I'm a sticker for a "proper edge" and a sharp one at that. The purpose of a tool determines it's edge. I shave with a 5/8ths inch straight razor I strop a couple times a week and hone every two weeks. It's truly 'razor' sharp, which means it's edge is thinner than foil and as fragile as an edge can be. It's great for hair, and that's about it. My pocket knives have a 'double bevel' working edge which holds up to abuse and is very easy to restore with a couple passes over a crock stick.
They will 'pop' hair after honing, which is really useless in the real world, but gives them a good start. Once I've ground and sharpened an edge, I can usually depend on it to stay in good shape for years, with a touch up on the hone every couple of months. I detest serrated blades. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif" alt="" />
The point (pun <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />) of a sharp edge is that it requires the least amount of effort to push through work, reducing the likelihood of slipping and doing yourself real harm. I'm also careful about what I cut and how...keeps the blade intact for months. Don't ask to borrow my knife. You'll get my loaner...which will cut butter or saw through string. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif" alt="" />

A butter knife is certainly safer, but won't cut anything either.

Yup, scissors are on the little Swiss Army knife. Use 'em all the time. I find the pliers on my Leatherman Squirt just as useful if not more so....that guy is the most useful pocket tool ever.