Letters
Letters to the editor
Highlands Today
Published: December 23, 2012
Rights vs. rightsPublished: December 23, 2012
"There is no such thing as an absolute right."
I first heard these words in a college political science class back in the '60s. The professor — the most conservative member of his department — supported American involvement in Vietnam and firmly believed that property rights took precedent over the civil and environmental rights issues of the day. Yet he recognized that unrestricted freedom for some was a danger to all.
Upon reflection, I have come to see the wisdom of his simple pronunciation during that very tumultuous time in our nation's history. His words still resonate today in the heated debate over gun rights vs. gun control.
Second Amendment absolutists might consider the consequences of applying their dogma to other rights. Does freedom of speech protect obscene phone calls or child pornography? Does the right to assembly allow blocking traffic during rush hour? Does the freedom of religion sanction animal or human rights in the name of god(s)?
Regarding gun issues, does the right to bear arms permit felons to own them? Are weapons designed for military use allowed at sporting events, churches or schools? Is it time for further regulation of these weapons that are not designed for sporting use or home defense?
That same professor continued by proclaiming that "the freedom to swing your fist ends right where someone's nose begins." Those who point to a certain quote in the Constitution need to focus on the entire document. Like any good work, start at the beginning — in this case, the Preamble.
"To insure domestic tranquility" and "to promote the general welfare" have been used by the courts to settle disputes when both litigants claimed the Constitution was on their side. In the end, one right must trump the other. One is right, the other is wrong.
Thank you, Dr. Kvam, for your keen insights that encapsulate over 200 years of Constitutional interpretation. If only your wisdom would carry over into the 21st century.
Ed Engler
Sebring