AH: What is your Stance on These Social Issues.

Sindri · 09-01-2012 09:33PM

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 · 09-01-2012 09:40PM

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 · 09-01-2012 09:44PM

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 · 09-01-2012 09:46PM

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 · 09-01-2012 09:47PM

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 · 09-01-2012 09:50PM

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 · 09-01-2012 09:56PM

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 · 09-01-2012 10:00PM

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 · 09-01-2012 10:02PM

Religion should be banned with immeadiate effect.

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

Chuck Stone · 09-01-2012 10:11PM

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 · 09-01-2012 10:19PM

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 · 09-01-2012 10:24PM

1. No.

2. Yes.

3. No.

4. Yes.

5. No.

6. Yes.

7. Yes

8. Yes.

9. Yes.

10. Yes

11. No

starbelgrade · 09-01-2012 10:27PM

Yes.

PseudoFamous · 09-01-2012 10:27PM

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 · 09-01-2012 10:32PM

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 · 09-01-2012 10:39PM

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 · 09-01-2012 10:53PM

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 · 09-01-2012 11:17PM

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.

09-01-2012 11:19PM

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 · 09-01-2012 11:26PM

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

philologos · 09-01-2012 11:27PM

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.

I'm an evangelical Christian. I don't want or expect any Government to promote Christianity. That's a job for Christians. We're here to build up our churches and our communities, and we're here to live and speak for Jesus in public life. I'd rather that Christians did this, I'd also rather that people became Christians because they were captivated by the Gospel rather than by coercion.

I think if a president wants to say "So help me God" or something along those lines out of personal preference, I don't have any issue with that. I don't believe it should be compulsory though.

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 )

I think that there shouldn't be red tape around what people say. I think it should be the responsibility of people in society to question, criticise and regulate what other people say rather than the State.

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.

I don't think so, but I don't think that explicit material should be chucked around just for the sake of it. There needs to be safeguards so that children don't see things that they shouldn't and so that people who don't want to see such things don't have to.

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 don't agree with making prostitution llegal. I think society should have a high regard for people, seeing them for who they are rather than as sexual commodities.

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?

Personally, I think that marriage should be between a man and a woman, and I think that children are best raised with a mum and a dad. In the event that same-sex marriage were legal, simply put I'd agree to disagree.

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.

It should be illegal except in respect to medical emergencies. I'd be on the pro-life side of the spectrum.

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.

Adult stem cells are more effective than embryonic stem cells. Indeed, adult stem cells can be used just as effectively as embryonic stem cells (called pluripotent stem cells). I don't believe there's any need to destroy lives in order to produce the desired results.

robman60 wrote: »

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

I don't think so because it's extremely difficult to determine consent in respect to this area.

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.

Absolutely not. I'm not in favour of people taking lives for any form of crime. This is in part informed from Christianity. I believe that I have sinned, yet Jesus died for me, as a result I have no right to encourage the taking of someone elses life.

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'm supportive of the use of marijuana in a medical context only.

robman60 wrote: »

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

I'm only supportive of substances such as these in controlled medical circumstances where necessary.

as125634do · 09-01-2012 11:55PM

Everleigh Ashy Radial wrote: »

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

Thats just stupid im afraid. Anders brehvik killed dozens of kids he should maybe get the death sentence. But a pedo who is attracted to kids cant help this and if it goes out and follows the heart and molests a kid..chances are the offender will kill the kid after the abuse. If theres a death penalty waiting for it then its highly likely itll kill its victim

ProudDUB · 09-01-2012 11:55PM

1. Religion: People should have the freedom to practice or not practice it as they so choose. But in a country with a Christian tradition, I do not think that it is fair for their traditions (such as those at Christmas time) to be done away for fear of offending non Christians. As a Catholic (well someone who was brought up as one) I wouldn't dream of going to Israel/Africa/Middle or Far East, and insist that they refrain from all public demonstrations of their respective faiths just because I do not share them. That would be ridiculous !

2. Freedom of Speech: 100% for it.

3. Censorship: Not in favour of it, unless in extreme circumstances such as stamping out child pornography.

4. Prostitution: For it. It's the worlds oldest profession. Making it illegal ain't gonna make it go away. Legalizing it and more importantly, regulating it (especially in terms of health care and age limits) would go a long way towards get rid of some of the abuse that the ladies of the night suffer at the hands of their pimp masters.

5. Same-sex marriage/adoption: Totally for it. The child of a gay couple may have to face a few more challenges in life, such as dealing with awkward questions from school class mates, lack of acceptance from their parents conservative family members etc etc.(Personally know of 2 cases where that happened.) But the alternative is their spending a life in an orphanage or foster home and being kicked out into the world at age 16 with no one or nothing to fall back on. The adopted child will have come from a stable home environment with 2 loving parents. Statistics show that that child stands a much better chance of going on to have a happy and successful life than the child who spent their formative years in care.

6. Abortion: Against it. Not for religious reasons. I used to be all for it. Woman's right to choose and all that. But then my niece was born (prematurely) a mere 2 weeks after the legal term limit in the US for having an abortion. After 2 months in the hospital she is now a bold and brassy 23 year old. I'll never forget the sight of her miniscule little arms and legs in the incubator as she fought like a mad thing to survive. Just before she was born, how on earth could she be considered just a collection of random cells, and not a real person? Do not believe that there is some magical (or medical) line that is crossed, that makes a foetus go from one to the other.

7. Stem-cell research: Don't know enough about it to have any definite opinions on it.

8. Euthanasia: For it. But only under strictly regulated conditions. Why should a person who is going to die a slow and painful death (from cancer for example) be denied this option? Why should they be made to suffer for years and years, if they themselves want to end their life in a humane and controlled manner?

9. Capital Punishment: Am for it in theory. You willingly take a life, your own should be forfeit. But that is very, very hard to get 100% right 100% of the time. The law and law enforcement is flawed. Human beings can make mistakes. Forensic scientists, police officers and computers can make mistakes. Getting a conviction for a crime can very often come down to what side has the best lawyers, the most money, pressure that may be exerted from the media, politicians, the victims families, the predispositions of the judges and juries etc etc. A person getting to live or die should not decided by a system where so many fluctuating variables are in place and where there is so much room for human error. But if it is a case where there are multiple witnesses to some mad man going on a rampage (like that dude in Norway for example) then yeah, fry his sorry ass !

10. Marijuana: Keep it illegal. It is a gateway drug. Most serious drug users start out on it. Make it as hard to get as possible. Perhaps if people don't get in the habit of enjoying the buzz it brings, they won't get bored by it. The then won't go on to the bigger and better drugs & all of the societal problems that they bring. And trust me, I live near a metadone treatment center in Dublin 1. I know aaaaalllllll about them !

11. Other widely-illegal drugs: Keep them illegal. No brainer really.

10-01-2012 12:07AM

as125634do wrote: »

Everleigh Ashy Radial wrote: »

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

Thats just stupid im afraid. Anders brehvik killed dozens of kids he should maybe get the death sentence. But a pedo who is attracted to kids cant help this and if it goes out and follows the heart and molests a kid..chances are the offender will kill the kid after the abuse. If theres a death penalty waiting for it then its highly likely itll kill its victim

Seriously seriously ? Cant help it so its ok ? And i am stupid ? Great defence in court couldnt help it followed my heart and raped a kid ? Words fail

strobe · 10-01-2012 12:18AM

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.

I'd think that the country should be completely secular, yes. But like Philo said, if a politician feels like mentioning God/Allah/Buddha for some reason, let them at it.

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% freedom of speech? Not Entirely. I don't think you should be able to follow someone around screaming "you're a prick" into their face. That's harassment. I also don't think you should be able to walk into an airport and shout out that you have a bomb. Basically I think the USA have the freedom of speech thing as near to perfect as you will get it. I'd advocate replicating their constitutional rights and how they enforce them in this regard.

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.

Again, much like with FOS I think there has to be limits. Libel laws should be respected and as we all know there are things like child porn which I presume we all agree should be subject to censorship. But in general, unless what you are putting out there things like that I think you should be free to express any view you want online. I'd certainly never advocate censoring anything purely because someone may find it offensive.

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 prostitution should be legal, yes. It is technically legal already here, as far as I know it's just illegal to solicit or advertise, to profit from someone else's prostitution of themselves or to operate a brothel. My opinion is it should be legislated for in roughly the same way modelling, or acting, or carpentry is legislated for.

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?

I think gay people should have the same rights as straight people in every single way. I think all children should have the same rights as each other and all adults should have the same rights as each other. Or as the UNDHR puts it 'All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights.' All humans.

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.

Undecided... still.

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, I think stem cell research should be pursued. If what Philo says above is true, that adult stem cells are just as viable as embryonic then I think they should be favoured over embryonic ones if at all possible.

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

I absolutely think it should be allowed and I think it should be regulated as stringently as humanly possible. I think this would require the introduction of a law against 'coercion towards euthanasia' or something along those lines and I think anyone found guilty of it should be punished in the same way someone found guilty of attempted murder would be.

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

I would not be in favour of the death penalty. Pretty much all the research seems to suggest it is no more effective as a deterrent than life imprisonment. It also doesn't save money, which is another argument for it that seems to be put forward. It costs about as much to ultimately execute someone (in the USA) as it does to force them to serve a life sentence.

I don't think the State should be killing people. But having said that I can imagine scenarios in which I'm pretty certain I would kill someone in revenge. I'd go so far as to try and get to them while they were in prison if they were given a life sentence for the crime. I know this is somewhat hypocritical.

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 legal and regulated.

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

I think all the major psychoactives, including the ones mentioned, should be legal and regulated.

K-9 · 10-01-2012 12:18AM

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?

No.

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

)

Great ideal, but no. Unfortunately people abuse 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.

Yes, devil is in the detail obviously.

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.

The pros (Ahem) outweigh the cons.

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?

Don't see any big issues as to why not.

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, up to 10/12 weeks. Personally I don't like but I hate exporting it even more.

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.

Not really up on this issue.

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

Tough one. I'd have seen it as compassionate with my Dad but I'm reluctant to back it legally. On balance, no.

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. I don't see it as a deterrent, the US a good example.

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.

No reason not to legalise it.

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

Can definitely see the logic in legalising and regulating.

TPD · 10-01-2012 12:21AM

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.
Completely secular. Let people practice their religion in their own homes and on the private lands of others of their religion.
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 )
Complete freedom of 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.
No censorship. Concerned parents/individuals can censor their own/their children's internet.
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.
Legal and regulated. Nothing good comes from pushing it underground into the hands of criminals.
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?
Each to their own, who marries who is none of my concern. Adoption, same deal. I went to school with a guy with two mothers, he was fine.
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.
Legal, up to a point. I'm not well enough versed in biology to say when exactly that point is though. Is there a cutoff at which point the foetus would survive transfer to another womb? If that's even possible.
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.
In favour. Once the embryos aren't stolen from expectant parents.
8. Euthanasia: Do you think voluntary euthanasia should be allowed? How stringently should it be regulated?
Allowed. Regulation? Video evidence of the individuals desire and good mental state, with a majority of immediate family in agreement.
9. Capital Punishment: Are you in favour of the death penalty? Elaborate on when you feel it is/isn't appropriate in your opinion.
Probably a different opinion from most who'd share my other answers, but I'm in favour of capital punishment in extremely rare cases. The punishment isn't the problem at the minute, it's how it's metered out.
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.
Complete legalisation.
11. Other widely-illegal drugs: For drugs such as cocaine, heroin, ecstasy etc. Do you think they should be legal or illegal?
Again, legal. The illegal status causes more harm than it prevents, through gang violence, infection/disease, lack of support programs etc.

Accidentally put a line outside the quote, and now boards wants me to type something here to edit it back into the quotes. Grr.

as125634do · 10-01-2012 12:21AM

Words fail, thats all u have to say?

Suryavarman · 10-01-2012 12:26AM

1. Religion: There should be no mention of religion in the constitution the state should not be promoting any religion. Saying that I wouldn't really care if there was a Christmas tree in a state building.

2. Freedom of Speech: Yes, I am fully in favour of 100% free speech. This includes allowing people to slander, blackmail or shout fire in the cinema.

3. Censorship: No censorship under any circumstances.

4. Prostitution: As far as I am concerned saying prostitution should be illegal is the same as saying sex itself should be illegal. So yes prostitution should most definitely be legal. What happens between consenting adults on private property is nobodies business, especially the governments.

5. Same-sex marriage/adoption: I'd prefer to completely see the government out of marriage. The concept of having to get permission from the government to marry somebody is embarrassingly ridiculous. The second best alternative is to legalise marriage though. As for adoption, I can't think of any moral argument against it and I am not aware of any practical argument against it, so yes gay people should be allowed to adopt.

6. Abortion: I am pro-choice up to the point of viability.

7. Stem-cell research: I've never really given it any thought but I'm pretty sure it should be legal.

8. Euthanasia: I'm fully in favour of allowing people to end their lives.

9. Capital Punishment: Fully against allowing the state to murder anybody.

10. Marijuana: Fully in favour of legalisation. Why should anybody have the right to tell somebody what they can and can't put into their body?

11. Other widely-illegal drugs: I'm fully in favour of legalising them. There is a thread on this in the Irish Economy forum and I'm still waiting for a decent argument to keep them illegal.

Sindri wrote: »

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.

In that case would you be in favour of legalising infanticide? If after a few months the woman decides she no longer wishes to keep the child should she be allowed to kill it?

ProudDUB wrote: »

10. Marijuana: Keep it illegal. It is a gateway drug. Most serious drug users start out on it. Make it as hard to get as possible. Perhaps if people don't get in the habit of enjoying the buzz it brings, they won't get bored by it, and then go on to the bigger and better drugs & all of the societal problems that they bring. And trust me, I live near a metadone treatment center in Dublin 1. I know aaaaalllllll about them !

Surely in that case Alcohol and tobacco should illegal. I'm spretty sure that most if not all heroin addicts have sampled both of those at some point.

K-9 · 10-01-2012 12:39AM

as125634do wrote: »

Words fail, thats all u have to say?

In fairness I don't think its a thread people can go into a big debate on, or you'll have 11 different debates going!. I'd say all of these topics have been discussed on AH at one stage or another.

It's interesting to see inconsistencies in answers to some questions, my own has some too I'm sure, but hey, that's life!

I'd agree though that the just having paedos for the death penalty is purely based on emotion.

AH: What is your Stance on These Social Issues.

Comments