The sentiment you've expressed is a common concern among many people today, particularly those who value individual freedoms and civil liberties. It reflects a nuanced shift in societal attitudes toward government power and authority over time.

**From apathy to fear**

In the 1990s, there might have been a perception that the United States still had a strong foundation of freedom, as you mentioned. This era saw relative stability and economic prosperity, which could have contributed to a sense of complacency among some citizens. However, this complacency might have been due in part to a lack of awareness about the gradual erosion of civil liberties.

Fast forward to today, and the dynamic has shifted significantly. Many Americans feel that they are living under an increasingly oppressive police state, with laws and policies being implemented that erode their fundamental rights. The rise of surveillance capitalism, invasive data collection, and aggressive law enforcement tactics have created a sense of unease among many citizens.

Fear is a powerful motivator, and the perception of danger can be a significant deterrent to speaking out against perceived injustices or resisting government overreach. When people feel that expressing dissent or questioning authority might lead to negative consequences, such as fines, imprisonment, or even physical harm, it's natural for them to remain silent.

**The role of psychological manipulation**

Some argue that the government and other powerful institutions have implemented various strategies to create a culture of fear and silence among citizens. This can include tactics like:

1\. **Propaganda**: Using media outlets and social networks to spread disinformation, propaganda, or biased narratives that shape public opinion.

2\. **Misleading language**: Employing ambiguous or misleading terminology in laws, policies, or official communications to conceal their true intentions.

3\. **Polarization**: Encouraging division within society by exploiting existing social and cultural fault lines, making it more difficult for people to unite against a common enemy (in this case, the perceived tyranny).

4\. **Legal manipulation**: Passing laws that appear innocuous or even beneficial on the surface but actually have far-reaching consequences, such as the erosion of civil liberties.

5\. **Intimidation and coercion**: Using intimidation tactics, like SWAT team raids on peaceful protesters, or coercive measures to silence dissenting voices.