Public Information :: essays research papers

Ever wonder how a person not admitn obtains critical information once unprocurable to the public? Nowadays, the easy access of computers makes it almost impossible for citizens to completely be out of the risk of privacy usurpation. Anything we do is being monitored discreetly or publically by others. Yet, there are different ways in which this issue can be viewed. It is harmful in the way that we do not know exactly what is being monitored by others, nor the way it is being used. Privacy intrusion helps us by monitoring those who may be harmful to others. Privacy trespass can be viewed as both harmful, and yet helpful.One type of privacy invasion is the placement of surveillance cameras. Cameras are made so petty today that one would have to stand less than a foot away to actually see the placement of the camera. In the article, "Nowhere to hide deprivation of Privacy Is the Ultimate Equalizer," Charles Platt states, "Right now, I can buy a KGB-surplus night scop e, a microtransmitter, or a videocamera thats half the size of a bundle up of cigarettes" (344).We can hardly go anywhere without the possibility of a camera watching our every move. This is a good thing in the sense that it gives to a greater extent security to public places. A thief will think twice about robbing a bank if there is a camera pointed directly at him. Prison riots will become obsolete since the video will tell all who started the riot. Surveillance camera footage can be used as deduction in the court of law. Just as cameras can be useful in the work field, they can also be used to abuse invasion of privacy. In the article, "Privacy and Technology," Gary T. Marx points out, "A college student secretly video registerd sexual encounters with a girlfriend. After breaking up with her, he played the tape for members of his fraternity. She learned of this and was victorious in a civil lawsuit, although no criminal statute had been violated" (325). Cam eras are also good for business. There will be fewer shoplifters sneaking away items at the mall or grocery store. Another type of privacy invasion is the background check of a authorisation employee. Businesses only want employees who will benefit the business itself. The owners think of employees as a type of investment. So, to make a good investment, the managers are ordered to life a background check on prospective applicants.