FEATURE ARTICLES. THE SOCIOPATH- A DANGER ALL AROUND US. PT 19.

As I said in part 18, the FAILED SOCIOPATH is the Easiest to Identify, but those who are in Crisis and Vulnerable may not see Their TRUE NATURE UNTIL IT IS TO LATE.

By To Late, I mean Allowing  the Failed Sociopath Access to Intimate Parts of Their Lives.  It could be Financial, Social, Sexual, or the Most Personal and Devastating Category: FAMILY AND FRIENDS.

In Many of These Cases, perhaps even the Majority, it is others who see the Danger First, seeing this New Part of Someones Life for what they really are; AMORAL OPPORTUNISTS WHO SENSE WEAKNESS AND VULNERABILITY MOVING INTO THE LIFE OF AN INDIVIDUAL, AND ATTEMPTING TO CONTROL THIS NEW VICTIM SO THEY CAN GAIN THE FINANCIAL, EMOTIONAL OR SPIRITUAL UPPER- HAND.

Unfortunately,  Although the Failed Sociopath is Fairly Easy to spot, especially if your the One in the Relationship, IT TAKES INTELLECTUAL AND MENTAL DISCIPLINE TO ADMIT THAT YOUR BEING VICTIMIZED.  This is Something Many are Unwilling to Consider, at Least in the Beginning.

Nobody likes to Admit They have been Fooled.  It is even more TRAUMATIC WHEN IT IS SOMEONE THE VICTIM THOUGHT CARED ABOUT THEM, EVEN TO THE POINT OF CREATING A FACADE OF LOVE AND DEVOTION.

SO WHAT CAN YOU DO?

1)  BE HONEST WITH YOURSELF, AND SEE THINGS FOR WHAT THEY REALLY ARE, NOT WHAT YOU WANT THEM TO BE.

Nothing can Really be Accomplished in Removing the SOCIOPATH FROM YOUR LIFE, IF YOU REFUSE TO ACKNOWLEDGE THAT THERE IS A PROBLEM. The Failed Sociopath, or for that Matter any Category of Sociopath, Counts on Wishful Thinking and the Fear of Public Exposure about the Truth of the Relationship, to Work in Their Behavior.

Perhaps the First Test in Measuring the Odds that you are Dealing with a Sociopath, Particularly if it is Close  Personal Relationship, should be something like the following:

REVERSE THE ROLES, AND ASK YOURSELF THIS QUESTION;  IF I TREATED THIS PERSON IN AN IDENTICAL MANNER, WOULD I CONSIDER MY BEHAVIOR APPROPRIATE?  FURTHER, WOULD I EXPECT THIS PERSON TO STAY WITH ME, OR PERMANENTLY LEAVE THE RELATIONSHIP?

In other Words, if you wouldn't Treat Someone in such a HEINOUS MANNER, why would you allow them to GET AWAY WITH SUCH BEHAVIOR BEING DIRECTED AT YOU?

SENATOR JOHN McCAIN- A SENSE OF DUTY TO HIS COUNTRY... NOW AND THEN. UPDATED...12/2/2017.

THIS IS WHAT HONOR SOUNDS LIKE.
"I cannot in good conscience vote for Graham-Cassidy. A bill impacting so many lives deserves a bipartisan approach." SENATOR JOHN McCAIN.

UPDATED...12/2/2017...MY MISTAKE, I GUESS HONOR IS FOR SALE. I SHOULD HAVE KNOWN BETTER. HOW MANY RELATIVES AND ANCESTORS OF THOSE WHO LOST THEIR LIVES FOR THIS COUNTRY, WILL NO LONGER HAVE AFFORDABLE MEDICAL INS. HOW "PROUD" NIMITZ WOULD BE.

LOGIC. A LOGICAL FALLACY FROM THE "ANIMAL KINGDOM?" PT 2.

The RED HERRING is a common Logical Fallacy.  Unfortunately, sometimes it is hard to pick up on, because of its Flagrant Absurdity.

It is the Literal, "COMING OUT OF LEFT FIELD", type of response.  It catches many Debaters off guard, who try to find the Reasoning behind it, but cannot because it is Essentially Nonsensical. 

It is used for many different reasons, and with a little practice can be a Formidable Weapon to create Doubt and Dissension among Opponents and Casual Observers. 

It can be a Developed Skill, used to confuse the Issue at Hand, and directed at those unfamiliar with the Rules of Deductive Reasoning. 

Naturally, there are certain Professions that can turn this Fallacy into an Effective Tool.  It can be used to gain support, or influence others to make decisions that are not considered carefully, and without an eye towards possible Deception.

Here is an example;

Politicians-  There are many issues that a Constituency might consider important, but for those Voters voicing opinions that might come across as Narrow Minded, Prejudicial, or Self- Centered, when viewed by the Opposition or the Undecided, an Unscrupulous Politician can provide a "RED HERRING" that creates a Scapegoat or Phantom Enemy, to justify the opinions put forth by that part of the Electorate. 

Remember, the RED HERRING HAS NOTHING TO WITH TRUTH, FACTS, AND THE REALITY OF A GIVEN SITUATION.  ITS ONLY PURPOSE IS TO HIDE THE ACTUAL REASONING BEHIND THE OPINIONS BEING EXPRESSED.

IT IS A FALLACY THAT LOOKS FOR EXCUSES TO EXPLAIN THE SUPPORT FOR CERTAIN ISSUES, OR THE JUDGMENT THAT IS BEING EXPRESSED ON GIVEN SUBJECTS. 

LOGIC. IT'S NOT JUST FOR VULCANS, AND VIEWERS OF "THE BIG BANG THEORY." #4 PT 3.

Remember one thing:  A Doctor or Lawyer dispensing advice or opinions on a network T.V. or radio 

program is mindful that the show is there primarily to entertain.  It might also educate, but that is secondary.

Often this means promoting, or at least not being critical of dubious and unproven health products, and offering legal advice without being sure of the true nature of the matter as it pertains to our legal system.

Acquiring the education and passing the necessary hurdles to legally practice Medicine or Law in the U.S. is a tremendous accomplishment, both intellectually and emotionally. You don't fake your way through Medical or Law school, you earn it.

However, what the general public must understand is that Doctors and Lawyers are, after all, still human beings. Dedicated and brilliant as they may seem, some will succumb to the influences of fame and easy money.  This can sometimes lead to questionable judgments that are not in the best interests of the Audience, Society or the Public Image of the given profession.

Here are some guidelines to keep in mind:

-  No MD is an expert in all fields of medicine, and no attorney is an expert in all parts of the law.  Is the opinion or advice really in their area of expertise, if not, how far removed are they?

-  To what degree will they profit in choosing one side over another, do they have a vested interest in the outcome?

-  Are they promoting themselves as having special knowledge or expertise that is not known or available to others?

-  Sometimes your judged by the company you keep.  Who are their allies?  What types of Individuals or groups agree with the opinions being offered, and who are opposed?

-  This last one especially applies to the medical field-  What type or manner of evidence is provided supporting their point of view?  Is it based on Proper Peer Reviewed Clinical Trials?  Can it withstand scrutiny by the Scientific Method?  How much of the evidence is anecdotal?  Anecdotal evidence is virtually useless in establishing the worth of any drug or treatment.

So, no matter who you are watching or listening to, always keep an open mind.

Your life may literally depend on it.

Look for future entries in this category.

LOGIC. IT'S NOT JUST FOR VULCANS, AND VIEWERS OF "THE BIG BANG THEORY." #4 PT 2.

Don't get me wrong, when looking for solutions, it is best to seek out those whose Education, Knowledge and Training are best suited to provide answers.

However, just because someone has M.D. , PhD , LLD, or any other designation on their door or business card, does not indicate Infallibility.

Further, one may have done great things in their Field or Profession in the past, but that does not automatically guarantee success in the future.

So, how are we to know if the advice being given is valid and practical, or is the self-serving ramblings of a self- appointed expert? Here are some guidelines:

ABILITY OR PROFICIENCY IN ONE PROFESSION OR SUBJECT  DOES NOT MEAN THAT THEY ARE QUALIFIED TO ADVISE OUTSIDE THEIR REALM OF EXPERTISE- This should be self-explanatory, yet I see it time and time again;

-  Actors advising others on matters of health.

-  Athletes giving financial advice.

-  PhD.s in one discipline, commenting on other

academic fields.

-  Talk show hosts dispensing "Words of Wisdom"

on all sorts of problems, while having no real expert 

knowledge on any subject.

-  Politicians commenting on legal matters, when in 

some cases they have little or no formal training. 

While these might seem obvious to some, there are other

examples that are not so easy to spot.  These are cases 

where the individual may be trained in a certain discipline or

occupation, but is not qualified to speak or advise in every area

of their chosen profession.

This is a situation we often find when discussing two specific fields,

that require special post- graduate education leading to proper 

licensing. They are each bound by a strict Code of Ethics, and can

be sanctioned for any violations.  Yet, these specialists are needed 

to help others, often in situations that can have a permanent life- long

affect that cannot be changed.  I am referring to the MEDICAL and LEGAL

Professions.

End PT 2.

THE HUMAN RIGHTS CAMPAIGN. SUMMER OF ACTION 2017.

We’re keeping those who have been impacted by Hurricane Irma in our thoughts today, tomorrow and in the days ahead. Please join us in thinking of the families and communities who have been affected, and all who remain in its path. Thank you. -Team HRC

Thank You David, for making the SUMMER OF ACTION a success!

David, I was floored when I saw these numbers. Look at all of the incredible ways our community came together to make HRC’s Summer of Action a pivotal moment in our resistance. I mean it when I say that we couldn’t do this work without the dedication of friends like you. This year has not been easy, and it has been anything but predictable. But with you by our side, we’ve overcome hate — and we will continue to do so, together. The Summer of Action may be over, but the important role you play is not. It will take every single one of us speaking out and standing up for our beliefs to reach the day when LGBTQ people are truly equal. Cathy Nelson Senior Vice President, Membership

FEATURE ARTICLES. THE SOCIOPATH- A DANGER ALL AROUND US. PT 18.

FEATURE ARTICLES.

THE SOCIOPATH-  A DANGER ALL AROUND US.  PT 18.

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

The Most Important Thing is to Realize what you are Facing.

Unfortunately, one of the Characteristics of the Sociopath, is the Ability to Hide Their True Nature. 

Depending on Their Level of Sociopathic Discipline, in being able to use others without Discovery or Negative Consequences, they could hide within a FAMILY, SOCIAL GROUP, OR JOB SETTING for Years.

However, there are Warning Signs that even the ACCOMPLISHED SOCIOPATH may have Trouble hiding.  

If you are Truly Honest and Objective with Yourself, and your Situation, You should be able to understand whether or not the person your Dealing with has Sociopathic Characteristics.

 

Unfortunately, this is easier to spot with the more time you spend Interacting with the Individual in question. Obviously, Living with someone has more Interpersonal Conflict than you would have in the Workplace.  In Turn, the Workplace offers more opportunities for Confrontation and Turmoil than somebody you Socialize with in Clubs, Groups, or other Social Settings.

1)  IF YOU ARE DEALING WITH THE FAILED SOCIOPATH.

It Doesn't take an M.D OR PhD., to realize if you are being Treated with Callous Indifference.  If someone always puts their needs and desires ahead of yours, it should become apparent fairly quickly.  The CONSTANT LIES AND DECEPTIONS that are part of everyday life with the FAILED SOCIOPATH, BECOME APPARENT FAIRLY QUICKLY.  The SUPERFICIAL CHARM THAT THEY EXHIBITED TO GAIN YOUR ACCEPTANCE INITIALLY,  QUICKLY DISAPPEARS BECAUSE OF THEIR LACK OF SOPHISTICATION.

In the WORKPLACE, the Failed Sociopath fails fairly quickly, which is exhibited by Their often Spotty and Turbulent Work History.  However, the Failed Sociopath does the most Damage, when they enter the lives of those who are Most Vulnerable.

NOTE:  VULNERABLE-  DOES NOT MEAN MENTALLY ILL, DESPERATE, STUPID ETC., OR ANY OTHER ILL-CONSIDERED DEROGATORY TERMS USED TO INSULT VICTIMS.  EVERYONE, AT ONE TIME OR ANOTHER, CAN BECOME SUSCEPTIBLE TO THOSE WHO SEEM TO OFFER RELIEF, COMFORT, OR SAFETY AT TIMES OF EXTREME STRESS.

LOOK FOR PART 19.

BARACK OBAMA AND IMMIGRATION. PART 4.

INTRODUCTION:  AS THE U.S. CONTINUES TO GRAPPLE WITH DONALD TRUMPS "POLICIES," I THOUGHT A TRIP DOWN MEMORY LANE WOULD SHOW US HOW THEN PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA ATTEMPTED TO ADDRESS THE IMMIGRATION PROBLEM. 

POST #20.  THE PRESIDENTS IMMIGRATION SPEECH- WHAT DOES HE ACTUALLY SAY?  PT 4.

(First Published on 12/7/2014.)

Let us return to the Presidents Speech on Immigration.

Early on, he relates a Compromise Bill that Passed the Senate last Year:

"I WORKED WITH CONGRESS ON A COMPREHENSIVE FIX... 68 DEMOCRATS, REPUBLICANS AND INDEPENDENTS...TO PASS A BIPARTISAN BILL IN THE SENATE...IT WAS A COMPROMISE."

The Bill, According to the President, Would have;  "Doubled the Number of Border Patrol Agents, while giving undocumented immigrants a pathway to citizenship, if they paid a fine, started paying their taxes and went to the back of the line."

Obviously this didn't pass through the House of Representatives, because House Leadership refused to hold a Vote on the Bill.

The Question becomes simply one of WHY?  If an Elected Official truly believed the Bill was wrong and ineffective, what led to this conclusion?

WAS IT:

-  DOUBLING THE NUMBER OF BORDER PATROL AGENTS.

-  ALLOWING UNDOCUMENTED IMMIGRANTS A CHANCE TO EARN CITIZENSHIP BY:  PAYING A FINE, MAKING TAX PAYMENTS, AND WAITING THEIR TURN BEHIND OTHERS ALREADY INVOLVED IN THE PROCESS.

-   A REASON  NOT SPECIFICALLY ADDRESSED BY THE BILL?  

Further, if the House Leadership was convinced that this was Irresponsible, and not supported by most Americans, a Vote would have made their position that much more Powerful.

President Obama goes on to say;  "... I CONTINUE TO BELIEVE THAT THE BEST WAY TO SOLVE THIS PROBLEM... WORKING TOGETHER... TO PASS THAT KIND OF COMMON SENSE LAW."

In other Words, The President is saying; I WANT TO COMPROMISE, SO STOP TRYING TO ACT ALONE. REFUSING TO NEGOTIATE IS A STUMBLING BLOCK TOWARDS PROGRESS, AND FINDING LASTING SOLUTIONS TO THIS ISSUE.

With that being said, the Presidents Response to such Tactics is the Following Course of Action, stated in the Body of the Speech;

"BUT UNTIL THAT HAPPENS, THERE ARE ACTIONS I HAVE THE LEGAL AUTHORITY TO TAKE AS PRESIDENT, THE SAME KINDS OF ACTIONS TAKEN BY DEMOCRATIC AND REPUBLICAN PRESIDENTS BEFORE ME, THAT WILL HELP MAKE OUR IMMIGRATION SYSTEM MORE FAIR AND MORE JUST."

LOOK FOR PART 5.

AT LEAST, THE SPIRIT OF REPUBLICAN COOPERATION HAS CHANGED SINCE THEN, RIGHT?-  DAVID.

BARACK OBAMA AND IMMIGRATION. PART 3.

INTRODUCTION:  AS THE U.S. CONTINUES TO GRAPPLE WITH DONALD TRUMPS "POLICIES," I THOUGHT A TRIP DOWN MEMORY LANE WOULD SHOW US HOW THEN PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA ATTEMPTED TO ADDRESS THE IMMIGRATION PROBLEM. 

POST #19.  THE PRESIDENTS IMMIGRATION SPEECH- WHAT DOES HE ACTUALLY SAY?  PT 3.
(First Published on 11/30/2014.)




Again, this is taken from the Transcript of PRESIDENT OBAMAS speech on Immigration.

"Today we have more agents and technology deployed to secure our southern border than at any time in our history. And over the past six years illegal border crossings have been cut by more than half."

What do we find if these Statements are checked?

Well, referring to the number of Border Patrol Agents, this is what we find:

YEAR                                      2013            2010            2005            2000

TOTAL # OF AGENTS             21,391.         20,558.        11,264.         9,212.

ON STAFF. (U.S.)

# ASSIGNED TO THE              18,611.         17,535.        9,891.           8,580.

SOUTHWEST BORDER

SECTOR. 

We see it is true that the Total # of Agents has increased, both Nationally and in the Southwestern Operations Area.

Here are the APPREHENSION NUMBERS FOR 2011- 2013, FOR THE U.S. BORDER PATROL, FOR INDIVIDUALS ILLEGALLY ENTERING U.S.           

YEAR                                    2013                      2012                    2011 

TOTAL # OF                        420,789.                 364,768.              340,252.

APPREHENSIONS.                                

U.S. (ALL SECTORS.)

# OF APPREHENSIONS      414,397.                 356,873.              327,577.

IN THE SOUTHWEST 

BORDER SECTOR.

We can see that in just 3 years, the TOTAL # OF APPREHENSIONS HAS INCREASED FROM 340,252 TO 420,789.  THE # FOR THE SOUTHWEST SECTOR HAS GONE UP FROM 327,577 TO  414,397.  

THE ABOVE NUMBERS INDICATE AN INCREASE IN TOTAL STAFF, AND IN THE NUMBER OF APPREHENSIONS.  THIS IS ESPECIALLY TRUE IN THE SOUTHWEST SECTOR.

(SOURCES-  THE U.S. BORDER PATROL, AND THE U.S. DEPT. OF HOMELAND SECURITY.)

LOOK FOR PART 4.

Date-  11/30/2014.

BARACK OBAMA AND IMMIGRATION. PART 2.

INTRODUCTION:  AS THE U.S. CONTINUES TO GRAPPLE WITH DONALD TRUMPS "POLICIES," I THOUGHT A TRIP DOWN MEMORY LANE WOULD SHOW US HOW THEN PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA ATTEMPTED TO ADDRESS THE IMMIGRATION PROBLEM. 

POST #18.  THE PRESIDENTS IMMIGRATION SPEECH- WHAT DOES HE ACTUALLY SAY?  PT 2.

(First Published on 11/26/2014.)

(PLEASE REMEMBER THERE IS A DIFFERENCE BETWEEN UNDOCUMENTED IMMIGRANTS, AND THOSE SEEKING REFUGEE STATUS. THEY ARE NOT THE SAME, IT'S TWO DIFFERENT ISSUES.)

Lets continue with the analysis of the Presidents speech.

"...and undocumented immigrants who desperately want to embrace those responsibilities see little option but to remain in the shadows, or risk their families being torn apart."

This is a Moral Judgment on the choices given to Undocumented Immigrants. That if they reveal Themselves, it would result in their being forced out of the Country. This could mean Physical Separation from their Minor Children.  The President is implying that if there was an alternative solution, that keeps families together, it would be welcomed by those who want to stay in the U.S., and live up to all the responsibilities of residing in this Country.

Moving on:  "It's been this way for decades.  And for decades we haven't done much about it.  When I took office, I committed to fixing this broken immigration system, And I began by doing what I could to secure our borders."

The President has acknowledged the problem, but reminds us that he didn't create it.  He is also accusing former administrations of doing little to address the Issue.  However, he committed to solving the problem while in office, and reaffirms it.  

"Today we have more agents and technology deployed to secure our southern border than at any time in our history. And over the past six years illegal border crossings have been cut by more than half."

LOOK FOR PART 3.