Straight Dope Message Board Political Survey

[BobLibDem]

General:

What do you identify yourself politically as?:
Progressive/Liberal

What political party in the United States do you identify with the most?:

Democratic Party

On a scale of 1 to 10 with 1 being “He should be impeached” and 10 being “One of the best Presidents” how would you rate President Barack Obama of the USA so far?:

8

Previous presidents:
Bush II 1
Clinton 8
Bush I 5
Reagan 1
Carter 7
Ford 6
Nixon 3
Johnson 8

What country other then your home country do you favour the most?:

Canada

Foreign Policy

Do you support the US/NATO Military Operations in Iraq?:

No. The war was one of the biggest blunders in US history and we need to get out as quickly as we can.

Do you support the US and Coalition Military Operation in Afghanistan?:

Not so much anymore. Let’s face it, there will NEVER be a functioning government there and we’re sort of peeing into the wind right now.

Do you support any sort of intervention in Darfur (Military, humanitaritan, etc,)?:

Yes. Whatever it takes to end the genocide.

What should be done with North Korea on the current nuclear crisis?:

Negotiations, sanctions.

What is your opinion of the Dokdo dispute between the Republic of Korea and the Empire of Japan?:

I have no opinion on the matter.

What is your opinion of NATO and should it expand across Europe?:

It has worked well and we should allow all European countries to join.

What should be done about Zimbabwe?:

Work with other African nations to put pressure on Mugabe to resign. If all else fails, support other African nations in military action.

What should be done about the Mexican Drug Wars and should the US and other countries intervene?:

Give the Mexican government whatever assistance they might require.

Do you support the military actions against pirates in Somalia and do you think more action should be taken?:

Yes, pirates are always “in season”. Military action in Somalia should only be taken with a broad international coalition.

Economy

Should there be Universal Health Care or if there is in your nation do you support it?:

Yes, absolutely.

How should taxes be organized?:

Very progressive tax rates. Tax capital gains as ordinary income.

How should the recession be ended?

Massive infrastructure improvement projects.

Do you support the US Government’s Economic Stimulus Plan?:

Yes, should have been bigger.

Should the automobile companies be bailed out by the US government?:

Yes. If we had UHC, the Big 3 would be more competitive in the world market.

Is the minimum wage sufficent or not?:

No.

Do you support NAFTA?:

No…

Social/Moral

Do you support abortion and what restrictions should be placed on it?:

Yes. Third trimester should be available only for sound medical reasons.

Do you support gay marriage or civil unions or domestic partnerships?:

Let them get married.

Do you think Creationism or Intelligent Design should or should not be taught in school?:

No.

Do you think broadcasting, publishing etc. should be regulated for violence, profanity, sexuality etc.?:

Absolutely not.

How do you think birth control should be regulated?:

No regulations and should be free for everybody.

Do you support prayer in schools and if so how much (voluntary or required?):

Not at all.

What is your opinion of capital punishment and which crimes should it be applied to?:

Should be banned but willing to make exception for Bush and Cheney.

How much should firearms and other weapons be regulated?:

Allow hunting rifles, shotguns, and revolvers. Everything else should be ripped from cold dead fingers and melted down.

How should drugs be regulated?:

No significant change from current policy.

History

Was the United States right in going to war against the secessionist Confederate States in the Civil War?:

I used to be very much in the camp that yes, it was right. Now, I wish we had let them go.

Was the United States justified on dropping the atomic bombs on Hiroshima?:

No. The Japanese were trying to negotiate a surrender but the US wanted to make sure it was done before the USSR entered the war.

Was colonialism or at least parts of it justified?:

Hard to imagine how it would have turned out without it. I think Africa under colonial rule was better than independent Africa.

Was the American Revolution justified?:

Yes, but I think eventually colonialism would have died on its own.

[FriarTed]

It’ll be a while before I actually post an answer but I want to congratulate Curtis LeMay for coming up with this and all of you who have answered so far- this is really making me ponder! Usually, I can whip out political survey answers in a second.

[Linty_Fresh]

This form below will be a survey of Straight Dope Message Board members and their political opinions.

General:

What do you identify yourself politically as?:

Moderate Conservative (Sydney Hook is my hero)

What political party in the United States do you identify with the most?:

Republican Party

On a scale of 1 to 10 with 1 being “He should be impeached” and 10 being “One of the best Presidents” how would you rate President Barack Obama of the USA so far?:

5, but I believe it will drop

What country other then your home country do you favour the most?:

I’m currently teaching English in South Korea. I love Korea. I wouldn’t want to go anywhere else overseas, not even Europe.

Foreign Policy

Do you support the US/NATO Military Operations in Iraq?:

Not really. I support the safe return of every US/NATO soldier, and I hope to hell the Iraqis can make a democracy out of that shithole, but I’m not holding my breath.

Do you support the US and Coalition Military Operation in Afghanistan?:

I’m honestly not sure. Afghans are a funny lot. They would rather die than be interfered with by outsiders, and they have too much of a home court advantage. Too many mountains. Too many caves. I can the point in arguments to get in there and finish the job whatever that job may be, and arguments to just leaving them to themselves.

I don’t think democracy will take hold in Iraq for good, but democracy in Iraq is a virtual certainty in comparison to the possibility of democracy in Afghanistan.

Do you support any sort of intervention in Darfur (Military, humanitaritan, etc,)?:

Absolutely not. That is not the army’s job, and we’re stretched thinly enough as it is. I was against putting troops in harms way in Iraq, and I have my doubts about Afghanistan. No way will I support anything like that in Darfur. (On edit: Humanitarian intervention, perhaps, but without big fucking guns to back the nicey-nice words, humanitarians don’t stand a prayer, and I don’t support any military intervention whatsoever)

**What should be done with North Korea on the current nuclear crisis?:
**

Sanctions, continued support of South Korea as an ally, and continued talks. Your basic stick and carrot approach.

**What is your opinion of the Dokdo dispute between the Republic of Korea and the Empire of Japan?:
**

Who gives a shit?

**What is your opinion of NATO and should it expand across Europe?:
**

I don’t know enough about NATO to comment.

**What should be done about Zimbabwe?:
**

See my response to Darfur.

**What should be done about the Mexican Drug Wars and should the US and other countries intervene?:
**

Christ, I can see the point of the military in this situation much more than in Darfur and Zimbabwe, but . . . no. Too much potential for things to spiral out of control. The last thing we want is all out war along a major American border. There has to be another way. Has to be.

Do you support the military actions against pirates in Somalia and do you think more action should be taken?:

Absolutely, if it threatens US lives and interests. That’s one of the things I actually think Obama handled correctly. I’ll say this for Obama: So far, he’s treating the military with respect and handled it correctly, which is a lot more than I can say for any other president since early 1992.

Economy

Should there be Universal Health Care or if there is in your nation do you support it?:

I’m divided. I simply can’t decide this yet. Something has to be done, but is Obama’s way the best way? It’s not a rhetorical question: Both sides have clouded the issue, and I’ve decided how I’m going to vote. I’ll just wait for the smoke to clear and see how it goes either way.

**How should taxes be organized?:
**

Tax the rich, and use the funds to help with the efforts in Afghanistan and Iraq. One of the few remaining things I agree with Ben Stein about.

How should the recession be ended?

Damned if I know. More financial regulations and stimulus plans are great ways to prevent recessions, but once you’re in one, you’re in it for the long haul. Which is why they call it a recession.

Do you support the US Government’s Economic Stimulus Plan?:

Something has to be done. I agree with bailing out the banks, but let’s not take things too far.

Should the automobile companies be bailed out by the US government?:

Yes, for the exact reasons mentioned in the OP.

**Is the minimum wage sufficent or not?:
**

Probably not. But that doesn’t mean raising it won’t cause more problems than it solves. Then again, I’m not an economist, so I really don’t have an answer to it.

Do you support NAFTA?:

It’s a pain in the neck, but globalization is inevitable. We might as well try to realize it on our own terms while we can, although I worry about the American worker too.

Social/Moral

Do you support abortion and what restrictions should be placed on it?:

Abortion during first trimester only. No partial birth abortions under any circumstances.

Do you support gay marriage or civil unions or domestic partnerships?:

I support gay marriage, although I don’t believe we should resort to judicial activism to realize it. No new amendments or questionable readings of the existing constitution.

Do you think Creationism or Intelligent Design should or should not be taught in school?:

Creationism and Intelligent Design should be kept as far away from the classrooms as possible.

Do you think broadcasting, publishing etc. should be regulated for violence, profanity, sexuality etc.?:

Depends what you mean by regulated. FCC regulations are one thing, but I don’t support any new regulations, especially with regards to publishing. Don’t forget about the first amendment, folks. The first and second amendments are what make the rest of the Bill of Rights workable.

How do you think birth control should be regulated?:

I don’t think it should be given out in public high schools. Other than that, no regulations.

Do you support prayer in schools and if so how much (voluntary or required?):

Religious and home schools can do whatever they want. No school-regulated prayer in any way, shape, or form–including moments of silence–for any public school at all. I believe in the separation of church and state.

What is your opinion of capital punishment and which crimes should it be applied to?:

First degree murder and heinous forms of treason (I would have supported either Aldrich Ames or Robert Hansenn being fried.). Not for anything else, certainly not for inadvertant deaths. That way lies damnation.
How much should firearms and other weapons be regulated?

Law abiding citizens should be allowed to own and carry weapons. The non-law-abiding citizens seem to have about as much trouble finding guns as they do crack, pot, alcohol (for minors), and underaged sex.

How should drugs be regulated?:

Marijuana and some hallucinogens legalized gradually. Crack cocaine and heroin? No.

**History
**
**Was the United States right in going to war against the secessionist Confederate States in the Civil War?:
**
Hell yes. I don’t shed any tears on the south’s behalf over reconstruction woes, either.

**Was the United States justified on dropping the atomic bombs on Hiroshima?:
**
Absolutely. It saved thousands of lives on both sides, kept the USSR out of Japan, and stopped Japan from stonewalling. By the way, I don’t think Japan deserved an honorable or peaceful way out. They should have just called it a day after the first bomb fell.

Was colonialism or at least parts of it justified?:

Yes, although we could have treated the Native American people a lot more civilly. I wouldn’t mind seeing them get a helping hand from the government to pull themselves out of the mire the government itself put them in.

**Was the American Revolution justified?:
**
Who cares? It happened, and it led to the formation of the greatest nation on earth. Justified or not, I’m glad we had it.

[kopek]

What do you identify yourself politically as?:

Libertarian

What political party in the United States do you identify with the most?:

None although I am more likely to register as a Democrat for their Primaries than a Republican for theirs.

On a scale of 1 to 10 with 1 being “He should be impeached” and 10 being “One of the best Presidents” how would you rate President Barack Obama of the USA so far?:

I’ll reserve opinion for at least another 6 months or so.

What country other then your home country do you favour the most?:

Georgia (the Republic and not the State of)

Foreign Policy

Do you support the US/NATO Military Operations in Iraq?:

Yes - I just wish they had gone more an Army of Occupation route such as the US did in Germany and Japan at the end of WW II

Do you support the US and Coalition Military Operation in Afghanistan?:

Yes

Do you support any sort of intervention in Darfur (Military, humanitaritan, etc,)?:

Only with great care and planning. We’re on too many “fronts” at the same time for me to really want to see another opened.

What should be done with North Korea on the current nuclear crisis?:

Really don’t know. We’re basically getting in the face of a loose nut over nukes. Unless we have the will to consider theater-grade weapons as an option, we’re probably better off taking some lighter economic and political options than really turning the screws on.

What is your opinion of the Dokdo dispute between the Republic of Korea and the Empire of Japan?:

No opinion.

What is your opinion of NATO and should it expand across Europe?:

Big alliances make me nervous as a rule but NATO has worked out fairly well. I would say expand but making allowances for countries to withdraw easily if they feel it necessary.

What should be done about Zimbabwe?:

No opinion.

What should be done about the Mexican Drug Wars and should the US and other countries intervene?:

I would just stay out of it. We’re not the world’s army, or shouldn’t be. And we’re not the world’s police force either.

Do you support the military actions against pirates in Somalia and do you think more action should be taken?:

No. The Barbary Coast was some time back. In these days, with rules of engagement and all, we may be better served assisting the ships in arming and protecting themselves than making a military naval campaign out of it.

Economy

Should there be Universal Health Care or if there is in your nation do you support it?:

No

How should taxes be organized?:

National sales tax with some income tax over a certain level of income.

How should the recession be ended?

Less government debt would help but I think the current recession has a life all its own.

Do you support the US Government’s Economic Stimulus Plan?:

Bits and pieces of it but overall I think it has too much waste and wasted effort.

Should the automobile companies be bailed out by the US government?:

Probably not - with the qualification that my opinion on this is really on the edge. We’ve allowed so many other industries such as steel to simply fail that it bothers me that the auto industry is getting what I consider preferential treatment.

Is the minimum wage sufficent or not?:

Fine as it is.

Do you support NAFTA?:

No - but more for not liking these kinds of coalitions.

Social/Moral

Do you support abortion and what restrictions should be placed on it?:

As for my wife and I, we decided long ago that for us abortion just isn’t an option. We really do view it as killing another human being. That being said, we find it had to impose our belief on anyone else. So in terms of voting, we usually go “pro-choice” or with some of the more moderate “pro-life” candidates.

Do you support gay marriage or civil unions or domestic partnerships?:

“Gay marriage”. Marriage is a function of the State, not the Church, and the benefits or restrictions placed on one person should be evenly applied across the board. People and churches can decide if they wish to bless or support those marriages but their existence should be as natural an event as heterosexual marriage.

Do you think Creationism or Intelligent Design should or should not be taught in school?:

Should. We teach a few other things that I would classify as not totally proven or accurate so why not this as well? No harm, no foul.

Do you think broadcasting, publishing etc. should be regulated for violence, profanity, sexuality etc.?:

Yes - but where the lines get drawn probably falls more in the catagory of Great Debates.

How do you think birth control should be regulated?:

Less than it is now. From what I’ve learned from the kids I’ve worked with, the average 15 year old has an easier time getting serious recreational pharmacuticals than they do condoms and other forms of birth control. And then we wonder why the numbers of abortions and teen moms keep going up.

Do you support prayer in schools and if so how much (voluntary or required?):

Voluntary prayer yes for all schools.

What is your opinion of capital punishment and which crimes should it be applied to?:

Yes. Which crimes becomes another of those Great Debates. Murder and treason are obvious choices but there are times when I would say any crime can be raised to capital punishment standards because of the number of victims and the impact of that event on society – including stock market fraud.

How much should firearms and other weapons be regulated?:

Rollback to the GCA of 1968 but this time around actually enforce it!

How should drugs be regulated?:

Decriminalize (rather than legalize) pot and some of the others and regulate the harder recreational drugs.

History

Was the United States right in going to war against the secessionist Confederate States in the Civil War?:

No. No-one forced the individual states into the Union at gunpoint. They shouldn’t have been forced to remain (or reenter at gunpoint.

Was the United States justified on dropping the atomic bombs on Hiroshima?:

Yes - because it worked.

Was colonialism or at least parts of it justified?:

Depends on the year and place. The French version in North America circa 1750, yes. The British version during the same time frame, probably not.

Was the American Revolution justified?:

Yes

[Really_Not_All_That_Bright]

General:

What do you identify yourself politically as?:
Economic moderate, social liberal
What political party in the United States do you identify with the most?:
Democratic Party - but they’re too socially conservative for my taste.
On a scale of 1 to 10 with 1 being “He should be impeached” and 10 being “One of the best Presidents” how would you rate President Barack Obama of the USA so far?:
Too early to call
What country other then your home country do you favour the most?:
I was born and raised in the United Kingdom.

Foreign Policy

Do you support the US/NATO Military Operations in Iraq?:
The continued presence of US troops? Yes. If you break something you’re responsible for fixing it. The original invasion? Absolutely not.
Do you support the US and Coalition Military Operation in Afghanistan?:
Absolutely.
Do you support any sort of intervention in Darfur (Military, humanitaritan, etc,)?:
Humanitarian intervention with enough of a military presence to ensure the safety of aid workers.
**What should be done with North Korea on the current nuclear crisis?:
**
What is being done. Little.
**What is your opinion of the Dokdo dispute between the Republic of Korea and the Empire of Japan?:
**
Don’t know much about it. Nitpick: modern Japan is just called “Japan”. No “empire of”.
**What is your opinion of NATO and should it expand across Europe?:
**
It’s a bit of a dinosaur but it certainly doesn’t do any harm.
**What should be done about Zimbabwe?:
**
No opinion.
**What should be done about the Mexican Drug Wars and should the US and other countries intervene?:
**
Yes, by legalizing drugs and thus removing funding from the drug lords.
Do you support the military actions against pirates in Somalia and do you think more action should be taken?
Certainly against the ones who are actively engaged in the pursuit or boarding of a vessel.

**
Economy**

Should there be Universal Health Care or if there is in your nation do you support it?:
Absolutely.
**How should taxes be organized?:
**
More or less as they are, although the tax code should be simplified.
How should the recession be ended?
It will end by itself. In the meantime, the main form of government stimulus should be temporary hiring.
Do you support the US Government’s Economic Stimulus Plan?
Not the specific spending proposals.
Should the automobile companies be bailed out by the US government?
Probably not, but I doubt we’re ready or able to bear the effect the failure of the Big Three would have on the economy of the Midwest in particular and the US as a whole.
**Is the minimum wage sufficent or not?:
**
Don’t know, make more.
Do you support NAFTA?:
No opinion. I support free trade as a general proposition.

Social/Moral

Do you support abortion and what restrictions should be placed on it?:
Yes, up to the beginning of the third trimester. I believe if on-demand abortion is going to be banned then abortions for rape and incest victims will also have to be banned.
Do you support gay marriage or civil unions or domestic partnerships?:
Fully support gay marriage and think less of anyone who doesn’t.
Do you think Creationism or Intelligent Design should or should not be taught in school?:
I’m fine with teaching a wide spectrum of creation myths in schools in the context of a religious studies class. I absolutely oppose the selective teaching of Judeo-Christian creation myths, and the teaching of any creation myth in science classes.
Do you think broadcasting, publishing etc. should be regulated for violence, profanity, sexuality etc.?:
I think the system currently in place works fine. I do think we should place more emphasis on reducing violence on TV and relax the restrictions on sex and sexuality somewhat.
How do you think birth control should be regulated?:
By physicians, as do all thinking people.
Do you support prayer in schools and if so how much (voluntary or required?):
I support the right of students to pray individually outside of class time.
**
What is your opinion of capital punishment and which crimes should it be applied to?:**
Pointless, expensive, selecctively applied and something of an anachronism. Get rid of it.
**How much should firearms and other weapons be regulated?:
**
How should they be regulated? Heavily. How much can they be regulated absent the repeal of the Second Amendment? Probably about where they are now.
How should drugs be regulated?:
They should all be legal with a prescription. Iffy on which ones should be legal without one (though obviously marijuana).

**History
**
**Was the United States right in going to war against the secessionist Confederate States in the Civil War?:
**
Of course.
**Was the United States justified on dropping the atomic bombs on Hiroshima?:
**
Not really a “good” solution to the war, so yes.
Was colonialism or at least parts of it justified?:
If you mean settling empty land, sure. If you mean subjugating the locals and settling their land, no.
Was the American Revolution justified?:
Justified, yes. Strictly necessary, no.

[Jonathan_Chance]

General:
**
What do you identify yourself politically as?:**

Practical Libertarian. Conservative as hell of fiscal issues and liberal on social issues. I don’t like controlling others.

What political party in the United States do you identify with the most?:

Tough call. Likely Democratic because the religious right gives this Jew the shudders.

On a scale of 1 to 10 with 1 being “He should be impeached” and 10 being “One of the best Presidents” how would you rate President Barack Obama of the USA so far?:

6

What country other then your home country do you favour the most?:

UK

**Foreign Policy

Do you support the US/NATO Military Operations in Iraq?:**

No. It’s broken and they’ll have to fix it themselves over time. I do not believe that, barring something like WWII, democratic institutions can be grafted onto a society that doesn’t want them.

Do you support the US and Coalition Military Operation in Afghanistan?:

Yes, for a few more years. But the move towards self-sufficiency had better kickstart soon. If the Afgani people don’t make positive steps they can chew rocks for all I care.

Do you support any sort of intervention in Darfur (Military, humanitaritan, etc,)?:

Humanitarian, possibly. But preparations should be made to pull out completely and wash our hands of it.

What should be done with North Korea on the current nuclear crisis?:

Continue building sanctions, eventually encourage the PRC to knock them over.

What is your opinion of the Dokdo dispute between the Republic of Korea and the Empire of Japan?:

No opinion. Pissant dispute that doesn’t concern the United States

What is your opinion of NATO and should it expand across Europe?:

Well, the name needs to be changed. But an overarching alliance of liberal democratic states with the goal of mutual defense is a good idea. But I think the others should step up a bit more. Brussels is nice, though.

What should be done about Zimbabwe?:

I don’t favor intervention at all. It’s their problem, not ours. Though intervening in Iraq creates the precedent that we will do so when convenient or to our purposes.

What should be done about the Mexican Drug Wars and should the US and other countries intervene?:

Not without invitation. Though I’d step up enforcement efforts and sanctions at the border and in the border states. Alternately, legalization would do wonders on this one. Let the cartels try to compete with Phillip Morris or whatever they’re calling themselves now.

Do you support the military actions against pirates in Somalia and do you think more action should be taken?:

Yes, the safe navigation of the seas is essential to trade and communication. If anything, I’d be much more hawkish on sinking and killing those involved in piracy.

**Economy

Should there be Universal Health Care or if there is in your nation do you support it?:**

Yes. UHC should be implemented. The system that has grown in the states is reaching the point where it is actively hampering the development of the nation.

How should taxes be organized?:

Taxes should be presented as being necessary to cover government expenses. I find myself favoring (these days) a progressive system combined with national sales tax. Note: I’d apply the sales tax to ALL purchases including grocery stores, homes, stocks and bonds, whatever. You buy it, you’re taxed on it. Too many of the NST guys assume the big things they’d like to buy would be exempt. I see little reason this should be so.
**
How should the recession be ended?**

I believe there’s little to be done except to let the weakness work its way through the system. Raise unemployment and welfare (though I favor workfare) and get through it.

Do you support the US Government’s Economic Stimulus Plan?:

To a certain extent. Though I’d have likely let some of the big boys fail and sent support to mid-range firms that demonstrated better management and a desire to grow. I don’t believe in ‘too big to fail’.

Should the automobile companies be bailed out by the US government?:

Possibly. I can see the rationale involved but I am also concerned that they’ll learn little and repeat the same mistakes. In any event I’d have canned senior management and made room for new blood.

Is the minimum wage sufficent or not?:

Really impossible to say. I think a minimum wage is a good idea but there are problems with enforcement and downstream impacts.
**
Do you support NAFTA?:**

Only sort of. I support free trade but not if other things aren’t equalized. I see little reason to support free trade if we’re just supporting brutal working conditions outside our borders. I’d open free trade based on other nations willingness to adopt safety regulations and employee protections.

**Social/Moral

Do you support abortion and what restrictions should be placed on it?:**

I do. It’s one of those ‘I don’t like controlling others’ things.

Do you support gay marriage or civil unions or domestic partnerships?:

Gay marriage seems fine to me. It doesn’t threaten or otherwise impact my own marriage and don’t see a reason to limit other couples ability to marry.

Do you think Creationism or Intelligent Design should or should not be taught in school?:

No. Science is what it is. Show me some evidence other than ‘God did it’ and I’ll consider it.

Do you think broadcasting, publishing etc. should be regulated for violence, profanity, sexuality etc.?:

No. I can vote with my feet (and those of my kids). But I haven’t watched television regularly since the early 90s. Every time I do I get offended by the content, but mostly for stupidity reasons. There are certainly things that I want to filter for my kids (two girls, 9 and 5) but I do that by not watching.

How do you think birth control should be regulated?:

Prescription. Possibly with parental involvement for minors. Kid’s gonna bang, best get used to it and plan for it.
**
Do you support prayer in schools and if so how much (voluntary or required?):**

People can pray on their own. Public schools should stay out of it. Private schools can do what they like if they take no taxpayer money.

What is your opinion of capital punishment and which crimes should it be applied to?:

I oppose the death penalty for its finality and the history of convictions later proven false. Better to err on the side of caution than execute an innocent man.
**
How much should firearms and other weapons be regulated?:**

Though I, at times, question the wisdom of it the second amendment has always clearly indicated to me that private ownership of deadly weapons is permitted.

How should drugs be regulated?:

I’m a legalization guy for a number of reasons. At a minimum society as a whole appears to approve of them. The number of drug cases I see as a newspaperman indicates that a strong minority of the population in my area are doing some form of illegal drugs in any given year. Also, I prefer consistency. If scotch is legal there’s little excuse for any drug to be illegal. I dislike accidents of history.

**History

Was the United States right in going to war against the secessionist Confederate States in the Civil War?:**

Settled question. Though I favor peaceful secession of states from the union. When the south wanted to unilaterally secede they violated the terms of the constitution.
**
Was the United States justified on dropping the atomic bombs on Hiroshima?:**

Yes. It ended the war quickly and provided an announcement in RealPolitik terms of the capabilities of the United States.

Was colonialism or at least parts of it justified?:

Not really. It was a blatant power grab and subjugated native peoples. I favor leading by example, not by force.

Was the American Revolution justified?:

Yes. The choice of the people to decide they’re own form of government cannot be overstated.

[HeyHomie]

General:

What do you identify yourself politically as?:

Republican with strongly Liertarian leanings.

What political party in the United States do you identify with the most?:

Republican Party

On a scale of 1 to 10 with 1 being “He should be impeached” and 10 being “One of the best Presidents” how would you rate President Barack Obama of the USA so far?:

2

What country other then your home country do you favour the most?:

I don’t know how to answer this. I’ve been to several other countries, but if I were exiled or something and had to leave the US I’d probably choose Mexico. It has the best climate of all the places I’ve been to, and I speak the language (more or less).

Foreign Policy

Do you support the US/NATO Military Operations in Iraq?:

Not really.

Do you support the US and Coalition Military Operation in Afghanistan?:

Yes

Do you support any sort of intervention in Darfur (Military, humanitaritan, etc,)?:

I don’t know enough about the situation to have an educated opinion on the matter.

What should be done with North Korea on the current nuclear crisis?:

Gut reaction: Well-placed nuclear missile strikes. Reasoned reaction: encourage China, Taiwan, Japan and South Korea to come up with a “forceful” solution.

What is your opinion of the Dokdo dispute between the Republic of Korea and the Empire of Japan?:

I know absolutely nothing about this situation.

What is your opinion of NATO and should it expand across Europe?:

I’m not really sure what NATO’s mission is.

What should be done about Zimbabwe?:

Hell if I know.

What should be done about the Mexican Drug Wars and should the US and other countries intervene?:

Full legalization. Failing that, legalization of marijuana, at the very least.

Do you support the military actions against pirates in Somalia and do you think more action should be taken?:

Yes. I think all of the nations who send ships through there should send a few well-armed battleships.

Economy

Should there be Universal Health Care or if there is in your nation do you support it?:

Depends as long as it doesn’t cause long lines and waits which have caused Canadians to come over to the US.

How should taxes be organized?:

I’m not very educated about economic matters, so I may be talking out of my ass here, but: I think a national sales tax isn’t a half-bad idea.

How should the recession be ended?

I don’t really know. I’m tempted to say “ride it out, these things come and go.”

Do you support the US Government’s Economic Stimulus Plan?:

Yes although I’m afraid it may too much the current plan for a lot of useless stuff.

Should the automobile companies be bailed out by the US government?:

No. If Detroit won’t make the vehicles Americans want to buy, fuck 'em. There’s a reason I bought a Toyota Yaris, Detroit: because there weren’t any similar (read: small, fuel-efficient) American cars in my price range.

Is the minimum wage sufficent or not?:

Probably not, but I don’t know how to solve this problem. I fear that raising it would be bad for employers.

Do you support NAFTA?:

Yes.

Social/Moral

Do you support abortion and what restrictions should be placed on it?:

No I don’t, but I don’t think it should be illegal either.

Do you support gay marriage or civil unions or domestic partnerships?:

I fully support civil unions, I more-or-less support gay marriage.

Do you think Creationism or Intelligent Design should or should not be taught in school?:

I think this decision should be left to local school boards, but if it IS taught, it needs to be taught right alongside evolution.

Do you think broadcasting, publishing etc. should be regulated for violence, profanity, sexuality etc.?:

Not really, no.

How do you think birth control should be regulated?:

For safety.

Do you support prayer in schools and if so how much (voluntary or required?):

I believe that ALL schools should be private, whether they’re church-sponsored or a for-profit corporation, or some other system. To this end, each school can make its own decisions about whether or not prayer (or creationism, or intelligent design, or evolution) will be a part of a student’s day, and parents can send their kids to the school of their choice, accordingly.

What is your opinion of capital punishment and which crimes should it be applied to?:

Yes, but only for murder. And possibly forcible rape (not statutory rape) of a child.

How much should firearms and other weapons be regulated?:

Slightly less than where it is now.

How should drugs be regulated?:

I support full legalization of all drugs, with tight government controls to ensure quality. Addicts can get their drugs at clinics, safely (relatively, of course) and cheaply (relatively, of course). Marijuana should be a regular commodity (like tobacco or alcohol), restricted accordingly, and taxed heavily (and taxes from marijuana can be used to help fund clinics).

History

Was the United States right in going to war against the secessionist Confederate States in the Civil War?:

Inasmuch as it put an end to slavery, yes. As to forcibly preventing states from seceding, I’m of two minds. One mind says “absolutely! Preserve the Union!” Another mind believes that a state should theoretically have the power to secede.

Was the United States justified on dropping the atomic bombs on Hiroshima?:

Yes it ended World War 2 saving both many Japanese and American lives.

Was colonialism or at least parts of it justified?:

Probably not. I don’t know enough to have an informed opinion.

Was the American Revolution justified?:

I’m not sure I understand this question. With the implication being that without it we would sill be a colony of Great Britain, then I would say Hell Yeah it was justified! America! Fuck yeah! Or is there something about this question that I’m missing?

[Quartz]

General:

What do you identify yourself politically as?:

Independent

What political party in the United States do you identify with the most?:

I don’t.

On a scale of 1 to 10 with 1 being “He should be impeached” and 10 being “One of the best Presidents” how would you rate President Barack Obama of the USA so far?:

Too early to tell.

What country other then your home country do you favour the most?:

Canada.

Foreign Policy

Do you support the US/NATO Military Operations in Iraq?:

No.

Do you support the US and Coalition Military Operation in Afghanistan?:

No.

Do you support any sort of intervention in Darfur (Military, humanitaritan, etc,)?:

No.

**What should be done with North Korea on the current nuclear crisis?:
**

We should be prepared to used nuclear weapons.

**What is your opinion of the Dokdo dispute between the Republic of Korea and the Empire of Japan?:
**

not worked up either way.
**What is your opinion of NATO and should it expand across Europe?:
**

The EU will make it irrelevant.
**What should be done about Zimbabwe?:
**

Leave well alone. No aid, no nothing. Let the Zimbabweans sort themselves out. Extend this to the whole of Africa.

What should be done about the Mexican Drug Wars and should the US and other countries intervene?:

Legalise drugs.

Do you support the military actions against pirates in Somalia and do you think more action should be taken?:

Kill them all

Economy

Should there be Universal Health Care or if there is in your nation do you support it?:

Yes.

**How should taxes be organized?:
**

Tax only on profit. Flat rates, larger allowances.

How should the recession be ended?

Don’t know.

Do you support the US Government’s Economic Stimulus Plan?:

Yes although I’m afraid it may too much the current plan for a lot of useless stuff.

Should the automobile companies be bailed out by the US government?:

Yes.

**Is the minimum wage sufficent or not?:
**

Yes.

Do you support NAFTA?:

Free trade is good.

Social/Moral

Do you support abortion and what restrictions should be placed on it?:

Yes. I’d rather women had abortions in hospitals than round the corner with a coat-hanger.

Do you support gay marriage or civil unions or domestic partnerships?:

Yes.

Do you think Creationism or Intelligent Design should or should not be taught in school?:

Should not be taught.

Do you think broadcasting, publishing etc. should be regulated for violence, profanity, sexuality etc.?:

Violence restrictions are fine where it’s right now, profanity should have no regulations, sexuality might need a few more minor restrictions.

How do you think birth control should be regulated?:

Not restricted.

Do you support prayer in schools and if so how much (voluntary or required?):

Leave it up to the school.

What is your opinion of capital punishment and which crimes should it be applied to?:

No. Once the accused is in the custody of the state, they should be safe.

How much should firearms and other weapons be regulated?:

No private armies. If you can afford to buy and maintain a weapon, then why not?

How should drugs be regulated?:

Not.

History

Was the United States right in going to war against the secessionist Confederate States in the Civil War?:

No idea.

Was the United States justified on dropping the atomic bombs on Hiroshima?:

Yes.

Was colonialism or at least parts of it justified?:

It worked at the time.

Was the American Revolution justified?:

No idea.

[Reply]

General:

What do you identify yourself politically as?:
I think the only proper descriptor would be “ignorant and apathetic”.

What political party in the United States do you identify with the most?:
Green.

On a scale of 1 to 10 with 1 being “He should be impeached” and 10 being “One of the best Presidents” how would you rate President Barack Obama of the USA so far?:
I have been away from civilization for a few months and have not kept pace with his decisions. I did like that he closed Guantanamo though, if only for symbolic reasons.

What country other then your home country do you favour the most?:
France

Foreign Policy

Do you support the US/NATO Military Operations in Iraq?:
Now, yes. I don’t believe the war should’ve been started, but we shouldn’t leave it in its current state.

Do you support the US and Coalition Military Operation in Afghanistan?:
Same as above.

Do you support any sort of intervention in Darfur (Military, humanitaritan, etc,)?:
I’m not sure what we’re doing there, if anything. I’d like to see the situation improved, but I have no idea what could be done.

**What should be done with North Korea on the current nuclear crisis?:
**
Dunno. Nuke 'em first. Or frame them for an act of terrorism and then nuke 'em.
**What is your opinion of the Dokdo dispute between the Republic of Korea and the Empire of Japan?:
**Never heard of it.

**What is your opinion of NATO and should it expand across Europe?:
**US puppet. No.

**What should be done about Zimbabwe?:
**Don’t know what’s going on there.

**What should be done about the Mexican Drug Wars and should the US and other countries intervene?:
**Legalize drugs here and have outproduce it into irrelevance.

Do you support the military actions against pirates in Somalia and do you think more action should be taken?:
Yes and yes.
**
Economy**

Should there be Universal Health Care or if there is in your nation do you support it?:
Yes.

**How should taxes be organized?:
**Sliding scale on an exponential curve.

How should the recession be ended?
Excessive taxes on the excessively rich. Drastic cutback in unnecessary foreign police actions. Heavy investment in educational infrastructure to fuel future economic growth.

Do you support the US Government’s Economic Stimulus Plan?:
Don’t really understand how it works.

Should the automobile companies be bailed out by the US government?:
See above.
**Is the minimum wage sufficent or not?:
**Yeah, right.

Do you support NAFTA?:

Only until a better overall socioeconomic structure can be imagined and implemented.

Social/Moral

Do you support abortion and what restrictions should be placed on it?:
Absolutely. Postnatal abortions should be allowed up to an age of one or two years as long as both parents consent. There are enough people as it is.

Do you support gay marriage or civil unions or domestic partnerships?:

Strong yes to gay marriage. Alternatively, complete elimination of marriage as a legal arrangement and civil unions for all; leave marriage for religion.

Do you think Creationism or Intelligent Design should or should not be taught in school?:
Should definitely be taught alongside Greek and Egyptian mythology or comparative religions.
Do you think broadcasting, publishing etc. should be regulated for violence, profanity, sexuality etc.?:
No.
How do you think birth control should be regulated?:
A complete and thorough education on all available methods and their consequences. Birth control devices made widely available.
Do you support prayer in schools and if so how much (voluntary or required?):
Individuals should be free to do as they please if they do not harm others or interfere with the school’s operation. The school itself should not be sponsoring any religion over another.
**
What is your opinion of capital punishment and which crimes should it be applied to?:**
Polarize criminality: Many trivial crimes should be eliminated or downgraded, and more serious crimes should not result in life in prison but immediate execution.

**How much should firearms and other weapons be regulated?:
**I don’t know.

How should drugs be regulated?:
As alcohol and tobacco.

**History
**
**Was the United States right in going to war against the secessionist Confederate States in the Civil War?:
**Not sure.

**Was the United States justified on dropping the atomic bombs on Hiroshima?:
**Eventually. Wish we could’ve provided more demonstrations using uninhabited or military targets.

Was colonialism or at least parts of it justified?:
To the extent necessary for survival, I think it’s human nature. As a tool of greed, no.

**Was the American Revolution justified?:
**I think so.

[Qin_Shi_Huangdi]

@Reply

Do you support abortion and what restrictions should be placed on it?:
Absolutely. Postnatal abortions should be allowed up to an age of one or two years as long as both parents consent. There are enough people as it is.

WTF man?!

[Really_Not_All_That_Bright]

That’s a joke.

I think.

[Qin_Shi_Huangdi]

@Really_Not_All_That_Bright

That’s a joke.

I think.

No it isn’t. I don’t think any of his replies were meant to be funny, after all the other are quite serious.

[TWDuke]

Natural-born U.S. citizen, by the way.
General:
What do you identify yourself politically as?:
Liberal, by local standards. Globally, I might be moderate or even conservative.
What political party in the United States do you identify with the most?:
Democratic
On a scale of 1 to 10 with 1 being “He should be impeached” and 10 being “One of the best Presidents” how would you rate President Barack Obama of the USA so far?:
Maybe a 6.5 so far. I expect him to improve by the end of his first term, but it could go either way.
What country other then your home country do you favour the most?:
U.K., I suppose, for cultural reasons. They also seem to have a relatively sane approach to government.
Foreign Policy
Do you support the US/NATO Military Operations in Iraq?:
I wish we’d never started and I think we need to make a quick and orderly exit. Of course quick and orderly may be impossible, which is part of the “wish we’d never started.”
Do you support the US and Coalition Military Operation in Afghanistan?:
I think are actions in going in were justifiable. I’d like to be clearer on what our ultimate goal is - or at least more confident that someone else is.
Do you support any sort of intervention in Darfur (Military, humanitaritan, etc,)?:
Humanitarian, absolutely. Militarily - no, other than protecting aid workers. The idea of the calvary charging in and fixing everything has enormous appeal, but rarely works.
What should be done with North Korea on the current nuclear crisis?:
Firm, consistent diplomacy. I’ll leave the details up to the professionals.
What is your opinion of the Dokdo dispute between the Republic of Korea and the Empire of Japan?:
Flip a coin. Is this a trick to get us to read about an international squabble that’s of no particular interest to 99.9 percent of us?
What is your opinion of NATO and should it expand across Europe?:
I don’t think NATO knows what its opinion of NATO is. I’m all for international organizations as long as they have a clearly defined purpose that makes sense today, not 60 years ago, protects or enhances personal liberty and global peace. Howzat?
What should be done about Zimbabwe?:
Diplomatic and economic pressure. Again, we can’t invade and overthrow every government we don’t like.
What should be done about the Mexican Drug Wars and should the US and other countries intervene?:
Diplomatic and economic… OK, I think we’re starting to repeat ourselves here.Do you support the military actions against pirates in Somalia and do you think more action should be taken?:
Hey, now we’re talking about something that actually directly affects our legitimate interests, so yes, I support military action, but let’s be careful. And we should *support *a stable government, not prop one up. It can be a nice distinction, but regimes that are seen as American puppets tend not to do well in the long run.
Economy
**Should there be Universal Health Care or if there is in your nation do you support it?:**God yes. It’s a national disgrace that even people who pay for insurance can become destitute because of one medical emergency. (I refuse to even talk about the insured vs. the uninsured. It’s “those who think they’re insured” vs. “those who know they’re not.” Insurance that leaves you bankrupt isn’t really insurance.
How should taxes be organized?:
I’m all for greatly simplifying the income tax code as much as possible. That does not mean a regressive flat, but it’s ridiculous that the average American needs professional help to comply with the tax law.
How should the recession be ended?
I think we are on the road to recovery. We should be looking at how to prepare for and soften the next recession.
Do you support the US Government’s Economic Stimulus Plan?:
I think it should have been bigger, but some stimulus is better than none.
Should the automobile companies be bailed out by the US government?:
I’m content with the way this is being handled so far.
Is the minimum wage sufficent or not?:
Not without a public healthcare option, it’s not.
Do you support NAFTA?:
In principle I support free trade, but only with safeguards for workers and the environment. Which in practice sounds like protectionism. Oh well.
Social/Moral
Do you support abortion and what restrictions should be placed on it?:
The whole idea of abortion makes me feel queasy, but not as queasy as telling a woman she must give birth.
Do you support gay marriage or civil unions or domestic partnerships?:
If marriage is so sacred, get the government out of it. Let churches (and other nongovermental organizations that are interested) marry whoever they want to, and let these marriages have no legal standing whatsoever. Let the state register domestic partnerships between consenting adults without prying into their sex lives. Of course that will never happen, because it’s not about keeping marriage sacred, it’s about punishing the gays.
**Do you think Creationism or Intelligent Design should or should not be taught in school?:Schools should not be required to teach religion until churches are required to teach science.
Do you think broadcasting, publishing etc. should be regulated for violence, profanity, sexuality etc.?:
Broadcasting should have some regulation, although I don’t think we need to be protected from nipples. No prior restraint on publishing, although publishers can be held responsible for explicit and flagrant calls for violence.
How do you think birth control should be regulated?:
Not at all. Well, maybe a little. Somewhere between not at all and a little. Obviously adults should have free and unfettered access.
Do you support prayer in schools and if so how much (voluntary or required?):
Public schools still have recesses and lunch periods, right? Class time should be devoted to classwork.
What is your opinion of capital punishment and which crimes should it be applied to?:
If confinement in a super max prison is as horrible as I often hear it is, perhaps death should be offered as an option, but I do not feel the state should be in the practice of executing its citizens.
**How much should firearms and other weapons be regulated?:
**
No automatic weapons in private hands, no concealed weapons except in extraordinary circumstances.
How should drugs be regulated?:
Marijuana should use by adults should be completely legal. Sales should be taxed, but not to a punitive extent. Other drugs should be considered on a case-by-case basis.
History
**Was the United States right in going to war against the secessionist Confederate States in the Civil War?:**Actually, the secessionist states went to war against the republic. And they were in the wrong.
Was the United States justified on dropping the atomic bombs on Hiroshima?:
Yes. It was horrific, but so is conventional warfare.
Was colonialism or at least parts of it justified?:
Exploration and settlement, yes. Slavery and genocide, no. In practice, they tend to get tangled up.
Was the American Revolution justified?:
Yes.

[Reply]

@Curtis LeMay

No it isn’t. I don’t think any of his replies were meant to be funny, after all the other are quite serious.

75% serious. The exact age cutoff can be adjusted.

Infanticide is not unheard of in history and remains practiced today in certain cultures. Our modern (over-, I would say) appreciation of the individual human life is unwarranted and detrimental to our overall effectiveness as a species, contributing to a lower average living standard among all humans.

I think babies in particular are worthless to society except as raw potential (and thus readily replaceable), possessing no ability to produce useful thought or works. And really, in a mostly dog-eat-dog, every-man-for-himself world, it’s best to be raised by parents who are willing to remain devoted and committed. Babies born to unwilling or unready parents face a life of unnecessary hardship that often strain social programs. Just get rid of the unwanted ones before they consume too much; in a few minutes a dozen more will be born to eager parents elsewhere anyway.

Yes, we might lose the next Einstein. Or we might prevent the next Hitler. Either way, we can use the diverted resources to better help people who have more of a chance. Call it quality-of-life triage.

I should, just to clarify my overall view, take this moment to say that my ideal vision of society would be some sort of Spartan-Borg hybrid democratic collective of strong and fit peers operating on little to no individual will. The occasional collateral damage would be acceptable if it’s estimated to provide an overall boon to the society.

[Really_Not_All_That_Bright]

So we ought to be executing the disabled, then?

[Cisco]

@Reply

75% serious. The exact age cutoff can be adjusted.

Infanticide is not unheard of in history and remains practiced today in certain cultures. Our modern (over-, I would say) appreciation of the individual human life is unwarranted and detrimental to our overall effectiveness as a species, contributing to a lower average living standard among all humans.

I think babies in particular are worthless to society except as raw potential (and thus readily replaceable), possessing no ability to produce useful thought or works. And really, in a mostly dog-eat-dog, every-man-for-himself world, it’s best to be raised by parents who are willing to remain devoted and committed. Babies born to unwilling or unready parents face a life of unnecessary hardship that often strain social programs. Just get rid of the unwanted ones before they consume too much; in a few minutes a dozen more will be born to eager parents elsewhere anyway.

Yes, we might lose the next Einstein. Or we might prevent the next Hitler. Either way, we can use the diverted resources to better help people who have more of a chance. Call it quality-of-life triage.

I should, just to clarify my overall view, take this moment to say that my ideal vision of society would be some sort of Spartan-Borg hybrid democratic collective of strong and fit peers operating on little to no individual will. The occasional collateral damage would be acceptable if it’s estimated to provide an overall boon to the society.

:rolleyes: Yawn. I’m not going to pretend to be shocked like the next poster probably will, but I just want to point out that the parents could’ve aborted the kid in the first trimester, or given it to someone who wanted it. I cannot think of any reason to carry a baby to full term, birth it, and then kill it. You’re either (a) dicking around with us, (b) a pro-lifer trying to make a point, or (c) have about 5 seconds total lifetime thought invested in the issue.

[Reply]

That’d be my suggestion, unless they can demonstrate some sort of return-on-investment to society early enough.

[Freddy_the_Pig]

Jeez, this is a lot of questions. But, I’m bored at work today.
What do you identify yourself politically as?:
Libertarian Conservative
What political party in the United States do you identify with the most?:
Libertarian Party
On a scale of 1 to 10 with 1 being “He should be impeached” and 10 being “One of the best Presidents” how would you rate President Barack Obama of the USA so far?:
2
What country other then your home country do you favour the most?:
Australia, just because I think they’re cool.
Do you support the US/NATO Military Operations in Iraq?:
No.
Do you support the US and Coalition Military Operation in Afghanistan?:
Yes
Do you support any sort of intervention in Darfur (Military, humanitaritan, etc,)?
No.
What should be done with North Korea on the current nuclear crisis?:
Existing sanctions are all that can be done. If North Korea goes nuclear anyway, we will have to rely on conventional nuclear deterrence.
What is your opinion of the Dokdo dispute between the Republic of Korea and the Empire of Japan?:
I know nothing about it.
What is your opinion of NATO and should it expand across Europe?:
We should withdraw from NATO. It has served its purpose.
What should be done about Zimbabwe?:
Nothing, since it is not a threat to the United States.
What should be done about the Mexican Drug Wars and should the US and other countries intervene?:
We should legalize drugs, which will move control of the traffic into the hands of honest business persons rather than drug lords.
Do you support the military actions against pirates in Somalia and do you think more action should be taken?:
Yes to the first; I would need to see specific proposals for further action.
Should there be Universal Health Care or if there is in your nation do you support it?:
People should be responsible for securing their own health care. Private charity should assist those who cannot afford to do so.
How should taxes be organized?:
I don’t much care. I’m more interested in the level of taxation rather than exactly how it is obtained. The level now is too high.
How should the recession be ended?
The wording of the question presupposes that some specific action by some (government?) body can end the recession, which I don’t believe to be true.
Do you support the US Government’s Economic Stimulus Plan?:
No.
Should the automobile companies be bailed out by the US government?:
No.
Is the minimum wage sufficent or not?:
There should be no minimum wage. Nobody should be forbidden to sell their labor at any price.
Do you support NAFTA?:
Yes.
Do you support abortion and what restrictions should be placed on it?:
I support legal access to first-trimester abortions.
Do you support gay marriage or civil unions or domestic partnerships?:
Yes.
Do you think Creationism or Intelligent Design should or should not be taught in school?:
Private chools may teach what they wish. Government-run schools should not teach creationism or intelligent design.
Do you think broadcasting, publishing etc. should be regulated for violence, profanity, sexuality etc.?:
How do you think birth control should be regulated?:
Not at all.
Do you support prayer in schools and if so how much (voluntary or required?)
Private schools may pray when and how they wish. School authorities in government-run schools should not be encouraging nor reciting prayers.
What is your opinion of capital punishment and which crimes should it be applied to?:
I’m opposed to capital punishment.
How much should firearms and other weapons be regulated?:
Very little.
How should drugs be regulated?:
Recreational drugs should be legal.
Was the United States right in going to war against the secessionist Confederate States in the Civil War?:
Yes.
Was the United States justified on dropping the atomic bombs on Hiroshima?:
Yes, but we should have waited a few days to see if the Soviet declaration of war would have induced Japan to surrender.
Was colonialism or at least parts of it justified?:
No, but in some times and places much good came out of it.
Was the American Revolution justified?:
Yes.

[Reply]

@Cisco

:rolleyes: Yawn. I’m not going to pretend to be shocked like the next poster probably will, but I just want to point out that the parents could’ve aborted the kid in the first trimester, or given it to someone who wanted it. I cannot think of any reason to carry a baby to full term, birth it, and then kill it. You’re either (a) dicking around with us, (b) a pro-lifer trying to make a point, or (c) have about 5 seconds total lifetime thought invested in the issue.

I’m not suggesting that parents should deliberately wait for the full term – that would be even more a waste of resources, not to mention more emotional trauma. But regret does happen, and it should not be too late simply because the kid is out. If someone else wants it, let them take it. If a kid is so unpopular that nobody wants to adopt him or her, we should do what some animal shelters do.

People die everywhere all the time from all sorts of causes. We get over it and move on. This is only a matter of degree.

I’m not dicking around, but I can certainly accept the possibility that I haven’t put enough thought into this. If you care to elaborate on the why, please feel free.

[Der_Trihs]

@Reply

And really, in a mostly dog-eat-dog, every-man-for-himself world, it’s best to be raised by parents who are willing to remain devoted and committed.

But the world isn’t mostly like that, despite the determination of many on the Right that it should be. Civilization ( and most of the world population ) wouldn’t last a year if it was; the war of all against all wouldn’t be likely to leave anything but ruins behind.