A study was done of cell-phone users’ movements without their consent–supposedly outside of the U.S. But don’t worry:

“In the wrong hands the data could be misused,” Hidalgo said. “But in scientists’ hands you’re trying to look at broad patterns….We’re not trying to do evil things. We’re trying to make the world a little better.”

History challenge: Find one instance of secretive data collection by a lawful entity (i.e. government or business, not admittedly criminal) which did not have as its purpose and goal making the world a little better.

Take your time.