The TSA Has Gone Too Far, But ...

One idea that I have periodically addressed is the idea of templates—often called world views. Such templates are needed for normal everyday life, but we all need to understand that they have limitations. Often the various templates we use are in tension with each other. A good example where my templates are in conflict is the TSA. 

I really have no desire for a guard to examine my genital area. Nor do I want to be irradiated by a machine that may cause health issues later. If this type of machines does not have issues, then why do the dental technicians leave the room when they x-ray your teeth? I have little concern personally for the machine that examines me as I seldom travel. I do wonder about the safety of frequent flyers and for the TSA guards themselves. 

My three templates that come into focus on this issue are the personal freedom issue, the safety issue, and there is even a Biblical issue.

I am not comfortable with the lack of respect shown to personal liberties and the constitutional right to avoid unnecessary searches. This is a widespread problem in our society. An example is even when the police have a proper warrant for searching, they do not announce themselves—shouting “THIS IS THE POLICE.” Instead they whisper—”This is the police.”  It seems that we frequently hear of the police trashing someone’s house, without any respect for the individual or their possessions. 

However, I think most of us will acknowledge that the police function needs to be utilized. Even most anarchists want a police function. They just prefer it to be private. 

I became acquainted with a Moslem professor because we frequented the same coffee shop/bookstore, and we had each married Russian women. His take on being searched and profiled was interesting. “I want to be searched and profiled because I am a Moslem.” He explained that someone with his background was more likely to be a problem on a flight. He wanted to be safe too! 

Finally, we need to think about what Jesus said on the issue in Matthew 5. 

³⁸ ”You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ ³⁹ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. ⁴⁰ And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. ⁴¹ If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. ⁴² Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.

The Roman government could require that one bear a burden for about one mile. (The Roman mile being slightly less than our modern mile.) Jesus is suggesting that if you are in such a situation to go two miles. This is where the phrase “going the extra mile” has its origin. So if the TSA asks you to remove your shirt, remove your pants also-er, well maybe not. But certainly we can react with politeness to what they are doing. So even if we think the average TSA person is evil; even if we think our rights are being abused—we can go the extra mile.