Security
Protecting systems, data, and people. Security that empowers rather than constrains.
Introduction
Security is often framed as a tradeoff with freedom. But genuine security enables freedom; it does not constrain it. The question is: security for whom, against what threats?
Dimensions of Security
Technical Security
Systems must be robust against attack, failure, and misuse. This requires defense in depth, not perimeter-only protection.
Human Security
People need security from violence, deprivation, and exploitation. Technical systems should enhance human security, not undermine it through surveillance or control.
Ecological Security
Human security ultimately depends on ecological stability. Climate disruption, biodiversity loss, and resource depletion are security threats of the highest order.
Principles for Emancipatory Security
Transparency
Security through obscurity fails. Robust security withstands scrutiny. Open systems can be verified; closed systems require trust.
Proportionality
Security measures must be proportionate to actual threats. Disproportionate responses create new threats while addressing old ones.
Accountability
Those who wield security powers must be accountable. Unchecked security apparatus becomes a threat to the very values it claims to protect.