Xprize Foundation founder Peter Diamandis has joined the ranks of tech giants advocating for global surveillance. In his latest post, he envisions a future where 'radical transparency' is the norm, with cameras and sensors everywhere, from homes to satellites.

His comments echo those of Oracle's Larry Ellison, who similarly believes citizens will behave better when constantly recorded. Diamandis goes further by urging parents to teach their children that privacy is obsolete in this new world, advocating for integrity as the best defence against surveillance.

The reality, however, paints a more complex picture. Many cities have already taken steps to limit surveillance, with Flock cameras covered in trash bags and Ring's 'Search Party' feature leading to a backlash and company cancellations. Meanwhile, Meta faces privacy concerns over its camera glasses.

Despite these challenges, Diamandis argues that transparency is inevitable and beneficial. However, the ethical implications of such surveillance are often overlooked. Who decides what constitutes good behaviour in this context? And will people be virtuous because it’s the right thing to do or simply because they fear being watched?