Not disagreeing with you and your country's choice, DtG, but I have a little difficulty with your idea that debate is invalid and purely academic.

Societal attitudes change over time. I don't know for sure, but I assume that at some point the Canadian public (I've lived in Canada now for more than 33 years) actually supported the ban on capital punishment. As I said, I'm not sure it ever happened, but even if it did I can't understand what's happened since. Poll after poll in the last 10 or 15 years has shown the public supports capital punishment -- with margins ranging from 52 to 64 per cent. But the government REFUSES, even under pressure from the opposition, to put the question to a vote again.

Democracy? Not in a parliamentary system where the Prime Minister, once elected, is a virtual god. Sure, the electorate can throw him out, but as long as he's in power party discipline makes his power nearly absolute.

cheers,

david