Yes, we can all dream up extreme scenarios to justify an argument, but they often have little connection with reality.
Firstly, i'm not a "liberal", whatever that means. I make up my own mind on every issue, thanks and would hope that I can recognise a patronising salesmen or dodgy argument a mile away. Secondly, the law is often an ass, made for political or emotive reasons, not from objective analysis. Such laws invite contempt for the overall rule of law and are thus bad in more ways than one. Thirdly, the outraged tone of your post suggested that you really don't understand the sense of humour, rebelliousness and creative mind that often goes with engineer territory. Finally, it's fun to play devil's advocate, as a check to make sure you don't start taking yourself too seriously.
In other words, lighten up a bit :-)...
Regards,
Chris