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No, I don't think an alternative is necessary. It might be enough to say 'this harm is unacceptable; finding an alternative is the people's responsibility'.

For example, this is how the law treats people who sell drugs. Do you make the same argument re: drug dealers needing an alternative source of income before we criminalize it?

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> Do you make the same argument re: drug dealers needing an alternative source of income before we criminalize it?

Unfortunately, yes, I've seen people make that argument.

I've had people tell me drug dealing is the only job available to some people in some communities, thereby making it acceptable morally and it shouldn't be prosecuted criminally (at least not so harshly).

Selling food is a bit different than selling drugs.

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