The Use and Abuse of a Word: People

Is people a word that unites and legitimizes power, as our Constitution states? Or is it a word we must use with caution, if not suspicion, because it has become a highly dangerous term, especially in politics? Everything is done “in the name of the people,” just as, blasphemously, “in the name of God.” The word is used with persistent casualness, most often—particularly in the political arena—to garner support. Today, in this very moment, “the people” can even be virtual, given the widespread use of social networks and artificial intelligence. This opens up scenarios that must certainly be feared, but also studied and, whenever possible, turned to our advantage.