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In the debate about illegal immigration the phrase "they're breaking the law, why is there even a discussion" comes up all the time.
I think that's a very poor argument for progressive people.
Does that mean we shouldn't fight the death penalty (those of us who are against it) because "it's the law, so why are we even discussing it?" ?
Does that mean people should refrain from smoking marijuana until it's allowed legally because "it's the law, so why are we even discussing it" ?
Does that mean that we should just accept the new bankruptcy law because, now, "it's the law, so why are we even discussing it" ?
"Why is there even a discussion about prostitution in the states where it's illegal?"
As you can see, the list of examples can go on and on and on. And with many current topics, no need to refer to the "blacks are 3/5 people issue".
Now, you can certainly argue that the current law regarding illegal immigration is morally and politically correct and therefore should be supported and enforced.
A debate at that level would be worth of progressives.
But just saying "it's the law" is by its very definition a most conservative position.
Although some DUers support the death penalty and others don't, when the issue is debated noone just says "it's the law, killers should just accept it period". Everybody believes it makes sense to at least debate a more benign law for killers. Why should we hold illegal immigrants to a higher standard?
On the other hand, I realize that debating (and being willing to break) each and every law would make social life quite difficult.
So what is your possition? When should we question a law? When (if ever) should we support breaking a law? Are there any instances when "it's the law" can be the final answer to an argument?
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