Posted by MikeT23 on 1/25/2011 2:57:00 PM (view original):
Posted by genghisxcon on 1/25/2011 2:43:00 PM (view original):
I would guess that much more than 5% is capable of murder. Arguably, 100% may be capable, under the right circumstances. The 5% was just a (ridiculously low, IMO) figure for people who are being held back by legal consequences. And that doesn't mean they'd suddenly start killing everyone they met. It may just mean they'd kill one or two people whom they find dispicable. And you're right, it isn't as simple as point and squeeze. Part of what makes it not so simple are the consequences.
Let's go back to my example. Suppose 500 people you've spoken in the forums are given guns and license to kill you. Are you confident you'll survive? Remember, if 499 don't shoot you, you still lose.
I think it's insane to believe that even 5% of the adult population could murder someone under any circumstance beyond self-defense(which, as you know, is NOT murder). I think you need to look up the meaning of "murder". Laws don't stop it.
If you're asking me if there's a hardened criminal capable of murder amongst us, I guess there is that possibility. I'd bet against it.
Suppose your new neighbor is a rapist who got off on a technicality. Suppose he's been checking out your 15-year-old daughter. I'm guessing quite a few people would have no problem killing him, especially if they know they wouldn't be punished.
Back to our example. I am not asking you if there is a hardened criminal amonst us. I'm asking if you are sure that there is no one who is willing to get rid of you if there are no consequences.