Freedom for security

In another philosophical blow to the concept of inalienable rights and inherent freedom, a new poll suggests close to half of all Americans think the civil rights of Muslim-Americans ought to be restricted. The question was cast against the background of terrorism and security issues, so apparently the idea is that Muslims who are American citizens (a distinction that is part of the question) are not really citizens at all, and do not qualify for certain civil liberties guaranteed to all other citizens.

While 44% is not a majority, it is a very high number. This sort of mindless, generalized fear goes hand in hand with ignorance and religious bias.

The survey conducted by Cornell University also found that Republicans and people who described themselves as highly religious were more apt to support curtailing Muslims' civil liberties than Democrats or people who are less religious.

So much for tolerance.

Researchers also found that respondents who paid more attention to television news were more likely to fear terrorist attacks and support limiting the rights of Muslim Americans.

I wonder what the breakout for categories of TV news might show. A lot of Fox and CableSpews?

Full article is here.