ALS: thoughts on freedom

Australian Libertarian Society Blog

Mandatory bicycle helmets

I usually wear my bike helmet when I go for a ride because its the law and because I have generally accepted the view that it is good for my wellbeing. However that view is flawed according to this website:-

http://www.cycle-helmets.com/helmet_statistics.html

Perhaps that lump of plastic on my head is making me a more dangereous cyclist. And maybe compulsor helmet laws are causing us to exercise less. Given the obesity crisis in Australian (not to mention all the CO2 created when we drive instead of riding) then perhaps it is time to make bicycle helmets illegal. ;-)

February 18, 2008 Posted by | General | 30 Comments

Guns are good for Kiwis

Most aussie libertarians would not be surprised to hear the argument that private gun ownership tends to dampen crime. They may however be surprised to hear the argument being put by a high profile police officer who is responsible for administering the licensing of shooters.

http://www.stuff.co.nz/4357659a11.html

February 18, 2008 Posted by | International | 15 Comments

Move over Won

It seems that in South Korea some banks are engaging in product innovation to help customers ward off some of the effects of inflation. Rather than denominating bank accounts using the Won (national currency) some banks are now offering accounts denominated in gold. Whilst it is obvious that people will move their wealth to avoid the effects of inflation I am still intrigued by the novelty of this particular initiative (a throw back to the days of free banking). It seems that other banks are also intrigued with suggestions that the practice is set to expand. Of course the effect inflation has on moneys wealth storing effect is avoidable in many ways and this is in any case somewhat secondary to the broader economic maladies that inflation creates.

February 18, 2008 Posted by | International | 4 Comments

Presidential Material

US Presidential candidate Mike Huckabee shows just how seriously he takes the issue of state-sanctioned torture:

HUCKABEE: I’m finding just out how long I can go sleep deprived. You know, running for office is sort of like being waterboarded, I think.

You really can’t make this shit up.

February 18, 2008 Posted by | International, Politics | 4 Comments

   

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