We Are Data: LJ2
"Today, what we do in the world has at least the capacity to be observed, recorded, analyzed, and stored in a databank". For me, this quote from the "We Are Data" introduction sums up what I have read very well. It is learned early on in the introduction that whenever we go online, everything we do is being recorded and stored into a database. "We Are Data" breaks down how algorithms store everything that we are doing online and give us different labels based on our online activity. Over time, search patterns you use will continue to alter this profile on you. This is a scary thing. We are being labeled and pin pointed based off what what we do online but not who we are. "When we are made of data, we are not ourselves in terms of atoms". The whole reading is showing me that the internet is a place that is being used for much more than just a news source, entertainment, or connecting. It is being used to monitor, label, and "know" people. However, on the terms of data.
After reading the preface and introduction of "We Are Data" nothing will change about how I use the internet or social media. As stated in my last blog post, I am not using social media or the internet to post pictures of myself, put out my life, etc. I am using it for news purposes and thats about it. I do not care or mind that these footprints are being left. In terms of using social media in a professional capacity, I do not use much social media for that as it is, and reading "We Are Data" wont change that.
From an ethical standpoint, what is being done with the data being processed and provided through our online footprint is extremely unethical. However, we do not know where this data is going, who is analyzing it, etc. Nothing can really be done about the situation. I personally will try not to think about it. If I cannot do anything about an issue sometimes its best to not think about it.
Overall, reading this was scary, however, it was also something I already knew without having these types of details provided. I will continue to use social media and the internet in the capacity I do. This was a very good read.
Sources:
Cheney-Lippold, J. (2019). Introduction. In We are data: Algorithms and the making of our Digital Selves. introduction, New York University Press.
Cheney-Lippold, J. (2019). Preface. In We are data: Algorithms and the making of our Digital Selves. introduction, New York University Press.
Hi Dillon, I agree that nothing can really be done about the situation. As for the ethical standpoint of the situation, I would think that these companies have some sort of loophole on how this is allowable to consumers. They definitely reply on the terms and agreements they have us sign to even be able to use their products or access the internet.
ReplyDeleteHey Dillon, I enjoyed your analysis of the text for the week. I was especially interested in the section where you were discussing your own personal usage of the internet and social media. I could understand why you would not be as worried about a digital footprint due to the fact that you do not share much personal information. However, I am curious to know if you think it would be something worth worrying about for people that do post images of themselves as well as other potentially sensitive information. Overall, a very insightful post.
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