WHAT A SHAME- A look at the low points in the modern media. HUMILIATION TELEVISION; IT DOESNT GET ANY LOWER THAN THIS. "DON'T HATE YOURSELF, HATE THESE PEOPLE."

So if what we are watching on TV Today, at Least in Terms of SO-CALLED "REALITY TELEVISION," is a return to the Concept of "BREAD AND CIRCUSES" that was part of the ROMAN EMPIRE, why does it appeal to so many people?

It may be Difficult for some fans of these shows to accept, but it could be the Desire to see a PATHETIC OR UNAPPEALING INDIVIDUAL SUFFERING, AND THAT NO MATTER HOW BAD THE VIEWERS LIFE IS, AT LEAST IT'S NOT THEM ON THE SCREEN.

To Add to this Image, a HOST is tossed in to either:

- Make the Guests seem more Reprehensible.

- Fan the Flames to Encourage More Conflict, including

Physical Altercations.

- To Show the Audience that They can Rescue the

Guests from Themselves. Of Course Help is offered

after Thoroughly Humiliating and Demeaning those on Stage.

Remember, These shows are Promoting what you are seeing as TRUE TO LIFE,

NOT CHARACTERS ACTING FROM A SCRIPT. ( How much of this is actually True is Very Suspect, and Accusations of Fictional Dramas being played off as REALITY RUN RAMPANT.)

However, what does it say about the Regular Viewers of such Material? Is the Pain, Anguish, and Emotional Suffering appearing before Their Eyes somehow CATHARTIC, when They See:

- Members of the Audience Chant and Ridicule Those who are the Focus of the Days Program.

- See Individuals in a better Economic Situation then They, Suffer Emotionally

and Physically.

- The Anger, Hate and Turmoil They may feel, reduced to an OBJECT OF PITY

AND RIDICULE, WHERE THE ONLY THING THEY TAKE AWAY FROM THE

EPISODE IS AN ATTITUDE OF, "AT LEAST THATS NOT ME."

Some will CRITICIZE me for taking issue with Subject Matter that is just a GUILTY PLEASURE, AND SHOULDNT BE TAKEN SERIOUSLY.

Im Sorry to say This, but anything placed on TV that:

-  Uses Live Film of Minor Children to Create Tension and Confrontation,

ESPECIALLY AMONG PARENTAL FIGURES...

-  Pretends to Solve Complex Emotional Problems with 15- 20 Minutes

of POP PSYCHOLOGY...

-  Encourages or Creates Situations that May Lead to Physical Violence...

- Opens and Closes with Monologues by the Host, Telling everyone

how Wise and Benevolent They are..

... AMONG THE MOST DISGUSTING AND DISTASTEFUL FORMS OF PROGRAMMING, THAT ARE OF NO CONCEIVABLE BENEFIT TO ANYONE, ACCEPT MAYBE THOSE WHO BUY ADVERTISING DURING THE AIRING OF THE SHOW.

WORTHWHILE OR WORTHLESS- A CONSUMER GUIDE TO AVOIDING SCAMS AND SCOUNDRELS. MULTI- LEVEL MARKETING- JUST ANOTHER PYRAMID SCHEME. PT 3.

A Typical Pay Structure differs for a MULTI-LEVEL MARKETING Scenario, compared to that of Traditional Employment, in different ways. How so?

First, an MLM is usually Marketed as a START- UP BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY. You are now an

ENTREPRENEUR, working as much, or as little as possible. It is all up to you.

Of Course, having your own Business requires ONE VERY IMPORTANT INITIAL REQUIREMENT: INVESTMENT CAPITOL.

Thats Right, unlike employment you may be Familiar with, an MLM Requires You to make an Investment before you can make any Money.  Along these lines, You may find that one of your first out of pocket expenses is:

THE LICENSE OR DISTRIBUTOR FEE- Whatever type of Product you will be Selling, The Parent Corporation is probaby going to Charge you a Fee to become an EXCLUSIVE DISTRIBUTOR OF THEIR PRODUCT, WHICH IS NOT AVAILABLE IN STORES. (This is a Sample of the SALES PITCH USUALLY GIVEN TO PROSPECTIVE INVESTORS, WHICH IS WHAT YOU REALLY ARE.)

The Cost or Fee can DIFFER VASTLY, DEPENDING ON THE PRODUCT YOU WILL BE SELLING. Some of the more POPULAR TYPES OF PRODUCTS ARE:

- HOME HEALTH CARE.

- VITAMINS.

- NUTRITION SUPPLEMENTS.

- CLEANING PRODUCTS.

- WATER FILTERS, OR DEVICES TO CLEAN, PURIFY, OR EVEN "ENERGIZE" TAP WATER.

It is Quite True that the Brand Name Products you are now Selling are not found in Stores, BUT HIGHER QUALITY AND CHEAPER PRICES ARE NOT THE REASONS. When COMPARABLE PRODUCTS ARE FOUND IN RETAIL SETTINGS, MLM ITEMS ARE USUALLY MORE EXPENSIVE, AND DO NOT MEET THE SAME QUALITY STANDARDS.

However, some MLM products are so UNIQUE, that it is sometimes hard to find similar items for Sale in a Retail Store. This in itself, is used as a MARKETING TOOL. You are now offering YOUR FRIENDS, RELATIVES, NEIGHBORS etc., a PRODUCT "THEY" DONT WANT THE PUBLIC TO FIND OUT ABOUT.

DO YOU REMEMBER...BLASTS FROM THE PAST.

"DUCK DYNASTY" CONTROVERSY, AND FREEDOM OF SPEECH. PT 1.

( FIRST PUBLISHED ON 12/22/2013.)

This past week the A&E network announced that it was suspending Phil Robertson, star of their reality T.V show "DUCK DYNASTY", indefinitely. This action was in response to statements made by Robertson in a GQ MAGAZINE interview to be published in January. Quotes taken from the interview, which indicate the he believes Homosexuality to be "Sinful" and not "Logical", were reported in different media outlets to have offended Same-Sex rights activists and groups.

What is written in the above paragraph is considered to factually accurate, and neither Robertson or GQ has claimed any inaccuracy in the words or quotes reported to be in the body of the interview, or that certain statements were taken out of context. So where is the controversy?

It is amazing that no matter how apparent the flawed reasoning of certain individuals can be, there are those who will seek to justify it. The following is a prime example;

ACCUSATION- BY SUSPENDING ROBERTSON, A&E HAS VIOLATED HIS CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHT TO FREEDOM OF SPEECH.

Question- Did Robertson make these statements?

Answer- Yes, that is not in dispute.

Question-- Are Robertsons comments protected by the 1st amendment,

in that he cannot be prosecuted or punished criminally?

Answer- Yes, his words are protected.

Question- Because A&E suspended Robertson, his Constitutional Right to

Freedom of Speech has been violated.

Answer- Absolutely not.

To even have to address this issue is silly, for it has been covered and ruled upon (Judicially), many times.

However, certain political pundits and commentators are trying to score points with the public at large by claiming that the "DUCK DYNASTY" star has been punished contrary to Constitutional Law.

The simple answer to this claim is the following; TO HAVE YOUR RIGHT OF FREEDOM OF SPEECH OR EXPRESSION VIOLATED, IT MUST DONE BY AN ENTITY OF THE GOVERNMENT. PRIVATE CITIZENS OR GROUPS ARE NOT SUBJECT TO RESTRICTIONS SET FORTH IN THIS PART OF THE FIRST AMENDMENT.

Legally, there are restrictions in how an individual may exercise their right to freedom of speech. Slanderous or Libelous statements can lead to legal sanctions, but that is because the truth of these claims are called into question. Time, Place and Location is also a factor when judging whether or not one has the right to speak or act freely, but that is because such acts may infringe upon the rights of other individuals.

Look for PT 2.

LOGIC. THE SLIPPERY SLOPE- BOOGEYMAN OF THE IRRATIONAL, AND THE SELF-SERVING. PT 2.

Before We Take a look at History, lets examine a Current ISSUE THAT OFTEN HAS A VERSION OF THE THE SLIPPERY- SLOPE ARGUMENT USED BY ONE SIDE TO DEFEND THEIR POSITION.

Does This Look Familiar;

BILL OF RIGHTS.

Second Amendment

"A well regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed."

GUN CONTROL VS RIGHT TO OWN, OR POSSESS FIREARMS.

Yes, this is a Topic I have Covered in other Posts, but here were going to look at it from Different Angles.

HERE ARE 3 VERSIONS OF ARGUMENTS USED AGAINST ANY PROPOSALS THAT ARE PUT FORTH TO ESTABLISH NEW GUN CONTROL LAWS.

THAT THE SECOND AMENDMENT GUARANTEES THE INDIVIDUAL CITIZEN THE RIGHT TO OWN AND KEEP GUNS, AND IF THIS RIGHT IS VIOLATED THEN NONE ARE SAFE.

THAT IF WE OUTLAW GUNS FROM PRIVATE OWNERSHIP, IT WILL LEAVE THE CIVILIAN POPULACE DEFENSELESS, AND GIVE THE CRIMINAL ELEMENT A BIG ADVANTAGE.

ANY REGULATIONS ARE JUST THE FIRST STEP IN GOVERNMENT TAKING AWAY ALL FIREARMS.

To Analyze the VALIDITY AND TRUTH OF the Above ASSERTIONS, WE MUST ASK THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS:

-  DO THEY CONSTITUTE DIFFERENT FORMS OF THE SLIPPERY SLOPE ARGUMENT?

-  Are They Making ASSUMPTION(S) OR DRAWING CONCLUSION(S) BASED IN REALITY, OR ARE THEY JUST CASES OF "SCARE TACTICS,'' APPEALING TO EMOTIONS AND PRECONCEIVED IDEAS TO DRAW IN PUBLIC AND POLITICAL SUPPORT?

LOOK FOR PART 3.

FEATURE ARTICLES. HOW CAN WE FIGHT TERRORISM? PT 4.

ANOTHER CATEGORY OF POTENTIAL TERRORIST RECRUITS.

THE POWERLESS PAWN.

Perhaps you are an Individual, who through Indoctrination and Constant Reinforcement, believes that a "HOLY WAR" to Destroy the Enemies of God is an Absolute Necessity.  ( This can be used by any Faith, Religion, or Belief System, for it is a Generic Judgment that allows you to plug in the Deity of your choice.) Perhaps by Living in a Isolated Community, where there is no chance to Interact with others who might look at the World Differently, your frustration at not being able to "Make a Difference" becomes a constant thought in your mind.

Along with this, you also happen to Occupy One of the Lowest Rungs on the Social Ladder in the Culture you Inhabit. YOUR GENDER, ANCESTRY, FINANCIAL STATUS, OR EVEN DISABILITY PREVENTS YOU FROM HAVING ANY SAY, INFLUENCE, OR IMPACT ON YOUR LIFE, THE LIVES OF THOSE AROUND YOU, AND THE COMMUNITY AT LARGE.

However, One Day a Person of Power and Prestige approaches you with an Interesting Offer. Contrary to what you think, or have been told by others, you have the Capability to do Great and Wonderful Things. In Fact, GOD NEEDS YOUR HELP TO CARRY OUT HIS HOLY WORD ON EARTH.

You are Naturally Flattered with this Attention by someone of such Importance, and the IDEA THAT GOD NEEDS YOUR HELP IS A DREAM COME TRUE. YOU ARE NO LONGER A NOBODY TO BE IGNORED AND PUSHED TO THE SIDE, BUT A PERSON TO BE ADMIRED AND LOOKED UPON WITH GREAT RESPECT.

Of Course there is a catch...

LOGIC. WHAT ARE DEDUCTIVE AND INDUCTIVE ARGUMENTS? PART 4.

ARGUMENT #1.                                                 ARGUMENT #2.

PREMISE 1.                                                      PREMISE 1.

ANYONE WHO BELIEVES IN HUMAN                ALL CHRISTIANS ARE 

EVOLUTION IS AN ATHEIST.                             ANTI-SCIENCE.    

PREMISE 2.                                                      PREMISE 2.      

ALL ATHEISTS DO NOT BELIEVE                     IF YOU ARE ANTI- SCIENCE, 

IN GOD.                                                            YOU DO NOT FOLLOW THE 

                                                                        SCIENTIFIC METHOD.             

                                                  

CONCLUSION.                                                CONCLUSION. 

THEREFORE, IF YOU BELIEVE IN                  THEREFORE, IF YOU ARE A

HUMAN EVOLUTION, YOU DO NOT                CHRISTIAN, YOU DO NOT

BELIEVE IN GOD.                                           FOLLOW THE SCIENTIFIC

                                                                      METHOD.

                                     (REPRINTED FROM PART 2.)

IN #1, THOSE CONSIDERED ANTI-RELIGION OR ANTI- GOD ARE SUBJECT TO FALLACIOUS REASONING BY INDIVIDUALS AND GROUPS WHO DEFINE "RELIGION" AND "GOD" SO NARROWLY, THAT ANYONE WHO DISAGREES WITH THEIR STRICT AND SPECIFIC DEFINITION OF SCRIPTURE ARE ATHEISTS. YET, WE FIND THAT MANY INDIVIDUALS WHO ARE EMPLOYED IN SCIENTIFIC FIELDS ARE CONFIRMED THEISTS, BUT DO NOT MIX THEIR RELIGIOUS FAITH WITH ESTABLISHED SCIENTIFIC PRINCIPLES.

In Argument #2, we find a Conclusion that, Essentially, Attacks a Section of Humanity that Adheres to More Traditional Religious Beliefs than those in the First Argument. However, like in the first example, we find those who try to use a VALID DEDUCTIVE ARGUMENT TO JUSTIFY CONCLUSIONS THAT DO NOT STAND UP TO SCRUTINY, AND ARE ULTIMATELY REVEALED TO BE UNTRUTHFUL.

An Analysis of the Second Argument begins with the Premise:

"ALL CHRISTIANS ARE ANTI-SCIENCE."

THIS IS AN ASSERTION THAT MUST BE DEFENDED, AND CANNOT BE ALLOWED TO STAND WITHOUT PROPER DEFINITIONS OF "CHRISTIAN" AND "SCIENCE" BEING PUT FORTH TO JUSTIFY THE WORDING IN THE FIRST PREMISE.

IF WE TAKE THE FOLLOWING EXAMPLE:

"TO BE A CHRISTIAN, ONE MUST ACCEPT THE DIVINE NATURE OF JESUS OF NAZARETH AS BEING THE SON OF GOD."

AS A PROPER DEFINITION FOR BEING A CHRISTIAN, WE MUST ASK THE FOLLOWING:

WHY DOES SUCH A DEFINITION AUTOMATICALLY PLACE THOSE WHO ACCEPT IT AS TRUE, INTO AN ADDITIONAL CATEGORY OF BEING "ANTI-SCIENCE?"

THE ANSWER USUALLY REVOLVES AROUND THE FOLLOWING LINE OF REASONING...

LOOK FOR PT 5.

ETHICS AND MORALITY. THERE IS BEAUTY IN...

There is Beauty in ...

...a childs laugh. An expression of joy from the innocent.

...giving of yourself with no qualifications.

...believing that love is created not manufactured.

...accepting others for who they are, not what they are.

There is Beauty in...

...admitting when your wrong.

...not gloating when you are right.

...remembering we are a product of those who came before.

...what could have been. Sometimes we fail to see what is before us, and the result is unfortunate.

There is Beauty in...

...the decision to do what is right, regardless

of the outcome.

...Humanity, when we don't treat each other

as a means to a goal.

...not allowing another to dictate morality,

when you disagree.

...accepting that your faith is wonderful, but no

more valid then someone elses.

There is Beauty in...

...Trust, Accountability, Fairness and Equality. Because,

when these are gone, what is left?

Nothing, and there is no Beauty in that.

FEATURE ARTICLES. THE SOCIOPATH- HOW DOES THE "FAILED SOCIOPATH"... FAIL?

So what makes the FAILED SOCIOPATH, easier to spot and identify than the ACCOMPLISHED SOCIOPATH and the FUNCTIONAL SOCIOPATH?

In practical terms, in can be summed up with the following Personality Traits that are usually manifested by their actions;

They are often very IMPULSIVE- It is the lack of Mental Discipline and Self- Control, that under certain circumstances, completely breaks down. A complete inability to control their Base Desires, if a certain scenario is played out before them.

Besides acting on Impulse, often to the immediate detriment of their chosen lifestyle, they seem incapable of looking beyond immediate gratification, if a certain situation presents itself. It is often related to the phrase, "They must have snapped." 

However, this drastic change of behavior is sometimes just a reaction to a situation that brought out the True Nature of the Failed Sociopath. This can happen Once, Twice, Several or Many times.

While the Failed Sociopath may react on Pure Impulse, this is often triggered by a perception that the "Time is Right" or "Nows my Chance." It is often the faulty assumption that their immediate actions, have little chance of discovery, or will result in no Negative Personal Consequences.

What makes the Failed Sociopath different from the first two Categories, is the inability to judge the Reality of a given Situation. They are Reckless,Thoughtless and given to taking risks for Immediate Gratification, that the Successful Sociopath would never even consider. To a lesser extent, this is also true of the Functional Sociopath.

While it is true that the Failed Sociopath can get away with certain actions that may never be found out, it is Cunning that they rely on, not objectivity. This means that luck is sometimes the key to getting away with certain Crimes.

SEE PT 16.

FEATURE ARTICLES. THE SOCIOPATH- NOT ALL SOCIOPATHS ARE CREATED EQUAL.

As I have said earlier, it is thought that most people in prison are Sociopaths, but that doesn't mean most Sociopaths are in prison.

Since a Sociopath is an individual who "Lacks a Conscience,"  and feels no remorse for how their actions affect others, the opportunity to manipulate and use people for any reason whatsoever is only limited by Ability, Imagination and Means.

However, what really separates one Sociopath from another, is the ability to control their urges and desires to accomplish what they consider to be important.  This is the misconception that many people have;  They see the wild - eyed crazed individual being placed in hand-cuffs on Television, and think, "Who couldn't see that the guy is a Sociopath, it's so obvious."  Unfortunately, what they are often witnessing is the FAILED SOCIOPATH, who lacks the discipline and control to see beyond immediate or short term returns of physical and/or emotional gratification. 

This brings us to both the Strengths and Weaknesses of Sociopaths, and how they ultimately earn the designation of;  ACCOMPLISHED SOCIOPATH, FUNCTIONAL SOCIOPATH, AND FAILED SOCIOPATH:

THE ABILITY TO DELAY GRATIFICATION-  Remember, the Sociopath is not Mentally ILL.  There is no chemical imbalance or physical deformity in the Brain that causes behavior that cannot be controlled.  In other words, their actions are not dependent upon Biological Factors that are beyond their control.  The choices they make are independent, and are arrived at by the same mental processes that are found in the Mind of all Sane and Rational Human Beings.  However, The Failed Sociopath cannot see the possibility of future events that promise greater rewards, and that by manipulating others and avoiding immediate gratification, promise long term benefits of Needs and Desires met and satisfied.

While it is true that the Failed Sociopath is capable of using and manipulating others to their own benefit, it is usually accomplished very quickly, with the victim only seeing a brief glimpse of the person they may have only just met.  Often, it is a quick "Can I get what I want now moment," in which the Failed Sociopath puts out the "Bait" almost immediately.  The Bait might be;

-  Immediate access to needed aid.

-  A promise of employment.

-  Helping a friend or relative of the potential victim.

-  Providing companionship to the lonely.

Of course, there are many more possible scenarios, but the above examples were given to help put in end to a COMMON MYTH:  THAT THE VICTIM OF A SOCIOPATH IS OFTEN A CRIMINAL OR DEADBEAT, WHO WAS JUST A VICTIM OF THEIR OWN GREEDY DESIRES.

In the case of the Failed Sociopath, the victim is often an individual who is vulnerable, and may have recently suffered a catastrophic loss, or is facing a life changing dilemma that makes them desperate.  These conditions, among others, often provide a veil for the Failed Sociopath, who knows how to work the pain and misery of others.

SEE PT 15.

QUICK HITTERS. OBEYING THE MONEY, AND ACCEPTING THE POWERS THAT BE. PT 2.

Is There a reason why States that have the Highest Poverty Rates, the Lowest Standards of Living, and a Government Determined not to Support Universal Health Care for its Citizens, often seem to support Candidates who care little for the Problems that cause the Most Suffering Among its Citizens?

It almost seems like a Conscious Effort to Reelect those who represent a Status of Wealth and Prosperity that puts them above any questions of Ethical and Moral Behavior. A Free Pass Given once the Dollar Signs Reach a certain number.

There could be a Reason for such Actions, at Least in some cases, Where Wealth and Success is considered the Result of Divine Intervention.  In Other Words;

"GOD REWARDS THOSE WHO OBEY, AND DO HIS GOOD WORKS.  IF GOD DECIDES TO REWARD THEM ON EARTH, THEN IT IS HIS WILL TO SEE THAT THE REST OF US FOLLOW AND LISTEN TO THOSE WHO HAVE BEEN CHOSEN FOR SPECIAL CONSIDERATION."

It is Quite Simply the "GOD BESTOWS GOOD THINGS ON THOSE HE FAVORS" Type of Answer for Economic Disparity.  It is an Almost Surreal Belief that Blames Poverty on Those who are Suffering from its Affects, and not those who Create and Enact Laws that set Public Policy.

It is an Attempt to Place Blame or Guilt, Through Religious Instruction, on those that Suffer. 

ETHICS AND MORALITY. POLITICAL MYTHS- WHAT YOU MAY NOT KNOW. THE GUN CONTROL DEBATE. #1.

There is a BELIEF, PROMOTED INCESSANTLY BY THE NRA, THAT THOSE WHO ADVOCATE GUN CONTROL, WANT TO CONFISCATE ALL FIREARMS POSSESSED BY PRIVATE CITIZENS.  

HOWEVER, 

THIS WAS NEVER THE DESIRE OF THE OBAMA ADMINISTRATION, NOR IS IT THE GOAL OF MOST PROGRESSIVE ORGANIZATIONS, WHO ARE SEEKING A MIDDLE GROUND THAT ALL SIDES OF THE GUN CONTROL DEBATE WOULD FIND ACCEPTABLE.

To accomplish this, a Compromise would the Most Essential Part of Establishing Guidelines that all sides could live with. 

This Means that each side of this CONTROVERSIAL ISSUE must be willing to give a little to the Opposition, Allowing at least part of Their Gun Control Agenda to be placed into Law.  This can be done BY UNDERSTANDING THE FOLLOWING:

REALIZING THAT EVEN IF THE SECOND AMENDMENT IS ONLY APPLIED TO SPECIFIC SECTIONS OF THE POPULATION, DOES NOT MEAN THAT THERE ARE NO OTHER CONSTITUTIONAL PROTECTIONS THAT CAN BE UTILIZED TO PREVENT GOVERNMENT CONFISCATION OF PERSONAL WEAPONS.

THAT OTHER RIGHTS, CONTAINED WITHIN THE BILL OF RIGHTS, ARE NOT WITHOUT LIMITATIONS. THESE GUIDELINES ARE USUALLY SET BY JUDICIAL REVIEW,  TO PREVENT ABUSE BY AN INDIVIDUAL OR GROUP WHO TARGET OTHER AMERICANS FOR UNWARRANTED PERSECUTION. (SPEECH, RELIGION, ASSEMBLY etc.)

HOWEVER, BEFORE WE LOOK AT OTHER RIGHTS, LET US LOOK AT THE SECOND AMENDMENT, AND SEE WHAT IT SAYS.

THE SECOND AMENDMENT READS AS FOLLOWS:

"A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed."

The WORDING IS USUALLY INTERPRETED IN ONE OF THE FOLLOWING TWO WAYS:

-  THAT IT APPLIES TO ALL AMERICANS, IN THAT NO CITIZEN CAN BE DENIED AN OPPORTUNITY TO OWN OR CARRY A FIREARM.

OR...

-  THAT IT CAN ONLY BE APPLIED TO THE MILITIA, (NATIONAL GUARD IN TODAYS TERMS), AND GUARANTEES NOTHING TO ALL OTHER AMERICANS.

TO BE CONTINUED...

WORTHWHILE OR WORTHLESS- A CONSUMER GUIDE TO AVOIDING SCAMS AND SCOUNDRELS. MULTI- LEVEL MARKETING- JUST ANOTHER PYRAMID SCHEME. PT 2.

I think the best way of showing those who are not familiar with MLM Business Practices, is with an example, comparing it to more Traditional Jobs.

Here are a couple of examples of TRADITIONAL PAY\INCOME PLANS THAT YOU COULD FIND FOR A POSITION IN SALES:

BACKGROUND:  ACME INDUSTRIES IS INTRODUCING A NEW LINE OF BIRD BATHS. HOW CAN THEY MARKET AND SELL IT TO THE CONSUMER? 

ACME decides to increase its Sales Force, hiring new Employees who will sell Bird Baths Exclusively.  As an Inducement to attract top Sales People, the pay structure is as follows:

TRADITIONAL SCENARIO #1.

-  Pay is 100% COMMISSION.  Each Unit sold will earn the Salesperson 40% of the Tag or Sales Price.  The Birdbaths Retail for $1,000 Each, or $800.00 Wholesale.  About 80% of Leads are Provided by Company, with a 20% Cold Calls Quota each Employee is Responsible For.  

The Breakdown is as follows;

SOLD AT RETAIL =  $1,000.00

                               x 40%

                                      ------------

                                       $400.00 COMMISSION.

SOLD AT WHOLESALE=  $800.00

                                           x 40%

                                        -------------

                                          $320.00 COMMISSION.

So, if a Salesperson averages 2 Retail and 2 Wholesale items sold a Week, the pay would be:  2 x $400.00= $800.00  +   2 x $320.00= $640.00.

                                          TOTAL-  $1,440\Week.

TRADITIONAL  SCENARIO #2.

-  Pay is $200.00 PER WEEK SALARY.  In addition,  20% COMMISSION on the Tag or Sales Price.  If we use the same  # of Items Sold per Week, it gives us:

SOLD AT RETAIL = 2 X $200.00= $400.00 COMMISSION.

SOLD AT WHOLESALE=  2 X $160.00=  $320.00 COMMISSION.

TOTAL-  $720.00\Week COMMISSION + $200.00\Week SALARY= $920.00\Week.

In the next part, we will look at the Pay Structure for a Typical MLM.

ETHICS AND MORALITY. HEALTH CARE. PT 5. UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE- A PRACTICAL APPROACH.

The scenario from part 4 was, of course, a fictional example.

However, all you have to do is change the job description and plug in different numbers to find out that this can be applied to any full time employee who is down-sized to part time, to avoid being offered employer subsidized health care.

Ignoring or disagreeing with the result in the story does not answer the questions that it poses.

• All working Americans are, in essence, producers.  It might be a Cook who prepares X number of meals per day, or a Truck Driver who makes a certain number of deliveries during a scheduled shift.  This also holds true for white-collar jobs.  Teachers produce educated students during a school year and Doctors treat a certain number of patients each day.

• When an employee has their work hours cut and are now part-time, they can no longer produce the same results achieved during a full-time work week.
• This reduction in out-put must be justified, if the only reason was to avoid offering Medical Insurance.
• The bottom line is simply this; Is there a reasonable explanation in shifting any full-time employee or employees to part-time, in that it will  be more profitable because they do not have an employer based Health Care plan?

What the scenario does not address is the long term benefits of having an employee, who did not have medical insurance, into one that has it available if needed.  Here are a couple of more points that should be considered;

• Many employees come to work ill, because they cannot afford the double whammy of paying a Hospitable Bill and losing a days pay.  At least with medical insurance the financial hit would not be so bad.  By staying home and receiving proper care, they are not on the job possibly infecting co-workers.
• Now preventive and rehabilitative medical care is available.  Not only is sickness treated properly, but future illness can now be prevented and injuries can be treated and healed more efficiently.  Loss of work production is decreased, for there are fewer days missed.

What amazes me is the number of Americans,without medical insurance, who don't question their politicians motivation for trying to prevent Universal Health Care.  That is a question that Medical Science cannot answer.

THE BERMUDA TRIANGLE. CASE #1. USS CYCLOPS. PT 5.

The Disappearance of the CYCLOPS, While Tragic, was never considered to be an Exceptional Event, Unparalleled in Maritime History. The Loss of a Ship, without a Definitive Cause, is not an Extreme Rarity.  The Fate of Many Ships, Lost Through The Centuries, have never been Satisfactorily Explained.

The CYCLOPS did indeed Disappear, but like so many other MISSING SHIPS, PLANES, PEOPLE ETC., THERE JUST ISN'T ENOUGH EVIDENCE TO CONCLUDE THAT IT WAS CAUSED IN A PARTICULAR MANNER.  MOST LIKELY, IT WAS A SERIES OF INCIDENTS, COUPLED WITH CONDITIONS THAT DEVELOPED DURING THE VOYAGE, THAT LED TO THE DISASTER.

However, this does not Mean the Following,  A LINE OF REASONING OFTEN USED BY SUPPORTERS OF THE PARANORMAL AND PSEUDOSCIENCE:

SINCE THE EXACT CAUSE(S) IS UNKNOWN, WE CAN SPECULATE THAT MAYBE UFOS, CRYPTIDS, OTHER DIMENSIONS, THE LOST CITY OF ATLANTIS etc., are possible causes.

Yes, and Maybe it was the JOLLY GREEN GIANT, THE LIVING DEAD, SEA MONKEYS, THE FLYING DUTCHMAN... ON AD NAUSEAM.  THERE IS NO MORE REASON TO BELIEVE THAT THESE ARE TRUE, OR NOT TRUE, THAN THE USUAL FRINGE EXPLANATIONS TROTTED OUT BY THOSE PEDDLING THE PARANORMAL IN BOOKS, MAGAZINES, TV SHOWS, RADIO...

THE INABILITY TO PIN DOWN, WITH A DEGREE OF CERTAINTY, THE 

EXACT CAUSES, DOESN'T MEAN THEY DON'T EXIST.  WHY?

LOGIC, CRITICAL THINKING AND THE SCIENTIFIC METHOD DON'T 

WORK ON UNJUSTIFIED ASSUMPTIONS, BAD EVIDENCE, AND WILD 

SPECULATIONS WITH NO REASONABLE PLAUSIBILITY OF OCCURRENCE.

We'll look at the Some of the More Rational Explanations Regarding the Loss

of the CYCLOPS in the next Post.

THE MYSTERIOUS WORLD.

THE BERMUDA TRIANGLE.  PT 5.

As I said in Part 4, there are things that are not revealed in a story you may read about a case involving the Bermuda Triangle, that give an indication about the "Reality" of the facts given in the story.

For example, in my sample story the Abandoned Schooner "ALBATROSS", was searched and then left to the Elements.  This would probably have never happened in a True Story.  

Maritime Salvage Laws would have allowed a Prize Crew to be placed Aboard the Deserted Vessel, who would then Sail the Ship into Port. This would mean a Substantial Reward for the Captain and Crew of the "JUPITER", either from the Owners, or the Insurance carried against loss.  Leaving a Seaworthy Ship in the Middle of the Ocean would make little sense. 

Getting back to the story itself, there is other information not given that would cast doubt about the Details being a Road Map to the Truth.

How so?

-  We have the Name of the Deserted Ship, and its supposed Destination, but not its Port of Embarkation and Cargo.

-  The Ships Master, and the Current Owners are not revealed.

-  In Fact, other then the Name "ALBATROSS", and that it is a Schooner, nothing else is revealed to aid in Researching the Event of its Disappearance.  Things such as Launch Date, Sailing History, Home Port, and Ownership History are not reported.

This was, of course, a Fictional Story.  However, when you read some of the "Strange Tales of the Sea",  that are included in the Bermuda Triangle Legend, look for Omissions like these, and consider how Plausible the "TRUE STORY" really is.

Look for Specific Examples given in Future Posts.

LOGIC. THE FALLACIES OF: SPECIAL PLEADING, APPEAL TO A HIGHER POWER, LACK OF FAITH, SPECIAL KNOWLEDGE. PART 3.

Lets move on to the next two examples.

3)  SUFFERING CAUSED BY LACK OF PROPER ACTION.-  Example.

Person #1-  "Did you hear the latest News Report.  They say that the Hurricane is Bearing down on us, and should hit in the next couple of days. They suggest we evacuate to Inland Areas to avoid the Storm Surge and High Winds.

Person #2-  "There is no need to worry.  I went to Church today, and Prayed for the Safety of Everyone.  Look at Scripture, there are plenty of Prayers that will Ensure that God will intercede on our behalf and keep us free from Harm."  

THIS IS THE "APPEAL TO A GREATER POWER" FALLACY.

4)  DOUBLE STANDARDS IN THE LEGAL SYSTEM.-  Example.

JUDGE-  "We are a Nation of Laws, and each of us must assume the Responsibility for our Actions. By Stealing from your Employer, you put the Business in Danger of Bankruptcy.  In addition, your fellow employees could have lost Their Jobs."

CONVICTED EMBEZZLER-  "In my case, Your Honor, there was a good reason to take the money. Many of the Supervisors and Employees have Gambling and Drinking Problems.  The Lack of Profits would Force them to Prioritize Their take Home Pay, and look to the needs of Family First.  I was helping them."

THIS IS THE "SPECIAL PLEADING" FALLACY. 

Remember, these are not meant to Discourage Faith, or Beliefs that cannot be examined through Academic Methods.  Faith is Personal Choice, and should remain that way.  However, when Actions Dictated by Faith involve the Possible Well- Being of Others, Government has a Duty to Protect those who may Suffer Adverse Consequences of Choices made on Their Behalf.

THE MYSTERIOUS WORLD. THE WORLD OF CRYPTOZOOLOGY. PT 3.

Before you can even begin to Scientifically Justify a Belief in the Existence of a Legendary or Mythological Creature, several Criteria must be met.

1)  What Type of Physical Evidence are you using to back up the Claim? Is it still Available for Study and Analysis by Independent and Qualified Researchers, who have access to the Best Technology?

2)  How was any and all Evidence Obtained?  The Who, What, Where, When and How Set of Questions that can Validate or Invalidate any Conclusions regarding the Reality of the Creature in Question?

3)  Is the Evidence best explained by the Introduction of a Previously Unknown Member of the Natural World, or do the Laws of Probability Indicate a more likely Solution?

4)  To what Degree are you Relying on Anecdotal or Eyewitness Testimony to Support a Conclusion that Asserts the Existence of a Real and Tangible Entry into the Animal Kingdom?

5)  If these Creatures Exist in the Wild, and their numbers are Large Enough to Populate an Extended Area or Region, how many must be living to Overcome the Problem of Genetic Diversity?

Remember, much of what you see on Television regarding Cryptozoology is Virtually Worthless, from a Scientific or Critical Thinking Perspective. Much of the time you are given Stories and Legends that are nothing more than Wild Speculations, repackaged for Mass Market Entertainment.

However, when you Ignore the SCIENTIFIC METHOD AND THE RULES OF LOGIC, YOU ARE LEFT WITH OPINIONS THAT ARE LITTLE MORE THAN EMPTY WORDS.  THESE ARE OFTEN USED TO DUPE THE GULLIBLE AND THE DESPERATE.

A Good Start to Identifying this Line of Irrational Thinking, is to see how they stand up to the Questions that are asked above.

Real Science is done when these, and Other Pertinent Questions are Answered, and not Ignored.

In the next Installment, we will begin looking at the Different Creatures that make up the Cryptozoological World.

END OF PART 3.

THE MYSTERIOUS WORLD. THE BERMUDA TRIANGLE. PT 4.

After the inspection of the hold, First Mate Martin told the Inquiry that he ordered the return to the 

JUPITER by the Boarding Party.

"Finding no Trace of the Crew, we returned to the Launch, and proceeded back to the Ship.

Captain Wallace, Master of the JUPITER, was then brought back to be questioned by Maritime Officials.

When asked what he did after receiving First Mate Martins report, Wallace replied that the apparent Abandonment of the ALBATROSS, by its crew, made no sense.

"She was reported to be Sound and Watertight, the reason for leaving her was puzzling."

Wallace then continued, "I realized little could be accomplished by remaining alongside this Ship, and being on a Schedule with the JUPITER, I raised Sail and continued on Course to the next Port of Call."

-----  Well that is the end of the story.  As I said at the beginning, this is a work of Fiction.  However, it has Elements in it that are common among many Weird Stories and Legends told about the BERMUDA TRIANGLE.

However, it is these similarities among many of the stories that casts doubt on the Reality or Truth regarding many parts of the Tale.  In fact, sometimes it leaves us with the Conclusion that the Story is 100% Fiction.  The Reason is simple;  That the Research is often incomplete, and that many of the related facts are of Dubious Quality.  Additionally, the Omission of Certain Data makes Identifying the Story as a real event virtually impossible.

What do I mean?  Lets take a look at the body of the story.

1)  The story Initially starts out as relating a story that seems to be taken from a Newspaper or Periodical.  Yet, the name is never revealed, nor is the Identity of the Writer or the Reporter.  The Complete Date may not be revealed, making Research Verifying the details very difficult.

2)  Official sounding Terms like "Maritime Officials", "Inquiry", "Testimony" are often included to give the story an Illusion of Authenticity, since "Government" became involved in the Mystery.  They are also Vague Enough to sound Realistic and Plausible, but Specific Agencies and Individuals are not named or Identified.

Sometimes, it's what is not said or revealed in the story, that gives us the biggest clue about the Authenticity of the Tale.

END PART 4.