Privacy in the digital age

Maybe Griswold was ruled just in the nick of time. In 1965, the Supreme Court first ruled that there exists a constitutional right to privacy (in that particular case, marital privacy to use contraceptives). That right is commonly and rightfully assumed in our culture. Now, more than ever, privacy is needed as the Internet and digital technology breaks traditional barriers. I recently read about Facebook's long history with privacy intrusions. Indeed, it is quite befuddling to tackle the privacy controls on Facebook - I tried but still cannot master it. Likewise, Google's collection of users' data for its satellite maps is also troubling. Sure, we appreciate the useful Google Apps but would prefer that our cars and pools remain off limits to remote public eyes.

Facebook and Google are just the biggest players. Granted, we are not Britain where public surveillance exists to an uncomfortable degree (thank goodness Labour's ID cards scheme has been scrapped by the coalition). Nonetheless, a sizable number of Americans are worried about big government and corporations looking over their shoulders. Technology plays a dual role: it liberates us to do new things but also breaks barriers that once protected private actions from public scrutiny. We are no longer sure. In fact, we are insecure about the privacy and sanctity of the home, an interest long protected by common law. Computer viruses pop up unexpectedly. Telemarketers continue to call. One paper not shredded may result in identity theft. Sometimes, this makes me (and likely others) want to board a raft and flee for an atoll.