So my choice is either
a 'fascist' society (its a constitutional monarchy with democratic, but authoritarian leanings) where we have to be ever vigilant about creeping controls, and a police force that knows who I am, and if I come to their attention by breaking their laws, they can track me
or
a 'free' society, where we have to be ever vigilant about everybody we see and talk to, as they can all deal instant death close up and at a distance. Where every asshole, thug, bully and person just generally having a bad day can kill anyone for anything as long as they can convince their neighbours that it was reasonable (or they still have their gun out!). Where those with biggest guns and best organization control everything they want, and can take anything they want.
Right. That was a hard choice. Meanwhile, you've talked me into it. They are issuing the test IDs on the ground floor of this building. I'll go and join the queue. Trying not to step on anyone's toes in the process, of course.
Slashdot Mirror
So my choice is either a 'fascist' society (its a constitutional monarchy with democratic, but authoritarian leanings) where we have to be ever vigilant about creeping controls, and a police force that knows who I am, and if I come to their attention by breaking their laws, they can track me or a 'free' society, where we have to be ever vigilant about everybody we see and talk to, as they can all deal instant death close up and at a distance. Where every asshole, thug, bully and person just generally having a bad day can kill anyone for anything as long as they can convince their neighbours that it was reasonable (or they still have their gun out!). Where those with biggest guns and best organization control everything they want, and can take anything they want. Right. That was a hard choice. Meanwhile, you've talked me into it. They are issuing the test IDs on the ground floor of this building. I'll go and join the queue. Trying not to step on anyone's toes in the process, of course.