and when troubleshooting websites, but few know what it exactly means. Cache aims to speed up data loading, but sometimes it can be rather a hindrance. Let’s explain what cache memory is, how it works in practice, and when it’s sensible to clear it.
Everyday online activities have a real energy footprint that quickly multiplies in total. In the article, we will look at what digital carbon footprint means, how much energy regular internet use costs, and which activities burden the environment the most. Areas where consumption is growing the fastest and impact is not immediately visible deserve special attention.
The topic of blue light has led to many simplifications and unnecessary fears. Blue light exposure before sleep is often discussed, but its impact is not limited to just sleep. Let’s put things in context, separate facts from myths, and see when it makes sense to address its effects and when it is more about excessive concern.
Online chats are often handled by artificial intelligence today, and at first glance, the responses appear to be from a real person. This is especially true for customer support, where speed and fluency are key. We’ll look at how to identify AI in chat, what signs you can use to distinguish it from a human, and where the line of recognition becomes very thin.
Ransomware attacks are among the most common cyber threats today and are no longer just a concern for large companies. Just one careless click can cost you access to your data. We’ll explain what ransomware is, how it works, and why attackers are increasingly targeting average users and smaller businesses.
Rowan Williams, the former Archbishop of Canterbury, tells us that Pete Hegseth’s language is ‘diabolical’ and says ‘there is something demonic’ about American political culture at the moment … pic.twitter.com/KQA0khUXr7
His megalomania has no limits, says Pulitzer prizewinner Chris Hedges. The Hormuz blockade is more bluster than reality. And how Iran has the capacity to cast the world into a global depression
Illustration: Aïda Amer/AxiosOpenAI unveiled newAI models today built to help life sciences researchers work faster, Axios’ Megan Morrone reports.
They’re designed toaccelerate research, drug discovery and translational medicine, turning scientific discoveries into better health outcomes.
OpenAI’s first such model, GPT-Rosalind, is named after Rosalind Franklin, “whose rigorous research helped reveal the structure of DNA and laid the foundation for modern molecular biology.“
The company says the models won’t replace scientists, but rather speed up some of their most time-intensive and analytically demanding work.
Humans still need to be in the loop for their expert judgment and result validation, the company says.
Researchers have warned that AI models trained on biological data could be misused to design dangerous pathogens.
OpenAI is reserving access to its new models for organizations working on improving human health outcomes, conducting legitimate life sciences research, and maintaining strong security and governance controls.
Yunyun Wang, OpenAI’s life sciences product lead, says the idea is to maximize use while mitigating potential misuse.
Among those included: Amgen, Moderna, the Allen Institute and Thermo Fisher Scientific.
Reality check: AI-discovered and AI-designed drugs are promising, but only a few have reached clinical trials so far.Go deeper.
2. Renewables get war boost
Illustration: Allie Carl/AxiosEarly signs are emerging that the energy shock tied to the Iran war could boost the global spread of renewables and other climate-friendly tech, Axios’ Ben Geman writes.
Global powergeneration from fossil fuels was down in the first month of the conflict, per the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air.
The other side: Research and consulting firm Wood Mackenzie says war-related disruptions are “triggering a rebound” in global coal demand as countries scramble to make up for natural gas shortages.Go deeper.
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Illustration: Aïda Amer/AxiosOpenAI unveiled new AI models today built to help life sciences researchers work faster, Axios’ Megan Morrone reports.
Renewables get war boost
Illustration: Allie Carl/AxiosEarly signs are emerging that the energy shock tied to the Iran war could boost the global spread of renewables and other climate-friendly tech, Axios’ Ben Geman writes. 
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