[extropy-chat] let's say

[Joseph Bloch]

Mike Lorrey wrote:

>There are many privately owned airliners in the world today. As 9-11
>demonstrated, each and every one of them is a WMD. When do you start
>lobbying for state ownership of all airliners?
>  
>

There is, of course, a difference between state ownership of something 
and regulation of that thing. Airliners are not _only_ WMD's... they 
can, however be perverted to that purpose and are thus regulated. 
Aerosoled anthrax and fission bombs have only one purpose, and thus are 
rightfully kept from the hands of individuals.

>When WMDs are outlawed, only outlaws will have WMDs. 
>

Except when WMD's are outlawed for _some_, who cannot necessarily be 
trusted with them. Like you and me. Many's the time I wish I had a 
neutron bomb or two I could hurl at U Cal Berkeley, for instance... ;-)

Frankly, I trust our government to use its WMD stockpiles responsibly, 
with restraint, and in the national interest. Considering such things 
haven't been used (by us) since 1945, I think it's not a completely 
unreasonable position.

Joseph

Enhance your body "beyond well" and your mind "beyond normal":
http://www.humanenhancement.com

New Jersey Transhumanist Association:
http://www.goldenfuture.net/njta