Describe the challenges of balancing civil rights and homeland security, given the expanded powers of federal law enforcement agencies. Public opinion polls suggest that most Americans believe that...

Describe the challenges of balancing civil rights and homeland security, given the expanded powers of federal law enforcement agencies.

Public opinion polls suggest that most Americans believe that some civil rights must be foregone in order to combat terrorism. Arguably, the expansion of search powers has diminished Fourth Amendment rights. Additionally, the surveillance of Muslims in the United States is a form of racial profiling. The focus on homeland security poses challenges for both the government and the criminal justice system to respond with effective actions that combat terrorism and still respect civil liberties.

1. What is the typical size of a terrorist cell?

2. What does the use of “rendition” involve?

3. How has the focus on homeland security fundamentally changed the criminal justice system?