The U.S.A. Patriot Act  

The U.S.A. Patriot Act has generated controversy ever since it was passed into law shortly after the attacks of September 11, 2001. Advocates argue that this legislation is a vital tool required by law enforcement to effectively fight and prevent future acts of terror against the United States. However, opponents of the law are concerned that it legalizes an erosion of the civil liberties of American Citizens. In your paper, please address the following:

1. Summarize the origins and development of the Patriot Act in Congress to include its support and opposition, reauthorizations, and amendments.
2. Select three to five provisions of the Patriot Act that you consider to be the most controversial and explain the arguments on both sides.
3. Provide an overall assessment of whether the Patriot Act has been beneficial or detrimental to American society. 

The paper must be at least three double-spaced pages in length (excluding title and reference pages) and formatted according to APA style. In addition to the two required readings, you must use at least one scholarly resource to support your claims. Cite your sources within the text of your paper and on the reference page. For information regarding APA, including samples and tutorials, visit the Ashford Writing Center, located within the Learning Resources tab on the left navigation toolbar.