When we think of crime, be honest, we flash on a random act of malice or violence that deprives an innocent victim of something... like a mugging, a smash-and-grab, or passing a bad check. I think we are totally off-base thinking like that. While surely crimes, the wrongful acts perpetrated by desperate societal bottom-enders, outcasts and thugs mostly pale in comparison to the crimes of their biggers and betters.
Crime pays and pays big if you are a big enough fish to begin with. So there is motive enough. And there is infrastructure aplenty. Career politicianhood and powerful large business and union interests have a game table that is beautifully set for all manners of turpitude. Government grafts and in return harasses, maims or kills those who would be obstacles to unlimited enrichment of their commercial cronies.
At the highest levels, we are treated to extortive ultimatums from the Hank Paulsons and Jerry Browns of the world - GIVE ME (MORE OF) YOUR MONEY NOW OR ELSE!!! Or else what? The corrupt power structure might suffer a setback or even, perish the thought, a humpty-dumpty fall? I for one am tired of our so-called leaders and exemplars sticking us up and shaking us down. More taxes? Clean up your own house first and then maybe we'll talk. Bankster bailouts - why do they deserve many-zero bonuses for taking guaranteed debt arbitrage trades from the Fed and Treasury?
I have had serious reservations about gun ownership for most of my life. My opinion is changing. I no longer vest much trust in institutions. In cities like San Francisco, there is annoying and sometimes life threatening crime all around; it will never go on the endangered species list. Police response is muted at best. Why not? None of the swelling ranks of six-figure plus pensionistas answer calls. Government economics wizards have been robbing savers of their savings via ZIRP and a depreciating dollar for years now with no end in sight. And now we are treated to Armed Forces "training exercises" on city streets... Got Guns?
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