Those are old comments. Modern helmets have been designed to minimize neck injury. Is neck injury still possible sure. Is severe head trauma probable without a helmet.....most likely.
I ride for my enjoyment and economy. I wear full gear with a full helmet. I've passed numerous Motorcycle Riding Courses to push my skills. I realize as cautious and aware as I can be.....there is no way for me control other driver's actions.
The purpose of all the gear is not to look cool. It is to minimize injury to me during an accident. Statistically, most accidents occur within a few miles of home at low speeds. If I'm in a accident, I don't want to become a live vegetable for my family to water and clean because I was too narcistic to wear a helmet. I do not want to burden my family with such a debilitating task.
My riding gear consists of an armored jacket and pants, composite toe boots, armored gloves and the most important....a full coverage DOT tested high visibility helmet. Iowa does not have a helmet law.
Franky, if the Govt can pass laws mandating seat belts, then they can pass laws mandating helmets. The same rational to justify seat belts is the same as for helmets.