- P. Williams writes in her essay, that the war on terror is a new type of a war. What’s new about it, how is it different from traditional wars?
Patricia Williams argues that the war on terror represents a departure from traditional wars because it involves combatting non-state actors, has a global reach, and lacks clearly defined enemies and objectives. Unlike conventional wars between nations, the war on terror presents unique challenges due to the elusive nature of terrorist threats and the need for a coordinated international response.
2. In what ways does the “Roving Wiretaps” of the Patriot Act seem to violate the Bill of Rights? Which amendment(s) does it seem to violate and why?
The “Roving Wiretaps” provision of the Patriot Act raises concerns about violating the Fourth Amendment’s protection against unreasonable searches and seizures. By allowing law enforcement to obtain warrants that apply to multiple devices or locations without specifying them, roving wiretaps could enable broad surveillance without sufficient judicial oversight, potentially infringing on individuals’ privacy rights guaranteed by the Fourth Amendment.
3. What about “Sneek and Peek” Warrants?
“Sneak and Peek” warrants, also authorized under the Patriot Act, raise similar Fourth Amendment concerns by allowing law enforcement to conduct searches without immediately notifying the property owner. This lack of transparency and notification undermines the Fourth Amendment’s protections against unreasonable searches and seizures, potentially infringing on individuals’ privacy rights and due process.
