With the coming anniversary of the September 11^th terror attacks on the United States, I find it particularly appropriate and compelling that this op-ed be devoted to a review of the modern era security policy of the United States. Since the attacks, a great and ever continuing debate has been held among the American people. This debate has centered itself around the question of comparing the peoples’ need for security with the peoples’ need for civil liberties. Some express concerns that we must maintain the outmost security stress the importance of protecting the physical United States. Others, who express concerns that liberty is being encroached upon, find truth in the statement, “Once we lose our freedoms the terrorists have already won.” Thus, a satisfactory answer to domestic security policy constitutes one that aims to insure that no American’s lives are put at risk, whilst still staying true to the core American values that have served as the cornerstone of democracy for hundreds of years.

First, I will focus upon the areas in which that we have made great progress in improving our security, and then I will delve into areas in which provide concern for those who believe their freedoms are being infringed upon. Since 2001, great strides have been made to improve intelligence agencies capabilities to successful engage in counterterrorism operations. For example, the creation of the Department of Homeland Security, the integration of  more than 20 separate government agencies and the appointment a director of national intelligence have all served to add cohesion to security. In this way, the process has made improvements in communication between agencies and reportedly thwarted numerous terrorist attacks. In addition, progress has been made in encouraging the American public to report any suspicious activity they may see {credit deserving to the “See Something, Say Something” campaign}. Although less well known, many improvements have been made in providing security to the American public school system. These improvements include lock down procedures and increased video surveillance, which have greatly enhanced the protection of the nation’s children.  However, there are also many areas that the American people have expressed concern.  Many Americans and activist groups have voiced concerns over violations of privacy from airport security scanners and certain aspects of the Patriot Act. Many have also stressed the potential loss of a balance of power approach to government as a result of relaxing of laws of reasonable suspicion before search or seizure. In all, both sides present valid claims that must be examined with the utmost scrutiny. I believe that a balancing act needs to be performed in order to maximize security and liberty throughout the free world. We must consider how effective policies that infringe on our personal liberties are, how important those liberties are to us and whether a better solution exists. In summation, the nation’s politicians approaching the situation from a place of reason and understanding, while using logic and statistics constitutes a paramount necessity of those governed by their leadership.

By: Alex Weiner