I'm a user and I prefer to see targeted ads instead of generic crap. I prefer to get recommendations that are based on my known preferences. I like the idea that my data helps makes services better. I also like to have the option to use some services for "free" instead of paying.
I would like to have total transparency about which personal information was used to target me so that I can opt-out of sharing a certain piece of information if I'm so inclined.
I would like to have the ability to revoke access to my personal information from companies that I don't personally like.
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I understand the anti-ad/privacy fanatics and share most of the values but the extreme end sins in too much short-sightedness and hypocrisy. Understand that if your will becomes reality day 1 will be a very different day from what you had in mind. In the meantime put your money where your mouth is and stop using any services that uses users' private data for improving the product: search, maps, youtube, twitter... you're pretty much left with Wikipedia. Oh, and thank you for the cookie bars, great addition.
You make some valid points; I would disagree with the term "privacy fanatics", though.
Privacy is a human right, and you seem to be putting the burden on the user to protect it, rather than on the companies to stop abusing it.
We live in "1st world countries" - I assume you do too - and we have the luxury of having regulations that allow us to opt out of some things, but others might not be so fortunate; I believe we should lead the way in preventing people from being products. It might be a pipe dream, but things are obviously not working at the moment
Seeing generic crap helps me to ignore the consumerist propaganda that's being hurled at me from all angles. It's easier to recognize it for what it is: an attempt to exert undue influence over my decision making.
I would like to have total transparency about which personal information was used to target me so that I can opt-out of sharing a certain piece of information if I'm so inclined.
I would like to have the ability to revoke access to my personal information from companies that I don't personally like.
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I understand the anti-ad/privacy fanatics and share most of the values but the extreme end sins in too much short-sightedness and hypocrisy. Understand that if your will becomes reality day 1 will be a very different day from what you had in mind. In the meantime put your money where your mouth is and stop using any services that uses users' private data for improving the product: search, maps, youtube, twitter... you're pretty much left with Wikipedia. Oh, and thank you for the cookie bars, great addition.