FROM THE EDITORS February 26, 2007 Issue

'YOU'RE NOT ALONE'

ACCORDING TO A RECENT Christian Science Monitor article, 16 American cities have now installed a system that allows police to detect where gunshots are fired—citywide, and with pinpoint precision. No longer are abandoned areas beyond ready response. This cutting-edge technology furnishes officials the ability "to gather forensics, including when shots were fired, how many, from what angle, and, in some drive-bys, the direction that the car was moving" (Ben Arnoldy, "High-tech tool for police pinpoints where a gun fired," January 22).

This isn't the only instance in which technology offers new hope for a saving presence. GPS satellite navigation, now widely available in automobiles, allows drivers to go anywhere without the concern that they will become lost or stranded. People can easily install in their homes—and even hang around their necks—devices that alert rescue services in the event of an emergency. Cellphones make communication possible wherever you go.

"You're not alone" seems a very significant message for this age. And that's good (when reasonable precautions are taken to protect personal privacy). As people navigate life, and especially when they're facing fear and danger, they need the security and comfort of knowing that they're not on their own in the world. That a trustworthy power is available for them to rely on, no matter what. But often they're seeking a security that even the most sophisticated technology, or the most comprehensive insurance policy, may not be sufficient to provide.

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