aptitude no longer running

[dilberts_left_nut]

Here is how anyone can get the error...

And if you hit it with a hammer, or piss in the vents, it won't work properly either -- what's your point?

[debiman]

give people safety belts, they complain about their loss of freedom.
remove the safety belts, they sue you when they hurt their heads.

and yes, this remark is on topic: Linux has always been about absolute control of your system. no safety belts - more possibilities, but also more responsibility.