Introduction
In our world today, the lines between right and wrong can often seem blurred, particularly when it comes to the actions of those in power. Governments have a unique ability to redefine behaviors that would otherwise be considered criminal if committed by ordinary citizens. Let’s explore some striking examples of this double standard.
Patriot Act Surveillance vs. Felony Wiretapping
When Government Does It, it is called surveillance under the USA PATRIOT Act, particularly Title II (Enhanced Surveillance Procedures). When anybody else does it, it’s felony wiretapping, breaking laws like 18 U.S. Code § 2511 – Interception and disclosure of wire, oral, or electronic communications prohibited.
Enhanced Interrogation vs. Torture
When Government Does It, it is called enhanced interrogation, authorized under the Detainee Treatment Act of 2005. When anybody else does it, it’s torture, violating 18 U.S. Code § 2340A – Torture.
No Knock Raids vs. Breaking and Entering
When Government Does It, it is called no-knock raids, allowed under the USA PATRIOT Act, Section 213 – Authority for delaying notice of the execution of a warrant. When anybody else does it, it’s breaking and entering, violating laws like 18 U.S. Code § 2113 – Bank robbery and incidental crimes.
Taxation vs. Armed Robbery
When Government Does It, it is called taxation, governed by laws like the Internal Revenue Code (26 U.S. Code). When anybody else does it, it’s armed robbery, breaking laws such as 18 U.S. Code § 2113 – Bank robbery and incidental crimes.
Arrest vs. Kidnapping
When Government Does It, it is called arrest, under laws like 18 U.S. Code § 3052 – Powers of Federal Bureau of Investigation. When anybody else does it, it’s kidnapping, violating laws like 18 U.S. Code § 1201 – Kidnapping.
Indefinite Detention vs. Hostage Taking
When Government Does It, it is called indefinite detention, authorized under the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2012, Section 1021. When anybody else does it, it’s hostage-taking, violating 18 U.S. Code § 1203 – Hostage taking.
Eminent Domain vs. Property Theft
When Government Does It, it is called eminent domain, authorized by the Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution and laws like the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970. When anybody else does it, it’s property theft, breaking laws such as 18 U.S. Code § 641 – Public money, property or records.
Conscription vs. Forced Labor
When Government Does It, it is called conscription, authorized by the Military Selective Service Act (50 U.S. Code § 3801). When anybody else does it, it’s forced labor, violating laws like 18 U.S. Code § 1589 – Forced labor.
NSA Data Collection vs. Cyberstalking
When Government Does It, it is called data collection under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) of 1978, particularly Section 702. When anybody else does it, it’s cyberstalking, violating laws like 18 U.S. Code § 2261A – Stalking.
Conclusion
These examples illustrate how government actions, justified by specific laws and statutes, often mirror actions that would be criminal if performed by private individuals. This discrepancy highlights the complex relationship between legality, morality, and power. The U.S. government continues to perpetrate violations of fundamental freedoms and human rights abuses under the guise of legality. It is evident that it wields its sovereignty to hold individuals accountable while shielding itself and its agents from any accountability.
Until Next Time…
I Am,
Ewing Redmond Samuels III
