Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
New York (Agenzia Fides) – The fear of more terrorist attacks keeps the security services in the United States in a state of continuous alert and is a source of inspiration for new solutions, many times based on state-of-the-art technology, to reduce any possible risks. However, not all the means of controlling people and lands seem to be inspired by reasonable criteria that respects individuals. Not long ago, a study was done on a model of electronic bracelet that would be worn by the traveler in the airport and during their flight, allowing security systems to “detect” any movement during these moments of their trip, thanks to a signal given off by the device.
The unique feature of the device in question is that if the passenger becomes a potential risk, it can set off an electric discharge that would stun him or leave him unconscious. Thus, from check-in to the baggage claim, the traveler would be subject to complete electronic vigilance. The system is similar to those used to control inmates or persons under house-arrest. And thus, the traveler who is perhaps on vacation in the United States or on a business trip, becomes like a prisoner under constant watch, not to mention the risk of mal-functioning that could be produced by an electronic discharge or alteration on the person wearing it, who might suffer heart complications. The Department of Homeland Security has already shown interest in using the device.
The object in question is not simply an electronic monitoring bracelet, but a high-tech instrument that is equipped with a RFID microchip and a GPS system that would allow the passenger’s every movement to be monitored. However, their most feared characteristic is its similarity to other stun-devices that have an immediate effect on their subjects that is considered harmful. An electric discharge would immobilize the individual for a few minutes, allowing for their “painless” arrest. The bracelet would also serve as a substitute to the normal boarding pass and would contain all the necessary information on the passenger for authorities to authorize their embarkation.
Of course, the proposal has sparked protest among many consumer organizations and civil rights groups, although its possible implementation may not take place any time soon. However, the project exists and shows how an upright concern for the security of citizens and travelers is being substituted by a phenomenon of generalized fear that would make everyone a potential danger, a potential enemy. From this cultural standpoint, we would letting in a fear of the masses that considers every traveler as a threat, something that would be the ultimate victory of those who planned the attacks of September 11, 2001 and of the other attacks in cities throughout the world.
There is no doubt that countries should defend themselves from terrorist attacks, however, it should be done with an awareness of the dignity of the person and his freedom, which are absolute values and a gift from God. The common good implies, above all: “respect for the person as such. In the name of the common good, public authorities are bound to respect the fundamental and inalienable rights of the human person” (The Catechism of the Catholic Church, #1907). (Mtp) (Agenzia Fides 25/7/2008)
