There was a time in the early days (ca 2009) when I would've believed that the ANTZ stance comes from incompetence and misunderstanding from people who are otherwise acting in good faith (that would've been gross negligence). But now, the evidence to the contrary is too great and the conclusion has to be that ANTZ are maliciously pursuing an agenda they know is contrary to public health (this is criminal negligence).
I think the majority of their rank and file are still operating with the proverbial wool pulled over their eyes; honorable people with honorable intentions and noble motives who actually believe they're working in service of an effort that will (and wants to) reduce smoking-related morbidity and mortality.
I've always wrestled with these notions. I've always wondered how certain Senators, for example, could continue to push for Welfare when the results of their programs of, now for over 60 years on parts and since LBJ's Great Society for most. Charles Murray
Losing Ground was one example of someone coming to their senses - David Horowitz, another. But the movers and shakers in Congress haven't budged off their original 'honorable intentions' despite the devastation they have done to poor families and have not moved the poverty line at all - around 15% in 1965 and around 15% today after $22 Trillion dollars spent.
War on Poverty After 50 Years: Conditions of the Poor in America
I guess they can only remain 'honorable' with their eyes wide shut.
