Quote:
Originally Posted by 80/20Thinking
Alexander. You should know that in life you have to make choices that others don't necessarily approve. I've pioneered almost every privacy issue of modern times, and your generous remarks reflect that. But do I cease exploring new avenues because some people disagree? Sometimes, but by and large I have to use all my powers of instinct and reflection to figure out where to place my scarce energies and resources. All I ask you to do is wait until the final PIA is published before you rush to judgment.
As for what people think about me or my reputation. Well, I remember from 15 years ago being the first serious campaigner against CCTV and much the same was said about me. Same when I started the fight against the ID card or - in the US - when we launched our action against US VISIT.
Hate me all you want, but also remember that it was only two weeks ago that my actions stopped fingerprinting at Heathrow. And tomorrow there'll be an equally important strike in another area. Just because my approach to issues does not always resonate with yours should not lead you to outright condemnation.
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I have the utmost respect for both Alexander and Simon.
Now is not the time to appear to be fractious in the eyes the enemy - yes, I know that there may appear to be a conflict of interest regarding 80/20 and PI with respect to Phorm, but I also acknowledge Simon's contribution to The Greater Good over the years, and I certainly appreciate Alexander's tireless efforts - without his focus on this issue, I doubt we would have been so coherent as a protest group.
Like it or not, pragmatism is far more productive than idealism, and it is results that we need here. At the risk of sounding like a political dilettante, engagement is better than indignant isolation, so even though we may detest what they stand for, we need to debate with Phorm and the ISPs and persuade everyone in this country why what they want to do is wrong.
I wait to be proved wrong...