Proliferation and Social Effects of Video Surveillance Systems

The contribution seeks to reflect upon the impact of new information and communication technologies (ICTs) on the private sphere. It explores the meaning and significance of the term privacy in the light of the intensive and sustained development of the digital infrastructures of modern societies. Particularly it analyses the rapid introduction and diffusion of Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) surveillance systems in public places. Nowadays the technology of visual surveillance is relatively cheap and accessible to a broad segment of consumers. CCTV are deployed for a variety of risk management purposes and are used in both public and private settings. They are considered as an important tool in deterring burglary, vandalism, assault, car theft and in combating anti-social behaviour, such as littering, unauthorised access, urinating in public, traffic violations, obstruction, and drunkenness. The lives of ordinary people are becoming increasingly transparent but, unfortunately, there are very few studies about the consequences of surveillance cameras. The rapid spatial and social expansion of CCTV makes the analysis of their implications for public space very important. My research project, based on a qualitative study, aims at understanding the social effects of CCTV. It explore what people know about CCTV, how they experience CCTV in relation to their everyday life, and how they feel about the impacts CCTV may have on their own behaviour.