“War Rooms” of the Street
An interesting academic paper is “War Rooms” of the Street by Torin Monahan. The abstract:
This article investigates the surveillance dimensions of “intelligent transportation systems” in the United States, with a particular focus on the mediation of data by engineers in transportation control centers. These communication systems lend themselves to surveillance by means of “function creep” beyond their primary intended purposes and through the everyday collection and manipulation of data to manage mobilities. In the U.S., dominant system protocols privilege vehicular throughput and discipline those who deviate from that norm.
I found some interesting insights. First, these intelligent transportation agencies are very secretive. It is difficult to gain access to them (as an academic) and there is little written about their capabilities. Second, Torin discusses the significant surveillance capabilities these agencies wield. Obviously, it is intended that the surveillance be used for transportation and emergency needs. But Torin is able to tease out some examples of function creep, where these surveillance powers are used for other purposes, such as police work. A good read for people interested in transportation systems and the ever growing creep of surveillance.
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