Tutorial Ticket (Week 2)
For your ticket, outline one wicked problem and explain in 100-200 words why this is a wicked problem.
The process of setting anti-terrorism laws represents a wicked problem. Its solutions are always subject to debate and clearly based on value judgments. The diversity of actors involved in responding to the threat of terrorism inspires a range of such values and perspectives. Politicians have an imperative inspired by public opinion and the media to reinforce national security which can sometimes outweigh the protection of civil liberties. Police want to have the tools to collect evidence, prevent offences and protect the public. Judges must implement legislation while protecting the rule of law and other such judicial principles.
Meanwhile, the field of anti-terrorism also rates high on Head and Alford’s dimension of complexity. Terrorist acts are unpredictable, and indeed Taleb cites 9/11 as an obvious Black Swan. The genesis of terrorism is more complex than the public narrative is often prepared to concede. Once antiterrorism measures are implemented, it is difficult if not impossible to test their efficacy. The interaction of potential terrorists with their community and actors such as the police is complex, dynamic and difficult to measure. Finally, antiterrorism policy is both difficult to undo and subject to high levels of expectation from the community with no ‘right to be wrong’.
Here is a website which explores Australia's approach to antiterrorism: http://www.aph.gov.au/library/intguide/law/terrorism.htm#terrmisc
Meanwhile, the field of anti-terrorism also rates high on Head and Alford’s dimension of complexity. Terrorist acts are unpredictable, and indeed Taleb cites 9/11 as an obvious Black Swan. The genesis of terrorism is more complex than the public narrative is often prepared to concede. Once antiterrorism measures are implemented, it is difficult if not impossible to test their efficacy. The interaction of potential terrorists with their community and actors such as the police is complex, dynamic and difficult to measure. Finally, antiterrorism policy is both difficult to undo and subject to high levels of expectation from the community with no ‘right to be wrong’.
Here is a website which explores Australia's approach to antiterrorism: http://www.aph.gov.au/library/intguide/law/terrorism.htm#terrmisc