Evaluating Surveillance, Detection, and Inspection Technology
History shows us that the average length of an empire through time is 250–300 years. In the year 2010, the United States became 234 years old (counting from July 4, 1776). The United States has built walls of concrete and steel along the U.S.–Mexico border and mined the area of the wall with the latest technology of seismic alarms and surveillance equipment, including cameras, satellites, and unmanned aircraft. This is all in an attempt to stop the illegal flow of traffic into and out of the United States.
How much privacy and freedom are people willing to sacrifice in the name of security? Since the 1970s, technology has grown rapidly, moving the world into a technical dependence, creating a society dependent on technology for everything from cooking to national security. Along with that dependence, however, is an equally sizable payout—the loss of individual privacy and freedom.
Do the ethical and constitutional issues of the Bill of Rights take a secondary position to the overall picture of homeland security? It appears to some that many rights guaranteed in the Bill of Rights are being endangered in the rush to create a totally secure homeland.
The primary motivation for the creation of the concept of homeland security was to detect, deter, and deny terrorist activity against the United States. With the rapidly growing dependence on technology and implementation of restrictions on the individual, can it be argued that the terrorists have won?
Primary Task Response: Within the Discussion Board area, write 400–600 words that respond to the following questions with your thoughts, ideas, and comments. This will be the foundation for future discussions by your classmates. Be substantive and clear, and use examples to reinforce your ideas:
How much further can surveillance, detection, and inspection technologies advance?
What new efficient and practical additions, if any, can be implemented?
Has the United States become a modern-day Roman Empire, falling into decline?
Consider the economy, use of military technology on U.S. soil, surveillance of citizens, civil and human rights, and technological and military advancement of other nations.
Is technological dependence a serious issue for the world? Why or why not?
How much national security is sufficient?
Will people ever feel secure enough to stop implementation of advanced surveillance, detection, and inspection technologies on U.S. soil? Why or why not?
Is there an ideal balance of security and freedom? Explain.
What do you think is next with regard to further technological advancements and implementation as they relate to constitutional rights and regulatory legislation? Explain and support.