pabloseb
(510 posts)
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Fri Mar-04-05 04:25 PM
Original message |
What is your position regarding immoral laws? |
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In the debate about illegal immigration the phrase "they're breaking the law, why is there even a discussion" comes up all the time.
I think that's a very poor argument for progressive people.
Does that mean we shouldn't fight the death penalty (those of us who are against it) because "it's the law, so why are we even discussing it?" ?
Does that mean people should refrain from smoking marijuana until it's allowed legally because "it's the law, so why are we even discussing it" ?
Does that mean that we should just accept the new bankruptcy law because, now, "it's the law, so why are we even discussing it" ?
"Why is there even a discussion about prostitution in the states where it's illegal?"
As you can see, the list of examples can go on and on and on. And with many current topics, no need to refer to the "blacks are 3/5 people issue".
Now, you can certainly argue that the current law regarding illegal immigration is morally and politically correct and therefore should be supported and enforced.
A debate at that level would be worth of progressives.
But just saying "it's the law" is by its very definition a most conservative position.
Although some DUers support the death penalty and others don't, when the issue is debated noone just says "it's the law, killers should just accept it period". Everybody believes it makes sense to at least debate a more benign law for killers. Why should we hold illegal immigrants to a higher standard?
On the other hand, I realize that debating (and being willing to break) each and every law would make social life quite difficult.
So what is your possition? When should we question a law? When (if ever) should we support breaking a law? Are there any instances when "it's the law" can be the final answer to an argument?
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Cleita
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Fri Mar-04-05 04:28 PM
Response to Original message |
1. I have found the argument, |
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"they are breaking the law" only seems to apply to Hispanic illegals not European ones. I have always considered those who say this racist. Just my opinion.
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MountainLaurel
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Fri Mar-04-05 04:37 PM
Response to Reply #1 |
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I remember reading that only about half of illegal immigrants are coming up from Latin America crossing the border. The rest (from the remainder of the planet) came in legally but stayed after their visas expired.
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pabloseb
(510 posts)
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Fri Mar-04-05 04:41 PM
Response to Reply #3 |
5. White immigrants also face less risk of deportation |
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Because of racial profiling, Mexicans are more likely to be randomly stopped by police, trigging a deportation procedure.
And I'm sure whites would have more chances to apply for legal residence or benefit from an amnesty.
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wtbymark
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Fri Mar-04-05 04:32 PM
Response to Original message |
2. IMO- all laws should be based on Mill's 'Harm Policy' |
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period.
That is an act that creates harm to another, physically, mentally or financially. And any act that infringes on another's right to be at liberty.
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pabloseb
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Fri Mar-04-05 04:39 PM
Response to Reply #2 |
4. I agree with the principle, but |
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there are many cases where it may conflict with itself. Jailing a criminal would go against the principle, but so would leting him/her free.
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Wed May 08th 2024, 03:40 PM
Response to Original message |