City University London - Watching the watchers

The cultural, political, economic and social implications of surveillance are the focus of a new masters programme. City University London has launched an MA in surveillance studies, which it said would allow those who use surveillance methods and technologies to develop a deeper understanding of the ethical and legislative considerations that underpin the collection, analysis and use of personal data. Gavin Smith, lecturer of sociology and criminology at City, and leader of the MA, said: "It is imperative for those designing, managing and utilising surveillance to gain a better understanding of the social theory behind what they do and the various ethical issues and implications that emerge from ... living within complex surveillance societies."