I guess what it comes down to that this is really a useful history lesson. I imagine, for example, some of the arguments I read here are the same that reasonable, kind, rational slaveholders made.
I don't mistreat my slaves in the least, they want for nothing. And I am appalled and angered by those that do. They should be prosecuted and punished.
After all, while the Constitution is a bit fuzzy on the topic, given the 3/5ths compromise, the prohibition on outlawing the slave trade, and the fugitive slave clause, slavery is certainly protected. And with 60% of the nation's GDP dependent on it, there's really nothing we can do to change anything without incredible risk and national disruption.
Plus I enjoy the costless labo(u)r they provide which allow me to supply Manchester's mills with incredibly cheap cotton to maintain my market share. This allows me to live my best life in comfort and security. That's the American ideal, after all.
Of course if the abolitionists have it right and the laws change, I'll give up my slaves, because I'm no criminal. But until they do, I will live my life as I'm allowed, and since they won't, given the huge national division on the issue, I am free to offer my views about how to make the situation better while there are no negative repercussions for me. Nor will I admit that my demand for the product in question is part of the problem -- and the only truly controllable part of the problem.
After all, my slaves are just a drop in the ocean of slaves. If I set them free, my lifestyle is harmed but the situation remains unsolved. My action would mean nothing.
So I'll stand pat with the staus quo, thank you.
Oh well.
No, I'm not equating gun ownership with slavery. No, I'm not suggesting gun owners are racist. I am drawing connections between parallel threads of logic. That's all. Yes, I'm aware the comparison isn't perfect. No, I'm not suggesting ipso facto.