Peoplerather

Peoplerather is a coined term used to describe a stance or policy approach that prioritizes human welfare and rights in decision-making, particularly in contexts such as AI deployment, automation, public policy, and resource allocation. It characterizes choices that orient outcomes toward people’s interests rather than abstract efficiency metrics or non-human considerations.

Origin and etymology: The word is a relatively late addition to online discourse, formed as a portmanteau of “people” and “rather” to express a preference for human-centered outcomes. It is typically used in discussions about ethics, technology governance, and policy design to signal a normative stance rather than a technical criterion.

Applications: In AI ethics, peoplerather arguments advocate for human-in-the-loop systems, informed consent, and minimization of harm to individuals. In disaster or crisis response, a peoplerather approach would prioritize shelter, medical care, and safety for people over other objectives such as speed or cost savings. In corporate and public policy, it can guide decisions toward employee well-being, customer safety, and community impact.

Criticism and limits: Critics argue that the term is vague and can obscure trade-offs between different human groups or with non-human concerns (such as environmental or animal welfare priorities). Its applicability depends on how “people” is defined and measured, potentially leading to ambiguity in objective criteria and in balancing competing interests.

See also: Human-centered design; ethics; policy; welfare economics.