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Big Brother's Authoritative Streak - The Problem With Using Laws

The Nut Graph posted this little piece over here that is another indication of how the Malaysian government feels it needs to tell us, the honest people, how to live our lives. Just like the peaceful assembly act, just like the Universities and Colleges act, the Race Relations Act is yet another attempt of plugging in loopholes in our dysfunctional society. It's a stop gap measure that big brother uses all too often.

Don't get me wrong, I find racism and discrimination of any sort repulsive. But the sheer audacity of the state to assume authority to control society is... quite contrary to the enlightenment, and egalitarian principles. It's sort of like repairing a damaged wooden village house. They take a plank and a hammer and hammer away to seal a gap, rather carelessly. Cracks and problems start to appear few years down the road as all manner of cretins manage to squeeze their way in through the impenetrable 'act'.

The fact is, people will always find ways to get past whatever legislation. Plus, it is highly suspect if the government is even serious in a proper race relations act considering some of the government own 'questionable' practise. You can't preach anti racism/discrimination to everyone and practise something similar in your own backyard. Half past six measure are not needed.

Laws are a crude tools of authority to subjugate people into 'socially' acceptable behaviour. But who defines what is socially acceptable? DO we trust our government to define this? The ONLY way to combat racism and discrimination is in the public castigation of it. Public discourse and the vilification of socially destructive behaviour. So Malaysians, do not stay passive and quiet. Speak up, lest the fascist, the racists, those that endanger our common sense have the better of all of us. Say no to state intervention. People power all the way!


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