paranoid architecture
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I am starting a dissertation on various things that contribute to paranoid spaces. There is a discussion about CCTV cameras on my site (http://www.cyburbanspace.com – sorry about the shameless plug) and am wondering if anyone has an opinion? Is CCTV an invasion of privacy or a useful tool in crime prevention?
I’d say CCTV is more of a ‘crime fighting tool than an invasion of privacy.
I’ve seen lots of ‘CCTV’ here in Britain, both in public spaces and in (semi- private (university)) buildings.
I saw at least one programme on British TV last year about a notorious residential area (Manchester i think) where a huge pole was erected solely for the purposes of watching one non-descript street in particular and others near it (it was a success apparently).Isn’t there a government (ireland) project/fund for putting up CCTV cameras in 10 Irish towns (like Bray)?
There are numerous studies showing that the problem with cctv is who is doing the watching. The operators have a set of “guidelines”, which basically amount to anyone who looks suspicious. Their own prejudices apply. Clive Norris and Gary Armstrong from Hull university have a book out criticing the current uses of cctv.
I’ve also been looking into mobile phones and how by carrying one, we are allowing our movements to be monitored all the time.
I think that CCCTV can be beneficial really despite the Orwellian ‘Big Brother is Watching You’ connotations. Anything thing that adds to making cities safer places to live can only be good. It has been proven to be quite successful in heeding crime.The paranoia can only lie with those who are up to no good.
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