Wherein Two Pet Peeves Converge

Frequent readers know of my interest in the Tazer and its misuses. Frequent readers also know that I believe this administration and their Fear Through Flight campaign is totally out of control. (You know it even when you disagree.) You'll be glad to know that these two have converged, providing the opportunity for a megarant that I really don't have time for today.


Let me show you, dear readers, an abstract from simple patent application.

Air travel security method, system and device

Abstract

A method of providing air travel security for passengers traveling via an aircraft comprises situating a remotely activatable electric shock device on each of the passengers in position to deliver a disabling electrical shock when activated; and arming the electric shock devices for subsequent selective activation by a selectively operable remote control disposed within the aircraft. The remotely activatable electric shock devices each have activation circuitry responsive to the activating signal transmitted from the selectively operable remote control means. The activated electric shock device is operable to deliver the disabling electrical shock to that passenger.

Oh, just a patent application you say?

It seems not. The Washington Times, a publication I never thought I'd quote here, has provided handy excerpts from this promotional video.

"This bracelet would:

• Take the place of an airline boarding pass

• Contain personal information about the traveler

• Be able to monitor the whereabouts of each passenger and his/her luggage

• Shock the wearer on command, completely immobilizing him/her for several minutes

The Electronic ID Bracelet, as it’s referred to, would be worn by every traveler “until they disembark the flight at their destination.” Yes, you read that correctly. Every airline passenger would be tracked by a government-funded GPS, containing personal, private and confidential information, and would shock the customer worse than an electronic dog collar if the passenger got out of line."

Are you willing to wear one? I guess you wouldn't have to worry about losing your boarding pass.

How are you feeling about airline security now? Are you comfortable allowing the flight attendant to tazer you if you "get out of line?" Perhaps you are more pliable than I am. I sense the possibility of "getting out of line" around every turn. Most airline movies push me to the edge of "getting out of line" as do toilet lines, screaming infants, and guys sitting next to me who take off their size 14 shoes and leave them between me and the aisle to trip over. (You might sense a few personal experiences in those examples. Just move on.)

You know how many incidents there are on record of folks being roughed up or unreasonably detained. And they aren't just from leftists like me. Robin Kassner is suing for the treatment she received. Feel free to watch the video below and decide for yourself if the response is warranted. (Perhaps I'm a bit touchy because so many of these happen at Washington National incorrectly renamed Reagan airport just down the road.)