Originally Posted by copwriter
We're not talking about training teachers, who don't have experience in observing people and vehicles for unusual behavior that indicates a violation of the law. Cops already know how to observe - this kind of training just alerts them as to what to look for. And, in fact, this sort of thing can be very effective, even if it inconveniences the occasional innocent party. No system is foolproof, but I'll put my money on the observational powers of an experienced and well-trained cop over an expensive piece of technology any day.
Law enforcement officers and their "security" brethren seem to have major trouble identifying terrorists, insurgents, militants, etc.; and even counter-terrorism specialists have major trouble identifying such persons. Unless there is the possibility of a weapon being used in pretty plain sight against them, the "security" community makes mostly mistakes when it comes to individual
"terrorism suspects".
That is to say, more often than not, such "law enforcement" and "security" types are generating errors (unless a weapon is in pretty plain sight and about to be used against them). The "we are here to save the day"-types produce more false positives than anything else productive while the violence continues there or nearby. [And in certain cases, the "we are here to save the day"-types are directly responsible for fueling the next wave of violence.]
Terrorism "on a regular basis" in the modern context is rarely defeated by violence (or threat thereof) alone; a political (or marketing) solution plays a large part if not the largest part.
For those who believe that they can identify all terrorists (by "talking to people"): if you can actually demonstrate an ability to read minds precisely (showing intent to engage in terrorism), Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory will fund a venture that will provide you with a highly-paid job in the mind-reading field. And if you can teach others this miracle skill of telephaty, others will even make sure you get nominated for a Nobel Prize (in the sciences if not the Nobel Peace Prize itself).
