A petition made by writers that touches us all
I don’t know if petitions work. I don’t know if demonstrations work. All I know is that it is better than keeping quiet and this is something that touches all of us even those who don’t live a digiatlised life because we do live in a digitalised world. I was alerted by Shane at The Irish Writing blog that 562 authors from over 80 countries have joined together to create this petition and take half-page ads in 30 newspapers today December 10th 2013
They say:
It is an appeal in defense of civil liberties against surveillance by corporations and governments.
In recent months, the extent of mass surveillance has become common knowledge. With a few clicks of the mouse the state can access your mobile device, your e-mail, your social networking and Internet searches.
It can follow your political leanings and activities and, in partnership with Internet corporations, it collects and stores your data, and thus can predict your consumption and behaviour.
The basic pillar of democracy is the inviolable integrity of the individual. Human integrity extends beyond the physical body. In their thoughts and in their personal environments and communications, all humans have the right to remain unobserved and unmolested.
Writers who have signed this petition include Alice Walker, Ian McEwan, Jeanette Winterson, Margaret Atwood, Roddy Doyle, Colm Tóibín, Joanne Harris, Julian Barnes, Martin Amis and Henning Mankell. At the time of writing 20,572 people have joined them. Read the petition in full and be part of it if you agree
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