Attention metadata and subpoenas

I've been following developments in the attention space since I was introduced to the concept by Steve Gillmor about a year ago.  I agree with him that it's hugely important. This week's story about a Justice Department subpoena of search data from Google, MSN and Yahoo should remind us that, no matter how valuable these data are to companies and web users, and no matter how effective the efforts of the Attention Trust are concerning privacy and ownership, we all need to be aware that our privacy is ultimately in the hands of whatever the judges of our land support and with however willing the companies who house these data are to protect their trade secrets.  We know that courts and prosecuters blow in the political winds and that companies each follow their own policies. --Dennis