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Government Data of the People, by the People, for the People: Navigating Citizen Privacy Concerns

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  • Claire McKay Bowen

Abstract

The data privacy community generally agrees that government data should be more widely accessible, especially being of the people (data collected about them), by the people (collected and supported using taxpayer dollars), and for the people (providing public and social good). But what to protect in that data and how to do so are highly and intensely debated. This paper discusses the fundamental tradeoff between data privacy and data usefulness—and how determining an appropriate balance can be difficult. The paper also provides thoughts on what must be addressed to help shape the future of data privacy, make meaningful contributions to its policy debates, and ensure the responsible representation of people in data.

Suggested Citation

  • Claire McKay Bowen, 2024. "Government Data of the People, by the People, for the People: Navigating Citizen Privacy Concerns," Journal of Economic Perspectives, American Economic Association, vol. 38(2), pages 181-200, Spring.
    • Handle: RePEc:aea:jecper:v:38:y:2024:i:2:p:181-200
    DOI: 10.1257/jep.38.2.181
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • C80 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Data Collection and Data Estimation Methodology; Computer Programs - - - General
    • D83 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Search; Learning; Information and Knowledge; Communication; Belief; Unawareness

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