The Private Is Political: Networked Privacy and Social Media

Online privacy is under constant attack by social media and big data technologies, particularly for marginalized and disadvantaged communities. Alice E. Marwick offers a new theory of "networked privacy" to address this issue, revealing how current legal and technological frameworks are inadequate. She suggests that safeguarding privacy must happen at the collective level.

Format: Hardback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 25 July 2023
Publisher: Yale University Press

Online privacy is facing relentless threats from the combination of social media and big data technologies. However, we cannot solely rely on individual efforts to address this issue; it requires a collective and systemic approach. Alice E. Marwick presents a groundbreaking perspective on how privacy is endangered, particularly for marginalized and disadvantaged communities such as immigrants, the poor, people of color, LGBTQ+ populations, and victims of online harassment.

Marwick demonstrates that there are limited resources and regulations in place to prevent the widespread dissemination of personal information on the internet. Through her novel theory of "networked privacy," she exposes the inadequacies of current legal and technological frameworks in addressing privacy concerns, often intentionally. By conducting interviews and focus groups with a diverse range of Americans, Marwick reveals that even heavy social media users value privacy and engage in extensive "privacy work" to safeguard it.

However, individuals face formidable challenges in protecting their privacy in the modern internet landscape. Safeguarding privacy requires a collective effort and a shift in mindset. It is essential to recognize that privacy is a fundamental human right and that it should be protected at the societal level. We need to develop comprehensive policies, regulations, and technologies that prioritize privacy and empower individuals to control their data.

Furthermore, we must address the underlying social and economic inequalities that contribute to privacy breaches. Marginalized communities often lack the resources and knowledge to protect their privacy, making them more vulnerable to exploitation and discrimination. It is our responsibility to create an inclusive and equitable digital environment that ensures privacy rights for all.

In conclusion, the close relationship between privacy and inequality has been amplified by social media and big data technologies. We cannot afford to overlook this issue any longer. It is time for a collective and proactive approach to safeguard privacy and promote social justice for all. By working together, we can create a digital world that respects and protects the privacy of individuals and empowers them to thrive in a connected society.

Weight: 748g
Dimension: 164 x 242 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780300229622