Why Privacy Matters

This book is a must read for all who participate in the digital world. I will provide a few key bullet points why I adore this book.Prof. Richards has a clear and engaging writing style . While reading this book, I felt like I was a Washington University law student having a 1-2-1 session with my professor.I found the topic of the "situated customer" very interesting. I know that companies can monitor real time click data and create customer profiles. Now I have an increased appreciation for consumer protection laws.The fact that technology can be used to change human behavior is fascinating and makes me think twice about what I am looking at online and why. In addition- I will never look at a privacy notice or cookie notice on a website the same way again.I really liked Prof Richards's explanation of information processing, information collection, information dissemination and invasion. I have to complete privacy impact assessments (PIA) at work. I now have clarity on why the questions in a PIA are asked.This book has inspired me to follow the Future of Privacy ForumHappy reading everyone- you will not regret your purchase.

This book is precisely what we need—a clear eyed, beautifully written, and richly developed argument about the issue of our age—the privacy of our personal data. Richards is a thinker par excellence. He gets to the heart of why we need to protect our privacy. He shows how companies and governments are gaining power over us by amassing our data, how that power risks our autonomy and identity, and how that power will run amuck if we don’t stand up for our privacy. Richards does all of this with stories and deep and clear thinking. Bravo!!!

Good book

Neil Richards has written the absolutely essential book on privacy in our times. This book isn't just for academics or practitioners. It's for everyone. Privacy is a topic that can be confusing or easily misunderstood. In "Why Privacy Matters," Richards starts at the very beginning with the basics and with clarity, elegance, and even humor, makes the case for privacy in our modern age. If you only read one book on our modern privacy predicament, read this one.

This wise, accessible, and well-evidenced book is essential reading for anyone interested in privacy. Richards makes a compelling case for the ongoing importance of privacy, refuting privacy detractors and fatalists alike. I will be assigning this book in class and giving it as gifts to friends. - Professor Ryan Calo

Exellent writing with tons of useful information.

I've read many, many books about information privacy in the digital age, and this one of the best! It is both sophisticated and super clear in equal measure. It's especially great for anyone who thinks, "privacy is dead, get over it" or "I have nothing to hide." I hope any engaged citizen picks this up to learn all about one of the important issues of the day from a bright and engaging writer.

This is a really well written, accessible, often humorous book about privacy. I am a privacy professional, and I enjoyed it and learned from it, but also I am giving it to some friends and family members to explain to them, "see, this is what I do and why it's important!"