I do not condone collection of any data just for the sake of collecting it, mind you. But I'm pragmatic. While I type these words, there can potentially be someone that will either receive a copy of my piece or that they can store it for possible future use. We leave digital fingerprints and footprints all over the world. How come does Google know that I'll be going to Bangkok in the end of February, and how do they know where I'll be staying? I know how they know. I think that here's the difference - not knowing about your data being transmitted/collected/used/sold etc versus knowing that this happens and exert some form of control over that.
I suppose this all boils down to the fact, still, that if you're up to no good, you'd have vested interest in keeping your data as private and guarded as possible. Even tyrannical societies need "something" to harass you for. Strolling on a temple park and making a call from there wishing your relative happy birthday doesn't really constitute substantial reason to take action against you. But if your country punishes for, let's say, homosexual activities, then you're bound to know that you're putting your kneck on the line.
Perhaps it is time for me to take off my pink glasses but... Well, you get the picture...
Sorry, English is not my first language and maybe my thought don't get across well, for that I apologise.
Cheers!