We still live in a relatively unobtrusive place when it comes to security. Earlier this month I returned home from Amsterdam. The process involved removing all electronics from my small carry on bag, tablet, cell phone, charger, camera. I then went through the screen station and then, just like all travelers, received a very personal pat down from a security agent. My bag was small so it went on one conveyor belt, my wife, also a pat down recipient, had a larger carry on and her bag went on a different belt which required all the contents to be removed and examined. All larger carry-on bags received the same treatment. Before accessing the departure area we also had to go through a immigration barrier, our passports scanned and then have a brief interview with an armed immigration officer. 

Once flying out of Gatwick while in line a gentleman approached me and pointing to my briefcase asked, "Sir do you have a bomb in your carry on?" I agree, the human touch is very effective.