Cameras on Yonge St.?

In an article from the Toronto Sun on January 29, 2007 entitled 'Private cameras on Yonge St.?', a debate on the use of cameras in public areas is discussed. A business group wants to fund a year-long test where six cameras are set up in the heart of Yonge St.The organization feels that it will deter crime, make the area safer and be useful as a tool for police investigations. This same sentiment is expressed by local shop owners who believe it will help prevent crimes in the area.However, it may become an unwelcome presence for others who frequent the area. Some feel that it is an invasion of their privacy by having cameras placed in such a public area.

Essentially, they feel as though their sense of space will be altered through the cameras and the idea of being under a constant watch.This leads to a question of whether or not someone in a public area should expect a certain level of privacy of not. After all, when someone is in a public place, they are subject to being under a constant watch no matter what. While it may not be a focused watch on a certain individual, they are in public view. Therefore, whatever actions are committed in public areas (whether standing and chatting with a friend, or mugging someone) are seen regardless.

Are the people who oppose the cameras afraid of being caught while committing an illegal act, or are they being paranoid about being under watch, or are they simply defending their claim to privacy? All of these are legitimate questions and maybe apply differently to different people. However, I personally feel that the cameras will help in their fight against crime, and do not intrude on my privacy. The cameras are placed with a specific purpose and will carry out this goal. In no way will they be intruding on my personal space any more than I can expect while being in public. The very act of being in public relieves my expectation of privacy.

Steve Hunt