What do you think is Elliott’s message or argument in Article 1?
I think Elliot’s argument is to inform and raise concerns on the use of biometrics as a way of verifying one’s identity, which violates a person’s privacy. He highlights both the advantages and disadvantages of the use of fingerprints and facial recognition software in controlling the entry and exit of people in specific places such as an airport.
- Do you agree or disagree with the author’s argument? Explain your answer.
I agree with the author because the use of biometrics has been proven to enhance service delivery, and the only concern is the purpose and security of the collected data. If those concerned guarantees that data is only for the intended purpose and measures are put in place to ensure that information is secure, then I endorse the use of fingerprints and facial recognition software as a way of personal identification. Also, I think it should be optional and consensual.
- Select either Article 2 or 3 for questions 3-5. What is the author’s argument?
I chose article 2. The article is arguing against the privatization of prisons and states that the disadvantages outweigh the advantages. The article explains that despite the economic benefits of for-profit prisons, their mode of operation is highly questionable.
- What examples or evidence does the author provide to support his or her argument?
The article provides data from a New York Times investigative report that highlighted issues in privatized prisons such as understaffing, low wages, unskilled staff indicating a disregard for safety (“For-Profit Prisons”). Also, the article references data from a 2016 report by the US Department of Justice, showing a statistical comparison between federal and for-profit prisons. The data indicates that there are more assault rates in private prisons than there are in federal prisons (“For-Profit Prisons.”).
- Do you agree or disagree with the author’s argument? Explain your answer.
I agree with the article because I think of-profit prisons are more prone to mismanagement since the correction companies might focus more on making a profit while disregarding the welfare of the staff and inmates.
Works Cited
“For-Profit Prisons.” Gale Opposing Viewpoints Online Collection, Gale, 2019. Gale In Context: Opposing Viewpoints, https://link-gale-com.dcccd.idm.oclc.org/apps/doc/AVXFOZ399375811/OVIC?u=txshracd2500&sid=OVIC&xid=89c65263. Accessed 26Jan. 2020.
Elliott, Christopher. “Facial-recognition technology stokes privacy concerns.” Washington Post, 23 Jan. 2020, p. NA. Gale In Context:Opposing Viewpoints, https://link-gale-com.dcccd.idm.oclc.org/apps/doc/A612052777/OVIC?u=txshracd2500&sid=OVIC&xid=e99a2c9d. Accessed 26 Jan. 2020.