[Porterville]

Alright, I disagree with your use of the quote from Ben Franklin.... in this case especially, because I (that is me) feel that is hyperbolic (I believe this to be the right term). Like the use of icons for self aggrandizing after every post, I grew tired of it, for whatever reason, and ripped on you. I shouldn't have done it, but I did. I like using the most ridiculous thing I can find to counter hyperbole, hence, Hello Kitty.

[JohnGalt]

I have at least 50 other posts on this thread that outline the tradition conservative approach to stand athwart calls for greater centralization or consolidationism. The crux of your argument seems to be that I used the quote in some sort of intellectual vacuum which is not the case (based on the number of other posts I have on this thread) and also your claim that the quote has no bearing on the topic at hand-- which is a political statement/political ploy in its own right.

It seems clear that in context the quote means simply that those who favor consolidationism in the hopes of increasing security, deserve neither. It is a very stunning quote on the nature of self-defense being a personal responsibility rather than a political program. While this is standard operating procedure for Christian patriots, it's a very interesting quote coming from the Quaker Franklin, geared towards the humanistic members of the society.

The tone you chose required a response geared to the level of not only your choosing, but also fueled by the emotionalism in having just read the Supreme Court betrayed the Constitution this AM.