Reply #6: I think that statements about what one would do in any situation is nonsensical.

[Tierra_y_Libertad]

"If I were him...." "If someone broke into my house I'd...". The truth being that none of us can say what we would do. But, there's a helluva big chorus telling us what they'd do and/or what we should do.

As to choices. When I was a counselor, some of my clients made some unquestionably bad choices. After much experience, and a good dose of therapy, (4 years of it) I was finally, and grudgingly, able to learn that people will make their own decisions no matter how stupid or insane. Or, how many alternatives I proffered. I also learned that it was up to me to make my own choices depending on what I was actually capable of and willing to do. The willing part is the rub because it forced me to face myself.

The real answer to the question, "What would I do if..." is "I don't know." When faced with the option of extending my enlistment to go to Vietnam, (though the gunny sergeant was reluctant to admit that would be the outcome) I refused. Afterwords, when I was (fairly) safely out. I asked myself would I have gone if they ordered me to? Probably. But, I really don't know. Would I have shot at people that didn't know, had nothing against, and might even have liked, if ordered to? Again, I don't know.

Valor vs Quixotic? Another tough one. Do we only act with the assurance of victory? I hope not.

One of my grudges against politicians is that, in most cases, that is exactly what they do.

In that case, it is back to me. Do I vote for them as the "lesser of two evils" and "not as bad" as the other guy? Do I vote against them knowing my vote is Quixotic, in that it will have no measurable effect?

You know, old friend, now that I'm thinking about it, I believe that most of what I do in these arenas is follow my gut instinct and my conscience in any situation.