> Instead of allowing stupid genes to be naturally > eliminated from the population our politicians introduce laws that try > to reduce the serious consequences of stupid behaviour by the stupid. My God, people, the girl DIED. It was certainly a stupid move, but teenagers do stupid things, and she DIED of a fractured skull in front of her friends, teachers, and classmates. These cold-hearted comments are completely uncalled for. No one has filed a lawsuit (yet) - so it's a bit too soon to start going off on how this relates to American attitudes on litigation. No "politicians" have yet introduced laws to prevent teenagers from sliding down bannisters in museums in Chicago. I have no problem with public places being made as safe as reasonably possible, with railings, barriers, and warnings. Some people are stupid, and others are just unlucky, or clumsy. Children do unpredictable and yes, stupid, things. I'd rather they not die. I have no problem with reasonable regulations to make places safer. I have no problem with "politicians" (otherwise known as the officials we elected) introducing such legislation. I have no problem with our court system holding organizations and individuals accountable for preventable violations of laws involving public safety. (and this accident in Chicago probably doesn't fall into this category). Just show a little compassion here, please. Carol Ely Museum consultant Louisville ========================================================= Important Subscriber Information: The Museum-L FAQ file is located at http://www.finalchapter.com/museum-l-faq/ . You may obtain detailed information about the listserv commands by sending a one line e-mail message to [log in to unmask] . The body of the message should read "help" (without the quotes). If you decide to leave Museum-L, please send a one line e-mail message to [log in to unmask] . The body of the message should read "Signoff Museum-L" (without the quotes).