my thoughts on “Security Theater”

So, Bruce Schneier, coiner of that term, and publicity whore at times (ask me about my experience at a Gartner event he speaking at), has caught fire among the vernacular of travelers who are now subjected to the absolute goofiness of the TSA and other security procedures supposedly put into place after 9/11.

I’ve always been a believer that, well before this increased concern, security checkpoints and other measures were effectively useless, either through just the fact the routine became routine and ineffectual, or the fact that, psychologically, they actually didn’t change anything about the game. Evidently, with the TSA the efforts have become even more asinine and ridiculous. I’ve just got done reading today (8/20/08) about an active duty soldier being held up for checking his firearm for a flight.

While, folks who know me, know I’m far from being the firearm supporting, let a lone packing, person, but I’ve had personal experience with the actual process, but at Chicago Midway with a coworker. Myself, a geek, traveling with too much in the way of electronics, had a harder time passing through security (and eventually lost a digital camera in the process) than my coworker who checked his side arm (to be honest, it was stowed in an ankle holster when in active duty).

My last few times where I’ve had to travel distances, I’ve opted for the car and, especially if I have the time, the train. For the latter (as well as the car), no security checkpoint, no baggage restrictions, and all the leg room I can handle… plus the seats are larger, people friendlier, and stress level much less. So, I’ve come to this realization… it’s a scam!

Yes folks, the TSA is a scam for the oil companies! People become fed up with airlines, which never made money in the first place, and switch back to cars (and a few smart folks, trains, but because of the capacity and infrastructure, will never be a real alternative to most). In turn, that requires more consumption of oil, which equals more profits to those folks who benefit from the chain (all those, except, the station owner). So see, just another link to the Bush and Cheney Administration and their ties to Big Oil. I wonder if anybody else made that connection, but, considering that, it’s common sense. BTW, “fuck you” Bush and Cheney… I’m selling my car and getting a new fuel-efficient motorcycle… up yours and your oil grubbing profit mongers, I hope y’all rot in the hell that you’ll end up in you religious zealot fucks.

Okay, breathe… anyhow, I can’t say much… I’m not to happy with my choice for November anyhow. Obama pissed me off with his FISA vote, and I cant get over McCain’s chipmunk cheeks and the fact I’d be happier if I was voting for Feingold over these two. Oh well… well, if “O” picks Richardson, I may reconsider.

Tags: 9/11, bagggage, bullshit, Bush, Cheney, Chicago, firearm, oil, scam, Security, security theater, stress, TSA