Technology - There's Always a Flip Side

on Saturday, February 21, 2009

Something I came across on a wall at the Southbank in London. Clever commentary on the changing legislation that would (theoretically) allow TFL and/or the government to track citizens' movements across London's public transport network based on their use of the Oyster travel card. It's a big issue  - TFL claims that this helps them administer the system better - I can understand how statistical analysis of travel habits and patterns can make for a better system. But there's a flip side; the theoretical ability to track individuals' movements - very creepy. The classic example of technology that can be used for good or evil.

My two bits worth - EITHER:
human beings are inherently good, and if structured and incentivized correctly, systems like these can help the collective
OR:
eventually human nature / greed / whatever will cause this to be used in an inappropriate way

 Personally, I subscribe to the former - at least it gives us hope for a better tomorrow.  What do you think?

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