November 1, 2007
Improper punctuation a harbinger of misinformation
Semicolons are used correctly when they separate two complete but related main clauses; or, the punctuation can be employed to distinguish between dependent clauses in a series. The semicolon in Mr. Dan Stusek’s letter is an example of the incorrect usage. Danny Boy’s ignorance of the rules of grammar parallels quite effectively his misunderstanding of the motivations behind responsible drug policy.
He makes assumptions – his words not mine – conflating those of us who advocate for pragmatic public policy with half-baked, opportunistic idlers who simply want to get high. It demonstrates a monumental lack of awareness on Danny Boy’s part, especially as a political science major. The initiative passed here in Missoula County, the forum concerning rights, those confounded letters to the editor, are all microcosms of the general response to the failed drug policy, which has plagued our nation. If it is cold, hard cash that you would like to discuss Danny Boy, you could start by addressing the ineffective War on Drugs, which siphons billions of dollars out of American pockets each year. And, as a matter of fact, the University does offer a course similar to the hypothetical you proposed. It is titled Pharmacy 110 Use and Abuse of Drugs, and I would highly suggest you take it. I will try to restrain myself from enumerating every substantial flaw in your letter, excepting the bizarre contradiction of the forum being valid despite your suggestion of the necessity for one to be a habitual drug user to drive anything productive from it, or your failed analogy about old or disabled individuals falling on ice (When would that ever be funny? At first, but not after reflection?). I hope that in the future you will exercise equal restraint in not submitting drivel, something the Kaimin already has no shortage of.
Adam Tew,
junior, English
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