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A foldable knife or a tube of toothpaste. Which is the threat? [Link]

First, my toothpaste was taken from me and thrown in the trash. The reason – it was larger than 3oz. I didn’t really care, I had forgotten about the new rule and I could buy another tube when I arrived. So, that seriously potential danger is ranked number 1 by the TSA. After all, it could be minty-smelling C4 explosive. I didn't argue, the screener looked at me like I was a moron for even attempting to bring it on board.

Next, my JBL portable speaker system for my iPod. This caused incredible confusion. It was in my carry-on bag, and as it went through the x-ray machine I heard a flurry of activity from the TSA screeners. They all rushed to the screen, making strange faces and pointing fingers. I was asked to accompany my luggage to a screening station, where they dusted for explosive traces and asked me to identify the object. When I explained it was a speaker system, they pondered and then let me through the gate.

Finally, my super-sharp and very handy lock-knife keychain. I had put my keys in my coat pocket and completely forgot about the dangerous weapon attached. I was surprised then that this object was never considered a threat. My coat went through the x-ray machine with no issues, and I left the screening area to board the plane carrying a deadly weapon. Make no mistake, this knife could gut a deer carcass (which I would never do, but you get the point).

Plus, the knife made it through security again! What line of CYA BS will the TSA blog shovel in response? Security theater at it's best.

Security theater are security countermeasures that provide the feeling of security while doing little or nothing to actually improve security.^[1] The term was coined by Bruce Schneier for his book Beyond Fear but has gained currency in security circles, particularly for describing airport security measures. It is also used by some experts such as Edward Felten to describe the security measures imposed after the September 11, 2001 attacks on the World Trade Center. Security theater gains importance both by satisfying and exploiting the gap between perceived risk and actual risk.