New Dimensions in Privacy: Spatial Privacy in the Geographic Information Age

New Dimensions in Privacy: Spatial Privacy in the Geographic Information Age Abstract: The conceptualization of privacy as a right in the United States has most decidedly been an evolutionary work in process throughout much of the 20th century. There is some indication, however, that it has been more of a revolutionary process than an orderly evolution. According to Berry and Linoff, (1997), "Now is the era of another industry revolution driven by data running through computers, …

…and policy makers as well. According to Agre, (1997), there is a recognized need for policy makers to understand how privacy issues arise. To address the needs of effective privacy policy in the spatial domain it is imperative that policies that are formulated be based on a thorough understanding of the problem (Adams, 1999). This understanding must include public perception. Input and investigation is needed on all levels to achieve a functional balance between often competing interests.