General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: Drones: Do I have a line in the sand? [View all]davidthegnome
(2,983 posts)If such plans are ever implemented, it would go a long way towards resolving this debate. My main issue is that there isn't enough transparency, there isn't a group of qualified people ready and able to determine whether or not someone needs to be terminated. This power can't be given into the hands of those who would almost inevitably misuse it. I'm not convinced it should be given to anyone, regardless of the circumstances... but your idea for a FISA court, in particular, I think would have a lot of support.
All the same... it's a dangerous road we walk right now. The development of these technological killing machines are reminiscent of a a Star Wars movie, or an episode of Star Trek. The drones hovering over villages, for days or weeks, searching for targets... is indeed likely to inspire terror. There's the question of who will report on it when we go too far. There's the question of who has the power to do anything about it if we do. As the world's present military super power... we have an obligation not just to our own citizenry, but to the rest of the world. To be cautious in our conflicts, to consider the costs of military action, the costs of repairs, or compensation for those who lose innocent family or friends.
Things could be done very differently. I can't help but wonder how I would feel, here in my apartment, if I could hear a drone buzzing outside and suspected it might be intended for a neighbor. I could then be collateral damage, whether I'd done anything wrong or not. Whoops, sorry, but you know, he was close to the bad guy... so it serves the greater good?
What if one of those innocents we kill might have become a musician like Bach? A brilliant scientist with cures for diseases? An amazing diplomat who might have brought an end to various conflicts? There is so much to consider.
I can't help thinking... "These aren't the droids you're looking for." If you or I became the unintended target, or collateral damage of a drone strike... our families would no doubt not be in favor of drone technology, of using them as weapons. If one of our family members was collateral damage, chances are we would quickly lose any sort of support for the idea. Putting ourselves in the shoes of the innocent casualties... it helps put things in perspective. What we are killing. What we are enabling to exist. What we are supporting.
Okay, I've rambled enough for now. Interesting show... I'll definitely consider listening in from time to time.