The 2000 census. The 2000 census long form asked 53 detailed questions, for example:

Do you have COMPLETE plumbing facilities in this house, apartment, or mobile home; that is, 1) hot and and cold piped water, 2) a flush toilet, and 3) a bathtub or shower?

The form also asked your income in dollars, broken down by source, and whether any

“physical, mental, or emotional condition” causes you difficulty in “learning, remembering, or concentrating.” Some members of Congress objected to these questions, even though Congress had approved them.

Give brief arguments on both sides of the debate over the long form: the government has legitimate uses for such information, but the questions seem to invade people’s privacy.