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I have been reading The Japanese Sword Column and thought it may be of niche interest to other Soylentils. It is written by Paul Martin, a noted British expert of Japanese swords. From the introduction:
Along with cherry blossoms and Mount Fuji, the Japanese sword has become one of the enduring symbols of Japan. It has experienced centuries of warfare, evolved through Mongol invasions, survived the introduction of the musket, the end of the samurai era, modernization, and confiscation and destruction by the Allied forces following World War II. They are an anachronism in modern society, yet they continue to be made. They are an integral part of Japanese culture.
Today, I feel very fortunate that we have access to Japanese swords and can observe the artistry of blades that were previously only accessible by Japan's ancient military and social elites.
I particularly enjoyed the July 25th article, The Changes in the Shape of the Japanese Sword. The articles are short, update infrequently and have plenty of pictures of museum-quality swords. A good fit for those with a casual interest in the subject.
(Score: 3, Insightful) by The Mighty Buzzard on Tuesday October 10 2017, @01:34PM (4 children)
Because they're extremely efficient and because your prey, and the competing predators, are also fairly likely to have them. Throwing away a more efficient means of violence isn't anything but foolish for either predator or prey.
I know many a mother tried to teach us that violence never solves anything. They lied though. It has been proven so many times throughout history that it can solve things quickly and efficiently that the statement itself can only come from those who place wishful thinking above observable fact.
My rights don't end where your fear begins.
(Score: 2) by LoRdTAW on Tuesday October 10 2017, @03:59PM (2 children)
My argument was against your wording: "The strong still prey on the weak." My argument is the criminal is weak because they steal the hard work of others. They are opportunists. They aren't fearsome warriors whose combative skills outmatch their prey/victim. No. You usually have some scrawny little shit with a gun or knife going around looking for drug money. Their strength comes from the weapon.
(Score: 2) by The Mighty Buzzard on Tuesday October 10 2017, @04:20PM (1 child)
Fair enough. I can appreciate a good bit of pedantry.
My rights don't end where your fear begins.
(Score: 2) by LoRdTAW on Tuesday October 10 2017, @06:19PM
The wording bothered me as it portrays armed criminals as fearsome warriors when it's almost always the exact opposite. It takes work to become a strong person which runs counter to the criminals opportunistic nature.
(Score: 0) by Anonymous Coward on Tuesday October 10 2017, @05:24PM
Or, said another way and in the spirit of TFR