At issue is, does a citizen have the right to conceal their identity? Some sub questions are:
- concealment in public spaces
- concealment in private spaces
- concealment before the law
- concealment electronically
In the US, these should be coded under 4th Amendment.
To wit, “the right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by oath or affirmation ....”
I am of the opinion that identity is tied to persons and effects. As such, I am of opinion that a person has the right to conceal their identity in public, private, and electronically, but not before the law.
As an example, should it be legal for a man to stand across from a synagogue wearing a Hitler mask? Most Austrians would so no. Must Americans... I dunno.
Another thing to consider. Austria is banning the burka not because of concealment. It's the "harmful to society" thing. I suppose if an Austrian Muslim walked around with a "Slay Those Who Insult Islam" sign, Austria might ban that too.
Should such a sign be banned in America?
The British have no problem with that sign. London:
