 |
Orrin Hatch: Terrorist?
Have I got your attention?
Good, because Senator Orrin Hatch (R - Utah) certainly has mine. Tuesday, the good Senator suggested that on-line copyright violators should have their computers remotely destroyed.
Huh?
Remotely "destroying" a computer would require at least a bit of hacking. Currently, breaking into and damaging any internet-connected computer is defined as an act of terrorism under the USA PATRIOT ACT (section 808). What Senator Hatch has suggested is clearly covered by that definition. Ironically, Hatch has proposed that emergency portions of the USA PATRIOT ACT (which are set to expire in 2005) be made permanent. Either view is alarming; the combination of the two definitely raises some concerns.
First, the contradiction between his support for the USA PATRIOT ACT and his proposed solution to internet piracy, suggests that Senator Hatch does not have a clear understanding of the USA PATRIOT ACT and its ramifications. He voted for this act, he supports its use, and he has proposed that its life should be extended. One has to wonder if he has read the entire 1016 sections of the 131-page act. Does the senior senator from Utah have a clear understanding of the legislation he supports, or was his decisions based upon loyalties to party and lobbyist's dollars?
Moreover, if Senator Hatch does understand the content and ramifications of the USA PATRIOT ACT then there is cause for even greater concern. It would point to an acute lack of concern for due process and civil liberties. Senator Hatch's proposal is tantamount to judgment and sentencing without trial. When I was a child, my father (an ex-Marine and FBI agent) explained to me why the American system of justice was superior to all others. Paraphrased, he said, "In America, we try to make absolutely sure that no innocent person is ever convicted of a crime. It would be better to let a guilty man go free than to punish an innocent." His words have stuck with me and given me hope and faith in our judicial system. "Innocent until proven guilty" is the core of our legal system. What Senator Hatch is suggesting is nothing less than modern vigilante justice.
In a final twist of irony, it has been discovered that Senator Hatch's website is illegally using unlicensed commercial software. The software is a JavaScript menu system developed by Milonic Solutions. The software is free for personal and non-profit use, but only if you register and obtain the proper license, which the senator's website did not. It brings to mind something I heard once about stones and glass houses.
So, do I really think that Hatch is a terrorist? No, of course not. Is he confused and ignorant? I hope so, because if he is not, then he is definitely no friend to American people.
|
| - Lars |
|
|
|
|
