By Richard Armen
The recent furor over the introduction of body-scanning devices used to scan passengers as they pass through airport security serves to remind us all that the post-911 world is much different than earlier decades in terms of public security. ‘Pre-911’ is a term used to mark a simpler time, in the United States as well as in the rest of the world. The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 remain a constant reminder of how lax security and an unaware state mind can lead to catastrophe. When it comes to public safety procedures now in use, times were much different just a decade ago.
The airlines, in particular, were the hardest hit in terms of security implications. The use of metal detectors has been steadily rising over the past few decades; this latest body scanner device is simply the most recent in a long line of increasingly sophisticated ways to detect weapons and other contraband concealed on the bodies of passengers. It may seem completely impossible to today’s travelers, but decades ago, it was considered completely acceptable to light up a cigarette during the flight, though today doing the same touches off a panic over potential terrorist behavior on the flight.
With the recent discovery of bombs in shoes, underwear, and other seemingly strange places, it has become impossible to know who has the capability of staging an attack without such detection systems in place. As a result, each one of us is looked upon as a possible terrorist as we walk through the airport security gates. We aren’t used to that type of thinking, but in the post-911 world, it is a reality. We all have to suffer longer lines, invasive searches, and constant paranoia in order to avoid letting an explosive device onto the plane. What it comes down to is that there is simply no other way to safeguard the passengers and crew on the plane.
Public security has not just changed in the airports. You’ll find metal detectors and related security devices at any large public gathering, such as sporting events. Now, we find ourselves passing through some sort of security screening nearly everyday. Even high schools are installing such devices to keep guns off campus. Been to a concert lately? You may find yourself subjected to a full pat-down or a search with portable metal detectors, with your bags and belongings checked as well. While these changes were beginning to take place during the 1990s, the terrorist attacks on September 11th certainly spurred many venues into action regarding security upgrades.
It seems that no matter where we go, we will find heightened security measures. Clearly, our society won’t be returning to pre-911 security levels ever again. Because it is impossible to stop people from trying to get dangerous devices into crowded areas, all we can do is institute measures to stop them at the gates. The times have changed, and it is now considered necessary to subject passengers, guests, and fans to these measures in order to minimize the threat of attack. The unfortunate reality is that our world is changing, and public safety requires increased security measures.
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