Re: Cryin'

[toddpw@ugcs.caltech.edu (Todd P. Whitesel)]

Rubywand <rubywand@swbell.net> writes:

>     Granted, there have, for years, been those who seek to wreck Apple
>II archive sites and take away user access to old Apple II software.
>Their attack, destroy, and rob tactics would, ideally, seem fit the
>traditional definition of "pirate".

Except that they primarily attack sites which appear to have broken the
law first. Granted they could have been more patient with the lawbreakers,
but it's become obvious that some people seem to think that "whatever makes
the most sense is right" when that is not in fact how the law operates --
the definition of 'most sense' being somewhat subjective. The law is merely
our best attempt to arrive at something objectively described which society
agrees shall be enforced until such time as the law is changed. But once
enacted it is indeed the law.

So perhaps 'those' are vigilantes, but certainly not pirates.

>     Unfortunately, there are few clashes with more potential for name
>calling and bitterness than those between persons at Level 4 and persons
>at Level 5 or higher. Each side, remember, is convinced of the rightness
>and goodness of its position. So, to some extent, "_Knowing_" right from
>wrong merely fuels the flames.

Excellent summary. Remember, however, that being aware of the phenomenon
does not make you immune to it. It applies to you, me, Nathan, and anyone
else who has expressed strong opinions here. I hope we can all at least
agree on this much!

Todd Whitesel
toddpw @ ugcs.caltech.edu