There's a funny thing about controversial laws: if a number of countries adopt the same law, then it becomes less controversial. Its almost as though there is some sort of herd mentality in international legislative circles. For example, when the US adopted the Patriot Act in the subsequent months to 9/11, we saw a predictable response from the legislators of Malaysia: the adoption of a similar law in the US (which also happens to be the biggest advocate of liberal democracy) makes laws such as the much-maligned Internal Security Act alright. It was almost funny to see the likes of Dr M and the rest falling over themselves as they raced to pat each other on the back for their foresight. Nevermind that the Patriot Act and the ISA have some subtle, yet significant differences.
Over the next few days, we'll probably see another fine example of the "legislative herd mentality" in action. Britain has just banned the use of mobile phones while driving. This is old news for Malaysian drivers; the passing of such laws in Malaysia happened with a degree of controversy some years back. While many countries have taken similar measures over the years, Britain's have received the widest press coverage.
Cue the herd.
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