I was out driving today and came to a major intersection. There were several men at each spoke walking up and down the streets, along the medians, between lanes, asking for donations. I'm not sure what they were collecting money for.
I found myself thinking, "this is a little annoying, do they have a permit for this?" Gasp! A permit?! Why should they need a permit? Why do they need the government's permission to try to raise money for their cause.
I quickly realized the error and inconsistency of my thoughts. Sure, I might find it annoying to be bothered while I'm driving. In fact, it was all a bit silly anyways since they did not even "accost" me. They were not doing any harm to anyone. They were not damaging property. There was no violation of basic rights. As such, there is no reasonable need for a permit even if it were required.
There are things in life which may annoy us. But, unless these things are forced upon us and violate our basic rights, there is really no need to create laws or regulations. The overwhelming power of the government and system of laws has become second nature to us. It has come to the point where people are quick to desire a pet law to help manage a pet peeve.
It may seem like a small thing. But, the government has no business with such things. We have allowed government to use force to make our lives easier rather than protect and defend. The U.S. was not meant to be this way. The expansion of democracy through the Progressive Era, a Supreme Court which has endorsed a Living Constitution, and an electoral system designed to protect incumbents and special interests have all contributed to a society which prefers to live by the creation of new laws rather than by freedom and liberty.
Next time you find yourself thinking that we need a new law or that a particular good or service needs to be taxed, take a step back and reflect. Are you trying to manage a pet peeve with a pet law, or are you truly trying to protect your rights to life, liberty or property?
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