Why I chose the Gun.

[AtheistCrusader]

http://www.ted.com/talks/peter_van_uhm_why_i_chose_a_gun.html

I'm not entirely on-board with his rationale WRT Afghanistan (where his son was killed), but I think his case for firearms held by people who intend to do good, is well-made.

[X_Digger]

1. I've seen this talk before- very powerful. n/t

[MicaelS]

2. Very interesting, thanks for the link n/t

[TPaine7]

3. I take issue with the "state monopoly on the legitimate use of force" meme,

at least taken at literal face value.

If only the state can legitimately use force, physical self-defense by ordinary people is illegitimate.

[discntnt_irny_srcsm]

4. I have the same difficulty. n/t

[AtheistCrusader]

5. I read 'use' to mean 'initiation'.

Though I agree, even states should be constrained to use force only in self-defense.

[ileus]

6. Great link!