Benjamin Franklin, a Founding Father of the United States, was quoted as saying, "Those who would give up essential liberty to purchase a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety." Franklin's belief was stated in the context of the colonists' struggle for independence from Great Britain.
In the years since the terrorist attacks of 9/11/2001, the United States government and the people have struggled over how to protect the country while at the same time, ensure the protection of basic civil liberties. Certain rights are guaranteed by the Bill of Rights. Yet, what should happen to those rights when the nation is at war or otherwise threatened?
Please respond to the following question: Do you agree or disagree with Franklin's statement "Those who would give up essential liberty to purchase a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety"? In your answer, please give evidence to support your position. In addition, please attempt to present a reasoned argument in defense of your answer.
