Not long ago, video cameras were cumbersome pieces of equipment. They required long cables and stored images on bulky magnetic tape cassettes. Recent advances in optics, digital imaging, and electronic technology have revolutionized video equipment. High-quality digital video cameras that are able to store their images in a variety of convenient formats are now very affordable. Extremely small, battery-powered video cameras are also available to the public.
However, not everyone is excited about the spread of affordable video technology. The explosion in the number of cameras being used for surveillance purposes is a huge concern to many Americans. Is your right to privacy being violated?
Video Surveillance Is Not an Invasion of Privacy
Video surveillance is an existing and proven technology that is very effective for many purposes. Traffic cameras on highways help motorists avoid accidents and traffic jams. Video cameras in stores have been used for years to deter and help capture shoplifters. Many major cities have installed cameras at large intersections, to photograph drivers who run red lights. Citations from such systems have cut down on traffic violations and on pedestrian accidents. Sophisticated video systems at some airports can identify known criminals before they board an airplane. The common thing in all of these examples is that the general public is safer because of the use of video surveillance cameras. Having some of our actions recorded on video is a small price to pay for our greatly increased safety.
Video Surveillance Violates a Person's Right to Privacy
Video surveillance comes at a very high price— the loss of personal privacy. Our society is quickly heading toward the day when any individual can be tracked throughout an entire day. Do you want the government and private companies to know every aspect of your life? The United States Supreme Court has stated that some acts that violate a person's reasonable expectation of privacy constitute an illegal search. Yet these actions are going on every day! Video surveillance, which is currently out of control, is just one of many threats to a person's right to a private life. Strict laws designed to protect a person's right to privacy need to be enacted as soon as possible.
Defining the Issue Use your own words to describe at least two of the major issues involved in the use of video surveillance cameras.
Analyzing the Viewpoints List the arguments for and against the use of video surveillance cameras. What are the advantages? What are the disadvantages or risks?
Forming Your Opinion Is video surveillance an invasion of your right to privacy? If so, in what situations, if any, is it acceptable?
Going Further Research a recent court case involving video surveillance and privacy. Write a short report summarizing the case. Explain why you agree or disagree with the decision.