[quote=mdk]
I think you misunderstand. I'm arguing that violence is the cornerstone of legitimate authority. When I said 'Prison is the humane alternative,' I meant it sardonically. As in, 'Look what being nice got you.' It's a hellish cess-pool where stronger, more violent men seize powers that we, in our civil discretion, refused to take.
[/quote]

Aw okay. I say voilence can be a form of legitimate authority, but it truly comes down to power which can be enacted through altruistic means as well, as stances of authority are entirely situational.