The Spork solution 27 May 2005
Saif S Rathore,
Student
Yale University School of Medicine
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Re: The Spork solution
This editorial raises an important issue - how best to reduce the tools available for use in violent activities. Having virtually eliminated handgun-related crimes, it is reassuring to realize that those concerned with the public's health are now addressing another leading source, sharp knives. My only complaint is that this action has taken too long. We have strong evidence - well over 4000+ years of recorded human history - documenting the horror knives inflict on the world. Why have we waited until 2005 to consider addressing this issue?
I would further suggest that we pre-emptively act (a concept that's quite popular in government circles on both sides of the pond) to eliminate other putative tools of violence. Continuing the culinary theme, I suggest that forks be removed next. Forks present several sharp edges that may be used for harm. Much as no parent would encourage their child to play with knives, few would offer them a fork as a replacement. Anecdotal evidence from correctional facilities suggests that forks are often used as weapons. In lieu of forks, I suggest that we adopt the spork. The fast food spork - the hybrid spoon fork widely available in North America - provides much of the benefits of the fork with few of its risks. Based on this more advantageous side effect profile, the spork merits adoption, recognizing that data concerning its cost-effectiveness and utility in various sub-groups remains unassessed.
I encourage the BMA to adopt a pro-spork platoform fortwith.
Good thing he wrote instead of calling them since they wouldn't have understood him with his tongue so firmly tucked into his cheek
Michael R Neal,
Retired
Home,
pe304et
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Re: Control Group.
I feel that the authors are too close to the coal face. It will feel to a busy M.O.that every man and his dog is being damaged by kitchen knives. If they were to step back and apply some scientific reasoning,they would discover that SEVERAL MILLION people manage to co-exist with kitchen knives without harming themselves or others. Surely the fault must lie with the sociopathic individuals rather than with inanimate objects. By the way,the picture seems to show a slash injury rather than a punture wound inflicted by a pointy knife.
I wonder if pointing out the obvious had any impact on their position?
Are you missing the point? 30 May 2005
Harvey J. Marrable,
Semi retired Child Psychiatrist
Gosford NSW 2250 Australia
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Re: Are you missing the point?
Unhappy children grow up to be angry adults. Angry adults are liable to outbursts of rage and impulsive violence. Children raised by contented parents tend to be happy. To reduce the outbursts of domestic and road rage (unheard of a generation ago) look to ways of supporting families and helping them to care for their children. Forget weapons.
Competing interests: I am a Child Psychiatrist
Ahh, someone points out it's the person and not the object behind the violence