Backscatter X-ray

[tward]

I was just reading over the first chapter in my textbook for my Criminal Justice class starting tomorrow, and came across a blip about the Backscatter X-ray.

I guess I assumed before that something like that was possible/existed, but I didn't think it would be something used frequently... I have not read too much about it, my textbook only has a half page about it (so far anyhow) that mentions the TSA's testing it in 2003, I'm unsure if it's still in use/testing, or was made something standard yet (the section is discussing Technology Issues in Criminal Justice, and enhancing the ability to detect/prevent crimes vs. giving up privacy/civil liberties).

I personally don't know how I feel about it, while yeah, it could be helpful in finding bombs/weapons/etc... it seems to me there should be better ways to detect that kind of thing without looking at everyone naked through an x-ray! :eek:
(Ok, I guess I DO know how I feel about it after all!)

Anyhow, on to the purpose of this post... what are your feelings on it and the benefits/negatives of using such a piece of equipment as frequently as it would be if the TSA deployed it at all checkpoints?