Terrorism by Pen

I have discussed before the potential reasons that governments may fear books, i.e. the poisons released in their production, the destruction of natural resources, the dangerous machinery used, et. al. But I have just had a new revelation...

Maybe it is the pen that they fear. It is, after all, commonly said that the pen is mightier than the sword.

Certainly the US government is trying to make sure that we don't forget 9-11 (what year was that again?). I am still astounded that a group of terrorists were able to hijack a series of planes with box cutters. This quite simply overwhelms me. Since then I have, as most US citizens, experienced the heightened security in airports and federal buildings and consequently lost my favorite pocket knife to the nearest trash can (and even a family heirloom or two).

Now let us consider the ever so common plastic pen. This weapon of potential destruction is shaped rather like a stiletto. A long, thin, penetrating shaft with a sharp point. Let us now consider what damage such a device could inflict on a jugular artery or a well aimed blow to the heart. Who needs a gun after all when a plastic pen quite handily passes all security inspections.

Of course in this day and age of digital life styles portable computers who writes by hand any more any way?