Finally, we discuss the findings from several studies that Furedy failed to mention but are directly relevant to the issues he raised. The author also discusses polygraph policy. It is not stupid, though some congresspeople may be. When the scientists at the nuclear labs went public with their protest against being given polygraphs, retired Air Force Gen. Eugene Habiger, in charge of the DOE's security, told the San Francisco Chronicle that the test is a powerful deterrent. Polygraphs don't have to work to be a deterrent.
People just have to believe that they work and can reveal whether they have committed crimes.
The DOE doesn't have to believe they work, either. Use of the Polygraph in Security Clearance Determinations. Security Management Magazine, September, 1998. Salon, June, 1998. Today, there is a vast amount of reference materials available on the subject of PDD testing.