Alan Westin (privacy scholar)

Alan Westin was a pioneering privacy scholar who studied how personal information is collected, used, and protected in society. He emphasized that privacy is a fundamental aspect of individual freedom and autonomy. Westin introduced concepts like "information privacy," highlighting individuals' right to control their personal data, and "privacy as a positive good," advocating for informed consent and responsible data practices. His work helped shape policies and discussions around data security, surveillance, and user rights, fostering a better understanding of the balance between technological progress and personal privacy.