I’m rejoicing in The Guardian and The Observer’s outstanding work getting people to see the damage done through improper use of data from Facebook – from helping get Trump elected to stirring up hatred and prejudice. In 2004, Facebook’s founder, Mark Zuckerburg, called people who gave Facebook their information “Dumb Fucks” then built a multi-billion dollar business on people’s ignorance and trust in the name of bringing folks together as a force for good.
In fact, exploiting the data people entrust Facebook with is the company’s business model – no wonder Zuckerburg has struggled to find something appropriate to say. Sorry really doesn’t cut it. So great work that also enabled the Channel 4 expose Cambridge Analytica’s fabulous moral code…but am INFURIATED by this. I mean really, WTF?
The Guardian is famously strapped for cash. Having renewed my Guardian membership means I support its journalism and the courage of its campaigns. So I am cross to see it fritter away any portion of my £49 a year on the postage, printing, paper and staff time needed to get this straight-in-the-bin certificate and accompanying letter to me. And to act in such an environmentally unfriendly way, recycled paper not withstanding.
Seriously unimpressed. Or is it just me?
The Persistent Woman 