The nerf gun is neat, it really is. Its got little rubber ammo discs, and its a fun game to play. Here's the dilemma. I was in the toy store, buying Christmas presents. I went to look at the nerf guns. Some of the nerf guns were assault nerf guns with ammo clips.
I felt a sudden deep revulsion. Images of Aurora and Newtown came unbidden. And I couldn't buy the toy.
But another part of me was thinking "Don't be daft. A nerf gun is just a toy, and its existence has no correlation to lunatics going on a killing rampage. Buying won't create the next psychopath, and not buying will not stop him." I still didn't buy it, though. And I feel like that was irrational.
After all, I buy them toys that I know have been made in China, probably in sweatshop conditions. Some of the toys were probably made with child labor. My son has a batmobile, and a ton super-testosterone action figures. My daughter has Barbies, with Barbie clothes that belong in the wardrobe of a high class hooker. I don't buy all organic food. There's a hundred things in my life that are out of synch with my value system, because practicality and convenience tend to win out. So why am I freaking out about a stupid toy gun?
Thoughts?