What is "over-surveillance" in the context of privacy concerns?

Over-surveillance refers to the phenomenon where individuals are subjected to excessive monitoring, which can significantly encroach upon their personal autonomy. This excessive scrutiny can result from a variety of practices such as constant surveillance through cameras, tracking of digital activities, or an overabundance of data collection. The concern lies not just in the invasion of privacy but in the psychological and social implications it carries, including stress, anxiety, and a feeling of being controlled or coerced.

When individuals feel that they are always being watched, their behavior may change, leading to self-censorship and suppression of free expression. This environment can erode trust and foster a culture of fear, ultimately diminishing personal freedoms and autonomy. While other options touch on aspects of surveillance or monitoring, they do not capture the essence of how excessive surveillance can lead to a significant loss of autonomy for individuals, which is at the core of the concern about over-surveillance.