WHY? Philosophical Discussions About Everyday Life Privacy Isn’t What You Think It Is
Dec 14, 2025
Lowry Pressly, a writer and Stanford-affiliated teacher, dives into the nuances of privacy and human flourishing. He argues that despite our oversharing culture, offline privacy remains essential. Pressly distinguishes between secrecy and privacy, claiming the latter fosters trust while reducing suspicion. He highlights the historical impact of photography on privacy concerns and how documenting experiences can diminish spontaneity. Ultimately, he connects privacy to personal well-being, asserting that it allows for self-discovery and societal trust.
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Privacy As Oblivion
- Privacy isn't just secrecy or information control; it's a condition that helps form who we are.
- Lowry Pressly calls this non-informational privacy 'oblivion' and argues it is essential to personhood.
Everyday Private Quirks
- Jack Russell Weinstein recounts small personal secrets couples keep that make individuality intact.
- He uses examples like solo trips to a guitar shop or sneaking a 'cheeky burger' to show harmless private things.
Don't Let Online Norms Rewrite Privacy
- Don't let digital exhibitionism define privacy norms for all life domains.
- Preserve and defend offline privacy practices because most of life still occurs beyond social media.
