Posted by Charlie on March 11, 19100 at 05:24:51:
In Reply to: An ethics question posted by A really confused person........Juan on March 10, 19100 at 22:44:37:
It bothers me that peopel would even think of asking others, mostly people they've never physically met, for "permission" to do whatever they have in mind to their trucks. We all know what it is: there's an attitude floating around that these trucks are analagous to original valuable art works. It would be "unethical" or otherwise "wrong" to turn a original Rembrandt into a dishtowel. Why? Only because millions of others would derive pleasure for centuries into the future by looking at it, and secondarily, perhaps, because the right of property might be a bit questionable regarding owning something produced 4 centuries ago. Who REALLY owns Rembrandt's paintings?
On the other hand: Dodge Power Wagons. Who owns them? The owners, period. The owner has an absolute right to do what he wishes with it. No one has any right to object or interfere on grounds of ethics or aesthetics. Are they unique irreplaceable historical treasures from centuries past? No. Given enough effort and a few machine tools, they could be made again.
So, Juan, do what you have a hankering to do, and you don't need to ask permission. But you can ask for advice and help. However, don't necessarily expect applause for a "butcher job". Try to do a good job in whatever modifications you do, the truck deserves it.
Charlie