Those who have read my writings on SS, probably have noticed that I choose my words fairly carefully, and deliberately.
When I used the word commandeer, I meant the colloquial definition which is to forcibly take possession of. When I used the word loot, I meant plunder or sack... what you see people do during every disaster.
In the course of my life's wanderings, I have met all sorts of people. Having attended numerous hamfests, gun shows, gun shoots, and MV shows, I have met a fair number of folks that live on the fringes of so-called polite society. [They say birds of a feather flock together, so what can that say about me?] Among them self proclaimed preppers, militia, wannabe anarchists, and wannabe revolutionaries.
All of them seem to have a culture that values being prepared. They follow that culture to varying degrees, of course.
I have met folks that think it will come down to tooth and nail, and so they sharpen their teeth, and nails to points (yes, they are out there!). I have met folks that think it will come down to a gun fight, and so they hoard guns and ammo in quantities that make the activities of the Branch Davidians seem like those of dabblers. I have met those that hoard food, and those that hoard MV's as well. I have even met a few that hoard BBQ propane tanks, but we won't go there.
In listening to all of the bravado these folks on the fringe spew, one common thread seems to always come out: I'll do anything it takes to survive. That anything, if explored, includes forcibly taking the possessions of others.
When push comes to shove, will they actually live up to their bravado? I suspect the majority will wet their pants, and hide under a rock somewhere quaking, but some will really do anything.
It is those that I am worried about.
-Chuck