Data rights reconsidered: Reimagining digital freedom through Lefebvre’s Right to the City

This article explores an expanded conceptualization of data rights by drawing on Henri Lefebvre’s “right to the city” framework and engaging with the work of contemporary philosopher Byung-Chul Han. It argues that current discussions of data rights, rooted in individualistic property-based models, are insufficient to address the complex challenges posed by our increasingly datafied society. The author proposes a more holistic approach that considers how digital spaces and technologies shape human interaction, creativity, and potential.The paper introduces three key concepts: a “right to the platform,” emphasizing accessible and interoperable online spaces that foster genuine encounter and co-creation; a “right to the datafied city,” which calls for citizen participation in shaping surveillance technologies to preserve spaces for spontaneity and protest; and a “right to AI potentiality,” advocating for artificial intelligence applications that expand human imagination rather than reinforce existing power structures.By synthesizing Lefebvre’s ideas about urban space with contemporary digital realities, the article offers a novel framework for understanding how technology can either constrain or liberate human potential. It challenges readers to move beyond narrow conceptions of data ownership and privacy, instead considering how digital environments can be designed to nurture human flourishing, creativity, and meaningful social interaction. This approach provides a fresh perspective on ongoing debates about digital rights, AI ethics, and the future of online spaces.