The Impacts of video Surveillance security system on society
Use of video surveillance cameras has been widely embraced in the current society globally both in private and public domains. They have enabled distance observation of people electronically. This has helped to curb crime and enhance public safety. Despite multiple benefits associated with camera surveillance, there have been several ethical concerns raised by the society concerning them. This paper will explore on ethical, social, professional and legal issues associated with use of video surveillance cameras.
CCTV use has led social problems such as discriminatory observation processes and asymmetrical relations where by the monitoring target different groups of individuals disproportionately. Mostly targeted groups are homeless, drug dealers, mentally ill and homeless. The observers monitor bodily appearance and behaviors which forms the basis of judgment. The judgment depends on moral conviction and outlined normative categories invoked by operators. In addition, there is inbuilt asymmetry implied during the monitoring process whereby the observant are radically exposed while the operators are hidden. This has negatively affected individuals self- respect, self- image, sense of freedom and self- determination Don't use plagiarised sources.Get your custom essay just from $11/page
Automatic close observation frameworks have also posed various moral concerns such as seclusion, discretion, certainty and freedom. Discretion refers to the responsibility of assigning data collected from CCTV footages only to the legally authorized people. According to Information safety act, data regarding events should only availed only when there is a mutual consent between CCTV supervisor and and affected party. Seclusion is attained when one has a space for privacy. Privacy is attained when all illegitimate attitudes and judgments by outsiders are blocked from one’s life. However, CCTV surveillances provides grounds evaluation of one’s life by outsiders. This leads to lose of freedom for normal behavior.
Extensive use of video surveillance has put some constitutionally protected values at stake. Such values include privacy, discrimination and democratic right of free expression. Officials tend to use surveillance system to discriminate against certain individuals based on their gender , religion and race.in addition, presence of surveillance cameras limits the freedom of individuals to share their thoughts and associate freely due to fear of identification.
In conclusion, ethical, legal and social issues will remain of great concern in the society despite the great contribution by camera video surveillance in achievement of highly valued goal such ascrime prevention and public safety.
References
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