"Wes Chaar brings to the table a formidable trove of more than two decades of experience in the realm of data science, an odyssey that stretches across an impressively eclectic array of disciplines. His recent book, Data Independence, not only encapsulates this vast experience but also positions him as a wise observer of technological evolution. His book opens a gateway to new dialogues about data--a field that, as Wes convincingly argues, should be accessible and inviting to all. In reading his reflections, one is struck by the portrait of a man not merely present at the crossroads of history but actively shaping the confluence of technology and daily life across multiple industries. Wes Chaar invites us all to step through the door he holds open, into a conversation about data that is as expansive as it is essential." -- Joe Raaen Data employee "Wes Chaar has consistently been at the forefront of innovation, always pushing the envelope with unique ideas and solutions. Renowned as a disruptor, he has often introduced concepts that challenge the status quo and encourage a fresh perspective on prevailing issues. In Data Independence, Wes continues on this path by tackling the issue of data privacy.

Drawing from over two decades of experience in data science, he demystifies the complex dynamics of the data economy, revealing how our personal data is used and monetized. But more importantly, he proposes a groundbreaking framework for reform--a systematic approach centered on data consent, data control, and data currency. Data Independence isn''t just about understanding the mechanics of data privacy; it''s a call to action. It encourages us to think differently about our offline and online presence and to take decisive steps toward reclaiming our data autonomy. For anyone interested in the future of privacy and the role of data in our society, Wes Chaar''s book is an essential read. It promises not just to inform but to transform how we interact with our digital world. As always, Wes remains a steadfast disruptor, charting the path toward a better future and world." -- Suzanne Morris Telecom executive "During a time when data is gathered from all kinds of sources, distributed through many channels, and leveraged to enhance business and marketing operations, consumers should question their rights and abilities to choose what happens to data specifically related to them, their activities, and their lives.

Data serves as the quiet, invisible, yet highly informative digital DNA, revealing more about us than we might realize. As such, we should consider the management of this information in the same way we''d protect our biological DNA from those able to leverage our personal fabric purely for company profit. Younger generations, digital natives, have grown up with the notion of cameras watching their every move in retail environments and in public, devices capturing features such as eyes, facial bone structure, thumbprints, voice signatures, and other data gathering as a part of their daily lives. However, privacy and freedom are interconnected constructs when it comes to personal data. Without the choice to research and decide the right paths and purposes for personal data, there is no real data independence. Dr. Chaar''s frameworks for how to consider the privacy-freedom paradigm will surely appeal to the common consumer and open their eyes to the tragedy of a corporate status quo involving data capture without real choice. He illustrates how the release of this personal digital DNA provides limited benefit to the consumer, and even sometimes risks or negative consequences, with mostly positive outcomes to companies.

The straight-forward, yet brilliant ideas put forth provide new ways for consumers to encourage policymakers to allow for data independence and may change the way you see the world, your interactions with brands, and your connection with businesses as part of our highly technology-driven lives. It is my hope this work of art and science will inspire consumers and motivate governmental institutions to rethink our way of operating in a more data independent environment for the future." -- Beverly Wright Data Science & AI thought leader "After dedicating over two decades to the data and analytics industry, Wes Chaar recognized that the systems he helped develop were becoming increasingly problematic, sparking concerns about their long-term implications. In his book, he offers a historical analysis of how well-intentioned engineers over the past forty years have built a vast market that now drives the global economy but often at the cost of personal privacy. He discusses the concept of privacy as a fundamental, albeit implicitly recognized, right by the founding fathers of the United States. The book serves as an essential guide to understanding the journey of personal data and illustrates, through straightforward examples, how something as simple as casual conversations can quickly translate into targeted advertisements. While acknowledging the widespread consensus on the issues of data privacy, Wes proposes a novel approach to empower individuals with control over their data, suggesting a framework no more invasive than the financial oversight seen on Wall Street." -- Nikolaos Vasiloglou AI industry expert.