A company sets it's prices based on what they paid to create the product and what they want as profit. A company will rarely charge less than the production cost. Even when they compete with other companies, they will still make a profit. Inflation and ridiculous markups ensure that companies make a profit.
Bartering is all but dead in this country. I can not go into a store and make them give me a product for less than what they paid to make it. They're always going to make some sort of profit. Even with discounts and coupons.
Here's what's fucked up. A company puts out a job notice. They're the ones who need the workers. Yet they're the one's who set the price of labor. Shouldn't it be the other way around? They're the customers and the product is labor. The laborer should be setting the price.
For more skilled workers this is the case. Sort of. The Employer sets a price and the prospective employee negotiates that price. If they're good, they get what they want.
I think that workers should be the lead in setting their wages and benefits, not businesses. Even with competition from other workers
Workers should look at their costs of living, look at the hours they are willing to work, look at the difficulty of the work they are willing to do, look at the costs of their education, look at their goals. They factor all this into to price they will set for their labor.
Unskilled laborers should not feel like they have no negotiating power. We found this out when Mexican labor dropped in agriculture.
In today's economy, most employers complain that the job applicants aren't qualified. This means more leverage for those who are qualified.
I hate the fact that unskilled laborers are made to think that their labor isn't valuable because some inflated sense of labor competition.
What sucks is that when businesses compete they still make a profit. When people compete, their wages drop or remain stagnant while inflation and costs of living goes up.
It leads me to believe (warning: conspiracy trip) that businesses have more solidarity than we think.
Companies do give away products for free; but not at the expense of their profits. They do it because they can afford to.
Where in the world are people taught how to put a real value on their labor?
Workers should not be settling for a minimum wage. They should be negotiating a living wage for themselves
31 January 2012
A Note to the Wealthy
You don't have anything I want
There is nothing about you that I want to emulate.
I am disgusted that you could justify your abundance while people, especially children, are homeless or in danger of losing their homes
While people don't know where or how they'll get there next meal
while people can't afford health care
while people can't afford an education
while people can't find jobs that will give them a living wage.
I'm disgusted by the lies
You acknowledge that you have the power to make things better by calling yourself a 'job creator'
but you're not interested in creating jobs. You're interested in creating profit. And you know that jobs take away from your profit.
You lie about regulations and taxes. Knowing that you make more than enough to provide jobs that people can live off of.
I'm angered by your condescension. The idea that people want to take from others or want handouts instead of wanting to earn their living.
I'm most disturbed by the fact that you can call yourself Christians.
So I'm not jealous or envious.
I have a home
I can eat at any hour of the day
I have money to pursue further education
I have good health insurance.
The difference between you and I is that I give a fuck about other people
I care about people who can't do anything for me
I give to those who can not benefit me
There is nothing about you that I want to emulate.
I am disgusted that you could justify your abundance while people, especially children, are homeless or in danger of losing their homes
While people don't know where or how they'll get there next meal
while people can't afford health care
while people can't afford an education
while people can't find jobs that will give them a living wage.
I'm disgusted by the lies
You acknowledge that you have the power to make things better by calling yourself a 'job creator'
but you're not interested in creating jobs. You're interested in creating profit. And you know that jobs take away from your profit.
You lie about regulations and taxes. Knowing that you make more than enough to provide jobs that people can live off of.
I'm angered by your condescension. The idea that people want to take from others or want handouts instead of wanting to earn their living.
I'm most disturbed by the fact that you can call yourself Christians.
So I'm not jealous or envious.
I have a home
I can eat at any hour of the day
I have money to pursue further education
I have good health insurance.
The difference between you and I is that I give a fuck about other people
I care about people who can't do anything for me
I give to those who can not benefit me
A term for Sexuality
The one problem I have with giving women who only want to have sex with women another label is that 'bisexual' is a word describing one's sexuality. It's clearly a sexual term. Not one describing someone's romantic or love interests.
Bisexual is in the same family as homosexual or heterosexual. Strictly terms for one's sexuality
So technically, realistically, and honestly, a woman who likes having sex with men and women, regardless of her romantic leanings or who she falls in love with, is correct to call herself bisexual.
Maybe it's a woman's nature to be adverse to a term that only describes one's sexuality, but, bisexual is just that.
I think the we're hitting a wall because, in the QUILTBAG, Bisexual is one of two labels that is strictly about sexuality. The other being asexual.
asexualty
I don't know of any QUILTBAGs that identify as homosexual or heterosexual. They usually call themselves gay or lesbian. Even heterosexuals are called straight.
Gay, lesbian, and straight are terms that describe more than sexuality, those terms are about love and lifestyle and everything else.
So really, homosexual, heterosexual, and bisexual are fair terms to describe one's sexual orientation or attraction.
They aren't very good at describing one's identity. Gay, lesbian, straight are more oft used for that. So this leaves out bisexuals.
Queer isn't a word everyone wants to use due to it's history, so I can see why women who are attracted to women and men would rather identify as gay or straight. Because those terms are about more than just sexuality.
I'm queer because it's the best description of me overall (sexuality excluded). I identify as indifferent or equal opportunity if people push.
Maybe it is all in a word. I'll make this assumption that is in line with the statistics. If you asked someone straight out, more people would confess to their sexual behavior. People would be honest if asked 'Have you had sex with men and women'. They would also be honest about their attractions; 'are you attracted to men and women'.
If you asked someone their identity, the answers are so subjective they don't completely match up with their behavior or attraction. This is true of straight, gay, and bisexual people. And they aren't being dishonest. Identity is not the same for everyone. Identity is about more than who you want to screw or who you have screwed. So you're not going to get the answer you want based on your understanding of identity. You're going to get the answer based on their understanding of identity
Bisexual is in the same family as homosexual or heterosexual. Strictly terms for one's sexuality
So technically, realistically, and honestly, a woman who likes having sex with men and women, regardless of her romantic leanings or who she falls in love with, is correct to call herself bisexual.
Maybe it's a woman's nature to be adverse to a term that only describes one's sexuality, but, bisexual is just that.
I think the we're hitting a wall because, in the QUILTBAG, Bisexual is one of two labels that is strictly about sexuality. The other being asexual.
asexualty
I don't know of any QUILTBAGs that identify as homosexual or heterosexual. They usually call themselves gay or lesbian. Even heterosexuals are called straight.
Gay, lesbian, and straight are terms that describe more than sexuality, those terms are about love and lifestyle and everything else.
So really, homosexual, heterosexual, and bisexual are fair terms to describe one's sexual orientation or attraction.
They aren't very good at describing one's identity. Gay, lesbian, straight are more oft used for that. So this leaves out bisexuals.
Queer isn't a word everyone wants to use due to it's history, so I can see why women who are attracted to women and men would rather identify as gay or straight. Because those terms are about more than just sexuality.
I'm queer because it's the best description of me overall (sexuality excluded). I identify as indifferent or equal opportunity if people push.
Maybe it is all in a word. I'll make this assumption that is in line with the statistics. If you asked someone straight out, more people would confess to their sexual behavior. People would be honest if asked 'Have you had sex with men and women'. They would also be honest about their attractions; 'are you attracted to men and women'.
If you asked someone their identity, the answers are so subjective they don't completely match up with their behavior or attraction. This is true of straight, gay, and bisexual people. And they aren't being dishonest. Identity is not the same for everyone. Identity is about more than who you want to screw or who you have screwed. So you're not going to get the answer you want based on your understanding of identity. You're going to get the answer based on their understanding of identity
29 January 2012
Queer
Word of the day
Adj
Strange
Odd
Homosexual
informal usu. offensive (esp. of a man)
differing from the normal or usual in a way regarded as odd or strange
suspicious, dubious, or shady
faint, giddy, or queasy
informal , taboo homosexual
informal odd or unbalanced mentally; eccentric or slightly mad
slang worthless or counterfeit
1508, "strange, peculiar, eccentric," from Scottish, perhaps from Low Ger. (Brunswick dialect) queer "oblique, off-center," related to Ger. quer "oblique, perverse, odd," from O.H.G. twerh "oblique," from PIE base *twerk- "to turn, twist, wind" (related to thwart). The verb
Synonyms
unconventional, curious, freakish, eccentric, weird. strange.
Originally pejorative for gay, now being reclaimed by some gay men, lesbians, bisexuals and transgendered persons as a self-affirming umbrella term. Caution: still extremely offensive when used as an epithet.
Queer has traditionally meant odd or unusual, though modern use often pertains to LGBT (gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, intersex and non-normative heterosexual) people.
Its usage is considered controversial and underwent substantial changes over the course of the 20th century with some LGBT people reclaiming the term as a means of self-empowerment.
The term is still considered by some to be offensive and derisive, and by others as a re-appropriated term used to describe a sexual orientation and/or gender identity or gender expression that does not conform to heteronormative society.
In contemporary usage, some use queer as an inclusive, unifying sociopolitical, self-affirming umbrella term for people who are gay, lesbian, bisexual, pansexual, transgender, transsexual, intersexual, genderqueer, or of any other non-heterosexual sexuality, sexual anatomy, or gender identity.
It can also include asexual and autosexual people, as well as gender normative heterosexuals whose sexual orientations or activities place them outside the heterosexual-defined mainstream (e.g. BDSM practitioners or polyamorous persons). Queer in this sense (depending on how broadly it is defined) is commonly used as a synonym for such terms as LGBT.
aglbical
urban dictionary
dictionary
Adj
Strange
Odd
Homosexual
informal usu. offensive (esp. of a man)
differing from the normal or usual in a way regarded as odd or strange
suspicious, dubious, or shady
faint, giddy, or queasy
informal , taboo homosexual
informal odd or unbalanced mentally; eccentric or slightly mad
slang worthless or counterfeit
1508, "strange, peculiar, eccentric," from Scottish, perhaps from Low Ger. (Brunswick dialect) queer "oblique, off-center," related to Ger. quer "oblique, perverse, odd," from O.H.G. twerh "oblique," from PIE base *twerk- "to turn, twist, wind" (related to thwart). The verb
Synonyms
unconventional, curious, freakish, eccentric, weird. strange.
Originally pejorative for gay, now being reclaimed by some gay men, lesbians, bisexuals and transgendered persons as a self-affirming umbrella term. Caution: still extremely offensive when used as an epithet.
Queer has traditionally meant odd or unusual, though modern use often pertains to LGBT (gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, intersex and non-normative heterosexual) people.
Its usage is considered controversial and underwent substantial changes over the course of the 20th century with some LGBT people reclaiming the term as a means of self-empowerment.
The term is still considered by some to be offensive and derisive, and by others as a re-appropriated term used to describe a sexual orientation and/or gender identity or gender expression that does not conform to heteronormative society.
In contemporary usage, some use queer as an inclusive, unifying sociopolitical, self-affirming umbrella term for people who are gay, lesbian, bisexual, pansexual, transgender, transsexual, intersexual, genderqueer, or of any other non-heterosexual sexuality, sexual anatomy, or gender identity.
It can also include asexual and autosexual people, as well as gender normative heterosexuals whose sexual orientations or activities place them outside the heterosexual-defined mainstream (e.g. BDSM practitioners or polyamorous persons). Queer in this sense (depending on how broadly it is defined) is commonly used as a synonym for such terms as LGBT.
aglbical
urban dictionary
dictionary
28 January 2012
I love sex
Or at least the idea of sex.
When I was my own kind of devout christian, I wanted to save myself for marriage
Now I'm a queer kid, I learned that marriage wasn't necessary.
Though I still think love is
I think that sex is sacred. It holds spiritual power
And if it isn't sacred then it is definitely something that should be taken more seriously than it is
More powerful (and often dangerous) than we give it credit for.
Fosters attachment and masks love
Like a drug. Addiction
I'm affectionate. I love intimacy
But I've found that sex isn't worth the crap I have to put up with in order to get it regularly.
Maybe if I felt fully connected I'd think differently. But I haven't
I really just want to cuddle...maybe a little kiss here and there.
I love sex. I don't like having sex with people I don't want to be attached to. I don't like the feeling after having sex with someone I'm not attached to. Or having sex and getting attached to someone before it's really prudent
Disease and drama have no place in my life
So, bottom line. I don't have a problem with sex. I have a problem with people.
When I was my own kind of devout christian, I wanted to save myself for marriage
Now I'm a queer kid, I learned that marriage wasn't necessary.
Though I still think love is
I think that sex is sacred. It holds spiritual power
And if it isn't sacred then it is definitely something that should be taken more seriously than it is
More powerful (and often dangerous) than we give it credit for.
Fosters attachment and masks love
Like a drug. Addiction
I'm affectionate. I love intimacy
But I've found that sex isn't worth the crap I have to put up with in order to get it regularly.
Maybe if I felt fully connected I'd think differently. But I haven't
I really just want to cuddle...maybe a little kiss here and there.
I love sex. I don't like having sex with people I don't want to be attached to. I don't like the feeling after having sex with someone I'm not attached to. Or having sex and getting attached to someone before it's really prudent
Disease and drama have no place in my life
So, bottom line. I don't have a problem with sex. I have a problem with people.
26 January 2012
Deep Horoscope
In Bill Moyers' DVD The Language of Life, poet Naomi Shihab Nye is shown giving advice to aspiring young poets. She urges them to keep an open mind about where their creative urges might take them. Sometimes when you start a poem, she says, you think you want to go to church, but where you end up is at the dog races. I'll make that same point to you, Gemini. As you tune in to the looming call to adventure, don't be too sure you know what destination it has in mind for you. You might be inclined to assume it'll lead you toward a local bar for drinks when in fact it's nudging you in the direction of a wild frontier for a divine brouhaha.
It's not too late to hear my long-range, in-depth explorations of your destiny in 2012. What new influences will be headed your way in the coming months?
*
SACRED ADVERTISEMENT
According to Jewish legend, there are in each generation 36 righteous humans who prevent the rest of us from being destroyed. Through their extraordinary good deeds and their love of the divine spark, they save the world over and over again. They're not famous saints, though. They go about their business anonymously, and no one knows how crucial they are to our well-being.
Might you be one of the 36? As a temporary experiment, act as if you are.
It's not too late to hear my long-range, in-depth explorations of your destiny in 2012. What new influences will be headed your way in the coming months?
*
SACRED ADVERTISEMENT
According to Jewish legend, there are in each generation 36 righteous humans who prevent the rest of us from being destroyed. Through their extraordinary good deeds and their love of the divine spark, they save the world over and over again. They're not famous saints, though. They go about their business anonymously, and no one knows how crucial they are to our well-being.
Might you be one of the 36? As a temporary experiment, act as if you are.
20 January 2012
New System
Here's what bugs me (not about any one person in particular). When the government screws up, it's like there's a call for the apocalypse.
When businesses screw up, it's just a little mischief.
Businesses have run government since we were founded.
I really don't care about bailouts. I care about workers and consumers being exploited.
I care about people not having affordable housing, health care, education, and healthy food; and good jobs that provide those things.
Every American can have those things. This idea of scarce resources is bull. We have enough for everyone. It's either being hoarded or wasted.
Every economic system is better than the one before it. It's time for our economy to evolve into something better.
I don't care about any systems that are over 200 years old. Time has proven that they can't overcome human nature.
I think we are smart enough to come up with a new economic system that can provide what is needed for everyone without coercion.
When businesses screw up, it's just a little mischief.
Businesses have run government since we were founded.
I really don't care about bailouts. I care about workers and consumers being exploited.
I care about people not having affordable housing, health care, education, and healthy food; and good jobs that provide those things.
Every American can have those things. This idea of scarce resources is bull. We have enough for everyone. It's either being hoarded or wasted.
Every economic system is better than the one before it. It's time for our economy to evolve into something better.
I don't care about any systems that are over 200 years old. Time has proven that they can't overcome human nature.
I think we are smart enough to come up with a new economic system that can provide what is needed for everyone without coercion.
19 January 2012
Deep Horoscope
"It is respectable to have no illusions -- and safe -- and profitable and dull," said author Joseph Conrad. Taking our cue from his liberating derision, I propose that we protest the dullness of having no illusions. Let's decry the blah gray sterility that comes from entertaining no fantastic fantasies and unreasonable dreams. How boring it is to have such machine-like mental hygiene! For this one week, Gemini, I urge you to celebrate your crazy ideas. Treasure and adore your wacky beliefs. Study all those irrational and insane urges running around your mind to see what you can learn about your deep, dark unconsciousness. (P.S.: But I'm not saying you should act on any of those phantasms, at least not now. Simply be amused by them.)
What will be the story of your life in 2012?
*
SACRED ADVERTISEMENT
The iconoclastic physicist Jack Sarfatti proposes that all "creative thought by artists, craftsmen, and scientists involves the subconscious reception of ideas from the future, which literally create themselves."
Beauty and Truth Lab researcher Vimala Blavatsky puts a different spin on it. "Our future selves are constantly transmitting great ideas to us back through time," she says, "but most of us don't believe that's possible and consequently are not alert for it."
What do you think is the most pressing communiqué your future self is currently beaming your way?
*
The preceding oracle comes from my book, PRONOIA Is the Antidote for Paranoia: How the Whole World Is Conspiring to Shower You with Blessings.
18 January 2012
Abuse
Word of the day
noun
1 the improper use of something:
alcohol abuse | an abuse of public funds.
• unjust or corrupt practice:
protection against fraud and abuse
| human rights abuses.
2 cruel and violent treatment of a person or animal:
a black eye and other signs of physical abuse.
• violent treatment involving sexual assault, esp. on a repeated basis:
young people who have suffered sexual abuse.
3 insulting and offensive language:
waving his fists and hurling abuse at the driver.
verb [ with obj. ]
1 use (something) to bad effect or for a bad purpose; misuse:
the judge abused his power by imposing the fines.
• make excessive and habitual use of (alcohol or drugs, esp. illegal ones).
2 treat (a person or an animal) with cruelty or violence, esp. regularly or repeatedly:
riders who abuse their horses should be prosecuted.
• assault (someone, esp. a woman or child) sexually:
he was a depraved man who had abused his two young daughters | (as adj. abused)
: abused children.
• use or treat in such a way as to cause damage or harm:
he had been abusing his body for years.
3 speak in an insulting and offensive way to or about (someone):
the referee was abused by players from both teams.
New Oxford American Dictionary
noun
1 the improper use of something:
alcohol abuse | an abuse of public funds.
• unjust or corrupt practice:
protection against fraud and abuse
| human rights abuses.
2 cruel and violent treatment of a person or animal:
a black eye and other signs of physical abuse.
• violent treatment involving sexual assault, esp. on a repeated basis:
young people who have suffered sexual abuse.
3 insulting and offensive language:
waving his fists and hurling abuse at the driver.
verb [ with obj. ]
1 use (something) to bad effect or for a bad purpose; misuse:
the judge abused his power by imposing the fines.
• make excessive and habitual use of (alcohol or drugs, esp. illegal ones).
2 treat (a person or an animal) with cruelty or violence, esp. regularly or repeatedly:
riders who abuse their horses should be prosecuted.
• assault (someone, esp. a woman or child) sexually:
he was a depraved man who had abused his two young daughters | (as adj. abused)
: abused children.
• use or treat in such a way as to cause damage or harm:
he had been abusing his body for years.
3 speak in an insulting and offensive way to or about (someone):
the referee was abused by players from both teams.
New Oxford American Dictionary
Class in America
What is class in America
Owners of businesses
Managers
Skilled workers
unskilled workers
unemployed
Is it between those who don't receive a wage and don't have income from private sources.
Those who work for a wage.
Those who control other people's wages.
Those who don't receive a wage but have income from private sources
should we distinguish between the poor and working poor?
I don't think a monetary divide could be set.
Owners of businesses
Managers
Skilled workers
unskilled workers
unemployed
Is it between those who don't receive a wage and don't have income from private sources.
Those who work for a wage.
Those who control other people's wages.
Those who don't receive a wage but have income from private sources
should we distinguish between the poor and working poor?
I don't think a monetary divide could be set.
Right
Right
- that which is due every member... by virtue of just claim, fair principle and legal guarantee. A right can only be lost through due process of law.
Just Claim - A right each individual has to petition the organization on that which is not clear by law (written or practiced); i.e., request chit, formal written request, etc.
Fair Principle - A right each individual has to expect equal treatment by virtue of what others receive (i.e., pay, grade, position, etc.)
Legal Guarantee – That which is written and affirmed by higher authority (i.e., laws, contracts, policies, directives, position, etc.). Legal guarantee must be afforded all personnel under the principle of fairness, if not they have a just claim to petition the system.
18.
a just claim or title, whether legal, prescriptive, or moral
: You have a right to say what you please.
19.
Sometimes, rights. that which is due to anyone by just claim, legal guarantees, moral principles, etc.: women's rights; Freedom of speech is a right of all Americans.
23.
Sometimes, rights. the interest or ownership a person, group, or business has in property: He has a 50-percent right in a silver mine. The author controls the screen rights for the book.
25.
Finance.
a.
the privilege, usually preemptive, that accrues to the owners of the stock of a corporation to subscribe to additional shares of stock or securities convertible into stock at an advantageous price.
b.
Often, rights. the privilege of subscribing to a specified amount of a stock or bond issue, or the document certifying this privilege.
Does due process include a popular vote?
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. That to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed.
rights only for Americans or universal.
Constitutional rights, human rights, universal rights, civil rights.
It is important to note the difference between "civil rights" and "civil liberties." The legal area known as "civil rights" has traditionally revolved around the basic right to be free from unequal treatment based on certain protected characteristics (race, gender, disability, etc.) in settings such as employment and housing. "Civil liberties" concern basic rights and freedoms that are guaranteed -- either explicitly identified in the Bill of Rights and the Constitution, or interpreted through the years by courts and lawmakers. Civil liberties include:
* Freedom of speech
* The right to privacy
* The right to be free from unreasonable searches of your home
* The right to a fair court trial
* The right to marry
* The right to vote
One way to consider the difference between "civil rights" and "civil liberties" is to look at 1) what right is affected, and 2) whose right is affected. For example, as an employee, you do not have the legal right to a promotion, mainly because getting a promotion is not a guaranteed "civil liberty." But, as a female employee you do have the legal right to be free from discrimination in being considered for that promotion -- you cannot legally be denied the promotion based on your gender (or race, or disability, etc.). By choosing not to promote a female worker solely because of the employee's gender, the employer has committed a civil rights violation and has engaged in unlawful employment discrimination based on sex or gender.
Privilege
1.
a right, immunity, or benefit enjoyed only by a person beyond the advantages of most: the privileges of the very rich.
2.
a special right, immunity, or exemption granted to persons in authority or office to free them from certain obligations or liabilities: the privilege of a senator to speak in Congress without danger of a libel suit.
3.
a grant to an individual, corporation, etc., of a special right or immunity, under certain conditions.
4.
the principle or condition of enjoying special rights or immunities.
5.
any of the rights common to all citizens under a modern constitutional government: We enjoy the privileges of a free people.
6.
an advantage or source of pleasure granted to a person: It's my privilege to be here.
activist judges and the judicial process
the judicial process starts with the people
citizens have to initiate the process
judges just don't pick various laws and decide they are not worthy of following
though, in their rulings, they can go beyond the scope of the trial.
Here's an interesting article from Boston concerning the Rational Basis argument.
the same sex marriage argument that justice scalia fears. google it
- that which is due every member... by virtue of just claim, fair principle and legal guarantee. A right can only be lost through due process of law.
Just Claim - A right each individual has to petition the organization on that which is not clear by law (written or practiced); i.e., request chit, formal written request, etc.
Fair Principle - A right each individual has to expect equal treatment by virtue of what others receive (i.e., pay, grade, position, etc.)
Legal Guarantee – That which is written and affirmed by higher authority (i.e., laws, contracts, policies, directives, position, etc.). Legal guarantee must be afforded all personnel under the principle of fairness, if not they have a just claim to petition the system.
18.
a just claim or title, whether legal, prescriptive, or moral
: You have a right to say what you please.
19.
Sometimes, rights. that which is due to anyone by just claim, legal guarantees, moral principles, etc.: women's rights; Freedom of speech is a right of all Americans.
23.
Sometimes, rights. the interest or ownership a person, group, or business has in property: He has a 50-percent right in a silver mine. The author controls the screen rights for the book.
25.
Finance.
a.
the privilege, usually preemptive, that accrues to the owners of the stock of a corporation to subscribe to additional shares of stock or securities convertible into stock at an advantageous price.
b.
Often, rights. the privilege of subscribing to a specified amount of a stock or bond issue, or the document certifying this privilege.
Does due process include a popular vote?
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. That to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed.
rights only for Americans or universal.
Constitutional rights, human rights, universal rights, civil rights.
It is important to note the difference between "civil rights" and "civil liberties." The legal area known as "civil rights" has traditionally revolved around the basic right to be free from unequal treatment based on certain protected characteristics (race, gender, disability, etc.) in settings such as employment and housing. "Civil liberties" concern basic rights and freedoms that are guaranteed -- either explicitly identified in the Bill of Rights and the Constitution, or interpreted through the years by courts and lawmakers. Civil liberties include:
* Freedom of speech
* The right to privacy
* The right to be free from unreasonable searches of your home
* The right to a fair court trial
* The right to marry
* The right to vote
One way to consider the difference between "civil rights" and "civil liberties" is to look at 1) what right is affected, and 2) whose right is affected. For example, as an employee, you do not have the legal right to a promotion, mainly because getting a promotion is not a guaranteed "civil liberty." But, as a female employee you do have the legal right to be free from discrimination in being considered for that promotion -- you cannot legally be denied the promotion based on your gender (or race, or disability, etc.). By choosing not to promote a female worker solely because of the employee's gender, the employer has committed a civil rights violation and has engaged in unlawful employment discrimination based on sex or gender.
Privilege
1.
a right, immunity, or benefit enjoyed only by a person beyond the advantages of most: the privileges of the very rich.
2.
a special right, immunity, or exemption granted to persons in authority or office to free them from certain obligations or liabilities: the privilege of a senator to speak in Congress without danger of a libel suit.
3.
a grant to an individual, corporation, etc., of a special right or immunity, under certain conditions.
4.
the principle or condition of enjoying special rights or immunities.
5.
any of the rights common to all citizens under a modern constitutional government: We enjoy the privileges of a free people.
6.
an advantage or source of pleasure granted to a person: It's my privilege to be here.
activist judges and the judicial process
the judicial process starts with the people
citizens have to initiate the process
judges just don't pick various laws and decide they are not worthy of following
though, in their rulings, they can go beyond the scope of the trial.
Here's an interesting article from Boston concerning the Rational Basis argument.
the same sex marriage argument that justice scalia fears. google it
17 January 2012
Waste
Word of the day
verb
1 [ with obj. ] use or expend carelessly, extravagantly, or to no purpose:
we can't afford to waste electricity | I don't use the car, so why should I waste precious money on it?
• (usu. be wasted on) bestow or expend on an unappreciative recipient:
her small talk was wasted on this guest.
• (usu. be wasted) fail to make full or good use of:
New Oxford American Dictionary
verb
1 [ with obj. ] use or expend carelessly, extravagantly, or to no purpose:
we can't afford to waste electricity | I don't use the car, so why should I waste precious money on it?
• (usu. be wasted on) bestow or expend on an unappreciative recipient:
her small talk was wasted on this guest.
• (usu. be wasted) fail to make full or good use of:
New Oxford American Dictionary
16 January 2012
Hitchens on King
“For years, I declined to fill in the form for my Senate press credential that asked me to state my 'race,' unless I was permitted to put 'human.' The form had to be completed under penalty of perjury, so I could not in conscience put 'white,' which is not even a color let alone a 'race,' and I sternly declined to put 'Caucasian,' which is an exploded term from a discredited ethnology. Surely the essential and unarguable core of King's campaign was the insistence that pigmentation was a false measure: a false measure of mankind (yes, mankind) and an inheritance from a time of great ignorance and stupidity and cruelty, when one drop of blood could make you 'black.”
― Christopher Hitchens
― Christopher Hitchens
Fraud
Word of the day
n
wrongful or criminal deception intended to result in financial or personal gain:
• a person or thing intended to deceive others, typically by unjustifiably claiming or being credited with accomplishments or qualities:
New Oxford American Dictionary
fraud
"criminal deception," early 14c., from O.Fr. fraude "deception, fraud" (13c.), from L. fraudem (nom. fraus) "deceit, injury." The noun meaning "impostor, humbug" is attested from 1850. Pious fraud "deception practiced for the sake of what is deemed a good purpose" is from 1560s.
n
wrongful or criminal deception intended to result in financial or personal gain:
• a person or thing intended to deceive others, typically by unjustifiably claiming or being credited with accomplishments or qualities:
New Oxford American Dictionary
fraud
"criminal deception," early 14c., from O.Fr. fraude "deception, fraud" (13c.), from L. fraudem (nom. fraus) "deceit, injury." The noun meaning "impostor, humbug" is attested from 1850. Pious fraud "deception practiced for the sake of what is deemed a good purpose" is from 1560s.
Consent of the governed
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, — That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed.
15 January 2012
The Purpose of Education
To save man from the morass of propaganda, in my opinion, is one of the chief aims of education. Education must enable one to sift and weigh evidence, to discern the true from the false, the real from the unreal, and the facts from the fiction.
The function of education, therefore, is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. But education which stops with efficiency may prove the greatest menace to society. The most dangerous criminal may be the man gifted with reason, but with no morals.
Intelligence plus character--that is the goal of true education.
Martin Luther King, Jr., The Purpose of Education
The function of education, therefore, is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. But education which stops with efficiency may prove the greatest menace to society. The most dangerous criminal may be the man gifted with reason, but with no morals.
Intelligence plus character--that is the goal of true education.
Martin Luther King, Jr., The Purpose of Education
The Constitution on Rights
Section 8 - Powers of Congress
To promote the Progress of Science and useful Arts, by securing for limited Times to Authors and Inventors the exclusive Right to their respective Writings and Discoveries;
Amendment 1 - Freedom of Religion, Press, Expression. Ratified 12/15/1791
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.
Amendment 2 - Right to Bear Arms. Ratified 12/15/1791
A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.
Amendment 4 - Search and Seizure. Ratified 12/15/1791.
The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized.
Amendment 6 - Right to Speedy Trial, Confrontation of Witnesses. Ratified 12/15/1791.
In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the right to a speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury of the State and district wherein the crime shall have been committed, which district shall have been previously ascertained by law, and to be informed of the nature and cause of the accusation; to be confronted with the witnesses against him; to have compulsory process for obtaining witnesses in his favor, and to have the Assistance of Counsel for his defence.
Amendment 7 - Trial by Jury in Civil Cases. Ratified 12/15/1791.
In Suits at common law, where the value in controversy shall exceed twenty dollars, the right of trial by jury shall be preserved, and no fact tried by a jury, shall be otherwise re-examined in any Court of the United States, than according to the rules of the common law.
Amendment 9 - Construction of Constitution. Ratified 12/15/1791.
The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people.
Amendment 14 - Citizenship Rights. Ratified 7/9/1868.
1. All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside. No State shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States; nor shall any State deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.
2. Representatives shall be apportioned among the several States according to their respective numbers, counting the whole number of persons in each State, excluding Indians not taxed. But when the right to vote at any election for the choice of electors for President and Vice-President of the United States, Representatives in Congress, the Executive and Judicial officers of a State, or the members of the Legislature thereof, is denied to any of the male inhabitants of such State, being twenty-one years of age, and citizens of the United States, or in any way abridged, except for participation in rebellion, or other crime, the basis of representation therein shall be reduced in the proportion which the number of such male citizens shall bear to the whole number of male citizens twenty-one years of age in such State.
3. No person shall be a Senator or Representative in Congress, or elector of President and Vice-President, or hold any office, civil or military, under the United States, or under any State, who, having previously taken an oath, as a member of Congress, or as an officer of the United States, or as a member of any State legislature, or as an executive or judicial officer of any State, to support the Constitution of the United States, shall have engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the same, or given aid or comfort to the enemies thereof. But Congress may by a vote of two-thirds of each House, remove such disability.
4. The validity of the public debt of the United States, authorized by law, including debts incurred for payment of pensions and bounties for services in suppressing insurrection or rebellion, shall not be questioned. But neither the United States nor any State shall assume or pay any debt or obligation incurred in aid of insurrection or rebellion against the United States, or any claim for the loss or emancipation of any slave; but all such debts, obligations and claims shall be held illegal and void.
5. The Congress shall have power to enforce, by appropriate legislation, the provisions of this article.
Amendment 15 - Race No Bar to Vote. Ratified 2/3/1870.
1. The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of race, color, or previous condition of servitude.
2. The Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation.
Amendment 19 - Women's Suffrage. Ratified 8/18/1920.
The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex.
Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation.
Amendment 24 - Poll Tax Barred. Ratified 1/23/1964.
1. The right of citizens of the United States to vote in any primary or other election for President or Vice President, for electors for President or Vice President, or for Senator or Representative in Congress, shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or any State by reason of failure to pay any poll tax or other tax.
2. The Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation.
Amendment 26 - Voting Age Set to 18 Years. Ratified 7/1/1971.
1. The right of citizens of the United States, who are eighteen years of age or older, to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of age.
2. The Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation.
To promote the Progress of Science and useful Arts, by securing for limited Times to Authors and Inventors the exclusive Right to their respective Writings and Discoveries;
Amendment 1 - Freedom of Religion, Press, Expression. Ratified 12/15/1791
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.
Amendment 2 - Right to Bear Arms. Ratified 12/15/1791
A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.
Amendment 4 - Search and Seizure. Ratified 12/15/1791.
The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized.
Amendment 6 - Right to Speedy Trial, Confrontation of Witnesses. Ratified 12/15/1791.
In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the right to a speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury of the State and district wherein the crime shall have been committed, which district shall have been previously ascertained by law, and to be informed of the nature and cause of the accusation; to be confronted with the witnesses against him; to have compulsory process for obtaining witnesses in his favor, and to have the Assistance of Counsel for his defence.
Amendment 7 - Trial by Jury in Civil Cases. Ratified 12/15/1791.
In Suits at common law, where the value in controversy shall exceed twenty dollars, the right of trial by jury shall be preserved, and no fact tried by a jury, shall be otherwise re-examined in any Court of the United States, than according to the rules of the common law.
Amendment 9 - Construction of Constitution. Ratified 12/15/1791.
The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people.
Amendment 14 - Citizenship Rights. Ratified 7/9/1868.
1. All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside. No State shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States; nor shall any State deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.
2. Representatives shall be apportioned among the several States according to their respective numbers, counting the whole number of persons in each State, excluding Indians not taxed. But when the right to vote at any election for the choice of electors for President and Vice-President of the United States, Representatives in Congress, the Executive and Judicial officers of a State, or the members of the Legislature thereof, is denied to any of the male inhabitants of such State, being twenty-one years of age, and citizens of the United States, or in any way abridged, except for participation in rebellion, or other crime, the basis of representation therein shall be reduced in the proportion which the number of such male citizens shall bear to the whole number of male citizens twenty-one years of age in such State.
3. No person shall be a Senator or Representative in Congress, or elector of President and Vice-President, or hold any office, civil or military, under the United States, or under any State, who, having previously taken an oath, as a member of Congress, or as an officer of the United States, or as a member of any State legislature, or as an executive or judicial officer of any State, to support the Constitution of the United States, shall have engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the same, or given aid or comfort to the enemies thereof. But Congress may by a vote of two-thirds of each House, remove such disability.
4. The validity of the public debt of the United States, authorized by law, including debts incurred for payment of pensions and bounties for services in suppressing insurrection or rebellion, shall not be questioned. But neither the United States nor any State shall assume or pay any debt or obligation incurred in aid of insurrection or rebellion against the United States, or any claim for the loss or emancipation of any slave; but all such debts, obligations and claims shall be held illegal and void.
5. The Congress shall have power to enforce, by appropriate legislation, the provisions of this article.
Amendment 15 - Race No Bar to Vote. Ratified 2/3/1870.
1. The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of race, color, or previous condition of servitude.
2. The Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation.
Amendment 19 - Women's Suffrage. Ratified 8/18/1920.
The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex.
Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation.
Amendment 24 - Poll Tax Barred. Ratified 1/23/1964.
1. The right of citizens of the United States to vote in any primary or other election for President or Vice President, for electors for President or Vice President, or for Senator or Representative in Congress, shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or any State by reason of failure to pay any poll tax or other tax.
2. The Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation.
Amendment 26 - Voting Age Set to 18 Years. Ratified 7/1/1971.
1. The right of citizens of the United States, who are eighteen years of age or older, to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of age.
2. The Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation.
Human trafficking
word of the day
n
Trafficking in Persons
“Trafficking in persons” shall mean the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harbouring or receipt of persons, by means of the threat or use of force or other forms of coercion, of abduction, of fraud, of deception, of the abuse of power or of a position of vulnerability or of the giving or receiving of payments or benefits to achieve the consent of a person having control over another person, for the purpose of exploitation.
Exploitation shall include, at a minimum, the exploitation of the prostitution of others or other forms of sexual exploitation, forced labour or services, slavery or practices similar to slavery, servitude or the removal of organs...
The definition of trafficking continues to be the subject of debate, and there is no conclusive or even commonly agreed upon definition globally, regionally or even nationally. This in itself is indicative of the degree of ideological contention which marks the discourse on trafficking and related issues. Absence of consensus on the definition has crucial implications on strategic planning and programme development since some of the definitions which inform concrete practice may be contradictory to each other. However, there are some basic elements of trafficking that are widely agreed upon, such as violence, deception, coercion, deprivations of freedom of movement, abuse of authority, debt bondage, forced labour and slavery-like practices, and other forms of exploitation or use of force.
UN
save the children
fbi
human trafficking
not for sale
n
Trafficking in Persons
“Trafficking in persons” shall mean the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harbouring or receipt of persons, by means of the threat or use of force or other forms of coercion, of abduction, of fraud, of deception, of the abuse of power or of a position of vulnerability or of the giving or receiving of payments or benefits to achieve the consent of a person having control over another person, for the purpose of exploitation.
Exploitation shall include, at a minimum, the exploitation of the prostitution of others or other forms of sexual exploitation, forced labour or services, slavery or practices similar to slavery, servitude or the removal of organs...
The definition of trafficking continues to be the subject of debate, and there is no conclusive or even commonly agreed upon definition globally, regionally or even nationally. This in itself is indicative of the degree of ideological contention which marks the discourse on trafficking and related issues. Absence of consensus on the definition has crucial implications on strategic planning and programme development since some of the definitions which inform concrete practice may be contradictory to each other. However, there are some basic elements of trafficking that are widely agreed upon, such as violence, deception, coercion, deprivations of freedom of movement, abuse of authority, debt bondage, forced labour and slavery-like practices, and other forms of exploitation or use of force.
UN
save the children
fbi
human trafficking
not for sale
14 January 2012
Even Jesus lost his shit with the money changers
John 2
13 When it was almost time for the Jewish Passover, Jesus went up to Jerusalem.
14 In the temple courts he found people selling cattle, sheep and doves, and others sitting at tables exchanging money.
15 So he made a whip out of cords, and drove all from the temple courts, both sheep and cattle; he scattered the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables.
16 To those who sold doves he said, “Get these out of here! Stop turning my Father’s house into a market!”
17 His disciples remembered that it is written: “Zeal for your house will consume me.”
13 When it was almost time for the Jewish Passover, Jesus went up to Jerusalem.
14 In the temple courts he found people selling cattle, sheep and doves, and others sitting at tables exchanging money.
15 So he made a whip out of cords, and drove all from the temple courts, both sheep and cattle; he scattered the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables.
16 To those who sold doves he said, “Get these out of here! Stop turning my Father’s house into a market!”
17 His disciples remembered that it is written: “Zeal for your house will consume me.”
Heretic
Word of the day
n
1
a professed believer who maintains religious opinions contrary to those accepted by his or her church or rejects doctrines prescribed by that church.
2.
Roman Catholic Church . a baptized Roman Catholic who willfully and persistently rejects any article of faith.
3.
anyone who does not conform to an established attitude, doctrine, or principle.
I have a different idea of who Christ was in relation to us
A brother
One who was willing to do what we are all called to do
New Oxford American Dictionary
Dictionary.com
heresy
"an opinion of private men different from that of the catholick and orthodox church" [Johnson], c.1200, from O.Fr. heresie (12c.), from L. hæresis, "school of thought, philosophical sect," used by Christian writers for "unorthodox sect or doctrine," from Gk. hairesis "a taking or choosing, a choice," from haireisthai "take, seize," middle voice of hairein "to choose," of unknown origin, perhaps from PIE *ser- "to seize" (cf. Hittite šaru "booty," Welsh herw "booty").
The Greek word was used in N.T. in reference to the Sadducees, Pharisees, and even the Christians, as sects of Judaism, but in English bibles it usually is translated sect. Meaning "religious belief opposed to the orthodox doctrines of the Church" evolved in Late Latin in the Dark Ages. Transferred (non-religious) use from late 14c.
I admit I'm a heretic and I don't put as much emphasis on Jesus' death as I do his life. I think that narrow focus misses a big point. I think his purpose was to answer Cain's question (that God didn't answer at the time). Christian's love to highlight the idea that he died for our sins; but don't put enough light on him asking us to be just like him.
Just like in the bible, people tend to be like Cain, killing their brother for gain. Then someone comes along like Jesus, dying for their brothers.
n
1
a professed believer who maintains religious opinions contrary to those accepted by his or her church or rejects doctrines prescribed by that church.
2.
Roman Catholic Church . a baptized Roman Catholic who willfully and persistently rejects any article of faith.
3.
anyone who does not conform to an established attitude, doctrine, or principle.
I have a different idea of who Christ was in relation to us
A brother
One who was willing to do what we are all called to do
New Oxford American Dictionary
Dictionary.com
heresy
"an opinion of private men different from that of the catholick and orthodox church" [Johnson], c.1200, from O.Fr. heresie (12c.), from L. hæresis, "school of thought, philosophical sect," used by Christian writers for "unorthodox sect or doctrine," from Gk. hairesis "a taking or choosing, a choice," from haireisthai "take, seize," middle voice of hairein "to choose," of unknown origin, perhaps from PIE *ser- "to seize" (cf. Hittite šaru "booty," Welsh herw "booty").
The Greek word was used in N.T. in reference to the Sadducees, Pharisees, and even the Christians, as sects of Judaism, but in English bibles it usually is translated sect. Meaning "religious belief opposed to the orthodox doctrines of the Church" evolved in Late Latin in the Dark Ages. Transferred (non-religious) use from late 14c.
I admit I'm a heretic and I don't put as much emphasis on Jesus' death as I do his life. I think that narrow focus misses a big point. I think his purpose was to answer Cain's question (that God didn't answer at the time). Christian's love to highlight the idea that he died for our sins; but don't put enough light on him asking us to be just like him.
Just like in the bible, people tend to be like Cain, killing their brother for gain. Then someone comes along like Jesus, dying for their brothers.
The Constitution on Privileges
Section 6 - Compensation
(The Senators and Representatives shall receive a Compensation for their Services, to be ascertained by Law, and paid out of the Treasury of the United States.) (The preceding words in parentheses were modified by the 27th Amendment.) They shall in all Cases, except Treason, Felony and Breach of the Peace, be privileged from Arrest during their Attendance at the Session of their respective Houses, and in going to and returning from the same; and for any Speech or Debate in either House, they shall not be questioned in any other Place.
Section 9 - Limits on Congress
The privilege of the Writ of Habeas Corpus shall not be suspended, unless when in Cases of Rebellion or Invasion the public Safety may require it.
Section 2 - State citizens, Extradition
The Citizens of each State shall be entitled to all Privileges and Immunities of Citizens in the several States.
Amendment 14 - Citizenship Rights. Ratified 7/9/1868.
1. All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside. No State shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States; nor shall any State deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.
(The Senators and Representatives shall receive a Compensation for their Services, to be ascertained by Law, and paid out of the Treasury of the United States.) (The preceding words in parentheses were modified by the 27th Amendment.) They shall in all Cases, except Treason, Felony and Breach of the Peace, be privileged from Arrest during their Attendance at the Session of their respective Houses, and in going to and returning from the same; and for any Speech or Debate in either House, they shall not be questioned in any other Place.
Section 9 - Limits on Congress
The privilege of the Writ of Habeas Corpus shall not be suspended, unless when in Cases of Rebellion or Invasion the public Safety may require it.
Section 2 - State citizens, Extradition
The Citizens of each State shall be entitled to all Privileges and Immunities of Citizens in the several States.
Amendment 14 - Citizenship Rights. Ratified 7/9/1868.
1. All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside. No State shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States; nor shall any State deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.
13 January 2012
Emperor's Ideal Society
One where a person could engage in any activity they want that does not injure others
All interactions must be consensual and
Free of fraud or coercion
The interactions must be fully transparent
Every contract (any agreement, spoken or written) has an inherent
transparency clause
If one party withholds any information pertaining to that agreement
The contract is violated
If one infringes on anyone's life, liberty, or property
They must atone
All interactions must be consensual and
Free of fraud or coercion
The interactions must be fully transparent
Every contract (any agreement, spoken or written) has an inherent
transparency clause
If one party withholds any information pertaining to that agreement
The contract is violated
If one infringes on anyone's life, liberty, or property
They must atone
Ornery
word of the day
adjective informal
bad-tempered and combative:
• stubborn:
Hereditary
New Oxford American Dictionary
adjective informal
bad-tempered and combative:
• stubborn:
Hereditary
New Oxford American Dictionary
12 January 2012
Deep Thought
"People say that what we're all seeking is a meaning for life. I don't think that's what we're really seeking. I think that what we're seeking is an experience of being alive, so that our life experiences on the purely physical plane will have resonances within our own innermost being and reality, so that we actually feel the rapture of being alive. That's what it's all finally about, and that's what these clues help us to find within ourselves
"…Experience of life. The mind has to do with meaning. What's the meaning of a flower? … There's no meaning. What's the meaning of the universe? What's the meaning of a flea? It's just there. That's it. And your own meaning is that you're there. We're so engaged in doing things to achieve purposes of outer value that we forget that the inner value, the rapture associated with being alive, is what it's all about."
Joseph Campbell, The Power of Myth, with Bill Moyers, p. 4, 5
"…Experience of life. The mind has to do with meaning. What's the meaning of a flower? … There's no meaning. What's the meaning of the universe? What's the meaning of a flea? It's just there. That's it. And your own meaning is that you're there. We're so engaged in doing things to achieve purposes of outer value that we forget that the inner value, the rapture associated with being alive, is what it's all about."
Joseph Campbell, The Power of Myth, with Bill Moyers, p. 4, 5
Deep Horoscope
Comedian Steven Wright says his nephew has HDADD, or High Definition Attention Deficit Disorder. "He can barely pay attention, but when he does it's unbelievably clear." I'm predicting something like that for you in the coming week, Gemini. You will encounter more things that are dull than are interesting, but those few that fascinate you will awaken an intense focus that allows you to see into the heart of reality.
What new influences will be headed your way in 2012? What fresh resources will you be able to draw on? How can you make best use of these influences and resources?
What new influences will be headed your way in 2012? What fresh resources will you be able to draw on? How can you make best use of these influences and resources?
Economics
Word of the day
n
the branch of knowledge concerned with the production, consumption, and transfer of wealth.
New Oxford American Dictionary
n
the branch of knowledge concerned with the production, consumption, and transfer of wealth.
New Oxford American Dictionary
How to eradicate poverty
short answer
prevent fraud, waste, and abuse.
Ensure every citizen has a job with a living wage.
Ensure every citizen has lifetime access to:
Healthy foods,
Safe, affordable housing and utilities,
Affordable healthcare.
Affordable transportation,
Affordable childcare.
Ensure every citizen has access to:
Health education that promotes healthy eating, exercise,
how to prevent unwanted pregnancies,
prevention of disease and infection.
Financial education that includes budgeting, saving, investing,
how to live debt free.
If not debt free, then how to get and maintain good credit.
Primary Education that focuses on reading, writing, arithmetics, and research techniques.
Teach Critical thinking skills needed to recognize factual information and use it to make informed decisions. Show children how to gather information from their community (including internet).
Teach people how to effectively present and debate factual information.
Have employers take responsibility for Vocational education that will give workers the tools/leverage needed to negotiate for the wages they want.
More on the job training and apprenticeship programs.
More business funded certification/licensing programs.
More industries/businesses providing guidance to colleges/universities on what courses to take to be successful in the job market.
Most of all, education that focuses on individuals. Looks at a person's situation and goals and tailors learning to them.
This means getting rid of standardized tests
and getting away from classrooms
Businesses who made record profits, outsourced or automated jobs,
gave their executives million dollar severances,
gave their CEOs salaries that are over 200 times that of the average worker,
Got government subsidies,
Didn't pay income taxes,
Laid off workers,
Cut wages and benefits,
Need to be ashamed of themselves.
They need to be held accountable for their part in our poverty rates.
If they don't do more to help america, we need to boycott them.
We need to promote local businesses that are actively involved in improving the lives of the people in their communities. Especially financial institutions.
Every citizen needs to get involved in their community.
Go to city council meetings.
Volunteer for charities and non-profits. Exercise rights guaranteed in the first amendment daily.
If you aren't going to be represented by your elected officials, represent yourself.
Hold businesses accountable every day.
And they need to release all non-violent drug Offenders and end this ridiculous war on drugs.
Replace our collective sense of self worth that consumerism stole from us. Businesses can't convince us to buy their crap if we know we are capable of producing things, accomplishing tasks by ourselves. We also need to know that we are beautiful without their product.
Ensure that the people have the resources and skills and network to provide for themselves and their communities
Create Self sufficient communities
prevent fraud, waste, and abuse.
Ensure every citizen has a job with a living wage.
Ensure every citizen has lifetime access to:
Healthy foods,
Safe, affordable housing and utilities,
Affordable healthcare.
Affordable transportation,
Affordable childcare.
Ensure every citizen has access to:
Health education that promotes healthy eating, exercise,
how to prevent unwanted pregnancies,
prevention of disease and infection.
Financial education that includes budgeting, saving, investing,
how to live debt free.
If not debt free, then how to get and maintain good credit.
Primary Education that focuses on reading, writing, arithmetics, and research techniques.
Teach Critical thinking skills needed to recognize factual information and use it to make informed decisions. Show children how to gather information from their community (including internet).
Teach people how to effectively present and debate factual information.
Have employers take responsibility for Vocational education that will give workers the tools/leverage needed to negotiate for the wages they want.
More on the job training and apprenticeship programs.
More business funded certification/licensing programs.
More industries/businesses providing guidance to colleges/universities on what courses to take to be successful in the job market.
Most of all, education that focuses on individuals. Looks at a person's situation and goals and tailors learning to them.
This means getting rid of standardized tests
and getting away from classrooms
Businesses who made record profits, outsourced or automated jobs,
gave their executives million dollar severances,
gave their CEOs salaries that are over 200 times that of the average worker,
Got government subsidies,
Didn't pay income taxes,
Laid off workers,
Cut wages and benefits,
Need to be ashamed of themselves.
They need to be held accountable for their part in our poverty rates.
If they don't do more to help america, we need to boycott them.
We need to promote local businesses that are actively involved in improving the lives of the people in their communities. Especially financial institutions.
Every citizen needs to get involved in their community.
Go to city council meetings.
Volunteer for charities and non-profits. Exercise rights guaranteed in the first amendment daily.
If you aren't going to be represented by your elected officials, represent yourself.
Hold businesses accountable every day.
And they need to release all non-violent drug Offenders and end this ridiculous war on drugs.
Replace our collective sense of self worth that consumerism stole from us. Businesses can't convince us to buy their crap if we know we are capable of producing things, accomplishing tasks by ourselves. We also need to know that we are beautiful without their product.
Ensure that the people have the resources and skills and network to provide for themselves and their communities
Create Self sufficient communities
11 January 2012
SYMPATHETIC JOY
word of the day
n
mudita
The definition is: being happy with someone's fortune/happiness. Sympathetic joy here refers to the potential of bliss and happiness of all sentient beings, as they can all become Buddhas.
The near enemy is hypocrisy or affectation.
The opposite is jealousy, when one cannot accept the happiness of others.
A result which one needs to avoid is: spaced-out bliss, which can easily turn into laziness.
Note: sympathetic joy is a great antidote to depression for oneself as well, but this should not be the main goal.
By rejoicing in others' progress on the spiritual path, one can actually share in their positive karma.
Sympathetic joy is an unselfish, very positive mental attitude which is beneficial for oneself and others. In this case, it also refers specifically to rejoicing in the high rebirth and enlightenment of others.
view on buddhism
The third immeasurable is appreciative joy. It is the wholesome attitude of rejoicing in the happiness and virtues of all sentient beings. It counters jealousy and makes people less self-centred.
People in their daily lives may experience appreciative joy. It is like a mother's joy at her son's success and happiness in life. In the same way, almost everyone will have at one time or another experienced the feeling of joy at the good fortune of a friend. These are the commonly experienced forms of appreciative joy. When one meditates on appreciative joy and extends it to all sentient beings and not just to loved ones only, one then experiences appreciative joy as a sublime state of mind and as an immeasurable.
buddhanet
bodhicitta
buddhanet
n
mudita
The definition is: being happy with someone's fortune/happiness. Sympathetic joy here refers to the potential of bliss and happiness of all sentient beings, as they can all become Buddhas.
The near enemy is hypocrisy or affectation.
The opposite is jealousy, when one cannot accept the happiness of others.
A result which one needs to avoid is: spaced-out bliss, which can easily turn into laziness.
Note: sympathetic joy is a great antidote to depression for oneself as well, but this should not be the main goal.
By rejoicing in others' progress on the spiritual path, one can actually share in their positive karma.
Sympathetic joy is an unselfish, very positive mental attitude which is beneficial for oneself and others. In this case, it also refers specifically to rejoicing in the high rebirth and enlightenment of others.
view on buddhism
The third immeasurable is appreciative joy. It is the wholesome attitude of rejoicing in the happiness and virtues of all sentient beings. It counters jealousy and makes people less self-centred.
People in their daily lives may experience appreciative joy. It is like a mother's joy at her son's success and happiness in life. In the same way, almost everyone will have at one time or another experienced the feeling of joy at the good fortune of a friend. These are the commonly experienced forms of appreciative joy. When one meditates on appreciative joy and extends it to all sentient beings and not just to loved ones only, one then experiences appreciative joy as a sublime state of mind and as an immeasurable.
buddhanet
bodhicitta
buddhanet
Potential
Marianne Williamson
According to A Course in Miracles, those who have achieved the most in the world have achieved a fraction of what each of us is capable of.
Exercise: Just allow yourself to take that in...to breathe it into your deepest places... Then say to the universe that you are willing to actualize the fullness of who you are...that you know you haven't done so already...that you atone for your own self-sabotaging and self-limiting beliefs...and that now, at this time in this year, you pray for God's help in removing all internal as well as external obstacles to your actualizing your full potential as a child of God. There is nothing to figure out; only miracles to receive. Remain in silence, with your eyes closed while you do this. And the miracles will begin.
According to A Course in Miracles, those who have achieved the most in the world have achieved a fraction of what each of us is capable of.
Exercise: Just allow yourself to take that in...to breathe it into your deepest places... Then say to the universe that you are willing to actualize the fullness of who you are...that you know you haven't done so already...that you atone for your own self-sabotaging and self-limiting beliefs...and that now, at this time in this year, you pray for God's help in removing all internal as well as external obstacles to your actualizing your full potential as a child of God. There is nothing to figure out; only miracles to receive. Remain in silence, with your eyes closed while you do this. And the miracles will begin.
10 January 2012
LOVING-KINDNESS
word of the day
n
Metta
The definition of love in Buddhism is: wanting others to be happy.
This love is unconditional and it requires a lot of courage and acceptance (including self-acceptance).
The "near enemy" of love, or a quality which appears similar, but is more an opposite is: conditional love (selfish love, see also the page on attachment).
The opposite is wanting others to be unhappy: anger, hatred.
A result which one needs to avoid is: attachment.
This definition means that 'love' in Buddhism refers to something quite different from the ordinary term of love which is usually about attachment, more or less successful relationships and sex; all of which are rarely without self-interest. Instead, in Buddhism it refers to de-tachment and the unselfish interest in others' welfare.
'Even offering three hundred bowls of food three times a day does not match the spiritual merit gained in one moment of love.'
Nagarjuna
"If there is love, there is hope that one may have real families, real brotherhood, real equanimity, real peace. If the love within your mind is lost and you see other beings as enemies, then no matter how much knowledge or education or material comfort you have, only suffering and confusion will ensue"
His Holiness the Dalai Lama from 'The little book of Buddhism'
view on buddhism
Loving-kindness, the first immeasurable, is the wish that all sentient beings, without any exception, be happy. Loving-kindness counters ill will. The attitude of loving-kindness is like the feeling which a mother has for her newborn son. She wishes that he may enjoy good health, have good friends, be intelligent and successful in all that he attempts. In short, she wishes sincerely that he be happy. One may have the same attitude of loving-kindness for a particular friend or for others in one's class, community or nation. In all these cases, one wishes that the person or persons concerned enjoy happiness.
The extent of loving-kindness in the instances mentioned above is limited to those for whom one has some attachment or concern. The meditation on loving-kindness, however, requires one to extend loving-kindness not only towards those whom one feels close to, but also to others whom one may know only slightly or not know at all. Finally, one's loving-kindness is extended to all sentient beings in all the realms of existence. Then only does the ordinary wholesome attitude of loving-kindness found in daily life reach the state of the sublime or the immeasurable.
buddhanet
bodhicitta
insight meditation center
inner frontier
n
Metta
The definition of love in Buddhism is: wanting others to be happy.
This love is unconditional and it requires a lot of courage and acceptance (including self-acceptance).
The "near enemy" of love, or a quality which appears similar, but is more an opposite is: conditional love (selfish love, see also the page on attachment).
The opposite is wanting others to be unhappy: anger, hatred.
A result which one needs to avoid is: attachment.
This definition means that 'love' in Buddhism refers to something quite different from the ordinary term of love which is usually about attachment, more or less successful relationships and sex; all of which are rarely without self-interest. Instead, in Buddhism it refers to de-tachment and the unselfish interest in others' welfare.
'Even offering three hundred bowls of food three times a day does not match the spiritual merit gained in one moment of love.'
Nagarjuna
"If there is love, there is hope that one may have real families, real brotherhood, real equanimity, real peace. If the love within your mind is lost and you see other beings as enemies, then no matter how much knowledge or education or material comfort you have, only suffering and confusion will ensue"
His Holiness the Dalai Lama from 'The little book of Buddhism'
view on buddhism
Loving-kindness, the first immeasurable, is the wish that all sentient beings, without any exception, be happy. Loving-kindness counters ill will. The attitude of loving-kindness is like the feeling which a mother has for her newborn son. She wishes that he may enjoy good health, have good friends, be intelligent and successful in all that he attempts. In short, she wishes sincerely that he be happy. One may have the same attitude of loving-kindness for a particular friend or for others in one's class, community or nation. In all these cases, one wishes that the person or persons concerned enjoy happiness.
The extent of loving-kindness in the instances mentioned above is limited to those for whom one has some attachment or concern. The meditation on loving-kindness, however, requires one to extend loving-kindness not only towards those whom one feels close to, but also to others whom one may know only slightly or not know at all. Finally, one's loving-kindness is extended to all sentient beings in all the realms of existence. Then only does the ordinary wholesome attitude of loving-kindness found in daily life reach the state of the sublime or the immeasurable.
buddhanet
bodhicitta
insight meditation center
inner frontier
Separation of Economics and State
Humanly impossible
When has economics ever been separate from the laws that govern the people?
In America, The people who produce, buy, and work are the same people who vote and participate in law making.
The world can work in one of two ways.
Economic forces control law making
Law makers control economic forces
This is the true difference between private ownership and public ownership
capitalism and socialism.
Any separation is a fantasy
There can never be a true free market because those who have economic powers implant themselves or their representatives in all levels of law making.
A free market is impossible in America because economics and law are intertwined in our constitution
You cannot have a free market when Congress has control over the foundations of the economy
Section 8 - Powers of Congress
The Congress shall have Power To lay and collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Excises, to pay the Debts and provide for the common Defence and general Welfare of the United States; but all Duties, Imposts and Excises shall be uniform throughout the United States;
To borrow money on the credit of the United States;
To regulate Commerce with foreign Nations, and among the several States, and with the Indian Tribes;
To establish an uniform Rule of Naturalization, and uniform Laws on the subject of Bankruptcies throughout the United States;
To coin Money, regulate the Value thereof, and of foreign Coin, and fix the Standard of Weights and Measures;
To provide for the Punishment of counterfeiting the Securities and current Coin of the United States;
To establish Post Offices and Post Roads;
To promote the Progress of Science and useful Arts, by securing for limited Times to Authors and Inventors the exclusive Right to their respective Writings and Discoveries;
Section 9 - Limits on Congress
No Tax or Duty shall be laid on Articles exported from any State.
No Preference shall be given by any Regulation of Commerce or Revenue to the Ports of one State over those of another: nor shall Vessels bound to, or from, one State, be obliged to enter, clear, or pay Duties in another.
No Money shall be drawn from the Treasury, but in Consequence of Appropriations made by Law; and a regular Statement and Account of the Receipts and Expenditures of all public Money shall be published from time to time.
Section 10 - Powers prohibited of States
No State shall enter into any Treaty, Alliance, or Confederation; grant Letters of Marque and Reprisal; coin Money; emit Bills of Credit; make any Thing but gold and silver Coin a Tender in Payment of Debts; pass any Bill of Attainder, ex post facto Law, or Law impairing the Obligation of Contracts, or grant any Title of Nobility.
Amendment 16 - Status of Income Tax Clarified.
The Congress shall have power to lay and collect taxes on incomes, from whatever source derived, without apportionment among the several States, and without regard to any census or enumeration.
This is like the separation of church and state
"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion"
But the people who vote and make laws can not help but make decisions based on their religious beliefs.
Consciously and subconsciously
The choice is to allowed people to participate in whatever systems they want or
to create a system where everyone has a voice in law making and economics
When has economics ever been separate from the laws that govern the people?
In America, The people who produce, buy, and work are the same people who vote and participate in law making.
The world can work in one of two ways.
Economic forces control law making
Law makers control economic forces
This is the true difference between private ownership and public ownership
capitalism and socialism.
Any separation is a fantasy
There can never be a true free market because those who have economic powers implant themselves or their representatives in all levels of law making.
A free market is impossible in America because economics and law are intertwined in our constitution
You cannot have a free market when Congress has control over the foundations of the economy
Section 8 - Powers of Congress
The Congress shall have Power To lay and collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Excises, to pay the Debts and provide for the common Defence and general Welfare of the United States; but all Duties, Imposts and Excises shall be uniform throughout the United States;
To borrow money on the credit of the United States;
To regulate Commerce with foreign Nations, and among the several States, and with the Indian Tribes;
To establish an uniform Rule of Naturalization, and uniform Laws on the subject of Bankruptcies throughout the United States;
To coin Money, regulate the Value thereof, and of foreign Coin, and fix the Standard of Weights and Measures;
To provide for the Punishment of counterfeiting the Securities and current Coin of the United States;
To establish Post Offices and Post Roads;
To promote the Progress of Science and useful Arts, by securing for limited Times to Authors and Inventors the exclusive Right to their respective Writings and Discoveries;
Section 9 - Limits on Congress
No Tax or Duty shall be laid on Articles exported from any State.
No Preference shall be given by any Regulation of Commerce or Revenue to the Ports of one State over those of another: nor shall Vessels bound to, or from, one State, be obliged to enter, clear, or pay Duties in another.
No Money shall be drawn from the Treasury, but in Consequence of Appropriations made by Law; and a regular Statement and Account of the Receipts and Expenditures of all public Money shall be published from time to time.
Section 10 - Powers prohibited of States
No State shall enter into any Treaty, Alliance, or Confederation; grant Letters of Marque and Reprisal; coin Money; emit Bills of Credit; make any Thing but gold and silver Coin a Tender in Payment of Debts; pass any Bill of Attainder, ex post facto Law, or Law impairing the Obligation of Contracts, or grant any Title of Nobility.
Amendment 16 - Status of Income Tax Clarified.
The Congress shall have power to lay and collect taxes on incomes, from whatever source derived, without apportionment among the several States, and without regard to any census or enumeration.
This is like the separation of church and state
"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion"
But the people who vote and make laws can not help but make decisions based on their religious beliefs.
Consciously and subconsciously
The choice is to allowed people to participate in whatever systems they want or
to create a system where everyone has a voice in law making and economics
09 January 2012
Deep Thought
If it was perfect, it wouldn't be beautiful
"Perfection is inhuman. Human beings are not perfect. What evokes our love - and I mean love, not lust - is the imperfection of the human being. So, when the imperfection of the real human peeks through, say, 'This is a challenge to my compassion.' Then make a try, and something might begin to get going."
- Joseph Campbell, Pathways to Bliss
"Perfection is inhuman. Human beings are not perfect. What evokes our love - and I mean love, not lust - is the imperfection of the human being. So, when the imperfection of the real human peeks through, say, 'This is a challenge to my compassion.' Then make a try, and something might begin to get going."
- Joseph Campbell, Pathways to Bliss
07 January 2012
Corruption
Word of the day
noun
1 dishonest or fraudulent conduct by those in power, typically involving bribery:
• the action of making someone or something morally depraved or the state of being so:
New Oxford American Dictionary
noun
1 dishonest or fraudulent conduct by those in power, typically involving bribery:
• the action of making someone or something morally depraved or the state of being so:
New Oxford American Dictionary
class warfare
I think the deeper issue is an erosion of compassion. A lack of unity.
Some people don't seem to know or care how their actions affect others.
This isn't a new thing. It's just new to middle class America. Poor people have been aware of and dealing with these issues since before America was founded.
I don't have a problem with people being highly successful.
I have a problem with people not paying it forward. I have a problem with people gaining success by making others suffer.
If you're a billionaire and you contribute to society, try to honestly help others have a better life, I support you.
Some people don't seem to know or care how their actions affect others.
This isn't a new thing. It's just new to middle class America. Poor people have been aware of and dealing with these issues since before America was founded.
I don't have a problem with people being highly successful.
I have a problem with people not paying it forward. I have a problem with people gaining success by making others suffer.
If you're a billionaire and you contribute to society, try to honestly help others have a better life, I support you.
06 January 2012
Oppression
Word of the day
noun
prolonged cruel or unjust treatment or control:
a region shattered by oppression and killing.
• the state of being subject to such treatment or control.
• mental pressure or distress: her mood had initially been alarm and a sense of oppression.
New Oxford American Dictionary
mid-14c., "cruel or unjust use of power or authority," from Fr. oppression (12c.), from L. oppressionem (nom. oppressio), noun of action from pp. stem of opprimere (see oppress). Meaning "action of weighing on someone's mind or spirits" is from late 14c.
noun
prolonged cruel or unjust treatment or control:
a region shattered by oppression and killing.
• the state of being subject to such treatment or control.
• mental pressure or distress: her mood had initially been alarm and a sense of oppression.
New Oxford American Dictionary
mid-14c., "cruel or unjust use of power or authority," from Fr. oppression (12c.), from L. oppressionem (nom. oppressio), noun of action from pp. stem of opprimere (see oppress). Meaning "action of weighing on someone's mind or spirits" is from late 14c.
05 January 2012
Responsible budget cuts
I agree that the debt is out of control.
I agree that there are wasteful, fraudulent, and abused government programs that need to be scrutinized.
I agree that the government is inefficient
I have no problem with budget cuts
My problem is with irresponsible cuts
If you preach a philosophy that the private sector can provide better services for the people than the government can,
shouldn't you make sure those private services are truly in place and viable before you cut a government program?
Isn't it your responsibility to advertise these private services to the people as a better alternative so they don't feel like the rug has been snatched?
Responsible budget cuts are not contracting
It is not government paying a contractor to do work
That leads to fraud waste and abuse
It is not just cutting funding
or completely cutting a program
It's not assuming that charities churches and non profits will take up the slack
It's calling out to private groups
Determining if they can support all clients and services
And ensuring that they can provide better services
Long term business plan
I agree that there are wasteful, fraudulent, and abused government programs that need to be scrutinized.
I agree that the government is inefficient
I have no problem with budget cuts
My problem is with irresponsible cuts
If you preach a philosophy that the private sector can provide better services for the people than the government can,
shouldn't you make sure those private services are truly in place and viable before you cut a government program?
Isn't it your responsibility to advertise these private services to the people as a better alternative so they don't feel like the rug has been snatched?
Wouldn't it be better to turn the program over to a private non-profit instead of just getting rid of it?
Now, I know there is a section of the country that doesn't give a shit.
Cut the budget at all costs.
If it doesn't benefit me, get rid of it, let them fend for themselves.
If this is the true philosophy of the budget cutters, then they need to announce it and stick by it.
Do not lie to the people saying you are doing something that will ultimately benefit them, when you ultimately don't care.
Now, I know there is a section of the country that doesn't give a shit.
Cut the budget at all costs.
If it doesn't benefit me, get rid of it, let them fend for themselves.
If this is the true philosophy of the budget cutters, then they need to announce it and stick by it.
Do not lie to the people saying you are doing something that will ultimately benefit them, when you ultimately don't care.
Responsible budget cuts are not contracting
It is not government paying a contractor to do work
That leads to fraud waste and abuse
It is not just cutting funding
or completely cutting a program
It's not assuming that charities churches and non profits will take up the slack
It's calling out to private groups
Determining if they can support all clients and services
And ensuring that they can provide better services
Long term business plan
Deep Horoscope
In his book Priceless: How I Went Undercover to Rescue the World's Stolen Treasures, former FBI agent Robert K. Wittman tells the story of the world's second largest crystal ball. Worth $350,000 and once belonging to the Chinese Dowager Empress, it was stolen from a museum. Wittman never located the actual robber, but years later he tracked down the crystal ball to a person who had acquired it quite innocently and by accident. She was a young witch in New Jersey who, unaware of its origins or value, kept it on her bedroom dresser with a baseball cap on top of it. I suspect you may have a comparable adventure in the coming months, Gemini. If you look hard and keep an open mind, you will eventually recover lost riches or a disappeared prize in the least likely of places.
Are you ready to shed your superstitious fears about the future? Would you like to slip into 2012 armed with an influx of confidence and poise?
Are you ready to shed your superstitious fears about the future? Would you like to slip into 2012 armed with an influx of confidence and poise?
Christian Nation
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.
-First Amendment
In the ridiculous religion debates I've seen going on lately,
People seem so confused.
Let me break it down.
Our federal government is not based on Judeo-Christian principles.
Our culture is.
The Treaty of Tripoli states "Art. 11. As the Government of the United States of America is not, in any sense, founded on the Christian religion; as it has in itself no character of enmity against the laws, religion, or tranquillity, of Mussulmen; and, as the said States never entered into any war, or act of hostility against any Mahometan nation, it is declared by the parties, that no pretext arising from religious opinions, shall ever produce an interruption of the harmony existing between the two countries."
Our founding fathers purposely excluded religious ideas from their government planning. They did not want us to become another England.
The first American settlers were indeed Christian. Their lifestyle was drenched with judeo christian principles.
I think the confusion starts when we see that these principles did find their way into state law. The citizens shaped state legislation and many local officials were Christian.
Currently over 70% of our citizens identify as Christian(and I include Catholics). Our current culture is permeated with Judeo-Christian principles.
BUT I've come to question our Christian status.
Matthew 25
31"When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his throne in heavenly glory.
32All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats.
33He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.
34"Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world.
35For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in,
36I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.'
37"Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink?
38When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you?
39When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'
40"The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'
41"Then he will say to those on his left, 'Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.
42For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink,
43I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.'
44"They also will answer, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?'
45"He will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.'
46"Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life."
-First Amendment
In the ridiculous religion debates I've seen going on lately,
People seem so confused.
Let me break it down.
Our federal government is not based on Judeo-Christian principles.
Our culture is.
The Treaty of Tripoli states "Art. 11. As the Government of the United States of America is not, in any sense, founded on the Christian religion; as it has in itself no character of enmity against the laws, religion, or tranquillity, of Mussulmen; and, as the said States never entered into any war, or act of hostility against any Mahometan nation, it is declared by the parties, that no pretext arising from religious opinions, shall ever produce an interruption of the harmony existing between the two countries."
Our founding fathers purposely excluded religious ideas from their government planning. They did not want us to become another England.
The first American settlers were indeed Christian. Their lifestyle was drenched with judeo christian principles.
I think the confusion starts when we see that these principles did find their way into state law. The citizens shaped state legislation and many local officials were Christian.
Currently over 70% of our citizens identify as Christian(and I include Catholics). Our current culture is permeated with Judeo-Christian principles.
BUT I've come to question our Christian status.
Matthew 25
31"When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his throne in heavenly glory.
32All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats.
33He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.
34"Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world.
35For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in,
36I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.'
37"Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink?
38When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you?
39When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'
40"The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'
41"Then he will say to those on his left, 'Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.
42For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink,
43I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.'
44"They also will answer, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?'
45"He will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.'
46"Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life."
Exploitation
Word of the day
noun
1 the action or fact of treating someone unfairly in order to benefit from their work:
the exploitation of migrant workers.
2 the action of making use of and benefiting from resources:
the Bronze Age saw exploitation of gold deposits.
• the fact of making use of a situation to gain unfair advantage for oneself:
this administration's exploitation of the fear of crime.
New Oxford American Dictionary
noun
1 the action or fact of treating someone unfairly in order to benefit from their work:
the exploitation of migrant workers.
2 the action of making use of and benefiting from resources:
the Bronze Age saw exploitation of gold deposits.
• the fact of making use of a situation to gain unfair advantage for oneself:
this administration's exploitation of the fear of crime.
New Oxford American Dictionary
04 January 2012
Taking life
If taking a human life doesn't fuck with your head, you were already fucked in the head
killology
Swank and Marchand's World War II study of US Army combatants on the beaches of Normandy found that after 60 days of continuous combat, 98% of the surviving soldiers had become psychiatric casualties. And the remaining 2% were identified as "aggressive psychopathic personalities." Thus it is not too far from the mark to observe that there is something about continuous, inescapable combat which will drive 98% of all men insane, and the other 2% were crazy when they got there.
killology
Crony Capitalism
Word of the day
n
Definition of 'Crony Capitalism'
A description of capitalist society as being based on the close relationships between businessmen and the state. Instead of success being determined by a free market and the rule of law, the success of a business is dependent on the favoritism that is shown to it by the ruling government in the form of tax breaks, government grants and other incentives.
Investopedia explains 'Crony Capitalism'
Both socialists and capitalists have been at odds with each other over assigning blame to the opposite group for the rise of crony capitalism. Socialists believe that crony capitalism is the inevitable result of pure capitalism. This belief is supported by their claims that people in power, whether business or government, look to stay in power and the only way to do this is to create networks between government and business that support each other.
On the other hand, capitalists believe that crony capitalism arises from the need of socialist governments to control the state. This requires businesses to operate closely with the government to acheive the greatest success.
I agree with socialists in this case based on American history.
n
Definition of 'Crony Capitalism'
A description of capitalist society as being based on the close relationships between businessmen and the state. Instead of success being determined by a free market and the rule of law, the success of a business is dependent on the favoritism that is shown to it by the ruling government in the form of tax breaks, government grants and other incentives.
Investopedia explains 'Crony Capitalism'
Both socialists and capitalists have been at odds with each other over assigning blame to the opposite group for the rise of crony capitalism. Socialists believe that crony capitalism is the inevitable result of pure capitalism. This belief is supported by their claims that people in power, whether business or government, look to stay in power and the only way to do this is to create networks between government and business that support each other.
On the other hand, capitalists believe that crony capitalism arises from the need of socialist governments to control the state. This requires businesses to operate closely with the government to acheive the greatest success.
I agree with socialists in this case based on American history.
03 January 2012
Work Ethic
2 Thesselonians 3
6Now we command you, beloved, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, to keep away from believers who are living in idleness and not according to the tradition that they received from us.
7For you yourselves know how you ought to imitate us; we were not idle when we were with you,
8and we did not eat anyone’s bread without paying for it; but with toil and labor we worked night and day, so that we might not burden any of you.
9This was not because we do not have that right, but in order to give you an example to imitate.
10For even when we were with you, we gave you this command: Anyone unwilling to work should not eat.
11For we hear that some of you are living in idleness, mere busybodies, not doing any work.
12Now such persons we command and exhort in the Lord Jesus Christ to do their work quietly and to earn their own living.
13Brothers and sisters, do not be weary in doing what is right.
14Take note of those who do not obey what we say in this letter; have nothing to do with them, so that they may be ashamed.
15Do not regard them as enemies, but warn them as believers.
Final Greetings and Benediction
16Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in all ways. The Lord be with all of you.
17I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand. This is the mark in every letter of mine; it is the way I write.
18The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with all of you.
Though Jesus and Paul aren't always on the same page
Matthew 6
25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?
26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?
27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life[e]?
28 “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin.
29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these.
30 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith?
31 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’
32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.
33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Matthew 15
32 Jesus called his disciples to him and said, “I have compassion for these people; they have already been with me three days and have nothing to eat. I do not want to send them away hungry, or they may collapse on the way.”
33 His disciples answered, “Where could we get enough bread in this remote place to feed such a crowd?”
34 “How many loaves do you have?” Jesus asked.
“Seven,” they replied, “and a few small fish.”
35 He told the crowd to sit down on the ground.
36 Then he took the seven loaves and the fish, and when he had given thanks, he broke them and gave them to the disciples, and they in turn to the people.
37 They all ate and were satisfied. Afterward the disciples picked up seven basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over.
38 The number of those who ate was four thousand men, besides women and children.
39 After Jesus had sent the crowd away, he got into the boat and went to the vicinity of Magadan.
Mark 8
Luke 9
12 Late in the afternoon the Twelve came to him and said, “Send the crowd away so they can go to the surrounding villages and countryside and find food and lodging, because we are in a remote place here.”
13 He replied, “You give them something to eat.”
They answered, “We have only five loaves of bread and two fish—unless we go and buy food for all this crowd.”
14 (About five thousand men were there.)
But he said to his disciples, “Have them sit down in groups of about fifty each.”
15 The disciples did so, and everyone sat down.
16 Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke them. Then he gave them to the disciples to distribute to the people.
17 They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over.
Luke 12
John 6
6Now we command you, beloved, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, to keep away from believers who are living in idleness and not according to the tradition that they received from us.
7For you yourselves know how you ought to imitate us; we were not idle when we were with you,
8and we did not eat anyone’s bread without paying for it; but with toil and labor we worked night and day, so that we might not burden any of you.
9This was not because we do not have that right, but in order to give you an example to imitate.
10For even when we were with you, we gave you this command: Anyone unwilling to work should not eat.
11For we hear that some of you are living in idleness, mere busybodies, not doing any work.
12Now such persons we command and exhort in the Lord Jesus Christ to do their work quietly and to earn their own living.
13Brothers and sisters, do not be weary in doing what is right.
14Take note of those who do not obey what we say in this letter; have nothing to do with them, so that they may be ashamed.
15Do not regard them as enemies, but warn them as believers.
Final Greetings and Benediction
16Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in all ways. The Lord be with all of you.
17I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand. This is the mark in every letter of mine; it is the way I write.
18The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with all of you.
Though Jesus and Paul aren't always on the same page
Matthew 6
25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?
26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?
27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life[e]?
28 “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin.
29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these.
30 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith?
31 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’
32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.
33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Matthew 15
32 Jesus called his disciples to him and said, “I have compassion for these people; they have already been with me three days and have nothing to eat. I do not want to send them away hungry, or they may collapse on the way.”
33 His disciples answered, “Where could we get enough bread in this remote place to feed such a crowd?”
34 “How many loaves do you have?” Jesus asked.
“Seven,” they replied, “and a few small fish.”
35 He told the crowd to sit down on the ground.
36 Then he took the seven loaves and the fish, and when he had given thanks, he broke them and gave them to the disciples, and they in turn to the people.
37 They all ate and were satisfied. Afterward the disciples picked up seven basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over.
38 The number of those who ate was four thousand men, besides women and children.
39 After Jesus had sent the crowd away, he got into the boat and went to the vicinity of Magadan.
Mark 8
Luke 9
12 Late in the afternoon the Twelve came to him and said, “Send the crowd away so they can go to the surrounding villages and countryside and find food and lodging, because we are in a remote place here.”
13 He replied, “You give them something to eat.”
They answered, “We have only five loaves of bread and two fish—unless we go and buy food for all this crowd.”
14 (About five thousand men were there.)
But he said to his disciples, “Have them sit down in groups of about fifty each.”
15 The disciples did so, and everyone sat down.
16 Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke them. Then he gave them to the disciples to distribute to the people.
17 They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over.
Luke 12
John 6
Politics don't matter
Ethical capitalism, socialism, and Communism are all theories that haven't worked in practice. The only cases of half-ass success were on a very small scale and didn't last long.
Power always seems find its way into the hands of a few people.
The most successful large economies use a mixture of them all.
It doesn't matter what party you put in there. Doesn't matter what economic system you have.
I don't even advocate for third party candidates any more. If they aren't bought out by the wealthy, they're constrained by them.
If the people aren't represented, then they will be oppressed.
Our elected officials don't represent the people. Their real constituents are the corporations.
Our government has always been a strong arm against revolution. The wealthy restrain themselves when they realize their practices aren't good for business.
Voting isn't the only way to participate in government, it's not even the best way. Using our rights guaranteed in the first amendment work everyday, not just election day.
We're partially in this mess because only 60% of people voting age actually vote during a presidential election. That drops to around 30% during midterm elections. That's not democracy.
Then, corporations lobby and insert their people into government positions that control policy.
Boots is right on the only thing that works with the wealthy is protest. Whether it be strikes, boycotts, letters, exposure to the press, etc. They listen when you fuck with their profits.
The only real change occurs when the people come together.
The wealthy's winning hand is divide and conquer. They oppress us and get us to fight with each other. Telling us that poor people, immigrants, or other minorities are the cause of the problems they create.
They get away with shit because they've conned us into thinking we can't live without their product. As long as they can make a profit off of enough suckers buying their crap, they'll do whatever they want.
That points to their other winning strategy which is lowering our collective self worth.
Workers and consumers need to unite to overcome all this bullshit.
I'd like to see a society where the people actually create and consent to the laws and economics that affect our lives.
Power always seems find its way into the hands of a few people.
The most successful large economies use a mixture of them all.
It doesn't matter what party you put in there. Doesn't matter what economic system you have.
I don't even advocate for third party candidates any more. If they aren't bought out by the wealthy, they're constrained by them.
If the people aren't represented, then they will be oppressed.
Our elected officials don't represent the people. Their real constituents are the corporations.
Our government has always been a strong arm against revolution. The wealthy restrain themselves when they realize their practices aren't good for business.
Voting isn't the only way to participate in government, it's not even the best way. Using our rights guaranteed in the first amendment work everyday, not just election day.
We're partially in this mess because only 60% of people voting age actually vote during a presidential election. That drops to around 30% during midterm elections. That's not democracy.
Then, corporations lobby and insert their people into government positions that control policy.
Boots is right on the only thing that works with the wealthy is protest. Whether it be strikes, boycotts, letters, exposure to the press, etc. They listen when you fuck with their profits.
The only real change occurs when the people come together.
The wealthy's winning hand is divide and conquer. They oppress us and get us to fight with each other. Telling us that poor people, immigrants, or other minorities are the cause of the problems they create.
They get away with shit because they've conned us into thinking we can't live without their product. As long as they can make a profit off of enough suckers buying their crap, they'll do whatever they want.
That points to their other winning strategy which is lowering our collective self worth.
Workers and consumers need to unite to overcome all this bullshit.
I'd like to see a society where the people actually create and consent to the laws and economics that affect our lives.
01 January 2012
Emperor's suggestions
Enact community service program to replace all government assistance
Receive government assistance/services in exchange for community service work
Let individual set the exchange
They will provide the service they choose in order to get the assistance they want
They will receive assistance through education. Improving job skills, temp agencies, learning how to start their own businesses.
Government program funding
donation.
enact tariffs
Enact 10% sales tax alternative
People and businesses donate 10% of their products, services, labor to
the people.
Variety based economy
A bit different than competition
State consumption tax
Sales tax on non essentials
States collect all revenue from citizens
States give portion of that revenue to federal government for those duties enumerated in the constitution
Non profit hospitals
Non profit schools
Non profit utilities
Public option for necessities
That compete with private entities
buy local
Discourage hoarding
If items need to be stored,
store in an accessible location to all.
4 hour alternating work blocks
Functional education
Public education for community service
Professional apprenticeship
OJT
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