What is a "Knee Jerk Reaction"

[Honest Gaza]

I am often annoyed when the same type of event occurs over a 20 year period and as soon as the Government tries to do something ( or suggest doing something ), the media and general public refers to it as a "knee jerk reaction".

An example is the shooting episodes that have occured over the years. Strongest in my mind is the Port Arthur massacre followed by the Strathfield massacre ( or was it the other way around ). If another shooting massacre was to occur tomorrow, and the Government tried to bring in some type of reforms in the following months, the cries would be loud and long....KNEE JERK REACTION. Considering the time that has elapsed since Port Arthur and Strathfiled, it would be anything but a knee jerk reaction....just a timely reminder that nothing has been done as yet.

The current episode of P-Plater accidents and the ensuing comments from the Govt to introduce reforms......KNEE JERK REACTION. Again, is it really knee jerk....or simply long overdue.

If someone is offended by a person, they trot out the age old "you are a racist" comment, as it is guaranteed to silence any further debate. It would seem that the same thing now occurs with the "Knee Jerk Reaction" answer.

Guaranteed to stifle any further action. So please, forget about the "Knee Jerk Reaction" comments and just maybe, things can change for the better.

[DavidG]

Knee Jerk Reaction.
A reaction to a sudden impact that is not thought out or reasoned but taken by the Gov of the day to shut up a hysterical mob using emotional arguement that would not stand up to reasoned investigation.

Usually aimed at a minority but hurts the majority and still does not achieve the desired effect.

[ernknot]

Ventriloquists doll = the jerk on the knee who reacts.

[Sturdee]

Ventriloquists doll = the jerk on the knee who reacts.

A perfect description of our current batch of politicians.

Peter.

[Iain]

Or any forthcoming batch, and the wealthy industrialists hands have the delicate boquette of poli lube ( ) as a direct result of insertion into the rear of the said puppet to make the mouth move.

[scooter]

You thought about that far too long Iain.

Yer startin' to worry me mate...


Cheers..........Sean