"If we, as a people, lack the moral fiber to avoid massive drug or alcohol abuse, how shall a war on drugs and alcohol save us from same?"
paulsen dissembles:
That philosophy, of course, would also support the legalization of gambling, pornography, prostitution, gay marriage, and a host of other issues (polygamy, bestiality, etc.).
Do you also support those? -- Unlike years ago, our society today relies on the law to guide behavior.
There you go again paulsen. You admit that "years ago" we had the freedom to commit the 'sins' you list above.
How often have you heard, "Yes I did that and it was wrong -- but it wasn't illegal!"?
Owning 'dangerous products' like drugs, guns, porn, - has never been constitutionally 'illegal', - and never will be.
Engaging in morally repugnant activities like gambling, pornography, prostitution, gay marriage, polygamy, bestiality, etc. -- In private, -- has never been constitutionally 'illegal', - and never will be.
You communitarian warriors simply cannot admit that you are anti-constitutional.
We live in a representative democracy.
I vote for public officials who most closely represent my views on the illegality of drugs, among other things.
You don't agree with the war on drugs? Find a candidate sharing your stance, vote for him or her, and quit whining about others imposing their morals on you.
Communitarian socialists of FR, -- join hands!!
Unite in your democratic stance to stamp out immorality!!
Even your namesake, tpaine, radical and rebel that he was, would agree that a 'free society' does not imply a society free of moral considerations. Laws in a representative democracy are ultimately agreed-upon boundaries on behavior, after all. Behaviors that cause the disintegration of a given society should not be encouraged or affirmed by that society, since no polity can exist for long if the legal structure sustaining and preserving it are undermined or removed. Your namesake was an advocate of common sense. Try exercising some.
Owning 'dangerous products' like drugs, guns, porn, - has never been constitutionally 'illegal', - and never will be.
Engaging in morally repugnant activities like gambling, pornography, prostitution, gay marriage, polygamy, bestiality, etc. -- In private, -- has never been constitutionally 'illegal', - and never will be.
You communitarian warriors simply cannot admit that you are engaged in an anti-constitutional 'war'. -- You are convinced that the moral majority can 'rule'.