Abstract

In this paper, I shall discuss what I call the Argument From Exploitation. This argument has as its conclusion that for-profit markets in personal information are morally impermissible. The main premise given for this conclusion is that markets in personal information involve exploitation of vulnerable people, and appertaining inequalities. I try to show that at least one of the premises of this argument is false. I then entertain an objection to my argument that holds that adding the option for vulnerable people to sell their personal information is in itself harmful, even if these people would be better off if they took the option. I try to demonstrate why that objection is not successful. In the end, I conclude that the Argument From Exploitation is not sound, and that until proven otherwise, we should thus think that markets in personal information are morally permissible.