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Evidently he doesn't realize that this is like asking for addition or subtraction to be outlawed, which is nonsensical. Like adding, subtracting, multiplying,
by cs702 11y ago
Evidently he doesn't realize that this is like asking for addition or subtraction to be outlawed, which is nonsensical.
Like adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing, encrypting is a mathematical operation that transforms numbers into other numbers.
- serge2k 11y agoHow is that relevant? I disagree with him too, but this is a lousy argument.
- stanleydrew 11y agoIt's a bit of a reducto-ad-absurdum simplification, but the argument is pointing out the fact that most people wouldn't ever consider valid a law that would prevent simpler mathematical operations, so why should we consider the validity of a law that would try to outlaw complicated mathematical operations. How would it even be possible to enforce it?
- Spivak 11y ago>How would it even be possible to enforce it? Mass surveillance + "if we cant understand your data and isn't in one of the prescribed formats then you are a criminal and can be charged on that fact alone."
- cortesoft 11y agoIt is certainly relevant, because his point is that encryption is just math, and you can't outlaw math. Or, even if you did outlaw math, it won't have any effect because you can't enforce it.
- merpnderp 11y agoI think he's pointing out that terrorists will still have access to PGP or other encryption tools.
- dingaling 11y ago> Like adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing, encrypting is a mathematical operation that transforms numbers into other numbers. Compressing plutonium beyond its point of criticality is a chemical & physical operation that transforms matter into energy. But building or possessing nuclear weapons is still illegal for civilians and most countries. i.e. they will dismiss such objections by saying it's not the principle or fundamentals they're banning but the specific application