john.m.lake wrote:Cate: Yes, you're absolutely right - a very tricky area.
So just let me wrap my head around this - if the majority of people in a country were to feel that seeing boobs was infringing on their right not to see boobs then it might, possibly, be an acceptable reason to set aside the Bill of Rights (the Civil Liberties) of the minority - so favour would go to the majority.
The women should keep themselves covered. (that sounds a bit familiar)
I understand it's not about boobs. It's about what the populace has decided is 'decent' and what they have decided is 'indecent'.
...So if the majority of people in a country were to think a woman's uncovered hair was indecent ...
...So if the majority of people in a country were to think a woman's uncovered face was indecent....
...So what if the majority of people in a country were to think ......,,,,, .... is that really so different?
I guess the bottom line is - You can't make everyone happy. I think in the case you are making - there is a difference. I see a clear distinction between being forced to wear a Burka with only your eyes allowed to show and being forced to keep your top on in public. It might not reach the heights that you would like - but - There is an expansion of consciousness, an expansion of freedom there.
Well John - I agree one is much more extreme example of rights and freedoms of some individuals being removed for the comfort sake of others - A Mother on a train should have the right to feed her baby, a baby should have the right to eat when he chooses a fellow passenger should have the right to turn his/her head if offended by eating babies. Jeff should have the right to marry James. I just think it's a bit much to claim to be
the ones of Freedom and Choice when really it's more of a
the ones of some Freedom and Choice.
America is what it is - as everywhere else, growing and learning. Making small mistakes and huge mistakes. Alternately helping and hurting the world. But.. the spirit of freedom and of choice and of goodness is here. I am happy that I was born here in this imperfect land, on this imperfect world. Of course there are good and bad people of all lands.. but - I believe I have grown to be a good person... and count my country as one of my teachers and thank her for helping me become who I am.
I also am glad to have been born where I was, also an imperfect land but I love it well.
Here are some of the things I like about the States;
The art, movies and music that you generate.
The vibrant mix of people who come from all around the world to become part of your country.
Your marching bands that come to our Santa parade every year – you guys rock!
Despite my argument above, you for the most part, can be who you wish to be and do what you wish to do.
the beauty of your country – mountains, deserts, the Grand Canyon, the Florida Keys – there are so many places that I would like to visit.
It’s a friendly place. When traveling through I have always met very warm and welcoming people.
American’s are generous – you give a great deal to foreign aid and respond quickly to emergencies.
Last but not least, you’re for sure our favourite neighbors – okay you’re our only neighbors but your pretty good ones.
Have a good weekend John
- okay a friendly one, just for fun but I don't think it's winnable as it's based on belief
