Persuasive Essay On Security For Security

As society progresses, and technology advances, we are constantly presented with new innovations in the field of security. Whether it be motion activated cameras, or face-tracking software, governments and corporations are beginning to monitor our every move on the Earth. Although this creates a more secure society, we are also giving up some of our social freedoms to these institutions. If people continue on this path, we will end up like the society of Oceania depicted in George Orwell’s Nineteen Eighty-Four. Like the quote from Benjamin Franklin, “Those who surrender freedom for security will not have, nor do they deserve, either one”, Orwell’s message in Nineteen Eighty-Four is that we must not give up our freedom in exchange for security,

Through the telescreens and the Ministry of Truth in Nineteen Eighty-Four, Orwell is warning our society to be cautious of how much technology we let into our lives, and keep in mind that we must never exchange security for freedom. This is extremely pertinent in Canadian society, especially with the recent discussion over the C-51 bill that will give the government and intelligence agencies more power to prevent further “terrorist” attacks, by allowing them to easily access previously extremely private information, which includes Health Canada records and Revenue Canada information. Although the conservative government insists that the bill will help enhance the security and well-being of Canadians, there is still a fair amount of public outcry over privacy issues and the restrictions on an individual’s freedom of expression. If Orwell was alive today, he would have a very negative opinion on the bill, as it could lead to a society like Oceania, where an individual’s freedom is almost non-existent. Although this may seem like an extreme situation, it is still a harsh reality that must be considered. In order to prevent this from happening, we must value our freedom, and keep it always in the forefront of our minds. Orwell’s message is a warning to us, that technology must be controlled and freedom maintained. Governments must be monitored, so that they are not presenting a twisted message about the real applications of an enhanced program. If our freedoms are compromised, then soon, our society will become like Oceania in Nineteen