[BigV]

While we're all just thinking out loud here...

This is an example of the difference between lib/con/red/blue/right/left etc that generates much confusion, headlines and friction.

*Mandatory* sentences, maybe mandatory life sentences would eliminate this problem altogether. You did the crime, game over. Maybe even capital punishment. Even shorter anguish. It masks the problem with a superficial simplicity. "Problem solved".

But then what of the other thread floating around out there, what about the 17 year old in jail for this?!?! thread? Should the subject of that thread be "simplified" permanently with a life sentence or a death sentence? If not, where do you draw the line? Under what circumstances are you willing to consider other factors?

Which brings me to the base conflict: Simple answers that are easy to apply but fit most situations poorly, or better more appropriate solutions that require more effort/cost to develop? Simplicity versus Nuance?

Which is probably a good indicator of why I'm a Liberal--I am willing to spend the extra effort to find a better answer and I consider those who prejudge a situation and apply an answer without much thought lazy. It's very frustrating.

I don't have the answer to McNeil Island or that freeway enclave. But I do know that it's messed up and that a better answer can be found. But only be talking and working together, and just turning your back on the situation and calling it good since you can't see it anymore.