Question
Directions: Closely read each of the four texts provided on pages 11 through 18 and write a source-based argument on the topic below. You may use the margins to take notes as you read and scrap paper to plan your response. Write your argument beginning on page 1 of your essay booklet. Topic: Should companies be allowed to collect personal data? Your Task: Carefully read each of the four texts provided. Then, using evidence from at least three of the texts, write a well-developed argument regarding whether or not companies should be allowed to collect personal data. Clearly establish your claim, distinguish your claim from alternate or opposing claims, and use specific, relevant, and sufficient evidence from at least three of the texts to develop your argument. Do not simply summarize each text. Guidelines: Be sure to: • Establish your claim regarding whether or not companies should be allowed to collect personal data • Distinguish your claim from alternate or opposing claims • Use specific, relevant, and sufficient evidence from at least three of the texts to develop your argument • Identify each source that you reference by text number and line number(s) or graphic (for example: Text 1, line 4 or Text 2, graphic) • Organize your ideas in a cohesive and coherent manner • Maintain a formal style of writing • Follow the conventions of standard written English Texts: Text 1 – The WIRED Guide to Your Personal Data (and Who Is Using It) Text 2 – How Businesses Are Collecting Data (And What They’re Doing With It) Text 3 – How Companies Profit and Use Your Personal Data Text 4 – The Secretive World of Selling Data About You
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GPT-4o mini
**Should Companies Be Allowed to Collect Personal Data?**
In the modern digital landscape, the collection of personal data by companies has become ubiquitous, raising significant ethical and privacy concerns. While proponents argue that data collection fuels innovation and enhances user experiences, I assert that companies should be restricted in their ability to collect personal data due to risks related to privacy invasion, data security vulnerabilities, and the potential for misuse.
First and foremost, the invasion of privacy is a primary argument against unrestricted data collection. Text 2 illustrates that companies often collect more information than necessary for their operations, accumulating vast amounts of personal data that individuals might not be aware of. For instance, it states, “Many consumers do not realize that their phone apps track not just their location but also their browsing habits, purchasing decisions, and even their interactions with other apps” (Text 2, lines 18-20). This level of surveillance can lead to a profound sense of violation and a lack of control over personal information, which is foundational to individual autonomy.
Additionally, the potential for data breaches poses a significant risk. Text 3 highlights alarming statistics regarding data breaches, revealing that “over 50% of companies have experienced a data breach in the last two years” (Text 3, line 15). Such breaches not only compromise sensitive personal information, leading to identity theft and fraud, but also indicate that companies often lack the necessary safeguards to protect the data they collect. Thus, allowing companies to collect personal data without stringent regulations could lead to widespread financial harm and emotional distress for consumers.
Moreover, the misuse of collected data is a formidable concern. Text 4 details how companies can sell personal data to third parties without users’ explicit consent, stating, “User data is routinely sold to marketers and advertisers who might exploit it for targeted manipulation” (Text 4, line 22). This commodification of personal data can result in individuals being subjected to invasive marketing practices or even discrimination based on their online behavior. The power imbalances created by such practices undermine fair market principles and erode trust between consumers and businesses.
Opponents of restricting data collection often argue that it drives innovation and allows for personalized services that enhance user experiences. While it is true that data can foster improved products and services, such benefits must not come at the expense of consumer privacy and security. Companies can innovate within a framework that respects individual autonomy and adheres to ethical standards surrounding data use, striking a balance that does not require unregulated access to personal information.
In conclusion, companies should not be allowed to collect personal data without strict regulations. The invasion of privacy, heightened risks of data breaches, and potential misuse of information substantiate the need for protective measures. Emphasizing ethical data practices not only safeguards individual rights but also fosters a healthier environment for both consumers and businesses in the digital realm. It is imperative that as society progresses, we prioritize privacy and security over unchecked data collection.
In the modern digital landscape, the collection of personal data by companies has become ubiquitous, raising significant ethical and privacy concerns. While proponents argue that data collection fuels innovation and enhances user experiences, I assert that companies should be restricted in their ability to collect personal data due to risks related to privacy invasion, data security vulnerabilities, and the potential for misuse.
First and foremost, the invasion of privacy is a primary argument against unrestricted data collection. Text 2 illustrates that companies often collect more information than necessary for their operations, accumulating vast amounts of personal data that individuals might not be aware of. For instance, it states, “Many consumers do not realize that their phone apps track not just their location but also their browsing habits, purchasing decisions, and even their interactions with other apps” (Text 2, lines 18-20). This level of surveillance can lead to a profound sense of violation and a lack of control over personal information, which is foundational to individual autonomy.
Additionally, the potential for data breaches poses a significant risk. Text 3 highlights alarming statistics regarding data breaches, revealing that “over 50% of companies have experienced a data breach in the last two years” (Text 3, line 15). Such breaches not only compromise sensitive personal information, leading to identity theft and fraud, but also indicate that companies often lack the necessary safeguards to protect the data they collect. Thus, allowing companies to collect personal data without stringent regulations could lead to widespread financial harm and emotional distress for consumers.
Moreover, the misuse of collected data is a formidable concern. Text 4 details how companies can sell personal data to third parties without users’ explicit consent, stating, “User data is routinely sold to marketers and advertisers who might exploit it for targeted manipulation” (Text 4, line 22). This commodification of personal data can result in individuals being subjected to invasive marketing practices or even discrimination based on their online behavior. The power imbalances created by such practices undermine fair market principles and erode trust between consumers and businesses.
Opponents of restricting data collection often argue that it drives innovation and allows for personalized services that enhance user experiences. While it is true that data can foster improved products and services, such benefits must not come at the expense of consumer privacy and security. Companies can innovate within a framework that respects individual autonomy and adheres to ethical standards surrounding data use, striking a balance that does not require unregulated access to personal information.
In conclusion, companies should not be allowed to collect personal data without strict regulations. The invasion of privacy, heightened risks of data breaches, and potential misuse of information substantiate the need for protective measures. Emphasizing ethical data practices not only safeguards individual rights but also fosters a healthier environment for both consumers and businesses in the digital realm. It is imperative that as society progresses, we prioritize privacy and security over unchecked data collection.