02-24-2007, 10:36 AM
Democracy v. a Police State. I choose Democracy and free speech. In a free society people go too far sometimes --and then usually regret it. As a wise judge once said, free speech doesn't mean you can yell "fire" in a crowded theatre when there is no fire. It is also not wise to "flame" someone. However, I prefer the occasional flame, nonesense, strong but unfounded opinions to sterility, censorship and the chill that comes when you have to watch every word you say lest someone takes those words from you.
With censorship and totalatarianism comes order, but I think we have it right here. Self-policing --and apologies if necessary--are better than sending conversations that turn sour down the memory hole. I understand the other point of view, but I have to say, one thing that drew me to Puna was thise forum. It is a wild and woolly bunch --liberals, conservatives, those who wouldn't change a hair on Hawaii's head, and those who want to shave her bald and send her to rehab.
It's all good. And it is all very, very Puna.
With censorship and totalatarianism comes order, but I think we have it right here. Self-policing --and apologies if necessary--are better than sending conversations that turn sour down the memory hole. I understand the other point of view, but I have to say, one thing that drew me to Puna was thise forum. It is a wild and woolly bunch --liberals, conservatives, those who wouldn't change a hair on Hawaii's head, and those who want to shave her bald and send her to rehab.
It's all good. And it is all very, very Puna.