Individual Freedom vs Proving Guilt

[sclcookie]

Author beej76

As time goes on, it seems like there are a few fundamental things that divide anti's and pros - more than the obvious view of the DP.

We could certainly have a lower murder rate in the country. A DNA database of all citizens, cameras on every street corner, and police with no limits.

I get the picture that a lot of pros think we have too much personal freedom in this country - antis think we have the right amount (or not enough). Is that correct?

I think a litmus test is - a guy is guilty of a murder, but there was a big screw up in the investigation. Should the guy get to go free or not?


beej76, being that I don't post on the proboard, I hope you don't mind me adding your debate here.

And also, beej76, please e mail me at [e-mail]

Thanks,
Suzanne

[sclcookie]

Camaras, no....I like my privacy.

A DNA database? Why not. The government knows everything about each and everyone of us anyway. As long as it's very controlled and restricted in order not to be abused for the safety of my children, I may agree, however, I'd have to see the terms/conditions prior to agreeing.

And I don't think congress should be the ones to choose if we do so, being that I'm in disagreement with many things about the patriot act trying to be passed. I hope that congress does not allow searches of peoples homes without warrants as the patriot act is stating. I want my freedoms preserved and congress should not be able to choose certain things on behalf of "we the people".

A guy guilty of murder with a major screw up. I hope that screw up isn't so bad to where he can't get a new trial, i.e. double jeapordy.

I believe in justice, however, I can't see letting someone guilty of murder go free so easy. However, I couldn't ask someone innocent remain in prison on behalf of keeping this guilty person in prison.

If it was a planned proscecution screw up, like witnesses lying or tampering with evidence, then the proscecution for sure should have to have some kind of punishment, esp. if a known murderer goes free because of it.

[garotte]

I'd be glad with the DNA database, but completely opposed to the cameras... it's intimidacy violation. A fair penal system doesn't require violating individual rights. And in spite of saying that, I am Pro.
Garotte

[janet]

I feel complete opposition to both a DNA data base and videocameras. By permitting either, we would be on a 'slippery slope'. The alleged use of either to 'protect' citizens provides the basis for misuse by authorities. The violation of individual human rights is never justified in a free society. This would serve are merely a beginning of a dangerous path for individual freedom.

[mikebook]

I would not mind a DNA database for people that have been convicted of felony crimes. I am against cameras but there are enough out there to record anything. Just go to your local Wal-mart. If you are on their parking lot, you are on camera...