“We’re not going to use it to be invading somebody’s privacy. It’ll be used for situations we have with criminals,” Gage said.

Wow, if you believe that then I have a bridge in New York I’d like to sell you.  Just look at how they have been using counter-terrorism laws that were rushed onto the books as charges against completely unrelated offenses just a couple of years after 9/11.  What say you?

New Police Drone Near Houston Could Carry Weapons

Update 12/12/11:  Perfect example  [LA Times]

I thought the mention of ethnicity as a component in the algorithm was quite interesting as well, is it still racial profiling if it’s a machine instead of a live agent making that decision?  I think so, an obvious facet to challenge it on.  It’s no wonder they are so tight-lipped about it.

“That which grows in the shadows and withers in the light of day, does not belong on the vine.” – Unknown

Homeland Security moves forward with ‘pre-crime’ detection [CNET]

Now whether you agree with WikiLeaks’ actions or not, keep in mind that the press (loosely defined) performs an important duty shining light on things the establishment would rather not have seen.  In an age of corporate monopolization of the “news” sometimes it takes outsiders including bloggers and others to perform that service.

I’ll leave you with a thought:

“Four hostile newspapers are more to be feared than a thousand bayonets.” – Napoleon Bonaparte

Gates: Leaked documents don’t reveal key intel, but risks remain [CNN]

Biometrics: The Difference Engine… [economist.com]

So, I ran across a disturbing article a few days ago.  Many people worried about encroachment on our basic liberties, including myself, tend to throw around the term Orwellian a lot.  A new proposal in the UK though takes it to a new level.  They actually want to put 24/7 video surveillance inside the homes of the “worst” families.  All that’s missing is the monitor showing the face of Big Brother.  The UK has become the surveillance society but seriously, what the hell?

Sin Bins for Worst Families [Daily Express]

Now, the libertarian side of me believes in a free capitalist market.  But keep in mind that in most areas the major telcos/cable operators have a government-approved and somewhat protected monopoly.  That isn’t a free market and the lack of competition means they don’t truly operate at the levels that the “market would bear” without such constructs.

In areas where there is more competition we see things can be done better at some pretty amazing costs.  However, the major players are always ready to fiercely protect their restricted markets even lobbying government to actively prohibit municipal and other independent providers.  I call foul.  For a recent example, just see what Time Warner is doing in North Carolina.

ISP’s costs, revenues don’t support… [ars technica]
Time Warner lobbies government… [neowin]

What do you think?

New and worse… [Salon]