How can the government gather intelligence and limit resources to terrorists without curtailing the rights of citizens? This is one of the most perplexing questions in creating a sound counter-terrorism policy. The use of the Internet is one example of this. On one hand, the Internet’s massive benefits and capabilities along with freedom of speech must be maintained, while on the other hand, it is paramount to stop terrorists from using the Internet to scope out potential targets and plan attacks.
Abercrombie-Winstanley, Gina. “Terrorist Use of the Internet”. U.S. Department of State. 28 June 2010. 2 August 2010. http://www.state.gov/s/ct/rls/rm/2010/143876.htm
Has intelligence community gotten too large?
Since 9/11, the U.S. government has increased its top-secret intelligence gathering, so much that no one really knows how much it costs and how many people are involved. There are now more than 1, 200 government organizations and more than 1,900 private companies involved in the effort. Billions of dollars have been spent, but there is little coordination of the effort as a whole The Washington Post’s study reported that most intelligence work is a waste of money, redundant, and useless. Meanwhile, top officials and the Obama administration are still trying to fix the problem.
NBC, msnbc.com, and news services. “Has intelligence community gotten too large?”. msnbc.com. 19 July 2010. 4 August 2010. http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/38304293/ns/us_news-security