Osler's Razor

Prof. Osler:

Thanks to you and Ms. Bishop for a great article! I agree with you that "Stand Your Ground" is bad law and that it is premised, in part, on the fallacious notion that arming citizens preserves public safety.

I wonder, though, if it is also built on the fear that so-called "good-shootings" (a term I reject on principle) will be criminally prosecuted without SYG's protections. Does returning to the old standard leave open the door for punishing shooters who acted to defend themselves with no viable option to retreat?
 

I don't thinks so-- because the old standard allowed you to shoot in the same situation if there was not a viable option to retreat.
 

Thank You Jeanne and Mark for your commentary.

It appears that no matter how discussions about gun ownership / gun laws are framed, our nation is ultimately moved closer to a "wild west" reality.

Many of the comments to your article are frightening - Even in Chicago, I assume most of the shootings and gun deaths affect isolated segments of the population. A vocal minority seem capable of advocating for the walling off of poor or depressed neighborhoods, unconcerned about our citizens marginalized and economically constrained, content to "carry" on the chance paths cross and willing to brandish, point and confront.

The value of life seems to continually diminish amidst a growing concensus of, "Your on your own." For many, this nation was founded on Judeo-Christian traditions - banners unfurled, raised on high and at the forefront of many demonstrations. It is time demonstration (our faith and works) matched rhetoric. The fabric of our nation is in tatters and, in small and often larger ways, we have all contributed.

If we passionately advocated for all as we do for self, we would once again rise together and, in the process, enjoy the blessings of a much safer society...
 

New Christine, you need to talk to my dad. You guys see eye to eye on these things.
 

I'll bring the brats and beer if during your parent's next visit there would be a moment or two to have a discussion.

As I recall...
Seraphim recently wrote:
Wisest of all: Dad.
Who better to have a discussion with...
 

"unconcerned about our citizens marginalized and economically constrained'

There is a way out - stop having children you can't afford, take advantage of the educational opportunities available even in the worst schools, and exhibit good citizenship - i.e. don't run from police, vote, don't use drugs, and don't try to take what belongs to others.

Of course, legalizing and taxing drugs and using the taxes to pay for rehab would solve so many problems, as would supporting Planned Parenthood and making reproductive health care universally available. A five year Norplant before receiving any form of welfare would help to break the cycle.

Until this utopia arrives, of course we need to protect ourselves. I'm sure your reasoned discourse would protect you when being carjacked or mugged by these poor marginalized citizens.

Lee