I believe that terrorism can only be eliminated by wiping out the terrorists, not by negotiating or any other PC devices. For years after the 9/11 attacks I questioned why we did not profile passengers, but as of late I am starting to think that profiling is not the way.
Yes, the vast majority of attempted and actual terrorist attacks against the US have been perpetrated by young to middle-aged males who practiced radical Islam. But giving additional screening only to people who meet this profile is reactive, not proactive. Recent suicide bombers against Israel have been females and even children. While I realize that they are from a different sect than the Wahhabi fundamentalists, it is not unlikely that al-Qaeda will deploy a new kind of terrorist against the US's improved security techniques. And while it pains me to see the elderly put through embarrassing and sometimes even painful security measures, they could be targeted to have something snuck into their luggage or carry ons.
I don't claim to have all the answers regarding airline security, I'm just throwing out my two cents. Fly safe.