Game of Drones

        Drones seem to be everywhere and nowhere in American society. But what people fail to realize is that they have been here for a long time. Now the veil that has been covering America’s eyes is slowly lifting and citizens are seeing drones and their anonymous and frighteningly disconnected pilots for what they really are. Drones, themselves, have amazing potential and could be successfully adapted into society. But with the power they carry, heavy restrictions must follow.

Brad Allenby claims, “They honestly believe that it is the drone as drone…about which they are concerned.” Most Americans are so convinced that the drones are the enemy. But they are still wearing the veil that keeps them blind to reality. While drones are powerful beings, they have accomplices: mankind. Humans aid in the many attacks that are becoming impossible to ignore. However, people are ignoring the fact that without human control, drones are just a piece of metal; flightless and innocuous.

The sooner people stop putting the blame on drones, the sooner they can demand change from government officials. It seems as if most of society is wary of drones but indifferent about making change. They are continuously misunderstanding the threat: humans. While people are more than willing to point fingers at the big scary beast flying in the sky, few are placing blame on the big scary man operating the big scary beast.        

People critical of drones argue that they are the things striking fear into the minds of not only American citizens but innocent countries as well. “Drone technology…enhances the gover-

nment’s ability to monitor citizens…” (Gene Healy), key word being Government.  They are willing to risk drones carrying precious information to be attacked where said information could possibly end up in enemy hands.

        The problem is quiet simple: “[drones don’t just give us power; they tempt us to use it” (Lev Grossman). It would be nice to believe that government would not put their needs’ before the law when it is their job to protect Americans. But the fact is government has become Lotus-eaters in areas regarding the nation and drones. So long as there are no restrictions in place for drone usage, the government will continue to be tempted.

The solution is even simpler: a 27th and 28th amendment needs to be added to the constitution, one limiting drone usage on U.S. soil the other addressing the issue of privacy since no amendment directly tackles this issue. The constitution not only informs citizens their rights’ but also tells the government what they cannot do. It is a great advantage the people sometimes over look. Government-not drones- need restrictions placed on them to protect civilians.

But once people get past the hostility associated with drones they will be able to see drones in a whole new light. The possibility, power and potential when it comes to drones are endless. They can be used in law, medical and rescue assistance undoubtedly saving lives. They are not only fast and smart but also strikingly accurate. On the civilian side they can be used anywhere from helping farmers to delivering mail to your door step.

...