That's kind of tricky, because wouldn't that expose business data to competitors?
I'm not sure we're entitled to that right as a user. The NYT is providing us content in exchange for analytics on how we use their site or respond to their advertising. As a user we're free to not buy what they're selling.
This is a long way from Nielsen ratings were they called viewers. If my personal activity is being tracked, by definition that is personal and I should have a right to know what personal information is being tracked. In exchange for that information I can make a decision about my viewing habits.
You're right, this is a long way from Nielsen ratings. Online media is definitely not cable.
What the NYT is offering is no different than what Facebook or Google is offering. You're paying with your personal information to consume their service. If you don't like the terms, then you're free to simply not use their service. I believe that's fair.
I'm not sure we're entitled to that right as a user. The NYT is providing us content in exchange for analytics on how we use their site or respond to their advertising. As a user we're free to not buy what they're selling.