5.8 The Future of Security in the United States: 'More Technology, More Self-Defense'

In the United States, the future of security will probably be marked by greater militarization of law enforcement and even greater dependence on technology. Security agencies already use drones, artificial intelligence, and large databases to track criminal behavior, but gun violence remains a thorn in the country's side.

The gun-control debate will remain central to any conversation about security in the United States. Unless there is a radical change in gun policy, a significant decline in violent offenses involving firearms is unlikely.

At the same time, the private security sector will continue growing. In a country where self-defense is seen as a personal responsibility, we will probably see a proliferation of new technologies and security systems designed for the average consumer.