i have utmost respect for differing opinions, its why im here. i dont represent any particular party, i label myself ultra conservative because that tends to be the text book definition. my opinions on each individual subject will vary in degree, no question, with the libertarian view. some i already know we will agree completely, some probably not even close. wouldnt be much use of me being here if i towed this or any other political line to a tee. i find this interesting much like the whigs, the federalists, etc., its healthy for a democracy. and of course....a couple comments.
'libertarianism is a huge tent'. i know, there is not a movement in the history of america that hasnt stated that. wouldnt be much sense in starting a movement only a couple qualify for because of rigid standards and specific views. so far, to be perfectly honest with you, i have had trouble deciphering whether there is any real consistency on peoples rights vs. govt intrusion here, but im sure we will get there. hopefully.
heres my general problem, you want to say its ok to destroy yourself with drugs, its noones business.....but then after the fact there is going to be a pool of funds and such set aside in the form of redistribution of wealth because you were obviously unable to make correct decisions and now its important for society (aka my wallet) to show the proper compassion of this wretched destructive behavior. so its bad, we know its bad, but go ahead and we will step in after the damage is done. seriously, what is the message we are sending. this, in a nutshell, is my problem with the argument. if its bad overall for individuals and society, it should be illegal, and if caught engaging in the crime you should be punished to the full extent of the law. this to me seems like a very clear message. im as disgusted as the next person about the incremental infringements of our rights but it goes way beyond the drug war, this is just a tiny symptom of a govt run amuck and the people too spoiled to pay attention. yes, there is in fact a role for govt and some form of taxation, it just happens to be about 1 or 2 percent of the monstrosity we have today. now, if you guys dont mind me hanging out on your thread and respectfully disagreeing and stirring up the conversation a bit, im looking for an open door here to a new subject. |
