Handbook

This course examines the use surveillance (the techniques of social control through the use of information technology) in both the public and private sectors, information privacy (or 'data protection') law and freedom of expression law as a response to security concerns. The pervasiveness of Internet use by business, government and citizens has surveillance, privacy protection, freedom of expression and security at the centre of the emerging information economy and information society. The course will examine issues, such as ‘fake news’, the Cambridge Analytica scandal, as well controversial Snowden revelations.  This subject examines surveillance, security and some of the legal and political underpinnings of democracy.  

Main Topics

• Overview of information privacy and data protection
• How does technology enhance the protection/impinge on civil liberties?
• (Mass-) Surveillance and freedom of expression
• Case studies