HSM 435 - ETHICAL IMPLICATIONS OF THE PATRIOT ACT

HSM 435 - ETHICAL IMPLICATIONS OF THE PATRIOT ACT Introduction The U.S, government monitors the public to curb all crimes most especially terrorism via legal means such as the approval of the Patriot Act (USA, 2003). After the 9/11 attacks in 2001, the U.S. Congress greatly empowered the country’s law enforcement and intelligence agencies by removing the restrictions on search, seizure, and surveillance of citizens’ personal information (USA, 2003). Before the Patriot Act was approved, several restrictions prevented the country’s law enforcement and intelligence agencies from conducting electronic surveillance of criminal suspects. After the Patriot Act was passed, courts can issue warrants for criminal and intelligence investigations. Three important questions will be answered by this research. First question is, “What government mechanisms are relevant to investigation of suspected terrorist groups or individuals?” Second question is, “How does Congress resolve the privacy concerns of those who oppose specific sections of the Patriot Act?” Third question is, “How do Patriot Act’s search, seizure, and surveillance impact civil rights? “This research will delve into critical issues concerning the ethical consequences of government war on terrorism and how Patriot Act’s provisions for search, seizure, and surveillance may impact privacy and civil liberties.