I feel like these things have gotten out of hand. Okay, this from like 2009 but I mean do mean it, REALLY!?!?! I can't put it much more disgusted and fed up than that. Particularly the second-last paragraph.
New rules imposed by the U.S. Transportation Security Administration also limit on-board activities by customers and crew in U.S. airspace that may adversely impact on-board service. Among other things, during the final hour of flight customers must remain seated, will not be allowed to access carry-on baggage, or have personal belongings or other items on their laps.
Is this really such a paranoid nation? Needing to be coddled all the time, unable to take personal responsibility. Always putting the blame on others, unable to see the big picture?
What happened to "Those who would give up essential liberty to purchase a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety"?
It reminds me of a story by Nadine Gordimer called 'Once Upon a Time' about such a sheltered environment. Maybe more people should read it. And then decide if surrounding themselves with barbed wire in an effort to stay safe is really such a good idea.