by Matt Barr

Carnival of Liberty XX

Carnival of Liberty XX is up at Eric's Grumbles Before the Grave. Among the contributions, Tom Hanna says there is no "split" in the conservative movement whereby social conservatives and libertarian conservatives are parting ways. "Smart libertarians have long understood that strong families and strong local institutions, including churches and including local governments closest to the voters, are the most effective counter to increased federal power." He's right, and great use of the adjective as the first word! Plenty of libertarians (not LWOPs) think the Sheeple talking to their imaginary friends at church are so square they should be marginalized and-- is that a bong?

The Wrightwing has a thoughtful post on the justice of denying felons firearms, when we don't shut down the New York Times for printing false information, or CBS News for making stuff up. "If we can not trust someone with their full palette of Rights, after they have completed whatever restitution and sentence imposed, they should not be set free." I'm attracted to the argument, and have offered it before in the context of sex offender registration, but I think there are differences. Someone who "abuses" their Second Amendment right is more likely to deprive another citizen of their life, liberty or property than someone who "abuses" their First Amendment right, insofar as speech competes in a marketplace where bad ideas (and lies) are perfectly capable of being countered. With a gun, even assuming the target is armed herself, the "marketplace" often closes up after the first shot. But mainly, that's quibbling on the margins. Read the post.

Finally, Resistance is Futile! breaks the shocking news that you can still buy Sudafed over the counter in some harrowing black market places like the law school in Eugene, Ore. "How many meth makers are, right at this moment, grabbing their ingredients at the University of Oregon? How much meth is entering the stream of commerce thanks to my school? What can we do to keep our children safe? THINK OF THE CHILDREN!"

Just a sample, as always, go browse the whole Carnival and patronize the most interesting sounding posts. You may find a good new blog or two!

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