I was once subjected to a head-injury seminar and got to meet accident victims. You'd think they were born retarded, they were so messed up by their accidents. It was scary for a kid.
Basically there are times when it should be safe to ride without a helmut, then there are conditions when you totally need one. Tough issue, IMO.
Not really.
It is NOT the government's place to force a citizen to do ANYTHING that is in their own best interest. The Constitution does not give the government the power to be our nanny.
Freedom means you are free to do stupid things to yourself.
I ride. Anybody that rides without a complete set of protective gear (not just a full face helmet) is a total idiot, IMHO.