In June 2015, at the Electronic Privacy Information Center (EPIC) Champions of Freedom event, Apple’s CEO Tim Cook discussed the tensions between privacy and security, but restated his belief that people have a basic right to privacy. Less than a year later, there was a devastating terror attack in San Bernardino, California, and Apple and the FBI found themselves in the center of a debate between privacy and security. This is not the only case that has involved national security on one side and civil liberties on the other. The issues surrounding Snowden also brought up privacy right issues and national security concerns. Was the NSA improperly spying on US citizens? Should you trade security for fundamental freedoms? Is Snowden a hero because he informed the citizens of the United States, or is he a traitor? Though both cases represent legitimate priorities for Americans, the question remains: Can the United States provide both security and privacy to Americans when it seems that these fundamental concerns clash? Are legal and ethical issues at odds?
In this activity, you will examine this dilemma and have a chance to discuss your perspective.
For this discussion activity, first select one of the following examples to read about and discuss:
Snowden
OR
Apple/FBI
References:
Apple’s Tim Cook Delivers Blistering Speech On Encryption, Privacy
https://www.cnn.com/2013/06/10/politics/edward-snowden-profile/
https://www.cnbc.com/2016/03/29/apple-vs-fbi-all-you-need-to-know.html
Examine the following before you start your discussion:
Americans feel the tensions between privacy and security concerns
Now answer the following questions:
What example did you select?
Describe some of the ethical and legal issues related to your topic.
What are some of the privacy concerns? What are the issues related to national security?
What are some of the broader issues? What is your perspective? Explain.
