The fact that there are more and more cycle-only contraflow lanes, and, in other cities in other countries a generalised exemption for cyclists from one-way streets (i.e. cyclists are allowed to cycle in either direction on any street, irrespective of signage, which applies only to motorised traffic), shows that what you can do in your car and on your bicycle are two quite distinct things. Therefore, that question is quite irrelevant.
Yours is the irrelevant point. It is not allowed in this country and this is the country whose laws/rules/highway code apply.
The actual reason why this should be the case are that the culture is not yet as cycle aware as other countries. eg Pedestrians may step out having only looked one way, cars are not aware that you may be there.
How about 'Would you not pay your tv license, as you can get it anyway, they won't catch you, and no one is harmed by it not being paid?'
I'm more than sick of this argument. It has all the characteristics of victim blaming. How is any one else to be blamed for that motorist putting yourself at risk? This type of argument really sounds to me like an excuse to the "angry motorist". Whether I cycle or drive, I see a lot of motorist committing all sort of traffic offences (including jumping red lights, that I witness much more from cars than cyclists, believe it or not). As a cyclist or driver, I direct my anger specifically at the offending driver, and no one else. That would be bizarre, really.
So actually all of my anger is directed at the offending road user. (Not DRIVER) In this case it is User9609 and a motorist. And while the motorists actions were more dangerous, I would be equally angry with User9609 if there had been no motorist, and it was just a post about cycling the wrong way down a one way street.
Of course we shouldn't accept the status quo, so write to your council, lobby your mp etc etc , and get a contraflow cycle lane put it. Don't just say, "Well it would be fine in Holland, so I'm doing it here."
Thanks for your input mickle.