The article I choose to read was Codes of life: identification codes and the machine-readable world by Martin Dodge and Rob Kitchin.
I was initially intrigued by this article because of the vertical lines forming a rectangle, similar to that of a universal product code (UPC) barcode we are all somewhat familiar with.
Codes of life: identification codes and the machine-readable world talks about many different types of codes that are assigned to people, objects, locations, as well as others. As it turns out these codes are generated using mathematical algorithms. Though the concept had been around 30 years prior, it was not developed for use until the 70’s. The first item to have a UPC barcode was a package of chewing gum; it was first used in Troy, Ohio on June 26, 1974. About two years later three-fourths of US supermarket goods had their own barcode. Barcodes became very important in making the checkout process more efficient.
Some codes are used to increase workplace production and efficiency, some to provide security, while others are used to monitor the employee’s performance and whereabouts. Codes can be used to make calculated decisions eliminating human error and in some cases replacing the need for human workers.
With the advancement of technology we can now track things closer than ever before. We have GPS units that tell us where in the world we are (or where someone else is). We have transaction codes that aid us in purchases with things like credit cards and ATM cards. We have territorial codes that help track and manage populations and businesses. The ability to continually track a person’s activities and movements is getting increasingly easier and more affordable with advances in computer storage.
Life has certainly become more “efficient” and “continent” but at what cost? Do we have any privacy left, and if so for how long?
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Fortunately, private holders of information usually have a confidentiality policy and won't just lend out information to people unless it specifically says so in print on contracts. Of course, that could be a naive statement as we don't really know who has our stuff until we find out the hard way, or worse, possibly not at all. The whole "what you don't know won't kill you" thing is definitely a half-truth.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you....at what cost? is convenience and efficiency worth it? for most yes....when a lot of us have tons of things going on in our lives, convenience is of great importance. do i care if my information is locked and stored for whomever to see....of course i do, but does it impact me enough to not do the things i've grown accustomed to doing, no! it's a win-lose, win-win, or lose-lose situation.
ReplyDeleteyes, you pulled some key info from the article.
ReplyDelete