FEATURE ARTICLES.

FEATURE ARTICLES.                                                                                       THE SOCIOPATH-  A DANGER ALL AROUND US.  PT 1. When certain acts of violence are reported in the media, how often do we hear the following; "How could he do that to his best friend." "Why would a mother hurt her own children." "He's such a nice guy and a good family man, he can't be guilty." "The victims were so innocent, why would anyone want to hurt them."  Of course there are numerous other examples I could use, but the point is clear.  Even after thousands of examples throughout the centuries, we are still caught off-guard by acts of seemingly senseless violence and brutality. However, we shouldn't be.  There is now, and perhaps has always been, a certain segment of Humanity that thrives on the misery they cause to others.THE SOCIOPATH. I will define the Sociopath as; An individual with a fully developed and ingrained personality that; Uses others as tools to satisfy individual desires. Lacks remorse or empathy for the pain and suffering they cause to others. Has a Grandiose, Inflated self-image that makes them feel like they are the center of the universe. Enjoys Deceiving and Manipulating people, often for no other reason then a sense of power. Positive words such as Dignity, Honor and Duty or negative words such as Cruelty, Prejudice and Suffer are meaningless. They represent concepts foreign to the Sociopath. To put it simply, the Sociopath represents a personality that most of us cannot comprehend or identify with. That is where the Danger lies.  They use this lack of knowledge to cultivate new victims who are unaware of their true nature. See pt.2 in a future posting. Date- 6/16/2013. Scroll down for a continuation of the article.  FEATURE ARTICLES.  THE SOCIOPATH-  A DANGER ALL AROUND US.  PT 2. The Sociopath has often been labeled as mentally ill, or even insane.  As human beings, it is often difficult for us to judge extreme behavior.  Since we often cannot place ourselves in situations that would lead us to act as the Sociopath does, the result is defining such actions as a product of a diseased mind.  However, the Sociopath has no physical or chemical abnormalities.  They process information in a rational manner, and act on what they perceive to be in their best interest.  The difference is that most people consider the affect on other individuals and society as a whole to be of value to them physically and/or emotionally.  The Sociopath doesn't. Don't get me wrong,  There are certain conditions that can cause an individual to act with great violence and cruelty, for which they cannot be held accountable either morally or legally. This is commonly called PSYCHOTIC BEHAVIOR. Often, the Sociopath and the Psychopath are grouped together as being one and the same.  However, this is not true.  The person with a diagnosis of Psychosis has a real and identifiable condition, resulting from a physical abnormality and/or chemical imbalance within the brain. The Sociopath has no such problems. Look for pt.3 in a future posting. Date- 6/23/2013. Scroll down for future posts.  FEATURE ARTICLES. THE SOCIOPATH-  A DANGER ALL AROUND US.  PT 3. To often when we judge the extreme behavior of others, the conclusions drawn are based on faulty assumptions.  When someone is labeled with terms such as "Crazy", "Maniacal", "Deranged" etc, by the general public, it is based solely on the perceived mental state of the individual.  Their actions, based upon our concept of proper moral behavior, are so outlandish we conclude that they must be mentally ill. This is an unfortunate line of reasoning, for the Sociopath is basically given an excuse to avoid responsibility for their actions.  However, this judgment is not made through proper mental evaluation, BUT HOW IT DIFFERS FROM OUR OWN SET OF MORAL PRINCIPLES.  SINCE THE BEHAVIOR SHOCKS US AND FLIES IN THE FACE OF HOW WE EXPECT PEOPLE TO BEHAVE, IT MUST BE MENTAL ILLNESS.  THIS IS AN EXAMPLE OF TAKING A PURELY MORAL JUDGMENT AND ASSUMING THAT IT ALSO GIVES AN ACCURATE READING ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH. THIS IS A CONCLUSION WE CANNOT REASONABLY DRAW.  MORAL BEHAVIOR AND PSYCHOLOGY ARE TWO DISTINCT AND SEPARATE DISCIPLINES. You must realize the Sociopath does not feel they are mentally ill, so they do not seek treatment.  They are perfectly content with their lifestyle, and see no reason to change it.  Ironically, they often feel that it is everyone else who is suffering from a mental malady.  Since the Sociopath is not hindered by feelings of guilt and cannot empathize with others, they conclude these traits are personality flaws that can be exploited.(Continued in a future posting.) Date-7/14/2013. Scroll down for future posts.  FEATURE ARTICLES. WHAT DOES THE U.S. CONSTITUTION ACTUALLY SAY ABOUT RELIGION?  PT 1. When Americans discuss religious freedom as it is referenced in the constitution,  they generally refer to the First Amendment.  However, Religion is also addressed in one other place in the body of the document.  This is Article Six.  In my opinion, this section is of great importance, even more than the first amendment, when determining what role religion would play in the formation of public policy and law in the new republic. To clarify, let me quote the part of Article six that is essential to the discussion; "The Senators and Representatives before mentioned, and the Members of the several State Legislatures, and all executive and judicial officers, both of the United States and of the several States, shall be bound by Oath or Affirmation, to support this Constitution; but no religious Test shall ever be required as a Qualification to any office or public trust under the United States." In the next part of this article, I will analyze the words contained in Article six and see if they conflict with the what is written in the first amendment.  However, sometimes it is also beneficial to analyze what is not included.  To be more specific, what words or phrases are not found in the Constitution and what we may infer from these exclusions.(Continued in a future posting.) Date-8/15/2013. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. THE SOCIOPATH-  A DANGER ALL AROUND US.  PT 4. Now you may be asking yourself,  "How can I know if I am dealing with a Sociopath, what are the signs?" First of all, one important fact must be placed on the table when we try to answer this question;  Sociopaths come from all walks of life.  There are no economic, racial, social or intellectual traits that have been identified as exclusively Sociopathic.  A Sociopath could be your parent or sibling, Aunt or Uncle, Close family friend, Business acquaintance, Teacher...etc.  Sometimes the hardest part of identifying a Sociopath is facing the fact that it might be someone close to you. You have to realize, the Sociopath is playing a part.  They create a facade that best suits their needs and desires, projecting an image to others that makes them seem to be something their not.  They are very adroit in adapting their behavior to given situations and use this ability to manipulate others.  Once a perceived weakness is spotted in another, the Sociopath decides how to exploit this characteristic and acts accordingly. However, there are certain things you can look for, if you think that you are dealing with a Sociopath.  Keep in mind, these examples are not universal in nature.  Not every Sociopath will exhibit all of these behaviors.  In turn, many of the following examples may be found in people who are not Sociopaths.  Yet, if you find an individual who fits multiple examples, you may have reason to be cautious. I would like, before I begin the list, to point out that Sociopath is not a mental illness that is the result of a physical defect of the brain.  Unfortunately, one is not born a Sociopath, where early diagnosis could lead to proper treatment.  However, before I get into what circumstances may create a Sociopath, let us go through the list. See PT.5 in a future posting. Date-8/18/2013. Scroll down for future posts.  FEATURE ARTICLES.  THE SOCIOPATH-  A DANGER ALL AROUND US.  PT 5. Here is a sample list of behaviors generally attributed to be indicative of a Sociopath.  Pathological lying.  Lack of empathy.  Refusing to accept responsibility for their actions.  Inappropriate behavior in certain social situations.  A wholly unrealistic image of their personal worth to individuals and groups.   Superficial personality with no real depth, which is often masked by being extremely outgoing and friendly to others regardless of  the nature of the relationship. Takes much more than gives from friends or relatives. Inability to work closely with others, especially if they are not in charge.  Rarely takes orders or commands without being resentful.                  . Manipulates people and situations with ease, for only the outcome counts.  No thought to the affects on others. This is by no means a complete list.  For further information I recommend researching the pioneering work done by Dr. Robert Hare.  As you read through this list, and research other types of behavior that is associated with Sociopath, look for what they have in common with each other.  The most obvious commonality you may find is this;  Sociopaths are the most selfish and ego-centric group you may ever encounter.  In no given situation will the Sociopath ever think about possible affects that their behavior has on the well-being of others.  That is, of course, unless it serves their own purposes. How do we identify a Sociopath?  Sometimes it means understanding what created them. (See PT.6 in a future posting.) Date-9/2/2013. Scroll down for future posts.  FEATURE ARTICLES.  THE SOCIOPATH-  A DANGER ALL AROUND US.  PT 6. Unfortunately, there is currently no possible way to determine what creates a Sociopath.  While there are certain things that seem to be present in many cases of identified Sociopaths, there are no universal factors that occur in all. We are unable to point at an individuals Physical Appearance or Heredity and conclude they are or will become Sociopathic.  Further, while many Sociopaths grow up in dysfunctional homes, not all of them do.  In fact, siblings who are exposed to the same lack of a stable Nuclear Family will often become well-adjusted adults who are able to overcome early negative influences. While it is said that a high percentage of our convicted felons are Sociopathic, it does not mean that most Sociopaths have a criminal record. The most telling attribute that seems to differentiate the convicted Sociopath from one who manages to avoid prosecution, is the ability to maintain a guise of normalcy when interacting with other members of society.  This is usually done by observing early in life, within the family, what behavior is expected of them.  While some Sociopaths silently mock such concepts, they learn to get what they want by pretending to go along with the majority.  This is fined tuned as they mature and grow older and the ability to expand their web of deceit grows to include all facets of their life. The real difference between the Sociopath who is caught and exposed to all of society, and one who may stay unidentified for their entire life, seems to be self-control and functionality within society.  In other words, the capacity to use others for selfish purposes, and never being caught or punished. ( See PT.7 in a future posting.) Date- 10/5/2013. Scroll down for future posts.  FEATURE ARTICLES. FACING THE TRUTH.-  WHAT IS THE REALITY BEHIND THE OPPOSITION TO UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE IN THE UNITED STATES? Although I have covered this subject under the category of Ethics and Morality, this article covers an area that is distinct.  The bottom line is that there are individuals and/or groups in the U.S who do not want Affordable Health Insurance for everyone.  Basically, they are thinking of no one but themselves.  They may state other reasons, but it only is to avoid admitting the truth publicly.  However, I would like to make it clear that any of the following are not to be considered 100% inclusive.  There are members, perhaps even a majority, who would reject the self-centered mind-set of those who are part of their group. Those with Health Care Plans that provide extensive coverage, beyond that of most regular plans.-  They consider their status as being among the elite, regardless of actual impact on society through their actions as an employee.  To them, there are the Haves and the Have Nots. Citizens who in the past were not covered.  This group includes those who are now covered because they became part of a protected group.  Since they suffered in the past, why should others not suffer as they did? Those who realize that with the addition of millions of newly insured Americans, that there might be a delay in receiving non-life threatening care. Since it's true that the new law will not affect everyone equally, why should it   be applied and financed by those who don't see any immediate benefit. What really amazes me is the often blatant hypocrisy of many opponents of the new law.  "Why should I help fund a law I don't need," they shout to the heavens.  However, they conveniently forget; Grants and Scholarships.                 Small Business Loans.                                Home Mortgage Loans. Flood and other disaster relief. Bailing out Financial Institutions,       because of criminal and/or professional incompetence.  Get the picture. All of the above are examples, among others, of Government Assistance to a select portion of the population.  I wonder how many opponents of Universal Health Care, or their family, can honestly say they have never turned to Government for aid in a time of need, or to rescue their High Incomes from a corrupt "Trusted Adviser." There are practical reasons to support Universal Health Care, that will benefit the U.S in the long term.  I just hope that practical is never equated with moral. Date-10/10/2013. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. THE SOCIOPATH-  A DANGER ALL AROUND US.  PT 7. While it's true that we cannot identify potential Sociopaths by Biological and Sociological factors present in the early stages of life with any certainty, there are warning signs that should be looked for. These are clues that could indicate that the minor child may become an uncaring, unfeeling and amoral adult. The only hope in preventing this from becoming a reality may be catching it in time, when therapy could have a positive influence on the developing personality. Childhood, from infancy through the teen years, is a battle where the outcome is a finished product.  This result enters into society as an Adult, who now has the opportunity to make an impact which affects all citizens. Whether or not this will be positive or negative may depend on our ability to identify those personalities which, at an early age, show signs of Sociopathy. There are certain behaviors, when exhibited before the onset of puberty, that seem to be common among Life-Long Sociopaths.  I will start with the following example: Cruelty- The desire to see other living things in pain, relishing the suffering that they observe.  The enjoyment of such situations is amplified if the individual is the direct cause of the torment. ( See PT.8 in a future posting.) Date- 11/3/2013. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. WHAT DOES THE U.S. CONSTITUTION ACTUALLY SAY ABOUT RELIGION?  PT 2. In part 1, I quoted Article six of the U.S. Constitution.  I pointed out that this section of the Constitution, along with the First Amendment, are the only two places that religion is referred to in the entire body of the document.   I will now quote from the Bill of Rights, the section that references religion. First Amendment-  "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof..." There you have it.  These two passages make it clear what role religion would play in the development of the new republic, and at no time do they contradict each other. Congress would not address the subject of religion in any way. There would be no religious test to hold public office.  One need only swear allegiance to the Constitution Since religious freedom is considered a right that every American has, it cannot be taken away.  In other words, creating and passing legislation that removes this right is not possible. For those who claim that the founding fathers had an agenda that would establish Christianity as an essential part of our legal system, and that it is justified within the body of the Constitution, ignore certain details.  None of the following appears within the ratified document; God. Jesus. Christian or Christianity. Prayer. Bible.  In fact, the only word that could possibly be a reference to a Supreme Being is the use of the term "Lord".  However, this word is used only once in the following fragment; "...in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and Eighty seven...".  This was a common way that dates and times were presented in print, and was not considered to be an expression of faith. It is amazing that many of todays Lawmakers wish to regulate public policy according to the faiths and beliefs of certain segments of American society.  This completely ignores the obvious intentions of the Framers of the Constitution.  Why would they make it the law of the land to require no religious test to hold public office, and then seek to Legislate by Doctrines found in certain faiths? (See PT.3 in a future posting.) Date- 11/11/2013. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT-  HOPING FOR FAILURE. As the AFFORDABLE CARE ACT/OBAMACARE/UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE is now being implemented nationwide, opponents of the new law are hollering loud and clear about any flaws that are coming to light.  They demand an immediate repeal of the law, and promise dire consequences if this does not happen.  However, citizens and lawmakers who support the act should not be pulled into answering the hysterical rantings of those whose only goal is to see it fail. What really amazes me is the desire of certain politicians, parts of the media and segments of society as a whole to see the U.S. become a weaker nation, both economically and socially.  It is a level of selfishness that is hard to comprehend, for it is the "Only I count" and "Me and only Me" way of looking at life. To them it doesn't matter how many others suffer, as long as they are not affected in any way. This way of thinking does not look at the possible long term affects on society by new legislation, for it doesn't matter. The Affordable Care Act is just the most recent example of a law enacted with the goal of providing a long term solution that will solve a difficult problem.  As has happened in the past, the law is not perfect and must be adapted to confront unforeseen consequences.  There is nothing in the wording of the law, or any form of Judicial precedent that would prevent this from happening.  Many times in the past programs instituted by Government were found to have certain weaknesses that needed to be corrected.  Guess what?  They were, without destroying the goals or purposes which prompted the necessity for their creation. Many opponents of the Affordable Care Act are not willing to even discuss how the law might be altered or changed to resolve any problems.  That is because they do not want it to be successful, for it offers help and aid that they do not need at this time.  In other words, "Whats in it for me" or "I don't have any responsibility for anyones well-being but my own."  Of course this ignores the possible future benefits that may be the product of the new law, which may include providing future assistance to those who don't need it now. This is the ultimate example of the "Living in the present, and the Future is someone elses problem," type of Politician.  I thought we expected more from our leaders and public servants. Date- 11/23/2013 Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. A LETTER FROM THE INNOCENT. On December,14,2012 a horrific tragedy occurred in the town of  Newtown, Conn.  A lone gunman invaded the Sandy Hook elementary school and killed twenty first grade students.  In addition six staff members; The Principal, School Psychologist, Two Teachers and Two Teachers Aides were also killed as they heroically tried to shield and protect the helpless little ones.  I humbly offer this tribute, as it first appeared in examiner.com.                                         A Letter from the Innocent.                                          Dear Mommy and Daddy,                                         I am no longer here,                                          But don't be sad, I remember Your love for me was clear.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       Dear Mommy and Daddy,                                                                              A bad-man took me away,                                                                    Please don't hurt others                                                                    Remember me that way.                                                                                                                                                                                            Dear Mommy and Daddy,                                                                    You protected me at home,                                                                    Even though you're not with me,                                                                    Teacher is, so I'll never be alone.                                                                                                                                        Dear Mommy and Daddy,                                                                    I love you, but it's pretty here,                                                                    and my friends and I get to play,                                                                    But it makes me really happy,                                                                    Principal says we will be together                                                                       again some day.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. THE SOCIOPATH-  A DANGER ALL AROUND US.  PT 8. While many children at an early age lack boundaries, and seem to enjoy the suffering being caused to other living things, adult guidance from the nuclear family or other positive sources are usually sufficient to overcome the emotional immaturity present in the developing mind.  However, the potential Sociopath does not or cannot understand the concept of "Empathy", and identifying this becomes very important so that professional intervention can begin at an early age. Controlling Inappropriate Behavior-  This is a manifestation of the inability and/or desire to conform to expected types of behavior in both public and private social situations.  Again, as with a lack of empathy, the potential Sociopath does not understand why they should control their actions because others tell them that it is wrong or inappropriate.  Simply put, they feel they are doing nothing wrong and see no reason to alter their behavior. Inappropriate Behaviors may include; Unwanted and Unsolicited physical contact with others. Mannerisms that are not age appropriate. Demanding special treatment that no one else can receive. Making and losing friendships frequently, without any sense of loss or achievement. The desire to punish others they perceive to be a threat, even though this perception is a consequence of their own behavior. Treating family activities with contempt, as a complete waste of time. Remember, it is important that these Behaviors be identified early in life. If not addressed at a young age, the Sociopath can learn to adapt their behavior  to what is expected and use it to deceive and exploit others. ( See PT.9 in a future posting.) Date- 12/15/2013. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. WHAT DOES THE U.S. CONSTITUTION ACTUALLY SAY ABOUT RELIGION? PT 3. In continuation of this article, I would like to address another Church\State issue that is often used as political rhetoric to smear opponents.  The PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE- An expression of loyalty to the Republic and the Flag used to start many public and private meetings in the U.S.  It is most often referred to in the tradition of being recited by school children to start each day. The Pledge was written in 1892 by FRANCIS BELLAMY, a Baptist Minister.  The following is the original text published by Bellamy; " I pledge allegiance to my Flag and the republic for which it stands, one nation indivisible, with liberty and justice for all." As you can see, contrary to those who don't bother to check basic U.S. History, there is no reference to religion or faith within the wording.  It is an oath that binds the individual to the responsibility of being a citizen.  This includes recognizing the Flag as the symbol that represents the physical embodiment of the meaning contained within the Pledge. Yes, I know the current version includes the words "...under God...". However, this version was adopted in 1954 and was the last of four changes that were made in the text since its' inception. This change insults all Americans, for it implies that one is not truly loyal to the United States, until they repeat an oath that is purely religious in nature.  This flies in the face of the intent contained within the wording of the Constitution.  It is simply a way to circumvent religious freedom that is guaranteed to all citizens. Date- 12/17/2013. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. "DUCK DYNASTY" CONTROVERSY AND FREEDOM OF SPEECH.  PT 1. 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. Date-  12/22/2013. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. "DUCK DYNASTY" CONTROVERSY AND FREEDOM OF SPEECH.  PT 2. Now that A&E has announced that it has rescinded Phil Robertsons suspension, and that he will not miss any time from the show "DUCK DYNASTY", we can safely draw the following conclusion;  AT NO TIME WAS MR. ROBERTSONS FIRST  AMENDMENT RIGHTS VIOLATED. FEDERAL, STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT DID NOT  ENTER INTO THIS SITUATION IN ANY WAY.  THE SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF SUCH WAS PURELY THE DECISION OF HIS EMPLOYER, THE A&E NETWORK.  This part of the story is not really surprising.  Pressure from certain political figures, as well as groups who oppose Same-Sex rights, seems to have pushed the network into retracting its' initial response.  Now, whether or not the suspension of Robertson was just a face saving way for A&E to pretend to be morally outraged, and was never meant to be actually carried out, is something we may never know. However,  The contention that the suspension violated the first amendment falls apart with just a cursory examination of the words contained within the Bill of Rights; "Congress shall make no law...abridging the freedom of speech..." Judicial review has applied these words, and their meaning, to bind state and local laws to the same restrictions placed upon the Federal Government. In a classic case of misdirection, the real story is being ignored, much to the relief of those who try to paint Phil Robertson as a victim.  The Goal-  Creating a legal system that imposes the beliefs of few, into the lives of many.  Look for PT 3. Date- 12/29/2013. Scroll down for future posts.  FEATURE ARTICLES. "DUCK DYNASTY" CONTROVERSY AND FREEDOM OF SPEECH.  PT 3. In the end, the real danger to the freedoms all Americans are guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution has little to do with what Phil Robertson said or did not say. We have seen that there was never a violation of freedom of speech,  and the assertion of such was ridiculous. However, those who came to Robertsons defense, did so in two main ways; -  His Constitutional Right to Freedom of  Speech had been violated.  This we know not to be true. -  That those who criticized Robertson for his comments and beliefs were, actually, launching an attack against Christianity. This is not something new.  The claim that Christianity is being singled out for special condemnation is a frequent assertion made by those who find themselves opposed to; - Certain Behaviors judged to be protected under Constitutional Law, that they consider Immoral and Ungodly. - Regulations and Laws that are in place to limit the influence of religious faith on public policy. - Restrictions that are enforced by law, which limit their power to punish those who do not follow a prescribed code of conduct that may be contrary to a specific system of belief. Unfortunately, those of us who believe in the concept of an absolute separation of Church and State, are often up against those who would institute some form of Theocracy into our Legal System. Look for PT 4. Date-  1/7/2014. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. A TRIBUTE TO "PROFESSOR ROY HINKLEY", OF GILLIGANS ISLAND FAME.  PT 1. On January,16, 2014 actor Russell Johnson passed away at age 89. Although he appeared in numerous T.V shows and Feature films, he has entered Sitcom immortality for his role as the "Professor" on "Gilligans Island." Gilligans Island has withstood the insults and criticisms that, over the years, were leveled at it by the Media and Viewers alike.  It remains a popular selection on the rerun circuit, and many fans (Including myself) fail to understand the often mean spirited comments leveled at the show.  These are often unfair, forgetting that the premise was pure escapist comedy and was never meant to be true to life.  Well, this article is a defense against one area frequently targeted for ridicule; The character of Professor Roy Hinkley. Lets face it, the Professor was the original academic nerd.  Today, such a character is often an essential part of popular T.V shows, but in the 1960s such a role inspired mock and pity from viewers. No one wanted to emulate an asexual, bookish,and socially awkward individual.  In other words, the only interests of people like the Professor were found in Classrooms, Laboratories or Archaeological Digs. However, if you really paid attention, this does a great disservice to the pioneering role model for science geeks everywhere. COMMON MISCONCEPTION #1-  The Professor was not interested in the opposite sex, when it came to matters of physical and/or sexual attraction. I open with this, because it is an opinion shared by many fans of the show, as well as the detractors.  However, it is not true. Example-  In a popular episode, the Castaways make a silent movie, which they set adrift in the hopes it will be found and lead to their rescue.  In one scene, directed by Mr. Howell, Ginger is to express her thanks to the Professor for coming up with the plan.  The Professor first tries to shake Gingers hand to acknowledge her gratitude, and objects strenuously when told they have to kiss on the mouth. He seems repelled at the thought, and it is this reaction that causes many to believe that he is not interested in intimate or sexual contact with women. Not so. Why?-  The Professor came up with the idea, so it is reasonable to assume that he understood the dynamics of making a film.  Since his scene is planned ahead of time, with the camera positioned to film him sitting at the table as Ginger enters into camera range, the Professor had time to consider his options.  Let us speculate about the following scenario; Having been on the island for at least a year, the Professor misses the physical pleasures associated with a sexual relationship. However, with such a small population of possible partners and the ramifications that will ensue if there is rejection, he carefully considers his options. Suddenly, the Professor sees a chance to express his feelings and desires without any real danger of negative consequences to him personally.  He knows that Ginger believes herself to be the ultimate Vamp, in that no man can resist her sexual overtures. The Professor realizes that her ego could not conceive the idea of being rejected by any man.  So, if he appeared eager to participate in a kissing scene with Ginger, it would be considered another example of her control over all men.  However, by initially rejecting her, the Professor has created a situation that wounds Gingers pride.  He concludes that this self- proclaimed sex symbol would not accept such a development, and would do just about anything to change it.  The Professor reasons that she will become very passionate and give everything she can to teach him a lesson about, "What he's been missing" or "Never mind the rest, I'm the best."  This seems to be the case, for she proceeds to attempt to swallow his whole face with her mouth. Now you may say, "What does that prove, she just caught him off guard."  That may be so, but watch the scene carefully.  Almost immediately after the start of the kiss, the Professor gives as good as he gets.  There is no sign of reluctance and no hurry, by either, to make it a short smack on the lips.  Remember, this was a man who a minute earlier was disgusted and appalled at the mere idea of kissing another on the mouth.  He got over that fear awfully quick, and we hear no complaints from Ginger.  The Professor must be a quick learner in the art of kissing, or perhaps he has more experience then he would like his fellow castaways to know. Look for PT 2. Date- 1/19/2014. Scroll down for future posts.  FEATURE ARTICLES. "DUCK DYNASTY" CONTROVERSY AND FREEDOM OF SPEECH.  PT 4. When you hear the phrase, "It's an attack on Christianity" or something similar in language and tone, one thing should be considered above all else; BY WHAT AUTHORITY, EITHER RELIGIOUS OR SECULAR, JUSTIFIES THE SPEAKER TO CLAIM THEY REPRESENT THE OPINIONS OF AN ENTIRE FAITH. Throughout the world millions of people follow and identify with Christianity.  They freely admit, publicly and privately, to being counted among the faithful. Practiced on all continents, the good works done by Christian Charities are legendary.  However, this often leads to confusion, because some use their beliefs to advance agendas that threaten religious freedom for members of all faiths. We can see such examples in those that publicly denounce, "Attacks on Christianity," for they forget one minor detail;  NOT ALL CHRISTIANS: 1) FOLLOW THE SAME SET OF DOCTRINES. 2) WORSHIP IN THE SAME MANNER.  3) AGREE ON WHICH PASSAGES IN THE BIBLE SHOULD  BE TAKEN LITERALLY OR SYMBOLICALLY. After "DUCK DYNASTY" star Phil Robertson was interviewed in GQ, and his comments were made public, anyone who claimed that criticisms directed at him were an "Attack on Christianity" either deliberately ignored the obvious or didn't stop to consider the matter.  For one thing was apparent; That in no Way, Shape or Form could such remarks be considered representative of the attitudes or beliefs of all Christians.  In fact, Robertsons remarks seem to be in a decided minority, when we evaluate the opinions of other Christian Denominations or Sects. Look for PT 5. Date- 1/23/2014. Scroll down for future posts.  FEATURE ARTICLES. "DUCK DYNASTY" CONTROVERSY AND FREEDOM OF SPEECH.  PT 5. The opposition to Robertsons comments, in terms of those who claim to be of the Christian faith, generally were from the following; -  Those who follow the Doctrine of a recognized Denomination of Christianity that does not consider Homosexual behavior to be immoral or sinful. -  Persons who belong to established Christian Churches that regard Homosexuality as sinful. However, They disagree with this judgment, and hope to change it. -  Christians who regard Same-Sex relationships as sinful, but would not agree with the statement; "Start with Homosexual behavior, and just morph out from there.  Bestiality, sleeping around..."  This conclusion that the acceptance of the Gay lifestyle would lead to other forms of sexual behavior is considered baseless by this group. -  Independent Christians who study and attempt to live by the teachings of Jesus, which they interpret on a personal level. The real story is not the comments that were made, but the attempt by political opportunists to hijack criticism of the statements, and paint Robertson as a victim. This is a tactic used by closet Theocrats all the time.  See if you can identify a pattern. How often do these "Defenders of Christianity" cry "IT'S AN ATTACK ON ALL CHRISTIANS" or something similar when:  1) Their Moral Principles regarding behavior that should be considered criminal, are not upheld as Constitutional and cannot be forced on all Americans. 2) Public Education does not recognize the pseudo-scientific judgments they make through such programs as Creationism. 3) The Courts decide that such programs as Organized Prayer in Public Schools, or requiring students to recite the words "...under God..." when reciting the Pledge of Allegiance are ruled unconstitutional.  The preceding paragraph is just a sampling, however one thing is clear;  IN NO CASE ARE THEY PREVENTED FROM CHOOSING, BEHAVING, IDENTIFYING WITH OR ACTING IN ANY WAY THAT WOULD VIOLATE THE RIGHT OF RELIGIOUS FREEDOM THAT ALL AMERICANS ENJOY. THE ABOVE ARE SAMPLES OF RESTRICTIONS THAT MAKE SURE THEIR FAITH AND BELIEFS ARE NOT FORCED UPON OTHERS. Remember, Freedom of Religion can also mean Freedom from Religion. Date- 1/29/2014. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. A TRIBUTE TO "PROFESSOR ROY HINKLEY", OF GILLIGANS ISLAND FAME.  PT 2. Alright, let us ask the burning question that even actor Russell Johnson couldn't answer-  "IF THE PROFESSOR IS SO SMART, HOW COME HE COULDN'T FIX A SIMPLE HOLE IN THE HULL OF THE MINNOW."  Hmm, seems to be a question that will forever remain to be unanswered.  That isn't any fun, and would make this an extremely short post.  So, I'll take a shot at solving this riddle that has stumped many preteens around the world. First, we must remember certain details revealed in the initial episodes; -  The Minnow was not a sailboat.  From the opening credits, we see it operating under power from a motor located at the stern. -  The ship never actually sank beneath the waves, but was beached. -  It did have several gaping holes on the port side, and perhaps the starboard side was equally damaged. -  To make the necessary repairs, the Professor was limited to materials that could be found on the island. The first episode aired was titled "Two on a raft", and the story line revolved around the Skipper and Gilligan leaving the island on a makeshift raft.  Powered by a small hand made sail, the goal was for the craft and its two man crew to reach the shipping lanes.  However, while the skipper was gung ho about the project, the Professor was very much against it.  He considered it, basically, suicidal.  Naturally, the effort failed, with the Skipper and Gilligan lucky to survive.  So... PART THREE will continue with the above post expanded upon, but let us take a trip down memory lane with... Some of the Professors practical creations while on the island.  How many do you remember? -  Lie Detector. -  Geiger Counter. -  Dynamite and Nitroglycerin. -  A makeshift Telephone. -  Hair Dye. -  A Guillotine. -  Dental Instruments. -  Explosive Device to stop a volcanic eruption. -  Tranquilizer to simulate Death. -  Medications that treat allergic reactions and vision problems. -  Lightning Rod. There are more, but this is a good sample. Look for PT 3. Date- 2/7/2014. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. THE DIVINE RIGHT OF KINGS-  WHAT THE  FRAMERS OF THE U.S. CONSTITUTION UNDERSTOOD, AND WHAT MANY AMERICANS FORGET. We have a great division in the U.S., and it is a tragedy of certain groups using religion as a tool to bend every American to their restrictive code of morality.  To often, they listen to populist media outlets and self-serving political pundits, and suspend their ability to think critically.   In past articles I have reviewed the text of the U.S. Constitution, and analyzed any sections that were related to religion.  As we have seen, this can be found in only two places; Article Six and the First Amendment. From these passages we can understand the place religious faith was meant to occupy in terms of public policy making and the creation of new laws.  Since that topic has already been covered, I will not repeat it here.  However, I would like to address a subject that is seldom discussed among students of American History: The role European History had in shaping the opinions of those drafting and creating the Constitution, in terms of what role religion would play in forming the new government. The Framers of the Constitution were a product of the "ENLIGHTENMENT", a philosophical movement that emphasized the use of reason and intellectual reflection in solving social and political conflicts, with less emphasis on faith and traditional church doctrine.  Too often, European Monarchs used the idea of the "Divine Right of Kings" as a justification for their throne. Throughout the middle ages, the average "Citizen or Subject", lived a life filled with disease, hunger and physical hardship. Religion and the concept of "A Heavenly reward for the righteous" offered a promise that Death would bring what life couldn't:  Eternal Happiness. It was under these conditions that European Royalty realized an important truth; To secure the Throne, and guarantee succession of their Bloodline, endorsement by a Religious Hierarchy would naturally lead to obedience from the faithful.  After all, who was going to tell GOD that the wrong person was on the throne. Organized Religion also benefited, for while they claimed to have GOD on their side, there was no Martial Force to protect them from rival faiths who wished to compete for the souls of the citizenry.  However, put the right person on the Throne, and your opponents may suddenly become very quiet.  Cold Steel can be a powerful persuader, if it is pressed to your neck. The Framers of the Constitution realized the inherent hypocrisy of this "European Tradition", and did not want it transposed to the new Constitutional Republic.  That is why the following words mean so much:  "WE THE PEOPLE...", no reference to a Deity or a Sovereign.  Perhaps, for the first time in history, intellect alone was the foundation for forming a Government. Religious Faith can be a great source of comfort and relief to the faithful.  However, spiritually, it must come from within.  If it comes from a ruling class, and their ecclesiastical allies, then it is a case of might makes right.   DATE-  2/18/2014. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. A TRIBUTE TO "PROFESSOR ROY HINKLEY",  OF GILLIGANS ISLAND FAME.  PT 3. ...We must ask the question, why would the Skipper attempt such a Hazardous trip?  How about the following; -  The guilt over the shipwreck has warped the Skippers judgment. -  The MINNOW  is not capable of being made seaworthy.  This had to be a decision both the Skipper and Professor agreed upon. However, the Professor realizes that the decision to make an ill-conceived attempt at rescue proves the Skipper is not, at the time, thinking clearly.  In fact, what is to stop him from trying such a gamble a second time, perhaps again putting others in extreme danger? To at least delay such a development, the Professor lies, and tells the Skipper that they can indeed repair the boat.  This is not  directly indicated in the story line, however a subsequent episode shows the attempts at making repairs.  If the Skipper had initially believed theMINNOW to be repairable, why would he attempt to contact the outside world in a clearly foolhardy manner? In this scenario, the Professor never really believed that the MINNOW could be a safe way off the island.  Eventually, as he hoped, the Skipper regained the capacity to think rationally. Of course, this meant using Gilligans "Miracle Glue" as a way to permanently remove the boat as a possible source of rescue. Look for PT 4. Date- 2/18/2014. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. OBSERVATIONS FROM TODAY'S HEADLINES-  TOPICS TO BE VISITED AGAIN IN THE FUTURE; STAND YOUR GROUND LAWS AND SAME- SEX MARRIAGE. Sometimes things occur, and you just have time to react.  Well, here a couple of prime examples of subjects that need far more exposure then the brief time they will spend in the public eye. STAND YOUR GROUND LAWS- Are, generally speaking, a legal form of self-defense in which the individual does not have an obligation to use avenues of escape, if available, to avoid using deadly force.  In the past, one could be held liable if they used lethal actions to stop an attacker, if retreat and escape was reasonably possible. On the surface, these laws are reasonable.  Given a life-threatening situation, making split second decisions are often necessary, and an individual may not have time to consider all options. However, recent events in Florida show how a law based on reason, can be misused by those with a political agenda. -  Are "Victims" legally allowed to take a non-threatening situation, and through their own actions create a situation that becomes life or death, and be held innocent of any wrong doing if physical force is used? -  If we allow the defense that "The individual believed his life was in danger", we create a chilling precedent that gives the irrational and paranoid a license to kill. AND The proposed Arizona Law that allows merchants to refuse service to Homosexuals. I've covered this topic in the past, and unfortunately, the same old arguments are being used once again. -  Constitutionally, this proposed Law is a clear violation, which can be discovered if we take the time and effort to read the Document. -  Arizona is NOT being forced to legalize Same- Sex marriage. -  Religious Freedom is not being infringed upon. -  How could it possibly be enforced.  Are two individuals, who enter together and are the same Gender,  subject to questioning by the staff? Two Topics that should not be taken lightly, and will be subjects in future posts. Date- 2/28/2014. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. A TRIBUTE TO "PROFESSOR ROY HINKLEY", OF GILLIGANS' ISLAND FAME.  PT 4.  One thing has bothered me since I started this article, and it made me realize one of the differences between T.V. in the 1960s and today's programming;  That many of the criticisms leveled against the "Professor" were unfair and not deserved, when we examine them against the so-called "Science Shows" that pollute the Cable Networks. GILLIGANS ISLAND was a sit-com, and was never marketed to be anything else. Yes, many of the plot lines were complete fantasy, never meant to be taken seriously.  Episodes about Invisibility,Voodoo and Mind reading etc. are still poked at and ridiculed, but what do you expect from escapist comedy?  What the critics forget is the real science element of the show, that exposed many preteens to their first look at the Scientific Method. In some episodes, we find the Professor hard at work, representing science in an admirable way.  Sometimes it is Debunking Pseudo-Scientific subjects such as Ghosts, Vampires and Curses etc, in others it is finding remedies for such things as Allergic Reactions, Stress, Insect Venom, Radiation Poisoning, and Vitamin C Deficiencies.  Chemical formulas, if dealing with real substances, are accurate and not fictionalized. However, many shows that are currently filming live episodes, are complete shams. They claim to be doing real Science and Unbiased research, but it's a claim that is nonsense.  Why? - You cannot presume to be searching for such entities as Bigfoot, Loch-Ness Monster, Ghosts and/or Demons, Alien Visitation etc, without providing Testable, Verifiable and Well Documented evidence that they actually exist.  Further, what are the qualities that identify them specifically, apart from anything else. - The best "Evidence" from these shows seems to Anecdotal.  In the case of Proper Scientific Methodology, this is worthless in establishing a factual basis for existence. - Instruments that measure Temperature, Sound Levels, Electrical Activity etc., are meaningless if not used properly.  Even if they are being operated in a manner consistent with the manufacturers recommendation, the Data collected must be analyzed in finding the most likely cause to explain the readings.  To say it indicates a specific manifestation, excluding everything else, is a crime against Science and Reason. So watch GILLIGANS ISLAND reruns, and have a good laugh.  However, the real comedians are pushing Pseudo- Science, and their not funny.  Only Pathetic. Date- 3/3/2014. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. THE SOCIOPATH-  A DANGER ALL AROUND US.  PT 9. So, the most important question of all must be asked;  How do you know if you are dealing with a Sociopath? To answer this, we must understand that Sociopaths occupy many different levels of achievement; be it Financial, Educational or Social. It has been speculated that most of those imprisoned are probably Sociopaths. However, that doesn't mean most Sociopaths are in prison. This, of course, leads to the following;  Why are some Sociopaths easy to spot and recognize, while others can remain unidentified for years? It is because not all Sociopaths are on the same level.  You see, the Sociopath considers their established way of life to be a career choice.  Just as someone else chooses Medicine, Law, Teaching etc, the Sociopath looks for a Job or Occupation that will allow them to best exploit others. In other words, it doesn't matter what function they play in society, for it is irrelevant.  All they care about is achieving personal desires. This leads us to the following;  How do we classify Sociopaths, in terms of how successful they are in realizing specific goals?  That can be best be explained by creating the following categories: - The Accomplished Sociopath. - The Functional Sociopath. - The Failed Sociopath.  These will be discussed and defined in a future post.   Date- 3/8/2014. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. ONCE AND FOR ALL...SAME-SEX MARRIAGE DOES NOT VIOLATE STATES RIGHTS.  PT 1. I have addressed this issue before,which includes a multi-part article published on examiner.com during the 2012 election. However, States Rights Advocates, most recently Arizona, are again screaming that they are being forced to legalize Gay Marriage.  Unfortunately, the arguments set forth by myself and others, are again being ignored by sections of the public who wish to impose their religious doctrine on every American. One major qualification; While the most politically active and vocal seem to be individuals and groups who claim to be Christian-  DOES NOT MEAN THAT THE MAJORITY OF CHRISTIANS AGREE WITH THIS LINE OF REASONING.  It is amazing to me the number of people who claim to represent the "True Faith", being a spokesperson for everyone else. So, in the interest of clarification, let us answer the following; Myth #1- Currently, States that have not legalized Same-Sex Marriage are being forced to allow such ceremonies, and they must be legally recognized.- Absolutely not. Unless such a law has been struck down by litigation brought before the Court, no State which has laws prohibiting Homo-Sexual Marriage is required to recognize such ceremonies as legally valid, if performed within its' jurisdiction. Myth #2- If a State legalizes Same-Sex Marriage, Churches will be required to allow these unions within their walls.- Again, not true.  Houses of Faith are allowed to perform or not perform any rituals they so choose.  Civil Rights Laws are not binding on them, as long as they are not receiving public funds.  In other words, no one is going to force you, your spiritual leaders or your congregation to arrange for or attend any function that violates a given Moral Belief System. End PT 1. Date-  3/14/2014. Scroll down for future posts.   FEATURE ARTICLES. SELF-DEFENSE, AND STAND-YOUR GROUND LAWS.  PT 1. The recent courtroom verdicts in Florida have brought to light an often misunderstood part of the U.S. Criminal Justice System.  This is the concept of Self-Defense, which is basically any physical act a potential victim uses against an attacker to prevent them from harming the individual or another.  This action is used to justify any injury suffered by the assailant, holding the potential victim blameless. This is not as straight forward as it seems. (Especially when we consider Stand- Your Ground Laws).  The problem is that there are principles in law that are not applied uniformly, and may differ depending on the State, Locality or Jurisdiction.  However, there are a few concepts that seem to be universally applied; - Much more discretion is given to the victim if they are attacked in their Home or Place of Business. - Generally, the claim of Self- Defense is much more credible if the Attacker is armed, with the assumption that it is more likely to lead to Catastrophic Injury or Death. - You can use the amount of force necessary to stop the attack, or to remove the potentiality for physical harm.  However, the victim can be held liable if the Danger is eliminated, but continues to use physical force beyond neutralizing the assailants ability to cause physical injury.   For example:  You are walking down the street, and an individual suddenly approaches you demanding money.  Pulling out a Knife, the would be Robber lunges.  However, you are able to Disarm him, and a strike to the face breaks the Attackers nose.  The Danger is now gone, and the assailant turns and runs in the opposite direction.  Up until now, everything you have done is perfectly legal... LOOK FOR PART TWO. Date-  3/18/2014.  Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. THE SOCIOPATH-  A DANGER ALL AROUND US.  PT 10. The first of the three categories of Sociopaths, in terms of how successful they are in achieving individual goals, and avoiding punishment for their actions. ACCOMPLISHED SOCIOPATH-  Is by far the most dangerous to a civilized society.  Throughout their lives, they have learned to direct and use others to act on their behalf.  This is done in such a way that no one realizes they are being manipulated, and few negative consequences fall upon this type of Sociopath.  However, what really sets the Accomplished Sociopath apart is their ability to direct blame and responsibility for actions they commit, onto others who are completely innocent.  This is often done by duping others to aid them in the persecution of the individual being targeted by the Accomplished Sociopath.  Families, Friendships and Business relationships are destroyed by this insidious fiend. Unfortunately, the Accomplished Sociopath may go through life unidentified, free to unleash havoc on humanity. The real sad part of the story is that many people think they are to smart to be conned by such a person, and refuse to admit it when evidence is presented that they are being used for nefarious reasons.  The Accomplished Sociopath realizes this, and finds ways to appeal to the vanity of the unwitting pawn. Are there clues, that may indicate you are dealing with an Accomplished Sociopath?  Yes, but be sure before confronting one.  They have spent years creating a facade of humanity that has hidden their true nature from Family, Friends and Acquaintances. If possible, accumulate allies who are willing to stand with you. For confronting the Accomplished Sociopath, means attacking their support structure of individuals who are either Unable or Unwilling to face reality. See part 11 for clues on identifying an ACCOMPLISHED SOCIOPATH. Date-  4/16/2014. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. TIMES OF YOUR LIFE.  DO YOU REMEMBER? For Special Holidays, I have rewritten an article first published by examiner.com. Just a reminder, to appreciate those who were part of our past. The above title is taken from a Paul Anka song.  However, SOMETIMES WE FORGET... That we were helped, emotionally and/or financially, by those who had no obligation to do so. The Individual Acts of Kindness that played an important role in our lives, that we do not acknowledge. The Teacher who believed we were capable of more. The Friend we don't see anymore, who at one time we counted on, and in turn counted on us. The first employer to give us a chance. The opportunities we were given, that are now denied to others. The life choices we made, and accepting responsibility for these decisions. The U.S. Constitution protects all citizens, not just the majority. The Benefits we received through Government Aid, paid for by Taxes  collected from all Americans. We are more than just an individual.  Our actions and behavior affect others. Humans can be guided by Reason, for we have the ability to understand the possible future consequences of our actions.  Animals act on instinct, a response to immediate stimulus. Do you remember the times of your life?  If so, do you use these memories to benefit others, or to exploit them. Date-  4/20/2014. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. ONCE AND FOR ALL... SAME-SEX MARRIAGE  DOES NOT VIOLATE STATES RIGHTS.  PT 2. Many Americans are unfamiliar with  certain parts of the U.S. Constitution.  That is unfortunate, because sections that are frequently ignored publicly, often have answers that can resolve current dilemmas. For our discussion, let us examine Article Four.  It reads in part: "Full Faith and Credit shall be given in each State to the public Acts, Records and judicial Proceedings of every other State.  And the Congress may by general Laws prescribe the manner in which such Acts, Records and proceedings shall be proved and the Effect thereof." Basically, it guarantees that Contracts, Court Decisions and the results of Criminal and Civil proceedings in one State, are acknowledged and accepted by all other States.  Examples include: -  Drivers Licenses. -  Court Decisions, both Criminal and Civil. -  Educational Achievements. The only way to circumvent Article Four, is the Creation of a Universal Definition that is applied to all States, by Act of Congress. The DOMA, ( Defense of Marriage Act), was created to define Marriage as Legally  Valid only if it includes the joining of a Woman and a Man.  However, the DOMA was eventually ruled to be Unconstitutional, violating the equal protection clause contained within the Fourteenth Amendment. States are free to set certain guidelines that must be met for a marriage to be legally performed within its jurisdiction.  These include age restrictions and intermarriage between relatives.  So what constitutes a valid legal marriage in one state, may not if performed in another.  This brings us to the main point: STATES THAT CURRENTLY DO NOT ALLOW SAME-SEX MARRIAGES TO BE LEGALLY PERFORMED WITHIN THEIR BOUNDARIES, (SUBJECT TO JUDICIAL REVIEW), ARE NOT BEING FORCED TO DO SO BY THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT.  THEY ARE BEING REQUIRED TO RECOGNIZE A VALID LEGAL MARRIAGE PERFORMED IN ANOTHER STATE.  THERE IS NO RIGHT TO INVALIDATE A MARRIAGE LEGALLY CONDUCTED ELSEWHERE.  THEY CANNOT PICK AND CHOOSE WHICH MARRIAGES THAT WILL BE RECOGNIZED, NO STATE CAN.  THIS IS THE GUARANTEE CONTAINED WITHIN ARTICLE FOUR. I hope this puts to rest the irrational idea that some states are being forced to allow Same-Sex Marriage to be legally performed within their borders.  This is an outright lie, put forth by dishonest politicians and their media flunkies.  Date-  4/25/2014. Scroll down for future posts.  FEATURE ARTICLES. RAISING THE MINIMUM WAGE;  HERE WE GO AGAIN.  Pt 1. With the debate over raising the Federal Minimum Wage becoming more contentious, opinions both Pro and Con, are coming fast and furious.  Politicians, Economists, Historians and members of the Media are pulling no punches, portraying the opposition as irrational and out of touch with the realities of Modern Economic Theory. However, are there certain things we can know regardless of what is said by either side?  Yes, and that is where we must start, in finding the solution that has the greatest positive impact on our National Economy, and the Quality of Life for every American. Question #1-  Will raising the Minimum Wage to $10.10/HR  from the now Federal Minimum of $7.25 result in the loss of thousands of Jobs? Before I discuss that question directly, we must look at one topic that seems to be constantly ignored, yet lies at the heart of the question; LAYING OFF EMPLOYEES MAY ELIMINATE THE TOTAL # OF JOBS, BUT IT DOES NOT REDUCE THE AMOUNT OF WORK THAT STILL NEEDS TO BE DONE FOR COMPANIES TO REMAIN PROFITABLE.  FEWER WORKERS DOES NOT MEAN FEWER GOALS/RESULTS THAT MUST BE MET. Historically, when lay-offs have occurred, it was because the amount of work that needed to be done had decreased.  The # of employees was too high to justify, in terms of profits, the amount of work that was being done at the time.  This is basic economics:  Hire more to match increased work load, or lay- off because of decreased work load. However, those who object to increasing the Federal Minimum Wage, are not able to use this line of reasoning.  The production numbers are still there to meet consumer demand, whether it is Cooking Meals, Delivering Goods, Retail Sales etc. Those who oppose raising the Minimum Wage are left with only this-  That the cost of these pay increases cannot be absorbed by businesses, in that they will lower profits to an unmanageable level to keep companies economically viable. Is this true? Look for part two. Date-  5/3/2014. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. SELF- DEFENSE, AND STAND-YOUR GROUND LAWS.  PT 2. As I explained in Part One, once the threat of physical harm has been removed, the claim of Self- Defense may no longer apply.  In the example I used, the Attacker has been disarmed, and is fleeing the scene. You would be legally justified in pursuing and physically restraining the suspect, holding him until the Police arrive and make a formal arrest. However, the force you use to detain the suspect must be reasonable, and does not include inflicting physical harm if no resistance is offered, and there is no longer a threat to you or anyone else.  For example, pinning the individual against the ground is probably perfectly legal, but pounding the head repeatedly against the ground may leave you open to Prosecution for using excessive force. Yet , Stand-Your Ground Laws are being used to destroy the concept of Justifiable Self- Defense, allowing individuals who instigate a Physical Confrontation (An Attacker) to Claim Self- Defense when the Victim has no choice but to confront the aggression.  What is even worse is excusing the ATTACKERS BEHAVIOR BECAUSE THEY BELIEVED THEIR LIFE WAS IN DANGER, EVEN THOUGH THERE IS NO EVIDENCE THAT THE VICTIM DID ANYTHING THAT COULD BE CONSIDERED THREATENING BY ANY REASONABLE STANDARD.  This is incredible.  For the first time, we have a system of justice that protects the Attacker, against VICTIMS WHO MAY BE GUILTY OF NOTHING.   Look for PT 3. Date-  5/7/2014. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. THANKS...MOM. In Honor of Mothers Day, I humbly offer this.  Thanks...Mom. You were always there, from  day one. Thanks...Mom. You believed in me, when at times, I didn't believe in myself. Thanks...Mom. You sacrificed to give me a better life. Thanks...Mom. You were a parent first, and a friend second. Thanks...Mom. When it seemed that I was alone, you were there. Thanks...Mom. Your love is pure, and asks nothing of me. Thanks...Mom. When I was a child you protected me from evil, because I was helpless. Thanks...Mom. When I was a Teenager, you tried to protect me from myself. Mom, as an adult, I find myself realizing what you gave up for me.  You did it for no reward, other than the hope that I would become a good man. Mom, as much as I love, respect, and care about you, there are many others who are neglected and forgotten. THIS IS A TRIBUTE TO ALL MOTHERS OUT THERE, THOSE WHO DID THE RIGHT THING.  THANK YOU. YOU MAY NOT BE APPRECIATED NOW, BUT YOUR LEGACY WILL STAND THE TEST OF TIME. Thanks...Mom. YOU TAUGHT ME THE GREATEST AND MOST IMPORTANT LESSON OF ALL:  THE MEASURE OF A PERSON IS NOT THEIR WEALTH, BUT THEIR WORTH. Thanks...Mom. Date-  5/8/2014. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. RAISING THE MINIMUM WAGE;  HERE WE GO AGAIN.  PT 2. What is most troubling about this issue, is the simplistic way it is presented to the General Public. Many Americans are forming opinions based on rudimentary, and misleading data.  Here are two statements that seem to be perfectly reasonable, yet represent polar opposite positions when discussing raising the MINIMUM WAGE. 1) "Raising it will cost jobs, especially among low skill workers.    Businesses who have such a work force will have to lay off  workers to remain profitable." 2) "Raising the minimum wage will create a need to expand the  work force.  Families that are now just making it, will have a       sudden increase in discretionary spending.  Necessities are more easily met, and luxuries are now within reach." What do they both have in common?  They are both offering a solution to a problem that cannot be solved so easily.  Further, neither addresses Moral or Ethical implications in either course of action. In part 1, I cited the most frequent argument, (Repeated above), against raising the minimum wage.  I then offered arguments against such reasoning at the end of pt 1 and above in pt 2.  However, to find a solution that will be satisfactory to both ends of the political spectrum, certain guidelines must be met. This means that all sides must make clear the bottom line:  - What is the goal of Government Intervention in regulating wages, and whether it should be done at all? - Should it be applied to both the Public and Private sector? - Does the Private Sector have any Moral Obligation to its' employees, apart from the profit margin affecting Stockholders and Investors? Finally, and an area I consider most important, is the idea that anytime Private Business asks for Tax Breaks or Subsidies to rescue Poor Management, Faulty Judgment or Declining Profits, it be tied in with employee paychecks.  If you want Public Money to save your Private Stock Portfolio, the Public should expect something in return.  This should be a guarantee, not a desire to see them do "The Right Thing." Look for PT 3. Date-  6/2/2014. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. THE SOCIOPATH-  A DANGER ALL AROUND US.  PT 11. The Accomplished Sociopath has achieved high status in the Professional and/or Social World by learning to identify the strengths and weaknesses in others.  They use this ability to advance a personal agenda, that usually disregards whatever consequences occur in the lives of those who come in contact with them. However, the one exception that sets the Accomplished Sociopath apart, is learning how to mimic the behavior of those who are expressing Worry, Concern, Empathy, Sorrow etc. They see the powerful affect it has on Family, Friends, Co-Workers and members of their immediate social circle, and how pretending to have these same feelings can work to their advantage.  Since they care about no one else, manipulating the emotions and lives of others does not bother or hinder them in the least. Fortunately, if we are perceptive enough, this behavior can lead to the unmasking of the Accomplished Sociopath.  While, in the short term, they are able to create a facade of caring, it usually doesn't last long.  Since their behavior is just an act, where the only purpose is achieving self- serving goals, once these are met there is no reason for them to maintain an artificial projection of feelings they do not have.   This may be the most important Red Flag we have in identifying an Accomplished Sociopath.  Most people cannot turn off Feelings of Concern, Empathy or Sorrow on a moments notice.  It is usually a process of going through successive stages, that may take some time to complete.  However, since these emotions were never genuine, the Accomplished Sociopath has trouble pretending to go through phases that are part of resolving and accepting the reality of the given situation.  Like turning a light switch on or off, the Accomplished Sociopath drops all pretense, once the deception has served its' purpose. See part 12. Date-  6/5/2014. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. SOMETIMES I THINK, IF THERE'S A HEAVEN... ... is it a reunion of all those we have known and loved? and ... do we get to say were sorry, not to the Divine, but those we have hurt, and receive an apology from those who hurt us? SOMETIMES I THINK, IF THERE'S A HEAVEN...                                 ... will it be a place to contemplate things we regret?                                 and                                                                   ... a place to celebrate things we have achieved? SOMETIMES I THINK, IF THERE'S A HEAVEN...                                 ... can we relive all the good we have done?                                 and                                 ... will it be a place where intent is valued,                                     not just outcome? SOMETIMES I THINK, IF THERE'S A HEAVEN...                                 ... is it full of those who equated morality,                                     with the will of the majority?                                                                   and                                 ... is it populated by individuals,                                     who tried to do the right thing,                                     only because they expected a reward? SOMETIMES I THINK, IF THERE'S A HEAVEN...                                                                     ... will I meet people whose concept of God,                                     is based on fear, not love?                                      and                                 ... wonder, is admission the product of Faith,                                     or Actions? SOMETIMES I THINK, IF THERE'S A HEAVEN...                                 ... does how one lives their life,                                     less important than how they end it?                                                                  and                                 ... is it populated by the Opportunist,                                     not the Moralist? SOMETIMES I THINK, IF THERE'S A HEAVEN...                                  ... should fear be the deciding factor,                                       that controls our behavior?                                       and                                   ... doing Good Deeds,                                      counts for less. What is the Foundation for how you choose to Worship? Think about it. Date- 6/8/2014 Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. SELF- DEFENSE, AND STAND-YOUR GROUND LAWS.  PT 3. The real danger of recent Court Decisions, is how juries are interpreting Stand- Your Ground Laws, and the precedent it creates. Are we now living in a country that allows Bigotry, Racism, and other immoral and irrational mindsets as an excuse to commit murder. Consider, the following two statements; - The Use of Deadly Force is justified, if a Reasonable Person believes that their life or the life of another, is in immediate danger. - If the individual believes that their life, or the life of another is in immediate danger, Deadly Force is allowed under the law. Now, they seem on the surface, to say the seem thing.  However, there is a major difference, and it must be addressed. In the first example, the word Reasonable is used, so Deadly Force must be justified by what a normal and rational person would do, given the same circumstances.  In practice, this is usually measured by the Actions, Demeanor and Physical Threat that the attacker has exhibited during the altercation.  In other words, the victim had no other choice, and behaved appropriately. However, the second example removes the word Reasonable. This allows the Defense to claim that the personality and belief system of someone using Lethal Force, be the deciding factor for justifying Self- Defense. This creates the following;  What if someone holds an Irrational view of different categories of people, that is not grounded in fact and is Demonstrably false. These opinions are contrary to what a Reasonable person would believe, for they are purely subjective in nature. These World Views are products of Hate, Prejudice and Preconceived ideas about others. If these views are considered valid, in terms of arguing Self- Defense, and the individual...                             ...believes that certain Ethnic and Racial groups are always armed and looking for an excuse to kill. ...associates Members of Certain Religions with Terrorism. ...is of the opinion that Sexual Orientation makes some people unable to control their behavior. ... then they are justified in using Lethal Force, BECAUSE OF THE BELIEF THAT THEIR CONCLUSIONS ARE TRUE, REGARDLESS OF THE REASONING THAT UNDERLINES SUCH JUDGMENTS.  If such a Defense is allowed to stand, then we have given every Hate Group a license to kill. Date-  6/15/2014. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION-   IS IT THE RALLYING CRY OF THE  CLOSET BIGOT?  PT 1. As we in the U.S. head into another election cycle, meaningful debate is again giving way to finding issues that prey on the emotional psyche of the average voter. Candidates are looking to polarize certain voting blocks, by offering personal opinions on certain controversial Topics. Often, this is not done by Intellectual Reflection,  but with the intent to appeal to the Baser nature of Humanity.  This is best exemplified in the reasoning given by some Politicians running for office, in how they arrived at the positions taken on specific issues.   For Example; IMMIGRATION-  At the time of this writing, Immigration Law seems to be the most important issue for the average voter, in how it is interpreted and enforced. Unfortunately, there is a profound misunderstanding about what the term IMMIGRANT ACTUALLY MEANS, AND HOW IT IS OFTEN MISUSED BY INDIVIDUALS WITH A SPECIFIC POLITICAL AGENDA. To clarify, here are definitions for certain words, that will help us find the truth. ( These are my definitions. However, I encourage my readers to Research other  possible meanings for these terms.) Immigration-  Is simply the act of changing ones Home or Residence, from one place to another.  For the purpose of this article, it will refer to Citizens or Nationals of one Country, seeking to move inside the borders or areas controlled by another Nation.  This can be either a Permanent or Temporary arrangement. Refugee Status-  The desire of Individuals to seek sanctuary within the borders of another Nation, to avoid extreme hardship occurring in their Home Country.  This can include Acts of Violence, Famine or Environmental Disasters.  Humanitarian Aid is usually offered to the Refugee by the Nation granting them safe haven, to alleviate hardships already suffered. Immigrant and Refugee are not one and the same.  An Immigrant desires to remain as a Resident for a given period of time, or permanently.  A Refugee is given sanctuary only as long as the situation within their Homeland merits it.  They are expected to return once the situation has been stabilized.  Refugees may apply for Immigrant Status, but it is not granted automatically.  END OF PART 1. Date-  7/18/2014. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. THE SOCIOPATH-  A DANGER ALL AROUND US.  PT 12. In the previous installment, the Accomplished Sociopath was described. Generally, this category has relatively high degrees of Intuitive and Psychological Instincts, in that they know what others need, desire, and expect on an emotional level, depending on the situation at hand.  They are experts at this, in that the exploitation that occurs is often not exposed for years, or sometimes never. The next category, THE FUNCTIONAL SOCIOPATH, has many of the same qualities found in the Accomplished Sociopath, but is unable to achieve the same level of success. ( The ability to keep their motivations hidden from others, resulting in negative consequences resulting from their actions.) This can be explained by the following: -  A strong desire for immediate satisfaction. -  Feelings of superiority, in that they are too smart to get caught. They take risks the Accomplished  Sociopath never would. -  Failure to learn from their mistakes. The Functional Sociopath relies much less on planning than the Accomplished Sociopath.  They believe personality will overcome any problems or obstacles. Their Self- Image is so delusional, that even when found out, they will not accept the fact that the game plan has failed.  They were just unlucky, and the intended victims caught an undeserved break.  The Functional Sociopath believes, "Next time will be different." So in which situations does this category achieve their goals? Look for PT 13. Date-  8/5/2014. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. RAISING THE MINIMUM WAGE;  HERE WE GO AGAIN.  PT 3. Instead of reciting the minimum wage rates of the 50 States in the U.S. as compared to the Federal Minimum, l would like to address a different issue.  Is the decision to raise, maintain or lower the minimum wage an issue of morality for which Government must become involved, and if so, to what degree? Before we go on, it should be acknowledged that both sides have proponents that push extreme views, apart from mainstream supporters of compromise. Group #1-  Pay in the private sector should be left entirely to the business owner or operator.  Government has no right or obligation to intervene, that is the free-market system, the foundation of Capitalism.  The Free Market regulates itself. Group #2-  The Free Market system can only work if there are consumers who are financially capable of purchasing goods and/or services.  By deliberately keeping wages low, the private sector limits the purchasing power of a large part of the population.  This results in less taxes paid, and more reliance on social services to meet basic needs.  Intervention is necessary to prevent the private sector from sabotaging governments ability to provide essential services to both the public and private sectors.  The heart of the matter is this;  what responsibility does government have, at any level, to those groups or individuals who come under its power to regulate any decisions or policies that may be employed in the market place.  Further, how is that responsibility to be extended to those who are affected by the actions of said groups or individuals. Basically, it comes down to two competing economic theories, which in the end, are just polar opposites of each other.  All other theories can be found somewhere in the middle, and a solution may be found in adopting the positive aspects of each, and accepting that each has negative qualities to be avoided. IT IS THE COMPETING CONCEPTS OF A HANDS-ON VS HANDS-OFF ROLE OF GOVERNMENT IN REGULATING BUSINESS PRACTICES. Look for PT 4. Date-  8/17/2014. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION-  IS IT THE RALLYING CRY OF THE CLOSET BIGOT?  PT 2. As time goes on, I wonder more frequently if people actually take the time to think about certain topics critically, before offering an opinion.  Naturally, I am not referring to who is going to win the Super Bowl, or which movie should win the Oscar for Best Picture.  I am referencing the current venom being spouted out publicly about immigration into the United States.  So, for once, let us sit back and consider the issue calmly and thoughtfully. Let us first look at a few myths, currently being spread by rabble rousing hate mongers. 1)  The U.S. Government wants to let everyone in, no questions asked.       - If you can quote any Politician who has said anything like this, by all means          send me an e-mail with proper citations.  To my knowledge,  no such                     sentiment has ever been expressed, at least by an identifiable and credible             public figure. 2)  Closing the Borders is the only solution to safe guard the Territory of the U.S.  -  This such a silly statement, it defies reason.  The United States has legal points of entry, just like every other country.  Commerce, Tourism and other Visitors have perfectly legitimate and legal reasons to enter the U.S. every day. For Terrorists to try to enter at these points would be foolish, THEY ARE         STAFFED BY INDIVIDUALS WHO ARE THERE SPECIFICALLY TO BE WARY OF FOREIGN NATIONALS.  People who have Valid/Legal documentation to be allowed entry should not be penalized by the paranoid.                                            When most Americans argue about the need to close the borders, what they are probably referring to is strengthening or building up areas that are hot spots for illicit or clandestine entry into the U.S.  We'll get into this issue more in a future post. END OF PART 2. Date-  9/4/2014. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. THE SOCIOPATH-  A DANGER ALL AROUND US.  PT 13. Basically, the FUNCTIONAL SOCIOPATH achieves success in short term relationships.  They know what their Personal Wants, Desires and Needs are, and what must be done to realize these goals. Each person they encounter will be evaluated by the role they can play in helping the Functional Sociopath acquire whatever they want; 1)  Is this individual likely to remain a casual acquaintance at best, so little time will be spent cultivating a personal relationship.  All interaction will be superficial at most. 2)  Will they help satisfy a need that must be met, so attempting to establish a "Friendship" would be worth a certain amount of time and effort. 3)  Can this be the rare person(s) who will fulfill multiple roles in the life of a Functioning Sociopath, and must be drawn into the web of lies and deceit at all costs. In the first two examples the skill of the Functioning Sociopath is able to bring in or cast aside these individuals with little effort.  Many people that they claim as "Friends," are simply tools to use on a short term basis.  They will satisfy specific and usually short term needs.  Once this is done, they will be suddenly dumped or cast aside by the Functional Sociopath.  Why? Because there are always more like them living in society, so the Functional Sociopath jettisons these friends with little thought or remorse. This is the flaw in the personality of the Functional Sociopath.  Going through friends is a constant theme in their lives.  To often, once the short term goal is reached, the Functional Sociopath casts aside persons who may have, down the road, again become a valuable asset.  This results in few, if any, lifelong relationships. In the third example, we have the Functional Sociopath attempting to evaluate the individual in terms of long term worth or value. They often lack the discipline to do this, so their lives are in constant chaos.  This is what sets them apart from the ACCOMPLISHED SOCIOPATH.  They quite simply cannot contain their true nature for any great length of time, when dealing with specific individuals. So what does this say about the FAILED SOCIOPATH? See PT 14. Date-  9/18/2014. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. THE SOCIOPATH-  A DANGER ALL AROUND US.  PT 14. 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. Date-  10/13/2014. Scroll down for future posts.   FEATURE ARTICLES. RAISING THE MINIMUM WAGE;  HERE WE GO AGAIN.  PT 4. For all the Theories and Statistics that have been put forth, Pro and Con, about raising the Minimum Wage, one thing continues to bother me:  The assumption that increasing wages will cut into the profit margin of companies forced to implement the change. However, this assumption is based on analyzing just one side of the question, and completely ignores the other.  Let's examine this more closely. Corporations and Politicians that criticize the mandatory increase in the Minimum Wage, play the same card over and over again;  That it will Hurt Business, Cause an Increase in Labor Costs, Cut Profits etc., It is the same story over and over again. Yet, the one thing that seems to be constantly ignored is the MAIN POSITIVE ASPECT OF RAISING THE MINIMUM WAGE;  THE INCREASED INCOME THAT IS NOW AVAILABLE  TO THE MINIMUM WAGE WORKER,  AND HOW AND WHERE IT WILL  BE SPENT.  ADDITIONALLY, WHAT OTHER IMPACT CAN AN INCREASE IN WAGES HAVE ON THE ECONOMY IN GENERAL, BE IT LOCAL , STATE, OR NATIONAL? This, of course, leads to even more questions; -  Are the companies complaining about the wage increase, also asserting that they will not benefit from the additional buying power that is pumped into the economy. In other words, completely ignoring the positive implications of increasing wages, and focusing solely on the negative? -  Do the increased wages relieve Social Services, (Government Subsidies.), of providing aid to those who now have incomes that are above the minimum standards required to be eligible? -  That the idea of laying off workers is Beneficial.  Specifically, the corresponding loss of Income Generating Activity? ( Production, Service Time, Quality Control.) -  That additional income will result in greater employee loyalty, and a positive impact on employee productivity? Is there any evidence, either way, to see if Higher Minimum Wage Laws result in Greater Unemployment Rates? For illustration, the following are the Rates and Ranks in the U.S., for the 20 States with the Lowest Unemployment Rates, taken from August, 2014 Reports.  Also included is the Legal State Minimum Wage, and whether or not it is Higher, Lower or Equal to the Federal Minimum Wage of 7.25/HR.  States with no Minimum Wage Law were also included. STATE                                  UNEMPLOYMENT RATE.               STATE MINIMUM. 1.  NORTH DAKOTA.                          2.8%                                  EQUALS- 7.25 2.  NEBRASKA.                                   3.6%                                EQUALS- 7.25 3.  SOUTH DAKOTA.                          3.6%                                 EQUALS-  7.25 4.  UTAH.                                             3.6%                               EQUALS-  7.25 5.  VERMONT.                                     4.1%                                HIGHER-  8.73 6.  HAWAII.                                          4.3%                               EQUALS-  7.25 7.  MINNESOTA                                  4.3%                                HIGHER-  8.00 8.  NEW HAMPSHIRE.                        4.4%                                 EQUALS- 7.25 9.  IOWA.                                             4.5%                               EQUALS-  7.25 10.  WYOMING.                                   4.6%                                LOWER-  5.15 11.  IDAHO.                                          4.7%                              EQUALS-  7.25 12.  MONTANA.                                    4.7%                               HIGHER-  7.90 13.  OKLAHOMA.                                  4.7%                              EQUALS-  7.25 14.  KANSAS.                                        4.9%                             EQUALS-  7.25 15.  COLORADO.                                  5.1%                               HIGHER-  8.00 16.  TEXAS.                                           5.3%                             EQUALS-  7.25 17.  MAINE.                                            5.6%                             HIGHER-  7.50 18.  VIRGINIA                                         5.6%                            EQUALS-  7.25 19.  WASHINGTON.                               5.6%                             HIGHER-  9.32 20.  WISCONSIN.                                   5.6%                             EQUALS-  7.25 FROM THE ABOVE WE FIND THAT-  13 STATES HAVE A MINIMUM WAGE EQUAL TO THE FEDERAL MINIMUM, 6 HAVE A HIGHER MINIMUM WAGE AND 1 HAS A LOWER MINIMUM WAGE. SOURCES-  U.S. DEPT. OF LABOR-  WAGE AND HOUR DIVISION.                    BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICS. Look for PT 5. Date-  10/15/2014. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. RAISING THE MINIMUM WAGE;  HERE WE GO AGAIN.  PT 5. Since we have seen that claims saying raising the Minimum Wage causes a rise in unemployment to be false, and the positive affects such an increase has in both the public and private sectors is often ignored, what is really at the heart of the opposition?  It may not be what you think. In fact, it may be a couple of reasons; -  Raising the Minimum Wage must be done by Government Decree. There are those who OPPOSE ANY GOVERNMENT INFLUENCE ON WAGES, ESPECIALLY IN THE PRIVATE SECTOR.  This holds true even if you point out how business will benefit, and profits will rise. ( Of course, to them, Government Intervention is good for such things as Tax Breaks, Bail Outs, Tax Free Loans etc.) Some Billionaires and Multi- Millionaires consider this an acceptable trade- off, as long as wages are in their control. - It cuts down on the supply of POVERTY LEVEL LABOR.  Many of those working for the current Minimum Wage, cannot meet the minimal financial levels needed for the basic necessities, ( i.e, Food, Rent, Medical etc.) , even if they work full time. (It is even more of a problem with dependents.) This often leads to taking a second or third part- time job, which are usually low paying positions similar to their full time employment.  Even when paying low wages, many employers will do just about anything to avoid paying overtime. So this leaves a pool of workers trapped in a cycle of working just to make ends meet. However, raising the Minimum Wage to levels where poverty isn't the only result, will cut down the need for multiple employers and jobs, and give an opportunity for Individual growth through additional Education and Training. In other words, a better prepared work force, in terms of the ability to achieve Financial and Professional success. A SCARY THOUGHT FOR MANY CORPORATIONS. I would like to end this Article leaving you with the following thought: NO MATTER WHAT IS SAID PUBLICLY, THERE ARE POLITICIANS, ELECTED OFFICIALS AND GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES WHO COULD CARE LESS THAT ANY AMERICAN GOES HUNGRY, IS HOMELESS, OR STRUGGLES TO FEED THEIR CHILDREN.  THE SUCCESS OF UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE IS DRIVING THEM CRAZY, FOR IT BENEFITS ALL AMERICANS, NOT JUST THE SELF- CENTERED. Remember this the next time you hear a Candidate speak. Date-  10/30/2014. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. WHAT PROGRESSIVES MUST LEARN.  PT 1. The results of the Mid-Term Election, could be analyzed in two ways; WHAT THE DEMOCRATS DID WRONG- I am addressing this on Page 9, QUICK HITTERS. WHAT THE REPUBLICANS DID RIGHT. The Republican Party succeeded, in large part, because they are uniform in their beliefs. (ESPECIALLY THE TEA PARTY).  Their supporters tend to get their information from Conservative Commentators on both T.V. and Radio. They do not, generally, question the validity of the information that is put forth, and it doesn't require Intellectual Reflection. In other words, I hear no evil, I expect no evil. They take stands on what they want to be true, not what is. They are led by reactionary Politicians, who do not push their own agendas to hard, but count on confusing and misleading voters about the opposition.  THEY DO NOT COUNT ON CONVINCING UNDECIDED VOTERS THAT THEY ARE THE BEST CHOICE, BUT THAT THE OPPOSITION WILL BE MUCH WORSE. Along with this, was the ability to convince many voters that Affordable Health Insurance was not important , or that a Minimum Wage tied to the cost of living was unnecessary.  However, we will make sure Government doesn't take your Guns away, and the Hordes of Illegal Aliens will be kept at bay.  I have covered those issues, and will continue to, in other categories, so I won't get into them here. These are Tactics that work best when you have an unmotivated block of voters who support the opposition, and ill- informed supporters who rush to the polls to save the U.S. from non-existent problems, that were created by Marketers and Advertisers who feed on the Paranoid.  SEE PART 2. Date-  11/9/2014. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. THE SOCIOPATH-  A DANGER ALL AROUND US.  PT 15. 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 "Now's 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. 11/13/2014. Scroll down for future posts.  FEATURE ARTICLES. WHAT PROGRESSIVES MUST LEARN.  PT 2. What the Republicans and the Tea Party did right, was to motivate enough of their supporters to turn out, while convincing opponents it wasn't necessary.  This was accomplished by having virtually no Set of Goals to make up a Party Platform.  Attacking the Democratic Candidates stand on certain Issues, masked their own inability to construct a Solid Base of Ideological Opinions that cover current events.  Naturally, it was impossible for Republican/Tea Party Candidates to completely avoid commenting on such Issues as The Affordable Health Care Act.  However this Issue, among others, was only mentioned in passing.  Quick Answers, and then on to the next question.  The repeal of the Law was never an Issue that many Republican Candidates cared to make prominent in their Campaign Strategy. Why?  Had enough Republican Candidates put this high on the agenda, it would have served as a Motivating Factor for the Millions that are now receiving Benefits from the Program, and a rallying cry for the Progressive Democrats that support it. This held True for any talk of overhauling the Social Security System.  Realizing the Firestorm it would create among Seniors and Retirees, it was avoided as much as possible, and never given priority in anyones Campaign. This type of Strategy, avoiding Issues like the Affordable Care Act and Social Security, and emphasizing things like Immigration and Gun Control, worked because of the following: -  That Many Voters will rush to the Polls, if they think there is a Genuine Threat to anything that benefits them personally.  If they are led to believe all is well, complacency takes over. -  Motivation can be produced by directing attention away from the fact that, In the Case of the U.S. Senate, that those Elected will be around for the next Six Years. So instead of getting Opinions on Important Issues that will come up before the next Election Cycle, the Strategy was to direct the focus on Artificially Created Problems that must be Addressed Immediately. ( i.e., Immigration and Gun control.) -  Real Impact Issues were never given the spotlight.  Instead, Opinions were Expressed Frequently and Openly on subjects that would have little impact on any Voter. SEE PT 3. Date-  11/18/2014.    Scroll down for future posts.                                                                                         FEATURE ARTICLES.                  THE SOCIOPATH-  A DANGER ALL AROUND US.  PT 16. There is one thing that all Sociopaths have in common that sets them apart from the rest of HUMANITY, and I can't stress it enough;  THAT THEY ARE UNABLE TO FEEL ANY EMPATHY TOWARDS ANOTHER PERSON.  IT COULD BE A PARENT, CHILD, RELATIVE, CLOSE FRIEND, OR A COMPLETE STRANGER.  THEY DON'T UNDERSTAND FEELINGS SUCH AS LOVE, SADNESS, GUILT, WORRY ETC., EVEN WHEN THEY ARE PRESENT IN OTHERS.  WHY?  BECAUSE THESE ARE EMOTIONS THAT ARE FOREIGN TO THEM, SO THEY CANNOT UNDERSTAND THE REASONING TO ADAPT THEIR BEHAVIOR TO WHAT OTHERS ARE FEELING OR NEEDING AT A TIME OF CRISIS. As we have seen, the Hierarchy of Sociopaths, is often measured by the Ability to Adapt their Behavior to what is expected.  It is the Primary way of getting what they want, and the ability to remain unrecognized as Sociopathic, is how well they are able pull off this Deception.  However, keep one thing in mind. No matter how Genuine or Realistic their Behavior seems at times, especially when exhibited during times of Great Stress that others are going through, it is an Act.  They are playing a Part, doing things that they believe are expected of them.  The Turmoil and Emotional Mind Sets that are present among those involved in a given Conflict or Situation, are alien to the Sociopath.  In Fact, the Sociopath considers such emotions as Flaws and Weaknesses, that make others Fair Game to Use and Exploit.   This leads to another Characteristic found among Sociopaths; A BELIEF THAT THEY ARE SUPERIOR BEINGS, NOT WEIGHTED DOWN BY CONSCIENCE, OR FEELINGS OF GUILT AND REMORSE.  EVERYONE ELSE WHO FEELS SUCH THINGS, IS MENTALLY HANDICAPPED, AND DESERVES TO BE USED AND EXPLOITED. Remember, that Sociopathy is not a MENTAL ILLNESS.  There are no Biological or Chemical factors that have caused this World View.  It is not the result of Genetics gone wild, or problems during Pregnancy.  UNLIKE, THE PSYCHOPATH AND SCHIZOPHRENIC, WHO CAN BE DIAGNOSED AND TREATED, THE SOCIOPATH CANNOT BE "CURED" IN THE TRADITIONAL SENSE. Date-  11/24/2014. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. UNDERSTANDING THE JURY SYSTEM?  PART 1. This Article could easily have been included on the CRIME AND PUNISHMENT PAGE, or even in the LOGIC CATEGORY.   The Latest Decisions not to Indict Two Police Officers, in separate incidents... -  The Shooting Death in Ferguson, Missouri.                                                                   -  The Choking Case in New York City. ...Has again Highlighted the Criminal Justice System in the U.S., and the question of Unequal Treatment before the Law for Minority Groups.  Both resulted in the Deaths of Two Black Males, in connection with actions committed by Police Officers. As usual, SOME MEDIA MEMBERS, POLITICIANS, AND SOCIAL COMMENTATORS are again ignoring what is important, and FOCUSING ON SOUND BITES. HOWEVER, lets see if we can actually find some answers by Thinking for Ourselves, and Ignoring what is on TV, RADIO, AND THE INTERNET. Before making any Judgment about the RESPONSIBILITY OF THOSE INVOLVED IN EITHER CASE, YOU MUST UNDERSTAND THE NATURE OF THE JURY SYSTEM. WHY? BECAUSE THE FAILURE TO: INDICT OR NOT INDICT  CONVICT OR ACQUIT.  HOLD RESPONSIBLE OR FIND BLAMELESS. IS THE RESULT OF A DECISION MADE ORDINARY AMERICAN CITIZENS, WHO MAY OR MAY NOT BE APPLYING THE LAW CORRECTLY. Point #1-  A Juries Decision need not be justified to anyone sitting outside the Box. If there are are no Improper Inducements or Illegalities, such as Bribery or Blackmail, a Juries decision is almost always held to be Legally Valid. Remember, in a Trial Setting, the Jury is instructed by the Presiding Judge, as to Matters of Law.  Their Decision is to apply the Instructions to the Case at Hand.   A Grand Jury, however , IS NOT DECIDING ON THE GUILT OR INNOCENCE OF ANYONE. THEY MUST DECIDE IF A CRIME HAS BEEN COMMITTED, AND IF THE EVIDENCE PRESENTED BY THE PROSECUTION COULD RESULT IN A CONVICTION. HOWEVER, THE JURY, IN EITHER SITUATION, NEED NOT EXPLAIN THEIR REASONING TO ANYONE.  THEY ARE UNDER NO OBLIGATION TO DO SO. This leads us to Point #2-  The Verdict in a Jury Trial, or the Decision to Indict, often will be the result of the LEGAL INSTRUCTIONS GIVEN BY THE JUDGE OR PROSECUTION. HOWEVER, IF THEY ARE FOLLOWED, IGNORED, OR EVEN IMPROPER MAY NEVER BE KNOWN OUTSIDE THE JURY ROOM. Further, the DECISION OF THE JURY MAY BE BASED ON THE COMPETENCE OR PERFORMANCE OF THOSE PRESENTING EVIDENCE OR TESTIMONY BEFORE THE COURT. This leads into a Concept that Many just Refuse to Accept: YOU CANNOT CONCLUDE THAT ANY JURY DECISION IS EITHER RIGHT OR WRONG,  IF YOU FOCUS ON ONLY ONE ELEMENT OF THE PROCESS. DOING THIS MAY EXCLUDE FACTORS THAT HAD INFLUENCE ON THE FINAL RESULT.  SEE PT 2. Date-  12/4/2014. Scroll down future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. UNDERSTANDING THE JURY SYSTEM?  PART 2. As we have seen in the News the past Week, Demonstrations have turned violent in the wake of the Grand Jury decisions in Missouri and New York. Unlike Peaceful and Thoughtful Demonstrations to make the Public aware of Their belief in the Injustice of both failures to Indict either Police Officer, these Actions only served to Polarize more of the U.S., by directing Destruction against those who had done them no Harm.  Further, Demonizing everyone wearing a Badge is Foolish and Counterproductive. Besides, it accomplishes Nothing.  I don't Understand what possible Good it does to Direct Anger against those who may actually support your point of you.  Further, do you Think such Violent Activities are going to persuade Your Opponents to Change Their Mind?  Even Worse, it ignores the Problem they perceive to be present in the Criminal Justice System, as it Pertains to Minority Groups in the United States. However, lets get back to the Problem at Hand, and try to Understand the Jury System as it is Currently Applied. As I pointed out in Part 1, a Jury doesn't have to Issue any Reason for its Decision, be it a Grand Jury, Trail Jury etc.  Yet that Decision is not set in Stone as the Final Word in the Matter, at least not in every case. This Leads us to Point #3. Unlike a Criminal Trial by Jury, where a Not Guilty Verdict RESULTS IN THE APPLICATION OF DOUBLE JEOPARDY, A FAILURE TO INDICT IS NOT AN ACQUITTAL.  THE PROSECUTION MAY CONVENE A SECOND GRAND JURY IF, IN ITS OPINION, NEW EVIDENCE WILL BRING ABOUT AN INDICTMENT. In Fact, even an Acquittal in a Jury Trial may not end the Legal Troubles of the Accused or Defendant.  For the Time Being, let us set aside the Recent Controversies, and take a look at History. It is a Sad and Disturbing part of American History that Crimes Directed Against Minority Groups, were often Ignored and Given little notice by Officials Charged with protecting All of its Citizens.  Racial Discrimination against African- Americans, Native Americans and Immigrants from Japan , China and other parts of Asia often meant little protection from Criminal Activities, especially if the Accusation was against a member of the Privileged Class. (Determined by Skin Color or Physical Characteristics.) SEE PT 3. Date-  12/10/2014. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. WHY SHOULD YOUR CONGRESSIONAL REPRESENTATIVE BE ANY DIFFERENT THAN YOU?  PT 1. As another "Crisis" has been averted, and a Temporary Budget keeps the Federal Government running for now, the claims of Shady and Unscrupulous Compromises are coming from all sides. I'm not going to Deny that. Given the Circumstances, its almost certainly True. This is Exemplified by the Inclusion in the Body of the Budget, passed by the House Of Reps., Terminology to Reduce or Eliminate certain parts of Finance Reform Law, set up to hold Irresponsible Investors Accountable for Their Actions. Tax Payer Bailouts were no longer a way out for Incompetence and/or Greed.  This was something Major Financial Institutions did not want, and with Bi-Partisan support, they got it included. The Real Question is this:  How do Politicians, who continually Lobby and Vote for Legislation that seems to Benefit  Very Select Groups of Individuals and Businesses, keep getting Supported and Reelected?  Often, this is by a Majority of Voters who suffer from the Stands they take on the Issues.  Is it some Sinister Plot, A Lack of Insight by the Electorate, or some reason that Has Eluded Detection? The Best way to approach such a Subject is with an understanding of; -  Motivations that Drive People to Act in a Certain Way. -  The Ability of the Average Voter to Understand what is actually at Stake when they Support a Particular Issue, if it is Legislated into Law. -  The Degree of Success a Politician or Political Party has in masking The Real Reasons for the Stands they take on the Issues. -  What you consider an Elected Official to be, and what their function is while in Office.  In other Words, what is considered Important and Most Vital, apart from anything else. These are Questions that must be answered, for it Forces The Electorate to  take a Hard Look at Their own Personal Biases. END OF PART 1. Date-  12/12/2014. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. WHAT PROGRESSIVES MUST LEARN.  PT 3. Well, it seems that the Democrat and Republican Parties have reached an agreement on a Budget Plan.  This will avoid a possible shut down of Government Services. Both sides are claiming that it was the best compromise available, and that both sides needed to give a little to get something in return. I am not going to Quote the Leadership of each Party, explaining the Reasons for Passing The Final Version of the Spending Bill. It's just more empty Rhetoric. However, as with the recent Election, the Progressives are again on the short end.  As Usual, Protecting the Poor and the Downtrodden came out a distant second. How So? Even if you know practically nothing about the Issues contained in the Bill, you can still learn a great deal about who is Defending What, and Why. Republicans who are against Passage, claim that it gives in to PRESIDENT OBAMAS Immigration Policy.  Unfortunately, this has Absolutely nothing to do with current spending, except for the DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY which will not be Funded after the end of FEBRUARY 2015.  See a Fight on the Horizon? Now Democrats who opposed passage of the Budget, were claiming that the Regulations placed on Financial Institutions after 2008 Economic Collapse, were being removed and\or watered down.  This would leave open the possibility of another Tax Payer Funded Bail- Out for Irresponsible Investment Policies by Wall Street Brokers, Banks, and other High Profile Investment Firms. This is a FASCINATING COMPARISON. -  BAILING OUT INSTITUTIONS WHO HAVE INVESTED MONEY UNWISELY AND RECKLESSLY, IS COMPLETELY CONTRARY TO THE CAPITALIST IDEAL OF A FREE MARKET PLACE.  HOWEVER, WHEN YOUR PLAYING WITH TAXPAYER MONEY, THERE ISN'T MUCH PERSONAL RISK, IS THERE.?  -  Whether or not you agree with the Presidents Immigration Policy, one part of the PROGRAM IS-  TO IDENTIFY THOSE WHO ARE IN THIS COUNTRY ILLEGALLY, AND WORKING "UNDER THE TABLE."  THE REASON?-   PART OF THE ABILITY TO STAY IN THE U.S.,  AND WORK TOWARDS CITIZENSHIP, WOULD BE EARNING WAGES THAT ARE LEGALLY REPORTED TO THE GOVERNMENT.  THAT WAY THEY COULD BE TAXED BOTH ON A FEDERAL AND STATE LEVEL. So the Republicans are the Party of Fiscal Responsibility? Date-  12/14/2014. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. WHY SHOULD YOUR CONGRESSIONAL REPRESENTATIVE BE ANY DIFFERENT THAN YOU?  PT 2. When Politicians choose a Campaign Platform to inform the Electorate where they stand on the Issues, they often rely on a Time Tested Advertisers Gimmick; PACKAGING IS JUST AS IMPORTANT, IF NOT MORE IMPORTANT, THAN THE ITEM ITSELF.  CONVINCE THE CONSUMER, ( OR IN THIS CASE THE VOTER) , TO SELECT AN IMAGE OF WHAT THEY THINK IS TRUE, WHILE HIDING THE REALITY OF WHAT THEY ARE ACTUALLY SUPPORTING. So what is the Best Way do this, and isn't this just being Dishonest?  In Addition, how do the you convince the Voters to Fall for it? THIS LEADS INTO THE INITIAL QUESTION: WHAT MOTIVATES PEOPLE TO SUPPORT, CAMPAIGN, AND VOTE FOR A CERTAIN CANDIDATE? I Think this can be Answered in Two Parts: 1) THE CANDIDATE MUST GET THE VOTER TO "SUPPORT" WHAT THEY ARE CAMPAIGNING FOR. WHY?  BECAUSE IT IS IN THE VOTERS "BEST INTEREST." WHETHER OR NOT IT REALLY IS DOESN'T MATTER.    2)  THAT BY SUPPORTING A PARTICULAR CANDIDATE OR POLITICAL PARTY, YOU ARE ALSO DOING WHAT IS BEST FOR EVERYONE ELSE. HOW DO YOU KNOW THIS?  THE CANDIDATE WILL TELL YOU. This is the PACKAGING I mentioned above.  The CANDIDATE becomes the Champion not only of those who Support Them, but those who are not Smart enough to see the Wisdom in Electing them to Office. Now, None of the Above can be Accomplished, without a carefully crafted Game Plan.  You can't simply pick up a Book, Open It, and find a One- Size- Fits- All "BEST INTEREST" TACTIC TO FOOL THE VOTERS.  It must be Tailored to the ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL DEMOGRAPHICS OF THOSE WHO MAKE UP THE VOTING AGE POPULATION. Date-  12/21/2014. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. WHAT PROGRESSIVES MUST LEARN.  PT 4. So what should Progressives, Liberals , and other Groups that believe Government has a Moral Responsibility to Aid those in need, do to Change the Opinions of those who Vote Against them? #1-  Acknowledge that the Selfish, Self-Centered, and Dishonest also Vote, so Quit trying to Win over everyone through Fear of Confrontation. #2-  Stop Allowing Republicans and Tea- Party Candidates to Hijack the Moral High Ground, when its Media Campaign is Transparent, and Easily Refuted.    #3-  By the Almost Incredible Inability to Stand Up to the Outright Lies and Misrepresentations that are Thrown Around come Election Time, regarding Programs that Help the Poor and Disadvantaged. #4-  When Statistics are Trotted Out about possible Fraudulent Activities in Social Programs, Research and Demand the Sources for such Claims, and Contrast Them with them with  Public Funds Lost Through;  -  Corporate Bailouts.  -  Tax Breaks that do not, or are not required to Benefit the Taxpayer. -  Funds Acquired Through Government Contracts, that are Shifted to Foreign Markets with no Positive Affects on the U.S. Economy. -  Refusing to Raise Wages to a Minimal Level, which Encourages Self- Sufficiency, and Decreases the  Need for Government Aid. ... Other Policies that Push an Agenda that Benefits a Narrow Set of American Citizens.   #5-  Point Out to Voters, who have Benefited from  Programs Instituted by the Progressive Agenda, that what has been Won by Voting, can be Lost or Unfunded by Not Voting. These Points will be covered Individually in Future Posts. Date-  12/25/2014. Scroll down for future posts. THE SOCIOPATH- A DANGER ALL AROUND US. PT 17. Now we come to an area that is not often discussed when the definition of a "SOCIOPATH" leaves the World of Academia, and becomes a Practical Matter that Affects the Lives of those Suffering from the Malevolent Behavior of such an Individual. Diagnosing somebody as Sociopathic isn't Easy. While the Psychiatric Profession may be Equipped to Render such a Judgment, it would not be easy unless the Potential Diagnosee agreed to Sessions that would allow Direct Contact, with Open and Unscripted Dialogue. However, as we have seen, the Sociopath Doesn't believe they are in anyway a "HAZARD" or "DETRIMENT" to anyone else. If there is a problem, it is the Fault of others, who cannot Handle The Natural Intellectual Superiority that the SOCIOPATH feels sets them apart from "Lesser People." To put it simply, they use others because of the Weaknesses Perceived, and Tough Luck if they don't realize it. It's NOT THE SOCIOPATHS FAULT. This is also Subject to the Willingness of the Individual under Scrutiny, to be Honest, and Forthcoming about Their Behavior, and how it affects those they come in contact with. Part of the Sociopathic Profile is the Ability to Convince others that they have Feelings, Emotions, and Reactions just like everyone else, when in fact, the SOCIOPATH has none of these. So, in the end, it could be You, a Relative, or a Friend who is left with the Unenviable Task of Realizing someone close to you could be Sociopathic, and you must learn how to deal with it. Unfortunately, you may end up confronting such an Individual, who has become an Important Part of your Life. Perhaps they Fulfill a certain need that has been Lacking, and that loss may seem an Unreasonable Price to pay, if you remove them from your Life altogether. WHAT CAN YOU DO? FEATURE ARTICLES. WHAT PROGRESSIVES MUST LEARN.  PT 5. Evaluating the different points from Part 4, about what Progressives can do to Succeed in Electing Candidates who believe in the same Principles of Government, including the Responsibilities and Duties it has to its Citizens. #1-  Acknowledge that the Selfish, Self-Centered, and Dishonest also Vote, so Quit trying to Win over everyone through Fear of Confrontation. This is another Bizarre Tradition that has often puzzled me:  Those who Classify anyone receiving Government Aid to help Alleviate the Symptoms of Poverty as Thriftless, Lazy, and Crooked,  AND ARE ALLOWED TO GET AWAY WITH IT VIRTUALLY UNCHALLENGED. There are no Valid Grounds, Based in Reality, that indicate that this is a Common Occurrence.  In Fact, there is no Evidence that this has ever been the case, and those who push this line of Reasoning offer nothing but Innuendo and Unsupported/Fictional Statistics and Documentation.  Why Progressives, and Their Supporters, Fail to Challenge this Unfounded and Mean Spirited Attack against Millions of Americans is Shameful. Instead of Realizing that these Assaults on the Integrity of the Less Fortunate are OFTEN JUST SMOKESCREENS to Cover- Up Financial Policies that Benefit Wealthier Americans, many Progressives Passively Accept these Heinous Accusations without a fight. GUESS WHAT PROGRESSIVES-  SELFISH AND SELF-CENTERED ARE NOT ATTRIBUTES FOUND JUST AMONG THE POOR.  WHEN DISCUSSING BUDGET ITEMS, LOOK WHERE THE REAL MONEY IS BEING SPENT, OR NOT BEING COLLECTED.  IS ALLOWING PART OF YOUR CONSTITUENCY TO BE  VILIFIED FOR NO GOOD REASON, THE WAY TO GET ELECTED? Date-  1/4/2015. Scroll down for future posts. 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. Date-  1/6/2015. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. UNDERSTANDING THE JURY SYSTEM?  PART 3. What must be understood about a Jury, and convincing them as an Attorney to decide in Their Clients Favor, is NOT JUST a Lesson in Pointing Out; -  How much better your PHYSICAL EVIDENCE is in Establishing Truth. -  The Veracity of the Witnesses who Testify on behalf of your Client. -  How the Opposition has Failed to provide Sufficient Evidence, along with no Compelling Testimony, to decide in Their Favor. The Above, are on the Surface, what people are led to believe is the Proper Function of a Trial Setting.  That both sides present the Evidence, Offer Opposing Conclusions on what it means, and after Instruction by the Trial Judge, retire to decide on a Just and Fair Verdict. Yes, all of the Above can and will probably be brought out during the Trial., but it is not just CONTENT THAT MATTERS, BUT PRESENTATION.  HOW INFORMATION IS GIVEN TO THE JURY,  CAN BE JUST AS IMPORTANT AS THE EVIDENCE ITSELF. Now if a Courtroom/Trial setting was set up to just Determine the Most Accurate Interpretation of the Evidence, and Rendering the Most Just Decision, the Criminal Justice System in the U.S would be much different. WHY? 1)  A JURY IS DRAWN FROM MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY, AND SITTING ONE IS NOT BASED ON ANY ABILITIES THAT POTENTIAL JURORS MAY OR MAY NOT HAVE. 2)  PICKING THE MEMBERS OF A JURY, IS SUBJECT TO PEREMPTORY CHALLENGES BY EITHER ATTORNEY.  QUITE SIMPLY, THIS MEANS DISMISSING INDIVIDUALS REGARDLESS OF THE CAPABILITIES THEY MAY HAVE IN EVALUATING THE MERITS OF EACH SIDE, AND RENDERING A FAIR AND IMPARTIAL VERDICT. 3)  WHILE POTENTIAL JURORS ARE SUPPOSE TO ANSWER ALL QUESTIONS HONESTLY, THOSE WHO HOLD HATEFUL AND IRRATIONAL PREJUDICES MAY SEE NO REASON TO LET THEM KNOWN TO THE COURT. 4)  THE EXTENT TO WHICH PUBLIC OPINION MAY WEIGH ON ANY JURORS MIND, AFFECTING THEIR JUDGMENT.  THIS INCLUDES THE PERCEPTION THAT THE COMMUNITY MAY HAVE ABOUT THE CASE, AND HOW RESIDENT JURORS MAY BE TREATED AFTER THE TRIAL. LOOK FOR MORE ON THIS SUBJECT. Date-  1/9/2015. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. WHAT PROGRESSIVES MUST LEARN.  PT 6. #2-  Stop Allowing Republicans and Tea Party Candidates to Hijack the Moral High Ground, when its Media Campaign  is Transparent, and Easily Refuted.  This is another case of Progressives allowing Conservative Candidates to make assertions about members of the Electorate, without any foundation.  Further, Allowing Race- Baiting, and Nationalistic Fear Mongering to remain unchallenged is giving in to the Lowest Form of Political Rhetoric. This is Best Exemplified by the continued attempts to cast President Obamas Immigration Policy in a way that is not Based in Reality.  It is allowing those Republican Candidates to play on the Fears and Irrationality of those Americans, who either through Racial/Cultural Stereotyping or Lack of Knowledge, believe that anyone who is not an American Citizen is Automatically either a Terrorist or a Freeloader.  How Bad is it?  Here is an example I see all to often. THE ACCUSATION: ALLOWING ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS TO REMAIN IN THIS COUNTRY,  WILL TAKE JOBS AWAY FROM AMERICAN CITIZENS. ALRIGHT, LETS TRY AGAIN, AND SEE IF WE CAN OVERCOME  ANY FLAWS IN THIS TYPE OF STATEMENT. Question #1-  For an ILLEGAL IMMIGRANT To Work in the U.S., WHAT FACTOR IS MOST IMPORTANT, FOR THIS TO BECOME A REALITY? ANSWER-  There must be a Job Available for them to fill.  If there is no work to be done, then there is no controversy. Question #2-  If there are Jobs that cannot be filled by the American Work Force, leaving an Opportunity for Foreign Labor to come in and Satisfy the Need, What Types of Situations must have occurred for this to become Possible.  -  There is a Lack of Qualified Applicants Legally Residing in the U.S., so turning to other sources of Labor is just a matter of survival. -  That the Employment Opportunities in Certain Sectors of the Economy are not Appealing enough to Draw in the needed numbers among the Resident Population. This could be for Economic or Social Reasons. -  That there are Employment Opportunities in Specific Geographical Locations, and the Local Population Cannot, for various reasons, fill the Void. The Above Questions and Answers only Deal with Employment that is Legally Recognized By Law.  This Means that they are Subject to Government Regulations, and the Employer and the Employee must report their Association so that Proper Deductions can be made by both.  This is part of Official Recognition that a Formal Relationship Legally Exists between the Two. However, the Problems that Stem from Legal Employment, are not the Reasons for the CURRENT ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION CONTROVERSY. (TO BE CONTINUED.) Date-  1/13/2015. Scroll down for future posts.    FEATURE ARTICLES. THE 2ND AMENDMENT, GUN CONTROL, AND CUTTING THROUGH  THE NONSENSE.  PT 1. Alright, one step at a time.  Trying to cut through all the Hyperbole about the 2nd Amendment, and how Free or Restrictive Gun Ownership and/or Possession should be, is a daunting task. However, let's give it a try. FIRST-  Here is the Actual Wording of the 2nd 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." Before anything else of value can be done, the initial step must be to: DEFINE WORDS AND TERMS. So, with that in mind, here are a few definitions that must be considered vital to understanding the meaning contained in the 2nd Amendment; MILITIA-  Is the Military Arm of each Individual State, to be called upon by the Governor to protect the Peace and Security within its Proscribed Boarders.  Today, it is now called the NATIONAL GUARD.  It can also be Nationalized, which means it falls under the Authority of the President, to serve the needs of the Entire Country. REGULATED-  In Martial Terms;  An Organized Group operating under a strict set of Rules and Guidelines:  -  That are Derived from, and Subordinate to a Civilian Authority or Government.  -  With a Well- Defined Mission Statement. -  That Outlines the Duties and Expectations Governing Proper and Improper Behavior, and set Punishments for Violations. -  That Establishes a Formal Command Structure, with set standards for Leadership roles, and provides for the Arming and Training of the rank and file. STATE-  Could actually refer to either an individual state, or the U.S. as a whole, depending on the circumstances or mission. RIGHT-  A Protection an Individual has against possible Retribution by the Government, for engaging or participating in certain activities.  PEOPLE-  CITIZEN(S). ARMS-  Any Physical Object that would be easily recognized as a Tool of War,  or is acknowledged to be part of an established Military Arsenal.  Usually, refers to any type of Firearm.  In modern terms, WEAPONS would be a more appropriate term for general usage.  KEEP-  To Store, Control or Maintain a Weapon under the control of a certain group or individual.  BEAR-  To have Immediate Open Physical Possession of a Weapon, which is Legally Recognized. SEE PART TWO. Date-  1/14/2015. Scroll down for future posts. 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? Date-  1/19/2015. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. THE PRESIDENTS STATE OF THE UNION SPEECH; A CHALLENGE TO THE INTELLECTUAL AND MORAL  OPPOSITION.  PT 1. Having Listened to President Obamas STOTUS, and read the Full Transcript, to me the MOST IMPORTANT WORDS COME NEAR THE END. Don't get me wrong, the POLICIES and ISSUES he Discusses are Very Important, and I will look at these in the Near Future.  Unfortunately, if the Attitudes Toward Properly Addressing Divisive Topics doesn't change, it will be an uphill battle to Find and Pass Solutions that are in the Best Interests OF THE PEOPLE LIVING, WORKING AND RAISING FAMILIES IN THE U.S. Line #1-   "Understand – a better politics isn't one where Democrats abandon their agenda or Republicans simply embrace mine." Translation-  "You're not Always Right, and Neither am I.  Lets find Common Ground and Work from there.  The "IT'S MY WAY OR NOTHING ATTITUDE, IS THE ROAD TO FAILURE." Line #2-   "A better politics is one where we appeal to each other's basic decency instead of our basest fears." Translation-  "If we Live in the Gutter, nothing gets accomplished, and Failure, Distrust, and Enmity is the Result.  IF WE LOOK FOR THE GOOD, INSTEAD OF PROMOTING IRRATIONAL  HATE AND FEAR AS AN AGENDA, THE RESULT WOULD BE SOMETHING WE WOULD ALL BE PROUD OF." Line #3-  "A better politics is one where we debate without demonizing each other; where we talk issues, and values, and principles, and facts, rather than "gotcha" moments, or trivial gaffes, or fake controversies that have nothing to do with people's daily lives." Translation-  "As Lawmakers, and Elected Representatives of the American People, OUR JOB IS TO PRIORITIZE REAL ISSUES THAT AFFECT PEOPLES LIVES, NOW AND IN THE FUTURE.  THE ETHICAL AND PRACTICAL APPROACH IS THE BEST SOLUTION, NOT IMMATURE INSULTS AND GLIB ONE LINERS THAT DO NOTHING TO ADDRESS REAL PROBLEMS. CONCENTRATING ON NON- ISSUES IS JUST ANOTHER FORM OF 'POLITICAL GRANDSTANDING', AND A CONTINUATION OF THE TYPICAL 'POLITICS AS USUAL' BRAND OF GOVERNMENT THAT SO MANY AMERICANS DESPISE.' Date-  1/22/2015. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. THE PRESIDENTS STATE OF THE UNION SPEECH; A CHALLENGE TO THE INTELLECTUAL AND MORAL  OPPOSITION.  PT 2. More of President Obamas 1/20/2015 State Of The Union Speech, Emphasizing content that comes near the end. "If we're going to have arguments, let's have arguments – but let's make them debates worthy of this body, and worthy of this country." Translation-  "We are the Leaders of the Most Powerful and Influential Country on Earth.  If there are Disagreements that lead to Arguments, we should Act with the Intellect and Decorum that is Expected of World Leaders.  To do Less, is a Betrayal to the People and the Country we have Chosen to Serve." After the Previous Statements about Improving the Nasty, Cruel and Often Pointless Nature of Political Discourse that seems to Permeate the Hallowed Halls of Congress, the President Moves on, Touching on Topics that still cause a Great Deal of Controversy: "... that every woman should have access to the health care she needs." "...but surely we can all see something of ourselves in the striving young student, and agree that no one benefits when a hardworking mom is taken from her child, and that it's possible to shape a law that upholds our tradition as a nation of laws and a nation of immigrants." "...surely we can agree that the right to vote is sacred; that it's being denied to too many; and that, on this 50 anniversary of the great march from Selma to Montgomery and the passage of the Voting Rights Act, we can come together, Democrats and Republicans, to make voting easier for every single American." Obviously, These are Meant to Express the Presidents Belief on how WE SHOULD APPROACH THE DIVISIVE ISSUES OF UNIVERSAL MEDICAL CARE, IMMIGRATION LAW, AND THE VOTING RIGHTS ACT. While there is nothing in the Above that would cause us Pause, for the President is just Reiterating his Beliefs and Goals regarding these Issues, at no TIME DOES HE ATTACK THE REPUBLICAN PARTY, TEA PARTY, OR ANY OTHER GROUP THAT MAY DISAGREE WITH HIS POSITION ON THESE SUBJECTS.  HE REFUSES TO TAKE OPPOSING VIEWS PERSONALLY, NOT PUTTING HIS OWN FEELINGS AHEAD OF ANYTHING ELSE. THAT IS THE BEGINNING OF "DEBATES WORTHY OF THIS BODY, AND WORTHY OF THIS COUNTRY." Date-  1/25/2015. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. THE PRESIDENTS STATE OF THE UNION SPEECH; A CHALLENGE TO THE INTELLECTUAL AND MORAL  OPPOSITION.  PT 3. A Final Analysis of President Obamas 1/20/2015 STATE OF THE UNION SPEECH. "If you share the broad vision I outlined tonight, join me in the work at hand. If you disagree with parts of it, I hope you’ll at least work with me where you do agree. And I commit to every Republican here tonight that I will not only seek out your ideas, I will seek to work with you to make this country stronger." Translation-  "It is True that I, and Certain Members of Congress, will probably Disagree about which Issues should take Priority over the Course of the Next Two Years, and what should be done to make things Better for the American people." "However, what is Most Important does not Lie in the Opposing Views we may have, but in the Method Chosen to Resolve Differences. Instead of Treating One Another Like the Enemy, we must come Together to Accomplish what needs to get Done." "To make this Happen, I am Reaching Out to the Republican Party.  I Promise to Seek out Your Advice, and Listen to Your Opinions about Resolving the Differences we have, to the Greater Benefit of the American People." "The Keys are Working Together, Finding Common Ground, and Putting the Best Interests of All Ahead of the Desire to See the Opposition Fail." Finally, I Think the Following Sums Up PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMAS VISION FOR A BETTER TOMORROW. ( AGAIN TAKEN FROM THE TRANSCRIPT OF THE SPEECH.) "For all our blind spots and shortcomings, we are a people with the strength and generosity of spirit to bridge divides, to unite in common effort, and help our neighbors, whether down the street or on the other side of the world." "I want our actions to tell every child, in every neighborhood: your life matters, and we are as committed to improving your life chances as we are for our own kids." "We are a people who value the dignity and worth of every citizen man and woman, young and old, black and white, Latino and Asian, immigrant and Native American, gay and straight, Americans with Mental Illness or Physical Disability." PRETTY RADICAL STUFF, ISN'T IT? Date-  1/29/2015. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. THE 2ND AMENDMENT, GUN CONTROL, AND CUTTING THROUGH  THE NONSENSE.  PT 2. Now that we have looked at the wording in the 2nd Amendment, and analyzed the meaning, what is left? A VERY LARGE PART, THAT IS USUALLY IGNORED. YOU SEE, THE "MILITIA" IS ALSO MENTIONED IN AN EARLIER PART OF THE U.S. CONSTITUTION.   Does this give us any information about how the 2nd Amendment was meant to be interpreted?  Lets find out. The area of the Constitution I am referring to is SECTION 8 OF ARTICLE 1.  Here is the passage that applies to the current discussion. (Direct Quotes are in Italics.) THE Congress shall have Power... To make Rules for the Government and Regulation of the land and naval Forces. SEE #1 FOR BREAKDOWN. To provide for calling forth the Militia to execute the Laws of the Union, suppress Insurrections and repel Invasions; SEE #2 FOR BREAKDOWN. To provide for organizing, arming, and disciplining, the Militia, and for governing such Part of them as may be employed in the Service of the United States, reserving to the States respectively, the Appointment of the Officers, and the Authority of training the Militia according to the discipline prescribed by Congress; SEE #3 FOR BREAKDOWN. BREAKDOWN. #1-  All parts of the U.S. Armed Forces fall under the Jurisdiction of the U.S. Congress. #2-  Is Basically, placing the Militia under the authority of the Federal Government, in case of National Emergency that threatens the entire country. #3-  From the wording, we find several very important directives; -  That the U.S. Congress is responsible for Forming, Equipping and Setting Guidelines for the MILITIA/NATIONAL GUARD. -  That any part of these State Military Forces that can be used for National Defense, are to come under the Authority of the U.S. Congress. -  That the Appointment of Officers, and the responsibility of Training these Troops, lies with the States. -  However, the Training  must be done in a manner that is not determined by the Individual States, but by THE U.S. CONGRESS. LOOK FOR PART 3. Date-  1/31/2015. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. WHAT PROGRESSIVES MUST LEARN.  PT 7. When Talking about Illegal Immigrants taking Jobs away from Citizens, the Convenient and Simplistic explanation is that if They are removed from the Picture, then Unemployed Americans will step in to fill the Void. If this were True, it would be quite easy to find out to what extent that this is actually the case.  Those who are Legally Collecting Unemployment, and are Actively searching for Work, are suppose to keep Track of all Potential Employment Opportunities.  If they are Rejected for an Open Job Position, or just filled out an Application, They must list this on a Job Search Form.  Every Potential Employer is then Subject to Verifying that such a contact took place. If an Employer fills Job Vacancies with Illegal Labor, they would find Themselves Hard Pressed to explain the Rejection of so many Potential Workers, ESPECIALLY IF THE JOB OPENINGS WERE PUBLICLY POSTED.  If They Assert that there were no VACANCIES TO BE FILLED, THEN TAX RECORDS WOULD REVEAL THE NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES THAT ARE LISTED ON THE BOOKS, WHAT THEIR PAY STRUCTURE IS, AND IF THERE ARE FORMER EMPLOYEES COLLECTING UNEMPLOYMENT. Those who Blame the Illegal Immigrant for taking Jobs away from Citizens, are BEING DUPED BY THOSE BUSINESSES AND CORPORATIONS WHO REALIZE THAT MINIMUM WAGE LAW, WORKERS COMP,  AND OSHA DON'T MATTER IF YOU ARE PAYING WAGES TO INDIVIDUALS WHO ARE NOT LEGALLY RECOGNIZED BY GOVERNMENT AGENCIES, AND DON'T APPEAR ON ANY EMPLOYMENT ROLLS. Date-  2/3/2015. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. THE SOCIOPATH-  A DANGER ALL AROUND US.  PT 20. So, what are some other Clues that Could INDICATE you are dealing with a SOCIOPATH. To Manipulate Others, and create Situations That can be Exploited for Their Own Benefit, Sociopaths are Natural Liars and Gossips who will Direct Their Venom at just about Anyone, be it Family, Friend, Co-Worker or Acquaintance.  You may Notice a Complete Lack of Loyalty to Any Person or Institution. The Sociopath, by Their Nature, Cares About Nothing but Fulfilling the Personal Needs and Desires that are Found in Their own Mind.  Sometimes it might mean helping others, sometimes not. The Difference is how the Outcome will Benefit Them.  Together, with the Lack Empathy for how people may be affected by Their Decisions, the Sociopath may seem to Love and Understand Another Individual One Minute, then Hate and Ignore Them the Next.  This Type of Behavior Often Confuses those around Them, who do not Understand the Sociopaths True Motivations. Along with this Lack of Loyalty to Anyone else, the Sociopath is Always seeking Allies to Support Their Own Agenda.  To this End, The Sociopath is Quite Able to Switch Opinions about What They Think of Others at a Moments Notice. In Other Words, they may Praise the Qualities and Virtues of an Individual One Day, THEN TEAR THEM APART THE NEXT.  What has changed?  It is Whichever Set of Opinions Suits Their Purposes Best. This Leads us to a Common Misunderstanding about the Behavior of the Sociopath.  Many People Expect to Find an AMORAL BULLY when a Sociopath is Finally Exposed, who ran Roughshod over anyone in Their Way.  While that COULD BE TRUE TO SOME EXTENT, IT IS NOT NECESSARILY TRUE IN SOME OR ALL SITUATIONS.  The BULLY OFTEN LACKS THE DISCIPLINE TO PROPERLY DEAL WITH OTHERS IN ACHIEVING PERSONAL GOALS. INTIMIDATION IS THEIR TOOL TO CONTROL OTHERS, BUT IT IS SELDOM HARD TO SPOT, AND OFTEN LEADS TO THE BULLIES  DOWNFALL. THIS IS NOT TRUE WHEN WE EXAMINE THE MINDSET OF THE SOCIOPATH. Date-  2/8/2015. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. THE MOST DANGEROUS ONE OF ALL.  PT 1. With the New Congress back in session, the Familiar Pattern of Using Rhetoric to Back- Up the Refusal to Work with the President is back in Full Swing. The Economy is Surging Forward, Consumer Spending and Confidence is up, so the Republican/Tea Party is running out of Excuses to Blame the President for just about anything. However, the Attempt to Block Same- Sex Marriages in Alabama, in Violation of a Federal Court Order Striking Down the Ban, gives Hope to Extremist Republicans that all is not lost.  Why? Because the Block of Voters that Continue to Vote For, and Support Them, are still around to Shout out the Battle Cry of Irrationality, Prejudice, and Freedom for the Chosen Ones. Don't you wonder how a group of Politicians Keeps getting Elected Even Though: -  They never seem to Support Anything that would BENEFIT MOST AMERICANS in the Long and/or Short Term. -  They Oppose Protections FOR ALL AMERICANS AGAINST DUBIOUS FINANCIAL PRACTICES.  -  THEY WISH TO ABOLISH SOCIAL PROGRAMS THAT ANY AMERICAN CAN RECEIVE IF NEEDED.  BECAUSE THEY KNOW HOW TO WORK, EXPLOIT, AND MOTIVATE  THE MOST DESTRUCTIVE GROUP OF VOTERS THAT CAN BE FOUND IN A GOVERNMENT THAT IS A FREE AND OPEN CONSTITUTIONAL               REPUBLIC, LIKE THE UNITED STATES.                       WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF THE HYPOCRITE. MY DEFINITION-  ANY PERSONS BELIEF OR SET OF BELIEFS, THAT CREATES STANDARDS FOR LEGALITY AND/OR MORAL ACCEPTANCE THAT ARE APPLIED TO OTHERS, BUT CHANGE WHEN APPLIED TO THEM PERSONALLY. Date-  2/11/2015. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. WHAT PROGRESSIVES MUST LEARN.  PT 8. There is one thing, probably more than anything else, that has held Back Progressives from Achieving Electoral Success on a Regular Basis. Care to Guess?  It is an Internal, Self- Inflicted Mindset that Conservatives, especially Tea Party Candidates, have used on a regular basis. IT IS THE FAILURE OF PROGRESSIVES AND LIBERALS TO STAND TOGETHER.  TO OFTEN, GROUPS THAT PROCLAIM THEMSELVES AS PROGRESSIVE, EXIST AS ONE OR TWO ISSUE GROUPS.  THE REASONING THAT LED TO CREATING AND ORGANIZING OTHER LIKE- MINDED INDIVIDUALS TO PASS LEGISLATION AND ELECT SYMPATHETIC CANDIDATES, IS NOT CARRIED OVER INTO OTHER AREAS. It is Astonishing to Listen to a "PROGRESSIVE VOTER", Who sees an Injustice and Wants to Affect a Change in the Law to Remedy this Iniquity, Refusing to use the Same Thought Process if it Deals with an Issue That Doesn't Appeal to Them Directly. Unfortunately, this Lack of a Consistent Line of Moral Guidelines that are NOT UNIVERSAL IN NATURE, SETS PROGRESSIVES AGAINST ONE ANOTHER, AND BREEDS RESENTMENT THAT LEADS TO ELECTORAL FAILURE. I have heard the Argument that concludes with the-  "...their not all the same. Social , Economic, and Other Domestic Agenda Issues Deal with Different Problems, and Need Different Solutions." That may be, but it Doesn't Explain or Solve the UNDERLYING PROBLEM THEY ALL HAVE IN COMMON;  INEQUALITY UNDER THE LAW, WHETHER IT IS: -  UNFAIR LABOR OR WAGE PRACTICES. -  ELIGIBILITY AND AVAILABILITY FOR  GOVERNMENT FUNDS TO ADDRESS HARDSHIP, IN ALL ITS FORMS. -   FAIR TREATMENT GIVEN TO ALL COMPETENT ADULTS REGARDING MARRIAGE LAW. -  ENSURING EQUAL TREATMENT IN A COURT OF  LAW, WHERE THE SIZE OF YOUR WALLET DOESN'T = THE AMOUNT  OF JUSTICE YOU'LL RECEIVE. MEANS THAT ONE PERSON IS GIVEN AN ADVANTAGE, HELPING HAND, OR JUST AN OPEN DOOR, THAT SOMEONE ELSE IS NOT. WHO IS THE WINNER WHEN THIS HAPPENS?   Date-  2/14/2015. Scroll down for future posts.  FEATURE ARTICLES. HOW CAN WE FIGHT TERRORISM?  PT 1. To Answer this Question, Several Other Things Must Considered;  -  Exactly what is TERRORISM? -  What are the Goals behind it, and what are the Motivations? -  Do the Methods Used by Terrorists Work, in Achieving the Desired Goals? -  Are the Tactics of Terrorists Self- Defeating, always Doomed to Failure, or are They Practical, and Often lead to Success? -  Should Terrorist Tactics be Answered in Kind? The First Question that must be Addressed is simply, what is TERRORISM?  First, Terrorism is not an Ideology, it is a Means to an End. There are no Specific Set of Rules or Written Doctrine that Encompasses all Terrorist Groups and Individuals, and no Identifiable Code of Law or Morality that is Universal in Nature. To Clarify, I will Define TERRORISM AS:  THE USE OF VIOLENCE, OR THREAT OF SUCH, TO ADVANCE THE DOCTRINE, IDEOLOGY, RULES, OR GOALS OF A GIVEN AND IDENTIFIABLE GROUP THAT IS NOT GENERALLY REGARDED AS A LEGITIMATE POLITICAL ENTITY, OR THE RECOGNIZED LEGAL AUTHORITY FOR A RESIDENT POPULATION OR GEOGRAPHICAL AREA. HOWEVER, THE TARGETS OF SUCH VIOLENCE ARE NOT TRADITIONAL, SUCH AS MILITARY INSTALLATIONS AND GOVERNMENTAL OFFICES. CIVILIAN POPULATION CENTERS, BUSINESS AND CONSUMER DISTRICTS, AND PLACES OF RELIGIOUS WORSHIP BECOME THE PREFERRED AREAS TO CREATE DEATH AND DESTRUCTION.  THE DESIRE IS TO ESTABLISH A DISRUPTION IN NORMAL ACTIVITIES, AND A GENERAL SENSE OF PANIC AMONG THOSE WHO FREQUENT, OR LIVE IN THESE AREAS. THE PURPOSE-  CREATE AN ATMOSPHERE THAT WILL CAUSE THE CIVILIAN/MERCHANT POPULATION TO  BECOME SO TRAUMATIZED AND FRIGHTENED, THAT IT FORCES THE POLITICAL/GOVERNMENTAL POWERS RESPONSIBLE FOR ADMINISTERING AND PROTECTING THESE AREAS, TO GRANT CONCESSIONS, ENTER INTO NEGOTIATIONS, OR AGREE TO THE STATED GOALS AND POLICIES OF THE TERRORIST ORGANIZATION.  The Terrorist(s) are not Interested in the Traditional Types of Warfare and Combat. WHY?  Because They Usually Lack the Numbers and Quality of Combatants and Armaments to Engage in Set Piece Battles.  So to Attack Military and Civilian Strong Points that are Well Protected would be Useless.  The Terrorists would be going up against Forces Designed and Trained to Meet, Engage, and Defeat Opposing Forces Conducting Normal Combat Operations.  Is Terrorism a New Phenomena, or can we Find Examples in other Parts of Human History?  Is it an External Threat Alone, or is there an Internal Danger Just as Dangerous and Potentially Destructive. LOOK FOR PART 2. Date-  2/17/2015. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. THE SOCIOPATH-  A DANGER ALL AROUND US.  PT 21. The SOCIOPATH realizes that being a Bully, at least in Certain Situations, would be Counter-Productive.  Confrontation Leads to Arguments and Animosity, which Causes Individuals to Pick and Choose Sides.  The Creation of Enemies or Foes will Initially Work against the Sociopath, if They are in a Situation that is New,  Because the Groundwork has not been laid to Work Both Sides of the Fence. The Sociopath is Much More Likely, in the Beginning, to seek out the Bully.  By Endearing Themselves to such an Individual, They Have an Unwitting Ally to Carry out the Dirty Work, and Expand Their Power within the group. Of course the Sociopath wants the Bullies Help to remove Obstacles, but doesn't want anyone to Notice This Change, or to Realize that the Bully has a New Confidant.  This Takes a Delicate Hand, and the Ability to see the Needs and Weaknesses of Both Sides.  The Success of Such an Operation can Lead to the SOCIOPATHS GREATEST PERSONAL ACCOMPLISHMENT, AT LEAST IN TERMS OF FINANCIAL AND PROFESSIONAL ENRICHMENT: THE ABILITY TO PLAY BOTH SIDES AGAINST EACH OTHER, AND COME OUT OF IT WITH NOTHING MORE THAN HURT FEELINGS AND A SENSE OF BETRAYAL ON BOTH SIDES.  A SOCIOPATH CAN SHOW ANGRY CONDEMNATION, PRETENDING TO AGREE WITH THOSE WHO HATE AND FEAR THE BULLY, WHILE AT THE SAME TIME SYMPATHIZING WITH THE BULLY ABOUT THE LACK OF RESPECT THAT THEY ARE GIVEN BY THE OPPOSITION.   Of Course, such an Ending does not Bother the Sociopath. Neither side was ever FRIEND OR FOE, ENEMY OR ALLY, JUST OBJECTS TO BE USED TO SATISFY THE DESIRES AND NEEDS THAT LIVE IN THE MIND OF THE SOCIOPATH. Remember, A LACK OF EMPATHY, MEANS THAT WHAT HAPPENS TO OTHERS IS OF NO CONSEQUENCE TO THE SOCIOPATH, UNLESS IT HINDERS THEIR ABILITY TO FULFILL PERSONAL GOALS.  A SOCIOPATH DISCARDS FRIENDS AND ALLIES QUITE EASILY, ONCE THEY HAVE SERVED THEIR PURPOSE. Date-  2/21/2015. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. THE MOST DANGEROUS ONE OF ALL.  PT 2. Don't Misunderstand, there is nothing Illegal about being a HYPOCRITE.  While Being Self- Centered and Selfish may be Morally Wrong, it is not against the Law.   The Hypocrite can be an Individual, that in Normal Circumstances, would recognize the Inherent Double Standards that They are Supporting on Certain Issues.  Unlike the SOCIOPATH, who could care less whether or not Their Opinions and Actions are HYPOCRITICAL, Most People don't want to Think that They are Engaging in a SELF- CENTERED LINE OF THOUGHT. To Overcome this Sense of Being UNFAIR AND DESTRUCTIVE TO OTHERS, THE HYPOCRITE LOOKS FOR A WAY TO DELUDE THEMSELVES INTO BELIEVING THAT THEY ARE DOING THE RIGHT THING, FOR EVERYONE CONCERNED. What Better way to do this, then to find another who will CREATE AN EXCUSE, and ABSOLVE YOU OF ANY NEGATIVE CONSEQUENCES THAT OCCUR TO THOSE WHO ARE VICTIMIZED BY THE UNEQUAL TREATMENT THAT YOU BELIEVE IS JUSTIFIED. Where could we find such Individuals, Those who are more than Willing to Lay Out an Argument for Inequality in the Justice System? They would also have No Reluctance in Persecuting Actions that Harm No one, In Creating and Keeping Laws on the Books that Favor one Group over Another, and Worst of all, Legislating the Religious Doctrine of One Faith into Rules for Everyone.  WHAT TYPE OF PERSON WOULD THAT BE? It sounds like someone looking to GAIN POWER OVER OTHERS, AND ISN'T TO PARTICULAR ABOUT HOW IT IS DONE.  JUST LOOK AT SOME OF THOSE ELECTED TO PUBLIC OFFICE.  HOW MANY SITTING IN THE SEATS OF POWER, WERE PUT THERE BY FEEDING A PORTION OF THE ELECTORATE A REASON TO FEEL JUSTIFIED IN TREATING A MINORITY GROUP WITH DIFFERENT STANDARDS OF MORALITY, IN AND OUT OF THE LEGAL SYSTEM? Date-  2/24/2015. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. WHAT PROGRESSIVES MUST LEARN.  PT 9. As we have seen during the Last Week, much of the opposition to President Obamas Immigration plan is Juvenile and Petty.   Whether or not it's Rudy Giulianis claim that the President "Doesn't  Love America,"  or John Boehners and other Republicans refusal to Fund Homeland Security unless they get Their way, it is an Immaturity that Belongs on a School Playground, not the Halls of Congress. Insults and a Refusal to Compromise, are the Weapons of the Desperate and the Delusional, who can't believe that everyone else Doesn't Follow Their Lead. (Even Members of the same party.) These are Things Progressives should be Pointing Out on A Regular Basis.  When These Types of Tactics are used, the Response Should Not be Deliberately Provocative or on the Same Intellectual Level, for it Blurs the Actual Reason Behind the Inability to come to a Reasonable Solution. In other Words, Don't let Them pull you down, because They have already Started to Sink.  If Both Sides Resort to Identical Means in getting Their Point Across and to Gain the Support of the Majority, there is Little to Differentiate One From the Other. So what should the Progressive Response be in such a case? What Could Convince the Voters, ( Both Supporters and Opponents), of Their Sincerity, and Desire to do the Right Thing? Date-  2/27/2015. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. WHAT PROGRESSIVES MUST LEARN. PT 10. What could PROGRESSIVES DO, TO SEPARATE THEMSELVES FROM THE IRRATIONAL AND OFTEN IMMATURE ATTACKS OF THE OPPOSITION? 1)  Do not Adopt the same Strategy. Trading Insults, and Using Invalid Arguments meant to Stir Up Prejudicial and Discriminatory Attitudes among Voters, is Intellectually Dishonest and Morally Reprehensible.  Progressives must give the Public a Real Alternative to the Irrational Scare Tactics of the Opposition.  In Other Words, When Discussing  Policy Issues that Affect every Citizen, give the Audience an Opportunity to see the Opposition for what They really Are.  If They want to live in the Gutter that is created by Their Attitudes and Arguments, don't join Them. 2)  Make the Opposition Clarify and Defend any Assertion or Conclusion that They are making, regarding Their Support or Opposition to any Law or Policy Change. Lets Face it, Many Politicians and Lawmakers live for the Opportunity to Hang Certain Tags on Their Opponents.  Call Them on it. Make Them JUSTIFY WHAT THEY ARE SAYING, AND ZERO IN ON THE ATTITUDES AND BELIEFS THAT ARE ESPOUSING.  THESE ARE OFTEN INDICATED BY THE TYPES OF CRITICISMS BEING LEVELED AGAINST THOSE WHO DO NOT WANT TO SEE THEM CONTROLLING PUBLIC POLICY AND LAW. To put it another way, do not let any Person, Group or Political Party get away with Baseless Accusations, or Irrational Conclusions.  DON'T FEAR THE OPINIONS OF THOSE WHO TOSS CRITICAL THINKING AND LOGIC OUT THE WINDOW, THEY REPRESENT THE WORST OUR POLITICAL SYSTEM HAS TO OFFER. Date-  3/1/2015. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. HOW CAN WE FIGHT TERRORISM?  PT 2. In Part 1, we looked at the Difference Between TERRORISTS, and the Traditional Military.  The Major Differences being the GOALS, COMBAT MISSION STRATEGY AND TACTICS, AND THE COMMAND AUTHORITY THAT DIRECTS ITS ACTIONS. Now, if we look back through History, the Use of Fear and Terror to Intimidate the Civil Populations of Opponents and Enemies is Prevalent in Many, if not all, Wars and Conflicts.   From the Middle East, Africa, Europe and Asia we have examples of the Roman Legions, Huns, Mongols as well as Christian and Moslem Military Forces, Among Many Others, engaging in Wars of Annihilation.  In Other Words, Surrender or Submit, or Face Massacre and Elimination. In Modern Warfare, some Military Strategists Argued that Inflicting and Causing Grievous Harm to Civilian Populations, would lead to a Collapse of the Sitting Government, because the Non- Military Citizenry would Refuse to support a Continuation of The Conflict, to the Point of Removing those In Power. However, History has shown that such Thinking has had Little Affect in Causing a General Uprising by the Resident Population, which would Lead to an Overthrow of the Individuals and Groups Controlling the Central Government.  It is still the Elimination, Suppression or Capitulation of the Opposing Military that leads to Victory. What can we take from this Lesson?  Something that Many of Those Using the Strategy and Tactics of Terror Forget;  That Instilling Fear and Apprehension in a Population may cause a Temporary Change in the Daily Lives of Those Under Such Threats, but to Think it will Result in the Populace Turning Their Lives over to the Control of a Rival Power is an Unrealistic Fantasy Doomed to Failure. That Leads to a Second Important Point; That Those who look at History, and Indicate the Times that Terror and Fear were used by Countries, Conquerors, and Armies, Against Population and Economic Centers, did so TO SUPPORT EXISTING MILITARY POLICY.  TERROR, BY ITSELF, WAS NEVER   THE PRIMARY STRATEGY TO ACHIEVE ULTIMATE VICTORY. Date-  3/8/2015. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. WORDS FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA SAE FRATERNITY CHANT. LISTEN CLOSELY, IT'S NOT JUST RACISM.  PT 1. Now that several days have past, and the Outrage Stemming from the Video of the University of Oklahomas SAE Fraternity Chapters Racist Rant,  has brought Punishments and Sanctions,  Apologies and Regrets. Yet, as Reprehensible as the words are, not enough attention has been paid to the ENTIRE MESSAGE CONTAINED WITHIN., AND WHAT IT REALLY MEANS. I am not going to Repeat the Entire Chant Here, its not long, and can  found on the Internet on Numerous Sites.  However, what can we take  from it, and the Attitudes it Represents? #1-  IT EXCUSES DOMESTIC TERRORISM. The Following Words, Taken From the Second Part, Should Make every Americans Blood Run Cold: "... YOU CAN HANG THEM FROM A TREE..."                           THIS IS A DIRECT REFERENCE TO THE RACIAL CRIME OF                                          LYNCHING. LYNCHING, WAS AN ALL TO COMMON CRIMINAL ACT FROM AMERICAN  HISTORY.  FOUND PRIMARILY IN THE SOUTHERN UNITED STATES,  (IN FORMER MEMBERS OF THE CONFEDERACY), IT WAS USED AGAINST MINORITY RACIAL, RELIGIOUS AND IMMIGRANT GROUPS WHO WERE  CONSIDERED DANGEROUS AND INFERIOR.  AFRICAN- AMERICANS WERE, BY FAR, THE MOST FREQUENT VICTIMS.  ANY ATTEMPT AT ASSERTING THEIR RIGHTS, OR EVEN EXPRESSING A  DESIRE FOR EQUALITY UNDER THE LAW, COULD BE MET WITH A VISIT  FROM "MIDNIGHT RIDERS,"  WHO WOULD HANG THE "OFFENDERS" FROM  A TREE.   THIS WAS DONE AS A WARNING OR LESSON TO OTHERS, NOT TO UPSET  THE "STATUS QUO,"  AND TO "KEEP THEIR PLACE." THIS IS A TACTIC OF TERRORISM. LOOK FOR PART 2. Date-  3/12/2015. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. WORDS FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA SAE FRATERNITY CHANT. LISTEN CLOSELY, IT'S NOT JUST RACISM.  PT 2. To Continue with this Topic, I will Reprint a Definition of "TERRORISM" from a Previous Article. TERRORISM :  THE USE OF VIOLENCE, OR THREAT OF SUCH, TO ADVANCE THE DOCTRINE, IDEOLOGY, RULES, OR GOALS OF A GIVEN AND IDENTIFIABLE GROUP THAT IS NOT GENERALLY REGARDED AS A LEGITIMATE POLITICAL ENTITY, OR THE RECOGNIZED LEGAL AUTHORITY FOR A RESIDENT POPULATION OR GEOGRAPHICAL AREA. LYNCHINGS were part of PROMOTING AND MAINTAINING A SPECIFIC IDEOLOGY that was still present in the POST CIVIL WAR SOUTH. (Unfortunately, while OPEN SUPPORTERS OF SUCH A DOCTRINE HAVE Reduced Drastically in Numbers in Todays U.S., They are still around).   This IDEOLOGY,  BEST KNOWN AS "WHITE SUPREMACY," WAS NEVER RECOGNIZED AS A LEGITIMATE ORGANIZED POLITICAL UNIT OR PARTY, AND THROUGH CONSTITUTIONAL LAW COULD NEVER ENFORCE OR LEGALIZE ITS PRIMARY AGENDA, WHICH WAS THE ABSOLUTE SEPARATION OF THE RACES IN ALL WALKS OF LIFE.   FURTHER, THAT WHITE AMERICANS DESERVED SPECIAL TREATMENT, AND ALL OTHER RACIAL GROUPS WOULD BE PLACED IN A SUBSERVIENT OR SUPPORTING ROLE, SUBJECT TO APPROVAL. BY CAUCASIANS. Since there was Never a Realistic Chance of such an IDEOLOGY BECOMING THE LAW OF THE LAND, WHITE SUPREMACISTS CHOSE TO ATTACK LAWS THEY DIDN'T LIKE BY VICTIMIZING THOSE WHO WERE SUPPOSE TO BE PROTECTED.  Unfortunately, LOCAL AND STATE WHITE SUPREMACISTS OFTEN FOUND ALLIES IN THE COURTROOM. Date-  3/14/2015. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. THE MOST DANGEROUS ONE OF ALL.  PT 3. I would like to make one thing clear: The HYPOCRITE IS BY NO MEANS FOUND IN A SINGLE POLITICAL PARTY, OR REPRESENTS A PARTICULAR POLITICAL, MORAL, OR RELIGIOUS PHILOSOPHY.   They may be more Prevalent on One Side of a DEBATE OR DISCUSSION,but the LACK OF A COHERENT LINE OF REASONING IS NOT FOUND ON JUST ONE SIDE OF THE AISLE.  It is Vital to Identify Hypocritical Thinking as soon as possible, before it has a chance to take hold and become Entrenched in the Minds of Those who may not realize the Inherent Irrationality of what it Truly is. On a Personal Level, I have found it More Discouraging when it Happens Among Those I Think Should Know Better.   On one Hand there are Certain Types of Public Figures, Politicians, Decision Makers etc., I have come to expect it from. Calling out Their Self- Centered and Egotistical Thinking Processes is not a surprise, because They Rarely come up with a Well- Reasoned Line of Argument.  They don't change, and Those who Support the same Agenda could care less anyway. What is Really Troubling, is when I see Intelligent, Insightful, and Focused Individuals Toss out Critical Thinking and Logic, when it Doesn't Lead Them to the Conclusions They Expect, or more likely, Desire.  For Some, it is Difficult to Understand that: LOGIC AND CRITICAL THINKING ARE MENTAL PROCESSES, AND DON'T HAVE A PRECONCEIVED AGENDA THAT WILL LEAD YOU DOWN ANY PATH YOU DESIRE.  THE ARGUMENTS YOU MAKE, THE PREMISES YOU USE, AND THE CONCLUSIONS YOU DRAW ARE SUBJECT TO THE SAME RULES THAT YOUR OPPONENT  MUST OBEY. This leads us to DIFFERENT CATEGORIES OF HYPOCRITE; WHAT THEY HAVE IN COMMON, WHAT SEPARATES THEM, AND THE PROBLEMS EACH PRESENTS TO FINDING SOLUTIONS AND ANSWERS. Date-  3/18/2015. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. WORDS FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA SAE FRATERNITY CHANT. LISTEN CLOSELY, IT'S NOT JUST RACISM.  PT 3. The Tragedy of the Tradition of Lynching in the Southern U.S. wasn't just that it was an example of Domestic Terrorism committed against Innocent Americans TRYING TO EXERT THEIR LEGAL RIGHTS GUARANTEED BY THE CONSTITUTION, BUT THE REFUSAL OF STATE AND LOCAL AUTHORITIES TO EITHER PROSECUTE THE CRIME, OR A RIGGED JURY SYSTEM THAT GUARANTEED ACQUITTALS. These Acts were Finally Stopped, and no longer occur in any Appreciable Number, for Three Basic Reasons; 1-  THE CIVIL RIGHTS MOVEMENT, AND THE CORRESPONDING MEDIA COVERAGE, BROUGHT THE INHUMAN PRACTICE TO THE ATTENTION OF THE REST OF THE U.S., AND TO OTHER COUNTRIES. 2-  THE REALIZATION BY THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT THAT STATE AND LOCAL AUTHORITIES COULD NOT BE RELIED UPON TO COMBAT THESE CRIMINAL ACTS, SO NEW LAWS THAT PROSECUTED LYNCHINGS AS CIVIL RIGHTS VIOLATIONS, SOME OF THE FIRST EXAMPLES OF WHAT WE NOW CALL "HATE CRIMES," CAME INTO BEING. 3-  THE EXTRAORDINARY COURAGE OF ACTIVISTS, BLACK AND WHITE, FROM THE NORTH AND SOUTH, TO TAKE A STAND AGAINST THOSE WHO BELIEVED "FREEDOM" WAS A WORD MEANT FOR THE PRIVILEGED.  ( I WANT TO MAKE ONE THING CLEAR, THAT WITHIN THE SOUTHERN STATES THERE WERE WHITE AMERICANS WHO HATED THE PRACTICE, AND WHAT IT REPRESENTED.  THEIR COURAGE TO STOP THESE ACTS OF TERRORISM, PUTS THEM A SPECIAL PLACE OF HONOR, TO STAND ALONGSIDE THOSE FROM ALL RACES, NATIONALITIES, AND RELIGIONS WHO FIGHT FOR JUSTICE AND FREEDOM.) What is Really Troubling about the SAE Chant, is what it may Imply; -  Given the History of the Civil Rights Movement in the U.S., are the members not aware of what they are saying, or do They Just not care? -   An Attitude That Terrorism is only something that persons from other Countries Commit, not Americans. -  That the Educational System is not Teaching the Lessons of History. -  THAT MAYBE,  AS FAR AS WE HAVE COME,  IT IS STILL NOT FAR ENOUGH. Date-  3/19/2015. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. THE SOCIOPATH-  A DANGER ALL AROUND US.  PT 22. The Fact that the SOCIOPATH can Discard Friends and Allies with little Thought or Emotion, shows us something about how They view the World: -   FRIENDS AND ALLIES ARE NOT TERMS THE SOCIOPATH IDENTIFIES WITH.  IN FACT, THEY DON'T MEAN ANYTHING AT ALL.  A FRIEND OR AN ALLY, TO THEM, IS JUST A MEANS TO AN END.  WHILE OTHERS MAY APPLY THOSE TERMS TO THE SOCIOPATH, WHICH IMPLIES THAT THEY FEEL THE SOCIOPATH CAN BE TRUSTED, CARES ABOUT THEIR WELL BEING, AND WILL STAND WITH THEM IN CASE OF DIFFICULTIES, NOTHING CAN BE FURTHER FROM THE TRUTH. The SOCIOPATH may actually exhibit some of these characteristics, but it is not from a Sense of Honor or a Moral Duty.  The Sociopath may feel that giving the Impression to others that They Follow a Certain of Conduct, will Allow them to EXPLOIT Those who do not realize that the Behavior the Sociopath is Exhibiting is just a Smokescreen to Hide Their Real Intentions and Motivations.  Once The Reasons for the Pretense are gone, and the Sociopath realizes that no more can be Obtained by Acting Like a Caring and Supportive Individual, the VICTIM(S) find Themselves Short a "FRIEND" or "SUPPORTER," AND ARE LEFT WONDERING WHAT HAPPENED. What is Really Unfortunate is that many Times the VICTIM(S), (and I have seen this Time and Time Again), will BLAME SOMETHING THEY MAY HAVE, OR MAY NOT HAVE DONE, AS THE REASON THE SOCIOPATH HAS TURNED AWAY FROM THEM.  THEY WILL SEEK AN EXPLANATION FOR SUCH A BETRAYAL IN THEIR OWN ACTIONS, DECISIONS, AND MOTIVATIONS, NEVER REALIZING THAT THE SOCIOPATH NEVER CARED ABOUT THEM, AND NOW THAT THEY NO LONGER SERVE ANY PURPOSE, ARE FORGOTTEN AND IGNORED.  SOMETIMES, THEY MAY EVEN ATTACH BLAME TO ANOTHER INDIVIDUAL, AS THE CAUSE FOR THE ABANDONMENT BY THE SOCIOPATH. It is often a Misguided Refusal to see Things as they are, for it would be an admission that this person who has Left Them, was not what they pretended to be. Date-  3/23/2015. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. DONALD TRUMP-  THE REPUBLICANS  SECRET WEAPON?  PT 1. Are Donald Trumps Statements about IMMIGRATION AND JOHN MCCAIN, JUST A PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES ATTEMPT TO RALLY MORE SUPPORT, OR IS THERE A LESS APPARENT MOTIVE TO BOLSTER THE REPUBLICAN PARTIES CHANCES OF REGAINING THE WHITE HOUSE.  First the Question must be asked, Why would any Presidential Hopeful  Deliberately Say things Publicly that Disparage and Insult an Entire Ethnic Group, along with a Combat Veteran with a Highly Distinguished  Service Record, who had the Misfortune of being Captured by Enemy Forces? Are We to Take from these Statements that Donald Trump sincerely believes that these Comments will help him secure the Republican Nomination for President, or is there a less apparent motive? From the Response we get from his own Party, it seems hard to believe that anyone would Truly believe that such Venomous Rhetoric would be a Positive Influence in increasing Their chances of gaining the Nomination.  Both Republican and Democrats are Almost Universal in Their Condemnation of Donald Trump, and any Agreement with what he said is Superficial at best.  So, it seems hard to Understand WHY EVERY OTHER CANDIDATE FOR THE REPUBLICAN NOMINATION WOULD REALIZE THE FOLLY OF SUCH STATEMENTS, YET DONALD TRUMP AND HIS ADVISORS DID NOT.  IN FACT, HIS STATEMENTS ABOUT JOHN MCCAIN SEEM TO BE AN ALMOST DELIBERATE ATTEMPT TO TORPEDO HIS OWN CANDIDACY, BY ATTACKING A WAR VETERAN. However, what if the PRESIDENCY IS NOT DONALD TRUMPS GOAL, OR THE GOAL OF THOSE ADVISING HIM.  Suppose the Real Object of his CANDIDACY WAS TO ELECT A SYMPATHETIC REPUBLICAN PRESIDENT, LOOKING TO ELIMINATE ALL THE PROGRESS ACHIEVED BY THE BARACK OBAMA ADMINISTRATION? Date-  7/20/2015. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. DONALD TRUMP-  THE REPUBLICANS  SECRET WEAPON?  PT 2. Donald Trump is Providing the Republican Party with a Needed Type of Candidate: THE "BAD GUY," OR  READY MADE "EXTREMIST," WHO ASSUMES THE POSITION OF A FAR RIGHT CONSERVATIVE WHOSE AGENDA, ATTITUDES, AND VIEWPOINTS GO BEYOND ANYTHING ELSE OFFERED BY A SERIOUS CANDIDATE FOR THE REPUBLICAN NOMINATION FOR PRESIDENT. What Type of Strategy would lead to This, and how would it help the Republican Party? CONSIDER: WITH THE SUCCESS OF THE FOLLOWING; -  THE "AFFORDABLE CARE ACT." -  INCREASING THE MINIMUM WAGE  IN STATES ACROSS THE U.S. - THE LEGALIZATION OF SAME- SEX MARRIAGE. Much of the Republican National Platform is in a Shambles.  The Establishment into Law of These Legislative and Judicial Actions and Rulings has not lead to the Dire Consequences Predicted by Republican Candidates during Recent Elections. These Progressive Victories are Rejections OF THE "DOOM AND GLOOM" Tactics that Certain Candidates for Elected Office, Especially the Darlings of the TEA PARTY, have counted on for so long. Now, Those who have been pushing an AGENDA THAT INCLUDED; -  BEING AGAINST WAGE INCREASES TO HELP ALLEVIATE  POVERTY. -  TRYING TO BLOCK A LAW DRAFTED TO MAKE MEDICAL  INSURANCE AN AFFORDABLE REALITY FOR  ALL AMERICANS. -   NOT ALLOWING CONSENTING COUPLES TO ENTER INTO A  MARRIAGE CONTRACT, WHICH IS BOTH A LEGAL AND MORAL  DECISION, BY ALLOWING RELIGIOUS FAITH TO CONTINUE  DICTATING DOMESTIC POLICY. Must come up with DIFFERENT ISSUES that will become the  "FEAR FACTOR" BOOGEYMEN to Drive Voters into Supporting  Their Candidacy.   However, with Their Stands on Certain Key Issues Being  Overcome by the Opposition, The RHETORIC THEY HAVE USED FOR SO LONG;  LABELING THE OPPOSITION AS;  -  ANTI- BUSINESS. -  ANTI- AMERICAN.  -  ANTI- GOD. -  ANTI- RELIGION. Still Reminds Many Americans of the MEAN SPIRITED, CRUEL, MISLEADING, AND SELF-CENTERED TACTICS THEY USED ON THE CAMPAIGN TRAIL.   THE ANSWER-  FIND SOMEONE WHOSE AGENDA AND OPINIONS  ARE SO VILE AND REPREHENSIBLE THAT IT MAKES THEM SEEM LIKE "MIDDLE OF THE ROAD" OR "COMPROMISE" CHOICES, WHO  WOULD NEVER SUPPORT OR PROMOTE SUCH AN EXTREME NATIONAL PLATFORM.  Does that Description Remind you of any Particular Candidate? Date-  7/25/2015. FEATURE ARTICLES. THE SOCIOPATH-  A DANGER ALL AROUND US.  PT 28. It was Terrible He claimed.  As a Financial Planner I started out  with one of the Largest Brokerage Houses in the Country.  However, I soon lost my way, from the God Fearing Upbringing of my Youth. I was so Successful working for others, that all I could see was Dollar Signs.  After a few years, I left the Company I started out with, and  started my Own Firm.  Bringing Customers with me, I was soon making  more Money than I could possibly spend.  I Thought My Life was Complete when I met a Wonderful Woman, who claimed to Love Me with all Her Heart. I was so Very Wrong. Without the Guidance of Faith, My Priorities were all about having a Good Time, and Making Money. His New Friends Nodded Their Heads with Understanding.  They had heard such Stories before, and looked upon this Man as Repentant and Worthy of Redemption. In just a few days, he moved into his New Home.  At a Housewarming Party sponsored by the Church, the Minister Blesses the House, and many members of the Congregation Visit with new gifts.  He can't say enough to Thank Those who have Helped Him, but Hopes to Return such Kindness in a Manner Worthy of a Grateful Christian. Soon there is even work offered to Him.  It is not of the Blue Collar Variety, because he explained such Hands On Employment would end in Disaster.  He had  always worked Behind a Desk, he claimed, and would surely be a Liability to  any Employer Engaged in such Activities. What Honesty say his Benefactors, He Only wants to Work in such a Capacity that will Benefit All.  Maybe he could start by Preparing Tax Returns for Families and Local Businesses.  Isn't this the Type of Employment he did in the past, even  Though it is not the High End Economic Clientele he is used to. Praising Their Generosity to the Skies, he says that it would be an Honor and  Privilege to perform such a Service, AND MAYBE HE COULD FIND A FEW  WAYS TO INCREASE THEIR YEARLY REFUND, OR FIND TAX CREDITS TO PROTECT THEIR SAVINGS FROM GOVERNMENT BUREAUCRATS. EVERYONE KNOWS THAT THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT GOES AFTER PEOPLE OF FAITH FIRST AND FOREMOST. After that Speech all Hesitation is gone, and He soon has more Work than He can  Handle. STEP 1 COMPLETE-  GAIN THEIR CONFIDENCE, AND PREPARE A FOUNDATION. Date-  8/1/2015. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. THE IRAN NUCLEAR TREATY-  AVOIDING REALITY.  PT 1. (*IN THIS ARTICLE I USE THE WORD "TREATY" TO DESCRIBE THE RESULTS OF THE NEGOTIATIONS.  HOWEVER, TERMS SUCH AS "DEAL" OR "AGREEMENT" COULD REPLACE "TREATY" WITH NO LOSS IN MEANING OR UNDERSTANDING. As the Debate over the Nuclear Treaty with Iran is still being Discussed in Congress, and the Media, we find that one thing Remains True: SOME POLITICIANS STILL AVOID ANY REAL DEBATE THAT MIGHT RESOLVE THE CONTROVERSY. WHY?  IT WOULD INVOLVE INSIGHT AND THE ABILITY TO THINK BEYOND SIMPLISTIC SOLUTIONS THAT WILL ADDRESS THE REALITY OF THE SITUATION, INSTEAD OF REPEATING MEANINGLESS RHETORIC THAT PLEASES YOUR SUPPORTERS. So, let us Step Back, Ignore everything that has been said, and look Beyond Bombastic One Liners to see where the TRUTH MAY LIE. First Question- WHAT IS A TREATY? A TREATY IS BASICALLY A CONTRACT BETWEEN TWO OR MORE PARTIES; THAT ARE USUALLY DIFFERENT GOVERNMENTS OR NATIONS, WHO ARE RECOGNIZED AS THE LEGITIMATE SOURCES OF AUTHORITY FOR A GIVEN GEOGRAPHICAL AREA OR POPULATION, THAT HAVE THE POWER TO CREATE AND ENFORCE ANY POLICIES, FOREIGN OR DOMESTIC. A TREATY IS JUST LIKE A SIGNED BUSINESS DEAL. THE GOALS AND PARTIES TO IT MAY BE DIFFERENT, BUT THE PRINCIPLES ARE THE SAME. What can we Safely Infer if Two or More Parties are Entering into Diplomatic Talks, with the Outcome Eventually being a SIGNED TREATY FOR ALL PARTIES? #1-  EACH PARTICIPANT IN THE NEGOTIATIONS HAS SOMETHING THE OTHER WANTS.-  No One Enters into These Negotiations Insisting that the Opposing Side Give Up Something, but will get nothing in return.  Turning it around, No Side enters such Talks with the Idea of Giving Into Certain Demands, and Anticipating No Concessions From the Opposition.  That would be Unrealistic and Foolish. #2-  WHILE THERE MAY BE MANY POINTS OF CONFLICT OR DISAGREEMENT, ALL PARTICIPANTS HAVE ONE OR TWO MAIN GOALS THEY WANT THE TREATY TO ACHIEVE.-  These are Usually So Prominent that They are Generally Apparent at the Outset of the Talks, and are in some cases THE ONLY REASON(S) THAT BROUGHT THE OPPOSING SIDES TO THE NEGOTIATION TABLE. LOOK FOR PART 2. Date-  8/3/2015. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. DOING REAL SCIENCE:  THE SEARCH FOR TRUTH.  PT 1. Sometimes you may be watching a Program Dealing with a Controversial Topic, and Hear Words or Phrases that sound PROFOUND OR INSIGHTFUL.  Their Use Could Be an attempt to Make the Speaker sound Knowledgeable and Authoritative. If you pay attention to what is being said, you will often find an Individual Speaking about a Topic, Who has a Fundamental Lack of Understanding about the the SCIENTIFIC METHOD OR PROPER RESEARCH METHODOLOGY. This is ESPECIALLY TRUE IF YOU TUNE INTO ONE OF THE CABLE TELEVISION SHOWS THAT ATTEMPTS TO LEGITIMIZE PSEUDOSCIENCE, AND ONE OF THEIR MANY SUBJECTS OR TOPICS. ( i.e. UFOS, ANCIENT ASTRONAUTS, GHOSTS, CRYPTIDS etc.) I'll be Describing a Few from Time to Time.  See if you can spot Them the Next Time Your Channel Surfing. "SCIENCE CAN'T EXPLAIN HOW THIS WAS DONE."-  Is an Often Used Phrase that seems to Indicate that the Discipline of Science is Stumped by some INCREDIBLE FIND OR DISCOVERY, SO THE PSEUDOSCIENCE BEING PUSHED ON THE SHOW PROVIDES THE REAL ANSWERS. Intellectual Discipline does not allow Science to make Uninformed or Unwarranted Conclusions, or Offer Opinions and Speculations that Lack any Basis in Reality. The SCIENTIFIC METHOD does not Mean offering Any and All Possible Solutions, AND MAINTAINING THAT THEY ARE ALL EQUALLY VALID. The Tools of Proper Scientific Study, Together with the Rules of Logic and Critical Thinking; SYSTEMATICALLY GATHERS EVIDENCE THROUGH PROPER AND SET METHODS TO AVOID CONTAMINATION, OBSERVATIONAL ERROR, AND CONFORMATION BIAS. THIS ALLOWS FOR PROPER EVALUATION AND INTERPRETATION, FREE OF PRECONCEIVED CONCLUSIONS THAT CAN STAND UP TO SCRUTINY. The Phrase; "WE MUST GO WHERE THE EVIDENCE TAKES US", IS ENTIRELY TRUE.  HOWEVER, IT DOESN'T MEAN IGNORING DATA AND HYPOTHESES THAT CAN BE REASONABLY INFERRED FROM OBSERVATION AND TESTING, IN FAVOR OF SPECULATIVE IDEAS THAT HAVE NOT A SINGLE SHRED OF EVIDENCE THAT CAN WITHSTAND EVEN THE MOST CURSORY EVALUATION. This Leaves us the Most Telling Difference BETWEEN REAL SCIENCE VS PSEUDOSCIENCE;  REAL SCIENTIFIC STUDY PROPERLY GATHERS, STUDIES AND INTERPRETS ALL AVAILABLE DATA TO FORM CONCLUSIONS THAT EXPLAIN WHAT HAS BEEN FOUND, OR HYPOTHESIZE ABOUT ALL REASONABLE POSSIBILITIES. PSEUDOSCIENCE STARTS WITH A CONCLUSION, (THE EXACT OPPOSITE OF THE SCIENTIFIC METHOD), AND TRIES TO FIND ANY EVIDENCE TO SUPPORT IT.  THIS IS USUALLY DONE: -  BY MISHANDLING OR MISIDENTIFYING AVAILABLE DATA. -  ASSERTING FACTS NOT IN EVIDENCE. -  IGNORING RELATIVE DATA. -  FAILING TO UNDERSTAND, OR LACKING KNOWLEDGE OF NATURAL LAW. -  INCORRECT REPORTING OF SPECIFIC EVENTS, EITHER BY  LACK OF KNOWLEDGE OR INSUFFICIENT RESEARCH. ... AMONG OTHER THINGS. Look for Specific Examples in Future Posts. Date-  8/9/2015. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. THE IRAN NUCLEAR TREATY-  AVOIDING REALITY.  PT 2. So now we have Two or more Governments sitting at the Negotiation Table, each One Probably Aware to a Certain Extent of Why the Others are there. Before going on with Further Analysis, it is Important to remember the Following: -  THIS IS AN ADVERSARIAL RELATIONSHIP, AND THE HOSTILITY BETWEEN THOSE INVOLVED IN NEGOTIATIONS IS GOING TO SHAPE THE MANNER IN WHICH THEY ARE CONDUCTED. Each Side can CREATE AN IMMEDIATE TONE FOR THE NEGOTIATIONS, BY SIMPLY TREATING THE OPPOSING SIDE AS: -  A PERENNIAL ENEMY WHO CAN NEVER BE TRUSTED.                                             OR -  AN OPPONENT ON THE WORLD STAGE, WHO MUST  EARN TRUST BY SHOWING GOOD FAITH AND FLEXIBILITY.  ALSO, ACKNOWLEDGING THAT THEIR MOTIVATIONS MAY BE DIFFERENT,   BUT SHOULD BE CONSIDERED VALID ENOUGH TO HAVE AN OPEN DIALOGUE.                                              OR  -   A POSSIBLE FUTURE ALLY OR FRIEND, GIVEN A CHANGE IN CIRCUMSTANCES.  ALSO, UNDERSTANDING THAT THE PERSON OR PERSONS YOU ARE NEGOTIATING WITH NOW, MAY BE THOSE WHO HOLD THE REIGNS OF POWER IN THE FUTURE. WHILE MANY WILL NAIVELY CLAIM THAT COUNTRIES LIKE IRAN  WILL NEVER BE A FRIEND OR ALLY FORGET THAT THE ART  OF DIPLOMACY IS TO DO WHAT IS IN YOUR COUNTRIES BEST  INTEREST, NOW AND IN THE FUTURE.  THIS DOESN'T MEAN  GIVING UP YOUR IDEALS, AND BECOMING WHAT YOU FEAR AND  HATE.  IT'S ADAPTING TODAYS SITUATION, TO LESSONS FROM THE  PAST, BOTH GOOD AND BAD.   Just in the 20th Century, think of the COUNTRIES WHO WERE AT ONE TIME  ALLIES OF THE U.S. WHO BECAME FOES, OR VICE- VERSA, FOES WHO LATER BECAME ALLIES. Date-  8/11/2015. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. THE SOCIOPATH-  A DANGER ALL AROUND US.  PT 29. The Preliminary Work has been done. STEP 1 COMPLETE-  GAIN THEIR CONFIDENCE, AND PREPARE A FOUNDATION. The Sociopath has Convinced the Community or Congregation that he is; -  A Victim. -  Honest and Trustworthy, sometimes because of Repentance for Past Behavior. -  In Need of Support and Kindness, often to Protect Him From Those Who Would Cause Harm and Destruction Due to Conversion or a Search for Redemption. -  Is now in ''Their Debt'', and looking to Return the "BLESSINGS" They have Bestowed Upon Him. Now you may ask, "How is it so easy to Fool Some People?  Can't these Church Members see through the the Obvious Deception, or at least check  the Stories to Assess the Facts." Yes, Ideally that would be True.  However, Remember that the SOCIOPATH KNOWS HOW TO PLAY THE GAME.  PLAYING TO THE "CROWD", AND  USING THE STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES THAT ARE PART OF THE GROUP DYNAMIC. The Keys to the Success of STEP ONE for the SOCIOPATH are; 1)  Believability-  The "TALE OF WOE" must, at least, have a "RING OF TRUTH."  Too much may prompt inquires by the Least Trusting Members of the Group. 2)  Sincerity-  For Others to Accept what They are Being Told as Truth, the TELLER MUST COME ACROSS AS ONE WHO IS RELATING FACTS THAT HAVE OCCURRED, NOT TELLING A STORY FIT FOR A MID-DAY TELEVISION SOAP OPERA. 3)  Background Information-  Keep the Details as Vague as Possible.  NAMES, DATES, TIMES etc, can be checked.  GENERALITIES are Easier to Sell and Manipulate. 4)  Patience-  Biding your Time.  Going for too Much, too Fast, may send up RED FLAGS. 5)  Be the "NICE GUY" who will Help at the Drop of a Hat. TO BE CONTINUED... Date-  8/25/2015. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. THE POLITICS OF PREJUDICE.  PT 1. If There is one thing we can Take from Recent National Political Campaigns, it is that PREJUDICE, IN ALL ITS FORMS, STILL SHOWS US WHY THE REAL STUMBLING BLOCK TO CAMPAIGN REFORM IS THE VOTER, NOT THE POLITICIAN. It is still Amazing how Supporters of a Candidate, WILL STILL USE THE SAME TIRED EXCUSES TO JUSTIFY THEIR SUPPORT FOR A PARTICULAR INDIVIDUAL OR PARTY, EVEN WHEN IGNORANT OR IRRATIONAL COMMENTS ARE MADE PUBLIC. For Example:  "(HE OR SHE) IS JUST SAYING WHAT MOST PEOPLE THINK." -  Really, and this ASSERTION IS ARRIVED AT BY....WHAT? Maybe we should just take Their Word for it. "(HE OR SHE) IS NOT SCARED TO TELL THE TRUTH.  OTHER POLITICIANS ARE AFRAID TO." -  So this Politician and Supporters are MIND READERS, and can Ascribe MOTIVATIONS TO RIVALS who do not Voice Similar  Opinions. "THEY GIVE A VOICE TO THE DISENFRANCHISED VOTER, WHO BELIEVE THEIR CONCERNS ARE BEING IGNORED." Please Give me an Example of any Important and\or Divisive Issue that does not have any Politicians or Pacs Championing One Side or the Other, Deliberately Ignoring a Specific Segment of the Population. END PT 1. Date- 8/29/2015. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. THE IRAN NUCLEAR TREATY-  AVOIDING REALITY.  PT 3. As the Vote to Approve the IRAN NUCLEAR TREATY in Congress Approaches, we are again Subjected to Meaningless Rhetoric that Completely Misses the Point, and is USED TO PROMOTE FEAR AND HATE INSTEAD OF REASON AND PRAGMATISM.  So, let us again see if we can Cut Through Bluster and Noise, and find Common Ground. First, Ignore the Text, and Toss Out Any Objections That Have Been Raised Denouncing the Agreement.  Go into an EXAMINATION OF THIS TREATY, OR ANY TREATY FOR THAT MATTER, AS A DISINTERESTED OBSERVER WHO HAS BEEN CHARGED WITH FINDING THE MOST EQUITABLE SOLUTION THAT WOULD BENEFIT ALL SIDES. #1-  Listen to ALL SIDES OF THE SUBJECT MATTER TO DETERMINE WHAT EACH SIDE VALUES MOST OF ALL, AND CONSIDER THE ELEMENTS THAT SEEM TO BE OF LITTLE CONCERN TO EACH. #2-  What Category do the Most Important Goals of Agreeing to a TREATY FALL INTO, FOR EACH PARTICIPANT? -  ECONOMIC-  IMPROVING INFRASTRUCTURE, OR IMPORT/EXPORT  OPPORTUNITIES. -  MILITARY/PROTECTION FROM OUTSIDE SOURCES. -  STABILITY-  ALLIES TO MAINTAIN GOOD RELATIONS, OR PLEDGE  OF SUPPORT. AMONG OTHER THINGS. #3-  TO MEET THE BASIC REQUIREMENTS OF WHAT EACH SIDE IS LOOKING FOR, WHAT WILL THE OPPOSITION HAVE TO AGREE TO, OR  SACRIFICE TO MAKE THIS HAPPEN? #4-  IS ONE SIDE , OR THE OTHER, PUSHING AN AGENDA THAT THE OTHER SIDE COULD NOT REASONABLY BE EXPECTED TO AGREE TO. IS ONE SIDE OFFERING JUST TOKEN CONCESSIONS, WHILE DEMANDING EXTENSIVE SACRIFICES FROM THE OPPOSITION? As I Mentioned in an Earlier Post, GOVERNMENTS DO NOT ENTER INTO THESE NEGOTIATIONS FOR NO REASON.  EACH SIDE HAS SOMETHING THE OTHER WANTS. This Leads us to the FINAL STEP-  IF THE SITTING GOVERNMENT PROPOSING THE FINISHED TREATY IS FACED BY INTERNAL OPPOSITION, THEY MUST ALSO BE HELD TO THE SAME STANDARDS.  OPPOSING A TREATY, OR ITS COMPONENTS, IS EASY TO SAY, BUT TO OFFER NO REALISTIC ALTERNATIVES IS JUST OBSTRUCTIONIST POLITICS.   Date-  9/2/2015. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. THE POLITICS OF PREJUDICE.  PT 2. The POLITICS OF PREJUDICE Works because it Allows REASON AND LOGIC TO BE DISCARDED, IN FAVOR OF INNUENDO, RUMOR AND STEREOTYPES. In Many Cases, it is a FORM OF TRUTH BY ASSOCIATION, A LOGICAL  FALLACY THAT IS SO PREVALENT IN SOCIETY TODAY, THAT EVEN  WHEN CONFRONTED WITH ITS USE AGAINST SPECIFIC INDIVIDUALS  AND GROUPS, SOME PEOPLE WILL STILL BELIEVE THAT ANY  CONCLUSIONS REACHED BY THIS IRRATIONAL MINDSET SHOULD BE CONSIDERED FACTUAL OR TRUE. We are not Talking About Profiling By Studying BEHAVIOR PATTERNS, EDUCATION, EARLY HOME LIFE AND ECONOMIC CONDITIONS etc,. that  may be able to give us an UNDERSTANDING OF A SINGLE INDIVIDUALS ACTIONS OR MOTIVATIONS, BUT THE: ATTRIBUTION OF NEGATIVE TRAITS TO AN ENTIRE RACIAL, ETHNIC,  NATIONALITY, OR EVEN GENDER GROUP BY FOCUSING ON, AND SENSATIONALIZING, THE ACTIONS OF A FEW, AND USING THESE  INCIDENTS TO DISCRIMINATE, OR DENY EQUALITY OF OPPORTUNITY AND FAIR TREATMENT, TO THOSE INDIVIDUALS WHO ARE CONSIDERED MEMBERS OF THIS PARTICULAR GROUP. Perhaps the Most Effective Use of this Fallacy, by INDIVIDUALS OR GROUPS  WITH A SPECIFIC AGENDA WHO CARE LITTLE ABOUT HOW IT IS ACHIEVED, IS TO TARGET MEMBERS OF SOCIETY WHO HARBOR PREJUDICIAL ATTITUDES, BUT CANNOT FIND A COHERENT REASON TO CONVINCE OTHERS THAT THESE BELIEFS SHOULD BE LEGISLATED INTO LAW.  IT IS THE:                                JUSTIFIABLE EXCUSE DEFENSE. We will look at this in an Upcoming Post. 9/7/2015. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. THE SOCIOPATH-  A DANGER ALL AROUND US.  PT 30. STEP 2-  REELING IN THE VICTIMS. The Stage has been set.  The SOCIOPATH has Convinced the Members of Church, and the Community, of his Sincere Desire to Join the Congregation. His need for REDEMPTION TO ATONE FOR HIS PAST SINS, has Turned Him into a New Man. With the Help of his "NEW FAMILY", the SOCIOPATH has set up Housekeeping in a New Home, and found Employment.  NOW IT IS HIS TURN TO RETURN THEIR KINDNESS.   At First it is rather Simple Tasks That are not Difficult.  If the Sociopath is Savvy, and has some Background in Monetary, Financial, Insurance, or Real Estate Transactions, it would be Relatively Easy to Find Trusting Individuals to perform such Mundane Tasks For, such as; -  Completing Tax Returns. -  Going over Insurance Needs. -  Helping to Prepare such Things as Wills or Estates. -  Evaluating the Value of Land and Other Forms of Real Estate. At First, the SOCIOPATH will do the Job Properly, or at least with no HINT OF ANY IMPROPRIETIES.  These are Minor Transactions, but by performing them ADEQUATELY AND COMPETENTLY, A LEVEL OF TRUST IS CREATED. There is not a lot of Money to be made CONDUCTING OR HANDLING SUCH TRANSACTIONS, BECAUSE THE SOCIOPATH DOES NOT HAVE ACCESS  OR CONTROL OVER THE MONEY AND ASSETS OF THE INDIVIDUAL  OR FAMILY.  IN ADDITION, THE SOCIOPATH REALIZES THAT GAINING THE  TRUST OF THE SMALLER SAVER OR INVESTOR COULD GAIN HIM ACCESS TO THE WEALTHIER MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY OR CONGREGATION. The SOCIOPATH Understands that the GREATER THE WEALTH OR ASSETS, THE MORE LIKELY THE NUMBER OF SAFEGUARDS WILL BE INCREASED. THE SCRUTINY OVER TRANSACTIONS, AND POSSIBLE RED FLAGS BEING FOUND, WILL CREATE GREATER DANGER OF DISCOVERY. However, a Close Knit Community and/or Congregation, allows the SOCIOPATH A CHANCE TO USE THE ASSUMPTION OF HONESTY, AND THE "GOODNESS" OF THE MEMBERS, TO GREAT ADVANTAGE.  SOON THE WORD OF HIS ABILITIES, AND DESIRE TO HELP ALL REGARDLESS OF WEALTH, WILL BE KNOWN TO ALL. That is what He wants.  For People to Drop Their Guard, and to Take His Word, No Questions Asked.  It is when this Occurs that the DESTRUCTION BEGINS. Date-  9/14/2015. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. WHAT PROGRESSIVES MUST LEARN. PT 12. LESSONS FROM KENTUCKY. As Kim Davis returns to Work as a County Clerk in Kentucky, still insisting that she will not Issue Marriage Licenses to Same Sex Couples, it appears her Moment in the Spotlight may be Fading.  Deputy Clerks, who are willing to do the Job They're being Paid For, are picking up the Slack.  It seems Licenses will still be Valid even without her Signature, at least for the Time Being. However, the Real Message to Take from this, is the Knowledge that Some Americans care nothing for the Constitution, and the FREEDOMS IT GUARANTEES. Kim Davis is probably a Simple Pawn who is being used by Ultra- Conservatives to Create Controversy, and Distract Voters from REAL ISSUES, SO HOPEFULLY THEY WILL FORGET THE PROGRESS THAT HAS BEEN ACHIEVED IN THE LAST FEW YEARS. Unfortunately, for them, YOU CAN IGNORE THE BODY OF THE U.S. CONSTITUTION, BUT ERASING IT IS NOT POSSIBLE. Consider This, FROM ARTICLE 6: The Senators and Representatives before mentioned, and the Members of the several State Legislatures, and all executive and judicial Officers, both of the United States and of the several States, shall be bound by Oath or Affirmation, to support this Constitution; but no religious Test shall ever be required as a Qualification to any Office or public Trust under the United States. In what has to be one of the Most Unique Pieces of HYPOCRISY IN U.S. HISTORY, WE ARE LEFT WITH THE FOLLOWING; ARTICLE 6 CLEARLY ASSERTS THIS MAXIM: THAT NO PERSON CAN BE DISQUALIFIED OR PREVENTED FROM HOLDING OFFICE BECAUSE OF THEIR RELIGIOUS BELIEFS.  A VOW TO UPHOLD THE CONSTITUTION, AND SUPPORT IT,  IS REQUIRED TO BE AN OFFICE HOLDER. KIM DAVIS CAN HATE HOMOSEXUALITY, CALL IT IMMORAL AND SO ON.... THAT CANNOT BE USED AGAINST HER, FOR IT WOULD BE A "RELIGIOUS TEST."  PERSONAL FAITH CANNOT BE USED TO BARR ANYONE FROM HOLDING OFFICE. SO WHAT HAS SHE, AND THOSE WHO THINK LIKE HER DONE?  THEY HAVE CREATED A REQUIREMENT OF THEIR OWN. THAT SHE WILL PERFORM HER DUTIES, AND UPHOLD THE DOCUMENT SHE VOWED TO SUPPORT, ONLY IF IT PASSES HER "RELIGIOUS TEST." IN OTHER WORDS, CONSTITUTIONALLY SHE CANNOT  BE REMOVED FROM OFFICE FOR HER BELIEFS, HOWEVER, SHE CLAIMS IT IS PERMISSIBLE TO IGNORE AND DISREGARD CONSTITUTIONAL FREEDOMS, IF IT VIOLATES THOSE SAME BELIEFS. Date- 9/16/2015. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN GOOD EVIDENCE, BAD EVIDENCE, AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN?  PT 1. It is a Strange World, when you Realize that Three Common Topics Covered and Discussed on TELEVISION AND RADIO; -  POLITICS. -  PSEUDOSCIENCE. -  MEDICAL AND HEALTH ISSUES. Subjects, Which on the Surface should have very little in common, ARE SATURATED WITH BOGUS AND UNTRUTHFUL CLAIMS AND CONCLUSIONS, WHICH ARE DERIVED USING THE SAME TYPES OF IRRATIONAL, ANTI- INTELLECTUAL, AND FAULTY REASONING THOUGHT PROCESSES. Unfortunately, THIS SEEMS TO BE WHAT THE MEDIA IS LOOKING FOR, IN THE HOPES OF INCREASED RATINGS.   MANY OF THOSE WHO TUNE IN ARE LEFT WITH THE IMPRESSION THAT ANY ASSERTIONS MADE DURING  THE PROGRAM ARE PROBABLY TRUE, BECAUSE THERE WAS NO ONE TO  OFFER REASONABLE ALTERNATIVE EXPLANATIONS THAT CONTRADICT THESE "TRUTHS." I Believe that the Level of Success or Popularity these "SHOWS" Enjoy, can be Understood because of the following CHARACTERISTICS FOUND AMONG SOME OF THE VIEWING AUDIENCE: -  PREJUDICIAL ATTITUDES WHICH LOOK FOR JUSTIFICATION, NO MATTER WHAT THE SOURCE. -  A SIMPLISTIC AND UNDISCIPLINED VIEW OF SCIENCE, AND THE  NATURAL WORLD. -  A FAITH OR BELIEF SYSTEM THAT IS SO TENUOUS, THAT IT MUST NOT BE QUESTIONED. -  REFUSING TO CONFRONT ANY CONCLUSIONS THAT HAVE BEEN MADE ON A PERSONAL BASIS, FOR FEAR OF WHAT IT MAY REVEAL. ...AND THE MOST TELLING OF ALL... THAT ANY OPPOSITION, NO MATTER WHAT THE SITUATION, ISSUE OR DISAGREEMENT, REPRESENTS AN EVIL CONSPIRACY,  REGARDLESS OF THE LACK OF EVIDENCE.  LOOK FOR PART 2. Date-  9/18/2015. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. DESTROYING PLANNED PARENTHOOD-  A DESPERATE ACT BY  THOSE WHO DON'T CARE?  PART 1. Why is it so difficult to Understand the Motivations that Drive some of the Decisions Made by Certain Public Officials?  Sometimes it Appears that Opinions on Particular Issues: -  ARE COMPLETELY MOTIVATED BY SELF -INTEREST. -  REFLECT IRRATIONAL PREJUDICES AND HATREDS. -  WANT TO CREATE AND ESTABLISH A RELIGIOUS OR THEOCRATIC FORM OF GOVERNMENT, BINDING ON ALL AMERICANS. THE CONTROVERSY OVER THE ATTEMPT TO ELIMINATE PLANNED PARENTHOOD IS A PERFECT EXAMPLE TO TEST THE REAL MOTIVATIONS BEHIND THOSE WHO EITHER SUPPORT THE PROGRAM, OR WISH TO END IT.  PART 1.- A PRACTICAL APPROACH. Here is a RATIONAL STEP-BY-STEP WAY TO EVALUATE PLANNED PARENTHOOD, AS IT IS ADMINISTERED BY GOVERNMENT. Examine and Analyze the Mission Statement. Why was it Created? What was the Reasoning that led to it Being Started? What Problems was it Meant to Address? Was it a Moral Decision, Practical Decision, or Both, that led to it becoming a Government Program? Administrating the Program. What are it's Goals or Objectives? Do They Mirror its Mission Statement? Are These Goals Best Served by  a Government Program? How does the Funding Accomplish  These Goals? Continuing the Program. Has it been Effective in Accomplishing ALL, SOME, OR NONE of its Objectives? Should the Budget be Increased, Decreased or the Program Eliminated Altogether?  Under what Set of Guidelines should we consider ALL OR PART OF THE PROGRAM A SUCCESS? What are the Consequences of Keeping or Eliminating all or part of the Program? THESE POINTS MUST ALSO BE CONSIDERED. -  If the GOALS AND OBJECTIVES OF THE PROGRAM  ARE CONSIDERED MORALLY "GOOD", HOW WOULD THEY  BE ACHIEVED WITHOUT THE PROGRAMS EXISTENCE? -  IS DESTROYING A PROGRAM IN ITS ENTIRETY,  THE BEST WAY TO DEAL WITH ANY PROBLEMS  IT HAS IN BEING ADMINISTERED? IN ADDITION, IF THERE ARE ACCUSATIONS BEING LEVELED AGAINST  THOSE RUNNING THE PROGRAM FOR VIOLATIONS OF CRIMINAL OR CIVIL LAW, WHY SHOULD ANY NEGATIVE  ACTION BE TAKEN UNTIL THE TRUTH OF THESE ASSERTIONS IS PROPERLY INVESTIGATED? ...TO BE CONTINUED. Date-  9/26/2015. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. THE POLITICS OF PREJUDICE.  PT 3. Perhaps the Most Effective Use of this Strategy, by INDIVIDUALS OR GROUPS  WITH A SPECIFIC AGENDA, WHO CARE LITTLE ABOUT HOW IT IS ACHIEVED, IS TO TARGET MEMBERS OF SOCIETY WHO HARBOR PREJUDICIAL ATTITUDES, BUT CANNOT FIND A COHERENT REASON TO CONVINCE OTHERS THAT THESE BELIEFS SHOULD BE LEGISLATED INTO LAW.  IT IS THE:                                JUSTIFIABLE EXCUSE DEFENSE.                                             (FROM PART 1.) It is Repeated Throughout History.  How Many Times Has A Government, Resident Population, or the Electorate Sought to Address its Problems Not Through Reason or Critical Analysis, but by Attacking the Least Influential and Mostly Powerless Members of Society.  It is an Insidious, but often Effective Way of Gaining and Holding Power. If we Have a Specific and Identifiable Political Movement that Lacks the Numbers or Credibility to Achieve its Immediate Political Goals, They May Turn to Manipulative Scare Tactics that Blame, Tarnish or Accuse a Specific Group of Being the Underlying Cause For...,Well just about anything.  Sometimes, the More Outlandish the Charges, the more likely the Acceptance by Different Parts of Society. Naturally, the Success of such a Strategy is Dependent upon Gaining and Holding on to Allies.  So what do you do if this is your POLITICAL MOVEMENT, AND WANT TO ACHIEVE AND MAINTAIN POWER? #1-  CREATE AN IMAGINARY ENEMY THROUGH DECEPTION, HALF- TRUTHS, AND THE IRRATIONAL PREJUDICES OF THOSE YOU ARE  REACHING OUT TO. You Know that the LEAST POWERFUL OR INFLUENTIAL GROUPS OFTEN LACK THE FINANCIAL ABILITY TO FIGHT A DETERMINED OPPONENT.   Along with this is a REALIZATION THAT CERTAIN SEGMENTS OF SOCIETY ALREADY HATE THESE GROUPS, BUT VERY FEW WILL ADMIT PUBLICLY THE TRUE NATURE OF THESE FEELINGS. So what do you do?  CREATE A CONTROVERSY, THAT ALLOWS THOSE WITH PREJUDICIAL ATTITUDES AN EXCUSE TO MAKE THEIR BELIEFS KNOWN TO THE WORLD, AND WILL JUSTIFY THEIR DESIRE TO SEE THESE HAPLESS GROUPS REMAINING AT THE BOTTOM RUNGS OF SOCIETY. In Turn, it will be used to convince others the necessity of keeping these groups down. LOOK FOR PART 4. 9/28/2015. Scroll down for future posts. FEATURE ARTICLES. DESTROYING PLANNED PARENTHOOD-  A DESPERATE ACT BY  THOSE WHO DON'T CARE?  PART 2. What is exactly at the Heart of this sudden Desire to Eliminate PLANNED PARENTHOOD? CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING: -  THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT. -  SAME- SEX MARRIAGE. -  RAISING THE MINIMUM WAGE. What do They all Have in Common? Yes, They are Deeply Divisive Issues that Cause a Great of Dissension Among Individual Politicians, Political Parties, and the Electorate.   In Fact, During the past few years in the U.S., You could Argue that these have been the Most Relevant Topics, when Discussing the Outcome of Recent Elections.  However, They can give us a Window into the Mindset of Certain Segments of Society, and Those who Represent Them in the Halls of Congress. THESE THREE ISSUES ARE EXAMPLES OF GROUPS OR INDIVIDUALS ATTEMPTING TO GAIN LEGAL ACCESS TO SOCIAL AND MONETARY OPPORTUNITIES, OR HEALTHCARE SAFEGUARDS, THAT OTHERS ALREADY HAVE. AFFORDABLE CARE ACT-  TO AID AMERICANS WHO ARE WITHOUT HEALTH INSURANCE DUE TO COST, BY SUBSIDIZING OR OFFERING HEALTH CARE PLANS AT RATES THAT WOULD NOT CREATE FINANCIAL HARDSHIP.  THIS WOULD BRING THEM IN LINE WITH MILLIONS OF OTHER AMERICANS WHO DO RECEIVE MEDICAL SUBSIDIES EITHER THROUGH EMPLOYMENT, DISABILITY, LOW INCOME, OR AGE. SAME- SEX MARRIAGE-  COUPLES WHO CAN NOW ENTER INTO A LEGAL CIVIL MARRIAGE, WHICH NOW GRANTS THEM EQUAL STATUS BEFORE THE LAW.  THIS ENTITLES THEM TO BE TREATED IN THE SAME MANNER AS THEIR HETEROSEXUAL COUNTERPARTS. RAISING THE MINIMUM WAGE-  A MOVEMENT TO RAISE THE MINIMUM WAGE ACROSS THE NATION, WHICH WOULD ALLEVIATE SYMPTOMS OF POVERTY BY BRINGING FULL TIME EMPLOYMENT PAY SCALES IN LINE WITH THE COST OF LIVING INDEX.  MANY UNION AND CONTRACTUAL EMPLOYEES ALREADY HAVE MANDATORY INCREASES IN PAY, SO THIS IS NOT A UNIQUE GOAL. So what do the Above Issues have in common with PLANNED PARENTHOOD? PLANNED PARENTHOOD-  IS A NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION WHOSE AFFILIATES OPERATE HEALTH CENTERS THROUGHOUT THE U.S. THEY ARE RUN, PRIMARILY, FOR THE BENEFIT OF YOUNG AMERICANS AND/OR LOW INCOME INDIVIDUALS, SO THEY CAN RECEIVE PROPER REPRODUCTIVE MEDICAL CARE. THIS INCLUDES: -  CONTRACEPTIVES, BIRTH CONTROL, AND    ABORTION SERVICES. -  PREGNANCY AND PRENATAL CARE. -  STD TESTING AND TREATMENT. -  CANCER RELATED SCREENINGS    AND DIAGNOSIS. ...AMONG OTHER PATIENT SERVICES. SO WHAT DO... -  PLANNED PARENTHOOD. -  THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT. -  SAME- SEX MARRIAGE. -  RAISING THE MINIMUM WAGE. ALL HAVE IN COMMON? THEIR EXISTENCE IS AN ATTEMPT TO REMEDY OR CREATE PROGRAMS ADDRESSING FINANCIAL, MEDICAL, AND SOCIAL  INADEQUACIES AND/OR INEQUALITIES IN THE U.S., ALLOWING ALL AMERICANS AN OPPORTUNITY TO; 1)  WORK FULL TIME, AND RECEIVE WAGES THAT TAKE THEM OUT OF POVERTY. 2)  THE ABILITY TO ATTAIN ADEQUATE MEDICAL CARE, WITHOUT BEING SUBJECT TO ECONOMIC CRIPPLING COSTS IN MEDICAL INSURANCE PREMIUMS, OR THE ABILITY TO RECEIVE AFFORDABLE AND PRIVATE REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH SERVICES THAT ARE NOT AVAILABLE ELSEWHERE IN THE COMMUNITY. 3)  A LAW RECOGNIZING THAT ALL MENTALLY COMPETENT CONSENTING ADULTS HAVE THE RIGHT TO BE LEGALLY MARRIED TO THE PERSON OF THEIR CHOICE. THE ABOVE ARE NOT EXAMPLES OF CREATING SPECIAL PRIVILEGES FOR A CHOSEN SEGMENT OF SOCIETY, BUT RECOGNIZING THAT CERTAIN BASIC SAFEGUARDS AND OPPORTUNITIES ARE SOMETHING THAT ALL AMERICANS SHOULD EXPECT, THAT WILL ALLOW EVERYONE A CHANCE TO LIVE A HAPPY AND PRODUCTIVE LIFE. Yet, Time and Time Again, the TEA PARTY ACTIVISTS OF THE REPUBLICAN PARTY, (AMONG OTHERS), HAVE TRIED TO DISMANTLE, DESTROY, OR PREVENT THE ESTABLISHMENT OF SUCH PROGRAMS, WHILE AT THE SAME TIME PUSHING FOR TAX CUTS THAT BENEFIT THE WEALTHIEST AMERICANS. THIS IS DONE, WHILE DEMANDING THAT ALL AMERICANS ACCEPT SPECIFIC RELIGIOUS GUIDELINES IN OUR LEGAL SYSTEM. IT SEEMS THEY ARE SET ON KEEPING THE UNITED STATES A COUNTRY OF THE "HAVES AND HAVE NOTS", OR THE "PRIVILEGED CLASS VS THE FACELESS MASSES." Yeah, THEIR LOOKING OUT FOR ALL OF US... Dateline- 9/29/2015. Scroll down for future posts. XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX MORE POSTS ON FEATURE ARTICLES II PAGE.