Freedom, Privacy, Safety

Over the years the US has been the target of various attacks. The 9/11 attack being the worst non state sponsored attack (I think), the Neo Cons pushed the Patriot Act through a humbled and spineless congress. Later we learned that the Bush Admin has set up data collection centers on major telecom trunk lines. The government is currently building the largest data collection and storage facility in the world in the SW desert. The facility will house the fastest super computers in the world. A week or so ago some young guy working for an NSA contractor leaks information about data collections programs and everyone flips out. First, I'm surprised that everyone is so surprised. Really, where has everyone been the last 15 yrs? Wasn't this all just assumed? Second, and the point of this, where do you personally draw the line on privacy vs. whatever level of security the government can provide. Lets put this in real terms. ie "the government not looking at anyone's personal information is worth two Boston style bombings a year" or "we should be willing to accept a 9/11 once a year if it means preserving all of our rights under the constitution" If the currency is lives lost, what are you willing to pay?

Put the internet to work for you. via Personal Recipe 2629979