Week 10 - Surveillance

The topic of this class I found extremely interesting (not just because I gave a presentation!) for one reason that we never really discussed. We established that surveillance systems as they are now are not as effective as they ought to be, so vast improvement is needed. However, we really didn't get in to how to balance surveillance and personal privacy/individual rights. This will undoubtedly interfere with the ability to implement effective systems in the future as people will not want to give up their privacy. I think the only way to convince people that surveillance is necessary and to construct a system that works, will be to exhibit a transparency in information and procedures as well as a build a structure that is mindful of personal privacy. While steps must be taken to assure safety and prevent widespread panic, better and more in depth information must be available to establish a solid and trustworthy rapport between agencies and organizations and the public. The SARS problem in China is a perfect example. Because the government's immediate reaction was to hide what was going on, not only did the disease spread more quickly and through more people than necessary, but a feeling of mistrust was bred. We also discussed this same issue in relation to airlines and health emergencies. I see the reason for airport scanners that detect certain heat signals within the human body when illness is present, but is this a violation of personal privacy? And as a member of the public, how do I trust those machines, the people running them, and what happens to the information they collect? Already we have given up rights written up in the Bill of Rights upon which this country was founded in the name of national security, but is this right? A balance must be established between personal privacy and national security, especially when it comes to health. Health is a personal thing, but also a global thing, and as many other countries have defined it: a human right. Before we can moved forward with an effective plan for surveillance, the rights to both health and privacy should be recognized on a global level.