General Discussion

I hope that murder convictions provide some sort of deterrence. I also hope that children are urged by parents and peers to not engage in dangerous or destructive pranks. If you want to split hairs, telling others that they must abandon some of their parental methods in favor of yours isn’t technically criticism, but it kinda smells like it. I do agree that parents have an important role in guiding their children through the hazards of a world not of their making, but traditionally our society has tried to protect children both from their actions and the actions of others. I don’t want to resign ourselves into thinking crazy idiots with guns are uncontrollable forces of nature. At some point, lessons need to be learned about the limits of “stand your ground” or “the castle doctrine.” This tragic event is good as any.