So much of the handwringing and bedwetting over the whole Henry Gates affair totally misses the point, to wit, that free taxpaying citizens should not be required to genuflect to law enforcement, no matter the race of any of those involved.
My Dad often, and wisely, advised "never argue with a man with a gun." While this is doubtless good advice, as a matter of public policy enforced on pain of arrest and detainment, it leaves much to be desired. Nevermind that no charges were ultimately filed in this particular case: merely detaining without intent to file charges is its own significant abuse of power.
I'll part ways with many law-and-order conservatives on this one, and point out this essay as neatly encapsulating what I think is the actual core issue here.
My Dad often, and wisely, advised "never argue with a man with a gun." While this is doubtless good advice, as a matter of public policy enforced on pain of arrest and detainment, it leaves much to be desired. Nevermind that no charges were ultimately filed in this particular case: merely detaining without intent to file charges is its own significant abuse of power.
I'll part ways with many law-and-order conservatives on this one, and point out this essay as neatly encapsulating what I think is the actual core issue here.
