Attention programmers: An important part of our shared reality has been seized via trademarking by a corporation. Time is of the essence we fill this void and regain our agency. Join the effort …
In an age when the distinction between “data” and “information”, “data” and “knowledge” is blurred by disinformation actors, it’s crucial we retain, repair and strengthen our shared language for navigating these information spaces. The word “meta” was one such word. It means data that describes data. Example: “37” is data. “Customer_age” is metadata. A customer listed somewhere in a database is 37 years old, most likely.
Call to action: Draft a plan to retain the use of small-m ‘meta’ in our team and workplace conversations. Create ways to communicate ‘meta’ now that Facebook corporation has annexed this word for its own purposes. (Sound like a lot of work to you? Let’s hear your thoughts.)
By trademarking this language, attaching an infinity sign as a logo, Facebook corporation has mutated its meaning. Discuss!
Shared language evolves from shared reality. According to literacy experts, possessing a word to describe a concept or entity lends agency to act with, on, or around such concepts and entities.
What’s our new word, and how do we fend off future language encroachments?
Like language and words, your comments and contributions are invaluable.
What you can do: Do you ever catch the *original* use of “meta” in the wild? Capture it in photos; share, annotate, and generate conversation.
-First amendment champions need your help.-
Sincerely,
AJ
