Found this on Boing Boing: Chertoff: The internet is turning people into terrorists

I think it takes quite a leap to go from the dissemination of information to creation of terrorists. The Internet is a soap box from which people can voice their disparate views, thoughts and ideas. In certain ways, it is not much different from speaker’s platforms in parks that have made an appearance since before the American War of Indepence and also in the 1960′s. In certain ways, the Internet also bears resemblance to the free press that we are guaranteed by the Constitution, in the 1st Amendment.

I feel that the statement by Chertoff may show the direction that the current administration could be planning. We, as the American society, have already proven that we are willing to give up our rights and liberties for the appearance of safety. I point to the USA Patriot Act.

Benjamin Franklin said it best – “They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety.” Historical Review of Pennsylvania (1759)