Ok I know that by the book controllers are not responsible with VFR separation but ...

I got into this heated discussion with this gentleman (ATC) about the role of the controller in the Hudson collision.

My point: Will you really consider yourself blameless if two VFR planes collided in your airspace and on your frequency while you are involved in "inappropriate conversations" on a personal call?

His point: it's not ATC's job to separate VFR aircraft. If they get together, it's horrible accident, but not controller's fault. Period!

His attitude scares me!

I am fairly newbie ... my thinking might be faulty. This is the perfect time to find out. What do you guys think?

P.S. I always look for traffic ... flight following or not.