Not long ago Air Canada sent me an e-mail advising of increased security measures at all airports, longer delays in checking in and clearing security, and the banning from carrying on board, liquids or gels in containers of any size. As a frequent air traveler, I groaned at the thought of the added time and inconvenience.
By chance, not long after, I happened to be talking on the phone to a Canadian friend of Lebanese Arabic background. When I heard the quiet sadness and frustration in his voice, I suddenly realized how minor my concern with inconvenience was when compared to the effect these kinds of measures are having on people throughout many other segments of our world community.
I wonder how long such measures can be sustained and whether there might be other alternatives -- some less intrusive means to protect people traveling by air. For example, I have been a participant for some years now in a special program which allows me to return to Canada and quickly pass through Canadian entry procedures using iris scanning identification technology.
Protecting us from criminal activity and invasion of privacy are valid concerns. It is equally clear that we must move towards integrating technology into advancing our freedoms, not just putting in place more controls. Learning to balance freedoms and responsibilities, to recognize opportunities and risks, to make difficult choices wisely – these are some of the things I hope our students will discover during their time on this mountain campus. I am convinced that working together, we can find better solutions grounded in our shared commitment as humans, not only to live, but to live well.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment