Public opinions on security and civil liberties in America after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001

Abstract

After the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, Americans had to reconsider their opinions related to security and civil liberties. How did public opinion change in the period after the attacks? Many studies have examined specific influences on this public opinion but few have provided an integrated view from a sociological perspective. On the basis of a review of the body of research existing on this topic, it is concluded that the rethinking process resulted in more support for domestic and foreign security policies, even at the expense of civil liberties. This article provides insight into the mechanisms through which these opinions became established, using the DBO theory. This theory explains how action is determined by desires, beliefs and opportunities. Opinions differ among individuals, of course, and depend on perceived threat, prior political opinions, and trust in the government. The rhetoric of the Bush administration also had an influence on public opinion.