The Right to Privacy vs Technological Innovation

The Right to Privacy vs The Interests of Technological Innovation: Reflecting on the Delicate Balance

Christopher James Eaton

The societal interest in the constant progression of technological innovation must at every stage be carefully balanced with the Right to Privacy. The current law establishes a well-considered balance which favours the Right to Privacy, and thus the Rights of the Individual, whilst allowing significant technological innovation without needlessly hindering its progress. This essay will explore the basis of this law, the balance it strikes and why this balance in its current form is appropriate, then look to the future at proposed legislation which is passing through the Houses of Parliament at the time of writing and critique that the proposals threaten the balance in a way which is not necessarily positive for either side of the equation.

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