The controversy over TSA pat down procedures for those that refuse the backscatter x-ray machine is no longer front page news but the policies are still going strong at airports across the country.
It's worth keeping in mind that there is little evidence that the backscatter and the pat down make flying safer. Indeed, it's doubtful that it would have prevented the hijackers on 9/11.
The scanners raise legitimate fears about radiation exposure. The introduction of the scanners may have more to do with the lobbying and connections of those that stand to profit from their use than with legitimate terrorism prevention. The pat downs (along with indefinite detention, warrantless surveillance, and torture) are yet another example of the perverse measures instituted "to make us safer" but ultimately serve to consolidate state control.
The ACLU has received over 1000 complaints from travelers in the United States about the TSA, a harrowing selection can be read here.
