At a time when the government is facing scrutiny over its illegal surveillance programs, a new report suggests the nation might have reason to be concerned about the future. The majority of Americans today do not approve of federal agencies violating our constitutional rights. But the younger generations appear to be far more amenable to the idea.
This is an indicator of how important it is to educate the public on the dangers of giving the state the power to monitor everyday Americans with no valid reason.
The Cato Institute recently released the findings of a study that analyzed, in part, attitudes toward the extent to which the government should be empowered to spy on American citizens:
In a newly released Cato Institute 2023 Central Bank Digital Currency National Survey of 2,000 Americans, we asked respondents whether they “favor or oppose the government installing surveillance cameras in every household to reduce domestic violence, abuse, and other illegal activity.” Not surprisingly, few Americans—only 14 percent—support this idea. Three‐fourths (75 percent) would oppose government surveillance cameras in homes, including 68 percent who “strongly oppose,” while 10% don’t have an opinion either way.
These particular results don’t seem too troubling given that only a small percentage would be just fine with Big Brother spying on them in their homes. Still, when looking at attitudes among younger Americans, it is clear that this could be an issue in the future:
However, Americans under the age of 30 stand out when it comes to 1984‐style in‐home government surveillance cameras. 3 in 10 (29 percent) Americans under 30 favor “the government installing surveillance cameras in every household” in order to “reduce domestic violence, abuse, and other illegal activity.” Support declines with age, dropping to 20 percent among 30–44 year olds and dropping considerably to 6 percent among those over the age of 45.
The results of the Cato Institute’s 2023 Central Bank Digital Currency National Survey should serve as an alarm regarding Americans’ perceptions of government surveillance. The study, which focused on opinions about installing surveillance cameras in every household, highlights a disturbing trend, particularly among younger individuals.
Privacy is a fundamental pillar of a free society. It provides individuals with autonomy, fosters creativity, and allows for the free exchange of ideas. Moreover, it prevents the state from abusing civilians. The acceptance of government surveillance cameras in every household represents a dangerous erosion of this fundamental right. It reveals that younger generations do not have an adequate understanding of America’s founding principles.
Even more frightening is that it shows a chilling trust in the state and belies a serious lack of understanding of the dangers of an ever-intrusive government. This could easily open the door to a society where every action and conversation is subject to scrutiny, undermining personal freedom and inhibiting individual expression.
The consequences of embracing such an intrusive level of surveillance are far-reaching and extend beyond the issue at hand. History has shown repeatedly that once governments gain access to tools of surveillance and control, they become emboldened to expand their reach. What starts as a seemingly well-intentioned measure to combat crime can quickly morph into a pervasive system of control and oppression.
Moreover, such intrusive surveillance systems will inevitably be abused or manipulated, leading to violations of civil liberties and personal freedoms. The mere presence of constant surveillance can stifle dissent and curtail individuals’ willingness to exercise their rights, fostering an environment of self-censorship and fear.
The results of this study, if accurate, are a welcome sign for authoritarians on the left and right. As the study demonstrates, complacency and apathy towards government surveillance can have profound consequences for society as a whole. It is crucial for individuals to remain vigilant and actively question the balance between security and privacy. The value of personal liberties should never be compromised or casually discarded, especially for an illusory feeling of safety.
The Cato Institute’s study serves as a stark reminder of the dangers inherent in sacrificing privacy for security. The fact that a significant portion of young Americans is willing to accept in-home surveillance cameras is profoundly unsettling and raises concerns about the future of individual freedoms. As a society, it is crucial that we engage in informed discussions, constantly challenge the erosion of privacy, and educate the public about the importance of safeguarding the principles that underpin American society.