Categories: uncategorized
Date: 11 May 2005 19:52:50
Didn't realise that the debate on ID cards and their effectiveness is one that is currently relevant on both sides of the Atlantic.
The article on Alternet is interesting in that it appears to be written by somebody far more up on this than I am. The key point made in the article, which I think makes particular sense is an ID card does not tell you somebodies intent.
Now I know it is a complicated issue, but it is a concerning one. It seems like it is not straightforwardly Civil Liberties v. Security, but also whether we wish to encourage a community (global and local) of increased suspicion or not.
Personally I would rather work with those around me to build a world where we look out for each other rather than trusting the state to protect us from each other. I believe the risk is reduced (not eliminated - let's be realistic - it can never be totally eliminated) if we become aware of the world around us and what is going on in it.
Also as the book I'm still ploughing through (Gods Politics by Jim Wallis) sums up you help build security by dealing with the problems which lead to the resentment and hopelessness which give terrorists support.
Know I probably sound naive, but I'd rather be an optimist than trapped in a society which is based on fear rather than hope.