A Philosophy
In its simplest form, the Good Neighbor philosophy is simple. Just because you think something is a good idea doesn't mean it should become a law.
Would you feel comfortable knocking on your neighbor's door and informing him a new rule and he must obey? If he refuses, you tell him you'll send someone with a gun to force him to comply, take some of his money or take him away.
If you feel you need to force someone to do something against their will, ask yourself if you'd like that same force turned on you?
Our Approach
Our Story
A Beginning
The 2013 Vermont Sportsman's Act included a rule that denied you the opportunity for an antlerless deer permit if you posted your property against trespassing.
I'm not a big deer hunter. But that bit of regulation made me think. Some neighbor, a couple hours away from me, just decided to try and force me to comply with his will. We don't know each other. We've never met. He doesn't even know where I live but, if I wanted to get this permit, I'd have to comply with his wishes and leave my land open for others. Not very neighborly. (For the record, I don't post my land)
It also made me think, if it wasn't for the power of the state, would he be willing to come knock on my door and instruct me as to how I was to manage my land? If some guy came knocking on my door and suggested this rule, how would I respond?
These seem like considerations that are getting overlooked a lot lately. I'm planning on exploring them here.
Also, I've never created a political philosophy before. Please, bear with me as this blog evolves. I appreciate and welcome your insights and feedback.