My mind is free. When I research stuff, I go for reliable sources like official, academic or reputable news organization sites. A lot of times I also spent time to learn the subject academically, so I understand how it works instead of solely relying on someone else's opinion.

I went to school for IT and dealt with databases, so my opinion on this matter is not pure speculation. Since I'm an immigrant, what the government does to my data is of a particular interest to me. By this time I figure there's a record of me stored in at least SEVIS, NSEERS, and US-VISIT.

My pet peeve is the word 'common sense'. When you're dealing with complex subjects you have to spend an effort in learning its principles. Common sense often times doesn't cut it, because many things are counter intuitive.

Sorry, I don't mean to lecture you, just a rant.