Topic: Behavioral Programming

The discussion continues with Senator Susan Collins' call for independent health studies on TSA x-ray scanners following reports of miscarriages. They also deconstruct the "SPOT" (Screening of Passengers by Observation Techniques) program, which the GAO found to be scientifically unvalidated and a failure in identifying threats.

A House subcommittee evaluated the TSA's Screening of Passengers by Observation Techniques (SPOT) program, which has cost $1.2 billion despite a GAO report claiming it lacks scientific validation. The TSA refused to attend the hearing, leaving an empty placard at the witness table. Representative Paul Broun criticized the agency for rolling out expensive technologies, like "puffer" machines and backscatter scanners, before they were properly tested.

The Department of Homeland Security is developing the Future Attribute Screening Technologies (FAST) program to detect physiological and behavioral cues at security checkpoints. This portable laboratory is designed for use at sporting events, airports, and border crossings to identify potential threats before a crime is committed. The technology is framed as a "thought crime" detection system.

A TSA insider reports that the agency often implements unwritten policies before they appear in official handbooks. The expansion of the TSA is characterized as a government jobs program funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, while concerns are raised about X-ray leakage from poorly sealed scanning machines.

NBC has admitted to incorporating "behavioral programming" into its shows to promote social agendas like recycling and flu shots. A clip from Law & Order: SVU is played where a character disparages the Constitution, which the hosts cite as an example of scripted propaganda designed to influence public opinion.

The TSA has implemented the Screening Passengers by Observation Technique (SPOT) program, utilizing Behavior Detection Officers to identify suspicious travelers. Concerns are raised about how this program affects individuals with Tourette's Syndrome or other involuntary ticks. An anecdote is shared regarding a passenger with Tourette's being removed from a flight due to behavioral misunderstandings.