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Information Article |
Justin Perry and Ronald Fife |
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Conclusion These matters indicate that government investigative programs such as Terrorism Information Awareness that employ data mining systems should be operated with a degree of visibly and under stringent control of some body such as the Congress. The feasibility that such systems could be reliable and secure has been called into question and shows that they should be managed responsibly and under the highest of standards. The impact on society from the use of such systems requires careful examination. Americans must face the challenge of balancing freedom and security. The threat of terrorism has placed the nation under an extraordinary level of danger. The government is held responsible for making the nation safe. It is appropriate that programs be developed that that take advantage of data mining technology in order to counter the threat. But Americans must decide how much freedom should be traded for security. The potential for misuse is valid. If the mission and practices of such programs are not open to public assessment, then commanding oversight should be held by Congress or the judicial system. The people responsible for such programs must be competent and trustworthy. The tools they are developing have the capability to change society in uncertain ways. Decision makers must formulate a policy that encourages these tools to be used to propel the nation in a healthy and secure direction. |