There are things in the environment that can kill you.  The smart thing to do would be to outlaw as much of the dangerous items as possible.  Some people are already pushing us in that direction - trying to outlaw smoking, guns, fast foods, and fat altogether. 

Now the local science fair is getting in on the act.  A high school student won the top prize with his petition to outlaw dihydrogen monoxide.  It can be some of the most dangerous stuff if used incorrectly, and it even contributes to erosion causing billions of dollars in damage each year.  I guess it should be outlawed.

There is just one problem.  The chemical his petition refers to is water.   And although water can be dangerous when used improperly, I hardly think that outlawing its use could help anyone and in the end it would probably kill even more people – especially given that we are 80% water.

It makes me wonder how much of the concern that is placed on all the “bad” things in this world is just hype created by the media, special interest groups, Hollywood, and politicians.  Maybe instead of outlawing everything, we should find ways to use the resources we have in a responsible manner that is beneficial for all involved.