- Joined
- Feb 4, 2012
- Messages
- 25,566
- Reaction score
- 36,346
- Location
- American Refugee in Europe
- Gender
- Male
- Political Leaning
- Independent
States have a funny way of showing what they think is and is not their business. Here in Alabama, there is no lottery, and all forms of gambling-based games are illegal. In multiple counties in this state, they're "dry". Alcohol cannot be sold within county lines, and it is illegal to possess even in ways that's legal anywhere else.
Do I think that states should legislate morality? No, of course not. However, I'm not going to get on a soapbox and say it's my "right" to go and have a beer at any place I want, or to buy a scratch-off at the local convenience store because I suddenly feel the need to.
I certainly think it is your right to do those things. It's not the same kind of right as one granted by the constitution, but more of a natural right. You have a natural right to control your own body. When the state steps in and stops you from doing something that harms no one, they are interfering with your freedom. You own your own body, and you possess the right to make associations and contracts with whom you choose.