[Know your rights]

The principle you stated applies. But try this one on for size: All of society feels the effects of alcohol use. I don't think that's a good argument for banning alcohol; do you?

[Mockingbird For Short]

I think that the fact that all of society feels the effects is justification for regulating its use. I won't get any more specific than that. It's the principle which I am arguing.

And I suspect that a hefty percentage of people who promote "liberties" even tho' it's obvious that those particular liberties are a bane on society are actually motivated by their own selfishness.

[robertpaulsen]

"I don't think that's a good argument for banning alcohol; do you?"

I think it's an excellent argument for banning alcohol. In fact, I'd be willing to bet serious money that it was used to justify Prohibition.

The fact that Prohibition failed indicates that the majority didn't agree with the argument. The fact that marijuana prohibition is succeeding indicates that the majority agree.

But the argument itself is sound.