The Snowden Effect: The Conflict in a Free Society, Who Values Privacy Versus Who Values Security?

Author

Matthew C. Blake

Date of Award

5-2015

Document Type

Thesis

Department

Political Science

First Advisor

Patrick Donnay

Abstract

The Obama Administration has come under scrutiny by both the public and Congress, since former National Security Agency (NSA) contractor Edward Snowden made known the scope of government surveillance programs being utilized by the U.S. government to gather intelligence on domestic citizens. Snowden’s disclosures about the government’s surveillance practices to the mainstream media began in June 2013. I focus on how public opinion towards the government’s surveillance practices and an individual’s reasonable right to privacy has shifted after revelations made by Edward Snowden on the practices of the NSA. Individuals may show support for more government surveillance in the name of National Security when driven by fear of an imminent terror threat. Alternatively they may be anxious of greater government surveillance infringing on their privacy. Through analysis of Pew Research Center data on public opinion, I explore whether there has been a Snowden effect on public opinion shifting attitudes toward a greater appreciation of privacy. I anticipate attitudes on privacy and surveillance will shift in varying degrees across demographic, regional groups, and political identity. I also expect varying degrees of support amongst those who differ in their trust and attitudes towards the government.

Recommended Citation

Blake, Matthew C., "The Snowden Effect: The Conflict in a Free Society, Who Values Privacy Versus Who Values Security?" (2015). Political Science Theses and Capstones. 97.
https://pines.bemidjistate.edu/capstone-polisci/97