This week I want you to write about something other than the assigned book.
In the lecture class we have been discussing the recent revelation of a previously somewhat revealed NSA program where telephone and online search records of Americans have been collected in order to facilitate future searches of terrorist suspects. I've had posts of related stories here on the blog for online students to follow.
We have also been looking at the overall structure of the U.S. Constitution, with a special emphasis on the basic principles within it - especially the separated powers and checks and balances. Remember that powers are separated in order to prevent tyranny - the ability of one person or group to legislate, execute and adjudicate the law.
One of the concerns that has emerged is that secrecy surrounding this NSA project - and secrecy in general - might compromise the checks and balances.
In at least 150 words I want you to weigh in this issue. Do secret surveillance programs negate the checks and balances? Does this present a threat to the republic? Why or why not. Long comprehensive, well reasoned arguments get A's.
Send in through BlackBoard - make it interesting.
