City lights are something of an unavoidable problem, but the truly unforgivable scourge is all the "security" lights that electric companies promote in order to

City lights are something of an unavoidable problem, but the truly unforgivable scourge is all the "security" lights that electric companies promote in order to burn useless capacity in rural areas. First, the idea that anyone's security is improved by helpfully illuminating unfamiliar surroundings for intruders is risible. I can walk from one end of my farm to the other in pitch-black starless night without stumbling, because I am familiar with my own property. Someone who hasn't been there before will have to bring a light, which will betray their intrusion. (Which, whatever. If they want to take a walk at night and don't damage anything I don't really care.) Even worse is how these "security" lights destroy one's night sight from long distance. If I'm in sight of one of my dumbass neighbors' houses, I have to be careful not to look anywhere near them, because these devices shine their awful-colored rays in all directions. I'm sure this is even more of a burden for nocturnal animals. I know it is for my livestock. These lights operate all night long, every night. Those who consent to their installation are typically inside their houses, watching TV or sleeping. These lights' only function is to illuminate the front lawn for a couple of seconds a few times each evening when someone wonders "is the security light still on?" Anyone who needs actual illumination outside uses flashlights, headlights, etc. when they actually need the illumination.