Chapter 62 Summary

In chapter 62, The Political Economy of Privacy on Facebook by Christian Fuchs, the issues of privacy on Facebook are addressed. A new privacy policy has been adopted which causes lots of people to react in differing ways. Facebook is used by over 1.15 billion users which is why it is no surprise that this new policy causes lots of controversy. Moreover, most users of Facebook are not aware of the current policy and disregard the message when Facebook posts that they have a new policy. However, when or if something significant happens to their own privacy, then they are bothered and extremely outspoken about it. The new privacy policy of Facebook is analyzed thoroughly throughout the chapter. It is noted that corporations collect personal data and internet usage and sell it to third party advertising agencies. The users of Facebook are not aware with what information is being taken and shared to these third party agencies. As a result, it is difficult for them to protect themselves. Facebook shares this privacy policy, but the users simply accept it and move on. This policy has made many users upset, but I believe it is helpful because ads are shown to me that I would admire more than random ones. I almost always browse the advertisements shown to me on Facebook and shop through the information given to me. As long as my Facebook pictures are not posted on a billboard, I do not feel anxiety if corporations are sharing my information with advertising companies. I am also surprised with the new policy that Facebook introduced recently with the profiles of individuals who have passed. It interests me of where the future of Facebook will go.