Stereotypes, discrimination
Realize that what you see isn't necessarily truth.
Realize that you don't see everything
Realize that you ignore some things on purpose
Stop making assumptions
Ask questions
31 March 2012
28 March 2012
Deep Thought
Although violence and the use of force may appear powerful and decisive, their benefits are short-lived. Violence can never bring a lasting and long term resolution to any problem, because it is unpredictable and for every problem it seems to solve, others are created. On the other hand, truth remains constant and will ultimately prevail.
Dalai Lama
Dalai Lama
The people's decision
In cases of the media putting out information and citizens making judgements before a trial
Or a private school fining students for having a Facebook account
Or Police(plenary) powers of the states
Or a company firing someone over something they said
We see that the constitution doesn't apply to citizen interactions
The constitution is a document that outlines the duties, responsibilities, and limitations of the federal government
Tenth Amendment
The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people.
The declaration states that governments are instituted to secure our rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
From whom?
Now it seems we are only worried about our rights being secured from government.
Though, that is not a legal document
What stops other citizens from violating our rights?
Usually done as terms of an agreement or exchange. Usually terms of employment.
The argument is, if you don't like it, you don't have to enter the contract.
Then there's the 14th amendment
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.
What about people depriving others of life, liberty, or property through coercion? The laws are ever changing
Or a private school fining students for having a Facebook account
Or Police(plenary) powers of the states
Or a company firing someone over something they said
We see that the constitution doesn't apply to citizen interactions
The constitution is a document that outlines the duties, responsibilities, and limitations of the federal government
Tenth Amendment
The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people.
The declaration states that governments are instituted to secure our rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
From whom?
Now it seems we are only worried about our rights being secured from government.
Though, that is not a legal document
What stops other citizens from violating our rights?
Usually done as terms of an agreement or exchange. Usually terms of employment.
The argument is, if you don't like it, you don't have to enter the contract.
Then there's the 14th amendment
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.
What about people depriving others of life, liberty, or property through coercion? The laws are ever changing
Realistic Economics
I say
that there has never been a true capitalist state
there has never been a true socialist state
I'm talking about private ownership vs. public ownership of the means of production, distribution, and exchange
an economic system based on the private ownership of the means of production, distribution, and exchange,
characterized by the freedom of capitalists to operate or manage their property for profit
in competitive conditions
VS.
an economic theory or system in which the means of production, distribution, and exchange are owned by the community collectively, usually through the state.
It is characterized by production for use rather than profit,
by equality of individual wealth,
by the absence of competitive economic activity,
and, usually, by government determination of investment, prices, and production levels
When has ownership ever been completely private or public?
The constitution gives congress the power to regulate commerce.
The government (federal and state) has owned a great percentage of land since our independence.
I could ask what percentage of a country's GDP is derived from public or private ownership?
I'll say there has never been true capitalism in America
because the state has always been a tool of the wealthy.
The wealthy elite would never have gotten this much power without the state.
If the state was not involved at all, not benefiting or restricting, then things would look a lot different. I don't know how it would look, but it would be different.
The job of the american government is to maximize profits while suppressing insurrection.
Concessions were made for workers and consumers to suppress an uprising
private profits, public debt.
There are capitalistic welfare states.
I make a distinction between socialism and welfare states
one where everyone's basic needs are met by the state
shelter, food, education, healthcare...
but businesses are owned privately
So when someone says they want a free market or they want socialism, that really doesn't mean shit to me
I want to know what their society would look like. Details.
who owns what, who gives what, what you can and cannot do? what is everyone's role?
People say 'don't blame capitalism, blame crony capitalism'
Whatever they think capitalism is, doesn't exist.
Will never exist as long as there are a few (we call them elected officials) who make, enforce, and interpret the law.
Crony capitalism is the true capitalism
It's the corruption inherent in the system
*Updated from Oct 2011
that there has never been a true capitalist state
there has never been a true socialist state
I'm talking about private ownership vs. public ownership of the means of production, distribution, and exchange
an economic system based on the private ownership of the means of production, distribution, and exchange,
characterized by the freedom of capitalists to operate or manage their property for profit
in competitive conditions
VS.
an economic theory or system in which the means of production, distribution, and exchange are owned by the community collectively, usually through the state.
It is characterized by production for use rather than profit,
by equality of individual wealth,
by the absence of competitive economic activity,
and, usually, by government determination of investment, prices, and production levels
When has ownership ever been completely private or public?
The constitution gives congress the power to regulate commerce.
The government (federal and state) has owned a great percentage of land since our independence.
I could ask what percentage of a country's GDP is derived from public or private ownership?
I'll say there has never been true capitalism in America
because the state has always been a tool of the wealthy.
The wealthy elite would never have gotten this much power without the state.
If the state was not involved at all, not benefiting or restricting, then things would look a lot different. I don't know how it would look, but it would be different.
The job of the american government is to maximize profits while suppressing insurrection.
Concessions were made for workers and consumers to suppress an uprising
private profits, public debt.
There are capitalistic welfare states.
I make a distinction between socialism and welfare states
one where everyone's basic needs are met by the state
shelter, food, education, healthcare...
but businesses are owned privately
So when someone says they want a free market or they want socialism, that really doesn't mean shit to me
I want to know what their society would look like. Details.
who owns what, who gives what, what you can and cannot do? what is everyone's role?
People say 'don't blame capitalism, blame crony capitalism'
Whatever they think capitalism is, doesn't exist.
Will never exist as long as there are a few (we call them elected officials) who make, enforce, and interpret the law.
Crony capitalism is the true capitalism
It's the corruption inherent in the system
*Updated from Oct 2011
Letter to my representatives
Enact term limits for congress and supreme court justices
two 6 year terms for senators
Six 2 year terms for representatives
16 years for justices
two 6 year terms for senators
Six 2 year terms for representatives
16 years for justices
27 March 2012
Deep Thought
"Peace has a great deal to do with warm-heartedness and respect for the lives of others, avoiding doing them harm and regarding their lives as being as precious as our own. If, on that basis, we can also be of help to others, so much the better."
Dalai Lama
Dalai Lama
26 March 2012
Deep Thought
If we can manage to refrain from harming others in our everyday actions and words, we can start to give more serious attention to actively doing good, and this can be a source of great joy and inner confidence. We can benefit others through our actions by being warm and generous toward them, by being charitable, and by helping those in need.
Dalai Lama
Dalai Lama
25 March 2012
Deep Thought
The very purpose of spirituality is self-discipline. Rather than criticizing others, we should evaluate and criticize ourselves. Ask yourself, what am I doing about my anger, my attachment, my pride, my jealousy? These are the things we should check in our day to day lives.
Dalai Lama
Dalai Lama
What is a Healthy Relationship?
Healthy relationships:
make people happier and ease stress
are realistic and flexible
mean sharing and talking
include self-care
use fair fighting techniques
Keep expectations realistic.
No one can be everything we might want him or her to be. Sometimes people disappoint us. It's not all-or-nothing, though. Healthy relationships mean accepting people as they are and not trying to change them!
Talk with each other.
It can't be said enough:
communication is essential in healthy relationships! It means—
Take the time.
Really be there.
Genuinely listen.
Don't plan what to say next while you're trying to listen. Don't interrupt.
Listen with your ears and your heart.
Sometimes people have emotional messages to share and weave it into their words.
Ask questions.
Ask if you think you may have missed the point. Ask friendly (and appropriate!) questions. Ask for opinions. Show your interest. Open the communication door.
Share information.
Studies show that sharing information especially helps relationships begin. Be generous in sharing yourself, but don't overwhelm others with too much too soon.
Be flexible.
Most of us try to keep people and situations just the way we like them to be. It's natural to feel apprehensive, even sad or angry, when people or things change and we're not ready for it. Healthy relationships mean change and growth are allowed!
Take care of you.
You probably hope those around you like you so you may try to please them. Don't forget to please yourself. Healthy relationships are mutual!
Be dependable.
If you make plans with someone, follow through. If you have an assignment deadline, meet it. If you take on a responsibility, complete it. Healthy relationships are trustworthy!
Fight fair.
Most relationships have some conflict. It only means you disagree about something, it doesn't have to mean you don't like each other! When you have a problem:
Negotiate a time to talk about it.
Don't have difficult conversations when you are very angry or tired. Ask, "When is a good time to talk about something that is bothering me?" Healthy relationships are based on respect and have room for both.
Don't criticize.
Attack the problem, not the other person. Open sensitive conversations with "I" statements; talk about how you struggle with the problem. Don't open with "you" statements; avoid blaming the other person for your thoughts and feelings. Healthy relationships don't blame.
Don't assign feelings or motives.
Let others speak for themselves. Healthy relationships recognize each person's right to explain themselves.
Stay with the topic.
Don't use a current concern as a reason to jump into everything that bothers you. Healthy relationships don't use ammunition from the past to fuel the present.
Say, "I'm sorry" when you're wrong.
It goes a long way in making things right again. Healthy relationships can admit mistakes.
Don't assume things.
When we feel close to someone, it's easy to think we know how he or she thinks and feels. We can be very wrong! In healthy relationships, check things out.
Ask for help if you need it.
Talk with someone who can help you find resolution—like a counselor or therapist, a teacher, a minister or even parents. Healthy relationships aren't afraid to ask for help.
There may not be a resolved ending.
Be prepared to compromise or to disagree about some things. Healthy relationships don't demand conformity or perfect agreement.
Don't hold grudges.
You don't have to accept anything and everything, but don't hold grudges—they just drain your energy. Studies show that the more we see the best in others, the better healthy relationships get. Healthy relationships don't hold on to past hurts and misunderstandings.
The goal is for everyone to be a winner.
Relationships with winners and losers don't last. Healthy relationships are between winners who seek answers to problems together.
You can leave a relationship.
You can choose to move out of a relationship. Studies tell us that loyalty is very important in good relationships, but healthy relationships are NOW, not some hoped-for future development.
Show your warmth.
Studies tell us warmth is highly valued by most people in their relationships. Healthy relationships show emotional warmth!
Keep your life balanced.
Other people help make our lives satisfying but they can't create that satisfaction for us. Only you can fill your life. Don't overload on activities, but do use your time to try new things—clubs, volunteering, lectures, projects. You'll have more opportunities to meet people and more to share with them. Healthy relationships aren't dependent!
It's a process.
Sometimes it looks like everyone else in the world is confident and connected. Actually, most people feel just like you feel, wondering how to fit in and have good relationships. It takes time to meet people and get to know them...so, make "small talk"...respond to others...smile...keep trying. Healthy relationships can be learned and practiced and keep getting better!
Be yourself!
It's much easier and much more fun to be you than to pretend to be something or someone else. Sooner or later, it catches up anyway. Healthy relationships are made of real people, not images!
article
*Updated post from a long time ago
make people happier and ease stress
are realistic and flexible
mean sharing and talking
include self-care
use fair fighting techniques
Keep expectations realistic.
No one can be everything we might want him or her to be. Sometimes people disappoint us. It's not all-or-nothing, though. Healthy relationships mean accepting people as they are and not trying to change them!
Talk with each other.
It can't be said enough:
communication is essential in healthy relationships! It means—
Take the time.
Really be there.
Genuinely listen.
Don't plan what to say next while you're trying to listen. Don't interrupt.
Listen with your ears and your heart.
Sometimes people have emotional messages to share and weave it into their words.
Ask questions.
Ask if you think you may have missed the point. Ask friendly (and appropriate!) questions. Ask for opinions. Show your interest. Open the communication door.
Share information.
Studies show that sharing information especially helps relationships begin. Be generous in sharing yourself, but don't overwhelm others with too much too soon.
Be flexible.
Most of us try to keep people and situations just the way we like them to be. It's natural to feel apprehensive, even sad or angry, when people or things change and we're not ready for it. Healthy relationships mean change and growth are allowed!
Take care of you.
You probably hope those around you like you so you may try to please them. Don't forget to please yourself. Healthy relationships are mutual!
Be dependable.
If you make plans with someone, follow through. If you have an assignment deadline, meet it. If you take on a responsibility, complete it. Healthy relationships are trustworthy!
Fight fair.
Most relationships have some conflict. It only means you disagree about something, it doesn't have to mean you don't like each other! When you have a problem:
Negotiate a time to talk about it.
Don't have difficult conversations when you are very angry or tired. Ask, "When is a good time to talk about something that is bothering me?" Healthy relationships are based on respect and have room for both.
Don't criticize.
Attack the problem, not the other person. Open sensitive conversations with "I" statements; talk about how you struggle with the problem. Don't open with "you" statements; avoid blaming the other person for your thoughts and feelings. Healthy relationships don't blame.
Don't assign feelings or motives.
Let others speak for themselves. Healthy relationships recognize each person's right to explain themselves.
Stay with the topic.
Don't use a current concern as a reason to jump into everything that bothers you. Healthy relationships don't use ammunition from the past to fuel the present.
Say, "I'm sorry" when you're wrong.
It goes a long way in making things right again. Healthy relationships can admit mistakes.
Don't assume things.
When we feel close to someone, it's easy to think we know how he or she thinks and feels. We can be very wrong! In healthy relationships, check things out.
Ask for help if you need it.
Talk with someone who can help you find resolution—like a counselor or therapist, a teacher, a minister or even parents. Healthy relationships aren't afraid to ask for help.
There may not be a resolved ending.
Be prepared to compromise or to disagree about some things. Healthy relationships don't demand conformity or perfect agreement.
Don't hold grudges.
You don't have to accept anything and everything, but don't hold grudges—they just drain your energy. Studies show that the more we see the best in others, the better healthy relationships get. Healthy relationships don't hold on to past hurts and misunderstandings.
The goal is for everyone to be a winner.
Relationships with winners and losers don't last. Healthy relationships are between winners who seek answers to problems together.
You can leave a relationship.
You can choose to move out of a relationship. Studies tell us that loyalty is very important in good relationships, but healthy relationships are NOW, not some hoped-for future development.
Show your warmth.
Studies tell us warmth is highly valued by most people in their relationships. Healthy relationships show emotional warmth!
Keep your life balanced.
Other people help make our lives satisfying but they can't create that satisfaction for us. Only you can fill your life. Don't overload on activities, but do use your time to try new things—clubs, volunteering, lectures, projects. You'll have more opportunities to meet people and more to share with them. Healthy relationships aren't dependent!
It's a process.
Sometimes it looks like everyone else in the world is confident and connected. Actually, most people feel just like you feel, wondering how to fit in and have good relationships. It takes time to meet people and get to know them...so, make "small talk"...respond to others...smile...keep trying. Healthy relationships can be learned and practiced and keep getting better!
Be yourself!
It's much easier and much more fun to be you than to pretend to be something or someone else. Sooner or later, it catches up anyway. Healthy relationships are made of real people, not images!
article
*Updated post from a long time ago
Know your place
It's good to have an opinion on everything
It's better to realize that your opinion is not valid without evidence to support it
You have a right to say whatever you want
I have a right not to care what you think
It's better to realize that your opinion is not valid without evidence to support it
You have a right to say whatever you want
I have a right not to care what you think
24 March 2012
The New Covenant
Jeremiah 31
27“The days are coming,” declares the Lord, “when I will plant the house of Israel and the house of Judah with the offspring of men and of animals.
28Just as I watched over them to uproot and tear down, and to overthrow, destroy and bring disaster, so I will watch over them to build and to plant,” declares the Lord.
29“In those days people will no longer say,
‘The fathers have eaten sour grapes,
and the children’s teeth are set on edge.’
30Instead, everyone will die for his own sin; whoever eats sour grapes—his own teeth will be set on edge.
31“The time is coming,” declares the Lord,
“when I will make a new covenant
with the house of Israel
and with the house of Judah.
32It will not be like the covenant
I made with their forefathers
when I took them by the hand
to lead them out of Egypt,
because they broke my covenant,
though I was a husband tod them,e”
declares the Lord.
33“This is the covenant I will make with the house of Israel
after that time,” declares the Lord.
“I will put my law in their minds
and write it on their hearts.
I will be their God,
and they will be my people.
34No longer will a man teach his neighbor,
or a man his brother, saying, ‘Know the Lord,’
because they will all know me,
from the least of them to the greatest,”
declares the Lord.
“For I will forgive their wickedness
and will remember their sins no more.”
27“The days are coming,” declares the Lord, “when I will plant the house of Israel and the house of Judah with the offspring of men and of animals.
28Just as I watched over them to uproot and tear down, and to overthrow, destroy and bring disaster, so I will watch over them to build and to plant,” declares the Lord.
29“In those days people will no longer say,
‘The fathers have eaten sour grapes,
and the children’s teeth are set on edge.’
30Instead, everyone will die for his own sin; whoever eats sour grapes—his own teeth will be set on edge.
31“The time is coming,” declares the Lord,
“when I will make a new covenant
with the house of Israel
and with the house of Judah.
32It will not be like the covenant
I made with their forefathers
when I took them by the hand
to lead them out of Egypt,
because they broke my covenant,
though I was a husband tod them,e”
declares the Lord.
33“This is the covenant I will make with the house of Israel
after that time,” declares the Lord.
“I will put my law in their minds
and write it on their hearts.
I will be their God,
and they will be my people.
34No longer will a man teach his neighbor,
or a man his brother, saying, ‘Know the Lord,’
because they will all know me,
from the least of them to the greatest,”
declares the Lord.
“For I will forgive their wickedness
and will remember their sins no more.”
About OWS
It is horizontal, anonymous, individual, and autonomous. It's hard to hold down.
There are also libertarians and anarchists who brought in malice against the police. This malice was fueled by the actions of the police.
As a group, I think OWS sees the macro economic injustice (Finally) but don't really notice the overall macro injustice, the means by which the wealthy gain and keep power. And they don't seem to see micro injustice, the little part they play in the oppression of others.
When I talk about macro and micro injustice, I'm talking about tactics used since the first European touched foot on American soil. Those tactics are all the -isms. All the things that divide people. Murder, Disease, Disenfranchisement and overt control of legislation and enforcement of that legislation.
The purpose is to prevent workers from uniting and removing the wealthy from their seat of power. Divide and conquer works so well because when they divide, they give one group privilege over the other. They tell one group that power and control could be theirs if they work hard enough.
Then they plant the seeds of fear. That women and people of color are trying to take privilege from white men. So those with privilege are always paranoid. Always afraid that what they have is going to be taken by someone else who is not deserving.
The wealthy create a sense of envy in the have nots and make us believe that the only way to come up is to gain privilege that is somehow withheld by white men.
OWS arises from a protest against The 21st century application of divide and conquer because the wealthy are starting to take economic privileges away from white men Because they really don't need them anymore. The wealthy have got workers in China and Mexico to do their bidding at a lower costs. They realize that giving white men privilege is expensive and interferes with their profit.
White males Continue to covet their dwindling privilege and take efforts to ensure that POC and women are at lower rungs than they are.
A time tested strategy that is based off of fear and complete bullshit but works brilliantly. We all need to see that we are being played against each other. I don't think OWS, as a whole, is aware of this. They don't notice the ingrained competition/conflict within us all.
I remember when people started to talk about the treatment of people of color and women within OWS, White OWS people balked and said they were distracting from the movement that was basically a fight between the 99% and the 1%.
OWS tends to have a surface admiration for movements of the past but they are so interested in creating something unique that they don't seem to delve deep enough into past movements to really learn anything from them. They seem to learn tactics but that seems to be it.
It's all about people getting together because they are angry about injustice that affects their life. That injustice is economic injustice.
And most people in OWS are not dealing with racial injustice or sexism. So they balk when people bring it up and when people shine the light on them.
It's all about life, liberty, and property. OWS focuses on property and people of color have to focus on life.
23 March 2012
22 March 2012
Deep Horoscope
The German word Weltratsel can be translated as "World Riddle." Coined by the philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche, it refers to questions like "What is the meaning of existence?" and "What is the nature of reality?" According to my reading of the astrological omens, Gemini, you're now primed to deepen your understanding of the World Riddle. For the next few weeks, you will have an enhanced ability to pry loose useful secrets about some big mysteries. Certain passages in the Book of Life that have always seemed like gobbledygook to you will suddenly make sense. Here's a bonus: Every time you decipher more of the World Riddle, you will solve another small piece of your Personal Riddle.
Somewhere there's a treasure that has no value to anyone but you, and a secret that's meaningless to everyone except you, and a frontier that harbors a revelation only you would know how to exploit.
*
SACRED ADVERTISEMENT
You know beyond any doubt that each of your heart's beats originates as a gift of love directly from the Goddess herself. You understand that the laws of physics are fine-tuned to create a universe in which you can thrive. You realize with visceral lucidity that everything you see is permeated with a single, unified conscious intelligence, of which you partake intimately. This intelligence is immortal, and thus, so are you. As you register the shocking joy of these truths imprinting themselves on your perfect body, every one of your cells purrs with luminous gratitude.
*
Free Will
Somewhere there's a treasure that has no value to anyone but you, and a secret that's meaningless to everyone except you, and a frontier that harbors a revelation only you would know how to exploit.
*
SACRED ADVERTISEMENT
You know beyond any doubt that each of your heart's beats originates as a gift of love directly from the Goddess herself. You understand that the laws of physics are fine-tuned to create a universe in which you can thrive. You realize with visceral lucidity that everything you see is permeated with a single, unified conscious intelligence, of which you partake intimately. This intelligence is immortal, and thus, so are you. As you register the shocking joy of these truths imprinting themselves on your perfect body, every one of your cells purrs with luminous gratitude.
*
Free Will
Deep Thought
A racist is someone who benefits from oppression
Thom Hartman caller from seminary
I'd say that white privilege is benefiting from the racial oppression of others
Thom Hartman caller from seminary
I'd say that white privilege is benefiting from the racial oppression of others
Deep Thought
“People fail to get along because they fear each other; they fear each other because they don't know each other; they don't know each other because they have not communicated with each other.”
― Martin Luther King Jr.
20 March 2012
Deep Thought
the logic of intolerance is as simple as two propositions.
“The truth is of infinite value” and
“I have the truth.”
Ron P. Davis
Sexuality discussion
“The truth is of infinite value” and
“I have the truth.”
Ron P. Davis
Sexuality discussion
19 March 2012
Scientists are people too
The scientific method is wondrous
It is still carried out by humans
Scientists may say they are objective
but they are not impervious to corruption.
The great thing about the scientific method is one's ability to test the studies
and retest and review.
Scientific research isn't free. Someone has to pay for it. That someone may control the outcome of a study
Lack of funding affects research too. Cutting corners does not make for good science.
The best thing is to purposely find contradictory studies and decide for yourself
That takes a standard education in the scientific method
But, it's not that hard to see mistakes. Then thing about science is, that stuff tends to pop out at you.
Don't believe anything, test everything.
It is still carried out by humans
Scientists may say they are objective
but they are not impervious to corruption.
The great thing about the scientific method is one's ability to test the studies
and retest and review.
Scientific research isn't free. Someone has to pay for it. That someone may control the outcome of a study
Lack of funding affects research too. Cutting corners does not make for good science.
The best thing is to purposely find contradictory studies and decide for yourself
That takes a standard education in the scientific method
But, it's not that hard to see mistakes. Then thing about science is, that stuff tends to pop out at you.
Don't believe anything, test everything.
Collective
word of the day
noun
A collective is an organization that is managed without hierarchy.
This means that every member has equal decision-making power. Some decisions may be delegated to individual members or sub-committees, but no one has the special, un-recallable authority usually granted to a manager. The legal structure will specify that all Members are automatically Directors and must accept the responsibilities of Directorshop, or that the organization is managed by Member meetings.
A worker collective is a particular kind of worker cooperative. A worker collective adheres to the same cooperative principles as does a worker cooperative. However, worker collectives also adopt a non-hierarchical (often called a "flat" or "horizontal") management structure. This means that all workers are equal co-managers: nobody has un-recallable decision-making power or authority over another worker. Smaller decisions may be made by individuals, department teams, or committees, but all collective members participate in both major management and governance decisions.
As you can see, the word "cooperative" refers to a specific ownership structure. Cooperatives can be owned by workers, community members, or both.
The word "collective" refers to how members participate in the management structure. Collectives manage worker-owned cooperatives, consumer cooperatives, non-profits, or volunteer activist projects.
cooperative
A cooperative is an organization that is owned and democratically-governed by its members. Each member owns one voting share, and has one vote on major decisions as outlined in the organization's bylaws. Cooperatives generally adhere to the seven principles outlined by the International Cooperative Alliance.
A worker cooperative is a cooperative in which the workers are the only member-owners. This means that each worker owns one voting share, and is able to participate in the governance (and often the management) of the business. Because workers are the only people eligible to become member-owners, outside investors or consumers do not participate in the governance of the cooperative. Some worker cooperatives have elected managers, or managers who are hired by the elected Board of Directors. Some worker cooperatives that are not collectives have a flat management structure at an operational/worker level with no managers, but key decisions made by the Board of Directors.
a farm, business, or other organization that is owned and run jointly by its members, who share the profits or benefits.
New Oxford American Dictionary
a jointly owned enterprise engaging in the production or distribution of goods or the supplying of services, operated by its members for their mutual benefit, typically organized by consumers or farmers.
Random House
wiki
ORIGIN late Middle English (in the sense ‘representing many individuals’): from Old French collectif, -ive or Latin collectivus, from collect- ‘gathered together,’ from the verb colligere
noun
A collective is an organization that is managed without hierarchy.
This means that every member has equal decision-making power. Some decisions may be delegated to individual members or sub-committees, but no one has the special, un-recallable authority usually granted to a manager. The legal structure will specify that all Members are automatically Directors and must accept the responsibilities of Directorshop, or that the organization is managed by Member meetings.
A worker collective is a particular kind of worker cooperative. A worker collective adheres to the same cooperative principles as does a worker cooperative. However, worker collectives also adopt a non-hierarchical (often called a "flat" or "horizontal") management structure. This means that all workers are equal co-managers: nobody has un-recallable decision-making power or authority over another worker. Smaller decisions may be made by individuals, department teams, or committees, but all collective members participate in both major management and governance decisions.
As you can see, the word "cooperative" refers to a specific ownership structure. Cooperatives can be owned by workers, community members, or both.
The word "collective" refers to how members participate in the management structure. Collectives manage worker-owned cooperatives, consumer cooperatives, non-profits, or volunteer activist projects.
cooperative
A cooperative is an organization that is owned and democratically-governed by its members. Each member owns one voting share, and has one vote on major decisions as outlined in the organization's bylaws. Cooperatives generally adhere to the seven principles outlined by the International Cooperative Alliance.
A worker cooperative is a cooperative in which the workers are the only member-owners. This means that each worker owns one voting share, and is able to participate in the governance (and often the management) of the business. Because workers are the only people eligible to become member-owners, outside investors or consumers do not participate in the governance of the cooperative. Some worker cooperatives have elected managers, or managers who are hired by the elected Board of Directors. Some worker cooperatives that are not collectives have a flat management structure at an operational/worker level with no managers, but key decisions made by the Board of Directors.
a farm, business, or other organization that is owned and run jointly by its members, who share the profits or benefits.
New Oxford American Dictionary
a jointly owned enterprise engaging in the production or distribution of goods or the supplying of services, operated by its members for their mutual benefit, typically organized by consumers or farmers.
Random House
wiki
ORIGIN late Middle English (in the sense ‘representing many individuals’): from Old French collectif, -ive or Latin collectivus, from collect- ‘gathered together,’ from the verb colligere
18 March 2012
Letter to my representatives
I know assault and harassment are against the law
How is bullying outside of the laws of harassment and assault?
Why are schools allowing bullies to terrorize children?
What is Washington doing to enforce the current laws and keep the children safe?
How is bullying outside of the laws of harassment and assault?
Why are schools allowing bullies to terrorize children?
What is Washington doing to enforce the current laws and keep the children safe?
15 March 2012
Deep Horoscope
Is it possible you were a spider in a previous life? If so, please call on the abilities you developed back then. You need to create an extra big, super-fine web, metaphorically speaking, so that you can capture all the raw materials you will be needing in the coming weeks and months. If you're not sure whether you are the reincarnation of a spider, then simply imagine you were. Stimulate daydreams in which you visualize yourself as a mover and shaker who's skilled at snagging the resources and help you require.
*
SACRED ADVERTISEMENT
Receptivity is not a passive state. Nor is it a blank emptiness, waiting around for whatever happens to come along. In urging you to cultivate receptivity, I don't mean you should become a lazy do-nothing bereft of goals, reacting blindly to whatever life throws in front of you.
Receptivity is a robust readiness to be surprised and moved, a vigorous intention to be awake to everything you can't control. When you're receptive in the pronoiac style, you have strong ideas and a powerful will and an eagerness to disseminate your unique blessings, but you're also animated by the humble certainty that you have a lot to learn.
*
Free Will
*
SACRED ADVERTISEMENT
Receptivity is not a passive state. Nor is it a blank emptiness, waiting around for whatever happens to come along. In urging you to cultivate receptivity, I don't mean you should become a lazy do-nothing bereft of goals, reacting blindly to whatever life throws in front of you.
Receptivity is a robust readiness to be surprised and moved, a vigorous intention to be awake to everything you can't control. When you're receptive in the pronoiac style, you have strong ideas and a powerful will and an eagerness to disseminate your unique blessings, but you're also animated by the humble certainty that you have a lot to learn.
*
Free Will
13 March 2012
The use of Evolution
I can understand using evolution to explain why we do what we do.
I don't understand it's use in telling us how we are supposed to be.
Or what we should be doing.
Or using it as an excuse for behavior.
What's considered natural isn't always healthy
Evolution is a continuous process
It's still happening
It seems like those who apply it tend to forget basic tenets of evolution
Variation and adaptation.
Origins are not destinations
I don't understand it's use in telling us how we are supposed to be.
Or what we should be doing.
Or using it as an excuse for behavior.
What's considered natural isn't always healthy
Evolution is a continuous process
It's still happening
It seems like those who apply it tend to forget basic tenets of evolution
Variation and adaptation.
Origins are not destinations
History
The past is dead
The past teaches us lessons
Gives us options
And possible outcomes
The past determines nothing
The past does not set our destiny
The past teaches us lessons
Gives us options
And possible outcomes
The past determines nothing
The past does not set our destiny
Liberty
Word of the day
Noun
the state of being free within society from oppressive restrictions imposed by authority on one's way of life.
usu. liberties an instance of this;
a right or privilege, esp. a statutory one.
the state of not being imprisoned or enslaved.
Liberty the personification of liberty as a female figure.
the power or scope to act as one pleases.
Philosophy a person's freedom from control.
Nautical shore leave granted to a sailor.
Freedom
noun
the power or right to act, speak, or think as one wants without hindrance or restraint.
absence of subjection to foreign domination or despotic government.
the state of not being imprisoned or enslaved.
the state of being physically unrestricted and able to move easily.
freedom from the state of not being subject to or affected by (a particular undesirable thing).
the power of self‑determination attributed to the will; the quality of being independent of fate or necessity.
ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French liberte, from Latin libertas, from liber ‘free.’
ORIGIN Old English frēo (adjective), frēon (verb), of Germanic origin; related to Dutch vrij and German frei, from an Indo-European root meaning ‘to love’, shared by friend.
Noun
the state of being free within society from oppressive restrictions imposed by authority on one's way of life.
usu. liberties an instance of this;
a right or privilege, esp. a statutory one.
the state of not being imprisoned or enslaved.
Liberty the personification of liberty as a female figure.
the power or scope to act as one pleases.
Philosophy a person's freedom from control.
Nautical shore leave granted to a sailor.
Freedom
noun
the power or right to act, speak, or think as one wants without hindrance or restraint.
absence of subjection to foreign domination or despotic government.
the state of not being imprisoned or enslaved.
the state of being physically unrestricted and able to move easily.
freedom from the state of not being subject to or affected by (a particular undesirable thing).
the power of self‑determination attributed to the will; the quality of being independent of fate or necessity.
ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French liberte, from Latin libertas, from liber ‘free.’
ORIGIN Old English frēo (adjective), frēon (verb), of Germanic origin; related to Dutch vrij and German frei, from an Indo-European root meaning ‘to love’, shared by friend.
12 March 2012
Virginia declaration of rights
A declaration of rights made by the representatives of the good people of Virginia, assembled in full and free convention; which rights do pertain to them and their posterity, as the basis and foundation of government.
SECTION I. That all men are by nature equally free and independent and have certain inherent rights, of which, when they enter into a state of society, they cannot, by any compact, deprive or divest their posterity; namely, the enjoyment of life and liberty, with the means of acquiring and possessing property, and pursuing and obtaining happiness and safety.
SEC. 2. That all power is vested in, and consequently derived from, the people; that magistrates are their trustees and servants and at all times amenable to them.
SEC. 3. That government is, or ought to be, instituted for the common benefit, protection, and security of the people, nation, or community; of all the various modes and forms of government, that is best which is capable of producing the greatest degree of happiness and safety and is most effectually secured against the danger of maladministration; and that, when any government shall be found inadequate or contrary to these purposes, a majority of the community hath an indubitable, inalienable, and indefeasible right to reform, alter, or abolish it, in such manner as shall be judged most conducive to the public weal.
SEC. 4. That no man, or set of men, are entitled to exclusive or separate emoluments or privileges from the community, but in consideration of public services; which, not being descendible, neither ought the offices of magistrate, legislator, or judge to be hereditary.
SEC. 5. That the legislative and executive powers of the state should be separate and distinct from the judiciary; and that the members of the two first may be restrained from oppression, by feeling and participating the burdens of the people, they should, at fixed periods, be reduced to a private station, return into that body from which they were originally taken, and the vacancies be supplied by frequent, certain, and regular elections, in wh ich all, or any part, of the former members, to be again eligible, or ineligible, as the laws shall direct.
SEC. 6. That elections of members to serve as representatives of the people, in assembly, ought to be free; and that all men, having sufficient evidence of permanent common interest with, and attachment to, the community, have the right of suffrage and cannot be taxed or deprived of their property for public uses without their own consent, or that of their representatives so elected, nor bound by any law to which they have not, in like manner, assented for the public good.
SEC. 7. That all power of suspending laws, or the execution of laws, by any authority, without consent of the representatives of the people, is injurious to their rights and ought not to be exercised.
SEC. 8. That in all capital or criminal prosecutions a man hath a right to demand the cause and nature of his accusation, to be confronted with the accusers and witnesses, to call for evidence in his favor, and to a speedy trial by an impartial jury of twelve men of his vicinage, without whose unanimous consent he cannot be found guilty; nor can he be compelled to give evidence against himself; that no man be deprived of his liberty, except by the law of the land or the judgment of his peers.
SEC. 9. That excessive bail ought not to be required, nor excessive fines imposed, nor cruel and unusual punishments inflicted.
SEC. 10. That general warrants, whereby an officer or messenger may be commanded to search suspected places without evidence of a fact committed, or to seize any person or persons not named, or whose offense is not particularly described and supported by evidence, are grievous and oppressive and ought not to be granted.
SEC. 11. That in controversies respecting property, and in suits between man and man, the ancient trial by jury is preferable to any other and ought to be held sacred.
SEC. 12. That the freedom of the press is one of the great bulwarks of liberty and can never be restrained but by despotic governments.
SEC. 13. That a well-regulated militia, or composed of the body of the people, trained to arms, is the proper, natural, and safe defense of a free state; that standing armies, in time of peace, should be avoided as dangerous to liberty; and that in all cases the military should be under strict subordination to, and governed by, the civil power.
SEC. 14. That the people have a right to uniform government; and, therefore, that no government separate from or independent of the government of Virginia ought to be erected or established within the limits thereof.
SEC. 15. That no free government, or the blessings of liberty, can be preserved to any people, but by a firm adherence to justice, moderation, temperance, frugality, and virtue, and by frequent recurrence to fundamental principles.
SEC. 16. That religion, or the duty which we owe to our Creator, and the manner of discharging it, can be directed only by reason and conviction, not by force or violence; and therefore all men are equally entitled to the free exercise of religion, according to the dictates of conscience; and that it is the mutual duty of all to practice Christian forbearance, love, and charity toward each other.
[On May 15, 1776, the Virginia Convention "resolved unanimously that the delegates appointed to represent this colony in General Congress be instructed to propose to that respectable body to declare the United Colonies free and independent states . . . [and] that a committee be appointed to prepare a DECLARATION OF RIGHTS and . . . plan of government." R. H. Lee's resolution of June 7, 1776, implemented the first of these resolutions and precipitated the appointment of the committee to draw up the Declaration of Independence; the second proposal was carried out by the framing of Virginia's first state constitution, of which this declaration was an integral part. It is notable for containing an authoritative definition of the term militia in Section 13.
As passed, the Virginia Declaration was largely the work of George Mason; the committee and the Convention made some verbal changes and added Sections 10 and 14. This declaration served as a model for bills of rights in several other state constitutions and was a source of the French Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen, though its degree of influence upon the latter document is a highly controversial question. The reference to "property" in Section I may be compared with the use of the word by John Locke, its omission by Thomas Jefferson from the second paragraph of the Declaration of Independence, and its use in the Constitution, Amendments V and XIV.
George Mason (1725-92), one of Virginia's wealthiest planters, a neighbor and friend of Washington, is best remembered for his part in drafting the Virginia constitution of 1776. In 1787 he was a leader in the Federal Convention. Refusing to sign the completed document, Mason, along with Patrick Henry and others, opposed its ratification in the Virginia Convention of 1788.]
SECTION I. That all men are by nature equally free and independent and have certain inherent rights, of which, when they enter into a state of society, they cannot, by any compact, deprive or divest their posterity; namely, the enjoyment of life and liberty, with the means of acquiring and possessing property, and pursuing and obtaining happiness and safety.
SEC. 2. That all power is vested in, and consequently derived from, the people; that magistrates are their trustees and servants and at all times amenable to them.
SEC. 3. That government is, or ought to be, instituted for the common benefit, protection, and security of the people, nation, or community; of all the various modes and forms of government, that is best which is capable of producing the greatest degree of happiness and safety and is most effectually secured against the danger of maladministration; and that, when any government shall be found inadequate or contrary to these purposes, a majority of the community hath an indubitable, inalienable, and indefeasible right to reform, alter, or abolish it, in such manner as shall be judged most conducive to the public weal.
SEC. 4. That no man, or set of men, are entitled to exclusive or separate emoluments or privileges from the community, but in consideration of public services; which, not being descendible, neither ought the offices of magistrate, legislator, or judge to be hereditary.
SEC. 5. That the legislative and executive powers of the state should be separate and distinct from the judiciary; and that the members of the two first may be restrained from oppression, by feeling and participating the burdens of the people, they should, at fixed periods, be reduced to a private station, return into that body from which they were originally taken, and the vacancies be supplied by frequent, certain, and regular elections, in wh ich all, or any part, of the former members, to be again eligible, or ineligible, as the laws shall direct.
SEC. 6. That elections of members to serve as representatives of the people, in assembly, ought to be free; and that all men, having sufficient evidence of permanent common interest with, and attachment to, the community, have the right of suffrage and cannot be taxed or deprived of their property for public uses without their own consent, or that of their representatives so elected, nor bound by any law to which they have not, in like manner, assented for the public good.
SEC. 7. That all power of suspending laws, or the execution of laws, by any authority, without consent of the representatives of the people, is injurious to their rights and ought not to be exercised.
SEC. 8. That in all capital or criminal prosecutions a man hath a right to demand the cause and nature of his accusation, to be confronted with the accusers and witnesses, to call for evidence in his favor, and to a speedy trial by an impartial jury of twelve men of his vicinage, without whose unanimous consent he cannot be found guilty; nor can he be compelled to give evidence against himself; that no man be deprived of his liberty, except by the law of the land or the judgment of his peers.
SEC. 9. That excessive bail ought not to be required, nor excessive fines imposed, nor cruel and unusual punishments inflicted.
SEC. 10. That general warrants, whereby an officer or messenger may be commanded to search suspected places without evidence of a fact committed, or to seize any person or persons not named, or whose offense is not particularly described and supported by evidence, are grievous and oppressive and ought not to be granted.
SEC. 11. That in controversies respecting property, and in suits between man and man, the ancient trial by jury is preferable to any other and ought to be held sacred.
SEC. 12. That the freedom of the press is one of the great bulwarks of liberty and can never be restrained but by despotic governments.
SEC. 13. That a well-regulated militia, or composed of the body of the people, trained to arms, is the proper, natural, and safe defense of a free state; that standing armies, in time of peace, should be avoided as dangerous to liberty; and that in all cases the military should be under strict subordination to, and governed by, the civil power.
SEC. 14. That the people have a right to uniform government; and, therefore, that no government separate from or independent of the government of Virginia ought to be erected or established within the limits thereof.
SEC. 15. That no free government, or the blessings of liberty, can be preserved to any people, but by a firm adherence to justice, moderation, temperance, frugality, and virtue, and by frequent recurrence to fundamental principles.
SEC. 16. That religion, or the duty which we owe to our Creator, and the manner of discharging it, can be directed only by reason and conviction, not by force or violence; and therefore all men are equally entitled to the free exercise of religion, according to the dictates of conscience; and that it is the mutual duty of all to practice Christian forbearance, love, and charity toward each other.
[On May 15, 1776, the Virginia Convention "resolved unanimously that the delegates appointed to represent this colony in General Congress be instructed to propose to that respectable body to declare the United Colonies free and independent states . . . [and] that a committee be appointed to prepare a DECLARATION OF RIGHTS and . . . plan of government." R. H. Lee's resolution of June 7, 1776, implemented the first of these resolutions and precipitated the appointment of the committee to draw up the Declaration of Independence; the second proposal was carried out by the framing of Virginia's first state constitution, of which this declaration was an integral part. It is notable for containing an authoritative definition of the term militia in Section 13.
As passed, the Virginia Declaration was largely the work of George Mason; the committee and the Convention made some verbal changes and added Sections 10 and 14. This declaration served as a model for bills of rights in several other state constitutions and was a source of the French Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen, though its degree of influence upon the latter document is a highly controversial question. The reference to "property" in Section I may be compared with the use of the word by John Locke, its omission by Thomas Jefferson from the second paragraph of the Declaration of Independence, and its use in the Constitution, Amendments V and XIV.
George Mason (1725-92), one of Virginia's wealthiest planters, a neighbor and friend of Washington, is best remembered for his part in drafting the Virginia constitution of 1776. In 1787 he was a leader in the Federal Convention. Refusing to sign the completed document, Mason, along with Patrick Henry and others, opposed its ratification in the Virginia Convention of 1788.]
08 March 2012
Deep Horoscope
In the coming weeks, the activity going on inside your mind and heart will be especially intense and influential -- even if you don't explicitly express it. When you speak your thoughts and feelings out loud, they will have unusual power to change people's minds and rearrange their moods. When you keep your thoughts and feelings to yourself, they will still leak all over everything, bending and shaping the energy field around you. That's why I urge you to take extra care as you manage what's going on within you. Make sure the effect you're having is the effect you want to have.
Would you like to hear more about the hidden factors influencing your life? Do you want to uncover the secrets you've been hiding even from yourself?
*
SACRED ADVERTISEMENT
Robert Anton Wilson defined information as data and ideas that are new to you. If it's something you already know, then it's propaganda or dogma, not information.
Terence McKenna had a similar view. He used the terms "information" and "novelty" interchangeably. If you're not surprised, he said, if your curiosity isn't piqued, then the messages streaming your way don't qualify as information.
*
Free Will
Would you like to hear more about the hidden factors influencing your life? Do you want to uncover the secrets you've been hiding even from yourself?
*
SACRED ADVERTISEMENT
Robert Anton Wilson defined information as data and ideas that are new to you. If it's something you already know, then it's propaganda or dogma, not information.
Terence McKenna had a similar view. He used the terms "information" and "novelty" interchangeably. If you're not surprised, he said, if your curiosity isn't piqued, then the messages streaming your way don't qualify as information.
*
Free Will
07 March 2012
Live Die Kill
What do you live for
Love
What would you die for
Freedom
What would you kill for
Defense of others
Love
What would you die for
Freedom
What would you kill for
Defense of others
No hate
I don't hate anyone
Hate and anger are like a cancer
hurting the person who feels it the most
There are people I don't understand
People I don't want to talk to
People I don't want to be around
No hate.
Hate and anger are like a cancer
hurting the person who feels it the most
There are people I don't understand
People I don't want to talk to
People I don't want to be around
No hate.
03 March 2012
Hypothesis
word of the day
noun
a supposition or proposed explanation made on the basis of limited evidence as a starting point for further investigation
• Philosophy a proposition made as a basis for reasoning, without any assumption of its truth.
New Oxford American Dictionary
a proposition, or set of propositions, set forth as an explanation for the occurrence of some specified group of phenomena, either asserted merely as a provisional conjecture to guide investigation (working hypothesis) or accepted as highly probable in the light of established facts.
a proposition assumed as a premise in an argument.
the antecedent of a conditional proposition.
a mere assumption or guess.
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2012.
A hypothesis is a tentative statement that proposes a possible explanation to some phenomenon or event. A useful hypothesis is a testable statement which may include a prediction. A hypotheses should not be confused with a theory. Theories are general explanations based on a large amount of data. For example, the theory of evolution applies to all living things and is based on wide range of observations. However, there are many things about evolution that are not fully understood such as gaps in the fossil record. Many hypotheses have been proposed and tested.
Writing hypotheses
Hypothesis
k12 explanation
ORIGIN late 16th cent.: via late Latin from Greek hupothesis ‘foundation’, from hupo ‘under’ + thesis ‘placing’.
noun
a supposition or proposed explanation made on the basis of limited evidence as a starting point for further investigation
• Philosophy a proposition made as a basis for reasoning, without any assumption of its truth.
New Oxford American Dictionary
a proposition, or set of propositions, set forth as an explanation for the occurrence of some specified group of phenomena, either asserted merely as a provisional conjecture to guide investigation (working hypothesis) or accepted as highly probable in the light of established facts.
a proposition assumed as a premise in an argument.
the antecedent of a conditional proposition.
a mere assumption or guess.
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2012.
A hypothesis is a tentative statement that proposes a possible explanation to some phenomenon or event. A useful hypothesis is a testable statement which may include a prediction. A hypotheses should not be confused with a theory. Theories are general explanations based on a large amount of data. For example, the theory of evolution applies to all living things and is based on wide range of observations. However, there are many things about evolution that are not fully understood such as gaps in the fossil record. Many hypotheses have been proposed and tested.
Writing hypotheses
Hypothesis
k12 explanation
ORIGIN late 16th cent.: via late Latin from Greek hupothesis ‘foundation’, from hupo ‘under’ + thesis ‘placing’.
Gentle
2 Timothy 2
23 Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels.
And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful.
Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will.
Also
Ephesians 4
1 As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.
2 Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.
3 Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.
Philippians 4
4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!
5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.
6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
Titus 3
1 Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good,
2 to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone.
9 But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the law, because these are unprofitable and useless.
10 Warn a divisive person once, and then warn them a second time. After that, have nothing to do with them.
11 You may be sure that such people are warped and sinful; they are self-condemned.
and
I Peter 3
8 Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble.
9 Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.
10 For,
“Whoever would love life
and see good days
must keep their tongue from evil
and their lips from deceitful speech.
11 They must turn from evil and do good;
they must seek peace and pursue it.
12 For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous
and his ears are attentive to their prayer,
but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”
13 Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good?
14 But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.”
15 But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,
16 keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.
17 For it is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.
02 March 2012
Honest moment
People might find it rude to interrupt...
If I don't ask questions, or respond during a conversation
it usually means I've stopped listening.
Not that I'm being rude when I interrupt...though, yes, it is rude.
I have to be engaged to receive information.
If I don't ask questions, or respond during a conversation
it usually means I've stopped listening.
Not that I'm being rude when I interrupt...though, yes, it is rude.
I have to be engaged to receive information.
Deep thought
Joseph Campbell
"My definition of a devil is a god who has not been recognized. That is to say, it is a power in you to which you have not given expression, and you push it back. And then, like all repressed energy, it builds up and becomes completely dangerous to the position you’re trying to hold."
Joseph Campbell, An Open Life, p.28-29
"My definition of a devil is a god who has not been recognized. That is to say, it is a power in you to which you have not given expression, and you push it back. And then, like all repressed energy, it builds up and becomes completely dangerous to the position you’re trying to hold."
Joseph Campbell, An Open Life, p.28-29
Deep Thought
“When it comes to the teaching of the master, you [must] go extremely critical,” he says.
“You’ve got to be doubting, doubting, questioning, questioning, questioning.”
In other words, don’t forget to use your brain.
“God has given intellect to human being[s], right. For what? To think.”
How Spiritual Gurus Exert Political Influence in India | PRI's The World
“You’ve got to be doubting, doubting, questioning, questioning, questioning.”
In other words, don’t forget to use your brain.
“God has given intellect to human being[s], right. For what? To think.”
How Spiritual Gurus Exert Political Influence in India | PRI's The World
The 10 Signs of Intellectual Honesty
October 20th, 2008 by Mike Gene
When it comes to just about any topic, it seems as if the public discourse on the internet is dominated by rhetoric and propaganda. People are either selling products or ideology. In fact, just because someone may come across as calm and knowledgeable does not mean you should let your guard down and trust what they say. What you need to look for is a track record of intellectual honesty. Let me therefore propose 10 signs of intellectual honesty.
1. Do not overstate the power of your argument.
One’s sense of conviction should be in proportion to the level of clear evidence assessable by most. If someone portrays their opponents as being either stupid or dishonest for disagreeing, intellectual dishonesty is probably in play. Intellectual honesty is most often associated with humility, not arrogance.
2. Show a willingness to publicly acknowledge that reasonable alternative viewpoints exist.
The alternative views do not have to be treated as equally valid or powerful, but rarely is it the case that one and only one viewpoint has a complete monopoly on reason and evidence.
3. Be willing to publicly acknowledge and question one’s own assumptions and biases.
All of us rely on assumptions when applying our world view to make sense of the data about the world. And all of us bring various biases to the table.
4. Be willing to publicly acknowledge where your argument is weak.
Almost all arguments have weak spots, but those who are trying to sell an ideology will have great difficulty with this point and would rather obscure or downplay any weak points.
5. Be willing to publicly acknowledge when you are wrong.
Those selling an ideology likewise have great difficulty admitting to being wrong, as this undercuts the rhetoric and image that is being sold. You get small points for admitting to being wrong on trivial matters and big points for admitting to being wrong on substantive points. You lose big points for failing to admit being wrong on something trivial.
6. Demonstrate consistency.
A clear sign of intellectual dishonesty is when someone extensively relies on double standards. Typically, an excessively high standard is applied to the perceived opponent(s), while a very low standard is applied to the ideologues’ allies.
7. Address the argument instead of attacking the person making the argument.
Ad hominem arguments are a clear sign of intellectual dishonesty. However, often times, the dishonesty is more subtle. For example, someone might make a token effort at debunking an argument and then turn significant attention to the person making the argument, relying on stereotypes, guilt-by-association, and innocent-sounding gotcha questions.
8. When addressing an argument, do not misrepresent it.
A common tactic of the intellectually dishonest is to portray their opponent’s argument in straw man terms. In politics, this is called spin. Typically, such tactics eschew quoting the person in context, but instead rely heavily on out-of-context quotes, paraphrasing and impression. When addressing an argument, one should shows signs of having made a serious effort to first understand the argument and then accurately represent it in its strongest form.
9. Show a commitment to critical thinking.
‘Nuff said.
10. Be willing to publicly acknowledge when a point or criticism is good.
If someone is unable or unwilling to admit when their opponent raises a good point or makes a good criticism, it demonstrates an unwillingness to participate in the give-and-take that characterizes an honest exchange.
While no one is perfect, and even those who strive for intellectual honesty can have a bad day, simply be on the look out for how many and how often these criteria apply to someone. In the arena of public discourse, it is not intelligence or knowledge that matters most – it is whether you can trust the intelligence or knowledge of another. After all, intelligence and knowledge can sometimes be the best tools of an intellectually dishonest approach.
Originally posted November 2008
On intellectual honesty
Honesty in the acquisition, analysis, and transmission of ideas.
debate tactics This article is fishy. I'll leave it up to the reader to find the dishonesty.
Intellectual honesty is an applied method of problem solving in academia, characterized by an unbiased, honest attitude, which can be demonstrated in a number of different ways:
One's personal beliefs do not interfere with the pursuit of truth;
Relevant facts and information are not purposefully omitted even when such things may contradict one's hypothesis;
Facts are presented in an unbiased manner, and not twisted to give misleading impressions or to support one view over another;
References are acknowledged where possible, and plagiarism is avoided
When it comes to just about any topic, it seems as if the public discourse on the internet is dominated by rhetoric and propaganda. People are either selling products or ideology. In fact, just because someone may come across as calm and knowledgeable does not mean you should let your guard down and trust what they say. What you need to look for is a track record of intellectual honesty. Let me therefore propose 10 signs of intellectual honesty.
1. Do not overstate the power of your argument.
One’s sense of conviction should be in proportion to the level of clear evidence assessable by most. If someone portrays their opponents as being either stupid or dishonest for disagreeing, intellectual dishonesty is probably in play. Intellectual honesty is most often associated with humility, not arrogance.
2. Show a willingness to publicly acknowledge that reasonable alternative viewpoints exist.
The alternative views do not have to be treated as equally valid or powerful, but rarely is it the case that one and only one viewpoint has a complete monopoly on reason and evidence.
3. Be willing to publicly acknowledge and question one’s own assumptions and biases.
All of us rely on assumptions when applying our world view to make sense of the data about the world. And all of us bring various biases to the table.
4. Be willing to publicly acknowledge where your argument is weak.
Almost all arguments have weak spots, but those who are trying to sell an ideology will have great difficulty with this point and would rather obscure or downplay any weak points.
5. Be willing to publicly acknowledge when you are wrong.
Those selling an ideology likewise have great difficulty admitting to being wrong, as this undercuts the rhetoric and image that is being sold. You get small points for admitting to being wrong on trivial matters and big points for admitting to being wrong on substantive points. You lose big points for failing to admit being wrong on something trivial.
6. Demonstrate consistency.
A clear sign of intellectual dishonesty is when someone extensively relies on double standards. Typically, an excessively high standard is applied to the perceived opponent(s), while a very low standard is applied to the ideologues’ allies.
7. Address the argument instead of attacking the person making the argument.
Ad hominem arguments are a clear sign of intellectual dishonesty. However, often times, the dishonesty is more subtle. For example, someone might make a token effort at debunking an argument and then turn significant attention to the person making the argument, relying on stereotypes, guilt-by-association, and innocent-sounding gotcha questions.
8. When addressing an argument, do not misrepresent it.
A common tactic of the intellectually dishonest is to portray their opponent’s argument in straw man terms. In politics, this is called spin. Typically, such tactics eschew quoting the person in context, but instead rely heavily on out-of-context quotes, paraphrasing and impression. When addressing an argument, one should shows signs of having made a serious effort to first understand the argument and then accurately represent it in its strongest form.
9. Show a commitment to critical thinking.
‘Nuff said.
10. Be willing to publicly acknowledge when a point or criticism is good.
If someone is unable or unwilling to admit when their opponent raises a good point or makes a good criticism, it demonstrates an unwillingness to participate in the give-and-take that characterizes an honest exchange.
While no one is perfect, and even those who strive for intellectual honesty can have a bad day, simply be on the look out for how many and how often these criteria apply to someone. In the arena of public discourse, it is not intelligence or knowledge that matters most – it is whether you can trust the intelligence or knowledge of another. After all, intelligence and knowledge can sometimes be the best tools of an intellectually dishonest approach.
Originally posted November 2008
On intellectual honesty
Honesty in the acquisition, analysis, and transmission of ideas.
debate tactics This article is fishy. I'll leave it up to the reader to find the dishonesty.
Intellectual honesty is an applied method of problem solving in academia, characterized by an unbiased, honest attitude, which can be demonstrated in a number of different ways:
One's personal beliefs do not interfere with the pursuit of truth;
Relevant facts and information are not purposefully omitted even when such things may contradict one's hypothesis;
Facts are presented in an unbiased manner, and not twisted to give misleading impressions or to support one view over another;
References are acknowledged where possible, and plagiarism is avoided
01 March 2012
Deep Horoscope
In the cult blaxploitation film The Human Tornado, the main character Dolemite brags about his prowess. "I chained down thunder and handcuffed lightning!" he raves. "I used an earthquake to mix my milkshake! I eat an avalanche when I want ice cream! I punched a hurricane and made it a breeze! I swallowed an iceberg and didn’t freeze!" This is the way I want to hear you talk in the coming week, Gemini. Given the current astrological configurations, you have every right to. Furthermore, I think it'll be healthy for you.
You can learn to be lucky. It's not a mystical force you're born with, but a habit you can develop. How? For starters, be open to new experiences, trust your gut wisdom, expect good fortune, see the bright side of challenging events, and master the art of maximizing serendipitous opportunities.
*
SACRED ADVERTISEMENT
Your imagination may be the best gift you've been given. It's the source of your creative power. If there's a particular experience or object you want to bring into your life, the first thing you've got to do is visualize it. The practical actions you take to manifest your dreams always refer back to the pictures in your mind's eye. And so every goal you fulfill, every quest you carry out, begins as an inner vision. Your imagination is the engine of your destiny. It's the catalyst with which you design your future. Do you know where it comes from? Do you have any idea how powerful it is?
Free Will
You can learn to be lucky. It's not a mystical force you're born with, but a habit you can develop. How? For starters, be open to new experiences, trust your gut wisdom, expect good fortune, see the bright side of challenging events, and master the art of maximizing serendipitous opportunities.
*
SACRED ADVERTISEMENT
Your imagination may be the best gift you've been given. It's the source of your creative power. If there's a particular experience or object you want to bring into your life, the first thing you've got to do is visualize it. The practical actions you take to manifest your dreams always refer back to the pictures in your mind's eye. And so every goal you fulfill, every quest you carry out, begins as an inner vision. Your imagination is the engine of your destiny. It's the catalyst with which you design your future. Do you know where it comes from? Do you have any idea how powerful it is?
Free Will
Deep Thought
It is a good morning exercise for a research scientist to discard a pet hypothesis every day before breakfast. It keeps him young.
-Lorenz, Konrad
originally posted March 2011
-Lorenz, Konrad
originally posted March 2011
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