On Thu, 22 Apr 2004 01:05:13 +0100, "John Rowland"
wrote:

"Paul Corfield" wrote in message
.. .

I'm genuinely surprised to see that list -
I thought you made of stronger stuff John!.

I once was, but a drug addict with a knife taught me a valuable lesson.

OK - I can respect that.

Doing necessary dangerous things shows courage, and is to be respected.
Doing unnecessary dangerous things shows stupidity, and deserves no respect.

I needed to go into a council estate last week - on the way in I witnessed a
police chase, and shortly after that the road was shut. As soon as the road
was opened I drove in and walked around. I do it when I have to. Most people
have no need to go into council estates, so it is stupid for them to do it.

I think I disagree with the use of the word "stupid". I don't really
want to get into semantics but "ill advised" might give a better
meaning. I know what you are saying but your concerns are helping to
reinforce the ghetto attitude that increasingly pervades this country.
Please note I am not having a go at *you* with my comments.

We are accepting by default that it is somehow "right" for non locals
not to go and see a council estate or visit it. This means that those
who do live there get their ghetto mentality re-inforced. And
consequentially those people who live in "better" places feel smugger
and more self justified in avoiding the council estates. I find it all
very sad as I see it as one of my human rights to be able to go where I
want (within reason) unhindered and under the protection of the law (and
police officers).
--
Paul C


Admits to working for London Underground!