It's a well known fact that automated life is rapidly improving, but many companies conduct their research to improve machines by using tracking technologies. Consumers want advanced machines, but don't want their privacy to be compromised.
CNN Money recently published an article about consumers' growing wariness regarding machines.
Marshall recalled a study in New York City where hundreds of participants gave personal data, such as a fingerprint, in exchange for a cookie. People think they don't want to be tracked, but in practice they routinely trade our privacy for something in return, like using Facebook or Google's services.
Would it be possible for companies to improve their products and services without compromising the privacy of consumers? Tracking the relevant population's habits is definitely helpful in tailoring products to what consumers would be likely to use. It seems to be a more efficient process but is this an ethically sound way to collect information, and is there a middle ground that would benefit both consumers and producers?
Many people don't realize that they are giving out personal data in return for inconsequential items like "a cookie", but in theory they are against invasion of privacy. How much of your privacy would you be willing to give up to use a company's services, especially if those services benefitted you? Location tracking is acceptable for GPS apps and photo apps, but what about monitoring your Google searches for customized advertising?
