I think the problem that you, yourself have, and I would think Terry, as well, is that the rights Jefferson claimed in the Declaration of Independence derive from a philosophy of natural right, derived from God, which is part of a framework I think you have already rejected. I, personally, believe in God, and believe that he/she/it created mankind, and imbued mankind with the moral right to be left alone. I believe that if one does not respect the legitimate rights of others, you have acted immorally. It is just wrong, and moral beings do not do wrong things.
But, I agree that at times it may be more practical to have a gun.
Actually, I think that atheists are perfectly capable of moral philosophy, q.v. stoicism, Marcus Aurelius, but it doesn't seem to happen often. |
