The trade-off between liberty and security is an old one. During the Civil War, Lincoln suspended habeas corpus, insisting that it made no sense for him to protect this one constitutional right and allow the very Union established by the Constitution to be obliterated. During World War II, thousands of Japanese-Americans were interned in camps in an effort to counter espionage and sabotage.  And we complain about taking off our shoes at the airport?

This is war, folks.  War calls for sacrifice.   It demeans our troops in harm's way to ask them to risk that harm to protect a nation of whiners, complainers, and fanatical ACLU types who would willingly watch our nation go down in flames rather than risk the disapproval of those in their cocktail party set. 

On the other hand, if not for the constant vigilance of civil libertarian zealots, what rights would we currently have?  At all times, leaders can claim national emergency (and if one doesn't really exist, one can be made to exist.)  Our liberties are not a convenience to be given up in wartime like nylons.  They are our rights due us as part of our dignity as human beings.  They are precisely why we fight.   

The chairman, taking a break from calling for the internment of neocons, has called for a debate to settle the question:

Resolved: Search Me, Please .

The Debate will be held on Wednesday, October 19, 2005 at the Pool & Yacht Club, 1600 Lilydale Rd, Lilydale (Just south of St. Paul). The Chancellor will preside over drinks beginning at seven o'clock p.m. The debate will begin at half past seven. While there is no dress code for attendance, gentlemen who wish to speak must wear a tie; ladies should adhere to a similar sartorial standard. For those gentlemen who arrive tieless yet wish to speak, fret not: the Purveyor of Ties will keep on hand at least one of his quite remarkable ties for just such an eventuality. Questions about debate caucus procedures or about the John Adams Society itself may be directed to the Chairman at ()651) 494-6698 or the Secretary at (612) 204-5615.

If you would like to receive email announcements of upcoming debates, email the John Adams Society with your name, email address, and a simple statement requesting future "Whip Sheets" via email.