Smoking ban

[lnr]

Lots of people are talking about the UK plan to totally ban smoking in enclosed public places which was voted through yesterday evening. Most of my friends list who have commented seem keen, though some have reservations. I'm curious as to what those who've not said anything yet feel. Do propogate this as widely as you like. Personally I think it's a good move, though I would have been as happy with the amendment which allowed smoking in private clubs. I do think a total ban in pubs is an excellent step. And no, I don't smoke, though I have in the past been in the "Well... a bit " category. - oh yeah and just to add I am still occasionally tempted if I'm out with one of the few friends who smoke. [Poll #673518]

Comments

[beingjdc.livejournal.com]

But the majority might want to smoke, that doesn't mean the minority shouldn't be allowed in what is their student union - as a thought experiment, consider the case of a student union which was racially segregated at the instigation of the white majority.

[artela.livejournal.com]

Big difference - smoking is a legal pursuit, racism isn't.

[beingjdc.livejournal.com]

You can't argue against making something illegal on the basis that it's currently legal! Racism is legal in private, just like smoking will be soon.

[artela.livejournal.com]

?
I'm not on about making something illegal - I'm on about members of a club choosing for themselves whether or not they allow a legal pursuit to take place in their club or not, as per the wish of the membership majority.

[beingjdc.livejournal.com]

Yes, and 'being a racist' is perfectly legal. But we do not allow members of a club to allow it to take place in their club, regardless of the wishes of the membership majority.

[ms-saffie.livejournal.com]

I think you're using the analogy of racism, to minimise the fact that you don't really have a balanced view-point on this. It's embarassing for people to be (sort of) likened to a racist because they express a certain opinion, based upon certain beliefs - such as the freedom of choice.
Maybe if you explained your opinion/arguement in a less emotive manner it would be more interesting/compelling?

[beingjdc.livejournal.com]

I've done the arguing blandly about it to death though, really. Basically in my view smoking = physical aggression which harms me. It should be banned in public just like walking up to people and slapping them.