Jesse Ventura expressed his views on homeland security in quite an emotional way. Although his account contains some exaggerations, his conclusions are largely correct as people’s freedoms are under a concealed and soft attack, which is tolerated in the western society. Ventura (2018) addresses various aspects related to homeland security, including but not confined to terrorism, surveillance, violence, war, and government’s efficiency. In many ways, the author sheds light on the overreactions or inadequate responses of the US government, which led to such catastrophes as 9/11 or the war in Iraq. It cannot be denied that surveillance has reached an unprecedented level as streets and diverse public spaces are filled with cameras. Numerous restrictions have been imposed to ensure a higher degree of security in airports and other important infrastructural facilities. Kuper (2015) states that Western people are ready to give away a considerable part of their freedoms in exchange for increased security, which is a result of natural civilizational development.
The most recent illustration of the overwhelming role governments play in the life of the individual is the situation related to the COVID-19 pandemic. People’s basic rights were affected significantly as their movement was restricted. People had to remain at home or could not attend different kinds of places. People sacrificed their businesses as the losses due to the measures introduced by the government were unbearable for many. However, people are mainly in favor of such or similar restrictions as long as they believe in increased security. Hence, it is possible to note that Ventura (2018) is sometimes overreacting when discussing the balance between freedom and safety. However, the author has unveiled certain trends that are apparent.
References
Kuper, S. (2015). Why safety now trumps freedom. Financial Times. Web.
Ventura, J. (2018). Jesse Ventura on homeland security. On the Issues: Every Political Leader on Every Issue. Web.