April 13th, 2005
From Scott Adams' Dilbert Newsletter #60:
Sometimes my brain ties together things that are better left alone. Here are three things I've thought about recently:
* Microchip designers often embed microscopic messages on the surface of the chip as a way of signing their work.
* DNA has a lot of "junk" parts that don't seem to have any function.
* A lot of people think evolution is obviously "designed" by someone.
I wonder if any cryptographers have looked at that junk DNA to see if it's a message from the designer. I'm guessing that it's a code that says something like, "I am Kaloopah, from the star system Nebulon IV. I have sent this evolution program into space as my eighth grade science project."
Friday, November 27, 2009
Monday, November 23, 2009
Facebook Capitalism/Socialism Discussion
This discussion happened over the last couple of days in response to my facebook status update. Very worthwhile and informative. If only this discussion could be as openly discussed with every person who thinks government participation in markets is okay. Enjoy!
Brad ***** The government gets it's power from its citizens. It can not justly do anything that I as a citizen can not do myself. If it does, that action is criminal; period.
Sat at 9:14pm · Comment · LikeUnlike · View Feedback (18)Hide Feedback (18)
Bryan *****, Dave *****, J Kalani ***** and 2 others like this.
Brad Green
Aside from posting that statement, I'd like to mention that I agree with the cultural norms of our grandparents: Anyone participating in government handouts may be justly shunned for their role in stealing our property and freedom, and consequently their own. TAKE RESPONSIBILITY OF YOUR LIFE FOR CRYING OUT LOUD!
Sat at 9:18pm · Delete
James *****
Wait...that makes sense. It sounds like what the founders talked about. It sounds like what Ayn Rand wrote about. It sounds like what Ezra T. Benson preached about. Now why can't our lawmakers who swore an oath to defend these Constitutional principles follow it? Why do so many of our fellow citizens encourage them to do so rather than be productive and earn their keep?
Sat at 11:41pm · Delete
Cory *****
In the last year and half i've been through 4 jobs, lost my house, my car, moved from my home city and started anew in a completely foreign place (well mostly - Northern Utah is a different animal from SLC). I didn't stop working at any point - if one job ended I went to find the next one. I am back in school 12 hours a semester, working full time and trying my ass off to provide for 4 kids. This is not someplace I had planned to be at 32 years old, but I have tried my best to make the most of it. If not for things like food assistance (WIC) and CHIP, the last couple years would have been a lot tougher than they were. My family has helped us as best they can, my church has pitched in as needed, but thank God that Utah has a pretty well run welfare program that has proved things for my kids that I have not been able to, despite my best efforts. Hopefully when I am back on my feet I can provide that kind of assistance to other families who have fallen on hard times and are doing their best to get back up, but I pray that these state programs can provide in the interrim for those people. The point is I've taken responsibility for my life at every turn - I've made more lemonade in the last 2 years than i care to ever remember - but sometimes all the responsibility in the world just can't put food on the table or get your kid to see a doctor when it's absolutely neccesary. I heed the worlds of the prophets, too, guys. But if this last couple years of trials for me and my family sounds like the kind of thing you are talking about, start shunning me by removing me from your friends list.
But it sounds like I owe you guys and the people who 'liked' this thread an apology for stealing your property and your freedom, and for not staying productive and earning my keep. I am sorry for that; I wish I had some control over things in the last little while. But on a positive note, I didn't take the mortgage refinance and chose to face foreclosure instead, I turned down Medicare insurance for my wife and I (we are both uninsured now) and I sold my car at a loss rather than try to trade it in during the cash for clunkers thing. Now I get to walk home from work usually once a week. Fortunately global warming has kept Logan from dropping below freezing before about 9 PM so it's not too cold yet. Yes that was sarcasm I don't buy into global warming. Just trying to be funny cuz there's not much to laugh about at the tail end of thread accusing you of being a thief and a lout. How's that for crying out loud?
Yesterday at 11:37pm · Delete
Brad *****
Cory, I understand where you're coming from. This post was my way of responding to one of my most respected mentors' attempted persuasion that I should take advantage of all the free programs out there. I choose not to. Until the time comes where my children are threatened by starvation or exposure to the weather, I will view these programs as a worse evil. Allowing my children to starve would be worse, however in my opinion.
Now about my last couple of years: In 2007 I made just over one million dollars. By the end of January 2008 the real estate market had changed enough that I couldn't close any deal I needed to keep my business afloat. I tried unsuccessfully until May when I informed my creditors that I would have to personally repay their money someday because my business was dead. Since then, I've lost my two BMWs, two snowmobiles, and all of my houses (to foreclosure) including my home. After six months without income, I finally gave up being self-employed and went to work as a salesman for a plumbing wholesaler. It has been very difficult to keep food on the table and the heat on. We've been shut off a few times but have managed to get through. We live in a 4-plex apartment now and have one 12-year old car we've spent two weeks trying to get past safety inspection so we can pay another tax to drive our own property. In the mean time, the police are pulling us over for late registration.
As I said, I know where you're coming from. I understand the justification going on in your head. If you're honest with yourself, I believe you'd admit that your kids wouldn't have starved or frozen to death had you not let the government bail YOU out. Do I think you should go to jail for your involvement? No. But I have no problem with you feeling embarrassed by it; and if you are, then you're still okay in my book. That means you don't feel entitled to it. I believe when the government gets out of the people's way, we'll recover in huge leaps and bounds economically. Until more people start relying on themselves instead of the government, we're going to slip further and further into poverty and totalitarianism.
Thank you for sharing your personal experience. May life be better for us all.
13 hours ago · Delete
Cory *****
Well I'm glad to hear that I'm not the only one; clearly you've been through rougher times than me in the last little bit, and well done on keeping up the effort. In brief I'll say this: I refused every form of federal government assistance that was offered to me on the grounds that I don't think the fed has any authority to take money from one to give to another, but I have taken state assistance for the fact that my interpetation of the 10th amendment gives the state that right. However I am embaraased by the fact that I have been unable to provide these basic things for my kids at times, and due to that fact I will work tirelessly until I feel right with the world again. There is no question that I don't feel entitled to anything someone else produces, but I also have to be thankful for the fact that these programs wre in place when I needed them most. Those I could decline, I did (like insurance), but thank God for the fact that a couple of them were available to me as an option when all my other channels had worn out.
In short I concede your point but argue the mechanics of it. Perhaps I took too hard-nosed a stance in my initial response, but I'm sure you can see from my perspective how this thread looked. I'm glad we got the chance to share some stories, and indeed may God bless us all in His own way in the times to come.
10 hours ago · Delete
Michael *****
Aren't we supposed to go to the Church before the government though? They will always help with feeding one's family. In my opinion, there is never a reason to go on the socialist government dole and use taxpayer's money which was forced from them and into programs that they have no control over.
6 hours ago · Delete
James *****
Can you imagine...if instead of paying 36%+ in taxes, what if i paid them 2% (for Constitutionally approved items), and kept the other 34%? What would I do with that? Create more jobs? Absolutely. Spend a little more on my family? You bet! Donate more to local churches and charities? YES!
As the government pushes out private companies (churches included) and takes their place in the market, people are willing to donate to these less. This is part of the plan. It is self destructive, but planned that way.
Because nature abhors a vacuum, and as people we are generally good natured, eliminating these government programs would lead to more charitable donations.
4 hours ago · Delete
Brad *****
Michael, "supposed" is a loaded word. You know that. ;) As to the comment, not all people have a "church" to go to. But interestingly, I showed this discussion to a coworker who is an LDS bishop and he says the recommendation from the church handbook is to have people ask for help from the following sources (in order) family, friends, government, then the church. However, I would probably rather steal from someone than let me children die of starvation or exposure. Even if the just consequence was for me to go to jail.
James, yes, Yes, YES! I'm actually writing a book about this exact phenomenon. As the government has increased its role in our lives, the citizens of this country have gradually become less charitable, less wealthy, less optimistic, and less happy. Or to look at the other side: more greedy, more poor, more pessimistic, more depressed.
Socialism: Modern Day Slavery
3 hours ago · Delete
Cory *****
to which I will add 2 things: if you are ever in a situation that you have exhausted every other means available to you and you genuinely don't know where your next meal is going to come from, then let's talk about "never a reason." Second, let's also remember that, so far as we are talking about state and local government, there are no constitutional restraints on which the local legislature cannot act beyond those enumerated in the US constitution. Therefore, as long as the citizens of Utah elect leaders they believe to be meeting their needs, they have complete say over what happens at a local level. So no taxpayer money is forced out of anyone; and if you feel like you don't have control, get out and campaign for new representation. The electorate dictates who goes to represent them, and to the extent that the representation does not satisfy the needs of its base, that same electorate can oust their representative. Congress is shackled by the constitution, but state government is specifically empowered by it. I'm not for government health care, but if it came up on Utah's capitol hill I couldn't make the argument that it's against the constitution; I'd have to find some other argument. It is the same with state welfare programs. The point is we have plenty of control over this stuff; your vote is your control.
All I'm saying is let's qualify these differences between state and federal governments. The Founder's recognized such differences and specifically created protections for that distinction. Federal burecrats have worked tirelessly in the last 100 years or so to erode those distinctions, but they exist nonetheless and for good reason. That's all I'm asking.
Lastly before we get too accusatory of socialism as a concept, someone please tell me what they think the United Order is. Perhaps a better interpretation is, when administered with compassion and in the absence of personal ambition, socialism can work great. But for our greedy and selfish times, yes indeed it is akin to slavery.
2 hours ago · Delete
Michael *****
Haha Brad you know me well ;) And I thought that in the handbook it said church then government. Thanks for setting that straight. And yes, I would rather steal than let my family starve. In an ideal society, we would care for those around us in need so that they would not need the dole, but this is hardly an ideal society at this point. And I'm sorry to hear that things turned south for you, but I know you and I know that you will bounce back well, given the time you need. I wish you all the best and you and your family are in my prayers. :)
about an hour ago · Delete
Brad *****
Wow. Cory, you and I could talk for hours about this topic and we should. There are a few things I think would differentiate my stand on government:
1. Government is a gun. The only power government has is the power to enforce laws using the threat of force. Taxes were originally voluntary, but now are enforced by threat of force.
2. Although the Constitution of the United States of America has reserved greater power to the states, each state has a constitution that is also designed to reign in government power to protect the freedom of its citizens. Most of these documents (including Utah's) reserved greater power for smaller government bodies, ie... counties, cities etc... Governments have been instituted among men to preserve liberty, not grant prosperity. Many of the roles the state governments play weren't allowed by their original constitutions. These documents have been amended to allow for greater role of government in their citizens lives. These laws are now completely legal much like the federal laws we disagree with, that doesn't make them morally right. They still take from some citizens without their consent with threat of force; use some and pass some on to other citizens. This is morally wrong.... Read More
3. This brings us to the united order. I once shared your opinion that the united order is just "righteous communism" with the dictator being the only innocent human to ever live on earth, human nature gets put on hold and we don't need to choose between ourselves and everyone else. There is an important difference between this order and communism: choice. Remember the war in heaven? Me either. But I do remember what I was taught about it. Force us to do what's right or let us choose and make mistakes. This is and has been the largest, longest-lasting war EVER. Force or choice. Which one is God's way?
God is a capitalist. Proper choices lead to positive results, force always leads to negative results. I stand on the side of choice. ALWAYS.
about an hour ago · Delete
Cory *****
You are right and I am not disagreeing. I'm only stating that local governments, which are more in touch with the people, are better able to serve the needs of their constituents, and those constituients can choose to pass laws or not based on their view of the community's needs. I'm not for a second disputing that even local governments are not serving their bases properly, or that they are not living up to their own constitutional requirments. To that end we don't disagree; these things are morally wrong. I guess I am just trying to suggest that the ends of compassion can be served by a government agency so long as that agency is in fact meeting the needs of its electorate, by which I mean adminstering compassion in a manner agreed upon by the voters. If it's within the scope of the supreme law (a constitution) and voted upon by the public, then it is morally acceptable. This also assumes that the voting public are a moral people who have compassion as their motivator and not selfishness. Clearly there is a problem with this logic, and I admit I am trying to take a "glass is half full" perspective with this line of reasoning. I am also trying to justify the fact that I have partaken of this system, more to my shagrin, and am grateful today for its existence. I suppose I should just own the fact that I am a hypocrit right now and stop trying to justify my acceptance of something I morally oppose. I'm just trying to do what's best for my kids. Insert some comment regarding "jusitification" and "masturbation" here.
And I agree whole-heartedly with what you said regarding the United Order. It is a socialistic system, but one predicated on choice which is why it works. This because those who participate in it have chosen to grant their labors to a cause greater than themselves, and it is administered by the only perfect being ever to have lived. If it were any other way, it would be no different than any socialist or communist regime before it. So as you aptly put, the difference is choice. We are clearly arguing the same point, at least so it appears to me.
We should indeed discuss this more at length, althought I fear we may end up preaching to the choir as we probably aren't as dissimilar in our views as these postings might indicate to the casual observer. If you're ever in Logan, let's do lunch.
43 minutes ago · Delete
Brad *****
Cory. Well stated. I believe very strongly in associating with like-minded individuals. We seem to be such. Next time I'm up that way, I'll let you know. It will probably be next Tuesday (a week from tomorrow). I go as far north as bountiful on Tuesdays. Likewise if you're ever in Utah county give me a call. I'll message you my contact info.
On a side note about the united order, I believe that the temple-worthy members of the LDS church are already supposed to be living this order. We've covenanted to such. I'm still struggling to get my home teaching done and get to church every week. No one's perfect; well there was this one guy once...
10 minutes ago · Delete
Brad ***** The government gets it's power from its citizens. It can not justly do anything that I as a citizen can not do myself. If it does, that action is criminal; period.
Sat at 9:14pm · Comment · LikeUnlike · View Feedback (18)Hide Feedback (18)
Bryan *****, Dave *****, J Kalani ***** and 2 others like this.
Brad Green
Aside from posting that statement, I'd like to mention that I agree with the cultural norms of our grandparents: Anyone participating in government handouts may be justly shunned for their role in stealing our property and freedom, and consequently their own. TAKE RESPONSIBILITY OF YOUR LIFE FOR CRYING OUT LOUD!
Sat at 9:18pm · Delete
James *****
Wait...that makes sense. It sounds like what the founders talked about. It sounds like what Ayn Rand wrote about. It sounds like what Ezra T. Benson preached about. Now why can't our lawmakers who swore an oath to defend these Constitutional principles follow it? Why do so many of our fellow citizens encourage them to do so rather than be productive and earn their keep?
Sat at 11:41pm · Delete
Cory *****
In the last year and half i've been through 4 jobs, lost my house, my car, moved from my home city and started anew in a completely foreign place (well mostly - Northern Utah is a different animal from SLC). I didn't stop working at any point - if one job ended I went to find the next one. I am back in school 12 hours a semester, working full time and trying my ass off to provide for 4 kids. This is not someplace I had planned to be at 32 years old, but I have tried my best to make the most of it. If not for things like food assistance (WIC) and CHIP, the last couple years would have been a lot tougher than they were. My family has helped us as best they can, my church has pitched in as needed, but thank God that Utah has a pretty well run welfare program that has proved things for my kids that I have not been able to, despite my best efforts. Hopefully when I am back on my feet I can provide that kind of assistance to other families who have fallen on hard times and are doing their best to get back up, but I pray that these state programs can provide in the interrim for those people. The point is I've taken responsibility for my life at every turn - I've made more lemonade in the last 2 years than i care to ever remember - but sometimes all the responsibility in the world just can't put food on the table or get your kid to see a doctor when it's absolutely neccesary. I heed the worlds of the prophets, too, guys. But if this last couple years of trials for me and my family sounds like the kind of thing you are talking about, start shunning me by removing me from your friends list.
But it sounds like I owe you guys and the people who 'liked' this thread an apology for stealing your property and your freedom, and for not staying productive and earning my keep. I am sorry for that; I wish I had some control over things in the last little while. But on a positive note, I didn't take the mortgage refinance and chose to face foreclosure instead, I turned down Medicare insurance for my wife and I (we are both uninsured now) and I sold my car at a loss rather than try to trade it in during the cash for clunkers thing. Now I get to walk home from work usually once a week. Fortunately global warming has kept Logan from dropping below freezing before about 9 PM so it's not too cold yet. Yes that was sarcasm I don't buy into global warming. Just trying to be funny cuz there's not much to laugh about at the tail end of thread accusing you of being a thief and a lout. How's that for crying out loud?
Yesterday at 11:37pm · Delete
Brad *****
Cory, I understand where you're coming from. This post was my way of responding to one of my most respected mentors' attempted persuasion that I should take advantage of all the free programs out there. I choose not to. Until the time comes where my children are threatened by starvation or exposure to the weather, I will view these programs as a worse evil. Allowing my children to starve would be worse, however in my opinion.
Now about my last couple of years: In 2007 I made just over one million dollars. By the end of January 2008 the real estate market had changed enough that I couldn't close any deal I needed to keep my business afloat. I tried unsuccessfully until May when I informed my creditors that I would have to personally repay their money someday because my business was dead. Since then, I've lost my two BMWs, two snowmobiles, and all of my houses (to foreclosure) including my home. After six months without income, I finally gave up being self-employed and went to work as a salesman for a plumbing wholesaler. It has been very difficult to keep food on the table and the heat on. We've been shut off a few times but have managed to get through. We live in a 4-plex apartment now and have one 12-year old car we've spent two weeks trying to get past safety inspection so we can pay another tax to drive our own property. In the mean time, the police are pulling us over for late registration.
As I said, I know where you're coming from. I understand the justification going on in your head. If you're honest with yourself, I believe you'd admit that your kids wouldn't have starved or frozen to death had you not let the government bail YOU out. Do I think you should go to jail for your involvement? No. But I have no problem with you feeling embarrassed by it; and if you are, then you're still okay in my book. That means you don't feel entitled to it. I believe when the government gets out of the people's way, we'll recover in huge leaps and bounds economically. Until more people start relying on themselves instead of the government, we're going to slip further and further into poverty and totalitarianism.
Thank you for sharing your personal experience. May life be better for us all.
13 hours ago · Delete
Cory *****
Well I'm glad to hear that I'm not the only one; clearly you've been through rougher times than me in the last little bit, and well done on keeping up the effort. In brief I'll say this: I refused every form of federal government assistance that was offered to me on the grounds that I don't think the fed has any authority to take money from one to give to another, but I have taken state assistance for the fact that my interpetation of the 10th amendment gives the state that right. However I am embaraased by the fact that I have been unable to provide these basic things for my kids at times, and due to that fact I will work tirelessly until I feel right with the world again. There is no question that I don't feel entitled to anything someone else produces, but I also have to be thankful for the fact that these programs wre in place when I needed them most. Those I could decline, I did (like insurance), but thank God for the fact that a couple of them were available to me as an option when all my other channels had worn out.
In short I concede your point but argue the mechanics of it. Perhaps I took too hard-nosed a stance in my initial response, but I'm sure you can see from my perspective how this thread looked. I'm glad we got the chance to share some stories, and indeed may God bless us all in His own way in the times to come.
10 hours ago · Delete
Michael *****
Aren't we supposed to go to the Church before the government though? They will always help with feeding one's family. In my opinion, there is never a reason to go on the socialist government dole and use taxpayer's money which was forced from them and into programs that they have no control over.
6 hours ago · Delete
James *****
Can you imagine...if instead of paying 36%+ in taxes, what if i paid them 2% (for Constitutionally approved items), and kept the other 34%? What would I do with that? Create more jobs? Absolutely. Spend a little more on my family? You bet! Donate more to local churches and charities? YES!
As the government pushes out private companies (churches included) and takes their place in the market, people are willing to donate to these less. This is part of the plan. It is self destructive, but planned that way.
Because nature abhors a vacuum, and as people we are generally good natured, eliminating these government programs would lead to more charitable donations.
4 hours ago · Delete
Brad *****
Michael, "supposed" is a loaded word. You know that. ;) As to the comment, not all people have a "church" to go to. But interestingly, I showed this discussion to a coworker who is an LDS bishop and he says the recommendation from the church handbook is to have people ask for help from the following sources (in order) family, friends, government, then the church. However, I would probably rather steal from someone than let me children die of starvation or exposure. Even if the just consequence was for me to go to jail.
James, yes, Yes, YES! I'm actually writing a book about this exact phenomenon. As the government has increased its role in our lives, the citizens of this country have gradually become less charitable, less wealthy, less optimistic, and less happy. Or to look at the other side: more greedy, more poor, more pessimistic, more depressed.
Socialism: Modern Day Slavery
3 hours ago · Delete
Cory *****
to which I will add 2 things: if you are ever in a situation that you have exhausted every other means available to you and you genuinely don't know where your next meal is going to come from, then let's talk about "never a reason." Second, let's also remember that, so far as we are talking about state and local government, there are no constitutional restraints on which the local legislature cannot act beyond those enumerated in the US constitution. Therefore, as long as the citizens of Utah elect leaders they believe to be meeting their needs, they have complete say over what happens at a local level. So no taxpayer money is forced out of anyone; and if you feel like you don't have control, get out and campaign for new representation. The electorate dictates who goes to represent them, and to the extent that the representation does not satisfy the needs of its base, that same electorate can oust their representative. Congress is shackled by the constitution, but state government is specifically empowered by it. I'm not for government health care, but if it came up on Utah's capitol hill I couldn't make the argument that it's against the constitution; I'd have to find some other argument. It is the same with state welfare programs. The point is we have plenty of control over this stuff; your vote is your control.
All I'm saying is let's qualify these differences between state and federal governments. The Founder's recognized such differences and specifically created protections for that distinction. Federal burecrats have worked tirelessly in the last 100 years or so to erode those distinctions, but they exist nonetheless and for good reason. That's all I'm asking.
Lastly before we get too accusatory of socialism as a concept, someone please tell me what they think the United Order is. Perhaps a better interpretation is, when administered with compassion and in the absence of personal ambition, socialism can work great. But for our greedy and selfish times, yes indeed it is akin to slavery.
2 hours ago · Delete
Michael *****
Haha Brad you know me well ;) And I thought that in the handbook it said church then government. Thanks for setting that straight. And yes, I would rather steal than let my family starve. In an ideal society, we would care for those around us in need so that they would not need the dole, but this is hardly an ideal society at this point. And I'm sorry to hear that things turned south for you, but I know you and I know that you will bounce back well, given the time you need. I wish you all the best and you and your family are in my prayers. :)
about an hour ago · Delete
Brad *****
Wow. Cory, you and I could talk for hours about this topic and we should. There are a few things I think would differentiate my stand on government:
1. Government is a gun. The only power government has is the power to enforce laws using the threat of force. Taxes were originally voluntary, but now are enforced by threat of force.
2. Although the Constitution of the United States of America has reserved greater power to the states, each state has a constitution that is also designed to reign in government power to protect the freedom of its citizens. Most of these documents (including Utah's) reserved greater power for smaller government bodies, ie... counties, cities etc... Governments have been instituted among men to preserve liberty, not grant prosperity. Many of the roles the state governments play weren't allowed by their original constitutions. These documents have been amended to allow for greater role of government in their citizens lives. These laws are now completely legal much like the federal laws we disagree with, that doesn't make them morally right. They still take from some citizens without their consent with threat of force; use some and pass some on to other citizens. This is morally wrong.... Read More
3. This brings us to the united order. I once shared your opinion that the united order is just "righteous communism" with the dictator being the only innocent human to ever live on earth, human nature gets put on hold and we don't need to choose between ourselves and everyone else. There is an important difference between this order and communism: choice. Remember the war in heaven? Me either. But I do remember what I was taught about it. Force us to do what's right or let us choose and make mistakes. This is and has been the largest, longest-lasting war EVER. Force or choice. Which one is God's way?
God is a capitalist. Proper choices lead to positive results, force always leads to negative results. I stand on the side of choice. ALWAYS.
about an hour ago · Delete
Cory *****
You are right and I am not disagreeing. I'm only stating that local governments, which are more in touch with the people, are better able to serve the needs of their constituents, and those constituients can choose to pass laws or not based on their view of the community's needs. I'm not for a second disputing that even local governments are not serving their bases properly, or that they are not living up to their own constitutional requirments. To that end we don't disagree; these things are morally wrong. I guess I am just trying to suggest that the ends of compassion can be served by a government agency so long as that agency is in fact meeting the needs of its electorate, by which I mean adminstering compassion in a manner agreed upon by the voters. If it's within the scope of the supreme law (a constitution) and voted upon by the public, then it is morally acceptable. This also assumes that the voting public are a moral people who have compassion as their motivator and not selfishness. Clearly there is a problem with this logic, and I admit I am trying to take a "glass is half full" perspective with this line of reasoning. I am also trying to justify the fact that I have partaken of this system, more to my shagrin, and am grateful today for its existence. I suppose I should just own the fact that I am a hypocrit right now and stop trying to justify my acceptance of something I morally oppose. I'm just trying to do what's best for my kids. Insert some comment regarding "jusitification" and "masturbation" here.
And I agree whole-heartedly with what you said regarding the United Order. It is a socialistic system, but one predicated on choice which is why it works. This because those who participate in it have chosen to grant their labors to a cause greater than themselves, and it is administered by the only perfect being ever to have lived. If it were any other way, it would be no different than any socialist or communist regime before it. So as you aptly put, the difference is choice. We are clearly arguing the same point, at least so it appears to me.
We should indeed discuss this more at length, althought I fear we may end up preaching to the choir as we probably aren't as dissimilar in our views as these postings might indicate to the casual observer. If you're ever in Logan, let's do lunch.
43 minutes ago · Delete
Brad *****
Cory. Well stated. I believe very strongly in associating with like-minded individuals. We seem to be such. Next time I'm up that way, I'll let you know. It will probably be next Tuesday (a week from tomorrow). I go as far north as bountiful on Tuesdays. Likewise if you're ever in Utah county give me a call. I'll message you my contact info.
On a side note about the united order, I believe that the temple-worthy members of the LDS church are already supposed to be living this order. We've covenanted to such. I'm still struggling to get my home teaching done and get to church every week. No one's perfect; well there was this one guy once...
10 minutes ago · Delete
Friday, April 10, 2009
Somalian Pirate Terrorists
I'm reading all about Somalian pirates lately. Why the heck is this getting so much attention and how is it not more simple than this? When force is initiated by another against you, you have the right to return force.
Were I in charge of the situation, I would refuse to negotiate in any way with these terrorists. The 3-step plan I would use to remedy the situation follows:
1) Train as many weapons on the pirates as possible.
2) Notify the pirates that they have five minutes to surrender the captain and themselves to stay alive. Let them know that at the 5 minute marker we would shoot one pirate every minute until their complete surrender or annihilation. If harm comes to the captain, this would end our interest in their vessel and it would be completely destroyed with no mercy to occupants. (military ordinance sufficient to vaporize the boat is present)
3) Carry out the plan.
Is there risk that the US freight captain could be harmed or killed? Yes. There is fairly good likelihood already. The only card these pirates would have is the well-being of their hostage. Regardless of outcome in this situation, following this methodology would definitely be a very effective deterrent against future standoffs of this type.
"Stand up for freedom, no matter what the cost."
Were I in charge of the situation, I would refuse to negotiate in any way with these terrorists. The 3-step plan I would use to remedy the situation follows:
1) Train as many weapons on the pirates as possible.
2) Notify the pirates that they have five minutes to surrender the captain and themselves to stay alive. Let them know that at the 5 minute marker we would shoot one pirate every minute until their complete surrender or annihilation. If harm comes to the captain, this would end our interest in their vessel and it would be completely destroyed with no mercy to occupants. (military ordinance sufficient to vaporize the boat is present)
3) Carry out the plan.
Is there risk that the US freight captain could be harmed or killed? Yes. There is fairly good likelihood already. The only card these pirates would have is the well-being of their hostage. Regardless of outcome in this situation, following this methodology would definitely be a very effective deterrent against future standoffs of this type.
"Stand up for freedom, no matter what the cost."
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Pamela Anderson, Tuesday, wrote a letter of recommendation to President Elect Obama asking him to legalize marijuana, take steps to "prevent" molestation, along with other things. You can read this article at the following web address:
http://www.pamelachannel.com/channel/2008/11/18/recommended-reading-to-mr-president-elect-obama-from-pamela-anderson/
I agree and disagree with the points in her letter and as such would like to comment on them.
1. Leonard Peltier was convicted by a jury of his peers. He exercised his right to an appeal as is proper when one believes they've been wrongly convicted; the conviction stood. Either a) he's guilty; or b) the system is broken and needs to be fixed. Either way, he is to stay in jail until one of those things change.
2. The jails are full due to constantly growing legislation in the realm of "malum prohibitam". Solution: stop prohibiting things that don't violate other peoples RIGHTS.
3. Preventing molestation by castrating potential molestors sounds outwardly like a great solution; but who get's to decide who the people are that get their jewels cut off because they're a "potential" molestor? That sounds like a direct violation of their right to chose if they will actually commit the crime! This one idea won't fill the jails up more, but the jails are full of people who haven't actually committed crimes "malum in se". Creating laws prohibiting certain acts to prevent actual crimes only fill up the jails with people who haven't yet actually violated anyone's rights.
4. Legalise marijuana and hemp. How does posessing or even using these herbs personally affect anyone but yourself? People argue that someone that is 'high' could drive wrecklessly and kill someone accidentally or damage property; I agree. There's already laws against vehicular manslaughter. If they cause damage to someone else or their property, they should be punished for that damage. Laws that attempt to prevent someone from having access to these herbs don't work and cause corruption and increased jail time for people that don't want to be ruled by an authoritative government. These plants can be used for so much more than recreational consumption, but there's nothing 'malum in se' (wrong) with even using them recreationally.
5. Bring the troops home safely. Yes, always. Make sure bad people know we're not afraid to shoot back, then put our guns away when "the coast is clear".
6. "Stop animal testing" she claims this is unproductive and mean. I posit that we should stop government involvement in scientific research and let people using unproductive research methods go bankrupt for their inability to adapt to a constantly changing scientific world. Punish researchers if they violate other PEOPLE's rights.
7. Get rid of private insurance and private medicine? Let the government handle it? WTF? Does she even listen to herself? (see her arguments 1-6) The government screws up everything it touches! We should only let the government control what can not be more fairly controlled by individuals or businesses that can be boycotted by market forces. The degree to which the government has become involved in any industry (especially medical) is the degree to which they fail!
8. Promote vegetarianism? This is an example of the unintended consequences in making the government responsible for our health (see 7). It's cheaper on everyone if we just live healthily, so it does hurt other people if we're not vegetarians, or exercise two hours a day, or sleep enough, etc. you get the point. Seeing healthy people living happily around us promotes a healthy lifestyle; if you want to promote it: be it!
9. Shut down Guantanamo Bay; I agree. All human beings have natural rights to their life and the productive result thereof (life liberty and the pursuit of happiness). ALL other roads lead to oppression, death and destruction. Government was instituted by men to protect these rights and should be dissolved when it becomes destructive to this end.
10. Immigration, taxation, and entitlement mentality are indisputably connected. Here's how you solve them: bring us your poor, your tired, or your huddled masses; we'll let them work and keep what they create. The work they produce here in our country creates wealth for all who participate. If you don't work, and don't create anything; the laws of the universe dictate that you will perish of exposure, thirst, or hunger. Create value for a church or charity or caring person and they'll help keep you alive even if this value is only feeling good about helping you. Create value somehow or die. So say the laws of the universe.
The one and only job of the government is to defend and preserve liberty. Anything more or less allows tyranny and will always, always, ALWAYS lead to death, hatred, and unhappiness.
Government is not the solution to our problem; Government is the problem - Ronald Reagan, first inaugural address, Tuesday, January 20, 1981.
http://www.pamelachannel.com/channel/2008/11/18/recommended-reading-to-mr-president-elect-obama-from-pamela-anderson/
I agree and disagree with the points in her letter and as such would like to comment on them.
1. Leonard Peltier was convicted by a jury of his peers. He exercised his right to an appeal as is proper when one believes they've been wrongly convicted; the conviction stood. Either a) he's guilty; or b) the system is broken and needs to be fixed. Either way, he is to stay in jail until one of those things change.
2. The jails are full due to constantly growing legislation in the realm of "malum prohibitam". Solution: stop prohibiting things that don't violate other peoples RIGHTS.
3. Preventing molestation by castrating potential molestors sounds outwardly like a great solution; but who get's to decide who the people are that get their jewels cut off because they're a "potential" molestor? That sounds like a direct violation of their right to chose if they will actually commit the crime! This one idea won't fill the jails up more, but the jails are full of people who haven't actually committed crimes "malum in se". Creating laws prohibiting certain acts to prevent actual crimes only fill up the jails with people who haven't yet actually violated anyone's rights.
4. Legalise marijuana and hemp. How does posessing or even using these herbs personally affect anyone but yourself? People argue that someone that is 'high' could drive wrecklessly and kill someone accidentally or damage property; I agree. There's already laws against vehicular manslaughter. If they cause damage to someone else or their property, they should be punished for that damage. Laws that attempt to prevent someone from having access to these herbs don't work and cause corruption and increased jail time for people that don't want to be ruled by an authoritative government. These plants can be used for so much more than recreational consumption, but there's nothing 'malum in se' (wrong) with even using them recreationally.
5. Bring the troops home safely. Yes, always. Make sure bad people know we're not afraid to shoot back, then put our guns away when "the coast is clear".
6. "Stop animal testing" she claims this is unproductive and mean. I posit that we should stop government involvement in scientific research and let people using unproductive research methods go bankrupt for their inability to adapt to a constantly changing scientific world. Punish researchers if they violate other PEOPLE's rights.
7. Get rid of private insurance and private medicine? Let the government handle it? WTF? Does she even listen to herself? (see her arguments 1-6) The government screws up everything it touches! We should only let the government control what can not be more fairly controlled by individuals or businesses that can be boycotted by market forces. The degree to which the government has become involved in any industry (especially medical) is the degree to which they fail!
8. Promote vegetarianism? This is an example of the unintended consequences in making the government responsible for our health (see 7). It's cheaper on everyone if we just live healthily, so it does hurt other people if we're not vegetarians, or exercise two hours a day, or sleep enough, etc. you get the point. Seeing healthy people living happily around us promotes a healthy lifestyle; if you want to promote it: be it!
9. Shut down Guantanamo Bay; I agree. All human beings have natural rights to their life and the productive result thereof (life liberty and the pursuit of happiness). ALL other roads lead to oppression, death and destruction. Government was instituted by men to protect these rights and should be dissolved when it becomes destructive to this end.
10. Immigration, taxation, and entitlement mentality are indisputably connected. Here's how you solve them: bring us your poor, your tired, or your huddled masses; we'll let them work and keep what they create. The work they produce here in our country creates wealth for all who participate. If you don't work, and don't create anything; the laws of the universe dictate that you will perish of exposure, thirst, or hunger. Create value for a church or charity or caring person and they'll help keep you alive even if this value is only feeling good about helping you. Create value somehow or die. So say the laws of the universe.
The one and only job of the government is to defend and preserve liberty. Anything more or less allows tyranny and will always, always, ALWAYS lead to death, hatred, and unhappiness.
Government is not the solution to our problem; Government is the problem - Ronald Reagan, first inaugural address, Tuesday, January 20, 1981.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Fiat Currency - A friend's take:
The following article was posted by a close friend of mine, Ryan Nelson. I thought it noteworthy as he articulates very well the concept of fiat currency and how important for each of us to understand this concept and the unintended consequences of the actions being taken by our elected representatives as well as an appointed few. Enjoy this terrific "light reading":
“…it is natural to man to indulge in the illusions of hope. We are apt to shut our eyes against a painful truth, and listen to the song of that siren, (in mythology a siren is an evil mermaid) till she transforms us into beasts. Is this the part of wise men, engaged in a great and arduous struggle for liberty? Are we disposed to be of the number of those who, having eyes, see not, and having ears, hear not, the things which so nearly concern their temporal salvation? For my part, whatever anguish of spirit it may cost, I am willing to know the whole truth; to know the worst and to provide for it.
I have but one lamp by which my feet are guided; and that is the lamp of experience. I know of no way of judging of the future but by the past.”
Am I the only one to find that insightful? Don’t we all at some point “indulge in illusions of hope” or “shut our eyes against a painful truth”? I would like for a moment to use history to analyze the economic state of our nation & venture an opinion of the future.
A Fiat currency is any monetary system where the medium of exchange is not backed by something of intrinsic value. It can be gold, silver, diamonds or land, anything which cannot readily be reproduced or forged. Our Dollar, like most currencies around the world, is a Fiat currency. This style of monetary system has been tried repeatedly over many years, in all parts of the world, by all types of governments. The Chinese & Mongols tried as did, among others, the Romans and Germans. It has in every case failed miserably. Because there is no physical limit or check on how much can be printed, every nation inevitably deludes their economy with so much money that the currency looses its value. Trust in the currency is lost & the market crashes. This crash always results in a new currency & many times is accompanied by a new form of government. The question is are we, can we, as Americans be the exception to the rule?
I understand that up until about 4 months ago the average number of US Dollars in circulation was approximately 800 billion. Anyone know what it is today? When you add up the FORCED bank bailouts, the purchase of a controlling share of AIG, the economic stimulus packages and all the other hokey spending decisions, the number of available dollars is well over 2 trillion. In the last several weeks the amount of money in circulation has tripled. And they are talking about adding more.
There are soooo many problems with what is being done to our money and the way it is being done. But the one which will directly affect each of our lives in the not far distant future is inflation, HUGE, RAPID inflation. Look at it like this, the amount of products and services available for purchase has not changed. Yet the amount of dollars available to spend on those same products has tripled. Sooner or later someone will be able and willing to pay 3 times as much for the same item. Think about all of the products imported from Asia & elsewhere. Our money supply increases yet theirs remains constant. What does that do to our ability to purchase their products? In order to maintain a fair balance in trade they must of necessity increase prices. The price we pay for every item across the board will rise. Our cost of living will likely double or worse. We cannot now change it, the die has already been cast. Although currently low, due to supply & demand issues of both product & money, prices will rise drastically. Wages will not rise equally nor simultaneously. Real wages (wage adjusted for inflation) are among the lowest levels in more than 50 years. Inflation does not help the average Joe. Our standard of living, the way we live our lives is about to change.
These events were knowingly or otherwise set in motion nearly a hundred years ago when in December of 1913 the Federal Reserve act was passed. This act created a system of government accepted private banks known as the Federal Reserve System. It also transferred the power to coin money & regulate its supply to this same unaccountable private organization. A strict interpretation of the Constitution of the United States would consider this action Unconstitutional. President Woodrow Willson signed the Federal Reserve Act into law. He later lamented,
“I am a most unhappy man. I have unwittingly ruined my country…. The growth of the nation … and all our activities are in the hands of a few men. We have come to be one of the worst ruled, one of the most completely controlled and dominated Governments in the civilized world no longer a Government by conviction and the vote of the majority, but a Government by the opinion and duress of a small group of dominant men.”
I believe it to be imperative for us as responsible citizens to know & understand these things. We cannot effect positive change in the direction of our nation without knowledge. I echo the words of Patrick Henry, “For my part, whatever anguish of spirit it may cost, I am willing to know the whole truth; to know the worst and to provide for it.”Be watchful, be aware & most of all be prepared.
In all of this there is a ray of hope. God is in control, our days will not be numbered less. He is watching over us & will protect us & see us through, come what may. Further there are prophecies which promise that this, the greatest of all nations, will not fall. It will be preserved, upheld and even rescued. As you prepare and make the necessary physical changes to ready yourself and your family for the pending crisis. Search your soul, identify what part you may be asked to play in the rescue of the Constitution & prepare for that as well.
For What it’s Worth
Ryan
Patric Henry...... Today.
“Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains & slavery?... I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty, or give me death!” These bold, passionate words spoken by Patrick Henry in 1775 still touch & inspire freedom loving souls across the country. Yet as I recently reread his speech this closing statement is not what most impacted me. His opening arguments in many ways seem much more timely. Addressing those of his day unwilling to take action or even make preparations, those who clung vainly to hope of reconciliation with England. He proposed that;“…it is natural to man to indulge in the illusions of hope. We are apt to shut our eyes against a painful truth, and listen to the song of that siren, (in mythology a siren is an evil mermaid) till she transforms us into beasts. Is this the part of wise men, engaged in a great and arduous struggle for liberty? Are we disposed to be of the number of those who, having eyes, see not, and having ears, hear not, the things which so nearly concern their temporal salvation? For my part, whatever anguish of spirit it may cost, I am willing to know the whole truth; to know the worst and to provide for it.
I have but one lamp by which my feet are guided; and that is the lamp of experience. I know of no way of judging of the future but by the past.”
Am I the only one to find that insightful? Don’t we all at some point “indulge in illusions of hope” or “shut our eyes against a painful truth”? I would like for a moment to use history to analyze the economic state of our nation & venture an opinion of the future.
A Fiat currency is any monetary system where the medium of exchange is not backed by something of intrinsic value. It can be gold, silver, diamonds or land, anything which cannot readily be reproduced or forged. Our Dollar, like most currencies around the world, is a Fiat currency. This style of monetary system has been tried repeatedly over many years, in all parts of the world, by all types of governments. The Chinese & Mongols tried as did, among others, the Romans and Germans. It has in every case failed miserably. Because there is no physical limit or check on how much can be printed, every nation inevitably deludes their economy with so much money that the currency looses its value. Trust in the currency is lost & the market crashes. This crash always results in a new currency & many times is accompanied by a new form of government. The question is are we, can we, as Americans be the exception to the rule?
I understand that up until about 4 months ago the average number of US Dollars in circulation was approximately 800 billion. Anyone know what it is today? When you add up the FORCED bank bailouts, the purchase of a controlling share of AIG, the economic stimulus packages and all the other hokey spending decisions, the number of available dollars is well over 2 trillion. In the last several weeks the amount of money in circulation has tripled. And they are talking about adding more.
There are soooo many problems with what is being done to our money and the way it is being done. But the one which will directly affect each of our lives in the not far distant future is inflation, HUGE, RAPID inflation. Look at it like this, the amount of products and services available for purchase has not changed. Yet the amount of dollars available to spend on those same products has tripled. Sooner or later someone will be able and willing to pay 3 times as much for the same item. Think about all of the products imported from Asia & elsewhere. Our money supply increases yet theirs remains constant. What does that do to our ability to purchase their products? In order to maintain a fair balance in trade they must of necessity increase prices. The price we pay for every item across the board will rise. Our cost of living will likely double or worse. We cannot now change it, the die has already been cast. Although currently low, due to supply & demand issues of both product & money, prices will rise drastically. Wages will not rise equally nor simultaneously. Real wages (wage adjusted for inflation) are among the lowest levels in more than 50 years. Inflation does not help the average Joe. Our standard of living, the way we live our lives is about to change.
These events were knowingly or otherwise set in motion nearly a hundred years ago when in December of 1913 the Federal Reserve act was passed. This act created a system of government accepted private banks known as the Federal Reserve System. It also transferred the power to coin money & regulate its supply to this same unaccountable private organization. A strict interpretation of the Constitution of the United States would consider this action Unconstitutional. President Woodrow Willson signed the Federal Reserve Act into law. He later lamented,
“I am a most unhappy man. I have unwittingly ruined my country…. The growth of the nation … and all our activities are in the hands of a few men. We have come to be one of the worst ruled, one of the most completely controlled and dominated Governments in the civilized world no longer a Government by conviction and the vote of the majority, but a Government by the opinion and duress of a small group of dominant men.”
I believe it to be imperative for us as responsible citizens to know & understand these things. We cannot effect positive change in the direction of our nation without knowledge. I echo the words of Patrick Henry, “For my part, whatever anguish of spirit it may cost, I am willing to know the whole truth; to know the worst and to provide for it.”Be watchful, be aware & most of all be prepared.
In all of this there is a ray of hope. God is in control, our days will not be numbered less. He is watching over us & will protect us & see us through, come what may. Further there are prophecies which promise that this, the greatest of all nations, will not fall. It will be preserved, upheld and even rescued. As you prepare and make the necessary physical changes to ready yourself and your family for the pending crisis. Search your soul, identify what part you may be asked to play in the rescue of the Constitution & prepare for that as well.
For What it’s Worth
Ryan
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