At some point we need to ask ourselves about the tendencies of those in power. Throughout history those in power have been or have been heavily influenced by the economic elites. Many countries are effectively ruled by them, placing themselves above the law. Powerful people seek to maintain and increase their wealth and power. It's a very old song and dance. We need to stop lying to ourselves about it.

We want to believe that government is there to protect us. In a sense that is correct. That is why we tolerate government. It is supposed to maintain an army and enforce laws to preserve a state of freedom and prosperity. However, it can also be used as a tool of oppression of the working masses to enhance the situations of the economically powerful. This danger never goes away, because it's a part of human nature. Who can honestly say they'd never abuse great power if they had it or that their children would be raised adequately to stave off the natural tendencies of the powerful enough to keep them responsive to the needs of others?

Within that context of understanding, we should contemplate the utility of new technologies in achieving goals that economic elites would prefer. They want to maintain their comfortable position in society. To do so they feel they have to keep other people under control. Mass domestic in surveillance is a good way to keep an eye on the population, finding and possibly neutralizing populist political leaders or organizers before they threaten one's economic interests. Blackmail or legal threats can be made from that data. Stifling free speech can help in that endeavor too. Police that operate above the law are useful to keep the people in line. For instance, excessive force can be used freely against protesters without the police fearing too much trouble. When we allow ourselves to consider that such evil is possible where we live, the utility of anti-terrorist legislation become obvious.