Privacy

Both government agencies and private companies have extensive access to data about us. In this activity, students learn about challenges to our digital privacy and discuss their own views about the risks we take when we put information online.  

In this interactive lesson, students consider the issue of internet privacy, both in their own lives and in society, including government spying, parental monitoring, and corporate tracking of consumers. What is the connection and potential conflict between safety and privacy, both on a personal and...

Edward Snowden's leak of classified information about the NSA's surveillance of American citizens has touched off a debate about the need for government secrecy versus the public’s right to know. Two student readings and discussion questions probe the controversy.

Several brief case studies that raise questions about civil liberties in the wake of 9/11, followed by suggestions for classroom discussion.

Two student readings review the history of FISA and new legislation that allows continued warrantless surveillance of Americans.

Three student readings explore the legal conflict over whether the government can claim "state secrets privilege" to tap people's phones, review email, and examine internet usage. Discussion questions and suggested activities follow.

Student readings consider President Obama's adoption of three Bush administration policies that Obama had previously opposed: extraordinary rendition, the state secrets privilege, and habeas corpus. Discussion questions, inquiry subjects, and a student essay assignment follow.

Two student readings review the history of FISA and new legislation that allows continued warrantless surveillance of Americans.

The Bush administration's secret surveillance program, launched soon after 9/11, is the source of a lasting controversy, including a fight over the Protect America Act. Two student readings explore the issue.

Are our telephone calls and e-mails part of the secret surveillance program inaugurated by President Bush after 9/11? Two student readings and several suggested activities explore the controversy over presidential authority to eavesdrop.