Today’s social media world leaves little to imagination

Personal privacy is dead, and for that matter so is taste.

They have been wiped out by the disturbing explosion of technology and the insensitivity of the Internet, which appeals always to the lowest common denominator and facilitates personal intrusion.

Precious little remained of either before the ubiquitous development of telephones that also take pictures and permit the user to embarrass anyone with the clandestine push of a button — and almost instantly transmit their handiwork to millions. These actions, often with sinister motives, have become so common that no one, including the victims, should be at all surprised — least of all the British royal family.

This story appears in the print edition of Daily Journal. Subscribers can read the entire story online by signing in here or in our e-Edition by clicking here.