In a phase of unchecked technological euphoria, Stocker's method of "pessimistic correction" proves to be a strategic necessity. His contribution forms the moral backbone of the book by marking the system's limits where tech companies' marketing suggests omniscience. Stocker condenses complex philosophical risks into concise sentences that act as intellectual stumbling blocks. In the workshop, these sentences become tools to deconstruct supposedly objective AI results. Discussed are the limits of machine thinking, the illusion of control, social exclusion, the dangers of superintelligence, and the dampening of creative potential. These theoretical "warnings" are not endpoints but methodical interventions that mark the transition from naive tool use to reflective control competence. Stocker's pessimism is thus not a "brake on progress," but a competence that protects strategic users from succumbing to the "illusion of predictability": Statistical predictive ability must not be confused with capturing reality. A central motif of his critique is the exposure of manipulative tactics. AI platforms are designed to simulate a "pseudo-friendship"—for example, through flattering psychological profiles—to increase user binding to the system. Sovereignty begins where this emotional manipulation is recognized and named as a customer retention instrument.
Learning Objectives:
From User to Filter Strategist: Sovereignty means taking on the role of an incorruptible fact-checker and editor.
Develop Contextual Resilience: Strategists must consistently embed AI results in specific socio-ethical contexts.
Preserve Creative Autonomy: AI must never become the source of strategic vision to avoid intellectual dependency.
Topics Covered: Critical reflection to transform from passive consumers into active directors of their own practice.
Tools: Method of "Pessimistic Correction".
