From: utzoo!decvax!harpo!npoiv!alice!rabbit!jj
Newsgroups: net.auto
Title: Re: one more on belts
Article-I.D.: rabbit.720
Posted: Fri Aug 20 15:38:36 1982
Received: Sat Aug 21 05:17:51 1982
References: utzoo.2391 watmath.3340

	The recent comment that seatbelts keep the driver in
the drivers seat is a very good point.  It is (undenyably) true,
from a simple physical viewpoint, and is also backed
by a number of statistical studies.  As far as I can see,
that makes is a good arguement against both automatic seatbelts 
(which do not fit as tightly) and airbags, which hold you down
AFTER you blow it.

	Regarding the right to make mistakes:
	The making of mistakes is an essential part of learning
behavior.  (Ask any psychologist)
	The government is trying to remove as much of the incentive,
and method, of learning to aid one's self and defend one's self
as they can.(I KNOW it's not deliberate, so DON'T mail me!)
Examples are:
	1). Mandatory seat belts.
	2). Mandatory air bags.
	3). Lawn mower regulations

I could name a few more, but the point is made.

I hope that this discussion will center for a while on ways to
EDUCATE people into taking reasonable actions, instead of forcing 
"reasonable" actions upon them.

I would also like to  raise the question of
PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY.  AS far as I can see, the goal of
many regulations is to release the consumer from responsibility
for their own actions, regardless of how reasonable or stupid.
I would support legislation that encourages people to make decisions that
will aid their own health, safety, and happiness.  Forcing someone to
use a product does none of these, however, forcing responsibility
on those who CHOOSE to assume risks only affects those who
make that choice, and leaves the reasonable citizen free to
take whatever action he/she wishes.
An integral part of such legislation, which I must mention to
preclude arguement, is that part of the legislation that penalizes
IN THE EXTREME those who fail in contracted obligations 
for reasons under their control(thus precluding fraud, for example.)

rabbit!jj

P.S. I apoligize for the disconnected prose, I am not completely awake today.