Safe or Sorry?

According to a recent survey, 71% of Americans favor the increased use of surveillance cameras. Frankly, this surprised me. This is the trend, though. Large cities are increasing using networks of surveillance cameras to replace or supplement police patrols. London is covered in them. New York City and DC are getting there and Chicago has ambitions to be like London within the next few years. And few people are complaining.

What do you think about this? On the one hand, there is the argument that if you're not doing anything wrong, you have nothing to worry about and increased surveillance will only make the world safer. On the other hand (the one tattooed "Remember 1984"), are concerns that giving any government that kind of omnipresence is only opening us up for abuse and totalitarianism.

I'm inclined to agree with the latter. I think what the majority of people may not be considering is the fact that extreme measures put in place today are likely to still be there tomorrow. Governments rarely pull back their power once it has been expanded. You may feel that your government is benevolent today and has your best interests at heart, so you put your faith in them and allow them to watch and record all of your comings and goings. Bomb plots are foiled. Gang problems are reduced. It is a beautiful day in the neighborhood. But what about tomorrow?

Dead Theologians are Back!

OK, the Dead Theologians Society is back in action, but doesn't "Dead Theologians are Back" grab your attention?

After a month off, this New Life small group is beginning a new study. We are tackling Dorothy Sayers' The Mind of the Maker. Last night was the first night, but it was simply an introduction, so you haven't missed much. Next week we dive into the text, Chapters 1 & 2.

In this study we'll be discussing a range of things, from the doctrine of the Trinity, what it means to be "made in the image of God," the nature of creativity and even how this applies to such things as creative writing. It should prove to be fascinating. Once again, a good group has been brought together and more are welcome.

If you're in Chicago and free on Thursday nights, check us out. For more info, see the Dead Theologians Society, Lakeview Edition blog or email me.