D4TC: Data | Surveillance

How we analyze data plays a major role in how we interpret data. Apophenia is a style that should be applied in analyzing data. Seeing patterns and rhythms is how basic systems and technology are formed. Each individual moves to their own rhythm and that plays a key role in who they are as an individual. The same goes with data, we can not fully understand the data unless we understand the general pattern and rhythm that exists within certain sets of data and information. Since our society, our system of life relies so heavily on data the thought of someone throwing away data thinking it’s useless when in fact it was necessary to the pattern is pretty terrifying. Patterns and Rhythms have been studied for years, this old school focus for observation should never be overlooked.

“Pattern recognition was an important asset of neolithic technologies too. It marked the transition between magic and more empirical modes of thinking. The development of the calendar by observing patterns in time enabled more efficient irrigation and agricultural scheduling. Storage of cereals created the idea of property.”

Surveillance. The police using a drone to spy on the city of Compton is not ok. Yes there is crime and yes in this day and age we are being watched constantly but still privacy should be a basic understanding that is attained. As new devices and technology ,in the realm of bank cards, ads, cameras, and surveillance, are created our privacy is diminishing. People are becoming accustomed to being watched, which is just a weird thought because it makes it seem like we are animals in a zoo. We go about our days in our own patterns and rhythms while another being simply watches us. This is like tracking, in my mind tracking has a negative implication. When things are being tracked it means that they’re being hunted. These devices that watch us is an invasion of our privacy, but it’s also used as a way to make the hunting easier and quicker. To be honest tho, the devices aren’t the real issue, the problem lies in how we are just letting ourselves be watched.