I heard on the radio a talk show host describe a situation in which a single mother with 3 children, earning $14,500 a year (which he said was about minimum wage) could amass in disposable income $34,000 per year. That would be equivalent to what a family (presumably, 2 adults and 3 children) making $60,000 could claim in disposable income.
The working mother of 3 could amass such a "fortune," by taking advantage of tax breaks and credits, getting food stamps, living in Section-8 housing, receiving a stipend for child care, and benefitting from similar grants. Now, getting Section 8 housing is problematic, for one. But assuming all goes well for her, the point is she might qualify but only if she's a single mother. The system just doesn't encourage marriage and family, too. Likewise, the system, I found (I don't know if the system is the same today), treats a woman with child in ways dissimilar to a single woman and no children. That's why, I believe, when you go to the welfare office, you see so many women carrying their offspring!
Thursday, December 30, 2010
China's Path toward Asian Hegemony
In a recent talk show airing of the Rusty Humphrey's program, Tom Rhodes substituting, Rhodes made an important point about China's policies in Asia. He contended that China's military might enables it to show the rest of Asia that it can indeed lead the nations of that continent. Its vision is to establish what I call the "Asian Mind," a style and procedure of doing things distinctive in the world, its origin dating back thousands of years. ( I wrote a ruminations piece on this a few years back.) Japan had taken on the same project, but its attempt led to WWII, Western Theater. Japan did not succeed; but I believe it gave back the cudgel to its dominant neighbor to the north.
"Government by fiat." Hooray!
I heard on the Rusty Humphrey's Show, Tom Rhodes substituting, the opinion expressed that Obama is, in some measure, governing by fiat, i.e., ignoring the will of Congress in the administration of federal departments and agencies. Rhodes claimed the government regards itself so strong as to do what it wants! Surely, this is an exaggeration.
Nevertheless, in his recent recess appointments Obama is demonstrating his commitment to sound governmental policies, developed and administered by technocrats in the public sector.
The alternative procedure of letting Congress, even the Tea Party, set priority and policy in the months ahead place the US in a situation of being cast into a well of international isolationism. Countries around the world share a common belief, ever since the banking debacle, that the US should go its way, while the rest of the world establish its own trade pacts and globalized rules and regulations: "The US goes its way; and we go ours." The US simply can't rely on un-tutored political entities to initiate strategies that overcome distrust of American leadership.
President Obama, I salute you!
Footnote: Rhodes was, I think, the former editor of the Jerusalem Post, an outstanding international newpaper; and he makes a wonderful radio talk personality, currently holding forth in Indianapolis--better than most of them!
Nevertheless, in his recent recess appointments Obama is demonstrating his commitment to sound governmental policies, developed and administered by technocrats in the public sector.
The alternative procedure of letting Congress, even the Tea Party, set priority and policy in the months ahead place the US in a situation of being cast into a well of international isolationism. Countries around the world share a common belief, ever since the banking debacle, that the US should go its way, while the rest of the world establish its own trade pacts and globalized rules and regulations: "The US goes its way; and we go ours." The US simply can't rely on un-tutored political entities to initiate strategies that overcome distrust of American leadership.
President Obama, I salute you!
Footnote: Rhodes was, I think, the former editor of the Jerusalem Post, an outstanding international newpaper; and he makes a wonderful radio talk personality, currently holding forth in Indianapolis--better than most of them!
December 30, 2010 Thursday
--The Pithy topic will include quick items as responses to what I've heard over the mass media or read in newsprint.
--I'll be creating a new blog called "Remembering-X," the first topic of which will be 'Remembering living on welfare.' I lived on welfare from 1990-1999. The reason for this additional blog is in response to my ruminations dealing with present living conditions in Washington, DC that I encountered on several recent trips there during which I tried to establish residence. I feel some of my experiences were of benefit in alerting others to its deplorable racial strife; and may have added to voices calling for the replacements of the mayor and the superintendent of schools.
--I'll be creating a new blog called "Remembering-X," the first topic of which will be 'Remembering living on welfare.' I lived on welfare from 1990-1999. The reason for this additional blog is in response to my ruminations dealing with present living conditions in Washington, DC that I encountered on several recent trips there during which I tried to establish residence. I feel some of my experiences were of benefit in alerting others to its deplorable racial strife; and may have added to voices calling for the replacements of the mayor and the superintendent of schools.
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
The Cost of Just Living
There's a cost to just about everything! There's a cost to living in Malibu, California; and if you can't afford it, you must live someplace else. Similarly, there's a cost of living in Honolulu, Hawaii; and if you can't afford it, you must live somewhere else. In general, there's a cost of living anywhere in the US; and as a citizen you're entitled to live here. Now the minimal cost of living in the States, it is assumed, any citizen ought to be able to afford. But, if you can't, you're not thrown into debtor's prison, like in England in yesteryear; you can apply for welfare (as I did in 1990, when I ran out of unemployment insurance!). Of course, if you commit a minor crime, you will be jailed and receive food and housing there for a time.
For you see, society doesn't want even to think of more crime, so it's willing that government, acting on its behalf , provide a welfare dole, believing those receiving it will live peaceably.
Note: The Clinton proviso: Those on welfare should enroll in a back-to-work program administered by the county's social services department.
For you see, society doesn't want even to think of more crime, so it's willing that government, acting on its behalf , provide a welfare dole, believing those receiving it will live peaceably.
Note: The Clinton proviso: Those on welfare should enroll in a back-to-work program administered by the county's social services department.
No--Redistribution of Wealth
To my way of thinking, the Conservatives are arguing against a straw man: relatively few progressives argue for redistribution of wealth anymore, according to which "from the rich, to the poor."
That argument is supplanted by the argument for supporting social programs: Each individual ought to pay his fair share to support social programs, as an involuntary contribution to a non-profit organization, viz., the government, so as the financial obligations of the working poor and the impoverished, regardless of fault, are managed. That is, a civilized society recognizes the need for a safety net, so that all might live within its realm of care. (Hume's concept of empathy.)
That argument is supplanted by the argument for supporting social programs: Each individual ought to pay his fair share to support social programs, as an involuntary contribution to a non-profit organization, viz., the government, so as the financial obligations of the working poor and the impoverished, regardless of fault, are managed. That is, a civilized society recognizes the need for a safety net, so that all might live within its realm of care. (Hume's concept of empathy.)
Friday, December 24, 2010
December 24, 2010 Friday
The topic of social change is started today in the Social-X blog. This series is philosophical by nature and represents a significant departure in the way philosophical activity and concepts is generally handled. Because of the primordial status of doing philosophy in the way that the Social-X series represents, I may have to revamp certain items as I learn from handling other items. Please bear with me; and try not to become confused if there need to be changes in the format and discussion in the Social Change conceptual schemata.
Anyway, for me this is an exciting beginning on the topic, Social Change.
Anyway, for me this is an exciting beginning on the topic, Social Change.
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
December 22, 2010 Wednesday
I just finished an action item in the "John's 'What's Up?'" series. I contend that the US Deficit Crisis is solved already! It's an action item in the hopes that I've given the direction for proper action! Note it's an action item, not a WHACK-O Theory!!
Now, back to my studies in Social Change in the Social-X series!
Now, back to my studies in Social Change in the Social-X series!
US Debt Crisis Solved! Means Testing
I'll be addressing two areas in this action item where there can be significant expense savings--just to get started in an deficit reduction effort: social programs and military expenditures during peacetime, i.e., when there's no major war. Certainly, more areas could be enumerated. I aver that even in these two areas cost savings per year should be enormous!
Social Programs
1. Medicare
The late Senator Ted Kennedy advocated means testing as a way to control Medicare costs. In this I believe he was following what many hospitals already use, viz., some ability to pay evaluation. A patient submits some financial statement of his net worth, including income. On that basis the hospital charges him.
Currently, Medicare operates as an insurance policy where the member pays a monthly premium. The premium is not tied to the actual costs of the member's medical care as projected. Obviously, many members can afford more toward their medical care under the system than what the premiums they pay would suggest.
2. Social Security
They say the social security system will bellly-up by 2040, This can readily be avoided by raising the limit of taxable income that's subject to FICA. Indeed, there really ought to be no limit of income that's not social security relevant. The same could be applied to income from dividends and properties, which may not always be the case now. Wallah, the system becomes solvent!
I detect that several Congressmen are already thinking along these lines. May I encourage them to do the obvious!
3. Senior and school cafeteria programs
Typically, a participant in these programs pays nothing, though there's the caveat that it would be nice if he doled out a fraction of the cost of the meal.
Participation in these food programs could be also means tested.
4. Medicaid
Now here's a program that's got it right. I know because I participate in the program, if the state I'm in has it.
If accepted into the program on the basis of need, the member signs a contract that upon his death, the government can recoup from the deceased's estate as much as the government's costs incurred, outside of Medicare coverage, for his healthcare benefits while living.
In many states, I understand, the welfare system is so structured, too.
The Military
By extension, the same line of thinking can be appplied to the military. In peacetime, the military budget should reflect the situation of peace. Specifically, the question, 'how important is a particular military project to the country's defense, as a peacetime measure?' should be a guiding principle.
The current treaty with Russia, being debated this very day, conforms to this principle. There's no reason for countless missles and nuclear armaments in Rusia or the US when no war exists, even a cold one. However, I know there's a lot of people in the US who wish we'd make Russia our enemy once more!
Another glaring phenomenon reflected in the military budget is a politician's desire for aggrandizement of military contracts to benefit his state or his activities. A Congressman may insist that there be several bases in his state, for example---though it's very unlikely there will be a military strike there, even if hell freezes over!
An afterthought: I've heard recently that Italy doesn't use means testing.
.
Social Programs
1. Medicare
The late Senator Ted Kennedy advocated means testing as a way to control Medicare costs. In this I believe he was following what many hospitals already use, viz., some ability to pay evaluation. A patient submits some financial statement of his net worth, including income. On that basis the hospital charges him.
Currently, Medicare operates as an insurance policy where the member pays a monthly premium. The premium is not tied to the actual costs of the member's medical care as projected. Obviously, many members can afford more toward their medical care under the system than what the premiums they pay would suggest.
2. Social Security
They say the social security system will bellly-up by 2040, This can readily be avoided by raising the limit of taxable income that's subject to FICA. Indeed, there really ought to be no limit of income that's not social security relevant. The same could be applied to income from dividends and properties, which may not always be the case now. Wallah, the system becomes solvent!
I detect that several Congressmen are already thinking along these lines. May I encourage them to do the obvious!
3. Senior and school cafeteria programs
Typically, a participant in these programs pays nothing, though there's the caveat that it would be nice if he doled out a fraction of the cost of the meal.
Participation in these food programs could be also means tested.
4. Medicaid
Now here's a program that's got it right. I know because I participate in the program, if the state I'm in has it.
If accepted into the program on the basis of need, the member signs a contract that upon his death, the government can recoup from the deceased's estate as much as the government's costs incurred, outside of Medicare coverage, for his healthcare benefits while living.
In many states, I understand, the welfare system is so structured, too.
The Military
By extension, the same line of thinking can be appplied to the military. In peacetime, the military budget should reflect the situation of peace. Specifically, the question, 'how important is a particular military project to the country's defense, as a peacetime measure?' should be a guiding principle.
The current treaty with Russia, being debated this very day, conforms to this principle. There's no reason for countless missles and nuclear armaments in Rusia or the US when no war exists, even a cold one. However, I know there's a lot of people in the US who wish we'd make Russia our enemy once more!
Another glaring phenomenon reflected in the military budget is a politician's desire for aggrandizement of military contracts to benefit his state or his activities. A Congressman may insist that there be several bases in his state, for example---though it's very unlikely there will be a military strike there, even if hell freezes over!
An afterthought: I've heard recently that Italy doesn't use means testing.
.
Sunday, December 12, 2010
December 12, 2010 Sunday
Completed two items in the ruminations series: 1) on the role of technocrats in a technocracy. Ever since 1972, I've been interested in the concept of a technocracy, where technocrats both administer programs and projects and at the same time are really doing research that adds to some scientific knowledge base. In education the publication known as the ERIC Clearinghouse does yeoman service in permitting the sharing of problems and solutions persons in administrative positions can draw upon and learn from. I did some coursework at the University of Chicago, and they coined the term "action research" to this endeavor--occurring in industry, government and education.
2) 3 Purposes or functions of a healthcare system. These need to be separated out, especially when discussing such criticisms made against a healthcare provider as "I couldn't see my doctor soon enough," or "I have a tumor; but they say it will be a year before they're going to operate!"
2) 3 Purposes or functions of a healthcare system. These need to be separated out, especially when discussing such criticisms made against a healthcare provider as "I couldn't see my doctor soon enough," or "I have a tumor; but they say it will be a year before they're going to operate!"
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Tea Party, only the beginning of a citizen revolt
The Tea Party phenomenon simply heralds a bitter citizen revolt in the offing. Wait till the citizenry must sacrifice their hard earned money to pay off the government's debt incurred by companies fraudulently ripping off homebuyers. Significantly, the CEOs of these companies in most cases have come off scot-free: no fines, no jail time! Just business as usual.
Citizen complaint: "Why should I make sacrifice to rectify a financial situation that business created?"
Citizen complaint: "Why should I make sacrifice to rectify a financial situation that business created?"
December 8, 2010 Wednesday
Here is a list of my blogs:
John's "What's Up?" http://john-oastler.blogspot.com/
ruminations http://oastlero.blogspot.com/
Social-X http://renoastler.blogspot.com/
Studiies in Interplay http:://oastlerp.blogspot.com/
I'm trying to develop a new topic in the "What's Up?" series named "Pithy" to deal with short, very short thoughts that come to mind.
I have been moving from one residence to another in El Paso, so I'm a bit behind. Recent items in the "What's Up?" series are two, maybe three WHACK-O Theories and an item in the ruminations series on CEOs' decrying capitalism.
John's "What's Up?" http://john-oastler.blogspot.com/
ruminations http://oastlero.blogspot.com/
Social-X http://renoastler.blogspot.com/
Studiies in Interplay http:://oastlerp.blogspot.com/
I'm trying to develop a new topic in the "What's Up?" series named "Pithy" to deal with short, very short thoughts that come to mind.
I have been moving from one residence to another in El Paso, so I'm a bit behind. Recent items in the "What's Up?" series are two, maybe three WHACK-O Theories and an item in the ruminations series on CEOs' decrying capitalism.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Theory IV: Mentally Communicating
Another WHACK-O Theory...are you ready for this?
When I was in Russia some years ago I heard an extraordinary theory or tale about mentally communicating, even 'dialing' the number of the person you want to call--dial in your mind only, that is.
After World War II, I understand the Russians took German physiologists and psychiatrists back to Russia, while the Americans took physicists back to the US. It is well known that the German psychiatrists and physiologists were experimenting on the brain to discover its properties prior and during the War.
In Russia, the German scientists were enjoined with Russian psychiatrists, who also were doing significant brain work. Out of that the joint effort was developed the function of communcating simply through brain neural activity--so the theory goes. I presume some altering of brain states would be introduced from some inanimate conveyance inserted into the brain.
Well, I didn't take much stock of that idea until recently, when I saw on TV that a person without the ability to use his limbs could nonetheless communicate with a computer program such that screen images were altered. That being just as far out as what this theory of telepathic communications, I heard while in Russia, purports.
The world's a strange place, isn't it?
When I was in Russia some years ago I heard an extraordinary theory or tale about mentally communicating, even 'dialing' the number of the person you want to call--dial in your mind only, that is.
After World War II, I understand the Russians took German physiologists and psychiatrists back to Russia, while the Americans took physicists back to the US. It is well known that the German psychiatrists and physiologists were experimenting on the brain to discover its properties prior and during the War.
In Russia, the German scientists were enjoined with Russian psychiatrists, who also were doing significant brain work. Out of that the joint effort was developed the function of communcating simply through brain neural activity--so the theory goes. I presume some altering of brain states would be introduced from some inanimate conveyance inserted into the brain.
Well, I didn't take much stock of that idea until recently, when I saw on TV that a person without the ability to use his limbs could nonetheless communicate with a computer program such that screen images were altered. That being just as far out as what this theory of telepathic communications, I heard while in Russia, purports.
The world's a strange place, isn't it?
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Theory III: A True American Shrine--Sedonna, Arizona
Please remember that a WHACK-O Theory is just that!
Well, this is about the magnetic power of crystals. I was introduced to New Age Philosophy and the book A Course on Miracles in the mid-80's. Some people who were devotees told me about the healing power of crystals and their magnetic energies. They urged me to go to Sedonna to experience the properties of magnetic energy for myself; and advised me to stay at the motel on the plateau, where the airport is. The experiences I had when I went to Sedonna and stayed at that very motel these devotees cited have lasted lo these many years since! I made several trips there; and discovered that private planes carrying movie stars land nearly daily to come into contact with the said energies of the area--actually in four different locations.
Then, in 1989, thereabouts, I became mentally drained and found it hard to concentrate. I felt exhaused; and attributed it to computer burn-out. I turned to the crystals, keeping one in my bed where I lay spawled out for hours on end! I went to doctors, complaining of a lack to stay focused; though I was able to stare at the crystal in a relaxed state. By 1995, I no longer had the focusing problem. It simply disappeared. I got rid of the crystal; and I've not had a crystal since.
Is there anything to the crystal theory of energy potency--I want my crystal back!
Well, this is about the magnetic power of crystals. I was introduced to New Age Philosophy and the book A Course on Miracles in the mid-80's. Some people who were devotees told me about the healing power of crystals and their magnetic energies. They urged me to go to Sedonna to experience the properties of magnetic energy for myself; and advised me to stay at the motel on the plateau, where the airport is. The experiences I had when I went to Sedonna and stayed at that very motel these devotees cited have lasted lo these many years since! I made several trips there; and discovered that private planes carrying movie stars land nearly daily to come into contact with the said energies of the area--actually in four different locations.
Then, in 1989, thereabouts, I became mentally drained and found it hard to concentrate. I felt exhaused; and attributed it to computer burn-out. I turned to the crystals, keeping one in my bed where I lay spawled out for hours on end! I went to doctors, complaining of a lack to stay focused; though I was able to stare at the crystal in a relaxed state. By 1995, I no longer had the focusing problem. It simply disappeared. I got rid of the crystal; and I've not had a crystal since.
Is there anything to the crystal theory of energy potency--I want my crystal back!
Thursday, December 2, 2010
December 2, 2010 Thursday
Having completed a ruminations item, I'm beginning a Social Change Study in the Social-X series.
As a social phenomenon, change represents disturbance in the interactions among people in unpredictable ways. Importantly, change in a cultural setting divides sharply those "in the know" of change from those following the rules and protocols of how things were done in the past. It is chaos; it is social upheaval; it can lead to a cultural war between those threatening tradition and those being threatened by the change.
Typically, those of the New Way and those of traditional ways attempt to cope by simply living side-by-side; but society itself must integrate the change or the subgroups will separate into independent cultures..
I might expound more fully on the meaning of social change in a society as an item itself in the Study near the end. Suffice it to point out that in America, the sharp dicotomy between the political Progressive and the Conservative is just such a breach brought about by Social Change.
As a social phenomenon, change represents disturbance in the interactions among people in unpredictable ways. Importantly, change in a cultural setting divides sharply those "in the know" of change from those following the rules and protocols of how things were done in the past. It is chaos; it is social upheaval; it can lead to a cultural war between those threatening tradition and those being threatened by the change.
Typically, those of the New Way and those of traditional ways attempt to cope by simply living side-by-side; but society itself must integrate the change or the subgroups will separate into independent cultures..
I might expound more fully on the meaning of social change in a society as an item itself in the Study near the end. Suffice it to point out that in America, the sharp dicotomy between the political Progressive and the Conservative is just such a breach brought about by Social Change.
Monday, November 22, 2010
November 22, 2010 Monday
I've completed the Studies in Interplay item on Mentors and Teachers: Their Educative Roles. Therein, I've stated, having worked with gangs over the years, the last 3 or 4 years ago in Raleigh, North Carolina, a gang of 50 members, that intitutional mentorship can go a long way to ending the social climate that fosters gangs.
I'm about to write in the "Ruminations" blog about my reflections of having recently lived in Reno, Nevada for nearly 8 months--"My Reflections on Nevada."
Then on to Social Change!
I'm about to write in the "Ruminations" blog about my reflections of having recently lived in Reno, Nevada for nearly 8 months--"My Reflections on Nevada."
Then on to Social Change!
Thursday, November 18, 2010
November 18, 2010 Thursday
Because winter is fast approaching, I decided to head for warmer, though not warm, El Paso, Texas. I've been here many times before since being retired; and enjoy the town. At the downtown Senior Center, the staff even speaks English on my behalf--everybody else is Latino! The food is above average for the federally funded lunch program. The Salvation Army center maintains a dinner program all week long, for which I'm thankful. My accommodations are terrific, though I'll probably have to go into cheaper housing at some point.
I mention these descriptive points about El Paso, but the most outstanding I've kept to a separate paragraph--namely, the University of Texas at El Paso, UTEP. For seniors the unversity runs an outstanding Lifelong Learning Center; and the philosophy department is terrific, also. I intend to get ideas for the blogs from attending events at UTEP come January!
Current progress: I'm in the midst of writing a very important--to my mind--piece on the interplay between mentiorship and teaching that will be finished certainly by the end of the month. Enjoy!
I mention these descriptive points about El Paso, but the most outstanding I've kept to a separate paragraph--namely, the University of Texas at El Paso, UTEP. For seniors the unversity runs an outstanding Lifelong Learning Center; and the philosophy department is terrific, also. I intend to get ideas for the blogs from attending events at UTEP come January!
Current progress: I'm in the midst of writing a very important--to my mind--piece on the interplay between mentiorship and teaching that will be finished certainly by the end of the month. Enjoy!
Sunday, September 19, 2010
September 19, 2010 Sunday
I moved back to Omaha, Nebraska! Tried--very tentatively--Washington, DC once again before making the decision for Omaha living; but there's just too much racial tension for me to be happy in DC. Those gangs!!
My intention is to start once again in the Interplay series an item on Mentor to Teacher dynamics, with a spattering of items in the ruminations series!!
ONWARD! (Incidentally, I moved back to the same residence I had the past two times I've been in Omaha the past two years.)
My intention is to start once again in the Interplay series an item on Mentor to Teacher dynamics, with a spattering of items in the ruminations series!!
ONWARD! (Incidentally, I moved back to the same residence I had the past two times I've been in Omaha the past two years.)
Friday, August 27, 2010
August 27, 2010 Friday
--Am planning to return to Washington, DC. If I do go, it will be soon. I'll just have to get used to whatever harassment I come up against! I really like that town.
Reno is great if you gamble; and I don't. But the thing that got to me the most is that there's so many old people in Reno. I imagined I saw an undertaker's hearse at every corner! And the TV is littered here with commercials about handling old age ailments. So, if I leave, I doubt if I'll be back--at least in this lifetime. (If I can't stay in DC, I'll probably head for Omaha, where things are cheaper, anyway.)
--Working: on right now: in the Studies in Interplay series--Teacher and Mentor. It's coming along.
Reno is great if you gamble; and I don't. But the thing that got to me the most is that there's so many old people in Reno. I imagined I saw an undertaker's hearse at every corner! And the TV is littered here with commercials about handling old age ailments. So, if I leave, I doubt if I'll be back--at least in this lifetime. (If I can't stay in DC, I'll probably head for Omaha, where things are cheaper, anyway.)
--Working: on right now: in the Studies in Interplay series--Teacher and Mentor. It's coming along.
Sunday, August 15, 2010
August 15, 2010 Sunday
completed in the ruminations blog: "de facto Segregation: a fact of human existence." People like to be around others that are like them. Integrating people from various backgrounds has limited success, such that the American vision of persons paying no attention to each others' habits and customs and physical characteristics--the melting pot concept--has limited appeal to the citizenry, to any citizenry.
in the Studies in Interplay: Mentors and Teachers. I wrote last year a ruminations item on the importance of the mentor concept in education. The research item will go into greater depth. The point is, education needs purpose and direction that the mentor can provide, but a teacher can't; and I will attempt to argue this position in some detail. I need to find a library I can use to do the research: will try the University of Nevada-Reno library, if I can use it. I'm following up on John Dewey's philosophy of education, having been trained by his most illustrous student when I attended NYU, Professor Sidney Hook.
still in the offing in the Social-X series: Social Change items.
in the Studies in Interplay: Mentors and Teachers. I wrote last year a ruminations item on the importance of the mentor concept in education. The research item will go into greater depth. The point is, education needs purpose and direction that the mentor can provide, but a teacher can't; and I will attempt to argue this position in some detail. I need to find a library I can use to do the research: will try the University of Nevada-Reno library, if I can use it. I'm following up on John Dewey's philosophy of education, having been trained by his most illustrous student when I attended NYU, Professor Sidney Hook.
still in the offing in the Social-X series: Social Change items.
Thursday, August 5, 2010
August 05, 2010 Thursday
Completed in the ruminations blog: "With the Cross of Jesus, Marching as Before!" It's a terrible thing when religious persons of one persuasion are so convinced their religious tradition embodies the Truth and any other religious tradition is False, such that persons of other traditions must be converted or risk serious repercussions upon them, because of their lingering faith! (We see it as the United States attempts to impose its sense of morality upon the Chinese and upon the entire Islamic world--in a Spirit I think is that of the Medieval Crusades.)
Studies in Interplay: writing up the dynamic relations I've noted between the Turkish government and the Turkish military over many centuries. Of course, I can only write my impressions of this interplay, which may indeed be fanciful. I thought of making a WHACK-O theory entry of this interplay as I envision it, but there are structural relationships I think apply; and so I retain the item as research even if it be research into the fanciful and conjectural!
Studies in Interplay: writing up the dynamic relations I've noted between the Turkish government and the Turkish military over many centuries. Of course, I can only write my impressions of this interplay, which may indeed be fanciful. I thought of making a WHACK-O theory entry of this interplay as I envision it, but there are structural relationships I think apply; and so I retain the item as research even if it be research into the fanciful and conjectural!
Friday, July 9, 2010
Theory II: The Pleasant-Image Leader
(Please keep in mind: there's not a grain of truth to any WHACK-O Theory!)
Centuries ago, a leader was to look fearsome, engendering fear and awe in the subject. Then, the Chinese developed the wise-man leader, a sort-of Buddha who acts. He had to be old, even senile-looking. This leader image was followed by the warrior-king, a stately individual, inspiring worship, as if annointed by God Himself. Think of the Egyptian Pharohs.
In modern times, the leader was conceived of as a manipulator, a Jimmy Cagney type, who spoke gruffly. He inspired confidence that he knew what he was doing. You could trust him, if he were on your side. This type dominated Congressional halls for many years in the early 20th Century .
But, corporate America changed its image of the leader, or CEO. He became debonaire and needed the last name that should be totally innocuous, such as Smith or Jones. I think of Senator Edwards, as the embodiment of this look. Indeed, he could appear in any man's magazine as a model, e.g., GQ. And there's plenty of Congressmen who fit the image and have the personality that goes with it today.
Now, with women's lib, you're seeing women, indeed pleasant-to-look upon, in the corporate ranks, rising to become presidents of companies, even. Some of these are moving on to politics, seeking the rank of Congressional senators. It is likely that more and more women will become politicians and corporate executives, because they are really pleasant to look upon.
What's next? I predict the present trend toward embracing persons with pleasant personalities and good looks to rise as leaders will continue. I predict that women in the field of leadership both in industry and politics will take hold even will dominate. I predict that these female leaders will become younger and younger in age, since it is more pleasant to gaze upon youthful, say, twenty-year old girls, than women in their sixties, who have undergone several operations to make them look younger.
If it comes to a point where most leaders in corporate America and political circles are younger than 30, I think you'll see greater reliance on older persons behind the scenes to manipulate them--for our good, of course. Personally, I'd like to see the day spoken of in the Bible, when "a children shall lead them!"
Centuries ago, a leader was to look fearsome, engendering fear and awe in the subject. Then, the Chinese developed the wise-man leader, a sort-of Buddha who acts. He had to be old, even senile-looking. This leader image was followed by the warrior-king, a stately individual, inspiring worship, as if annointed by God Himself. Think of the Egyptian Pharohs.
In modern times, the leader was conceived of as a manipulator, a Jimmy Cagney type, who spoke gruffly. He inspired confidence that he knew what he was doing. You could trust him, if he were on your side. This type dominated Congressional halls for many years in the early 20th Century .
But, corporate America changed its image of the leader, or CEO. He became debonaire and needed the last name that should be totally innocuous, such as Smith or Jones. I think of Senator Edwards, as the embodiment of this look. Indeed, he could appear in any man's magazine as a model, e.g., GQ. And there's plenty of Congressmen who fit the image and have the personality that goes with it today.
Now, with women's lib, you're seeing women, indeed pleasant-to-look upon, in the corporate ranks, rising to become presidents of companies, even. Some of these are moving on to politics, seeking the rank of Congressional senators. It is likely that more and more women will become politicians and corporate executives, because they are really pleasant to look upon.
What's next? I predict the present trend toward embracing persons with pleasant personalities and good looks to rise as leaders will continue. I predict that women in the field of leadership both in industry and politics will take hold even will dominate. I predict that these female leaders will become younger and younger in age, since it is more pleasant to gaze upon youthful, say, twenty-year old girls, than women in their sixties, who have undergone several operations to make them look younger.
If it comes to a point where most leaders in corporate America and political circles are younger than 30, I think you'll see greater reliance on older persons behind the scenes to manipulate them--for our good, of course. Personally, I'd like to see the day spoken of in the Bible, when "a children shall lead them!"
Saturday, June 26, 2010
June 26, 2010 Saturday
Working on:
--Ruminations: Up-to-date!
--Social X: completed Social Love items; next: Social Change
--Studies in Interplay: writing draft of Turkey Military and Government. I think there's exciting material here.
As I've gone along, I do recognize similiarities--peculiarities--in thinking between Jon Sobieski, who, tradition has it on my mother's side of the family, is said to be my great-great-etc grandfather and me! Sobieski stopped the advance of the Ottoman Empire into Europe, viz., Austria, simply because that's what he wanted to do, without thinking of any material reward from the Austrians; and I frequently have done things in my lifetime simply because I thought it's the right thing to do, without weighing the personal consequences. That is an unusual thought pattern which may have continued through the Centuries--since the 17th Century--in my mother's lineage.
--Ruminations: Up-to-date!
--Social X: completed Social Love items; next: Social Change
--Studies in Interplay: writing draft of Turkey Military and Government. I think there's exciting material here.
As I've gone along, I do recognize similiarities--peculiarities--in thinking between Jon Sobieski, who, tradition has it on my mother's side of the family, is said to be my great-great-etc grandfather and me! Sobieski stopped the advance of the Ottoman Empire into Europe, viz., Austria, simply because that's what he wanted to do, without thinking of any material reward from the Austrians; and I frequently have done things in my lifetime simply because I thought it's the right thing to do, without weighing the personal consequences. That is an unusual thought pattern which may have continued through the Centuries--since the 17th Century--in my mother's lineage.
Friday, June 11, 2010
Theory I: Obama's Modus Operandi
I am inclined to think that President Obama likes to present his point of view amid contrived or timely events as a sort of "object lesson" you might find in a Baptist Church Sunday School class.
Here's a set of instances that I apply this absurdity:
1. Healthcare deliberations occurred just when the insurance companies raised their rates dramatically, in order to show that "see what you're in for in the years to come? You need to reform healthcare!"
2. Immigration reform. Obama knows he can't get any legislation passed through Congress on this topic. But he has a friend in his administration who was governor of Arizona; and he knows Federal law pertaining to immigration. So, the present governor of Arizona presses for immigration reform which mimics Federal law with the addition that the state and local police will carry out the Fed law! It's nothing other than a test case or a research study pertaining to how the Federal law should be carried out.
3. Afghanistan. The government of Afghanistan is so far content to keep the status quo, let things ride, as it were. Obama can't get the government to commit itself to anything other but permitting US troops and a modest number of Afghans to continue to wage war. But just yesterday, we are told, the "surge" is to commence. Further, the Afghans are informed of some geologist study that the country could become very weathy some day, because of its rich mineral resources, though in remote areas of the country. So, the administration's object lesson is, "you stay with us, and you'll be rich someday." Note the same lesson has been part of the instruction manuel for the Haitian government, too, since it is reportedly rich in natural gas reserves.
Yet as long as the American military is destroying the Afghan cash crop, which is in such demand world-wide, I think this object lesson will miss the mark.
4. Israel. Obama can't budge the Israeli government to deal equally with the Palestinians, i.e., enable a two-state solution. But there's Turkey, a friend of the US over the years. Suddenly, Turkey breaks Israel's blockade that hems in Gaza; and Obama says, "See, there's a need for a change in Israeli policy towards the Palestinians! Israel can't always be successful!"
However, to placate the devotees of Israel, Obama moves on greater sanctions against Iran, when everybody knows sanctions can't be successful as long as Iran is chumy friends with Russia and China!
5. Oil policy. Obama wants movement towards alternative sources of energy. Suddenly, BP a firm supporter of Obama's campaign according to Glenn Beck, has a disaster situation in the Gulf. I'm not saying that the disaster was deliberate but it's timely. Now, Obama argues, we can't put into operation other oil rigs into operation in the Gulf until there's resolution as to the nature of this spill. Moreover, he urges (because of the spill) Congress and the country move towards other sources of energy--the object lesson, again. Meanwhile, the government lets BP take the lead in handling the disaster; and government apparently provides small resources to covering the pipe though taking a lead in the clean-up; and making sure there's sufficient BP amends.
Incidentally, Russia has been doing deep oil drilling extensively; and I wonder if they've been called in as consultants.
6. Banks and monetary policy. Here, the "object lesson" was immediate and shocking. As a result, the government has gained control of the banks in the country. This may indeed be wise policy, for the Chinese and the Russians and the Japanese are capable of moving vast amounts of money around the globe to gain influence among nations in need, e.g., some African country in need of plants and machinery for
a hydroelectric power network. What you need in such an envisioned case is plenty of money to finance it!
6.
Here's a set of instances that I apply this absurdity:
1. Healthcare deliberations occurred just when the insurance companies raised their rates dramatically, in order to show that "see what you're in for in the years to come? You need to reform healthcare!"
2. Immigration reform. Obama knows he can't get any legislation passed through Congress on this topic. But he has a friend in his administration who was governor of Arizona; and he knows Federal law pertaining to immigration. So, the present governor of Arizona presses for immigration reform which mimics Federal law with the addition that the state and local police will carry out the Fed law! It's nothing other than a test case or a research study pertaining to how the Federal law should be carried out.
3. Afghanistan. The government of Afghanistan is so far content to keep the status quo, let things ride, as it were. Obama can't get the government to commit itself to anything other but permitting US troops and a modest number of Afghans to continue to wage war. But just yesterday, we are told, the "surge" is to commence. Further, the Afghans are informed of some geologist study that the country could become very weathy some day, because of its rich mineral resources, though in remote areas of the country. So, the administration's object lesson is, "you stay with us, and you'll be rich someday." Note the same lesson has been part of the instruction manuel for the Haitian government, too, since it is reportedly rich in natural gas reserves.
Yet as long as the American military is destroying the Afghan cash crop, which is in such demand world-wide, I think this object lesson will miss the mark.
4. Israel. Obama can't budge the Israeli government to deal equally with the Palestinians, i.e., enable a two-state solution. But there's Turkey, a friend of the US over the years. Suddenly, Turkey breaks Israel's blockade that hems in Gaza; and Obama says, "See, there's a need for a change in Israeli policy towards the Palestinians! Israel can't always be successful!"
However, to placate the devotees of Israel, Obama moves on greater sanctions against Iran, when everybody knows sanctions can't be successful as long as Iran is chumy friends with Russia and China!
5. Oil policy. Obama wants movement towards alternative sources of energy. Suddenly, BP a firm supporter of Obama's campaign according to Glenn Beck, has a disaster situation in the Gulf. I'm not saying that the disaster was deliberate but it's timely. Now, Obama argues, we can't put into operation other oil rigs into operation in the Gulf until there's resolution as to the nature of this spill. Moreover, he urges (because of the spill) Congress and the country move towards other sources of energy--the object lesson, again. Meanwhile, the government lets BP take the lead in handling the disaster; and government apparently provides small resources to covering the pipe though taking a lead in the clean-up; and making sure there's sufficient BP amends.
Incidentally, Russia has been doing deep oil drilling extensively; and I wonder if they've been called in as consultants.
6. Banks and monetary policy. Here, the "object lesson" was immediate and shocking. As a result, the government has gained control of the banks in the country. This may indeed be wise policy, for the Chinese and the Russians and the Japanese are capable of moving vast amounts of money around the globe to gain influence among nations in need, e.g., some African country in need of plants and machinery for
a hydroelectric power network. What you need in such an envisioned case is plenty of money to finance it!
6.
WHACK-O Theory Format
In this series, I'll be presenting ideas and theories I've "believed" based on nothing other than a gut feeling, an intuition. All of us have feelings of this nature about something for which there's little or no evidence, but we want to believe or are "driven" to accept nonetheless. Who knows, maybe there's something to whack-o theorizing, if nothing other than it shows we humans aren't always rational nor analytical. We like to fantasize, too!
Each item will be of this nature, i.e., WHACK-O!
Each item will be of this nature, i.e., WHACK-O!
June 11, 2010 Friday
Working on:
--Social-X, the topic Social Love. Have completed the research for the Midlife Crisis item and will be writing.
--Ruminations: Will be entering an item "Insincerity, the glue in human relationships." I've been listening to Dr. Laura's program at night here in Reno; and she prompted my thinking on this topic, which was a favorite of the Existentialists (who argued that social living requires living a lie, putting up a pretense).
--Studies in Interplay: Have completed the research for the first item in this series, viz., the relation between the military and the government in Turkey. Ready to start writing!
--What's up? Will be starting a new series in this blog entitled WHACK-O Theory. In it I'll be presenting ideas or theories I've intuitively come upon, i.e., based on nothing other than my gut feeling. I got the idea for the series from one of the talk shows, but I think the most outstanding venue for whack-o thinking is the all night show that discusses alien landings on earth and sightings of ghosts and spirits! Oh, well, it should be fun joining the ranks of the kooks!
I've stepped up blog productivity here in Reno, largely because there's nothing to do here. I can't afford to gamble even if I understood what's it all about. However, I do enjoy the scenery; and I reguarly attend the great senior center in downtown Reno. I think it's the best senior center I've ever seen--and I've been to a lot!
--Social-X, the topic Social Love. Have completed the research for the Midlife Crisis item and will be writing.
--Ruminations: Will be entering an item "Insincerity, the glue in human relationships." I've been listening to Dr. Laura's program at night here in Reno; and she prompted my thinking on this topic, which was a favorite of the Existentialists (who argued that social living requires living a lie, putting up a pretense).
--Studies in Interplay: Have completed the research for the first item in this series, viz., the relation between the military and the government in Turkey. Ready to start writing!
--What's up? Will be starting a new series in this blog entitled WHACK-O Theory. In it I'll be presenting ideas or theories I've intuitively come upon, i.e., based on nothing other than my gut feeling. I got the idea for the series from one of the talk shows, but I think the most outstanding venue for whack-o thinking is the all night show that discusses alien landings on earth and sightings of ghosts and spirits! Oh, well, it should be fun joining the ranks of the kooks!
I've stepped up blog productivity here in Reno, largely because there's nothing to do here. I can't afford to gamble even if I understood what's it all about. However, I do enjoy the scenery; and I reguarly attend the great senior center in downtown Reno. I think it's the best senior center I've ever seen--and I've been to a lot!
Monday, May 24, 2010
May 24, 2010 Monday
Working on:
--Social-X: Social Love: last item in the list (probably) will concern the Mid-Life Crisis love affair!
Then, I intend to be examining the concept of Social Change, as the Social-X series continues.
--Ruminations series: I'll be cleaning up grammar and word processing glitches in some recent items. Sorry about that.
The purpose of any item in this series is to provide the reader (assuming there are some!) with an idea or point of view for his consideration--let him run with it and make it his own if he wants! ENJOY!
--Studies In. I am intending to start a new blog devoted to examining practices and dynamic interplay of particular perspectives and gestalts. First one on the agenda is about the relationship between the Turkish government and the Turkish military.
--Social-X: Social Love: last item in the list (probably) will concern the Mid-Life Crisis love affair!
Then, I intend to be examining the concept of Social Change, as the Social-X series continues.
--Ruminations series: I'll be cleaning up grammar and word processing glitches in some recent items. Sorry about that.
The purpose of any item in this series is to provide the reader (assuming there are some!) with an idea or point of view for his consideration--let him run with it and make it his own if he wants! ENJOY!
--Studies In. I am intending to start a new blog devoted to examining practices and dynamic interplay of particular perspectives and gestalts. First one on the agenda is about the relationship between the Turkish government and the Turkish military.
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Returning Vets Have Need for Convalescent/Nursing Facility in North NV
I reguarly go to the Senior Center in downtown Reno, Nevada. Last Friday was local candidates day. I talked with Ms. Xiomara Rodriguez who's running for State Assembly. You'd think she'd be all about her campaign, but she said there's a desparate need in our area for returning vets in psychological distress or physical ill-health to live for a time in a "half-way house," where their needs could be attended to and where they could adjust to their handicapped condition forced upon them by either the Iraq or the Afghanistan war. She displayed a passion for their plight, which to her signalled finding a place where they could be attended to and cared for by professionals. I said, that though she had not promoted her own campaign to me, I would vote for her (once I'm registered here in Nevada!), because anyone with that degree of dedication to the public welfare, especially to the plight of returning veterans, should be in public service!
That evening at home, I thought about her stated goal of establishing a convalescent facility for vets here in northern Nevada. I am aware that these wars have led to much pain and suffering for returning soldiers; and that due to modern advances in medicine many lives that would have been lost to combat are now capable of being saved and rehabilitated.
But I'm also aware that this is a difficult time to ask for more federal funding for Nevada. One thing came to mind: the work of the Mormon Church in the back woods areas of Brazil over the years and the work of the Barnetts, father and son clergymen for the Assembly of God Church, in downtown LA. In each case they got local communities together to build, i.e., physically construct, edifices that served an immediate local social need. It's the same idea as the Habitat building program espoused prominently by former President Carter.
In the case the Barnetts, a defunct hospital's buildings and grounds were transformed by the work of volunteers who received only food, clothing and lodging at the buildings they were renovating into a residence to take the homeless off the streets of the downtown LA area and give them hope for a bright future they would be creating for themselves (with the help of the International Dream Church staff).
So, maybe, a way can be found for Ms. Rodriguez et. al with assistance from the US military to take the lead in galvanizing northern Nevadans to bring about the dream of a convalescent/nursing facility that would house temporarily hundreds and hundreds of returning US veterans until they're given the means to adjust to their present condition, knowing that they are currently in real distress and pain; and in dire need of learning about hope for a happy life for them.
That evening at home, I thought about her stated goal of establishing a convalescent facility for vets here in northern Nevada. I am aware that these wars have led to much pain and suffering for returning soldiers; and that due to modern advances in medicine many lives that would have been lost to combat are now capable of being saved and rehabilitated.
But I'm also aware that this is a difficult time to ask for more federal funding for Nevada. One thing came to mind: the work of the Mormon Church in the back woods areas of Brazil over the years and the work of the Barnetts, father and son clergymen for the Assembly of God Church, in downtown LA. In each case they got local communities together to build, i.e., physically construct, edifices that served an immediate local social need. It's the same idea as the Habitat building program espoused prominently by former President Carter.
In the case the Barnetts, a defunct hospital's buildings and grounds were transformed by the work of volunteers who received only food, clothing and lodging at the buildings they were renovating into a residence to take the homeless off the streets of the downtown LA area and give them hope for a bright future they would be creating for themselves (with the help of the International Dream Church staff).
So, maybe, a way can be found for Ms. Rodriguez et. al with assistance from the US military to take the lead in galvanizing northern Nevadans to bring about the dream of a convalescent/nursing facility that would house temporarily hundreds and hundreds of returning US veterans until they're given the means to adjust to their present condition, knowing that they are currently in real distress and pain; and in dire need of learning about hope for a happy life for them.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
April 27, 2010 Tuesday
working on: Social Love in Old Age in the Social-X series: the rise of the field of gerontology to manage the impact of older adults upon society through love
upcoming in the ruminations series:
1. US role of leadership today: is the US up to it?
2. Senatorial seniority
3. Research into G20's important role today
upcoming in the ruminations series:
1. US role of leadership today: is the US up to it?
2. Senatorial seniority
3. Research into G20's important role today
Thursday, April 15, 2010
April 15, 2010 Thursday
--working on the ruminations blog: completed the current items on the US Military today in the world; and about to complete the current items on the healthcare issue with posting the item: The US Could Become a Christian Nation! The point to this last item on healthcare is that there are certain Chrisitan precepts to govern our conduct that can be a part of our very being as United States Citizens.
--will turn again to the items in the Social Love series in the Social-X blog to discuss SL in old age persons and SL during one's mid-life crisis.
--would post an item on Iran, because I know the situation, but I agree essentially with the Chinese position about Iranian nuclear aims; and defer to them.
--will turn again to the items in the Social Love series in the Social-X blog to discuss SL in old age persons and SL during one's mid-life crisis.
--would post an item on Iran, because I know the situation, but I agree essentially with the Chinese position about Iranian nuclear aims; and defer to them.
Saturday, April 10, 2010
April 10, 2010 Saturday
--working on Social Love in adults topic, where an individual looks to others to help him realize his goals.
--have just moved into a really nice residence downtown Reno, have resumed my routine: early morning go out for shopping; walks, especially near the Truckee River and play ball against a wall for further exercise; Senior Center for lunch weekdays, library for Internet, etc., additional shopping, dinner at the Rescue Mission on weekends; event attending and TV; reading in late evening. And that's my regular routine here in Reno!
--will be working on several items for the ruminations blog when I finish with the adult social love writing.
Will need to do research for at least one of them. I've been using the talk shows and CNN and Fox discussions for topic fodder.
--have just moved into a really nice residence downtown Reno, have resumed my routine: early morning go out for shopping; walks, especially near the Truckee River and play ball against a wall for further exercise; Senior Center for lunch weekdays, library for Internet, etc., additional shopping, dinner at the Rescue Mission on weekends; event attending and TV; reading in late evening. And that's my regular routine here in Reno!
--will be working on several items for the ruminations blog when I finish with the adult social love writing.
Will need to do research for at least one of them. I've been using the talk shows and CNN and Fox discussions for topic fodder.
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