The Privacy Argument from my side of the fence

I just thought I’d share my thoughts on the recent uproar over privacy.

So Google updating their privacy agreements has recently brought many questions to the blogosphere regarding how it collects and uses personal data such as browsing habits. You know what? Google can have my information! In fact, I’m actively seeking ways I can plug myself deeper into The Matrix Google. No, seriously.

See, I’m a natural optimist and so I can see this as a hugely significant part of my online existence. Maybe I don’t have all the facts, or maybe I’m missing something, but it seems like lately, many web users seem to be taking issue with the insurgency of the “personal web” i.e the way social networks and browsers can now collect and use data for various purposes.

Here’s my perspective: I’m 23 years of age; why would I want to see ads and content suggestions related to “looking 10 years younger”? I don’t… And I don’t think I ever will. I will grow old gracefully when my time comes; so why would I object to Google collecting my age or certain personality traits? If Google knows I’m not in the least bit concerned about my complexion or penis size (ladies ) then these ads will pass me by completely.

I’m a guy that loves a) fantasy games, especially RPG computer games b) web development and c) social blogging – I WANT Google to know this about me. Then I’ll get ads on my browsing experience related to design or related to a new computer game being released soon.

There’s a resistance towards getting a tailored web experience and it’s pointless. Sure there are downsides, perhaps browsing a pornographic website will show sex ads to my girlfriend when she uses my machine (that’s why I use incognito browsing for this purpose), or perhaps Google will sell my browsing history to the highest bidder with the hope that it can make money from me. To be honest, from my perspective, the benefits far outweigh the costs. Please let me know if I’m way off the mark here with my argument.

Also, on a similar note, if I was a user of Path, the recently defamed social network, I don’t think I’d be worried about the submitted contact details. I’d love for an extra dimension to meeting and networking with people I know. They should have included their opt in strategy from the beginning but their intentions were entirely pure.

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