They used to make radium toothpaste, heroin coffee. Legislated away.

Of course, the laws and regulations that have cropped up sometimes are in response to the addictiveness of particular vices. That's why we don't regulate shopping for example. It is kind of disingenuous to put "shopping for clothes" and nicotine addiction on the same footing.

> It is kind of disingenuous to put "shopping for clothes" and nicotine addiction on the same footing.

But putting Facebook and shopping for clothes on the same footing isn't. And the "Facebook causes depression" arguments are utterly unconvincing.

I agree with much of what you said. I'm not sure where I'd place Facebook in this case. Honestly, I'm not sure I'd make ruddct's argument for regulation based on the addictiveness of facebook more than I'd make the old anti-trust, money in politics and unchecked influence arguments.

Two questions for you:

Do you believe there should be a minimum age to buy tobacco?

Do you believe tobacco companies should have to publish information stating that tobacco is addictive and dangerous on their products?