In an age where instant communication and technology provide easy and ready access to information, the society and the individual is caught between two very controversial principles- open information and privacy. The perceptions and expectations of privacy are rapidly changing as a result of current developments in surveillance technologies. The question is are these new surveillance technologies endangering the values and morals of our democratic society, the society we have worked for many centuries to achieve? .
According to Webster's dictionary, surveillance is defined as a "close kept watch over someone or something." Surveillance is not a new concept, and has been used every since the beginning of civilization. However, with the influence of technology, it has evolved. Policing agents no longer need to use methods of surveillance such as listening through walls, looking through windows and over fences, and even sitting in a suspect's garbage. Because of the ongoing development of new technology, policing agencies can hear, see and track almost everyone and everything at any given time. However, are the citizens of the Canadian society sacrificing their freedom and privacy for the purpose of security? And if so, do surveillance technologies really help?.
There are five types of surveillance: 1. government looking at people; 2. establishments looking at people; 3. establishments looking at establishments or people looking at people; 4. people looking at establishments and 5. people looking at government. There are advantages and disadvantages to all types of surveillance as well as many ethical ssues.
The use of technological surveillance is one that affects all in a society. The types of technology that can and will be used must be determined. If this power is put into the hands of one person or one governing body, citizens are vulnerable to having their rights to privacy violated.