[USMA:36155] Response to Freedom2Measure

[Bill Hooper]

I wrote a response to the Freedom2Measure group regarding their web site at:  I am afraid they already are. Check out http://www.freedom2measure.org Below is a copy of my response in case any of you are interested. Regards, Bill Hooper Fernandina Beach, Florida, USA ==========================   (Begin Copy) I respect your right to oppose adoption of the metric system in the US and I hope you respect my right to favor it. If you do, I hope you will take a moment to consider my comments, just as I took the time to read yours on your web site. You wrote: Unelected, unaccountable bureaucrats are trying to take your way of measuring away from you. The laws passed that promote metric were passed by our representatives in Congress, who were elected by the people. The Constitution gives the Congress the authority to establish a system of weights and measures for the US. Metrication is unnecessary and expensive. Of course it is unnecessary; so is just about everything else! The question is "Is it desirable". I think it is because the metric systems saves time, effort AND MONEY. And as far as "expensive" is concerned, the costs are minor and occur once, at the time of conversion, while the savings occur continually forever once conversion has been done. Therefore, in the long run conversion is LESS expensive than continuing to use the more complicated Olde English measurements. Worst of all compulsory metrication is undemocratic. Who ever asked you if you wanted the metric system? Whoever asked ME if I wanted to use the Olde English system? I prefer metric. A uniform system of weights and measures is desirable in all societies and I believe the one system we should use is the best and simplest one: the metric system.. Our traditional, customary American weights and measures are units that we know and use easily. First, they are not American, they were brought to the colonies by the British. And even the British are abandoning them now! Second, we use them easily only because we know them. Once we know the metric system (as 95% of the rest of the world's population already does) we will find metric measures are easy, too. Metrication ... will mean that a large percentage of Americans will be cut off from understanding measurement. Right now a large part of the American population is cut off from using a simpler system because the Olde English system is forced upon us. I think Americans are smart. (Don't you?) I think they can learn the metric system easily and then, in a short time, begin reaping the rewards of a simpler, more efficient system of measurement. Respectfully, Bill Hooper Fernandina Beach, Florida