I agree with most of what Mad Michael said in the original post, with the exception of his interpretation of the 2nd amendment. I do believe it covers the rights of citizens to bear arms. Begle and Drgoodtrips are right on as well. Many of the 'wedge' issues in question today are state's issues, not federal ones. My elementary view is that by default, all questions of authority on an issue begin at the most basic level, which is with the individual. Clearly, issues arise that require a higher level of governing body to intervene, but there better be a damn good reason why. If individuals can't work out a problem, then leave it to the townships or municipalities. If they can't work out a problem, leave it to the county. If not the county, then the state. If not the state, then the federal government. Many of thing issues you all have listed above, like abortion, homosexual marriage, etc., have been taken over by the federal government when they could be worked out more expediently at a more basic level of governance. Maddening it is.