From: (No Email available)

Date: 2004-07-12 00:30:52

Comment:

Thanks for clearing up the issue of who is writing what.  I figured that either there was a flaw in the log-in process, or I was dealing with a schizophrenic.

I would disagree that a right to an education is included in "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness" based on qualifying word, "pursuit." I completely agree that life is better with an education, but I don't believe that we are owed an education by the government.  The above phrase simply means that we are guaranteed the right to pursue happiness, but not handed happiness on a silver platter, nor are we guaranteed to be supplied with all the tools we need to attain it.  I believe that the phrase simply means that the government/citizens of this country cannot prevent or otherwise attempt to sabotage our life, liberty, or pursuit of happiness. So, as you said, education is not specifically mentioned in the Constitution, but we simply disagree on whether or not it is implied.

Being, as I am, a conservative, I do not share the opinion that Bush is damaging our education system. I believe, and I think statistics would be helpful here, that the public education system has been foundering since long before Bush's administration took office. I agree with Bush's position that throwing more money at an already inefficient education system is not the answer to the problem; ergo, I did not address Bush's "laying waste" to the system. I just don't feel that he is, that's all.

I agree that the debate over abortion is, on a certain level, as "piddly" as debating color choices.  I think that the root of the argument is over when the fetus becomes a human being. As you said, the courts have for decades sided with those who believe that the fetus is not a human life until birth, and is therefore not entitled to a right to "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness." I think you will agree that this is the watershed issue concerning abortion.

Perhaps we should all make sure to sign in, just so we know who we're talking to.  But, I appreciate whoever it is who responded to my last post. It was refreshing to read some solid logic and dialogue void of expletives and personal attacks. Log in next time so I know who I'm talking to :)