TAD 7
Natasha Oslinger
3-2-16
1. Do you think that the use of surveillance cameras in public places enhances or reduces personal security? Explain.
In my opinion, surveillance cameras in public places enhance personal security. I believe surveillance cameras, when used correctly and in an appropriate fashion, help reduce/prevent crime. With the constant idea that someone is watching, people will deter from committing petty theft or vandalism, and if one has nothing to hide, then they shouldn’t be concerned by the presence of surveillance. I believe surveillance cameras are helpful in today's world because they provide a sense of security to the general population that wouldn’t commit a crime and would make people with criminal tendencies think twice before acting on impulses. To counter the argument that the use of public surveillance cameras invade personal security, one could argue that someone should not need privacy in public areas. Shops, for example, should be a place to purchase items. If one is there simply to pay for a service in a legal and socially appropriate way, why would they be concerned that someone would see it happen? Only when the surveillance cameras are used inappropriately, i.e. in dressing rooms or bathrooms, does it become an invasion of privacy.
2. What about automatic toll payment technology that allows you to move more quickly through highway toll gates but also collects information on where you go and when you get there?
Considering how close I live to the city, I have only ever found automatic toll booths helpful. When I am going in and out of the city, I can save up to about half an hour of time waiting in line behind other cars and trucks by using an automatic toll booth. Considering how helpful it is, I couldn’t care less that the government now knows when and at what times I passed through a particular toll booth.
3. Do you think laws will ensure that some privacy remains, or are we on a road to the elimination of personal privacy?
While it may seem that we are reaching a point of no return with the sustainment of personal privacy, I do not believe the idea of privacy is futile. I believe with the right morals and laws set in place, the complete elimination of privacy can be prevented. As long as those who have control don’t take advantage of their ability to surveil the population, and people do not “cross the line” in appropriate surveillance, privacy will not be eliminated.
Natasha Oslinger
3-2-16
1. Do you think that the use of surveillance cameras in public places enhances or reduces personal security? Explain.
In my opinion, surveillance cameras in public places enhance personal security. I believe surveillance cameras, when used correctly and in an appropriate fashion, help reduce/prevent crime. With the constant idea that someone is watching, people will deter from committing petty theft or vandalism, and if one has nothing to hide, then they shouldn’t be concerned by the presence of surveillance. I believe surveillance cameras are helpful in today's world because they provide a sense of security to the general population that wouldn’t commit a crime and would make people with criminal tendencies think twice before acting on impulses. To counter the argument that the use of public surveillance cameras invade personal security, one could argue that someone should not need privacy in public areas. Shops, for example, should be a place to purchase items. If one is there simply to pay for a service in a legal and socially appropriate way, why would they be concerned that someone would see it happen? Only when the surveillance cameras are used inappropriately, i.e. in dressing rooms or bathrooms, does it become an invasion of privacy.
2. What about automatic toll payment technology that allows you to move more quickly through highway toll gates but also collects information on where you go and when you get there?
Considering how close I live to the city, I have only ever found automatic toll booths helpful. When I am going in and out of the city, I can save up to about half an hour of time waiting in line behind other cars and trucks by using an automatic toll booth. Considering how helpful it is, I couldn’t care less that the government now knows when and at what times I passed through a particular toll booth.
3. Do you think laws will ensure that some privacy remains, or are we on a road to the elimination of personal privacy?
While it may seem that we are reaching a point of no return with the sustainment of personal privacy, I do not believe the idea of privacy is futile. I believe with the right morals and laws set in place, the complete elimination of privacy can be prevented. As long as those who have control don’t take advantage of their ability to surveil the population, and people do not “cross the line” in appropriate surveillance, privacy will not be eliminated.