Homeland Security Versus Constitututional Rights

In the wake of the September 11 attacks, the government has taken extraordinary measures to protect our nation. The USA PATRIOT ACT became law, and President Bush issued an executive order authorizing the use of military tribunals in place of civilian courts to try suspected terrorists. While U.S. citizens all agree that new methods are necessary to protect the general population from terrorist acts, there is growing concern over their constitutionality. Their chief defender, U.S. Attorney General John Ashcroft says "Foreign terrorists who commit war crimes against the U.S...are not entitled to and do not deserve the protections of the American Constitution." But there is strong argument against today's antiterrorist measures from both the left and the right. The New York Times chastised Ashcroft, pointing out that "it is vital that the United States be seen as acting in accord with human rights principles." Ordinary citizens are split between feeling that the rights of citizens do not extend to everyone who happens to enter our country, and a fear that we are in the process of undermining the very values and principles on which our nation was established. In this carefully researched text, author Gottfried offers young adults access to both sides of the debate. Book jacket.