In one, they will guarantee security — patdowns, strip searches, no one leaving their seat…whatever it takes. Flyers on this system will expect their flight to be somewhat uncomfortable — but they will (perhaps) be safer.

In the other, they will insure convenience, dignity, and some modicum of comfort. There will still be security, but it will be limited to a few non-invasive basics that we know work. Flyers on the second system will know that they are taking some small increased risk of dying in a terrorist attack.

In both systems, cabin doors will remain reinforced to prevent a 9/11-style attack, and checked baggage will still be carefully screened.

So which would people choose?

I, for one, would choose the supposedly more risky option, for two reasons: 1. I largely believe the increased security is just theater, and doesn’t make you actually safer, and 2. The risk of an attack is so low that the sacrifices in terms of human dignity and comfort aren’t worth it to me.

This idea will never happen — but it would be interesting to see what people would choose if it did….

Two Wii wheels, hard drives, remotes, lap top? Jack probably set off some type of new-fangled geek alarm. Tell him to leave the keffiyeh and the “Punish the Infidels” game for Wii at home (rated E for Extremist!)