petes wrote:As an extension to this statement, it's probably reasonable to say: "The important thing is that drivers drive at a speed appropriate to conditions, but not exceeding the speed limit for that particular section of road".
Whilst it's entirely debatable whether some speed limits are appropriate, it's less subjective whether they should be obeyed.
now you are getting into philosophical discussion...
- if law is simply a construct of mankind
- and law is only temporary based on the personal perspectives of those in power and creating the law
- and we can all quote examples of laws in countries around the world which should not be obeyed
- at what point / who decides which laws should / shouldn't be obeyed...
is it down to moral outrage of the chattering middle classes
is it down to some ethical or moral framework underpinning our society (does that even exist any more?)
is it down to cold clear scientifically based fact
there is an argument that says that our political system is flawed and based on a minority influencing / ruling the rest - so is law the construct of a minority and therefore by its nature might not be the majority view?
could you free the country of law and see how people behave, and then map behaviour to law to determine the most accurate pattern of behaviour desired by the people?
is it morally reprehensible to drive at 60 in a 30 past a school - most would argue yes, is it the same issue driving at 60 in a 30 zone just outside a village with no turnings / no houses / no school children / no hazards? if so, why? - if not then the law is not consistent / absolute...
is a 30 / 40 / 50 zone which has been put in for politial reasons (avoid having to repair roads / anti motoring brigade in power in the local council / etc.) and more or less law than a zone set up correctly based on an analytical approach around safety and hazards?
is a speed marking system which is no longer consistent, (but based on politics, not genuine need) one which should be observed?
lots of questions - but what is clear above all else is that speed & the law in a political context is not a simple black and white question which all should mindlessly accept and obey without any thinking...
Alasdair