Data mining: Quietly changing our social contract

College selection, highlighted content on social networks, justice and predictive medicine, autonomous vehicles, crowd monitoring. Today algorithms are massively used in many parts of political, social and economic life. The terms "algorithm", "data" or "artificial intelligence" (AI) are often equated with magic words. Some people see these "tools" as infallible, perfectly rational beings whose help could prove invaluable in delegating certain tasks - and even certain responsibilities. But the massive collection of data and the widespread use of algorithms also constitute a threat to society, democracy and ultimately the social contract, which is the foundation of the modern conception of the state. In exchange for a service (most often free), users consciously or unconsciously delegate part of their decision-making power as well as the possibility of acting on their choices and opinions. The culmination of the cult of reason.