International Terrorism

Terrorism is a global problem that affects nations rich and poor. Although it will never be eliminated, we can hope to make it a much more infrequent occurrence by reducing its main causes — inequities in social, cultural, and economic systems.

Although the goals of terrorism are primarily political, it is rooted in extremism: both religious and ideological. The most common types of terrorism such as assassinations, bombings and hijackings are all very public attacks with the aim of intimidating as many people as possible.

In response to increased incidents of terrorism, the United States Government has increased surveillance of citizens and foreigners in hopes of preventing future attacks. The Patriot Act of 2001 gave the government greater powers to undertake surveillance activities. The government has also increased security at airports and other places in an attempt to deter terrorism.

Some have protested the governments increased power to conduct surveillance. Should the government have the right to review your email, telephone calls, financial records, or medical records? Will this surveillance help prevent an attack? Is the additional money spent on security worth the results?