AH: What is your Stance on These Social Issues.

robman60

1. Religion: Do you think religion has any place in documents like the constitution (which it currently has in abundance), and the law of a country? Do you think our society should be completely secular with no references to religion in things like inauguration ceremonies etc.

2. Freedom of Speech: Do you think there should be 100% free speech even if it were seen as damaging to our country's reputation (what's left of it )

3. Censorship: Do you believe there should be any censorship of the internet or other media? This includes printing of pictures that may be seen as sensitive too.

4. Prostitution: Do you think prostitution should be legal? I'm not even sure if it's illegal here, but I presume it is. Those escort agencies are shady, though. Enlighten me please if you can.

5. Same-sex marriage/adoption: Do you think gay couples shoould be allowed marry and have equal marriage rights to heterosexual couples? Furthermore, do you think gay couples should be allowed to adopt children?

6. Abortion: Do you think abortion should be legal? Are there certain circumstances in which it should be legal? Please elaborate on when it should/shouldn't be legal in your opinion.

7. Stem-cell research: Do you favour the use of human embryos for stem cell research, which results in the destruction of the human embryo with the goal of medical cures.

8. Euthanasia: Do you think voluntary euthanasia should be allowed? How stringently should it be regulated?

9. Capital Punishment: Are you in favour of the death penalty? Elaborate on when you feel it is/isn't appropriate in your opinion.

10. Marijuana: Are you in favour of the legalisation of marijuana for all adults? Do you think it should only be allowed for medicinal purposes or do you think it should be completely outlawed.

11. Other widely-illegal drugs: For drugs such as cocaine, heroin, ecstasy etc. Do you think they should be legal or illegal?


My stances:

1. I think religion has a place in society for those who want to be religious, but I feel its inclusion in law is outdated. Having it as part of the inauguration ceremony for the president makes it somewhat of an imposed thing, rather than a voluntary thing. Religion is completely subjective and should be kept that way I think.

2. I think 100% free speech should be allowed. The country belongs to the people and people should be allowed say whatever they want.

3. I think there should be VERY minimal censorshp, but pictures of death or similarly gruesome things shouldn't be in print media. However, I don't think censorship is appropriate on the internet, as the person should be able to find pictures, however gruesome/disturbing they may seem.

4. I couldn't care less really. Personally, i wouldn't use a prostitute, but I don't think it should be illegal if someone wants to. It should be highly monitored, though, to ensure the welfare of the "workers".

5. I am in favour of same-sex marriage and equal rights for gay couples. I think adoption within same sex couples needs some research, although I can't foresee any issues with it. I'm not completely convinced about it though.

6. I am anti-abortion. I think it is one of, if not the greatest injustice in society today. I cannot even put into words how opposed I am to abortion. I feel it cheapens life hugely, targetting humans without a voice. How killing something with a beating heart, and a cry (especially if it's a late-term abortion) can be seen as just is beyond me. I think it should be criminally punishable too. In the case of rape, it's particularly tough, but I think that the mother should be encouraged to continue to term and offer the baby up for adoption once the baby is born if the mother doesn't want to keep her child. Shocking to believe that there's an abortion every second. Aklll these kids who never got a chance at life at all, I really think it's unjust.

7. I'm not in favour of stem cell research. I've read of the potential medical benefits, but I'm still against the destruction of human embryos. It's definitely one of the tougher moral issues because of the possible benefits, but I'm still opposed to it.

8. I'm indifferent. I think it's better that it isn't legal as people would consider it much more quickly I think. I wouldn't actively oppose if it were made legal, but I'm not an advocate either.

9. I'm against the death penalty. I think the eye for an eye theory is archaic and wrong. Life imprisonment makes the person really think of their crimes, even if it incurrs extra expense on the state.

10. I am pro-marijuana. I think it's ludicrous that alcohol and tobacco are perfectly legal, yet marijuana is portrayed by authorities as some sort of destroyer of lives. Legalising marijuana would also reduce funding to organised crime organisations, also helping society I guess.

11. I am against the legalisation of other drugs. I think they should be kept illegal, as although people can still get drugs quite easily from dealers, the legal availability would be bad for society I think.



So yeah, feel free to voice your own opinion. You don't have to give an opinion on all of these, just choose any you're interested in.

Sunnyisland

You should start a thread on each topic separately, It will bring your post count up :-)

sgb

That's eleven threads rolled into one

Standman

They should reduce AH to this one single thread, I think you've got it all covered there. We can all finally go home.

ballsymchugh

is humanities closed today??

RickRoll

1: Wrong
2:Wrong
3:Wrong
4:All for
5:Wrong
6:Wrong
7:Wrong
8:Wrong
9:Wrong
10:Wrong
11:Wrong

1. Religion: - no religion in official documents. you want to be religious go right ahead, but secular state please

2. Freedom of Speech: - yes

3. Censorship: - no

4. Prostitution: - yes

5. Same-sex marriage/adoption: - certainly yes

6. Abortion: - yes, but very early

7. Stem-cell research: - i don't really know about it but i think viable feti are not used?

8. Euthanasia: - definitely should be allowed, person of sound mind allowing it etc

9. Capital Punishment: - absolutely not. state should not kill people to show that killing people is wrong

10. Marijuana: - legalise away

11. Other widely-illegal drugs: - i don't know enough about the effects to be honest
generally i think people should be allowed do drugs in their own homes if they want but this could possibly be different so i won't say until i know more

Pherekydes

What about immigration? :mad:

FatherLen

this thread may cause an argument or twelve

MrStuffins

The answer to all of those issues is Roma Gypsies!

/AH

Chuck Stone

robman60 wrote: »

1. Religion: Do you think religion has any place in documents like the constitution (which it currently has in abundance), and the law of a country? Do you think our society should be completely secular with no references to religion in things like inauguration ceremonies etc.

In statutory things yes.

2. Freedom of Speech: Do you think there should be 100% free speech even if it were seen as damaging to our country's reputation (what's left of it )

No. Limits have to placed on free speech.

3. Censorship: Do you believe there should be any censorship of the internet or other media? This includes printing of pictures that may be seen as sensitive too.

In principle, no.

4. Prostitution: Do you think prostitution should be legal?

Yes.

5. Same-sex marriage/adoption: Do you think gay couples shoould be allowed marry and have equal marriage rights to heterosexual couples? Furthermore, do you think gay couples should be allowed to adopt children?

Yes.

6. Abortion: Do you think abortion should be legal? Are there certain circumstances in which it should be legal? Please elaborate on when it should/shouldn't be legal in your opinion.

Yes with strict time limits.

7. Stem-cell research: Do you favour the use of human embryos for stem cell research, which results in the destruction of the human embryo with the goal of medical cures.

Yes as long as there is no suffering involved.

8. Euthanasia: Do you think voluntary euthanasia should be allowed? How stringently should it be regulated?

Yes. Well regulated.

9. Capital Punishment: Are you in favour of the death penalty?

No nay never.

10. Marijuana: Are you in favour of the legalisation of marijuana for all adults? Do you think it should only be allowed for medicinal purposes or do you think it should be completely outlawed.

Full legalisation of all drugs would be my stance.

11. Other widely-illegal drugs: For drugs such as cocaine, heroin, ecstasy etc. Do you think they should be legal or illegal?

Full legalisation of all drugs would be my stance.

mikemac1

Religion: Do you think religion has any place in documents like the constitution Yes

2. Freedom of Speech: Do you think there should be 100% free speech No

3. Censorship: Do you believe there should be any censorship of the internet or other media? Yes

4. Prostitution: Do you think prostitution should be legal? Yes

5. Same-sex marriage/adoption: Do you think gay couples shoould be allowed marry and have equal marriage rights to heterosexual couples? Civil unions yes, marriage no

6. Abortion: Do you think abortion should be legal? No

7. Stem-cell research: Do you favour the use of human embryos for stem cell research, No

8. Euthanasia: Do you think voluntary euthanasia should be allowed? Yes

9. Capital Punishment: Are you in favour of the death penalty? No

10. Marijuana: Are you in favour of the legalisation of marijuana for all adults? No

11. Other widely-illegal drugs: For drugs such as cocaine, heroin, ecstasy etc. No

Coriolanus

Standman wrote: »

They should reduce AH to this one single thread, I think you've got it all covered there. We can all finally go home.

Missing immigration, travellers and public vs private sector.

Sindri

1. Secular.

2. Yes.

3. No.

4. Yes. Completely legal. For practical reasons.

5. Yes.

6. Yes.

7. Stem cell research yes. Embryonic stem cell research yes but that will be irrelevant soon enough.

8. Yes.

9. No.

10. Yes. Its illegality contributes to organised crime.

11. Illegal. They are highly addictive and there use is not as widespread as marijuana, cigarettes, alcohol and do not contribute as mush money to criminals. But we should put our resources into rehab clinics as users relapse less and it is cheaper. Also the likes of heroin we should be buying the raw material, such as from Afghanistan so Islamists are not funded from it and we get cheap morphine and the farmers get a decent wage. It would also cut supply to criminals.

44leto

All yes up to the legalise drugs bit.

There are good arguments for both sides of the debate to legalise drug, but I say no, we have enough problems with the legal drugs.

Jess16

Forgot the old Social Welfare chestnut you novice!

Temptamperu

1. Religion:Has no place in the modern world, feel free to worship but keep it oit of the law, schools and politics

2. Freedom of Speech: Freedom of speech is something we get when we are about 3 or 4 years old and I should be allowed say what I want when I want

3. Censorship: Nobody has the right to tell you what you can and cant watch/listen too

4. Prostitution: Should be legal to make it safer for the ladies/boys who are put in some dangerous situations.

5. Same-sex marriage/adoption: Anyone who wants to raise kids should be allowed raise kids

6. Abortion: Should be legalised.

7. Stem-cell research: should be legalised

8. Euthanasia: Do you think voluntary euthanasia should be allowed? How stringently should it be regulated?

9. Capital Punishment: No

10. Marijuana: yes, good for revenue and tourism

11. Other widely-illegal drugs: yes because of the above.

4zn76tysfajdxp

robman60 wrote: »

1. Religion: Do you think religion has any place in documents like the constitution (which it currently has in abundance), and the law of a country? Do you think our society should be completely secular with no references to religion in things like inauguration ceremonies etc.

No religious references should be in government documents. Society shouldn't and couldn't be completely secular as people should be free to practice whichever religion they please, so long as it doesn't impinge on anyone else's rights.

2. Freedom of Speech: Do you think there should be 100% free speech even if it were seen as damaging to our country's reputation (what's left of it )

100% free speech is impossible and impractical. Yes to free speech in regards to uncovering political corruption. No in regards to yelling "FIRE!" in the cinema as a joke.

3. Censorship: Do you believe there should be any censorship of the internet or other media? This includes printing of pictures that may be seen as sensitive too.

Yes in regards to child porn, those Russian hammer killer videos, Iraqi beheadings etc.

4. Prostitution: Do you think prostitution should be legal? I'm not even sure if it's illegal here, but I presume it is. Those escort agencies are shady, though. Enlighten me please if you can.

Yes it should be only so that it can become a regulated industry where the prostitutes can be protected by law from being abused/raped etc.

5. Same-sex marriage/adoption: Do you think gay couples shoould be allowed marry and have equal marriage rights to heterosexual couples? Furthermore, do you think gay couples should be allowed to adopt children?

Yes to both. No question.

6. Abortion: Do you think abortion should be legal? Are there certain circumstances in which it should be legal? Please elaborate on when it should/shouldn't be legal in your opinion.

Yes. I also think counseling should be provided by the state for anyone who's in the position of having to abort their kid. Before and after the deed

7. Stem-cell research: Do you favour the use of human embryos for stem cell research, which results in the destruction of the human embryo with the goal of medical cures.

Yes.

8. Euthanasia: Do you think voluntary euthanasia should be allowed? How stringently should it be regulated?

Yes. As an intelligent, sentient being it should be my right to decide if I don't want to live in pain anymore if I have a terminal illness. Procedures should be performed by doctors after meeting with either the patient of his/her family if the patient is not of sound mind.

9. Capital Punishment: Are you in favour of the death penalty? Elaborate on when you feel it is/isn't appropriate in your opinion.

No. It is never appropriate.

10. Marijuana: Are you in favour of the legalisation of marijuana for all adults? Do you think it should only be allowed for medicinal purposes or do you think it should be completely outlawed.

I think it should be made totally legal for adults to buy it. It should also be regulated with distribution control taken away from criminal gangs.

11. Other widely-illegal drugs: For drugs such as cocaine, heroin, ecstasy etc. Do you think they should be legal or illegal?

Legal to reduce the risk of even more dangerous and toxic chemicals being mixed with them.

And that's what I think about everything.

AnonoBoy

There's a light switch in the hallway down to the bathroom in my house. Nobody has any clue what it does but I have an irrestistible compulsion to flick it every time I go past it.

I have no time to consider any other pressing issues until I figure out what that feckin' switch does.

MrStuffins

AnonoBoy wrote: »

There's a light switch in the hallway down to the bathroom in my house. Nobody has any clue what it does but I have an irrestistible compulsion to flick it every time I go past it.

I have no time to consider any other pressing issues until I figure out what that feckin' switch does.

It's probably a switch for a light.

That's probably why it's called a light switch! :pac:


We had one of those too though. We had our house re-wired a few years ago and I asked the electrician what it was for and where it led.

he said it led nowhere :eek:

mackg

+1 to what Chuck said.

But isn't saying no to free speech and no to censorship kind of contradictory?
I'm open to correction here.

HalloweenJack

Religion: Freedom of worship, yes, but no legal position for any religion.

Freedom of Speech: 100%, if people have stupid opinions, debate them on them. Silencing them is stupid and undemocratic.

Censorship: Meh, there should be warnings, i.e. "what you see might cause offence or distress" but it should be the person's choice to continue from there.

Prostitution: Yes, as long as the prostitutes aren't being trafficked, etc. As with drugs, regulation would make it a safer industry.

Same-sex marriage/adoption: Yep, no problem whatsoever with these.

Abortion: I'm pro-choice.

Stem-cell research: If it can help end people's suffering, yes.

Euthanasia: See above.

Capital Punishment: For some repeated offenders (rapists or child abusers) or serial killers, it should be used, some people forfeit their right to life by torturing others.

Marijuana: 100% legalisation.

Other widely-illegal drugs: Any drug that does as much or less damage than alcohol and/or tobacco should be legal. I'm not so sure about stronger drugs, though I'd imagine regulation would help lessen the dangers.

robman60 wrote:

11. I am against the legalisation of other drugs. I think they should be kept illegal, as although people can still get drugs quite easily from dealers, the legal availability would be bad for society I think.

Because drug dealers are such upstanding members of society? :rolleyes:

brummytom

1. Religion: Though I'm a practicing Catholic myself, I don't think Religion should really have any place in law

2. Freedom of Speech: Yes

3. Censorship: It depends on the content. If it's not horrific then yes.

4. Prostitution: Yes

5. Same-sex marriage/adoption: Yes, no.

6. Abortion: No, unless the mother's life is in danger

7. Stem-cell research: No

8. Euthanasia: No

9. Capital Punishment: No

10. Marijuana: Yes

11. Other widely-illegal drugs: Illegal

amacachi

Chuck Stone wrote: »

In statutory things yes.No. Limits have to placed on free speech.

This sums up my view on how free speech should be

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aFd5Cci_pE4

blatantrereg

1. Strongly favour secular society

2. Freedom of speech on political matters. There is such a thing as taste and privacy though.

3. Approve of censorship in the name of taste and privacy but in most cases against.

4. Prostitution: Dont know or care.

5. Strongly favour equal rights for gays

6. Abortion: Strongly favour legalisation of abortion.

7. Stem-cell research: I favour this

8. Euthanasia: Yes I approve of its legality.

9. Capital Punishment: I am strongly against the death penalty because the legal system is far from perfect so captial punishment = wrongful executions, and this sort of institutionalised violence is as chilling as the most loathsome crimes in any case.

10. Marijuana: No strong feelings either way. Certainly favour decriminalisation anyway. Pointless prosecuting people for possession of small amounts.

11. Apparently decrominalisation in Portugal has led to great decreases in drug use across the board. So that seems like the best approach.

mattjack

robman60 wrote: »

1. Religion: Do you think religion has any place in documents like the constitution (which it currently has in abundance), and the law of a country? Do you think our society should be completely secular with no references to religion in things like inauguration ceremonies etc.

2. Freedom of Speech: Do you think there should be 100% free speech even if it were seen as damaging to our country's reputation (what's left of it )



4. Prostitution: Do you think prostitution should be legal? I'm not even sure if it's illegal here, but I presume it is. Those escort agencies are shady, though. Enlighten me please if you can.

5. Same-sex marriage/adoption: Do you think gay couples shoould be allowed marry and have equal marriage rights to heterosexual couples? Furthermore, do you think gay couples should be allowed to adopt children?

6. Abortion: Do you think abortion should be legal? Are there certain circumstances in which it should be legal? Please elaborate on when it should/shouldn't be legal in your opinion.

7. Stem-cell research: Do you favour the use of human embryos for stem cell research, which results in the destruction of the human embryo with the goal of medical cures.

8. Euthanasia: Do you think voluntary euthanasia should be allowed? How stringently should it be regulated?

9. Capital Punishment: Are you in favour of the death penalty? Elaborate on when you feel it is/isn't appropriate in your opinion.

10. Marijuana: Are you in favour of the legalisation of marijuana for all adults? Do you think it should only be allowed for medicinal purposes or do you think it should be completely outlawed.

11. Other widely-illegal drugs: For drugs such as cocaine, heroin, ecstasy etc. Do you think they should be legal or illegal?


My stances:

1. I think religion has a place in society for those who want to be religious, but I feel its inclusion in law is outdated. Having it as part of the inauguration ceremony for the president makes it somewhat of an imposed thing, rather than a voluntary thing. Religion is completely subjective and should be kept that way I think.

2. I think 100% free speech should be allowed. The country belongs to the people and people should be allowed say whatever they want.


4. I couldn't care less really. Personally, i wouldn't use a prostitute, but I don't think it should be illegal if someone wants to. It should be highly monitored, though, to ensure the welfare of the "workers".

5. I am in favour of same-sex marriage and equal rights for gay couples. I think adoption within same sex couples needs some research, although I can't foresee any issues with it. I'm not completely convinced about it though.

6. I am anti-abortion. I think it is one of, if not the greatest injustice in society today. I cannot even put into words how opposed I am to abortion. I feel it cheapens life hugely, targetting humans without a voice. How killing something with a beating heart, and a cry (especially if it's a late-term abortion) can be seen as just is beyond me. I think it should be criminally punishable too. In the case of rape, it's particularly tough, but I think that the mother should be encouraged to continue to term and offer the baby up for adoption once the baby is born if the mother doesn't want to keep her child. Shocking to believe that there's an abortion every second. Aklll these kids who never got a chance at life at all, I really think it's unjust.

7. I'm not in favour of stem cell research. I've read of the potential medical benefits, but I'm still against the destruction of human embryos. It's definitely one of the tougher moral issues because of the possible benefits, but I'm still opposed to it.

8. I'm indifferent. I think it's better that it isn't legal as people would consider it much more quickly I think. I wouldn't actively oppose if it were made legal, but I'm not an advocate either.

9. I'm against the death penalty. I think the eye for an eye theory is archaic and wrong. Life imprisonment makes the person really think of their crimes, even if it incurrs extra expense on the state.

10. I am pro-marijuana. I think it's ludicrous that alcohol and tobacco are perfectly legal, yet marijuana is portrayed by authorities as some sort of destroyer of lives. Legalising marijuana would also reduce funding to organised crime organisations, also helping society I guess.

11. I am against the legalisation of other drugs. I think they should be kept illegal, as although people can still get drugs quite easily from dealers, the legal availability would be bad for society I think.



So yeah, feel free to voice your own opinion. You don't have to give an opinion on all of these, just choose any you're interested in.

I removed number three for you. Censorship and all that.

Micky Dolenz

Yes for all.

minidazzler

1. Religion: Has no place in a countries constitution, freedom to practice it is vital but no one religion should have prominence over another and things like Communions and such should not take up school time. The Catholic Church shouldn't have any say in Public School, only the private schools they actually run.

2. Freedom of Speech: One should be allowed to say and do what one wants as long as it doesn't physically or mentally harm other people. (no pictures of mangled corpses to get attention.

3. Censorship: No censorship ever on the internet it should be a freezone. Though those caught downloading things like CP should be severely punished.

4. Prostitution: Fully legal and regulated, street-walking shouldn't be allowed though. It's unsafe and leaves a bad impression.

5. Same-sex marriage/adoption: Complete legality, the only difference I see is that they like someone like themselves, if they love each other they should be allowed to marry.

6. Abortion: Fully legal, not many questions asked, just what a doctor needs to know to know if the woman wants to go through with it.

7. Stem-cell research: Most of the arguments holding it back are religious ones, they have no bearing on science, do it.

8. Euthanasia: Your own body, if you wanna die and have someone to help you get a legal document together and ye should be good to go. A Psychologist should be consulted to ensure the person is in a fit state of mind to make that decision.

9. Capital Punishment: In favour of it, plenty of people deserve to die for the crimes they commit.

10. Marijuana: Complete legalization, sold in a pub-like environment only though, basically to keep under 18's out. It's my body I will decide what I want in it.

11. Other widely-illegal drugs: Legal, all of them, it's my body I will decide what I want in it.

Chuck Stone

mackg wrote: »

+1 to what Chuck said.

But isn't saying no to free speech and no to censorship kind of contradictory?
I'm open to correction here.

Hmm... true.

When I was answering the censorship question I was thinking of the internet being captured and controlled by govts/corporations under the guise of protecting the public (which would be bollocks).

When I was answering the freedom of speech question I was thinking of how some people incite others to hatred and violence.

I haven't developed my thinking enough on the free speech thingy yet tbh. Absolute free speech sounds okay in principle but seems impractical if not dangerous in reality. Will need to re3ad around it a bit more.

Rothmans

robman60 wrote: »

1. Religion: Do you think religion has any place in documents like the constitution (which it currently has in abundance), and the law of a country? Do you think our society should be completely secular with no references to religion in things like inauguration ceremonies etc.

Should be completely separate from each other.

2. Freedom of Speech: Do you think there should be 100% free speech even if it were seen as damaging to our country's reputation (what's left of it )

Against complete freedom. Incitement of hatred and all that jazz.

3. Censorship: Do you believe there should be any censorship of the internet or other media? This includes printing of pictures that may be seen as sensitive too.

Censorship to a limited extent. Agree with what Frada said.

4. Prostitution: Do you think prostitution should be legal? I'm not even sure if it's illegal here, but I presume it is. Those escort agencies are shady, though. Enlighten me please if you can.

Regulation couldn't do any harm.

5. Same-sex marriage/adoption: Do you think gay couples shoould be allowed marry and have equal marriage rights to heterosexual couples? Furthermore, do you think gay couples should be allowed to adopt children?

In favour.

6. Abortion: Do you think abortion should be legal? Are there certain circumstances in which it should be legal? Please elaborate on when it should/shouldn't be legal in your opinion.

Generally against abortion, save the exceptions outlined in X v AG.

7. Stem-cell research: Do you favour the use of human embryos for stem cell research, which results in the destruction of the human embryo with the goal of medical cures.

Can only see benefits to stem-cell research.

8. Euthanasia: Do you think voluntary euthanasia should be allowed? How stringently should it be regulated?

If the person is of sound mind and body, and if performed by a doctor, and regulated properly.

9. Capital Punishment: Are you in favour of the death penalty? Elaborate on when you feel it is/isn't appropriate in your opinion.

Completely in favour. Sick of reading about violent scumbag criminals getting slaps on the risk for serious violent crimes, then re-offending and re-offending. The likes of these ought to receive fitting punishment, for the sake of justice and in the interests of the law abiding citizen.

10. Marijuana: Are you in favour of the legalisation of marijuana for all adults? Do you think it should only be allowed for medicinal purposes or do you think it should be completely outlawed.

Some people argue that marijuana is a gateway drug. If this is legalised won't the supposed gate-way effect be reduced as when a person moves on from marijuana to harder drugs, nothing changes, in that both will be illegal. However, if marijuana is legalised, a person would then be crossing the line of legality, thus disincentivising the transition to harder drugs.

11. Other widely-illegal drugs: For drugs such as cocaine, heroin, ecstasy etc. Do you think they should be legal or illegal?

I'm again' it.

Eve_Dublin

1. Religion:

Completely secular state but freedom to practise religion.

2. Freedom of Speech:

Not 100%, no.

3. Censorship:

In some cases, I believe there needs to be. Child pornography, for example.

4. Prostitution:

Yes.

5. Same-sex marriage/adoption:

The should be allowed the exact same rights at hetrosexuals.

6. Abortion:

Yes but with a strict time limit.

7. Stem-cell research:

Yes.

8. Euthanasia:

Yes. If the person is of sound mind, they should be able to choose their fate.

9. Capital Punishment:

Never.

10. Marijuana:

Legalised.

11. Other widely-illegal drugs:

Legalised.

Sindri

Why are people for abortion but only within a certain time.

Should it not just be legal and people can then choose. It's like this law does not apply to me but if it was someone else then their should be a time limit.

It's ridiculous.

Chuck Stone

Sindri wrote: »

Why are people for abortion but only within a certain time.

Should it not just be legal and people can then choose. It's like this law does not apply to me but if it was someone else then their should be a time limit.

It's ridiculous.

I hate the idea that an unborn child would suffer. I think it's immoral actually.

rossie1977

robman60 wrote: »

6. I am anti-abortion. I think it is one of, if not the greatest injustice in society today. I cannot even put into words how opposed I am to abortion. I feel it cheapens life hugely, targetting humans without a voice. How killing something with a beating heart, and a cry (especially if it's a late-term abortion) can be seen as just is beyond me. I think it should be criminally punishable too. In the case of rape, it's particularly tough, but I think that the mother should be encouraged to continue to term and offer the baby up for adoption once the baby is born if the mother doesn't want to keep her child. Shocking to believe that there's an abortion every second. Aklll these kids who never got a chance at life at all, I really think it's unjust.

i can't believe somebody in modern day ireland would hold this view, incredible

Sindri

Chuck Stone wrote: »

I hate the idea that an unborn child would suffer. I think it's immoral actually.

You can't put a limit on it in my opinion, only for medical reasons. The woman having the child must spend the rest of her life looking after it. It is immoral to make her have the child and then give it up for adoption. It is the woman's child and if she chooses not to have or even, dear god, not to want it, then it is none of my fucking business nor the governments nor the old lady down the street who'll bitch and gossip about it.

Killer Pigeon

robman60 wrote: »

1. Religion: Do you think religion has any place in documents like the constitution (which it currently has in abundance), and the law of a country? Do you think our society should be completely secular with no references to religion in things like inauguration ceremonies etc.

It shouldn't even have a place in inauguration ceremonies. If we were to follow that logic we might as well give an oath to the magical mushroom god, Mushroomy.

robman60 wrote: »

2. Freedom of Speech: Do you think there should be 100% free speech even if it were seen as damaging to our country's reputation (what's left of it )

Of course there should be 100% free speech. The only people who care about a "country's reputation" are politicians who fear they'll have their own personal reputations tarnish. Free speak before patriotism, I say.

robman60 wrote: »

3. Censorship: Do you believe there should be any censorship of the internet or other media? This includes printing of pictures that may be seen as sensitive too.

There should be zero censorship, even very controversial view no matter how extreme. I believe that all ideas should be allow in the public domain so that they can be fully scrutinized. If you censor controversial ideas (say Nazism), people will only become interested in them because of their secrecy and novelty. Everything must be thrashed out in public.

robman60 wrote: »

4. Prostitution: Do you think prostitution should be legal? I'm not even sure if it's illegal here, but I presume it is. Those escort agencies are shady, though. Enlighten me please if you can.

I think it should be legal. Prostitutes do not have legal protection. If they are raped it is less likely that they will report the incident for fear of having charges brought against them as they will have to admit to being a prostitute. It's better to be protected by the law than being "protected" and exploited by a pimp.

robman60 wrote: »

5. Same-sex marriage/adoption: Do you think gay couples shoould be allowed marry and have equal marriage rights to heterosexual couples? Furthermore, do you think gay couples should be allowed to adopt children?

Of course they should. There is no logical reason why gay/lesbian couples should not be allowed to marry or adopt children.

robman60 wrote: »

6. Abortion: Do you think abortion should be legal? Are there certain circumstances in which it should be legal? Please elaborate on when it should/shouldn't be legal in your opinion.

I believe that a woman should have the right to choose until a certain point in the pregnancy (say third trimester or half way through second trimester). After this point, abortion should only be permitted if the woman's life/heath is in danger or if the child will not be likely to survive the remaining duration of the pregnancy (or something along those lines).

robman60 wrote: »

7. Stem-cell research: Do you favour the use of human embryos for stem cell research, which results in the destruction of the human embryo with the goal of medical cures.

It's a controversial subject. If abortion is legal, I think that if the mother consented to an abortion within the first trimester of the pregnancy, then the mother should also be allowed to consent to the use of the aborted embryo for stem cell research.

robman60 wrote: »

8. Euthanasia: Do you think voluntary euthanasia should be allowed? How stringently should it be regulated?

Yes. I believe that an individual who is diagnosed with a life threatening illness/condition, which has no cure and will result in the individual incurring a lot of pain/suffering, should be allowed to end their life if they so wish. However, I believe it should be strictly regulated.

Saying this, I am weary of it. It would be very hard to determine whether the individual was actually giving voluntary consent. I believe that it is the genetic disposition of all life to survive, no matter what the circumstances are. Survival is embedded into the psychology of all animals, including humans. Therefore, I believe that if an individual wishes to take their own life, no matter how grave their circumstance, then I would question if they were actually mentally sound.

robman60 wrote: »

9. Capital Punishment: Are you in favour of the death penalty? Elaborate on when you feel it is/isn't appropriate in your opinion.

Capital punishment should be forbidden, end of.

robman60 wrote: »

10. Marijuana: Are you in favour of the legalisation of marijuana for all adults? Do you think it should only be allowed for medicinal purposes or do you think it should be completely outlawed.

I think that Marijuana/cannabis should be legal, as well as many other drugs that are presently illegal. It should be taken out out of the hands of criminals. And besides, consuming cannabis has been proven to be less dangerous than consuming alcohol or tobacco.

robman60 wrote: »

11. Other widely-illegal drugs: For drugs such as cocaine, heroin, ecstasy etc. Do you think they should be legal or illegal?

Making other drugs (drugs that are worse than alcohol/cannabis/tobacco) illegal is a stupid logic. It's like saying "we're making antifreeze illegal because it imposes serious health risks for those who drink it". That's nanny state logic. Legalise it. If someone is stupid enough to take it, let them, it's their own fault. If it's illegal it'll be more of a taboo/novelty and people are often attract to things that are taboo/novelty.

Freddie59

1. Religion: Do you think religion has any place in documents like the constitution (which it currently has in abundance), and the law of a country? Do you think our society should be completely secular with no references to religion in things like inauguration ceremonies etc.

Yes.

2. Freedom of Speech: Do you think there should be 100% free speech even if it were seen as damaging to our country's reputation (what's left of it )

You cannot have 100% freedom of speech. What, for example, if someone says "so and so is a paedophile"?.


3. Censorship: Do you believe there should be any censorship of the internet or other media? This includes printing of pictures that may be seen as sensitive too.

Only an extremely limited amount, if, say, people's lives are in danger or unfounded allegations are made.

4. Prostitution: Do you think prostitution should be legal? I'm not even sure if it's illegal here, but I presume it is. Those escort agencies are shady, though. Enlighten me please if you can.

Legalise and control it.

5. Same-sex marriage/adoption: Do you think gay couples shoould be allowed marry and have equal marriage rights to heterosexual couples? Furthermore, do you think gay couples should be allowed to adopt children?

Yes.

6. Abortion: Do you think abortion should be legal? Are there certain circumstances in which it should be legal? Please elaborate on when it should/shouldn't be legal in your opinion.

Only in extremely tightly-regulated circumstances, and especially when the mother's life is at risk.

7. Stem-cell research: Do you favour the use of human embryos for stem cell research, which results in the destruction of the human embryo with the goal of medical cures.

If there is no suffering involved. And it was purely to find cures, not for commercial exploitation. No doubt it is already going on anyway.

8. Euthanasia: Do you think voluntary euthanasia should be allowed? How stringently should it be regulated?

Yes. Again tightly regulated. How you would do this I do not know.

9. Capital Punishment: Are you in favour of the death penalty? Elaborate on when you feel it is/isn't appropriate in your opinion.

100% in cut and dried cases. And as soon as possible.

10. Marijuana: Are you in favour of the legalisation of marijuana for all adults? Do you think it should only be allowed for medicinal purposes or do you think it should be completely outlawed.

I'd allow it for medicinal purposes only. But it would have to be removed from the hands of the pharmaceuticals.

11. Other widely-illegal drugs: For drugs such as cocaine, heroin, ecstasy etc. Do you think they should be legal or illegal?

Absolutely no way. Ever.

Sulmac

robman60 wrote: »

1. Religion: Do you think religion has any place in documents like the constitution (which it currently has in abundance), and the law of a country? Do you think our society should be completely secular with no references to religion in things like inauguration ceremonies etc.

Believe completely in freedom of religion (and from religion) but also that the state should be secular. No religion should have any input into law-making or delivery of publicly-funded services. Constitution and all official oaths should be free of all reference to a deity.

2. Freedom of Speech: Do you think there should be 100% free speech even if it were seen as damaging to our country's reputation (what's left of it )

There can never be '100%' free speech and it's not desirable (national security, child pornography, snuff videos, and so on). As a means to expose corruption, completely (with whistleblower protection). Also, it shouldn't be used as a vehicle to encourage violence or discrimination against a particular group.

3. Censorship: Do you believe there should be any censorship of the internet or other media? This includes printing of pictures that may be seen as sensitive too.

See above.

4. Prostitution: Do you think prostitution should be legal? I'm not even sure if it's illegal here, but I presume it is. Those escort agencies are shady, though. Enlighten me please if you can.

Legalisation, regulation, taxation.

5. Same-sex marriage/adoption: Do you think gay couples shoould be allowed marry and have equal marriage rights to heterosexual couples? Furthermore, do you think gay couples should be allowed to adopt children?

Yes to both.

6. Abortion: Do you think abortion should be legal? Are there certain circumstances in which it should be legal? Please elaborate on when it should/shouldn't be legal in your opinion.

Generally, I think it should be legal. Medical abortion (up to around 9 weeks) and surgical abortion should be available in the first trimester on demand, and afterwards only in certain circumstances until viability (rape, incest, etc.) or throughout the pregnancy if it endangers the woman's life or health. This seems to be the system in most European countries (with a few exceptions, such as Britain where the 'on demand' limit is much higher).

7. Stem-cell research: Do you favour the use of human embryos for stem cell research, which results in the destruction of the human embryo with the goal of medical cures.

Don't know too much about the issue but if it can help cure certain illnesses, then yes.

8. Euthanasia: Do you think voluntary euthanasia should be allowed? How stringently should it be regulated?

Yes, for the terminally ill. Regulation along the lines of the Dutch model.

9. Capital Punishment: Are you in favour of the death penalty? Elaborate on when you feel it is/isn't appropriate in your opinion.

No, it's never appropriate.

10. Marijuana: Are you in favour of the legalisation of marijuana for all adults? Do you think it should only be allowed for medicinal purposes or do you think it should be completely outlawed.

Legalisation, regulation, taxation. Doctors should also be allowed to prescribe it.

11. Other widely-illegal drugs: For drugs such as cocaine, heroin, ecstasy etc. Do you think they should be legal or illegal?

I think our drug policy needs a total rethink - something similar to the more successful Dutch or Portuguese models (view it as a public health issue rather than a criminal one). For those severely addicted, the actual drugs should be dispensed by pharmacists to ensure what they are using is 'safe'.

Foxhound38

1. Religion: No, secular state please. What people want to believe or worship on their own time is absolutely their own perogative as long as there is no coercion or harm involved. Religion and Public State Education to stay at least 100 yards from each other at all times.

2. Freedom of Speech: In general yes, but I would ascribe to the "harm principal" in this. No yelling fire in a crowded theatre. Also, I think the media should need to be able to back up potentially libelous claims about individuals.

3. Censorship: In terms of print and screen media - beyond what I mentioned above no. In terms of the internet, absolutely not - I think adults should be able to access whatever they like on the internet. In terms of minors, the answer is parenting not censorship. If parents are worried about what little Johnny is exposed to online, put the computer in the family sitting room where you can keep an eye instead of his bedroom like a responsible parent. Ignorance is not an excuse anymore.

4. Prostitution: I think being a prostitute should be decriminalized. I think paying for sex on the other hand should be prohibited. The reason I think this is mostly to kill the demand for it without putting the women and men working as prostitutes under legal pressure. The reason I want to kill demand is because of the human trafficking and organized crime element inextricably tied up in it more than any opposition to people of their own free will selling sex - the reality is that few do it out of their own free will, often there is coercion involved and the only reason that is the case is because it's profitable and the only reason that is the case is because punters act with impunity while it is the prostitute him or herself that is the criminal.

5. Same-sex marriage/adoption: Yes on both counts. Other people's marraiges are of no business or concern to me or anyone else in society other than the people involved, neither is who they choose to marry. In terms of adoption, there is no credible evidence to suggest that it is detremental to the development of the child, and there are plenty of children in need of good homes and loving guardians, of which there are plenty of willing potentials in the LGBT community. No brainer of an issue really.

6. Abortion: Yes, with strict time limits

7. Stem-cell research: Yes, another no brainer. An embryo isn't a baby.

8. Euthanasia: Yes, extremely well regulated though.

9. Capital Punishment: No, absolutely not.

10. Marijuana: Yes. I don't even smoke the stuff and even I think it's insane that ciggarrettes and alcohol is available and not this. Also, it's illegal status plays right into the hands and pockets of criminal elements. Finally, if it where legalized we could regulate it to ensure it's not a dangerous batch being sold, and tax it to raise a few bob in these troubled times. Another no-brainer.

11. Other widely-illegal drugs: In general, no. Needs to be taken on a case by case basis though - and grounded in solid research, not Liveline histronics...

Zebra3

Religion should be banned with immeadiate effect.

It's a load of made up hocus pocus that preys on gullible people.

Chuck Stone

Zebra3 wrote: »

Religion should be banned with immeadiate effect.

It's a load of made up hocus pocus that preys on gullible people.

T'would be next to impossible to enforce. Not to mention costly and it would take a very mean dictatorship to achieve anything approaching it's eradication.

Best to try to outgrow it I reckon (as a species).

MrStuffins

Zebra3 wrote: »

Religion should be banned with immeadiate effect.

It's a load of made up hocus pocus that preys on gullible people.

I'm afraid the vast majority of people would disagree with you and probably slap you with a fish!

nice_very

1. No.

2. Yes.

3. No.

4. Yes.

5. No.

6. Yes.

7. Yes

8. Yes.

9. Yes.

10. Yes

11. No

starbelgrade

Yes.

PseudoFamous

1. Not in law, perfectly fine for religion outside law. Law should be objective and neutral.

2. Our freedom of speech is ideal. For the vast, vast majority, free, but ever-so-slightly limited. I can say anything I like, and I have no fear of government thugs coming to kick the crap outta me.

3. Ideally, There should be a small amount of censorship, i.e., on child pornography, how to construct a bomb, etc. Top tier bad.

4. Yeah, grand if you want to indulge, so long as the industry is safe, regulated, et al.

5. Do what you please, a gay couple should have the same rights as a straight couple.

6. Edgy topic this one. I'm not sure what to think about it, to be honest. I'll have to echo Chuck Stone and suggest that it's fine assuming time limits are imposed, and no 7 month fetus is ripped from the womb. When particularly should be the cut off point, I don't know, I'd rather let medical experts decide.

7. I don't really know enough about stem cells to be able to discuss them, which is a shame. I'm open to the idea of them, but I get a bit queasy thinking about this sort of stuff, so I'll leave it as a "maybe".

8. Extreme, extreme regulation, but yes, if the "client" (for wont of a better word) feels that ending their life is necessary, but are unable to commit the act themselves, or wishes for a more dignified death.

9. I used to argue no, but there are some cases when the client feels no remorse for a brutal and horrific humanitarian crimes, that the death penalty is the only punishment they deserve. e.g., Anders Behring Brevik

10. Sure, why not. Making it more illegal would be shooting yourself in the foot, on the part of the government.

11. All depends on the drug. Obviously, cocaine, meth, herion should not be legalised, whereas MDMA, cannabis, and other "soft" drugs should be decriminalised, at minimum.

ilovesleep

robman60 wrote: »

1. Religion: Do you think religion has any place in documents like the constitution (which it currently has in abundance), and the law of a country? Do you think our society should be completely secular with no references to religion in things like inauguration ceremonies etc.

2. Freedom of Speech: Do you think there should be 100% free speech even if it were seen as damaging to our country's reputation (what's left of it )

3. Censorship: Do you believe there should be any censorship of the internet or other media? This includes printing of pictures that may be seen as sensitive too.

4. Prostitution: Do you think prostitution should be legal? I'm not even sure if it's illegal here, but I presume it is. Those escort agencies are shady, though. Enlighten me please if you can.

5. Same-sex marriage/adoption: Do you think gay couples shoould be allowed marry and have equal marriage rights to heterosexual couples? Furthermore, do you think gay couples should be allowed to adopt children?

6. Abortion: Do you think abortion should be legal? Are there certain circumstances in which it should be legal? Please elaborate on when it should/shouldn't be legal in your opinion.

7. Stem-cell research: Do you favour the use of human embryos for stem cell research, which results in the destruction of the human embryo with the goal of medical cures.

8. Euthanasia: Do you think voluntary euthanasia should be allowed? How stringently should it be regulated?

9. Capital Punishment: Are you in favour of the death penalty? Elaborate on when you feel it is/isn't appropriate in your opinion.

10. Marijuana: Are you in favour of the legalisation of marijuana for all adults? Do you think it should only be allowed for medicinal purposes or do you think it should be completely outlawed.

11. Other widely-illegal drugs: For drugs such as cocaine, heroin, ecstasy etc. Do you think they should be legal or illegal?

Religion
Not much of an oponion but I can't religion and Ireland's main religion shouldn't be tied to the state. In courtrooms they have people swearing on bibles yet they may not have any religion or god or bible.
Tying catholism to the state is old an outdated. Remove

prostitution
If somebody wants to sell their body for sex, let them. Why should it be shopped. If somebody wants to pay for sex, let them. Legalise that industry.

Gay marriage/ adoption
If two people love each other and wants to marry, let them do so. They are not hurting anyone just because they share the same sex and are gay.
They should also have equal rights. Why is whats between their legs an issue?

Abortion
Abortion is not for me but my views and opinions on abortion should not be forced upon others. Legalise it and make it available for those who may need it in or want it. The procedure is hard enough I'm sure for anyone who needs it, but being forced out from the country for the procedure makes it harder.

Euthanasia
I think it should be fully legalised. If somebody is suicidal I really don't think why they should die alone hanging from a tree or another way. Nobody has a right or a say on how and when someone elses die. Help them. Legalise it. An injection from a doctor and they can die comfortable.

Same goes for a terminal illness. Why prolong it. Legalise euthanasia and let someone decide for themselves.


Capital punishment
Absolutely completely in favour of it.
Reason: for the likes of the murderer of Manuela Riedo. He was only out from prison when he raped and killed her.

Weed
Yes, legalise it. It's pure daft how alcohol and cigarettes are legal yet they would do more damage than weed and all weed does is cause someone to laugh uncontrollably.

robman60

Saying this, I am weary of it. It would be very hard to determine whether the individual was actually giving voluntary consent. I believe that it is the genetic disposition of all life to survive, no matter what the circumstances are. Survival is embedded into the psychology of all animals, including humans. Therefore, I believe that if an individual wishes to take their own life, no matter how grave their circumstance, then I would question if they were actually mentally sound.

^This.

Exactly my opinion. It's difficult to see someone as rational when they defy the psychological disposition to survive.

Eric Cartman

1. Religion: Like cigarettes it should be available to adults only and with strong warnings on books/documentation/outside places of worship that its not to be taken literally and none of its ever been proved to be true

2. Freedom of Speech: 100% freedom of speech should always be upheld

3. Censorship: Nobody should have the right to censor any content at all

4. Prostitution: It should be legal, taxed and regulated

5. Same-sex marriage/adoption: there shouldnt be any law on it whatsoever, it should not be a state function in any way and should be up to the religions to decide what they allow

6. Abortion: It should be available to a woman of any age provided she is willing to go through sexual education if it is an abortion of convenience

7. Stem-cell research: to oppose stem cell research is one of the most idiotic beliefs a person can have in my book.

8. Euthanasia: It should be available and regulated and a psycological assesment done beforehand

9. Capital Punishment: The death penalty should be brought in for serious crimes

10. Marijuana: legalise it fully, tax it and sell it over the counter, Ireland would be back on form in no time

11. Other widely-illegal drugs: legalise everything, let idiots destroy themselves with heroin and take in some tax money while your at it.

laoch na mona

robman60 wrote: »

1. Religion: Do you think religion has any place in documents like the constitution (which it currently has in abundance), and the law of a country? Do you think our society should be completely secular with no references to religion in things like inauguration ceremonies etc.

2. Freedom of Speech: Do you think there should be 100% free speech even if it were seen as damaging to our country's reputation (what's left of it )

3. Censorship: Do you believe there should be any censorship of the internet or other media? This includes printing of pictures that may be seen as sensitive too.

4. Prostitution: Do you think prostitution should be legal? I'm not even sure if it's illegal here, but I presume it is. Those escort agencies are shady, though. Enlighten me please if you can.

5. Same-sex marriage/adoption: Do you think gay couples shoould be allowed marry and have equal marriage rights to heterosexual couples? Furthermore, do you think gay couples should be allowed to adopt children?

6. Abortion: Do you think abortion should be legal? Are there certain circumstances in which it should be legal? Please elaborate on when it should/shouldn't be legal in your opinion.

7. Stem-cell research: Do you favour the use of human embryos for stem cell research, which results in the destruction of the human embryo with the goal of medical cures.

8. Euthanasia: Do you think voluntary euthanasia should be allowed? How stringently should it be regulated?

9. Capital Punishment: Are you in favour of the death penalty? Elaborate on when you feel it is/isn't appropriate in your opinion.

10. Marijuana: Are you in favour of the legalisation of marijuana for all adults? Do you think it should only be allowed for medicinal purposes or do you think it should be completely outlawed.

11. Other widely-illegal drugs: For drugs such as cocaine, heroin, ecstasy etc. Do you think they should be legal or illegal?

1 everyone should be aloud to practice their faith freely. The only mention of it in the constitution should protect freedom of religion. Having it in ceremonies should be up to the person involved.

2 certain opinions shouldn't be protected by law like racism we don't need the likes of the BNP

3 obviously keep some level on tv and print to try stop children seeing things they shouldn't. The internet shouldn't be censored you get what you search for

4 legalise it that way we can tax it. It would have to be monitered very carefully i would be a tricky one to get right.

5 they should be able to marry i have reservations about adoption but im not out right opposed to i.

6 only aloud in extreme cases such as rape or incest.

7 if abortion happens then the embryos might as well be used for the good of humanity.

8 no the country already has a suicide problem we don't need to make it easier to kill yourselve.

9 ya but only if there is no doubt of there guilt and i think they should be aloud choose the method of their execution

10 legalise it its no worse then drink or fags and we could tax it like fags.

11 no they have clear negative effects on the users.

Only one i have a strong opinion on is bring in capital punishment for peodophiles ( repeated offenders ) sick freaks no point in their existance.

RichieC

Chuck has me covered. way to much effort to answer it personally.