I like most of what you post, but on this occasion, I dont think...

I like most of what you post, but on this occasion, I dont think you have a very deep understanding of what the shorters are doing and why. A fair amount of what is happening is hedging for big corporate option positions (Think of your pension fund or your insurance company). It is not all speculative. And, as I say, it should be a heavily regulated activity in order to prevent predatory behaviour (in both directions). But, having someone out there with the tools to punish poor or inept behaviour by management actually benefits you and I.
Also, if you paid me a fee for borrowing my car, and then fulfilled your contract to deliver it back to me, why would you be in Jail?