Overheard
by October 30th, 2008 Patrick Greer
At one time one of the biggest fears and concerns was something called, “Big Brother” but because of the Internet and new media tools like social networks, blogging, micro-blogging, photo sharing sites I think we have to be more concerned about what I like to call, “little brother.”
Sometimes big government is called big brother. The one who wants to either protect you or make make your life more difficult. We are alway worried about “big brother” watching where we surf on the Internet, what we buy, etc.
However it’s been funny and sometimes disturbing what I call those little brother or sister experiences. Heck even as an adult I have had children in the family who were watching me and quick to point out something I did that I was not supposed to do like eating candy before dinner or making loud noises while stretching at the table. (funny family story) .
I love just about every aspect of new media but I also love to study and be aware of potential negative issues as well that can cause it harm or at least embarrassment if we are not careful. Today I was reading my twitter feed and noticed a trend of people saying something on twitter. Overtime I have been seeing people make a post prefaced with the word, “overheard” followed by some odd phrase they heard someone say nearby. These phrases can be funny to downright disturbing. Do you realize that someone could be quoting you without you knowing and posting it on the Internet?
Are you thinking about “little brother” running around with his note pad, audio recorder (in the old day’s I would have called it a tape recorder) or camera? Is you company taking an active look at social media either by actively participating or monitoring what others are saying about you or your company? Do a Twitter search or subscribe to a Google Alert and see what you find.
October 31st, 2008 at 7:48 am
Ummm interesting new cautions. I am cautious to look video correct when I am shopping. There is no more casual shopping or walking to the car; because there is a camera logging my every move.
Also with all the cellphone cameras I realize someone may be shooting me at any moment! Recently I was dining and a woman took my picture. I asked her why. She liked my hairstyle and she was taking the picture to her hairdresser. Ummm…oh well. Now, my words may grab someone’s attention. Thanks for the warning, but living is getting complicated; don’t you think?
October 31st, 2008 at 9:48 am
There’s always something to watch out for. No matter the time period someone is always watching. As an adults we have to remember children are watching too. Some people think I got into this field because I liked everything about it but not true. I also see the dangers and want to be aware of things as well. Even if one is not an active participant in new media it behooves them to be aware and monitor.
November 3rd, 2008 at 10:57 am
People have always been watching and commenting. It is called gossip. The difference in today’s environment is that there is more often physical evidence to back up the gossip.
Politicians have always had to assume that the camera and microphone is turned on. Now, everybody should assume that. Lawsuits for slander are increasing, so be careful when speaking of others, lest you damage their reputation or income. There may be more evidence than ever to back up the claim.