- 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?
Traditionally, wars were fought against specific groups of people associated with a religious belief or a particular region of the world, which could usually be easily identified. However, after the declaration of a war on terrorism the situation changed. Anyone from any walk of life could potentially be seen as the enemy. This has created a “mind war,” where our perceptions and interpretations differ significantly. What one person perceives as a threat may not be viewed the same way by someone else. I think the war on terrorism has transformed into a conflict that feels like it targets us all, rather than a war against a particular regime or identifiable group.
- 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?
Surveillance professionals assert that criminal wiretaps should only target individuals who are confirmed to be using a specific device. However, civil rights organizations argue that the Patriot Act’s language could lead to privacy violations for those with casual connections to suspects. They are urging Congress to require authorities to specify the device or person being investigated to prevent unnecessary surveillance of innocent people. This is important becuase it highlights a conflict between national security and individual privacy rights. The issue can be seen as a violation of protections guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, specifically the Fourth Amendment, which safeguards individuals against unreasonable searches and seizures.
- What about “Sneek and Peek” Warrants?
The First Amendment protects the rights to free speech, press, and assembly. If “sneak and peek” searches are used to collect information on individuals involved in political activism, it can be argued that these searches violate their freedom of speech or right to peacefully assemble. This is concerning if the searches are targeting individuals suspected of holding unpopular political beliefs or views.
