ABSTRACT
This chapter offers preliminary cross-disciplinary research into the technological and policy dimensions of the US border security regime in the post-September 11th era. Beginning with an analysis of the defined threats and solutions to border security, the chapter discusses three new technologically-oriented control systems: surveillance, biometrics, and information technology. In the case of the United States, the Bush administration has launched a "Smart Borders" program designed to screen for terrorist incursions into the United States at air and land ports of entry (POE). Thomas A. Birkland theoretical framework, first developed around natural disasters, seeks to understand policy changes after focusing events. Epistemic communities help formulate the solution set endorsed in response to a focusing event. Biometrics are automated methods of recognizing humans, based on unique physiological or behavioral characteristics. The chapter concludes on a cautionary note by highlighting some of the issues securing through technology presents.
