Random Thoughts and Readings from 29 Jan 2016

Reminder: Most of the comments below are links to stories being commented upon. I urge you to read the links for background to my commentary.

As we close out the month and the week, I suppose I should post my passing observations and commentary on the articles, etc., which have caught my attention of late. I hope you find them informative, if not interesting, educational, thought-provoking and possibly entertaining. With that we once forth venture into the breach:

While this video commentary is directed at conservatives and Republicans, I think its message should really be listened to by all Americans. Whatever our differences, we should always remember that in the end we are all on the same team ... or at least I would hope so.

This former Marine's rebuke to Michelle Obama speaks to a core issue about race and being an American. Either we rise to the level of being Americans or even just humans, or we will find outselves mired in divisiveness and conflict. Consider that for awhile.

Like most apocalyptic forecasts, it seems another one passed this week without happening. You want to know why I am a skeptic about all the hue and cry about the impending disasters from climate change (or whatever is the appropriate term for it these days), this is why. Folks, the science is not settled ... in fact it harbors too many assumptions and leaves out too many variables to be dependable.

An essay in defense of President Obama and John Kerry's handling of relations with Iran, especially after the seizure of the two patrol boats and their release. A thought-provoking article, but not necessarily one that I find completes the circle. I find it leaves other issues unanswered.

Another commentary on what the US owes - if anything - to Taiwan and its Asian allies. This is an issue that we need to consider as a people, because it most likely will be a point where we will have to choose whether conflict is in our interet or not.

I find it unfortunate that Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton felt it necessary to express himself this way. Undoubtedly, on some quarters, he indeed is intimidating - if not scary and frightening - but he neither scares nor intimidates me ... and I would hope that would be the case for most fans of American football. He is, without a doubt, a very talented athlete and leader and that is what we should be celebrating.

I almost led with this item: Alas and alack, an icon will be built no more. Sigh ... and ever since I was a teen-ager I wanted one ... you know they are virtually indestructible.

The sad thing is the cartoon probably has it right. Cursive is our new hieroplyphics. I have to admit my own penmanship is atrocious and my signature is illegible ... but I can still read it.

Interesting analysis of the the electorate in 2016 ... and trying to deduce where the "missing white" vote which apparently sat out earlier elections went and whether it will reemerge this cycle.

Interesting analysis of the 2016 election prospects from a different point of view ... sort of a qualitative assessment which - if it is correct - does not bode well for the Democrats and indicates the Republicans have the best chance at winning the White House - regardless of who their candidates are.

This is a view on the Russian perspective and why it is somewhat scary ... for many reasons.

This is a rather longish commentary on how the US can avoid going to war with the Russians. The question is whether following this proscription really is in the best interest of the US and the West.

This is one of those economic indicators that no one ever talks about but actually truly reflects the status and future of the world economy (as well as national economies) ... Folks, the outlook is not good ... but that doesn't surprise me in and of the least.

This is a good article that points out the problem with how we view many of our political leaders these days. We expect a president to be able to do far more to solve problems than one person can do without becoming an authoritarian dictator. Granted, a large chunk of people in any country are comfortable with that ... and that is scary

A little backgrounder and explainer on how the Iowa caucuses came to be and how they work ... just in case you are interested.

I happen to agree with the premise here espoused by Victor Hanson ... I often do ... but I think it is wrong if not illegal to try to strip Gen. Patreaus of a star.

To me, in my humble opinion, the question of Ted Cruz's citizenship ranks up there with questions of Obama's or McCain's ... which in other words ... it is a non-issue with me ... but then opponents will stoop to anything to discredit or disqualify other candidates.

I have made this case for years: Standing on principle is good, but if you oppose something you need to have a replacement, a solution, something to hang on to while you make the change.

This commentary is focused on changes in the military, but it really makes the point about all human activities and innovation and changes at all levels and activities in our world ... The Prince's advisor was right.

While this author obviously supports Planned Parenthood, she makes a good point how the Houston grand jury's decision to indict two undercover journalists on somewhat sketchy and technical charges should be sending a chill of self-censorship thought the field of investigative journalism.

When you are considering the PPH indictments in Texas, you might also want to consider these points ... which are valid, in my humble opinion.

Interesting that this should be brought up ... as it is a point that I have often made ... of course the question is how relevant is the context of the Treaty of Westphalia in today's environment and does it possibly hold some key to peace in the Middle East.

Probably - in a more realistic world - Sen. McCain would be correct. I am just not sure the American people have the stomach for it with our current generational outlook. It was easier in the 1950s and 1960s when there really was a bear to be watching for.

Boy, is the US Navy being very careful not to offend the Iranians these days ... either that or they are able to discern whether drones actually pose a threat or not ... or maybe it didn't show up on radar ... and that prospect is scary

The funny thing about this story is that it ignores the truth that slavery was common, if not rampant, among the Native American tribes themselves. So we are to condemn European settlers for allowing the same practice. I really have a problem with that.

Rut-RO! The WaPo rips apart Bernie Sanders campaign promises and platform ... not good for the Bern

This is how the rest of the world is being informed about the foreign policy platforms of some of the leading candidates for president (of both parties). Note that the Voice of America is the official US government outlet.

Next to last, but not least, is this report from the Boston Globe on Thursday's GOP debate (without Trump) ... Having sat through both rounds, I found it probably the most accurate account so far.

I have seen this progressive meme posted in several place ... I offer this as a its counter point ... remember folks ... there is no free lunch ... no matter how much you want to believe there can be one.

Random Thoughts for Jan 27, 2016

Reminder: Most of the comments below are links to stories being commented upon. I urge you to read the links for background to my commentary.

 

So far so good, said the man who jumped off the Observation Deck of the Empire State Building as he passed each floor. Once more, here are some random thoughts on the news of the day and other events.

Random Thought #1: If Donald Trump doesn’t participate in the Fox News Republican Presidential Primary Candidate Debate Thursday night, my personal opinion of him will ratchet down several notches. Why? Because a president has to be willing to go up against hostile reporters and audiences – if not leaders of other countries – and hold his own against their biases and prejudices. A leader who is not willing to do that demeans himself and not those who he seeks to minimize. Political leaders are going to face hostility from a host of fronts, and be asked unfair and biased questions at every turn. It is how they face those challenges are the mark of how they will lead. Nuff said on that topic.

This is an interesting take - which I find considerable to agree with - on the angst between the political "establishment" and the populist revolt that seems to be shaking the political process on both sides of the political aisle. It is quite thought provoking in my humble opinion and I sincerely encourage you to read this article.

Victor Hanson strikes again. I really like his perspective on most issues and so I commend one of his latest efforts on US policies. TR was right.

There is a certain amount of truth to this analysis of recent polling data.  And the sad thing is that most Americans are feeling a disconnect between them and their elected representatives. I don't know if that is a product of the 24-hour news cycle, or the social media or politicians putting careers ahead of the integrity of doing public service.  But the option is scary, as more people see turning to active militant resistance - whether it racial or political or economic – as the solution and that is getting worrisome.

On another front, just because it seems at the moment to be not likely, or even improbable, not prepareing for this contingency really is malfeasance on the part of American citizens ... not just the government, not just the military, but the rest of us smucks who should realize that it can happen and to be prepared will be cheaper than not being prepared.

A very valid point here about the reasons why we fight ... unfortunately, I don't see it going away anytime soon. Something about humans being humans in my book.

Another story with a very valid point of view ... but it also points out that unless human nature changes (which it won't, in my humble opinion) this what we are left with. If you disagree with me, then you are an evil vile person.

Another essay by Victor Hanson ... this one on the new segregation that seems to be in vogue right now ... we are deliberating separating ourselves in to racial enclaves in order to make some people feel safe or to meet some arbitrary standard of how people should be distributed in the society's scheme of things. I agree that if we keep going this way instead of assimilating and amalgamating into one group - humans or Americans, take your pick - then the end result is going to be catastrophic.

Thomas Sowell on how we seem fixated on finding villians for all that beset us so that we can be victims with grievances that can demand that we are entitled to reparations of some sort in compensation for whatever it was the villians did to us ... or we perceive they did to us ... it doesn't matter whether anybody really did, just that it is perceived that way.

A slight digression here on why barns used to almost always be red. It explains why the red paint used to paint barns was so cheap ... called the law of supply and demand ... which is why barns were painted red ... get it: Red paint was the cheapest paint farmers could find.

This author is correct ... and it is sad ... but the reason for the populist "revolt" that seems to be prevelant this election cycle is that people really are getting tired of being looked down on and treated with condescenion by our various elites, whether it political, social, economic, media, academic ... or whatever. Sooner or later, the "underclass" will get pissed off ... have we reached that point yet?

This seems to be the next medical catastrophe that we have to ru‌n in circles, scream and shout in panic (to use the phrase Pappy taught me). Yes, it seems that this disease is coming to America (and at least one report says it already is here) but I don't think panic in is the orders for the day.

Interesting backgrounder on the term Nazi, and about labels in general. Thought provoking.

This is a type of story that I find quite distasteful. If someone is your political opponent then let's rain on their parade by pointing out that their father or grandfather or some ancester did something that you find objectionable today. All the more to discredit them because you don't like their political views. In short, this is crap, but I see the progressives keep trotting this bovine scatalogy out ... forgetting that some of their heroes' parents are guilty of the same sins.

This scathing commentary by a Canadian across the border from Detroit/Flint makes a very valid point that we often don't want to face: Our governments suck at doing their basic jobs.

This is really going to stir the pot, but hopefully the Oregon standoff will end peacefully, without any more bloodshed. We don't know what went down out there, so speculation is fruitless.

With the arrest of the leadership of the Oregon occupiers, the leadership shifts. Maybe they will withdraw peacefully ... I hope that local, state and federal authorities let them, without retribution, because that will only fan the flame of dissent.

A view from the BBC reporters of the Oregon occupation and arrests.

A YouTube video worth watching from one of the people with those arrested by state and federal authorities. I hope people heed his pleas.

A somewhat less balanced report, but still ... its does let alternative reports have some airing.

A very good dissertation on how free markets work and how government price and wage controls serve to distort the market and create problems. Worth considering.

This writer makes the case why Bernie Sanders would make a very bad president ... I won't argue with him ... unfortunately, he apparently thinks Hillary Clinton would be a better option ... and he loses me there.

An analysis of the Trump candidacy and what it supposedly means. It is worth reading.

Another story about Trump and his supporters, which harks back to an article above that talks about framing those who disagree with you as evil and vile people ... which isn't really true, but it is the way it is being put out there.

The indictment of the undercover journalists who filmed Planned Parenthood executives discussing providing fetal body parts from abortions on what really are technical charges should, and probably will, send a chill of self-censorship through the entire journalistic community that occasionally uses undercover methods to get their story. While the grand jury refused to indict the PPH leaders, I am not sure that absolves them from the moral issue, which as I see it is needed to resolve the legal issue and that is answering exactly when do we recognize the start of a human life and when does that lifeform merit the full protection of the law.

While supporters of PPH trumpet that this absolves the organization, I am reminded of the reaction to the no-bill given to Darryl Wilson in Ferguson, Mo. I guess it all matters on how  you want to view the situation.

The New York Times editorially sees the decision to indict the filmmakers as a vindication of PPH ... I think that is a bit of a stretch, both legally and morally.

The filmmaker offers this defense of his actions ... and points out the legal case if far from over, nor is the political case, which is separate from the legal case, regardless of how various opinion makers and leaders want to couch the situation.

Another counterpoint to the articles celebrating the absolut‭ion or vindication of PPH by pointing out the legal case is far from over.

And lastly for tonight, an article pointing out the economic realities of rising wages ... you make not like this explanation, but it really is the cold hard truth ... and that is how it should be, in my humble opinion.

Random Thoughts and readings for Jan 26, 2016

Reminder: Most of the comments below are links to stories being commented upon. I urge you to read the links for background to my commentary.

Once more we venture forth … the first effort with this new software seemingly a success.

I hope you find these readings, essays and articles interesting and informative. … and entertaining as well. As usual, you are welcome to disagree with this old news editor’s commentary and post your comments on the appropriate venue.

 

This is the replacement for the venerable HMMWV or Humvee or Hummer ... which was the replacement for the even more venerable Jeep or Quarter-Ton Truck. A quarter-ton truck this monster isn't but I suppose it gets the job done.

According to this HuffPo, white folks don't care enough about diversity. I suppose that is right ... because to me, and I know I am a cranky, old semi-conservative but mostly libertarian, the important thing is not the color of the child in the classroom or their ethnic heritage but the quality of the education they are getting about being an American (I know, I am bad) and learning basic competencies in a host of subjects that help them survive in our Brave New World of the 21st Century, while remembering the lessons of humankind from the hundreds of millenia that preceded us.

A case for Medicare for all (as proposed by Bernie Sanders) ... well, I suppose it is a good idea if individual rights and liberties are not all that important to you and you think that everybody is dumber than a rock and needs Bernie and his army to tell you what decisions to make (and no, you will not be allowed to make any mistakes). The last point made would be moot because Medicare would determine the price of everything and the providers would provide on Medicare's terms ... or they would be prosecuted ...

An interesting article on an apparent effort on the part of the UN to get everyone everywhere to recognize the right to gay marriages. Hey, that may fly in the liberal democracies of the West, but I suspect for the vast majority of other cultures this is liable to get spit back in their face. But it is another example of LBGT militias trying to force an acceptance to their behavior, regardless of cultural prohibitions.

An interesting glimpse into the future that really is a reflection of the past. Just think how far flying above the ground has come in the last 110+ years. I wonder how far it will take us?

I know how everybody (well, all my progressive peeps) like to wave the Scandanavian countries (particularly Sweden) on how the Socia-Democratic (aka demi-socialism) works, but according to this analysis they are wrong. Interesting and thought provoking article.

This is an example of the Obama Administration's leadership continues an old Army tradition of just doing stupid things.

This story is an illustration of the power of expectations ... and probably its pitfalls. Back in the day, so to speak, a starter house was 900 to 1000 square feet ... and you were happy with that much space after living in cramped apartments and dorm rooms.

Gee, you wonder why so people seem to think you have to follow the law ... particularly immigration laws, rules and regulations ... cause you can get away with it and fewer and fewer prosecutions are being made. Well, we will see how well the open borders mantra plays out. It seems the Germans, particularly, and most of Europe is having second doubts about it.

This is what happens when you don't have freedom of the press, assembly, religion or conscience. Unfortunately, there are those in the US - on both sides of the political spectrum - who would make just the same threats in the name of political correctness

Assuming you can get past the WSJ paywall here, this article points out why the current "it was the hottest year ever" mantra is a snow job ... literally.

I feel sorry for this young female Democrat ... and I think she is wrong. Oh, she is most definitely correct in her assessments about why she can't vote for Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders (or even O'Malley), but she is wrong in not voting and not participating ... I think she should take a second look at all the candidates (even those evil vile Republicans) and risk the wrath of God, or maybe just her father, and vote for the one who she is most comfortable with. Not the one she likes, but the one that she thinks will do her interests the least harm ... that is the way a whole lot of us usually vote.

Fascinating piece from a writer at the LA Times. It is so true ... and sometimes we forget it at our own peril. The takeaway I have is to remember the adage of former House Speaker Tip O'Neal: all politics is local ... and that even holds true in other countries ... so they are not going to act in what we perceive to be their best interest, but in what they perceive to be their own best interest within their own national power structures.

This WAPO Op-Ed piece points how the Obama Administration's propensity for making deals - like those with Iran - really are doing the US no good in dealing with other groups in the Middle East. Not that that is any news, or shouldn't be to anyone with more than a passing knowledge of world news.

This essay explores how President Obama's nuclear deal with the Iranians basically is off to a really bad start ... other than being entirely unenforceable. OH WELL, we get what we vote for .... might be something we should think about when we visit the polls this election cycle.

How does one describe this? It was a link posted by my high school guidance counselor (who ranks up there among the saints in my book, despite the revelation about her sexual orientation, which doesn't matter to me at all ... she still is super in my book) and it is about the concept of "white privilege". Personally, I think it is a pile of the stuff that comes out of the south end of a north bound male bovine. First of all, it stinks of racism ... the very racism it accuses whites of. Secondly, it demeans minorities by assuming that all white families are rich, involved in their children's educations and going to help them through college.  Ahhhh ... I find that a patently false assumption and rather disgusting. Having said that, I undertand that cultural and economic conditions definitely hold people back. Guess what? That is life. Life is that way. It isn't fair. It doesn't give everybody the same opportunities, skills, talents, personalities, drive, whatever. No, people are individuals so there is no way to equalize all opportunities so that outcomes can be "fairer" (Whatever the heck that means, because elifino). No, what the individual should do is do the absolute best with the tools and opportunities they have with dignity and integrity. Anything less is wrong.

I love when old stories get played as big exposes ... Heck, Rumsfeld himself posted this memo on his web site back 2011 - as the article does admit. Folks, the war in Iraq has moved on. Get over it.

This is definitely a thought provoking piece ... glad to see I am not the only one who has thought of missile armed tramp frieghters launching nukes into the atmosphere over the US ... but that being aside ... the prospect of what would happen when the electric grid goes DOWN down is really scary.  I mean, really really really scary.

It seems House Speaker Paul Ryan is considering trying to get Congress to exercise its constitutional perogative and duty ... as far war is concerned. The question remains as to what form such a authorization for military force will take.

Over in the South China Sea, I hope this article is correct ... because the potential for things going horribly, horribly wrong seem so very high to me.

Warning: the Duffleblog is like the Onion: Having said that, there is so much truth in this it ain't even funny anymore.

This is why I have problems with the progressive-liberal-Democrat approach to everything ... it is all based on envy, jealousy and resentment. Folks, in my humble opinion, if you feel any of those emotions toward others, then the problem lies with you and not them. You best get over it and start working on what you can to do what is best for you and not worry about what somebody else has that you don't

I am not sure if anyone has a "right" to fly on any airline ... but this takes the cake as far as I am concerned.

So much for this edition … I have more topics lined up … but I am tired … and time to take my meds and go to bed … I hope y’all have a nice time reviewing these. I sure did have a good time reading them.

Random Thoughts for Jan 24, 2016

Reminder: Most of the comments below are links to stories being commented upon. I urge you to read the links for background to my commentary.

Well, folks, let’s hope this works, as I return to the lists with new software. Please let me know if the links do not work.

Once more, we delve into the news of the day with the commentary of the old news editor. I hope you find these selections entertaining, informative and thought provoking.

This article is an interesting defense of American "exceptionalism" , which seems under siege by liberals and progressives who would rather find fault in things "American" and point out how many different classes of victims of "America" need to be lifted up. Needless to say, I come down on the side of America being exceptional and that victimhood really is getting worn out as an excuse to get others to give you something you might not otherwise have. Envy is as bad a greed, and probably more so, because envy breeds jealousy, which breeds efforts to take things by force to end the perceived "inequality"

I doubt very much that Democrats, liberals and progressives see things this way, but I suspect that the description of the Koch brothers in this essay is far more accurate than the vitriol and criticism that is heaped on the pair from the left. They have their own wealthy "bad apples" they should tend to. Beginning with George Soros who makes most of his money gambling (for that is all a hedge fund manager does. There is no investment anything real) with other people's money on the markets around the world.

Thomas Sowell makes his case that supporting Donald Trump is a situation where emotion trumps facts. Now, that is probably true, but then emotion projection also explains those who are/were enamored with Barack Obama and Bernie Sanders.

Assuming the LA Times has it ducks in a row and this story is true, it would seem to me that a host of federal election and workplace laws are being broken here. Not that I expect any prosecutions because most of it is in support of Bernie Sanders, Hillary Clinton and the Democratic Party. It is, the last time I looked, illegal for foreign nationals to contribute or participate in American elections.. It also is illegal, I think, for people to employ immigrants (legal or illegal) without their having proper work permits. It just seems odd to me that this gets a pass ... not only from the big national media but also federal prosecutors ... oh, that is right, President Obama doesn't want illegals prosecuted for violating federal laws, rules and regulations.

Apparently, President Obama has reached the point that Congress has become superfluous to his rule ... now the question is whether the courts will back him ... or will Congress people finally realize the intrusions on their turf constitutionally and actually try to stand up and do something about it. I am somewhat hopeful about the former, but less sanquine about the latter ... I just don't see it happening.

Atlantic's defense of President Obama in light of his "losing" the war in Iraq, which is a current GOP meme. Well, they are both wrong. The people who lost Iraq are the Iraqi people themselves. It really didn't matter if the US left troops behind to help the Iraqi forces train or not. The Iraqi people didn't fight for their country, but rather let the government split it along sectarian lines and creating a whole new set of grievances and feelings of victimhood. ... Come to think of it, that sounds like today's Democratic party that seems bent on Balkanizing the US by race, religion, sexual orientation and economic status. Just thinking mind you.

Now if Hillary Clinton ever really becomes a "target" of a federal investigation, I will be surprised. If she gets indicted, I will be shocked. I mean the Clintons take being "Teflon" politicians to a new level (and in the 1980s, everybody that was somebody in the opinion making elite complained that Ronald Reagan was "Teflon-coated")

Interesting treatise on the fact that the old "consensus" that has governed American politics for several generations has, essentially, collapsed and is no more. We seem to be in a period of transition to a new paradigm. What that will be: Who knows? But is being wrought by the telecommunications revolution, with the internet and the advent of the social media. It is a Brave New World out there ... so get ready for a wild ride ... or as we used to say when I was growing up: an E-ticket ride. (if you don't get the reference, research the original Disneyland pricing structure)

Ok, folks, this is the wild card: Michael Bloomberg. Will he run as an independent, or will he try to horn in on Hillary Clinton, after Bernie Sanders proves she is vulnerable (ala Gene McCarty), and Robert Kennedy stepped in to co-opt McCarthy as more electable, in 1968. Of course, he doesn't have RFK's cachet as the carrier of JFK legacy torch. My operating theory is that we are seeing a replay of the 1968 Democratic battle for the nomination. Hillary is in the role of LBJ as the representive of the old guard of the Democratic Party, Bernie Sanders is in the role of Eugene "Keep Clean with Gene" McCarthy who had generated so much enthusiasm among the college set and younger voters, and Joe Biden is sitting there in the role of Hubert Humphrey (the party's fallback position in the Happy Warrior). Of course, Elizabeth Warren could try to step in, or Jerry "Gov. Moonbeam" Brown, to take the role of RFK when Hillary's campaign falls apart due to all her nefarious activities over the years. Not that I am holding out much hope that she will pull an LBJ and pull out of the race.

Of course, anyone with a lick of sense knew this was in jest, but still it has its point that support for candidates this go around in the 2016 presidential race is about emotional projections and not really about what the candidates do or say. Which is sad.

The National Review takes a shot at Donald Trump by comparing him to Muqtada al Sadr, the Iragi Shiite scion who was such a pain in the butt in the reconstruction of Iraq after 2003. I am not sure it fits, but it is an interesting take on the Donald.

Not because I am enamoured with The Donald, but this is a fricking hypocritcal hit piece. Sorry, even though the author disavows that Trump is responsible, or at least needs to explain away, the sins of his father ... I don't see any other candidate having to do this, not even our president when he was running.

I have a problem with this HuffPo piece ... heck, I understand the woman's position ... but it not just men who seem to be above the law ... like actors and athletes, but also our political class. So while she tells women not to get involved with the rich and famous (which is really good advice) because they will use you, abuse you and then throw you away when you are no longer useful, I disagree that they should just walk away. That only perpetuates the problem ... and yes, it is difficult, if not exceedingly hard, but standing up to those who break the law is preferable than quietly acquiesing to their transgressions.

Unfortunately, for this Brit, they never seem to understand the American process or its whys and wherefores. It has many flaws ... and purely democratic it ain't (but then it never was designed to be so as to be a buffer against the excesses of the mob). It is, however, compared to the inherent instability in a multicultural environment of the parliamentary system (see post war Italy) which can fall on a vote of no confidence at any turn, forcing yet another election, is a model of stability and reason. At least the American system provides a stability and regularity that comes around every two to four to six years (depending on the federal office). Now that it is a two to four year circus is because we have the telecommunications revolution with the 24 hour news cycle. We have all these pundits, talking heads, poll takers, political consultants, political reporters who would be sitting around twittling their thumbs for a number of years if they didn't start ginning up the horse race for the next election in two to four years the moment after the ballots are counted and before the newly elected are even sworn in. In some ways, I think an old Texas law would be most appropriate at the federal level. It said that you could not (if you held any other elective office on pain of forced resignation) declare yourself as a candidate for any other public office more than a year before that office's new term began. Only applied to state races, but you get the drift. I have felt for years that the US campaigns (Thanks to you Jimmy Carter) are way too long. I think that filing for federal office should probably open in June and end August 1, then the states could hold a primary in mid-September with the top two or three vote getters appearing on the general election ballot in November. Not going to happen, but that would be my solution.

Revisiting the Constitution: Sometimes there are those who forget that the entire document is a compromise ... and no one gets a whole loaf. Actually, I am of the opinion that the Madisonians did a good job of honoring the concerns of those who opposed it and had the integrity to follow through. That integrity, honor, duty and public service no longer are ideals that Americans find attractive is more at fault to our current problems than anything with the document drafted 229 summers ago.

This guy really has a point ... not that it is politically correct in today's charged atmosphere ... but I have contended for a very long time that the only minority that you could abuse without them having any recourse was the WASPCEMOPs, especially if they were veterans or those who chose to serve their country in the military reserves.  Oh, you want a translation of "WASPCEMOP" ... well, it has evolved over the years but basically it stands for "White Anglo-Saxon Protestant College Educated Male Older Professional" of any wage earning stripe. Sorry, but I have been there, done that and taken all sorts of slings and arrows because of it.

Hey, I know this fellow ... I am glad he thinks he is making a joke to make a point about the Second Amendment ... because if he was serious ... well, I will not say here what I think of him

Now, in my humble opinion, if you think any of these five options actually are good ... well ... I don't think there is much hope for you. If you think about each one, you are surrendering your freedom and liberty for a false sense of security or some benefit that will have to paid by someone else's indentured service.

While I agree, in a sense, with this article, it bothers me considerably that once again we are setting up a double standard ... with no intention of really punishing those who violate these protocols. That is my problem ... the other side doesn't obey the rules ... and as Pappy once told me: A gentleman never starts the fight, he merely finishes it as quickly as possible with any means at hand with no holds barred. Unfortunately, progressives don't see the logic behind that and are wrapped up in feeling good about their moral superiority as they go down in flames.

Ok, count me among the "climate deniers" - actually I am more of climate skeptic - but unfortunately, I fear the data is on the side of the people supporting this report.

This to me is the epitome of the epic progressive mountain out of a molehill. Sorry, but it not something that I can get all that worked up over as a major problem requiring massive federal government intervention.

Oh my goodness, where is our President on this horrible school shooting? Call out all the gun control advocates and lets have a panic drive for new controls ... oh ... OOPS, this happened in Canada and they already have very, very strict gun control measures in effect. Sorry, my bad ... everybody go back to sleeep now.

Taiwan: Is it worth American lives? Is the US willing to defend its agreement with the Taiwanese government in the face of a possible Chinese attack with the new independence-minded president? Elifino, but it is a question we ought to be considering in light of the changing dynamic in that area.

I love stories like this. China will not initiate military action in the South China Sea - Chinese expert says. Please note that this "expert" is a former Chinese government official with close ties to the current regime. Now, the Chinese would never think of using him to sow disinformation, would they? Remember, Hainan is a province (not some independent entity like Hong Kong used to be and Taiwan is) of China and has been since Mao took over in 1949 and its officialdom marches to Beijing's orders.

Random Thoughts for Jan 22, 2016

Well, folks, I seem to have fallen way behind on my job here ... again ... for which I apologize. The list has become overwhelming ... and without my offline blog writer working, it seems impossible for me to make any headway ... I still am looking for a solution to that problem and I hope someday soon I will have it resolved, or my health improves to the point that I will be able to spend the necessary time to properly annotate my reading lists.

Now, I have ... to a point, attempted to categorize the follow links in groups ... but even in that effort I find myself wanting.

So, please indulge me and read as many of these as you can, or at least moves you. Some are very very very good and very powerful ... and all provide some measure or modicum of fodder for the grey matter on issues far and wide.

One more, as I say, we venture forth into the breach:

Topics for January 2016


http://dailysignal.com/2016/01/19/world-watches-how-iran-now-free-of-nuclear-sanctions-will-act/

http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2016/01/17/obama-iran-deal-makes-world-safer/78931152/

http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2016/01/16/iaea-iran-has-completed-steps-in-nuclear-deal-can-now-recoup-100-billion-in-frozen-assets.html

http://news.yahoo.com/iran-still-intent-acquiring-nuclear-arms-despite-deal-223158423.html

http://news.yahoo.com/iranian-us-foreign-minister-focus-clinching-nuclear-deal-094627967.html

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-35335078

http://www.politico.com/blogs/under-the-radar/2016/01/iran-deal-obama-grants-clemency-to-seven-217879

http://en.farsnews.com/newstext.aspx?nn=13941030001016

http://libertyunyielding.com/2016/01/18/gulf-status-quo-collapsing-why-were-the-u-s-navy-boats-near-farsi-island/

http://www.realcleardefense.com/articles/2016/01/20/irans_treatment_of_us_sailors_and_contempt_for_international_agreements_108922.html


http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-35333647


http://www.nytimes.com/2016/01/20/us/politics/hillary-clinton-email-said-to-include-material-exceeding-top-secret.html

https://pjmedia.com/victordavishanson/still-polarizing-after-all-these-years/?singlepage=true

http://townhall.com/columnists/thomassowell/2016/01/19/what-are-elections-for-n2106351/page/full

http://www.nationalreview.com/article/429810/whites-minorities-united-states-demographics

http://www.the-american-interest.com/2016/01/17/andrew-jackson-revenant/

http://www.nationalreview.com/article/429862/conservative-populists-american-decline-exaggerated

http://townhall.com/columnists/johncgoodman/2016/01/16/seven-bad-habits-of-highly-progressive-people-n2105185/page/full

http://www.nytimes.com/2016/01/17/opinion/sunday/some-inconvenient-gun-facts-for-liberals.html


http://www.nbcnews.com/news/nbcblk/tale-two-cities-charleston-backdrop-dem-debate-n497921

https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/fact-checker/wp/2016/01/17/fact-checking-the-fourth-democratic-debate/

http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2016/01/18/ap-fact-check-democratic-debaters-and-facts.html?intcmp=hpbt1

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/chris-rock-oscars-tweet_569a5908e4b0ce496424a82d?

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/9-performers-of-color-nominated-oscar_5697d75ee4b0b4eb759d7a1f?

https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/dc-politics/district-leaders-furious-walmart-wont-build-stores-in-poor-neighborhoods/2016/01/15/3425f5fa-bbb3-11e5-99f3-184bc379b12d_story.html

http://townhall.com/columnists/douggiles/2016/01/17/angry-conservatives-should-listen-to-nikki-sixx-instead-of-nikki-haley-n2105787/page/full

http://libertyunyielding.com/2016/01/18/video-prager-u-asks-whether-america-racist/

http://newbostonpost.com/2016/01/15/do-we-still-dream-the-dream/

http://www.economist.com/blogs/erasmus/2016/01/religious-freedom-and-america

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/hamilton-hollywood-diversity_us_56a0f1bfe4b076aadcc55c0a?

https://www.yahoo.com/politics/bernie-sanders-radical-past-how-the-vermont-230255076.html

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/marco-rubio-guns-isis_569bc817e4b0778f46f9a3bc

http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2016/01/18/exclusive-pentagon-may-demote-david-petraeus.html


http://guardianlv.com/2013/12/icelanders-overthrow-government-and-rewrite-constitution-after-banking-fraud-no-word-from-us-media/

http://fightback.org.nz/2013/03/05/icelands-peaceful-revolution-myth-and-reality/


http://www.reuters.com/article/us-burkina-attacks-idUSKCN0UT2HC

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-35334902


http://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-35321716

http://nationalinterest.org/feature/the-chinese-plans-nuke-america-14952

http://dailysignal.com/2016/01/15/why-the-freedom-caucus-wants-to-declare-war-on-isis/

http://www.express.co.uk/finance/city/634666/China-spark-global-financial-ICE-AGE-depression-sending-markets-crashing-by-75

http://foxtrotalpha.jalopnik.com/desert-storms-opening-shots-came-from-this-daring-helic-1753466057

http://www.nbcnews.com/storyline/isis-terror/kurdish-forces-are-waging-revenge-campaign-iraq-amnesty-international-n500106

http://www.cnn.com/2016/01/20/opinions/ta-nehisi-coates-attack-on-bernie-sanders-mcwhorter/index.html

http://taskandpurpose.com/as-a-former-embassy-guard-heres-what-i-know-13-hours-got-wrong/

http://www.foxnews.com/opinion/2016/01/21/rep-jolly-change-rules-and-stop-members-congress-from-asking-for-money.html

http://www.caintv.com/flint-water-gop-governor-getti

http://townhall.com/columnists/walterewilliams/2016/01/20/blacks-and-the-confederacy-n2106254/page/full

http://www.nationalreview.com/article/430051/obama-dapa-supreme-court

http://townhall.com/columnists/brentbozell/2016/01/20/the-medias-cockeyed-political-spectrum-n2106937/page/full

http://townhall.com/columnists/johnstossel/2016/01/20/economic-myths-n2106816/page/full

http://fee.org/anythingpeaceful/are-immigrants-still-assimilating-in-america/

http://www.realcleardefense.com/articles/2016/01/19/when_appeasement_is_in_season_108916.html

http://sofrep.com/45767/a-navy-seal-on-why-america-is-still-the-greatest-country/

https://pjmedia.com/homeland-security/2016/01/19/weve-got-it-wrong-isis-is-not-the-main-problem-in-the-middle-east/?singlepage=true

http://www.armymagazine.org/2016/01/12/winning-the-war-weve-got-not-the-one-we-want/

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-35388594

http://news.yahoo.com/teen-protesting-her-schools-dress-174100808.html?nhp=1

http://www.nationalreview.com/node/430052/print

http://fee.org/anythingpeaceful/the-rest-of-the-world-doesnt-use-single-payer/

http://www.hoover.org/research/new-sagebrush-rebels

http://warontherocks.com/2016/01/from-the-first-gulf-war-to-islamic-state-how-america-was-seduced-by-the-easy-war/

Random Thoughts for Jan 16, 2016 - unannotated

Once again, I owe my followers and readers an apology ... the old Walrus is under the weather and not to doing a decent job of annotating this list.  However, I feel it necessary to get these discussion pieces out there. I offer essays from all sides of the spectrum, some I agree with, many I do not. You know my bent, if you follow me, so I hope you can infer my commentary after reading these articles. I hope soon to lick what ever it is that has set up shop and besieged my body and brain of late. Please, do accept my limitations for now.

For readers' reference
http://www.nytimes.com/2016/01/13/us/politics/obama-2016-sotu-transcript.html?_r=0


Now, on to the list ... I hope you find them enlightening.

http://www.factcheck.org/2016/01/factchecking-the-state-of-the-union/

http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2016/01/13/fact-check-obama-state-of-the-union/78713514/

http://townhall.com/tipsheet/christinerousselle/2016/01/13/photo-comparison-shows-how-the-presidency-has-aged-obama-n2103933

http://townhall.com/tipsheet/townhallcomstaff/2016/01/12/tea-party-response-to-the-state-of-union-address-n2103688

http://www.worldpolicy.org/blog/2016/01/12/obamas-success-foreign-policy

http://townhall.com/columnists/johnstossel/2016/01/13/optimism-and-obama-n2103470/page/full

http://foreignpolicy.com/2016/01/12/obamas-failed-command-military-state-of-the-union/

http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2016/01/12/team-obama-brags-we-ended-two-wars-just-don-t-count-the-dead-troops.html

http://www.nationalreview.com/article/429676/obama-race-relations-lousy

http://thehill.com/policy/defense/265518-chuck-hagel-to-the-next-president-listen

http://www.military.com/daily-news/2016/01/13/10-sailors-detained-in-iran-returned-to-us-navy.html?ESRC=eb.nl

http://libertyunyielding.com/2016/01/12/initial-apwhite-house-story-about-u-s-navy-sailors-detained-by-iran-makes-no-sense/

http://www.allenbwest.com/2016/01/folks-heres-what-i-find-very-odd-about-what-happened-with-iran-and-our-navy-yesterday/

https://www.commentarymagazine.com/foreign-policy/middle-east/iran/how-to-retaliate-against-iran/

http://www.disgruntledlifestyle.com/#!So-Iran-Happened/p2k1h/56982d390cf210383192fa68

http://www.unprecedentedmediocrity.com/here-is-what-you-really-saw-while-watching-the-iranian-capture-of-10-navy-sailors/


http://www.realcleardefense.com/articles/2016/01/13/blame_china__and_the_white_house__for_north_koreas_nukes_108893.html

http://townhall.com/columnists/austinbay/2016/01/13/the-global-state-of-war-n2103672/page/full

https://www.thecipherbrief.com/article/future-cross-strait-relations

http://www.nytimes.com/2016/01/13/world/asia/philippines-us-military.html?_r=1

http://www.realcleardefense.com/articles/2016/01/12/four_questions_for_the_marine_corps_108891.html

http://nationalinterest.org/blog/the-skeptics/the-truth-about-women-ground-combat-roles-14904


http://www.israelvideonetwork.com/the-awesome-video-that-will-make-muslim-apologists-head-explode/


https://www.warhistoryonline.com/featured/us-general-mark-w-clark.html


http://www.chicksontheright.com/ok-all-the-body-positivity-photos-of-women-in-their-skivvies-can-we-stop-now/

http://www.thefederalistpapers.org/us/meme-exposes-hard-truth-about-giving-democrats-power

http://www.addictinginfo.org/2016/01/14/ted-duck-hunter-cruz-goes-full-camo-in-bizarre-new-ad-pandering-to-idiot-america-video/

http://www.wsj.com/articles/the-democratic-crack-up-1452815892

http://www.hoover.org/research/college-students-flunk-economics

http://www.cnn.com/2016/01/14/world/episcopal-church-suspended/index.html

http://thinkprogress.org/education/2015/04/02/3642085/stanford-free-tuition/

http://www.occupydemocrats.com/170-top-economists-pen-letter-backing-bernie-sanders-plan-to-break-up-the-biggest-banks/

http://townhall.com/columnists/armstrongwilliams/2016/01/13/responsible-gun-ownership-is-not-only-a-right-but-a-duty-of-citizenship-n2092208/page/full

http://www.dineshdsouza.com/news/american-thinker-stealing-america-review/

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/flint-lead-water-epa_569522a8e4b086bc1cd5373c?

Readings and thoughts through Jan 12, 2016

Note: Many of these blocks of text actually are the link to a story or a web page that I am commenting on. Click on that text and it will take you to the page being referred to.


Once again, the old editorialist sallies forth into the breach ... I hope you find this collection of essays and random commentaries/thoughts interesting ... or at least thought provoking.

I begin tonight by stating: No, I did not watch President Obama's  State of the Union Address this evening. Being a news junky, I normally endeavor to do so, just to see what he has to say. Unfortunately, at this point in his career, the cognitive dissonance and absolute conflict with reality he presents when he talks has reached the point that I no longer can stomach watching him spout rhetoric that basically contradicts with what he says before it even leaves his lips. His dissemination and disingenuous has reached the point with me that he has no, absolutely none, credibility with me. This is a totally political divergence and any effort to impugn any other motive on my part ... well, I will treat it with the disdain it deserves.

Having said my opening statement, let us embark on our journey through my Random Thoughts.

For those who try to divorce science from religion, I offer this counter-argument ... for it coincides closely with my own views.

This story explains who the true winner of the Power Ball drawing will be ... of course, at the same time, I have to admit I bought my one ticket - you can't win if you don't play - because if I do win, even one of the minor prizes, much less the jackpot, then it will pay off. As for the rest, this article is spot on. It is why lotteries, at least in the US, really are not a great idea, but one can always dream and what price can you put on the few moments of fantasy when you dream "What if"

I guess the kid running North Korea was feeling a bit neglected ... still H-bomb or not, the day will come when the threat - if it is not already - will be quite real and I, for one, have no clue how far the little smuck will go to get attention.

Now, this was - or should have been expected - but what good did it really do ... I don't know. The question is is the US "speaking loudly while carrying a little stick (will to act)" or is this speaking "softly while carrying a big stick"?

An interesting take on the standoff in Northeast Asia ... who or what will move first

This article struck me as an absolutely useless discussion ... it doesn't seem to recognize that not everyone thinks like we do, and therefore the inducements that might be attractive to us, hold no attraction to the the DPRK.

Victor David Hanson once again writes a rant that I totally agree with. I guess that makes me a privileged white man oppressor of all around me.

If you don't have a major problem with this liberal talking point ... well, I fear there is little hope for you, us or the republic. Sorry, but when 77 percent of the people say the president should do something that legally and constitutionally he is prohibited from doing (like making the law, rather than enforcing the law), then that is where you and I part company. If you accept this then there is nothing that stands between the president making any executive order that strips the constitutional rights away from any citizen that happens to hold a view that is unpopular. That, folks, is the principle that needs to stand inviolate..

I hope this essay in the Atlantic is wrong in its conclusions as it is wrong in its conclusions about the history of the 19th and 20th Centuries

Of course, then there is this article that offers a totally different conclusion ... the question is which one is correct? I don't know ... you are welcome to your own opinion

Victor David Hanson, again, with a worthy essay - in my opinion - on immigration and assimilation. 

An interesting article on the politics of gun control ... or gun ownership restrictions ... it seems we have a big debate on that these days ... I just keep referring back to Constitution and the 1794 Militia Act as my baseline

Words from an immigrant on why her right to keep and bear arms is important to her ... given her background ... probably worth considering

Back to the Oregon standoff - I just hope nobody starts anything foolish

Oregon Standoff: Even the NYTimes recognizes that the issues really are larger than the Bundys ... or the Hammonds ... and is a long running cancer out west where so much land is under federal control

An interesting article offering the differing perspectives capitalism - not the crony type encouraged by progressives - and central planning ... of course, if the grid goes down, how are all those progressive urban dwellers going to be fed?

The charts in this say it all ... but it raises the question why are we all upset about the 1 percent. It really is silly and non-productive from my point of view (and mind you, I definitely am not part of the 1 percent ... or even in the top 50th percentile)

I read this article and all I could think of was "woulda, shoulda, coulda" ... well it didn't happen that way ... and even if the "realists" had prevailed, there is no guarantee that things would have gone the way they think. Sorry, but the world isn't that tidy and neat ... it is one big mess in a constant state of churn and chaos ... get used to it.

I suspect I will start following this columnist ... he makes a host of salient points about the current government in Washington (ringing in all parties)

This is the fear I have ... effectiveness to fall victim to some false, ephemeral goal of diversity. Is it really what we want?

Here we have the Iranians pushing the envelope ... the question is: What is the proper response? I guess that depends on what your objectives are.

And last, but not least, on the day of the President's big speech ... the Iranians go and do this? Granted, we don't know the whole story, but it is not good.

Suggested reading links through Jan. 9, 2016

With apologizes aforehand, as I have a bit under the weather of late, so here is a list of Random Thoughts for you to poke through and read that I have found interesting and worthy of at least considering the views or the news contained therein in the raw and without annotation or commentary. I just want to keep my topic slate board as short as possible, and not really being up to providing the commentary or annotation ... I choose just to pose the links. If this is inadequate I apologize but please bear with me. The old walrus who once was a newspaper editor and news editor sometimes has to just do what he can.

http://www.nationalreview.com/node/429215/print

http://www.latimes.com/opinion/op-ed/la-oe-0103-williams-black-victim-self-definition-20160103-story.html

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/robert-kuttner/thinking-harder-about-pol_b_8908436.html

http://www.cnn.com/2016/01/04/opinions/levin-oregon-takeover/index.html

http://warontherocks.com/2016/01/fixing-how-we-fight-the-islamic-states-narrative/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YRamCRtPII

http://nypost.com/2016/01/02/myth-of-the-cop-killing-epidemic/

http://smallwarsjournal.com/jrnl/art/deterring-chinese-aggression

http://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/biomedical-science-studies-are-shockingly-hard-reproduce-180957708/

http://www.libertylawsite.org/liberty-forum/freedom-of-association-and-antidiscrimination-law-an-imperfect-reconciliation/

http://fee.org/freeman/safe-spaces-can-t-be-diverse/

http://www.nationalreview.com/article/429135/american-politics-government-reviled

http://www.nationalreview.com/article/429191/america-needs-strong-community

http://www.bostonglobe.com/opinion/2016/01/04/liberals-take-low-road-oregon-stand-off/eIPwBIpBMejp0k7HmR6NoJ/story.html?s_campaign=email_BG_TodaysHeadline&s_campaign=

http://www.foxnews.com/us/2016/01/04/rancher-family-reports-to-prison-does-not-endorse-oregon-siege.html

http://fee.org/anythingpeaceful/no-heroes-in-the-west-fire-feds-and-freeloaders/

http://www.slate.com/articles/news_and_politics/politics/2016/01/the_oregon_standoff_with_ammon_bundy_isn_t_evidence_of_a_racial_double_standard.html

http://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/2nd-amendment-protects-knives-long-theyre-not-made-cooking-180957718/

http://townhall.com/tipsheet/christinerousselle/2016/01/06/nra-president-wayne-lapierre-delivers-the-truth-about-background-checks-n2100581?utm_source=thdailypm&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=nl_pm&newsletterad=

https://www.commentarymagazine.com/foreign-policy/asia/looming-threat-north-korea/

http://undertheradar.military.com/2016/01/the-13-funniest-military-memes-of-the-week-1616/

http://warontherocks.com/2016/01/living-with-fog-and-friction-the-fallacy-of-information-superiority/

http://townhall.com/columnists/victordavishanson/2016/01/07/rendezvous-with-reality-in-2016-n2100533/page/full

http://fee.org/freeman/3-kinds-of-economic-ignorance/

http://www.nytimes.com/roomfordebate/2016/01/07/who-should-control-the-west/federal-land-management-has-been-disastrous

http://www.hoover.org/research/end-modernity?utm_source=hdr&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=2016-01-08

http://dailysignal.com/2016/01/07/10-myths-about-guns/

http://www.nationalreview.com/article/429423/left-betrayal-america

http://www.factcheck.org/2016/01/sanders-wealth-inequality-stat/

http://fee.org/anythingpeaceful/the-barbarianism-of-paternalism/

http://warontherocks.com/2016/01/we-are-terrorized-why-u-s-counterterrorism-policy-is-failing-and-why-it-cant-be-easily-fixed/

A Random Essay on the economics of Bernie Sanders

   To paraphrase part of a lament from Bernie Sanders: The Middle Class is in crisis.

   However, the solution, I fear lies not in jealousy, popular anger and resentment, or in confiscating the wealth of others, and, yet, when you examine Sanders campaign rhetoric and promises, this about all his attraction is.

   Only, it is not the middle class that is in crisis; it is the American nation that is in crisis. In 21^st Century America, it seems that understanding history is no longer a thing that we value. As a result, we are seeing yet another assault on the absolute rock bottom individual rights that provide the foundation for the nation : The right to life, liberty, property and the freedom to enjoy those as we pursue our individual choices as to what makes up happy … the pursuit of happiness. You know those things mentioned in the basic statement of principle about what it means to be an American: the Declaration of Independence.

   In Sanders’ view of America, the rights of the individual are secondary to the benefits that can be bequeathed and doled out by the government. So, we see his call for federal Medicare benefits for everyone in the nation, when medical care providers are opting out of the Medicare/Medicaid system because they deny the medical care providers the right to the ownership of their own labor.

   If someone has more wealth or income than you, then this disparity is to be reconciled by the federal government through providing social programs that will bring up those who are on the lower end of the economic scale.  How the government is to pay for this is that it must take the resources from those who have and redistribute it to those who have not.

   According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the per capita income (the amount each person – all 321 million of us – would get if all the income made in a year was distributed equally to all) in the country was $28,555. That means that any individual that makes more than that would have to give the excess to the government to bring up the income for those (including children) who do not make that much.

   However the median household income is $53,482 with the household size being 2.63. That means that, gasp, somebody is making more money than they should be. 

   Of course, under Sanders view of the economy, I guess we could basic place all property and means of production in the hands of the government with each of us employees of the government and then each household would be granted $28,000 per person living there to live on. I mean, what could be fairer?

   And of course, everyone would be guaranteed all the education they wanted and their health care would be paid for by the government as the single payer. Now, you do understand, however, that teachers, professors, doctors, lawyers, entrepreneurs all would be limited to the same income of $28,000 per person, as well as the janitors, porters, technicians, assistants, clerks, ditch diggers, plumbers, mechanics, shop workers and machinists.

   Now, individuals would be allowed approximately 600 square feet of living space in their homes … just to be equal. Of course, if you were that average family that would work out to about 1800 square feet per household, which is what the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development says is the median size for the roughly 134 million housing units in the U.S. So, if you live in something larger, or have fewer people than 2.63, then you need to downsize right now to reduce the inequality. And if you have more than the 2.63, the government needs to provide larger quarters for you.

   Of course, if you live in a house worth more than the median $175k, well … obviously we would need to do something about that. Oh, that is correct: the government provides our housing so our home value to us is zero.

   And you won’t need to worry about a mortgage, so that is $1500 a month that you won’t be paying. And since you don’t own a mortgage, then the $457 you would pay goes to zip because you don’t own anything. And those people who rent? Well, the $920 they pay goes to zip too. I guess the same would be for cell phones, internet service, wi-fi coverage, bicycles, cars, boats, planes, trains, etc.

   Oh, and of course, back to education, all schools, colleges and universities would become public institutions (owned by the government) and so all their endowments and trusts would be spread among all the other schools on a per capita basis so every school got the exact same amount of money to pay teachers, et al.

   Now, I know you probably are saying at this point that maybe it wouldn’t be that bad. You think so? Well, if you truly want equality and no inequalities, then yes, it would have to be that bad. Please, pretty please, study the history of the 20^th Century and the first part of this century, where it has been tried so many times in so many different ways … and all of them have failed spectacularly as they fell in to tyranny.

   So, you say, how about just a little inequality (you know, since I am smarter or better than the average bear I get a little more than the averages)? Well, how much inequality are you willing to allow? And who gets to do the deciding what levels which person gets what?

   Now, don’t take this as a defense of Wall Street or the current perverted version of capitalism that is being managed out of Washington, D.C. Personally, I don’t think it is the federal government’s business to bail out any business, regardless of how big it is and how much an impact it might have. Failure is a great corrective for aberrant behaviors.

   And the tax code is what 80,000 pages and umpteen millions of words to do what? It is not raising money for the government, but for giving competitive advantages to the special interest du jour of the month. There should be no credits, deductions, rebates, paybacks and other favors. None, Zip, Zero, Nada. Not that that is going to happen in my lifetime.

   However, what Bernie Sanders – and Hillary Clinton, as well as most of the Republican candidates – is saying is seductive … alluring … enticing … and wrong.

   I don’t expect to see it happen, but society owes us nothing (unless you have a written contract otherwise), government owes us nothing (unless you have a written contract otherwise), but equality before the law.  We as individuals are entitled to nothing but life, liberty (to make our own choices and mistakes and endure the consequences), the right to own property (especially our labor, which we are free to sell at whatever price we can get for it) and to pursue our own dreams of happiness.

   If you don’t believe that … then you really have no clue what really has made the U.S. the magnet to immigrants from all over the world.

   Of course, you can disagree with me … and that is your right and privilege, but I have history and human nature on my side.