|
|
This is only a preview of the paper
Click here to register and get the full text.
Existing members click here to login
|
|
|
Patriot Act
On September 11, 2001 thousands of lives were lost as a result of the terrorist acts, yet millions were distressed by the infamous event. ... The Bush Administration exploited these intense emotions with the creation of the USA Patriot Act. The Patriot Act is a controversial law that expands the powers of government agencies and destroys our precious civil liberties. The Patriot Act was passed forty-five days after September 11, when there was immense fear of following terrorist attacks (ACLU). ... The Patriot Act is unconstitutional, because it violates the Bill of Rights, as well as current legislation, and must be removed.
Primarily, the Patriot Act is a violation of the First Amendment, which guarantees freedom of speech, press, religion and peaceful assembly (US Constitution). However, the Patriot Act does not encourage people to speak, practice certain religions or participate in certain activities liberally. The Act expands the surveillance powers of government agencies, such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and allows the FBI to monitor phone calls, electronic mail, websites and online purchases (ACLU). ... According to the American Civil Liberties Unions former president, Norman Dorsen, "The Patriot Act provides the government with the authority to prosecute individuals… especially those who sympathize with terrorist groups" (Masci). ...
The Patriot Act gives government agencies the opportunity to abuse their authority. ... According to the ACLU, the Patriot Act sets a new standard for domestic terrorists, which includes anyone who influences government policy by intimidation or coercion (ACLU). ...
The Patriot Act also infringes upon the protection guaranteed by the Fourth Amendment. ... However, the Patriot Act further relaxes the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, which allows law enforcement to conduct searches without a warrant on foreign agents (Dlouhy).
Approximate Word count = 1404
Approximate Pages = 5.6
(250 words per page double spaced)
|
|
|
|
|
|