Monday, September 21, 2009

The Culture of Fear

I'm humorized by Team Red's new mantra relating to liberty, patriotism, and anti-government. There's so much "chest beating" going on these days regarding to our loss of liberty. What really confuses me is why Team Red didn't get upset when Bush & Company pushed the Patriot Act through without opposition. The reason? The sheeple were scared into a tight herd by the wolf (9/11 terrorism).

An interesting perspective on the Patriot Act is provided below. Why Team Red wasn't throwing tea parties and marches on Washington really confuses me.

"Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism -- a.k.a. the USA PATRIOT Act -- is a huge program with a catchy little title that does more to increase the size of government than it does to fight terrorism. It was easy to pass -- everyone was emotional over the unfortunate September 11 terrorist attacks. It was developed behind closed doors between Congress and the Bush Administration, and there was initially no debate or amendments allowed. It just passed -- unfortunately, using terrorism as an excuse to attack our individuality and personal freedoms. It's anything but patriotic."

"But, why be so concerned with two-year old legislation or any additions to it in the first place? Well, for one we've had more time to think it through and see first hand how this legislation has impacted the "war against terrorism." Are U.S. citizens safer and more secure because of the PATRIOT Act? Or are we at greater risk for being falsely accused and imprisoned for "terrorist" activities? How does this kind of legislation contribute to a culture of fear? Is the PATRIOT Act an invasion of privacy or a necessary law enforcement tool? Who does this legislation really benefit?"

Source and entire article:
http://searchsecurity.techtarget.com/news/article/0,289142,sid14_gci914763,00.html

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