This week we have been working on a project that focuses on civil liberties. While researching civil liberties I often came across the Patriot Act. This act is designed for America's national security, and to protect the country from terrorism. Among other activities, the Patriot Act allows for private phone conversations to be listened in on by the government.
Earlier today I received a test message message from AT&T FamilyMap reminding me that I can be located by my mom (the phone's location is available on an online map). Although my mom is the only person who is able to access the service that tracks the location of my cell phone, I am still uncomfortable with the knowledge that she can track me down whenever she doesn't know where I am. AT&T never asked my permission for this, and simply allowed it to happen because of my mother's request. I feel that this breaches my personal rights, and that this is basically 'big brother' watching me without my consent.
The Patriot act similarly watches over people for national security, but dismisses our personal rights. I feel very uncomfortable with my mom being able to track me down online without my consent, but even more uncomfortable that the government can just as easily listen to my conversations without my consent.
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