What is data and how data affect our daily modern life?

Disclaimer: The writer is an enthusiastic learner with limited experience in this field, who is trying to put her humble knowledge into practice. She is aware of her shortcomings existence, however, she might not know where her limitations lie, please kindly point it out for her and the posterior reader. Thank you!

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1. What is data?

In a wide-ranged definition, data is a collection of facts in various forms such as numbers, words, measurements, observations, or even just descriptions of things.

According to the OECD, data are characteristics or information, usually numerical, that are collected through observation.

Fun fact: The word data is the plural form of datum, which was literally mean "something given" in Latin

Does it sound too technical? Let's try to see it more, well, humanly.

In general, data are everything around us. For instance, name, occupation, account balance, relationship status, songs, paintings, or a video—all these are forms of data.

Data could be anything and they are all around us

People create data everywhere, every time even without consciousness. And anyone, anything could be the subject of data. Don’t believe it? Consider this: Humans from the moment they are a single oocyte and sperm, carry the genetic data in their DNA molecules. During pregnancy, the unfulfilled creatures have been tested by measurements and measured with various indexes such as AC (abdominal circumference), EFW (estimated fetal weight), and TTC (transverse cerebellar diameter), etc. Life has not yet officially begun but the data have already been collected. And not just in the form of boring numbers, pregnancy heart sounds, ultrasound images are also a type of data, that an unknown humanoid creature has expressed, for people to measure, collect, analyze, and interpret.

Human-being is obviously not the only creatures in this universe that can produce data. An insect, a chair, or a river also generates data which is later collected to purposefully produce helpful information.

2. How does data affect our modern life?

In a world of "endless possibilities and boundless imagination, individuals are constantly navigating through a myriad of choices and opportunities. Each decision made, no matter how small, has the potential to shape the course of one's life. It is within this intricate web of choices that we find ourselves, grappling with the complexities of existence and the uncertainties of the future.

From the moment we wake up to the moment we lay our heads to rest, we are bombarded with a multitude of stimuli that demand our attention and action. The digital age has brought about a new dimension to this world, where information flows freely and connections are made instantaneously across vast distances."

You realize it or not, the text in the quote above was generated using AI. It is undeniable that AI is of great magnitude in today's world. It answers your questions with no judgmental glance, finds the song stuck in your head with just humming, summarizes a book, writes the essay for you, fixes your messy code in the blink of an eye, and fixes spelling and grammar in this paragraph. AI is fueled by data (to some extent, yes I know it's also fueled by strong infrastructure, cutting-edge semiconductors, and electricity).

So yes, data affects your life.

3. So what?

I will paste here also the text generated by AI. Sometimes AI can be more human than human, sometimes it plays as an enlightened Zen master who gives you valuable advice in life. What to do with the advice, on the other hand, depends on you and yourself.

"Yet, amidst this whirlwind of activity and noise, there exists a quiet space within each individual - a place of reflection, introspection, and contemplation. It is in this inner sanctum that we find solace and clarity, where we can make sense of the chaos that surrounds us and chart a path forward.

In a world of constant change and evolution, it is essential to cultivate a sense of resilience and adaptability. The ability to embrace uncertainty and navigate through the unknown with courage and grace is a skill that is invaluable in today's fast-paced society."