Shift of Power

LABOR DISPUTE-SCOTT WALKER-WISCONSIN-REPUBLICANS-UNION BUSTING

2011-02-24T11:25:00.000-06:00

UNITED STATES CONTINUES TO DETERIORATE:

DIVIDED WE FALL

The following slightly paraphrased excerpt is from “The Ruins Of Empires,” by C.F. Volney, 1791...

Nations and states prosper because their social institutions conform to the true laws of nature. And because the people, enjoying liberty and security for their persons and their property, can display the full extent of their faculties. That is to say, all the energies of their self-love.

However, when all the principles of society are dissolved, there is no longer any common interest, no longer any public spirit. This causes a distinction of casts and races to arise, which then reduces the maintenance of disorder to a regular system. So that one who is born of this or that blood, is born a slave or a tyrant—property or proprietor, privileged or poor..

With oppressors being less numerous than the oppressed it is necessary to perfect the science of oppression in order to support this false equilibrium. The art of governing has become the art of subjugating the many to the few. To enforce an obedience that is so contrary to instinct, the severest punishments are established, and the cruelty of laws render manners atrocious.

The distinction of persons within the state is established by two codes, two orders of criminal justice, and two sets of laws. Placed between tendencies of the heart and an oath uttered from one's mouth, people have two consciences in contradiction with each other. Ideas of justice and injustice no longer have any foundation within understanding.

Under such a system, people fall into dejection and despair, and occurrences of nature are added to the other evils that assail them. Prostrated by so many calamities, people attribute the causes to superior and hidden powers. Because people have tyrants on earth, they fancy others in heaven, and superstition aggravates the misfortune of nations.

One consequence of this is fatal doctrines with gloomy and misanthropic systems of religion become dominant. They paint their gods like their despots, wicked and envious. To appease them, humans offer up the sacrifice of all their enjoyment. Surrounded in privation, they reverse the order of nature.

They conceive pleasures to be crimes and suffering as expiation. People endeavor to love pain and renounce the love of self. Because of religion, humans persecute their senses, hate their life, and with a self-denying and anti-social morality, plunge a nation into the apathy of death.

When a holy indolence spreads over the political world, fields are deserted, empires are depopulated, monuments are neglected, and deserts multiply. Ignorance, superstition, and fanaticism combine their operations to overwhelm the earth with devastation and ruin.

Thus agitated by their own passions, humans, whether collectively or individually taken, are always greedy and improvident. They pass from slavery to tyranny, from pride to baseness, from presumption to despondency, making themselves the perpetual instruments of their own misfortunes.

These, then, are the principles, simple and natural, which regulate the destiny of nations and states. By this regular and connected series of causes and effects, they rise or fall, just in proportion as the physical laws of the human heart are respected or violated. In the course of successive changes, a hundred different nations, a hundred different empires, have, by turns, been humbled, elevated, conquered, overthrown, and repeated their instructive lessons for the earth.

However, since the experience of past ages is lost for the living—since the errors of progenitors have not instructed their descendants, these examples are about to reappear. The earth will see the tremendous scenes it has forgotten, renewed. New revolutions will agitate nations and empires. Powerful thrones will again be overturned. Terrible catastrophes will once again teach humankind that the laws of nature, and the precepts of wisdom and truth, cannot be infringed with impunity.

Presumptuous and ignorant people, who arrogate the earth to yourselves! If your imaginary God were to gather all the generations of past and present what would be of Christians and Muslims, of the sects calling themselves universal? What would be the judgment over the real universality of humankind? It is by this judgement that knowledge loses itself to incoherent systems. It is by this judgement that evidence exposes truth. And, it is by this judgement that the powerful and simple laws of nature and reason, of a common and general mover resides.

The only true God is the laws of nature, impartial and just, shedding rain on a country without asking who is its prophet, that causes the sun to shine alike on the entire human race—on white as on black, on the Jew, Muslim, Christian, and on the Idolater. It is nature that rears the harvest wherever cultivation is diligent, that multiplies every nation where industry and order prevails, that brings prosperity to every empire where justice is practiced, where the powerful are restrained, where the poor are protected by laws, and the weak live in safety. The real universality of humanity can only be found in those places where all people enjoy all rights given by nature, and a compact is formed in justice.

Does any of this sound familiar, or ring true to you? Until next time give Peace a Chance.
James Tinsley, B.A.

LOSER DEMOCRATS-CORRUPT REPUBLICANS-SCREWED AMERICANS

2010-11-11T08:53:00.000-06:00

11 November 2010

IGNORANT AMERICAN'S CONTINUE TO ELECT IDIOTS

“Just as long as people worship a God in heaven, there can be but little liberty on earth.” R. G. Ingersoll

Following a time of personal turmoil, uncertainty and upheaval in recent months, I am back. Before moving on, I would like to point out that Israeli Zionists continue to act like Nazi's; arrogant, self-important petulant persecutor's. God, that is, the God imagined by Moses, appropriated by Christian's, and used by Mohammed, is the underlying cause of nearly all humankind's suffering and war. And will be so long as It is considered or accepted as necessary or important to any aspect of government, or governance.

God and religion and religious practices may be just fine for individuals; I said “may be” just fine. So far there is no substantive proof or evidence of this, but if ignorance and superstition is someone's personal lifestyle choice, that's their deal. However, God, religion and religious practices are absolutely irrelevant and immaterial to any aspect of government.

If our species our civilization is to advance beyond our present condition and level of development anything and everything to do with God, religion and religious creed must be exorcised from our government. Then it must be somehow permanently prohibited in future. Keep in mind that as an American citizen I am primarily concerned with and speaking about United States Federal, State's, and local government. I do not have a vote in any other part of the world, therefore I have no say-so in other people's internal affairs. Although, while my concern is for all people everywhere, the United States of America is where I live.

This brings us to the current topic and my observation of ignorant American's electing idiots. That is to say they continue to elect idiots. According to American Heritage Dictionary, 3rd Edition, the first definition of an idiot is a foolish or stupid person. A stupid person is one that is slow to learn or understand. It is hard to imagine anyone challenging the assertion that our politicians, our elected representatives and officials are in fact, stupid. That is, idiots. Bear in mind that idiocy has little to do with education; Einstein is a great example of a brilliant idiot...so is Rain-man.

But, our politicians are simply the resulting effect of general ignorance that permeates United States citizens and society. All of us. Ignorant is different from idiot. According to the same source cited above ignorant is lacking education or knowledge; unaware or uninformed. Again, I feel confident that, broadly speaking, there is very little room for argument or dispute that as a nation we are definitely lacking in education and knowledge. America's current rankings with the rest of the developed world regarding reading, math, science, health care availability, infant deaths, maternal deaths, disparity between the very wealthy elite and everyone one else, poverty rates, and with respect to basic human and civil rights is undeniable evidence of our ignorance.

Of course, when I or anyone points this out, the nearly unanimous response from fellow American's is defensive consternation. Another glaring indication of the pervasive pall and pox that is symptomatic of our ignorance. That is, our lack of education and knowledge.

But then again, why should we expect anything different or better? When a recent in depth survey by the Pew Research Foundation revealed that slightly more than ¾ of all Americans say they believe in some kind of God, Supernatural Power, or Force that either controls or interferes in the affairs of this world. Moreover, nearly 60% of our citizens claim that they pray regularly, believe that prayer is answered and can effect outcomes in their daily life, as well as throughout the world as a whole. Most of our nation's “God-believers” claim to be Christian whether or not they are affiliated with an organized group, church, or particular religious creed. More proof of ignorance plaguing the majority of our people.

Finally, to close out this posting I ask the reader to consider the following questions.

What good or long-lasting positive contribution has any God or any religion ever been with respect to humanity or civilization? Has belief in or worship of any God ever added to or unconditionally promoted the advancement of education, human discovery, science or invention? Is there any credible substantiated proof or evidence that any God, any prayer, act of worship or sacrifice ever prevented disease, famine, earthquake, flood, tornado, heart attack, or any of life's natural suffering or processes? Has any God or religion ever prevented war?

Conversely, has the idea or cause of God and religion actively prevented and even punished by torture by sentence of death practically every positive contribution, every scientific discovery and advancement made by humans? Has the idea or cause of God and religion ever been propagated by force with sword or guns? Has any war or conquest ever been perpetrated in the name of God or religion? Has the idea or cause of God and religion ever rejoiced and celebrated human life unconditionally without restraint? Has God or any religious orthodoxy ever been about human happiness here, and now? Is the idea of God and religion dedicated to human liberty and equality, or is it fundamentally about subjugation, servility, and suppression of human instinct, free thought, and all that is natural to the human condition of life and living?

I leave you with this to think about. The future of our nation depends entirely on people, not God. Our United States of America is in decline headed for certain failure because of Christianity, because of the deleterious destructive dogma associated with religions arising from the code of Moses, because of God. Our only real hope is to get God and religion as far away from our government as possible, and focus all our attention on the only thing that has any true value or meaning: human prosperity, growth, and happiness.

Until next time, Give Peace a Chance.

James Tinsley, B.A.

ISRAELI-PALESTINIAN-ZIONIST-NAZI-ISLAM

2010-02-25T18:56:00.000-06:00

"No God has ever succored the weak, the oppressed, or the enslaved."

R. G. Ingersoll

I wish to be perfectly clear, I am not a racist. I see no "color," only shades along a continuum. I am not anti-Semitic, or Anti-Jewish. I harbor no hatered or malice towards any ethnicity or group. I do not attack or hate human beings. I attack ideas, creeds, and ignorance. I hate gods, dogma, oppression and slavery-of body or mind. JBT

With that said, Israeli's and other Zionists, had better pay attention. They seem to be unaware that they are treading on very thin ice. This arrogant, self-important, self-chosen tribe of liars, thieves, and murderers are becoming Nazi's. They have been in the process for nearly a quarter century, much more so in the past ten years.

However, in all fairness, I will say that Jews, to some degree are victims, innocent victims. They are simply doing what they have been told to do, following orders, living according to law. And, ignorant as they are, Jews genuinely believe they are correct.

Of course, these orders they follow were given by a second tier, insecure, petulant, self-admitted jealous vengeful God, called Yahweh, or Jehovah. And included in the law Jews follow is a set known as, Jehovah's "Laws of War." Look them up (Old Testament, Pentateuch, Torah), ask any honest Jew.

Everything the Israeli's are currently inflicting on the Palestinian's, all the inhuman barbaric treatment-taking their land, homes and businesses by force and by fraud; isolating them into ghetto-like areas that grow smaller and smaller, Israeli's keep them locked within these concentrated prison camps. Surrounded by heavily armed, bloodthirsty young soldiers and police,they are under seige.

Israeli's deny Palestinian's liberty, food, water, medicine, building supplies, work, income, education, electricity, fuel...and on and on. The Israeli's perpetrate constant terror and threat, they attack at will, they kill women, children, anybody in the line of fire, and they kill Palestinian's around the world with impunity.

The truth, that is, the facts, as determined by the undeniable record of evidence, is that Israeli's and other Jews have nearly become the mirror image of the ideas, ideology, and conduct that, in the 20th Century, resulted in massive death and tremendous suffering among Jews.

Jews have only one card to play, the Holocaust card. Without Holocaust, Jews have nothing; no leverage, no power, no ability to manipulate. But, Israeli's and other Zionist's are beginning to reveal their true colors. The guilt is wearing thin, and hate is, in most instances, more powerful, more intoxicating, more seductive than everything else is.

Jews have hated Islam, Hitler, Nazi's, and Holocaust for so long they are becoming what they hate. Israeli's are now committing exactly the same kind of malevolence upon Palestinian's that Hitler and the Nazi's enacted on Jews. Israeli's are Nazi. They should either kill all Palestinian's and put them out of their suffering, or stop this crap and move on.

There is not now, and never has been any El, any Yahweh, any Jehovah, Allah, or God. Jews are NOT "Chosen" people. Jews, like every other living person, are nothing more, or nothing less than human beings. There is no such thing as a Black, no Red, no Yellow, no Arab, no Chineese, no Indian or Asian or White person. There is, on this planet, only one species of Humans, only shades of Brown, only one Human Race.

As long as Humankind worships some God, allows the idea of some supposed Supernatural being or force to keep it subjugated by ignorance, darkness, and fear; allows Superstition and creed to dominate and control government, education, and science, and poison human actions and minds-as long as this persists, Humankind will continue to stagnate.

Just as long as any God or Religion holds power over people, Civilization cannot, will not advance. Our only real hope is human beings, us. Only humans can save Humanity.

Until next time, Give Peace a Chance.

James B. Tinsley, B.A.

2010 PREDICTIONS-PROPHECIES-POSSIBILITIES-PROBABILITIES

2009-12-31T13:23:00.000-06:00

"Liberty cannot be sacrificed for the sake of temperance, for the sake of morality, or for the sake of anything. Liberty is of more value than everything else."

R. G. Ingersoll

In the new year, 2010, I predict nothing substantial will change. Living standards, conditions, and expectations of average American citizens will continue to deteriorate; orthodox Christian fundamentalists, evangelicals, and Biblical Zionists will re-emerge as the primary driving force of common politics, foreign policy and homeland security, with respect to terrorism, Islam, and Israel. By the end of 2010, after the election, battle lines will be even more sharply drawn, fortified fronts established, and, as a result, further division of the people of the United States into many fractions vying for influence, power, and authority will set the stage for more frequent violent conflict.

The religious zealots insanely pursuing Armageddon and the Rapture, will begin to directly challenge the wealthy elite minority faction for full control of financial matters and constitutional politics, that is to say, the politics of war and federal power. I predict the anti-Christians and anti-religionists will become much stronger, louder, and reactionary. Labor, teachers, nurses and other professionals will return to organized union to conflate their number and enhance their power in preparation for battle. Within each of these major forces untold numbers of smaller more targeted and sectarian fractions will begin to grow and, by year's end, be more numerous and obvious.

I predict that in the coming year, 2010, the most wealthy will increase their money and power, the rest of us will continue to let them take our wages, our power, our health, our intellectual development, our labor, and our lives. I predict by the end of 2010 Americans will have less liberty, less equality, less, money, education, general welfare and security. By the end of next year citizens of the United States will be more subjugated to God and less human; more enslaved to religion and state, less free to speak and act; more afraid of our government and each other, less confident and empowered.

For the new year, 2010, I prophesy that ignorance, cruelty, and hypocrisy, the perpetual fruit of ALL RELIGIOUS ORTHODOXY, will dominate the mind of the nation, exert unnatural influence on our politics, and thereby substantially increase suffering, despair, and dissatisfaction. As a result of this the darkness of decline will deepen, and, absent any counter-action, the process of America's deterioration and ultimate failure will continue to accelerate toward an eventual conclusion in the not-to-distant future.

There is always the possibility we, as a nation, could make that next leap forward in intellectual development to realize that Human Beings, not some imaginary vengeful jealous God-thing, are the true source and most important valuable asset on planet Earth. It is possible by doing this and then acting to support, enhance and empower people that we might begin to reform our Humanity, then our nation, and finally the world. There is a slight possibility that we will make health care, education, living conditions, personal choice and security, that is to say, human liberty, equality, and happiness more important, more valuable, more desirable than excessive profit, power, or piety.

The probability is, unfortunately, that we are so afraid, so subjugated and controlled, so weak, ignorant and superstitious, we will do little or nothing. The probability is we will continue to grovel and serve our masters, heavenly and earthly; that we will believe and propagate the lies, fraud and terror perpetuated by religious orthodoxy and our Untied States government; that we will compromise until there is absolutely no liberty, no justice, and no chance for any equality, whatsoever.

"Compromise is the process by which hypocrites deceive each other." R.G. Ingersoll

I close hoping the best for every person in the United states, and around the world. Until next time, Give Peace a Chance.

James B. Tinsley, B.A.

Be sure to visit my other blog and website, especially Colonel Bob's Graphic Tee's. Buy an Ingersoll quote t-shirt and support the Project.

YAWEH-GOD-JEHOVAH-AMERICA-JESUS-MOHAMMED-MONEY

2009-10-08T15:40:00.001-05:00

Christianity Destroys United States;

Declares American Spirit is Blaspheme

"Infidelity is liberty; all religion is slavery." (R. G. Ingersoll)

A great deal has transpired since our last contact just over a month ago. The most alarming events and happenings all appear to indicate that the worst is indeed occurring. Everything will remain the same as it ever was; the Status Quo will prevail, and nothing to improve or contribute to human progress, citizen's progress, will change. In fact, the powerful and wealthy elite occupying America's pseudo-Aristocracy and ruling class are in the process of codifying our retribution for daring to be impudent enough to demand to see a doctor and interfere with projected quarterly profit.

Mark my words, the so-called "health care, or insurance reform" that will become law by year's end, will ultimately be recognized and exposed as yet another massive transfer of public taxpayer wealth (our hard earned and desperately needed cash) into the possesion and control of the richest one percent. An elite minority of select people that currently own more wealth and assets than 95% of those that earn less combined. Again, 1% of Americans own and control the flow of more cash and assets than 95% of Americans put together.

Yes, I know many will think that I am just saying that because Michael Moore happens to use this fact in his latest movie. It is not true. I first encountered this number several years ago while reading a book by journalist, tax expert and investigator, David Cay Johnston, formerly with the New York Times Newspaper. I have also heard the same statistic used by several economists in the past year. The point is, 95% of us all together have just slightly less economic power and resources than 1% of us. How does that happen, how is it even possible?

Throughout human history those who seized, assumed, inherited, were Divinely chosen, or thrust into power by abused and desperate subjects, employ the same means to manipulate and pacify, subjugate and control the restless rabble. Every major or influential society, state, nation, confederation of nationstates, and empire in the whole course of human civilization has been, and remains so today, the same in this regard. Even the self-declared, self-appointed "Greatest most powerful democratic nation in human history," the United States of America, is the same as every other that came before, or exits today.

The most effective and cost efficient means used byr those in power to remain in power is fear, or terror; also, division, despair, and dependance. These tools of authority are always reinforced with state or government approved brutality-physical and mental, restricted liberties, imprisonment or death. It is also a fact that a government can only brutalize, frighten, and abuse the people for just so long before chaos and anarchy destroy the system bringing down the entire society.

Besides, it is utterly impossible to change a person's beliefs and convictions by any amount of force. So, in order to minimize the harsher methods of excercising power and authority, the ruling elite in most of your more durable longer lasting civilizations offer their citizens promises of a better tomorrow, a brighter more plentiful future for their children.

I ask each reader, off the top of your head, what can you think of that uses division, despair, dependence, and fear in conjunction with the threat of force, punishment, or death. While at the same time attempts to console and bribe your acquiescence, your support and devotion, by offering hope for, and promises of, a better world. A heaven, if you will. Not now, but later. The most obvious answer, to my mind, is religion. In the United States, that would be Christianity, that is, Christian orthodoxy.

The Christian God, in fact, all gods, supreme beings, creators and supernatural powers, infinite and omnipotent, were created by humans to manipulate and control others; to stay in power. Yes, the concept, or idea of an all-knowing, all-seeing, all-powerful being or force was invented as a way to explain this harsh and scarry universe in which we live to our savage ancestors. But, isn't it true that the one that purports to communicate with or have knowledge of "the answers," that can explain "why," fundamentally holds the reins of power and control?

I submit that the overwhelming majority of pain, suffering, torture, slavery, slaughter and cruelty human beings have inflicted in the past, and continue inflicting upon each other today, is perpetrated, that is initiated, by priests, pontiffs, and preachers. As long as any God is believed to be above and over humankind and the affairs of this world liberty and equality are nothing more than mere words. Empty meaningless sounds used as nouns.

Let me be clear. I do not care one bit, nor is it any businees of mine whether someone believes in or worships some God or God-force. I do not hate religious people, or think that every Christian is bad. I do not hate or despise people. I hate and despise creeds; I abhor dogma and sectarian doctrine. As far as I can tell most believers are honest, and most ministers sincere. If a person decides that religious belief and worship is necessary to their well-being and happiness, I have no problem with it. I will fight and die to ensure they have that right. But, the instant that supporters and promoters of religion, any religion, attempt to legislate their beliefs, enact there creed or commandments to be enforced by the full force and authority of law, I will do whatever it takes to stop it.

Religion and religious dogma are irrelevant and immaterial to the actions and function of government. Government must be for this world. It must be for human security, for the progress, proseprity, and happiness of all citizens absolutely equally. The United States of America is in the condition it is currently in because nearly everything this nation has done since before the American Revolution, until this very moment, has been done to establish the Holy Bible, God, and Jesus Christ as supreme, and Christianity as the one true religion. Christian orthodoxy, its promoters and ardent supporters, are bringing our great country to its knees, they are in the process of causing the ruin of America.

Unless, and until, the citizens of America, whether believers in religion, or not, act to scrub our laws and government officials clean of the entanglement and influence of Christian orthodoxy. That is, unless, and until, we take aggressive action to eliminate the deleterious and insideous influence of ignorant superstition from the purpose and function of our government, our nation will continue to deteriorate, decline, and will, in the end, fail. We still have a choice: either God, or people. It is in our hands. Until next time...Give Peace a Chance.

James B. Tinsley, B.A.

Check out my new blog and historical project at:

http://www.rgingersollprojectblog.com/ , or,

https://sites.google.com/a/rgingersollprojectblog.com/ingersol-renewal-and-restoration-project/

SHIP OF FOOLS-OBAMA'S IGNORANCE-STUPID AMERICANS

2009-09-03T14:43:00.005-05:00

3 September 2009

It is four days shy of three months since my last posting. Until just recently I drifted, or was thrown, into and out of various states of mind and being. All were overwhelmingly on the negative side of the continuum; sadness, frustration, depression, anger, despondency, rage. At one point near the middle of July, I literally woke up one morning saying out loud, "fuck it! the truth is that, as a general rule, people do not give a damn, we care about nothing but 'me.' It's all about I, me, mine." I spent the next several days thinking about why I, or anyone, should make any effort to make it better. Why do I keep imagining that anything that I might do, or say, will make any difference? Never did figure out the answers.

What I did decide is that, in spite of the futility, I will speak and write my honest thoughts, I will stand by my convictions to the very death. Even though I am fully aware that I am pissing directly into the wind, am speaking gibberish to idiots, and suffering with fools, I will not, I must not abandon the cause of human progress, prosperity, and happiness. Regardless of expected failure, I will, I must do all that I possibly can do to ensure that every citizen of the United States has, and is guaranteed, absolutely equal status, privileges, and rights by government. And, finally, I determined to undermine, to castrate all religion; and ultimately to disabuse Christian orthodoxy and their imaginary God of all authority, power and influence.

Understand, I do not say such things out of malice or hatred. Nor, do I excoriate from superiority, or out of arrogance. I, too, am an American citizen, and as such, I am no better, or worse than any other person; and conversely, no one-absolutely no other person is better than me. Some, however, are worse.

Take for example our current social war over health care, health cost, health insurance, health access, health privilege, and health rights. How is it even possible that we, as a nation, a people, a society, do not, cannot, will not, act to give every citizen of the United States proper, unrestricted basic care for all matters of physical and mental health from conception to coffin. How can anyone that claims the title Christian do anything else? What would your Jesus do? Actually it is a trick question. Those that market Jesus as love, mercy, forgiveness, as an advocate for the weak and downtrodden; as healer, as friend of the poor and enemy of the rich, must stand for universal and unrestricted care for all, or admit they are hypocrites. While those that kill physicians over what they insist is a "Right To Life," and wish to kill and destroy all dark skin people and Muslims in a vain and vindictive effort to avenge being driven from the Holy Land and the empty sepulchre of Christ by the followers of Mohammad. For those that hate all that is human, and love Jesus because they know He did not come to bring peace on earth, but instead came with sword to set daughter against mother, and son against father, must insist that their Jesus is the Holy Prophet of money, privilege, and power. They know, without any doubt, only the unclean, wicked, and evil will go without care. That Jesus, and His Father, God, will protect and care for all who are worthy.

Can any person with any degree of intellectual development and cognitive ability honestly say that we, as a nation, a people, a society, consider even one dollar to be more valuable, more important, more necessary than one human life, any human life? My friends we are adrift on a Ship of Fools, led by an ignorant Congress and President. We are stupid Americans.

Until next time, Give Peace a Chance.
James B. Tinsley, B.A.

HUMAN RIGHTS-CIVIL RIGHTS-EQUAL RIGHTS

2009-06-07T12:39:00.004-05:00

7 June 2009

FEAR PARALYZES-REASON LIBERATES
RELIGION IS FEAR-SCIENCE IS REASON

As we dig deeper into the meaning and purpose of Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government, keep this in mind: Time flows, or moves, in only one direction-forward.

Everything, absolutely everything in the known universe operates, that is proceeds, adheres to, one process. It is the process of birth, stabilization, decline, and death. This process is the signifier of change. Change is the actual observable experience of this process. Change is the consequence, or result of cause and effect, which is the natural law that underlies, drives, literally every aspect of what we call life. That is being alive, living. And finally, change is the natural expression of time. In other words, as a result of cause and effect nothing remains the same from moment to moment. Therefore, change is always occurring and cannot be stopped.

If we accept these statements to be true, and they are, then we face a perplexing paradox. The paradox is that in spite of knowing full-well (and I do believe that every human being, on some level, does know) that change is inevitable, a fact, a certainty, we-humankind- resist change even at the cost of our own life. Why?

This conundrum has perplexed me for decades. Why has humanity throughout civilized history wasted so much of it's physical energy and intellectual power trying to stop that which cannot be stopped? This puzzle is one of the primary reasons behind the creation and development of Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government, which brings us back to point of this blog.

The primary premise from which the logic of Humanistic Equalism Philosophy for Ethical Government flows is that if the sole reason for a government to exist is improving the lives and condition of all citizens by establishing, then guaranteeing absolutely equal status, privileges, and rights for all, it will be an ethical government.

So far in this review at the beginning of the second year of publishing Shift of Power, I have emphasized the Humanistic element. I contend that meaning, or purpose of life, as far as we are concerned, is about only one thing: human beings. Human prosperity, human experience, and human happiness. The first law of nature is life, that is, to survive, to live, to stay alive. Thus, it is for human development and improvement society and government should, indeed must, exist.

The second law of nature is equality, or, as I have defined it within the context of my work, absolutely equal status, privileges, and rights for every citizen. Equal, or equality, is not synonymous with fair. Fair is a subjective concept that flows from, is a product of equal. Equality is a principle. To put it another way, fair treatment is relative and subject to interpretation, while equal is either the same, or it is not. Equal and equality is constant. As such, if government functions treating every citizen, private and corporate, equal, then it must be fair. Within the context of my work, Equalism (here-to-fore unknown), arises by adding the suffix "ism" to the root word equal.

This next bit is somewhat technical, so please bear with me. The suffix "ism" means action, process, or practice that implies doctrine, theory, or system of principles. In the case of this political philosophy, Equalism is narrowly defined as a doctrine, or theory regarding the improvement of human life that is animated by the principle of equal, or equality with respect to the function of government. It contains a system that describes the process to actively apply the theoretical principles of absolutely equal status, privileges, and rights for all citizens. Now, what does this mean in plain language?

After nearly fifty-seven years I have concluded that every human being inherently, naturally desires to be secure, happy, and treated as equal. Even the most ardent conservative, and the most dogmatic liberal must agree to this. What I mean is, I am convinced that human beings, every human being on earth, comes into this life with this desire. This is our natural condition, it is intrinsic to our nature, it's in our DNA. Of course, human history will testify that we have pursued fulfilment of this desire by mostly negative means, that is, fear, hatred, discrimination, and war. Human history is the story of coercion, force, conquest, and oppression. I submit that the source of these means and methods is religious orthodoxy and I argue in my work that religion's influence and entanglement in the function of government is the source for the failure of all states, nations, and empires.

Until we, human beings, act and govern exclusively and expressly for the purpose of improving and advancing the human race; and until we institute a governing process whereby EVERY citizen is regarded as having absolutely equal status, privileges, and rights our species, indeed civilization, cannot advance. There is no doubt that technology, communication, science, medicine, and all of our material existence will continue to develop. Our society, our social condition, the way we treat each other however, will remain just as it is this very moment.

Society today, that is, the way people treat each other and the way governments act and function have not changed noticeably in over five thousand years. The truth is humans are just slightly less barbaric than our cave dwelling ancestors. We may be more sophisticated, more subtle, more politically correct in our barbarism to each other, but we are barbaric none the less. I realize this is a strong statement that most people immediately reject as asinine and absurd. I wish it were not true. I encourage readers, once your outrage subsides, to simply take some time to seriously reflect and think about the news of any given day. If what happens around the world, and in your home town everyday is not inhumane and barbaric behavior, then the formal dictionary definition of barbarity, barbarism, barbaric must be changed.

Until next time, Give Peace a Chance.
James B. Tinsley, B.A.
REVOLUTION ACTION ALERT: Please speak out vigorously, forcefully, and loudly as often as possible to demand that Congress and President Obama enact SINGLE-PAYER HEALTH CARE and eliminate all useless fraudulent corporate for-profit health insurance. You can start by checking out singlepayeraction.org and ralphnader.org.

100 DAYS-RELIGION-SEX-T.V.-TORTURE

2009-04-26T11:42:00.005-05:00

25 April 2009

Keep us doped with religion, sex, and T.V. We think we are so clever, classless, and free. But, we're still fucking peasants, as far as I can see.
(paraphrase, John Lennon, "Working Class Hero," 1971)

Continuing our review of the meaning and purpose of a new political philosophy, Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government. It is the next natural and logical adaptation in the evolution of government systems. "Why, or how," one might ask, "is it the next advance in government?"

The simple answer, the short answer is that Humanistic Equalism makes the citizen's lives with absolutely equal status, privileges, and rights for all the reason, the justification for government to exist. As was noted in my last posting (16 April 2009), thus far in human history has been conceived, instituted, and carried out for one overriding primary purpose: To protect the status quo. By that I mean, to ensure continuing dominance of the wealthy elite minority faction ruling class over, and at the expense of, the common citizen.

Dr. Howard Zinn, historian, activist, and author of, People's History of the United States, points out that early Twentieth Century historian Charles Beard "warned us that governments-including the government of the United States- are not neutral, that they represent the dominant economic interests, and that their constitutions are intended to serve these interests." If one examines the political clauses of our United States Constitution in light of the economic implications behind them, then the document becomes not simply the work of wise men trying to establish a decent and orderly society, but the work of certain groups trying to maintain their privileges while giving just enough rights and liberties to just enough of the people to ensure popular support.

I encourage everyone to take some time and read the "Federalist Papers." Especially those that would argue that our United States government was created and subsequently adopted because it guarantees everyone equal protection, equal opportunity, and equal rights. The Federalist Papers is a series of essays written by John Jay, Alexander Hamilton, and James Madison. They were published as anonymous articles in favor of adopting the Constitution. There is not room here to go into detail of the various arguments put forth by Jay, Hamilton, and Madison, but suffice to say, they reveal a great deal about the true nature of our Constitution.

However, pertinent to our discussion, it is worth taking note of an argument expressed by James Madison in Federalist #10. Madison's greatest fear for our new Republic was unrest, even rebellion, caused by disputes among minority factions spreading throughout the thirteen states. Madison believed that, "These disputes arise from the various and unequal distribution of property." In other words, the problem was how to control factional struggles that come from inequalities in wealth.

So, according to James Madison, primary author of our Constitution, the solution was to have a large nation extending over thirteen states because then "it will be more difficult for all who feel it to discover their own strength, and to act in unison with each other..." That is, all grievances, dissent, and dissatisfaction among people would remain local, or at worst sectional; they would be contained and controlled.

As for Alexander Hamilton, his feelings and philosophy were well known. He was very clear when he wrote, "All communities divide themselves into the few and the many. The few are the rich and well born, the other is the mass of the people... Give therefore to the first class a distinct permanent share in the government."

Life, liberty, the pursuit of happiness or property, and equal protection under the law are elements of American Mythology. Equal rights, equal opportunity, equal representation are a fabrication, a lie. All of these concepts are nothing more than bullet points in an advertising campaign, a marketing scheme. They are merely one means of selling the world and common citizens on the idea of American Exceptionalism. Not one of these things has ever been true, not for one minute of one day.

From its adoption in 1789, and continuing through this very moment, our Constitution faithfully serves to protect and extend the privileges and interests of the wealthy elite minority faction ruling class. By doing just enough for small property owners, farmers, and the middle-class the wealthy elite is able to sustain a broad base of support. This tactic enables them to keep control using only minimum coercion with maximum enforcement of law. All this is made believable and acceptable in the name of patriotism and unity.

After reading this, when you leave this site to continue with other matters, consider this. To divide and conquer is the oldest, most sure means of seizing power. The most reliable means of holding power is giving just enough to just enough of the people. The United States of America is the product of both these methods.

We will continue this discussion next time. Until then, Give Peace a Chance.
James B. Tinsley, B.A.
REVOLUTION ACTION ALERT: The iron is hot, time to strike it! Please take action as soon as possible. Email, call, write to your Representatives, Senators, Attorney General Eric Holder, President Obama. DEMAND without equivocation that a "Special Prosecutor" be appointed to fully investigate, then prosecute any and all Constitutional violations and criminal acts committed by G.W. Bush, R. Cheney, et al. during the period from January 2001 through 20 January 2009. A so-called "Truth" commission, a Senate investigation will not do. If activities such as an unconstitutional illegal declaration of war, torture, extra-legal spying on American citizens, and many others are allowed to go unexposed and unprosecuted a dangerous legal precedent will then be in place. If this is permitted then we, as a nation, will have fundamentally changed the perceived generally understood meaning of what the United States is supposed to be. To act go to c-span.org and whitehouse.gov .

INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE-GOVERNMENT TRANSPARENCY-TAX DAY TEA PARTIES

2009-04-16T06:23:00.003-05:00

16 April 2009

As we begin charting the course that Shift of Power blog will take during this second year of its publication, I think it is time for a review of the meaning and purpose of Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government. I will start with some words by the father of modern Capitalism, Adam Smith, and French philosopher Jean Jacques Rousseau with respect to government.

Pryor to the advent of economic terrorist Milton Friedman's Chicago School of Economics reformation in the last quarter of the Twentieth Century, Adam Smith's, Wealth of Nations, was considered sacrosanct by a majority of economists and capitalists in America. In this free market holy work Smith writes candidly about the fundamental character of government regarding the issue of "class." Smith says that, "Laws and government may be considered in this and indeed in every case as a combination of the rich to oppress the poor, and preserve unto themselves the inequality of the goods which would otherwise be soon destroyed by the attacks of the poor...". What he is saying is that all government is designed and created to protect the interests of the wealthy elite minority ruling faction from the common people by oppression, and to preserve a condition of inequality.

At about the same time in France, philosopher Jean Jacques Rousseau published a work regarding the results of his examination into how government and laws came to exist. In his book entitled, Discourse on the Origin of Inequality, Rousseau surmised that, "society and laws gave new fetters to the weak and new forces to the rich, irretrievably destroyed natural liberty, established forever the law of property and inequality, changed adroit usurpation into irrevocable right, and for the profit of a few ambitious men henceforth subjected the entire human race to labor, servitude, and misery." In other words, government and laws were created and instituted to enslave the weak by establishing as a right of the wealthy elite minority ruling faction the protection of their property and profit, thus subjecting all others to a condition of labor, servitude, and misery.

If anyone takes the time to do the research you will find there are many others throughout human history that have reached and expressed similar conclusions, myself included. In my original manuscript, Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government of Common Sense, by Common People, for Common Good, I insist that never in the history of human civilization has any government existed exclusively for the purpose of enriching all citizen's lives. There has never been a government system with absolutely equal status, privileges, and rights guaranteed for every citizen. So far, every known government, including our present United States government, has been designed, instituted and enforced to favor the wealthy elite minority ruling faction by oppressing the rest of the population. To put it another way, all government thus far protects property, profit, power, and position through enslavement of we, the people.

I contend that Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government is the next logical adaptation in the evolution of government systems. The system and process of government derived from the political philosophy of Humanistic Equalism codifies the principle of human progress and liberty over property and profit. It establishes that, with respect to function and purpose, government shall maintain absolutely equal status, privileges, and rights for EVERY citizen, that it must treat all citizens, whether individuals or corporations, absolutely equally. Of course, these ideas are contrary to our present system of government, and they are diametrically opposed to the fundamental tenants of Christian orthodoxy.

I find it perversely amusing that nearly everyone considers the creation of a government dedicated to human needs, human liberty and progress, as well as absolutely equal status, privileges, and rights for all to be radically anti-American, even un-Christian. Yes, everyone declares without hesitation that they believe in freedom, liberty, and equality. But, the truth is they only believe in freedom, liberty, and equality for themselves and their group. I submit that nearly every American is ready and willing to die fighting for, or kill anyone who challenges their particular perception of liberty, freedom, and equality.

In other words, generally we say that other people, other nations
can determine their own government, laws, religious exercise and social structure. However, unless it is the same or very similar to ours, odds are that, at some point, we will bring the force of our military to bear against them in an effort to force our "great American Democracy" upon them. This includes forcing the acceptance of Christianity and its practices. The point is we, in the United States, scream and cheer for freedom and liberty, but only as long as it is American freedom and liberty. We preach and promote the tenants of equality, but only as long as the wealthy elite are treated more equal.

We will continue this discussion next time. Before taking my leave, I wish to introduce a new feature that will appear at the end of my posting called, "Revolution Action Alert." It is exactly what it sounds like, an exhortation to take some action with regard to a specific problem. Until next time, Give Peace a Chance.
James B. Tinsley, B.A.
REVOLUTION ACTION ALERT: Please take time to email, call, or write your Representatives, Senators, Attorney General Holder, and President Obama and DEMAND that a "Special Prosecutor" be appointed to investigate and prosecute G.W. Bush, R. Cheney, et al. for any and all Constitutional and criminal violations committed during the period from January 2001 through 20 January 2009. Our nation cannot move forward until this is done. Please tell your friends and family to do the same. We must not be afraid of Truth.

G20-LONDON CALLING-ISRAEL KILLING-AMERICA FAILING

2009-04-01T18:46:00.004-05:00

1 April 2009

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SHIFT OF POWER BLOG!

Today is the one year anniversary for this blog. When I sat down on 1 April 2008 to write and publish my first blog entry I had no idea about what to do, or how to do it. Though I have figured a few things out, I am still quite ignorant. I am still struggling to improve, to make this blog more exciting and widely read. To that end, I anticipate making a variety of changes, additions, and hopefully, improvements in the coming weeks.

I first published this blog shortly after completing the second draft of a manuscript entitled, Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government of Common Sense, by Common People, for Common Good.

It is an original non-fiction work expounding a new political philosophy that I started writing in 2006.

As an "unknown" author, as yet unpublished in book form, I concluded it is highly unlikely that any publisher would be willing to get behind the unorthodox radical ideas posited by Humanistic Equalism. Ideas such as human progress, prosperity, and happiness, or absolutely equal status, privileges, and rights for every citizen. Or, the insane idea insistent upon the proposition that if a government is concerned first and foremost with people, instead of profit, piety, position, and power, such a system and process must result in an ethical government.

As the late John Lennon tells us, IMAGINE.

Is this even possible? Or is it nothing more than smoke induced idealism? Are we still too savage, to uncivilized to envision and institute a government that functions to enhance, embolden, and embrace all citizens, that endows everyone with absolutely equal status, privileges, and rights with respect to the actions and treatment by government? Is the human brain still so undeveloped, so superstitious that our mind cannot conjure or conceive of creating a system and process of government that is truly free, completely and inviolably divorced from the interference, the explicit influence of religious orthodoxy? Why is it beyond our capability to imagine a government devoted to improving the condition of human life? That is to say the lives of all citizens.

There was no doubt in my mind, no reputable publishing house would be bold enough, progressive enough to gamble on a nobody espousing such heresy. I reasoned that the most likely outcome will be some type of self-publishing, or e-publishing arrangement. As this was, and is, the case it occurred to me that writing and publishing a blog about Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government could be a great vehicle to introduce it and establish a foundation. Thus, Shift of Power appeared in the blogosphere one year ago.

I continue to employ this device as the primary means of introducing, defining, describing, and demonstrating the principles, concepts, system, and process of Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government. One of my primary objectives is to apply this unique new political philosophy to our current conditions and circumstances in order to validate it's value and viability. I endeavor to prove my hypothesis that Humanistic Equalism is the next natural logical progression in the evolution of government. I am firmly convinced that until common citizens exercise our tremendous power to overthrow our current bad government, then replace it with a better one, nothing we do will retard the accelerating decline of our nation. To this end, I actively encourage my fellow citizens to unite, challenge the status quo and carry out another revolution. We must find it in ourselves to act as our forefathers and mothers did and wrest power from an elite minority ruling faction, a pseudo-aristocracy. I declare that it is our duty and obligation to alter the course of the United States of America and fulfil the legacy of our United States Constitution.

I hope my readers will continue to stop by and tell others about Shift of Power. Look for the modifications beginning soon. Until next time, Give Peace a Chance.

James B. Tinsley, B.A.

SINGLE-PAYER HEALTH CARE SOLUTION

2009-03-25T18:55:00.004-05:00

25 March 2009

We can only truly resolve our health care system dilemma by instituting single-payer health care.

While I am in no way or form suggesting the elimination of private health care in favor of so-called "socialized" medicine. I am absolutely certain that as long as any citizen is required to pay any third party entity for access to basic health care we will be unable to effectively address our current on-going crisis. There is only one solution that will fully accomplish "health care for all", Single-Payer, or Medicare for All. The vehicle for this is ready to be brought to the floor of the House of Representatives for debate and vote. That vehicle is HR-676.

I wish to make myself perfectly clear with respect to health insurance companies, H.M.O.'s, or any kind of third party administrator/ provider. They are all nothing more than fraud, legalized fraud. They take our money, stand between citizens and a healthy life, and provide absolutely no part of caring for any person. They contribute nothing to our health, nothing to our nation's well-being or prosperity, nothing to our children's future, nothing to our society. They are parasites. profiteers, liars, thieves, and con-artists.

Who doesn't want a single-payer system? Insurance companies, pharmaceutical companies, Republicans, most Senators, and President Obama.

Conversely, who wants a single-payer federal health care system? 59% of all physicians, nearly all nurses unions, a majority of small, medium and large businesses, National Chamber of Commerce, and most importantly 70% of our citizens. That fact alone should be enough to make it happen.

On Democracy Now! recently I heard about a group that is being organized to demand that single-payer health care be included in the debate and ultimately enacted. I am actively participating and strongly encourage everyone to visit their website, sign up and get involved. Obama is doing exactly the wrong thing and unless we bring him to heel, make him realize that he works for us, and force him to do what we want I promise you nothing of any real substance will change for most American citizens. The website is www.singlepayeraction.org I also advise that everyone should google HR-676 and read it.

Think about this. With single-payer every citizen will have REAL choice regarding doctor and every aspect of basic primary health care. No co-pays or deductibles for doctor visit, hospital, prescription or therapy.
We can eliminate the bureaucracy and cost of the Veteran Administration and every veteran will get all the care they require, they will be able to simply make an appointment for treatment where-ever they want and go to the doctor when they need to go. Veterans will be able to get the care they deserve and were promised without all the bullshit.
Small and medium size businesses will no longer have to be concerned with trying to pay for benefits or offer them. Therefore, they will be more profitable. Large corporations, such as American auto makers might not be forced out of business. All business would become more profitable.
More than 50% of all family bankruptcy could be prevented. Infant mortality would become minimal, all children will be healthier. Even if the initial cost is outrageous (which is extremely doubtful considering the billions our government is already spending on subsidies), within one generation (about 18 years) all medical related costs would begin to decline rapidly. And, within two generations (about 30 years) medical costs will be greatly reduced and remain relatively flat thereafter.

President Obama has betrayed his own belief. Pryor to becoming the Democratic nominee, for his entire public service career, he repeatedly declared that "single-payer is the only way to go." Now that a brother is in the White House, has been permitted to join the ranks of pseudo-aristocrats among the elite minority faction ruling class he is in subjugation to money and power. He is doing everything in his power to protect and enhance the profit, power, and position of his fellow elites at the expense of every common American citizen. He, and his kind must be stopped. We, the people, gave him the power he has, we endowed him with all the authority he now wields, we permitted him to rise to the top. And WE CAN TAKE IT AWAY.

Please start telling everyone to email, write, call their Representatives and Senators. Tell them to email, write and call the White House. After you have gone to www.singlepayeraction.org and signed up, tell them to do it. If I do not act now, if you do not act now, if we all do not demand that everybody should be provided free health care for life and do it now, then this opportunity will be wasted and we will all remain sick and poor. God Damn It! Do something NOW!
Until next time, Give Peace a Chance.
James B. Tinsley, B.A.

HEALTH CARE SUMMIT-BANKRUPTCY-HEALTH CARE COST

2009-03-04T11:57:00.006-06:00

4 February 2009

Citizens arise! Stand up! Realize the tremendous overwhelming power that we possess. Take to heart the words of Thomas Paine that " the rich are slaves to power and money; the rest of us are a slave to the rich." (paraphrase)

President Obama is trying. He is saying many of the right things. By "right," I mean that he talks the talk of the people, of the progressive. But, his actions continue to favor the status quo and the elite minority faction ruling class.

Let us consider the issue of health care for example. President Obama talks quite sincerely about radically altering our current health care system, of seeking "universal" coverage, of lowering costs and making it better for all. He absolutely knows and understands that this aspect of American life is out of control, that is is literally killing us. Our president acknowledges that the outrageous cost of health care is an unbearable burden on business, that it sends thousands of individuals and families into bankruptcy every year. Yet, he, and most of the people around him, continue to talk about change in terms of "insurance."

The care of our health is not, and should not be considered as a matter of insurance. Why do I say this? Let me ask you, "What is insurance?" "What is its purpose?""Why do we buy insurance for our vehicles, our boats, our personal property, our houses and our life?"

Insurance is a bet based on risk. Insurance is a way to hedge against an unknown unforeseen unexpected event or circumstance. Vehicles can be involved in accidents, boats can be wrecked by storm, personal property can be stolen or damaged, a house can be destroyed by fire, tornado or termites. One's life can be ended suddenly at any moment. However, such things are only a risk, not a certainty. For these type of occurrences insurance serves an acceptable function and has a valid purpose.

In other words, for all these and other such things insurance can be a wise purchase or investment to offset the unknown unfortunate risk inherent to the nature of life. It can prevent complete financial ruin, ease the pain and suffering related to an accident, or provide the means to continue in the event of a tragic sudden loss of life. When it is attached to chance or possibility determined by risk insurance can be a good bet that is beneficial to all concerned. But, with human health there is no chance or possibility and the element of risk does not exist in the same way or to the same extent.

Micro-organisms, bacteria, virus, plants, trees, animals, ecosystems, and the human body all require proper care, conditions, and circumstances. Relatively speaking all organic natural life depends on a specific and near perfect environment to be born, develop, grow and reach maturity. All living things a subjected to countless brutish obstacles and forces within nature. Consider the innumerable miscarriages that occur everyday in women that become pregnant, or the flowers, fruits, and vegetables planted that fail to take hold and grow.

My point is that all living things demand constant attention and care to become and remain viable, to develop and reach maturity. Even after reaching maturity they require constant regular maintenance. This is an undeniable inarguable fact. With respect to living things, especially human life, there is no insurable risk, chance, or possibility; something can and ultimately will go wrong. Regardless whether a person is fortunate enough to be born with excellent health, to have an accident free exceptionally healthy childhood, to reach maturity and middle-age with a strong body and mind. Such a person cannot avoid the eventual inevitability of old age sickness and decline. It is in this regard that I say there is no chance, no possibility, no risk. I feel confident stating that no human being has ever lived from conception to coffin in perfect health without any physical harm, illness, injury or accident.

Therefore, the idea or concept of "insurance" as it relates to human health is a fallacy. It is a lie and a fraud. It is contrary to all reason, all logic, all evidence. One cannot in any way be "insured" against that which is known, natural, and unavoidable.

As long as President Obama and the so-called "experts" continue thinking, speaking, and acting based upon a premise of "insurance" there will not be any substantive change to our system or the cost of health care. The wealthy will stay healthy while the rest of us get poorer and sicker.

Health insurance companies and so-called "providers" such as HMO's are nothing more than government sanctioned fraud that carry out legalized theft. They do not provide any part of health care, nor do they insure us against the unavoidable ravages of time and old age. In so far as the definition and purpose of insurance these things are not insurable.

By associating the care of our health with the capitalist profit business model of "insurance" we are making money more important than people. We are allowing profit to be more valuable than human beings. Permitting health insurance companies and the like to continue existing and operating in America is immoral. If President Obama and our leaders insist on supporting self proclaimed health insurance providers to go on stealing our money, wasting our time and our resources this is sufficient cause for Revolution. We, the people, must force our leaders to protect our right as citizens, our human right to be healthy.

There is near unanimous agreement that our present health care paradigm is wrong, that it needs to be changed. In the United States our health care is reactive. In other words, health care in America generally only happens in response to symptoms, to sickness, to emergency. Our health care is not designed and constructed to prevent or cure, but to treat or control. It is built upon the idea of making money.

In order for all citizens to have the best opportunity, the greatest possibility for a truly vigorous healthy life we must completely change the premise and paradigm upon which the system is built and functions. Our government is legally bound by our United States Constitution to "establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty" for all citizens. This is not some pie-in-the-sky wish, or abstract desire. This is the legally binding obligation of our federal government.

So, I say again, Citizens arise, stand up! Do not compromise, do not accept promises or excuses. Our leaders and our government are not above our law or our Constitution. We are not their slaves. Our government is just that, OUR GOVERNMENT. Our leaders serve at our pleasure, they work for us. President Obama, every member of his administration, every Representative, every Senator, every judge, every Justice, every police person and military person is there to serve and protect every citizen of the United States of America. They all work for us. But unless we exert our power and force them to do what we demand, to serve our needs, to act on our behalf neither our leaders, nor our federal government will do it.

Next time I will demonstrate that providing free health care to all citizens is practical, possible and exactly the right thing to do. Until then please Give Peace a Chance.
James B. Tinsley, B.A.

INAUGURATION SPEECH-MID-EAST ENVOY-BAN ON TORTURE-SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE

2009-01-25T15:51:00.002-06:00

25 January 2009

I am feeling extraordinarily radical, so please bear with me. First, some context.

Last fall I joined Daily Kos hoping to contribute to their partisan Democratic Party discussion. I truly wanted to play devil's advocate and stimulate some lively interaction and possibly promote my blog, Shift of Power.

As it turns out I only made three or four diary entries. I realized very quickly that not all, but certainly the vast majority of DKOS participants are historically retarded and naive to the point of extreme credulity. They are venomous and arrogant. I suspect the reason for this is that they are mostly young middle and upper middle-class Caucasians below the age of thirty-five. But I digress.

The point of my DKOS experience is the diary entries. I attempted to employ sarcastic humor in all my writing. DKOS readers were not amused. In my first diary I claimed and offered evidence the BARACK OBAMA IS A LIAR; in my second I claimed and offered proof that OBAMA IS A PHONY, A GREAT BIG PHONY, and in my third diary I stated that it appeared that OBAMA DONS KNEE PADS in order to be comfortable while performing the Lewinsky Love Massage upon the elite minority ruling donor class, and select members of the pseudo-aristocratic Status Quo. I went on to say that Obama had successfully become the perfect Democratic Party whore. I then offered evidence to support my statement and ended by asking a series of questions regarding some of the candidate's most recent actions and statements. This was in mid-September when the bottom began falling away from under our economy during the 700 billion dollar Wall Street rescue.

I received many many responses to each of my entries. Interestingly, the evidence I presented was never challenged and not one of the questions raised was answered. Out of several thousands responses there was no serious issue-oriented comment. I am beginning to think that I now understand why.

From 4 November 2008 through his inauguration 20 January 2009, and since, President Obama continues to reinforce my initial conclusion. At the end of his first very active and busy week our President has said nothing, nor taken any action or signed any order that substantively demonstrates that he is anything other than a liar, a phony, and a perfect Democratic Party whore. I stand by my original assessment of the man.

Now, based on what I have said thus far, what I am going to say next may surprise you. In every DKOS diary entry, and every time I have written about Barack Obama here or elsewhere, I have always supported his rhetoric. I always hoped he would get the nomination, was convinced he would win, and was deeply moved when he did win. Watching the inauguration was emotional and inspiring; and when he took the oath of office (ignoring that Roberts screwed it up) it brought tears to my eyes.

Our nation has done something exceptional. I strongly believe that we, as a people, are greatly enhanced by our act of freely electing a person of color to be our chief executive. I am glad and proud that Barack Obama is our president. Now, he must unequivocally prove his character and worth. He must be a leader and actualize his self-declared values, beliefs, ideas and plans. He must clearly and overtly demonstrate that he is NOT a liar, a phony, or a Democratic Party whore.

And, we must make him. Every citizen needs to become or stay involved. Every citizen needs to stay on Obama's ass like a bad headache and force him to do only what is best for all citizens. We, the average people, have to push President Obama to be a real leader for all the people. He has to keep us well informed, answer our questions, be honest, and most of all he must feel free to tell us who in Congress is preventing the will of the people from being done. If our president will be honest and open with us then we will direct the full force of our pressure and turn our wrath upon anyone in the House of Representatives or Senate that stands in our way. This is called Revolution.

Obama and his campaign started this Revolution and now we must see it through. When I call for Revolution I do not mean violence, killing, and bombings; nor do I mean destruction or chaos. I am fomenting a Revolution of political philosophy, of ideas about the true purpose and function of government, its conduct and activities. I am convinced that the weapons and ammunition for a truly radical Revolution were written into the United States Constitution by the framers. If citizens accept their responsibility and exercise their power to the fullest extent the only way to stop us will be to kill us, and they cannot kill all of us. They may have the guns, but we have the numbers.

There seems to be a general consensus that if we really want change, if we really do want President Obama to succeed, then he will have to be supported and pushed hard from the "bottom." That's us, common people, average working people, the working poor and those in poverty. We also need substantial help from those in the middle-class, as well as the technical and management class. This idea that Obama's success can only happen if there is continual and relentless pressure from the "bottom" is prevalent among a wide variety of informed respectable observers, especially on the liberal left and among progressives. Many conservatives agree.

This is what I mean by Revolution. We, the people must make demands, stand our ground, make no compromise. This is our nation, we the common people are the true source of all power, all wealth, and all the labor that creates it. There are millions more regular people than there are within the elite minority faction ruling class. The truth is without us the powerful and the super wealthy would have nothing.

Revolution is the word. Congress and Obama are the targets. It is the right time to overthrow our bad government and institute a new more effective one. Let us unite, organize, and move en mass to make our nation and President Obama the greatest and most successful in history by doing what is right and best for human progress, prosperity, and happiness by guaranteeing absolutely equal status, privileges, and rights for every citizen.

Until next time, Give Peace a chance.
James B. Tinsley, B.A.

OBAMA INAUGURATION-MARTIN LUTHER KING-STIMULUS PACKAGE-ISRAEL-GAZA

2009-01-18T10:49:00.008-06:00

19 January 2009

Hello, again. I have greatly missed my relatively regular communication with readers. When I last posted in mid-November I had no idea it would take until mid-January 2009 to return. I wanted to write, thought frequently about writing, kept intending to write, but to no avail. I was through the looking glass trying to embrace the chaos of reality. My absence and neglect was unexpected and unavoidable.

I truly hope that all who read this had at least some joy and received some memorable benefit in the course of the holiday season just past. I hope that most are well and have, so far, been able to escape the most devastating effects of our nation's relentless economic decline. And, finally, it is my most sincere wish that those who read Shift of Power will think about and will talk with others about the need to break with the past. The United States, citizens and government, must seize the moment and abandon failed systems, processes, and political philosophies. We must create a new government, a new system with a new process that is based upon a new and genuinely different political philosophy.

We must act now! At this point in the new year, at this moment in history, we, the people, are entering a period with much that is new. We are in a new year, we have an historic new president, a new congress, new majority, new hope and new opportunity with tremendous POTENTIAL for substantial change and growth. Conversely, our citizens and nation are also precariously perched on the so-called "tipping-point" regarding many issues on many fronts. The future of our country, our society, and our culture is firmly within our collective grasp.

Every day every week from one year to the next, evidence demonstrating the inexorable deterioration and decline of the United States continues to mount. As it does, I am convinced beyond a reasonable doubt the only best hope is government exclusively devoted to human needs along with equal status, privileges, and rights for ALL citizens by ethical conduct. This means that our nation and citizens will be required to stand up and finish the Revolution inspired and organized by Barack Obama. We have to demand that President Obama REFUSE to compromise our health care and education; and we must make him make congress insist that all citizens, all corporations, all who are economically prosperous, including religious and so-called non-profit institutions, pay an equal share of taxes through Equal Taxation. All citizens must be willing to insist upon themselves and their fellow Americans to willingly give a period of service to America.

If the United States is to be the nation of life, liberty, justice, and equality. If we, the people, are truly the sole source from which our government derives it's just power. If our leaders and system of government is honestly the benefactor of, and dependent upon, the consent of the governed. If any of these things are true, and if the United States Constitution is the supreme law of the land, then it is not only our responsibility it is our duty, our obligation, and our right to overthrow a bad government.

As United States citizens we do not have a choice. We are required to rid ourselves and our posterity of ineffective leaders and failed policies in order to institute a better more responsive system of government. The election of Barack Obama is only the first small act toward this end. Do not forget that he, and the new majority in congress, are DEMOCRATS. They owe many favors to many interests and, more than anything, their overriding desire is maintaining their power and position. Political parties will not and cannot significantly change the structure or direction of America. Only the American people have the ability and power to do that. So, unless enough of the people are willing to force President Obama and the new congress to work for, legislate for, and create policy for people instead of property, profit, power, and position this momentary condition of hope and national unity will pass without the desperately needed change we voted for and were promised.

Throughout 2009, and for the remainder of my lifetime, I will redouble my effort and continue striving to explain a new system and process of government, Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government. It is a political philosophy that will allow us to do what has never been done, or even honestly attempted in the history of human civilization. I will endeavor to demonstrate the fundamental truth and benefit of embracing and adopting Humanistic Equalism as the foundation and basis for a new system and process of government.

Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government provides the means for a system and process wherein human progress, prosperity, and happiness are the primary concern and reason for government to exist. It contains the philosophical building blocks for a system and process that puts in place and guarantees absolutely equal status, privileges, and rights for EVERY citizen. And, Humanistic Equalism will lead to unqualified ethical conduct within and by every aspect of our federal government.

I have no doubt in my mind or heart that, as of this moment in history with respect to the development of human intellect and the advance of civilization, Humanism and absolutely equal status, privileges, and rights for all citizens is the best and most obvious path. In the history of human civilization it has never been done and, so far, all systems of government have failed; all nations, all empires have fallen. Our nation, our "empire" is decaying rapidly and new ones are on the horizon. It is a natural fact that everything eventually dies, but the question Americans must answer is, "Is it time for the United States of America to die?"

There is, and can be, no argument that our country has been, and is currently in a state of rapid decay, that our eventual decline and death is accelerating. To arrest this process, to revitalize and reinvigorate our entire country will only become a real possibility when we, the people, and our institutions of government make human progress, prosperity, and happiness with absolutely equal status, privileges, and rights for all citizens through ethical conduct our primary aim and purpose.

I hope that readers will contribute to this discussion. I invite readers to make comments, to tell others about these ideas, to share this blog, and, most of all, to return soon for more. Till next time, Give Peace a chance.
James B. Tinsley, B. A.

TRANSITION-BIG 3 BAILOUT-LAME DUCK SESSION-DIVERSITY

2008-11-17T13:15:00.002-06:00

17 November 2008

RACE, RACISM,RACISTS

Irrespective of our electing the first president of color in the person of Barack Obama, the United States of America has been and is the most consistently racist society in modern history. Our collective racism goes beyond Black and White. It extends to so-called "immigrants" and "illegal aliens." And, though it is only slightly different because the bigotry and discrimination is directed at a class of citizen, the treatment of homosexuals is essentially another manifestation of racism in America. Racism and racist behavior will not end or even necessarily diminish as a result of the election of Barack Obama.

In order to clearly understand how adopting Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government as the underlying philosophical foundation for a new government will effect issues of race, immigration, bigotry and discrimination it is necessary to consider their source and purpose. By source I mean, where do these ideas originate; by purpose I mean why are these ideas employed, embellished, and perpetuated, by whom and for what benefit. Simply stated, the source is Christian orthodoxy and the purpose is to divide, conquer, and control.

As to the source, Christian orthodoxy. Admittedly there has been, and still are, many sincere and good self-proclaimed Christian believers, and various worthwhile organizations and groups affiliated with Christian denominations. This number, however, is a relatively small percentage when compared to the total number of so-called Christian believers. The point is that, yes, there are some Christians that have always tried to do the Human thing but, there have always been many more that do exactly as they believe the Bible commands them to do.

Throughout its history the Bible has been, and still is used to rationalize, justify, support and uphold the most cruel and inhumane treatment and conduct by humans upon others. Though there may be some argument on this point it cannot be denied. Christianity was adopted by "White" people and is still considered to be the "White man's religion." This fact alone is ample proof that Christian orthodoxy is the original source of the ideas, attitudes, and actions associated with race, racism, bigotry and discrimination.

I should state that, although in the United States Christian orthodoxy is the key source race, racism, bigotry and discrimination is common to and cultivated by all developed religions. In other words, racism is a product of all religion. Consequently, the degree of racist expression and conduct within a given society will will be directly proportionate to the extent that a society's primary religion influences it's government.

What is the purpose of racism, bigotry, and discrimination? What does racism achieve, and who benefits?

From its inception the primary purpose of racism and racist behavior has been to create the " other" - the "them" of "us and them." Once this potential threat to the well-being of the majority, or status quo, is in place the general population can then be further subdivided. By dividing the citizens into smaller factions, then playing them off each other, an elite ruling minority faction exerts authority. It is well known and well understood that a most effective means to quiet dissent, quash rebellion, and control the mass of citizens is to keep them divided and agitated against each other. The more divisions that can be created the easier to manipulate the individual factions.

When this has been accomplished and a nation's population is divided against itself that nation has, for all intents and purposes, been conquered. The obvious next step is to control that which has been conquered. Racism, bigotry, discrimination and racist conduct sanctioned or ignored by government has proven to be entirely sufficient to effect control and oppression. I am not revealing anything new, or that is not well known by most people and thoroughly understood by the ruling class.

Division and fear have been, and continue to be, the moving principles of every government that has existed in human history- including the United States of America. The premise of every government in human history has been a variety of things. Such as, absolute power, expansion, wealth, resources, and God to name a few. There has never been a notable system of government that existed solely for the progress. prosperity, and happiness of all citizens. There has never been a government in human history that had as its moving principle absolutely equal status, privileges, and rights for all citizens.

Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government establishes a philosophical foundation for just such a government. Humanistic Equalism defines and describes a system and process by which such a government can be instituted and maintained. With the system and process provided by Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government racism, racist behavior, bigotry and discrimination would be eliminated with regard to our federal government. In other words, all citizens recognized by our United States Constitution would be given and treated with absolutely equal status, privileges, and rights by the United States Government.

In concluding this discussion of race, racism, and racist behavior- what this is, where it came from, why it is used, and who benefits. I wish to make clear that I do firmly believe that our election of Barack Obama is both in act, and in fact, a tremendous and severe blow to the elite minority faction ruling status quo. I am also just as firmly convinced that for Barack Obama to do what his supporters believe that they elected him to do will require constant and unbearable pressure from average American citizens. In other words, unless we, the people, make Obama, make the House and Senate act differently- make the changes- they will not. Obama's campaign of change rests entirely with us.

This land is your land, this land is my land...Until next time, Give peace a chance.

James B. Tinsley, B.A.

RALPH NADER-TAX AND SPEND LIBERAL-BATTLE GROUND STATES-INDEPENDENT VOTERS

2008-11-01T12:12:00.007-05:00

1 November 2008

In less than 72 hours on 4 November 2008 qualified citizens will have an opportunity to participate in the act that defines democracy. Americans will essentially vote for one of the two ruling parties candidates. Some that cannot bring themselves to vote for the "lesser of two evils" will vote for a third party candidate. We are told that every election is important, that every vote counts and that it is our duty. In the United States we cast our votes and hope that among those we elect there is someone with the answer, someone that can and will bring about real and lasting change. That hope is especially strong this year.

The election of 2008 is in fact truly special and historic. Yet, in spite of this, in spite of the overwhelming and undeniable desire among the majority of citizens for substantial even radical change of direction and priorities, purpose and policies our history and the evidence suggests that all our hope is futile. I submit that neither Democrats nor Republicans are willing or capable of resolving America's problems including the course of its decline. Our only genuine hope lies with people, not political parties.

The key element that makes this election potentially the most historic in our nation's history is race. It is very likely, and I believe almost certain that we will elect a man of color as our next president. Though Barack Obama is the product of a Caucasian woman and an African man, he is considered and has presented himself as the first "African-American" nominated by one of the ruling political parties. It is only fitting that I address the issue of race as it now is and how Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy of Ethical Government can eliminate the negative connotation of race within our racist nation.

I must start by admitting that discussing this topic is difficult for me. Though not for the reasons that may first come to mind. Ironically, the two biggest reasons would, at first glance, seem to be directly contrary to one another. The first most basic explanation as to why the racial point is perplexing for me is that I forget about it. I know that race and its product of racism is, quite frankly, bullshit!

Race, as we associate and define it today, is a malicious artificial construct . It is used as a means of dividing, manipulating, and dominating our citizens and policy. Because I have known this for years I do not play "skin-games."

For example, using the term "black" exclusively in relation to people of African heritage, and the term "white" exclusively in relation to Anglos and Europeans. I do not know the experience of anyone reading this but, although I do know some "black" people, I do not know any "white" people. I have seen pictures of people born with Albinism, but they are rare and certainly not the norm.

The vast overwhelming majority of human beings are neither black, nor white. Nearly all human beings are some different shade of brown –from pale beige to blue-black. Any time I fill out a form that inquires about race, I always check the "other" box and write in Caucasian; ‘cause I ain’t white.

I am, as they say, colorblind. When I observe another person I do not recognize any color. I see a human being first, then a male or female being. Any further refinement of my perception of this person will be determined by their actions and how they define themselves. In short, because there is only one species of human beings, race is irrelevant and immaterial.

The second reason it is difficult for me to engage the topic of race is the fact that race and racism distorts everything in America. This undeniable fact means that it cannot be ignored or tolerated. Race and diversity is at the core of our nation’s history. It is at once our greatest asset and the biggest source of national shame.

There is not a country in world history in which race and racism has been more important, for so long a time, as the United States. So, this topic is difficult for me because on a personal level I reject it. I do not acknowledge or empower it in any way. Yet, because race is so entangled with everything that happens in the United States. Because race and racism is in our nation's DNA, so to speak, it must be confronted. Unless there is a shift of power in the United States we will continue to be victimized by our own ignorance. My objective is to demonstrate that Humanistic Equalism government can and will redefine race and racism with regard to bureaucracy and its function.

Slavery has always existed in some form and still exists in our country and throughout the world. Slavery was not always connected to or associated with race or skin color. Slavery was an important element of exploration and colonial expansion beginning in the late 1400’s. By the mid-1600’s Africans were the hottest item and biggest seller on the slave market. Wealthy slave traders and their pious peers were quick to point out that Africans are sub-human heathens and Christian duty mandated that their souls should be saved.

The Bible and the Christian God dictated that the best way to save the black African and the American savage, to please the Lord, was to steal babes suckling at their mother’s breast, separate entire families, and then sell these godless savages to good Christians to be shackled, saved and subjected to subservience and abuse for the rest of their lives. Because of their obvious natural inferiority, apparent by their physical differences, Africans have a God-given suitability for slavery. At least that was, and in many cases still is the primary justification for bigotry and racism.

Physical features of different groups became the markers or symbols justifying their low position on the scale of social systems. Subsequent race ideology promoted the belief that the social, spiritual, moral, and intellectual inequality of different groups was, like other traits, natural, innate, inherited, and unalterable. This facilitated the creation of the only slave system in the world that became exclusively racial.
However, perpetual servitude was limited to Africans and their descendants. This means that blacks will remain at the bottom of the social hierarchy forever. Slavery and racism were sanctified by God and Christian creed then legitimized by our United States Constitution.

Segregating black Africans and native Americans from whites and outlawing marriage between whites and people of color ensured that the color of one's skin, the visible physical differences are the key indicator of unequal social status. Race as we know and define it today has, from its inception, been about separateness and inequality. The inferior status indicated by race was eventually applied to free blacks and others. Thus the autonomous new mechanism of social differentiation went beyond slavery and has persisted as the primary form of social and class identity.

The status quo and elite minority ruling faction depend on the division that race and racism produce to help them stay in power and control the average citizen. This condition of manipulation and oppression will continue to bring and keep our nation in shame unless it is stopped. And, even though many ignorant individuals in our society, especially orthodox Christians and fundamentalists, will always be bigoted against other races our government must not. We, the people, must revolt and demand a new system and process of government. A government of Humanistic Equalism that acts to guarantee absolutely equal status, privileges, and rights to every citizen treating none as special or different. Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government is the best hope we have of creating a system and process of government capable of achieving this standard.

Next time I will conclude this discussion of race. Regardless of the fact that nothing substantial or truly radical will change as a result of this election, please please go out and vote. Exercise your right, live up to your responsibility, and fulfil your obligation as a citizen of the United States. Until we meet again, Give Peace a chance.
James B. Tinsley, B.A.

POVERTY-POOR PEOPLE-WORKING POOR-WELFARE

2008-10-15T16:00:00.004-05:00

15 October 2008

POVERTY: Tool of Oppression, Fruit of Dispassion

I am joining today with bloggers throughout the United States and around the world to address the issue of Poverty. This coordinated day of blog-posting is sponsored by Blogger's Unite.

Poverty-the idea of it, the concept and understanding of it, is generally thought to be rather straightforward and obvious. But I believe that poverty is multi-dimensional and much more complicated. I am quite certain that many people will devote more than enough space exploring economic inequities, the evils of capitalism, and a plethora of perfectly valid causes and reasons for poverty. Some people will attempt to demonstrate the correctness of their argument mathematically with numbers and statistics. These are all acceptable.

I will pursue a different tack. I have concluded that discussions and arguments such as those just noted are exactly what the purveyors of poverty wish us to focus on. They are a diversion and address only the symptoms and evidence that the condition of poverty exists. That is, they only prove the reality of poverty.

Observation and experience have led me to conclude something different. Poverty is not a product of nature. Poverty is an exclusive product created by some human beings to subjugate and oppress other human beings. Poverty is a human-made artificial construct, a tool or machine that enables a wealthy elite minority faction to exert control and maintain their position of power over average and common citizens.Poverty is manufactured from cupidity, rapine, and creed.

Cupidity is the unrestrained greed, especially for wealth or money. Rapine is unrestrained plundering of rights and property. Creed, that is to say religious orthodoxy, whether it is Christianity, Islam, Judaism or any religion is the fundamental means of subjugation. All religious orthodoxy is predicated on submission. Submission to a higher power. Religious orthodoxy provides the shackles and chains used by the elite ruling class that creates and institutes systems of government.

Religious dogma, doctrine and creed always serves in conjunction with the wealthiest and most powerful interests, regardless of the culture or society, to protect and perpetuate the Status Quo. Religious dogma, doctrine and creed are the lowest common denominator among people and are the most effective shortest route to controlling the greatest number. Both government and religion need and use poverty. In other words, poverty is a beneficial and necessary tool employed by government and religious authority. Poverty enhances the power of government.

Poverty breeds hopelessness, despair, and cruelty. Poverty is demoralizing, emotionally debilitating, and physically abusive. Poverty fosters fear, anger and division. Poverty denies liberty and demands subservience. Poverty is the betrayal of humanity. Poverty is the animalistic and savage expression of the powerful over the weak, the large over the small. Poverty is the opposite of equality.

There are many actions we can all take to combat poverty. There are various organizations we can support and contribute to that work tirelessly to alleviate poverty. There are lots of things we should do regarding the real and corrosive condition of poverty. In the end, however, I believe that absolutely equal status, privileges, and rights for EVERY citizen will prove to be the most natural and effective means to eliminate the circumstances that give rise to and perpetuate poverty.

Therefore, to bring an end to the substantive experience, the ongoing and excruciating human suffering of poverty we, the people, must rise up, exercise the full amount of our power, and demand that all government protect people before profit and property, before position and power. We must cause a shift of power that removes bad and corrupt government. And without compromise we, the governed, the source of all power, must exorcise and prohibit the entanglement of religion and government to institute new systems of government that treat all citizens, all people everywhere, with absolutely equal status, privileges, and rights. This is a government of Humanistic Equalism.

Next time I will examine Race and the issue of difference and how Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government offers a viable and practicable solution. Until then, Give Peace a chance.

James B. Tinsley, B.A.

NATIONALIZE-COMMERCIAL PAPER-FROZEN CREDIT-NEGATIVE ADS

2008-10-10T06:34:00.005-05:00

10 October 2008

"Only a crisis--real or perceived--produces real change. When that crisis occurs, the actions that are taken depend on the ideas that are lying around. That, I believe, is our basic function: to develop alternatives to existing policies, to keep them alive and available until the politically impossible becomes politically inevitable."
(Words of the late economist Milton Friedman taken from The Shock Doctrine: The Rise of Disaster Capitalism, by Naomi Klein.)

Milton Friedman also said that "economic policies have consequences." I submit that history will eventually prove Milton Friedman and his so-called "free-market" or "fundamentalist" capitalism was the worlds most prolific and deadly terrorist in the latter half of the 20th century and the beginning of the 21st century. Friedman and his economic terrorist group, trained at the University of Chicago, have three trademark demands that have caused more suffering, conflict and death than any known terrorist in modern history.

These demands are: privatization, government deregulation, and deep cuts to social spending. Sounds familiar doesn't it? It should, our current economic impotence and devastation is the result of almost forty years of applied Friedman economics. These ideas are also intimately and directly connected to our nation's foreign policy. Contrary to myth and popular belief the United States economic structure and policy have never been genuinely "free."

From the the time of our Constitutional Convention, since the United States Constitution was ratified and the first Congress called to order; throughout the course of our nation's history the economic policy and all that flows from it have been designed and implemented to benefit the wealthy elite minority faction. Everything about our country and government with regard to the accumulation of wealth and power has, and is, done to favor those that have the most. This fact is indisputable.

We, the people, have only one choice to make. We must stand up, stand together, and carry out a second Revolution in the name of citizens and absolute equality. It is the obligation and responsibility of our citizenship. It is not only our right but it is our duty to rise up and remove our bad government, to cause a shift of power. With our Constitution in tact, using the means it provides, citizens must institute a new government based on the system and process of Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government.

The system and process arising from Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government promotes and protects the value and dignity of citizens. Wealth, profit, position, and power are not the primary and overriding objective. Humanistic Equalism economic policy requires that all capitalist enterprise succeed or fail on its own merit and ability. Humanistic Equalism makes government a tool and a means for citizens benefit and, while vigorously encouraging entrepreneurship and the creation of wealth, Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government does not act or function as the machinery of perverted American capitalism’s exploitation and greed.

The tax code will no longer be up for sale to the highest bidder. All business, public or private, charitable or philanthropic, religious or political; all business that owes taxes will pay taxes. Like all citizens, they will pay taxes for the privileges, and rights guaranteed by our Constitution; they will pay taxes for the opportunity and freedom to make as much money as can be made. Nothing in life is free including American citizenship and wealth.

With government based on Humanistic Equalism our civil and criminal code will no longer be for sale. Justice will no longer be a high priced commodity available only to the wealthy, powerful, and well connected. The executive branch of government will be taken off the auction block; while professional lobbyists, unscrupulous tax lawyers, and accountants, along with so-called health care insurance providers will all have to seek a new line of work. Because the system and process of Humanistic Equalism will eliminate any need for such vermin.

Because Humanistic Equalism forbids the interference of government into the affairs of free market enterprise, multi-national corporations and big business financiers that wish to protect operations located in other countries, or secure natural resources and open new markets will have to spend their own money, energy, and blood. America's military and foreign policy will no longer be for lease. The use of police, National Guard, or the United States military to oppress the needs and demands of labor or to overthrow uncooperative foreign governments to enhance corporate power and profit will no longer be an option.

Every citizen private and corporate will have absolutely equal status, privileges, and rights in regard and relation to our federal government. Yes, I know that most people read these things and immediately think, "This guy is either smoking something or living in fantasy land." The truth is, because that is exactly what most people will say is evidence and undeniable proof that we have been completely subjugated to defend and protect the status quo and elite minority faction; the wealthy pseudo-aristocracy that rules our country and controls every aspect of our lives. The ideas of Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government are just as fantastic and impossible as the idea of independence was to the subjugated colonists that carried out our first Revolution. With one major exception, Christianity and religion are truly divorced from government and relegated to the free market of ideas and personal choice.

Humanistic Equalism is a system and process of humanity not money or "manifest destiny." As such, it postulates that if people are the primary focus and concern of bureaucracy, if our citizens, as well as governments of other nations, are treated with equality, respect, dignity, and honesty then there will be no reason for economic warfare or violence of any kind. The economic policies and machinery of Humanistic Equalism government will have a profound life-altering effect on all citizens. Especially average common working people and the traditionally poor.

The status quo approach to economics, while wildly effective and beneficial for an elite minority faction, is cruel, inhumane, and degrading to the overwhelming majority of common citizens. It generates huge profit and wealth for the few at the expense of the many. I believe it should be evident that America and its citizens will be tremendously and positively affected by government and economic policy emanating from the philosophy and principles of Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government.

This concludes my initial in-depth examination regarding our traditional understanding and view of economics and how it will change with the implementation of a new government of Humanistic Equalism. Next, on 15 October 2008, I will join tens-of-thousands of bloggers from around the world to discuss the ever-widening and thoroughly demoralizing issue of poverty. I sincerely hope that you will think about the concepts and possibilities expressed here and contained within Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government. Until next time, Give Peace a chance.
James B. Tinsley, B.A.

BIDEN-PALIN DEBATE-ECONOMIC RESCUE-PAUL NEWMAN-UNEMPLOYMENT

2008-10-03T09:41:00.005-05:00

3 October 2008

Although the United States is celebrated as and thought to be the bastion of so-called "free market" capitalism, it should be glaringly obvious to anyone that does not live in a cave that it is not. Our current fear-driven financial and economic crises is just the most recent example of how our federal government is, and has been created and run to benefit the wealthy elite minority faction.

From its inception, the federal government of the United States of America has protected property and rights of the rich first, and common citizens sometime later, if at all. In his penultimate work, The Wealth of Nations, the godfather of American economic practices, Adam Smith, writes candidly on the class character of governments:

"Laws and government may be considered in this and indeed in every case as a combination of the rich to oppress the poor, and preserve to themselves the inequality of the goods which would otherwise be soon destroyed by the attacks of the poor, who if not hindered by the government would soon reduce the others to an equality with themselves by open violence."

At about the same time (the late 18th century), French philosopher Jean Jacques Rousseau wrote about how government and laws came to exist. In his book, Discourse on the Origin of Inequality, Rousseau surmised that:

"Society and laws which gave new fetters to the weak and new forces to the rich, irretrievably destroyed natural liberty, established forever the law of property and of inequality, changed adroit usurpation into irrevocable right, and for the profit of a few ambitious men henceforth subjected the entire human race to labor, servitude, and misery."

In these two quotations it is easy to recognize the philosophy and foundation of our present economic status quo. These two statements epitomize exactly what our government through its policies, and many of our citizens by unconditionally supporting the status quo, are eager to spend trillions of dollars and countless numbers of lives to defend. I am fond of saying, "Stupidity strikes someone in America every two minutes!"

In order to redefine and reform America’s economic paradigm and our perverted application of capitalism it is necessary to close, ignore, and abandon the failed status quo exemplar. Our only best hope is in the system and process of Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government of common sense, by common people, for common good instituted through a second American’s Revolution and a successful shift of power. How can this be accomplished?

First and most importantly by using our Constitution not violence to throw out bad government. Citizens must revolt and exercise their full power to establish and control a new one. Living people are inherently more valuable than property, profit, power, and position. Humanistic Equalism is the only means by which this kind of administrative system and process is currently possible.

Unlike anything in the past, or that is known today, Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical
Government arises from an assumption that human beings are the source from which all life derives its value. In other words, without human beings nothing on this planet or in the entire universe would have any value whatsoever. It is only through human cognizance and intellectual development that nature acquires its meaning, purpose, and value. All that the human species is, and all that it is not, is the effect and consequence of human reasoning, human labor and human intellectual progress – or lack of it. No God no religion no creed or dogma has ever advanced civilization or the human condition.

If one starts with the presumption that human life, that is, citizens, are paramount and proceeds from there to organize government with all its attending institutions, powers, and authority it will lead to an entirely different set of economic objectives. As it stands now, government economic policy is crafted and carried out to protect the status quo minority faction and complete control by the ruling elite minority faction. The economic game has been, and is rigged from the get-go against average citizens. Profit and property rights take precedent over human and civil rights.

Capitalists and corporatists are completely dependent upon our United States government to remain viable and profitable. If business and corporate interests could not buy our tax code, use federal power and authority to enforce rules and regulations to their advantage a great portion would fail. This is the inequality of the status quo. It is free market feudalism, economic terrorism and indentured servitude sanctioned and perpetrated by our pseudo-aristocratic semi-elected representatives. There is, at this time, only one way to fix this oppressive regime and practice.

Next time I will conclude this initial look at economics and how our economic paradigm will change with implementation of Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government. As congress prepares to subject average citizens, the poor, and those citizens living in poverty to even greater hardship I sincerely hope that readers will give some serious thought to the facts and issues, as well as the possibilities I have raised. On 15 October 2008 Bloggers Unite is sponsoring another "blog-in" for bloggers around the world to address the issue of POVERTY. An event that I will be participating in. Until we meet again Give Peace a chance.
James B. Tinsley, B.A.

PAULSEN PLAN-PRESIDENTIAL DEBATE-WASHINGTON MUTUAL-DODD-SHELBY

2008-09-26T13:35:00.005-05:00

26 September 2008

[Thomas] "Jefferson insisted that ‘every human mind feels pleasure in doing good to another,’ and therefore in the United States, ‘the care of human life and happiness, and not their destruction, is the first and only object of good government.’" (Larry J. Sabato, A More Perfect Constitution.)

America’s economic system is one of capitalism. What is ‘capitalism’? According to the American Heritage Dictionary (3rd edition), the general definition is an economic system in which the means of production and distribution are privately or corporately owned and development is proportionate to the accumulation and reinvestment of profits gained in the free market.

Adam Smith established the foundation of modern capitalism in his most notable work, The Wealth of Nations. Written in the same year British colonists living on the North American continent declared their independence, 1776. I believe and Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government vigorously promotes the idea that capitalism is a solid proven economic system, perhaps the best ever organized for a free democracy or representative democracy.

Contemporary American capitalism, however, is an abomination. It is a misshapen and unnatural application of capitalism principles and theory aimed at achieving improper and immoral objectives. At the beginning of the 21st century the driving force of United States economic practice is not "free market" capitalism, but instead, it is "financial" capitalism and "disaster capitalism". What does that mean?

The over-simplified answer is that in a true "free market" capitalist economy profit and wealth are created and accumulated through one’s merit, creativity, and ability. While in a "financial" capitalist economy, profit and wealth are generated and accumulated by speculation and manipulation. "Disaster" capitalism is a historically and relatively recent wild-west bastardization of the free market profit paradigm that exploits instability, terror, terrorism and the subsequent demand for increased ‘security’. It is brilliant really. Brilliant, vulgar, cruel, and quite possibly the pinnacle of cynicism.

In the case of a true "free market" capitalist economy government assumes a very limited role in regulation and oversight. In our current "financial" capitalist economy government only gets involved when there is egregious malfeasance or wide spread harm caused by excessive greed and obviously unscrupulous behavior by financial speculators. Some examples include insider trading, fraudulent accounting practices, and inappropriate manipulation of stock prices.

As for "disaster" capitalism, government policy and agencies directly promote conditions favorable to what author Naomi Klein in her most recent work, "Shock Doctrine: The Rise of Disaster Capitalism," aptly redefines as "the disaster industrial complex". For example the Iraq war and our current financial meltdown. It is when the people of a nation are thrown into a state of extreme fear and shock that government can then institute policy changes that ultimately usurp the power of the people and increase the power of the elite ruling minority faction.

I am not an economist and it is not my intention to delve into or try to explain economic theory and principles. I have no intention of rehashing old debates that are no longer pertinent or relevant. My aim is to establish that Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government economics is more like Adam Smith’s free market capitalism and is not, as many will claim, about the redistribution of wealth. Humanistic Equalism economic policy is quite simple.

Government establishes the parameters and clearly defines the terms, conditions and rules regarding the conduct of business and the market. Government defends the lives and conditions of American citizens first, and then public and private property. All government activities and functions with regard to the workings of free markets will be based on serving the interests and needs required to provide all citizens equal access, opportunity, health, and safety. In other words, the well-being and benefit of average citizens-the people-are considered more important than profit, property, power and position.

There are basically two principles underlying our nations so-called "conservative" political doctrine. First, the smallest sized government possible and very little, if any, interference or regulation by government. From the Founding Fathers through the Whigs of the 19th century to the contemporary Republican Party, less government and less regulation has been the mantra. The caveat is that whatever oversight, regulation and government involvement that is absolutely necessary must exist to support, promote, and insure "free" markets and capitalist profit.

Second, government and law must be organized in such manner that the rich can depend on it to protect their profit and property regardless of the effect on citizens. Why is it governments business to get involved beyond the rules and regulations of conducting business that apply to all in order to provide something extra for the wealthy elite? I will tell you why. Because the rich could not remain rich and the powerful could not remain powerful without government support and protection.

As we watch the current economic crisis unfold I will ask you to think about this: What our president, congress and presidential candidates are doing is exhibiting the actions and attitude of aristocracy. That is to say, while they continue to tell citizens that they need to act in order to protect "main street" their actions are designed to do nothing more than maintain the status quo. Or, as long as the rich are allowed to remain rich and the powerful are allowed to keep their power the rest of us will be protected.

I will delve deeper into the difference between what our so-called "leaders" are trying to preserve and how Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government economics will change our nation for the better next time. Until then Give Peace a chance.
James B. Tinsley, B.A.

WALL STREE BAILOUT- AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL GROUP (AIG)-YEMEN-RESOLUTION TRUST CORPORATION

2008-09-19T07:38:00.007-05:00

19 September 2008

Maintaining the status quo,that is, continuing the same actions based on flawed reasoning to achieve misguided ends, will only bring the same results we are experiencing today. Violence and war cannot resolve any issue, nor can they establish peace. The United States of America was born in blood, expanded by blood, industrialized and made wealthy with the blood of the poor, with that of slaves, women, immigrants and the weak. America’s traditional philosophy of government is the same as every empire that ever was. Consequently, the results have been, and will be, the same as that of empires past. As long as our government makes law and conducts policy that value’s property over citizens our future will be as violent and bloody and divided as our past. The cycle of momentary success followed by failure and violence will continue until the United States, as we now know it, is no more.

Many people argue with me about that statement, but they are wrong and the statement is true. Since becoming a legally established country in 1789 America has taken what it wanted by force. Our actions may be justified and rationalized, one can proclaim ‘manifest destiny’ and insist that what America has created, invented and given to the world far outweighs any of its minor indiscretions. Indeed, those protestations and claims might sustain that argument for a moment or two. However, if the quality of an action is determined by its consequences, I believe the historical and current evidence leaves no doubt that the status quo is a decisive failure. Is there any valid logic, reason or common sense in fighting so hard to keep doing something that always fails?

If the purpose of our government is to insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, and promote the general welfare, I ask, is our government doing it? Anyone that says yes, is, whether by nature, nurture or choice, cognitively disabled (retarded). Either that, or they are a bold-faced liar.

I ask, if our government is supposed to provide security to enable all citizens to pursue life, happiness, and property in a state of liberty, is it; has it ever done so? If one answers yes they must be brain dead, extremely wealthy, or they are a bold-faced liar.

Our government, the purveyor and symbol of the status quo, is incapable of securing anything except its own power and position. It does this by fomenting fear. Through propaganda we are convinced of a monstrous ‘new’ enemy. We imagine just who they might be, what they might do, and where they might strike. Citizens are constantly demoralized and terrorized by our government and Christian orthodoxy. Everyone foreign or with different convictions is a suspect. The status quo is thoroughly corrupt, its objectives amoral, and its power is held on to through intimidation, secret spying and by applying all the force and resources of state and federal police agencies against citizens in the name of protecting citizens.

Guardians of the status quo know full well that they cannot defeat so-called terrorism, they know that our citizens can never be safe. Ask yourself one question: "Who or what was really protected or profited by the more than one Trillion dollars spent by the United States government in FY2007?" Did you, your family or business become more wealthy or better off?

Terror and terrorism cannot now, nor will it ever, be defeated by any amount of force or money employed by the status quo. Why? Terrorism is a means driven by an idea to resolve an untenable condition. It is generally known and widely accepted that an idea can never be eliminated or beaten by oppression, faith, opposition or force. Terror and terrorism can be fought openly as with warfare, or covertly under cover of secrecy and blackness. Agents of terrorism can be bought or bribed. They can be cajoled, placated, even negotiated with. Terrorism can be supported if it serves our purpose, and denounced to establish our credibility or to gain an advantage.

Those among the status quo concerned with such matters know very well that terrorism and terror will, in the end, always win simply because it cannot be ignored. The status quo have accepted this reality and are now actively seeking avenues and opportunities to make terrorism and terror a profitable wealth generating multinational enterprise.

In practical terms this means that instead of attempting to establish genuine security for America and Americans, the machinery of the status quo has adopted the persistent nature and reality of terror and terrorism as a business model and marketing tool for a wide range of "security products". This is yet another exhibit in the already overwhelming mountain of evidence that our pseudo-aristocratic government, on behalf of elite minority faction rule, believes it is supported by a divinely inspired and therefore protected philosophy. It is a philosophy operating on principles of piety, profit, power, and with supreme control that places the highest and most desirable value on property, position, and wealth, while regarding human life as either a cheap commodity to be exploited or as a disposable tool.

Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government appreciates the momentary pleasure and motivational value of personal achievement. It has great respect for creating wealth and actively encourages success, profit, power and position. There is no question that these are important goals and desires natural to human beings and the advance of civilization. However, Humanistic Equalism ultimately regards these and all exclusively self-aggrandizing materially motivated pursuits as secondary and subservient to the progress, happiness, and improved conditions in which all our citizens, and indeed all people everywhere should live and function.

Wealth, position, profit, and power in their proper context with relation to government and society are interim and immediate results that should serve as an additional means to loftier ends. Ends such as leading all citizens toward the long held commonly desired goal of accelerating human progress, happiness,prosperity and advancing civilization. Wealth, position, profit, and power should not be governments motivating purpose or function. The purpose and function of government is to guarantee equal access, equal opportunity, and equal consideration by hearing all and favoring none. Government must clearly define the rules and parameters regarding the products and wealth our citizens create and produce. The benefits of human ingenuity and labor are a society's common product resulting from common sense for the common good; they are not the property and machinery of an elite minority faction.

The point is that if wealth, position, profit, and power are prioritized properly and governed by a humane rather than ordained political philosophy, all citizens will have an equal shot at the brass ring. Those that start at birth in fortunate material circumstances will be able to achieve even greater heights. While those born with nothing more than a strong heart, strong intellect, and strong back will have just as much opportunity to accomplish something and rise above the circumstance of their birth. After all, is this not the American Dream?

The next natural evolution of political philosophy and systems of government can only be one where the entire reason for a government to exist is to make sure the playing field of public business and public interactivity is level and the rules apply equally to all citizens at all times. To make sure that no citizen is penalized for the course of their life by the circumstance of birth. In practical terms this means that no citizen should ever be kept down burdened with poor health, insufficient inadequate education, hunger or lack of shelter as a result of to whom and in what circumstance they were born.

I do not understand when anyone tries to argue that there is any other reason for government power than to defend and secure the basic necessities of life. In previous times that meant defense from invasion, food, clothing and shelter. In the 21st century it means good health, unlimited education, reasonably priced healthy food, and equal treatment by authority. It means equal access to process, equal opportunity with equal enforcement and equal justice. Government, though it is of society, cannot function or act like it. Society is brutal. Society is a buyer beware, every person for him or her self, I'm gonna get mine jungle; it is neither fair nor equal. And why should it be? Individuals make up a society and their primary concern is their own well being.

Government, on the other hand, must be the controlling authority and force of consistency guaranteeing every citizen absolutely equal status, privileges, and rights by the impartial and ethical conduct of all its action, function, and responsibility. Government must be the home-plate umpire calling balls and strikes, fouls and outs; a neutral objective third party whose only function is to enforce the rules that have been approved by all, for all.

There is no doubt or argument that government must assume the primary responsibility of defining and enforcing the law of contracts and use its full force and authority to protect private and personal property. Government must also define, enact, and enforce a civil and criminal code of laws; and it should be entrusted with all necessary power and authority to keep order through justice. But since all of these matters concern the affairs and effect the lives of all the people, it is they, and not property or other things, about which contracts are entered into, which are of the greatest value.

Government, first and foremost, must be base its action and function on human beings, their needs and progress. The proposed Humanistic Equalism system and process of government controlled by the objectively neutral Three-question Test process will accomplish something never before done by the status quo or any government thus far in history.

Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government adopted as our government system and process will translate into real and substantial security for all America’s citizens, for our homeland, and for our foreign interests by establishing absolutely equal status, privileges, and rights for every citizen in all matters by its ethical conduct of equal consideration and treatment. When United States citizens, and those of other nations are treated equally, with dignity, with respect and with consideration of their needs and progress; only then will security, prosperity, and hope prevail. Only then will human civilization advance beyond its historical and present condition of misery, decay, and terror.

In the case of continuing to uphold and support the institution and tradition of the status quo versus a second American’s Revolution and shift of power to a government of Humanistic Equalism. I believe that I have presented sufficient evidence for a decision and ruling in favor of Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government and radical change. If my fellow citizens will consider the testable and factual evidence on the merits and not whether this new philosophy and system of government will rock the boat, stir things up, or cause them to be uncomfortable and inconvenienced, there can only be one logical outcome.

If Humanistic Equalism is considered with intellectual and personal honesty, unfettered by shackles of dogma and creed, failed political ideology or the fraudulent prestidigitation of miracle our course of action is clear. One must consider the facts and evidence as a United States citizen by rising above petty selfish affection and attachment to inherited personal beliefs. When the evidence is weighed based only on that which is knowable and true, a citizen must decide in favor of Revolution, in favor of overthrowing the status quo.

This concludes our initial examination of the broad subject of "Security." On 15 October 2008 Blogger's Unite will sponsor another "blog-in." This time bloggers around the globe will be coming together to address the subject of poverty. I will be among those blogging about this egregious condition plaguing America and the world. So, in preparation for, and leading up to 15 October 2008 I will be discussing on this blog site economics as it is and as it could be under a government of Humanistic Equalism. Please come back soon and Give Peace a chance.
James B. Tinsley, B.A.

IKE- LIPSTICK ON A PIG-PIT BULL PALIN-LEHMAN BROTHERS FAILURE

2008-09-12T10:31:00.007-05:00

12 September 2008

Because of the horrendous events of 11 September 2001
the United States is now spending nearly half its annual federal budget – more than one Trillion tax dollars – to manufacture and sustain a delusion of so-called National and Homeland Security. The status quo, in full support of the elite minority faction, keep telling us we can even more get security by invading and occupying some nations and threatening others. Pretending that America is safe and citizens are free, we are neither.

There is more than a general consensus in 2008 that real security in the United States is doubtful. In spite of all the borrowing and spending by congress and the executive, in spite of the U.S.A. Patriot Act, war, torture, degenerating civil rights and liberty. In spite of a vengeful fundamentalist unitary executive who acts like a king issuing decree by executive order and legislative signing statement, the United States is impotent against terrorists and terrorism.

The inadequacy and failure of the status quo model and minority faction rule is now being exposed. If we, as a nation, choose to pass up a rare historical opportunity to carry out another American’s Revolution, make a new system of government, and cause an irreversible shift of power, the current status quo will be the condition and position of America until its demise. To establish what most citizens imagine and think about when discussing security terms must be redefined and our nation's means and objectives re-framed. Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government is, for the moment, the only viable solution.

In his essay "The Ultimate Power," found in Passionate Declarations, Professor Howard Zinn discusses redefining terms and changing the framework of our objectives writing:

Statistics indicate that, of the industrialized nations, those that spend the least for military purposes show the greatest economic progress. … [The] habits of governments [are] so deeply dug into old policies of militarism and war … if a great popular movement should develop to insist on change, … if it became large enough to threaten the political power of government …[it] must be driven by a vision. … The vision in this case, for people all over the world, is the most inspiring of all, that of a world without war, without police states, … and with immense resources now free to be used for human needs. …It is, of course, an enormous job to be done. But never in history has there been one more worthwhile. … All we need to do is make the first moves, speak the first words.
…The conversion of resources requires a conversion of language. New definitions of old terms could become a part of the common vocabulary. The old definitions have misled us and caused monstrous harm.
The word for security, for instance, would take on a new meaning: the health and well being of people, which is the greatest strength and the most lasting security a nation can have. (A simple parable makes this clear: Would a family living in a high crime city feel more "secure" if it put machine guns in its windows, dynamite charges in the yard, and tripwires all around the house, at the cost of half the family income and less food for the children?) The analogy is not far fetched. It is an understatement of what nations do today.

Following up on Professor Zinn’s ideas keep in mind that our nation is now spending more than one Trillion dollars annually to produce nothing more than the illusion and delusion of national and homeland security. Future spending is projected to be even higher. Citizens must ask and answer some simple but very serious questions.

Would we not in fact be substantially and measurably more secure if every citizen were guaranteed the best basic medical care from conception to coffin? Would we not be more secure if every citizen were guaranteed the best education and training throughout the course of their life? Would our discernible security not be more reliable if every citizen actively and willingly contributed to the nation through a brief period of useful work on its behalf? Would citizens not be more united and devoted to each other and America at large if every person, every business and every corporation that should pay taxes actually paid them? If all citizens had an opportunity to exercise authentic material control over government actions and spending would we not substantially increase the meaning and degree of national and domestic security? And finally, is it not undeniably obvious that America and American citizens would be infinitely more secure if every citizen were guaranteed that our United States government treats all living citizens in a truly equal way by establishing and maintaining absolutely equal status, privilege, and rights, and conducting its business in a consummate ethical manner?

As for national security with regard to foreign affairs, is it not reasonable to believe American security is more likely if our government does not invade and occupy other countries, or engage in constant bullying by threatening others? If leaders used our know-how and influence to aid and support those around the world that are struggling against totalitarian rulers, tyranny, ethnic cleansing, or religious genocide because it is the right and humane thing to do and without expecting anything in return, would we not be infinitely more secure? For example would we not be better off supporting Venezuela rather than Israel or Saudi Arabia?

If, instead of flouting our alleged superiority and very real military arsenal to force untenable Milton Friedman wild west capitalist economic terrorism and social changes upon places where they are unwelcome, unwarranted, and unwanted, would we not enhance our own reputation and thus our security? If we employed our ingenuity, technology, and authority exclusively to help others less fortunate, those mired in devastating poverty or oppression? If America helped them to rise up and determine their own destiny, while allowing them to remain true to their traditional beliefs and culture, instead of trying to make them more like Americans. If, instead "giving" Democracy to those that do not necessarily want it at gunpoint, or forcing the American way of life upon other cultures, the United States lived up to its own ideals, would we not find ourselves with greater demonstrable security?

America has always claimed and, until recently, always been believed by other nations to be the world's first and strongest protector of basic Human Rights. I ask, if our foreign policy were to be equal to our marketing and mythology what nation, what group or cause, what ideology or terrorist would have reason or grievance to attack the United States or any of its interests, facilities or territory? Honestly? Really think about the implications. Our hubris, ignorance, and cupidity – our hypocrisy – is the source and cause of any terrorism, any attack or disruption we are now experiencing or will face in the future.

If our nation acted as it spoke, practiced what it preaches, or did unto others, as it would have them do unto America, we would have no enemy. Only when someone is wronged, intentionally or otherwise, will they become an enemy.

Generally, people treated with common courtesy, respect, honesty and without deception will not and cannot become an enemy. They may still hurt you, but any such action would be motivated by something else; like greed or a need to dominate, something emotional or psychological but not the venom and vitriol that inspires terrorism and real enemies.

Imagine the United States being a humanitarian super power rather than a military super power. Imagine America being a facilitator and supporter of people and nations rather than an invader and occupier. Imagine being the world's healer and the planets’ supreme protector rather than its interrogator, torturer and plunderer. Imagine if the United States government, its citizens and its corporations, were focused on and dedicated to improving human living conditions for all people around the world rather than increasing the wealth, position, and power of an elite minority faction. Imagine that human progress, happiness, good health, unlimited education, opportunity and absolute equality of status, privileges, rights and ethical conduct by government is the most important objective of United States citizens and government. More important than profit, wealth, conquest, oil, or even image and prestige; imagine that people are more valuable than anything of or beyond this world. If you can imagine these things, then you can imagine the true spirit and purpose of the United States of America and its aspiration as expressed in Declaration of Independence. Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government will make it possible.

Can you imagine the United States of America being this kind of nation? Certainly the two major presidential candidates and the two ruling political parties do not and cannot inspire such high minded thoughts. Until we, the people, carry out another Revolution throwing out our bad government and instituting a new one based on Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government our security and safety will remain as a source of fear, oppression, and profit.

Next time I will conclude my examination of security with an in depth look at terror and terrorism. Until then, Give Peace a chance.
James B. Tinsley, B.A.

BRISTOL PALIN-MAVERICK McCAIN-RNC-HANNA-IKE

2008-09-05T11:40:00.004-05:00

5 September 2008

Our in depth examination and discussion about the fallacy of security in the United States of America continues.

The deception of America’s security begins in the words of the Declaration of Independence with the suggestion that "all are…equal." Recall Thomas Jefferson’s meaning that all are equal in rights and not necessarily in abilities. Although this myth of equality was vital when instigating rebellion it was not considered important enough to be explicitly included as part of our Constitution. In the Preamble ‘equality’ is overtly implicit as a sub-text lending support to American security mythology.

The Preamble is unambiguous in its assertion that we, the people, did ordain and establish our constitutional framework. Principally for the purposes of organizing a system and process of government to provide security for life, liberty, and property. It is a legal and binding social contract. The framers agreed that the ends of government are to establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, and promote the general welfare. All of which are aspects of either domestic or national security. They also pledged to devote resources to creating a more perfect union and ensuring liberty’s blessings.

Citizens first learn about the American Revolution and the writing of the Constitution in school. This process generally includes memorizing the Preamble. As a result, the natural and logical inference one draws is that all this security, protection, justice, and the supposed blessings secured by government are for every member of the group. That is to say, Americans believe this Constitutional contract must apply equally to all citizens, private and corporate. Therein one discovers the fraud, the deception and ultimately, the myth.

The plain unvarnished non-mythologized truth is that our independence was declared, our Revolution instigated, and our United States Constitution was constructed and ratified by and for the benefit and protection of the property and interests of an elite wealthy minority faction; not for ALL. The only role common citizens and poor farmers had in establishing this nation was the actual fighting and winning of the Revolutionary War.

In Passionate Declarations, re-titled and re-published in 2003 by Perennial, an imprint of Harper Collins Publishers, Inc., New York, historian, activist, and author, Dr. Howard Zinn, discussing the opening phrase of our Constitution’s Preamble writes:
"The Constitution thus looked as if it were written by all the people, representing their interests. … In fact, the Constitution was drawn up by fifty-five men, all white and mostly rich, who represented a certain elite group in the new nation."

Dr. Zinn also writes about this extensively in A People’s History of the United States, first published in 1980 by Harper Collins Publishers, Inc., New York, and revised most recently in 2003. He notes that, "In Federalist Paper #10, James Madison argued that representative government was needed to maintain peace in a society ridden by factional disputes." Disputes caused from, as Madison says, "the various and unequal distribution of property."

According to Zinn, Madison saw the real problem threatening survival of the United States going forward as one of "minority faction." The solution offered by the Constitution was a large republic ranging over thirteen states. Madison then says: " It will be more difficult for all who feel it to discover their own strength, and to act in unison with each other… The influence of factious leaders may kindle a flame within their particular States, but [it] will be unable to spread a general conflagration through the other States." Madison reasoned that, any rabble-rousers, or even someone with a legitimate cause, if separated – isolated, could be controlled and ultimately shut down. Thereby keeping the peace and security for those with wealth and property.

But Professor Zinn asks, "[Is] it the aim of government simply to maintain order…? Or is it that government has some special interest in maintaining a certain kind of order, a certain distribution of power and wealth, a distribution in which government officials are not neutral… but participants?"
In Federalist #10, James Madison is direct about whose peace he supports. He remarks: "A rage for paper money, for an abolition of debts, for an equal division of property, or for any other improper or wicked project, will be less apt to pervade the whole body of the Union than a particular member of it." [Emphasis added.] James Madison impugns common citizens’ redress for economic stimulus, for relief that had been assured, and a demand to have equal access, opportunity, and protection by designating our purported inalienable rights of citizenship to be both improper and wicked. This act exposes his true aristocratic nature and loyalty to the powerful status quo.

Madison was a member of the original American pseudo-aristocratic class that also included Hamilton, John Adams, Jefferson, and Washington. Most of our constitutional framers were an elite cohort of men that were already established in positions of wealth and power. The group also included lawyers, shipping tycoons, slave traders, speculators and moneychangers. This minority faction instigated rebellion and revolution for less than altruistic or compassionate ends. Upon attaining victory this minority acted to institutionalize its position, power, and priority interests as synonymous with our new nation’s objectives by assigning exclusive authority and privilege to themselves and the minority faction they represented at the Constitutional Convention.

In A People’s History of the United States, Professor Zinn refers to historian Charles Beard’s early twentieth century book, An Economic Interpretation of the Constitution, in which Beard points out that, "for their own interest, the rich either have to directly control the government or the laws by which government operates." By studying the political ideas and economic backgrounds of the fifty-five men who assembled the Constitution, Charles Beard discovered that most of them were wealthy, and that most had some direct economic interest in establishing a strong federal government.

Mr. Beard also noted that four groups were not represented in the Constitutional Convention: slaves, indentured servants, women, and men without property. I would add native people to the list. Because those groups were not represented, the Constitution did not reflect their interests. But, according to Zinn, Beard wanted to make it clear that, "he [Beard] did not think the Constitution was written merely to benefit the Founding Fathers personally. Rather, it was to benefit the groups the Founders represented, the ‘economic interests they understood and felt in concrete, definite form through their own personal experience.’" Charles Beard also warns us that government, including our own, is not neutral.Government always represents the dominant economic [and I would add religious] interests and shapes their constitutions to serve these interests.

By examining the political clauses of our Constitution and the economic interests that created them, it is very easy to recognize it for what it is. The United States Constitution is not the work of wise men simply trying to establish the security of a decent and orderly nation. The final draft language clearly demonstrates that certain parts of society arranged things for their security in order to hold on to their established privileges, power and wealth, while, as Dr. Zinn says, "giving just enough rights and liberties to enough of the people to ensure popular support." From the very beginning of our nation the government has been arranged to divide and control.

That ours is a nation dedicated to providing justice, domestic tranquility, common defense and general welfare for all citizens is the myth of America’s security. The truth is that ‘All’ is narrowly defined and includes primarily wealthy and powerful religious, political, and corporate interests. The remaining 90%-plus of citizens must be content to rely on our rugged individualism and, in deference to our pseudo-aristocratic government and the wealthy donor-class, we should be grateful to live in the greatest, most powerful, most secure and free nation in the history of the world. The security objective of the elite status quo is to protect its own position, power and profit, not all the citizens of the United States.

This process of securing the wealth, powers and position of the American Ruling Class is maintained by granting – usually after much resistance – some number of limited, tightly restricted and controlled civil rights and liberties. All of which continually undergo further limitation and qualification upon review by the courts and legislative amendment. It is unpatriotic to complain about this because every citizen should know by now that, Freedom ain’t Free.

We have traded our liberties for lawyers and our integrity for the myth of security. The illusion and structure of America’s traditional Homeland and National Security model protected and defended thus far by the status quo offers some insight into the deleterious stupor of credulity and cupidity infecting the spirit and character of United States citizens.

Something for readers to consider. More to follow in my next posting. Until then...Give Peace a chance.

James B. Tinsley, B.A.

DENNIS KUCINICH-OBAMA NOMINATED BY ACCLAMATION-BILL CLINTON'S SPEECH-ACCEPTANCE SPEECH IN DENVER

2008-08-28T11:01:00.005-05:00

28 August 2008

To believe without evidence or proof is an act of ignorance and folly. The credulous man loses himself in a labyrinth of contradictions; the man of sense examines and discusses that he may be consistent in his opinions. The honest man will bear contradiction because it gives rise to evidence. Violence is the argument of falsehood and to impose a creed by authority is the act and indication of a tyrant.
(C. F. Volney, The Ruins of Empires, 1792)

Beginning with my last posting on 22 August 2008 I am now going to undertake a extensive discussion about "security"- national, homeland, and personal.

America’s probable future with Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government will be drastically different and greatly improved compared to the discomfort, division, and inevitable decline anticipated by the continuation of our conditioned reflexive habit of opposing extreme and fundamental change. The human tendency toward ‘habit’ is, I believe, as instinctive and natural as our fear of the unknown or always seeking the path of least resistance. It is reasonable to conclude that the human proclivity to ‘habit’ is related to self-preservation, the survival instinct. Therefore logic dictates that on some level within the human psyche habit equates with security.

What exactly is ‘security’? Is security a feeling? Is security tangible, verifiable? Can one buy security, or guarantee it? How much might security cost? Who or where would one pay? Is it a concept, a principle, a condition? From what does security arise? Is it an end or a means? Is the argument or question of security with regard to the United States actually about security? Is there a difference between personal security and national security? Is national security even possible? For that matter, is personal security possible? If asked, "Are you secure?" or, "Is the experience of your daily life one of security?" What conditions would have to exist and what process would be used to enable one to respond, "Yes"? What is security?

I submit that ‘security’ in America is a fallacy; that is, a false notion with the quality of being deceptive. Consulting the American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, 3rd Edition, ‘security’ is defined in a number of ways relevant to the context of this examination.

For example, one definition of security is ‘freedom from risk or danger." A person or nation can never achieve freedom from risk or danger. Another definition is "freedom from doubt, anxiety, or fear." This too, is unattainable. Other definitions state that security is "something that gives or assures safety; such as building or body guards, measures adopted by government to prevent espionage, sabotage, or attack; and finally,security is defined as measures adopted by businesses or homeowners to prevent a crime such as burglary or assault."

Neither guards nor measures or laws are capable of providing or assuring safety to individual persons or a nation. At the very most ‘security’ is a desire, a goal, like perfection, to be striven for but ultimately never achieved. Therefore, within the context of this inquiry and analysis, ‘security’ is a fallacy. Security is false because it is always something "we need." It is deceptive because it can never be shown to exist, it cannot be accurately verified or measured. Think about that. Look back through our history. You will find that defense and security is always something we need more of. Ironically, we always need more precisely because how much we have (or do not have) cannot be demonstrated. So, the power of the idea of security to manipulate populations of citizens arises out of the fact it is unknown and unknowable, a condition rife with fear.

Security is a fallacy with primordial power. It is the kind of self-interested and manipulative notion that is perfect for inclusion in American mythology and exploitation by machinery of the elite Status Quo minority faction – America’s ruling class. The most obvious purpose of security is to safeguard and sustain control of wealth and power. Security, especially ‘national security’, is the language of domination and subjugation, of capitalists and corporatists, and of aristocracy and privilege. If this seems incredible, start listening, look back through history; security is always the purview of wealth, power, and authority. And it is always the poor and common people that pay for it and die for it.

Cultivating the myth of security in America is the means to command, to control, and to profit. Defenders of the Status Quo insist that they are the main source responsible for our nation’s mythological quest for security. A closer reading of America’s traditional historical myth regarding its actual security achievements is instructive. It reveals the fallacious and deceptive nature of security for the protection and purpose of special interest. Our security is perpetrated and inflicted by government agencies upon citizens, rather than safety and protection that is actually provided for the people. Security predicated on Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government is far superior to the current model.

Our examination of "security" will continue next time. Make a comment if you like and please tell others about this blog. Give Peace a chance.
James B. Tinsley, B.A.

Gaza-Denver-Democratic Convention-Joe Biden-How Many Houses?

2008-08-22T20:13:00.002-05:00

21 August 2008

What is the case for citizens of the United States rufusing to accept chang and fighting with all their might to keep the Status Quo in place: because it is familiar and convenient; because it will be really hard, confusing, and scary to act otherwise. To challenge the power structure of the Status Quo would interfere with our comfort. Rather than only being concerned about some selfish special interest, getting what we want when we want it like spoiled children, citizens will have to think of our nation and act like mature adults. Citizens believe, for the most part, they must not upset the Status Quo, but instead manage it with compromise so as to protect the property, profit, power, and position currently held and manipulated by the elite minority faction. I have also presented the basic philosophy, system, principles and process of Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government, its desired ends and the means to achieve them. Do we choose people and progress, or the Status Quo in order to achieve the greatest degree of security for our nation and ourselves?

“National Security” by the Status Quo only exists as statistics and delusion. It is a conceptual or virtual product. The need or demand for national security is stimulated among citizens by the president, congress, and media, which use fear and terror as the core of its marketing strategy. By continually terrorizing America’s general population and creating a demand, our Status Quo government is free to divert an endless flow of taxpayer dollars and public wealth to private sector corporatists and disaster complex capitalists.

To be sure there is lots of flash and bang and bodies contained in the security product manufactured by government, media and capitalist interests but it is nothing more than propaganda and show. As a tangible measurable and verifiable substance security in America is not apparent, and it cannot be demonstrated to exist. The entire national security manufacturing procedure, from creating the demand to selling the conceptual product to citizens, is just another method of protecting and sustaining the position and domination of the super rich and religiously influential; the Status Quo.

The United States is now spending nearly half its annual federal budget – more than one Trillion tax dollars – to manufacture and sustain this delusion of so-called National and Homeland Security. The Status Quo, in full support of the elite minority faction, keep telling us we can get even more security by invading and occupying some nations and by threatening others. Pretending that America is safe and citizens are free, we are neither.

It is more than a general consensus in 2008 that security in the United States is doubtful. In spite of all the borrowing and spending by congress and the executive, in spite of the U.S.A. Patriot Act, war, torture, degenerating civil rights and liberty. In spite of a vengeful fundamentalist unitary executive who acts like a king, issuing decree by executive order and legislative signing statement, the United States is impotent against terrorists and terrorism.

Not even by eliminating due process, habeas corpus and keeping people imprisoned for years without justification or charges, or funding American companies to create mercenary security forces that oversee a growing franchise of torture facilities around the world is able to make us truly secure. Nothing being done or supported by the existing power structure is making the United States, its citizens and its interests, any safer today than we were on 10 September 2001. In fact there is every indication that our nation is more vulnerable and likely to be attacked now because the only thing about security the Status Quo is interested in is its earnings and profits.

Based on the evidence and our experience thus far, it must be concluded that there is not and cannot be any security by keeping the Status Quo. America’s future security, if left to the Status Quo, will not improve or, for that matter, change. It will remain as it is; the Status Quo. Our nation’s ominous security outlook was captured earlier in the 2008 presidential campaign. One of the candidates was fond of saying that the security challenge for the United States in the foreseeable future is a transcendental one; it is the very real and serious danger posed by radical Islamo-fascists.

Nearly all the presidential candidates of both major parties, to some degree or other, expressed a belief that our future security at home and abroad is threatened by this fundamentalist element. Simply stated, this is the position of those that support and defend the Status Quo. Our biggest and most serious security challenge is not transcendental, nor is it radical Islam or terrorism. The obstacle to real security and peace is American citizens refusing to demand that the forces of government and institutions of authority make progress, prosperity, and the condition of citizens lives the focus and objective of all government action and function. Our only real obstacle is American hubris, ignorance and cupidity.

More soon. Give Peace a chance.
James B. Tinsley,B.A.

ENERGY CRISIS-OLYMPICS-CHINA-PARIS HILTON-REPUBLICAN PROTEST

2008-08-07T14:02:00.007-05:00

7 August 2008

Since 16 June 2008 I have used my postings to define, explain, and demonstrate Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government. Next, I intend to begin a long term exploration as to how its adoption as the foundation for legislation and policy will transform the nature of government. That is to say the meaning, function, and purpose of government. In the course of this expanded and more detailed discussion I will strive to apply the philosophy of Humanistic Equalism, as well as, the Three-question Test process to current and on-going conditions and events.

But first, I want to establish some context, construct the proper frame through which this blog- SHIFT OF POWER - its contents and my assertions should be received, perceived, and considered. By this I mean that I want to clarify and separate my personal feelings and desires from what I am proposing. Or, to put it another way, make it as clear as possible that what I would to change things and fix things if I had the power is quite different from what will be the result of a system and process of government based upon Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government.

For example, I would make soliciting money by any religion or ministry a crime of fraud with very harsh punishment. If people wish to contribute or tithe that is not a problem; but for a priest, preacher, minister, Pope or any religious authority to ASK for contributions, tithes, or suggest in any way that a believer must or should give money to any religion or church or ministry is something I consider to be fraud by deception. Why? Because what is being done, either explicitly or implicitly, is believers are being told that by giving money they will in some fashion or other gain some degree of favor and consideration by the God-figure of that particular religion. Whether that God-figure is believed to be a god of substance with a body and physical attributes. Or, is thought to be a force such as a "universal force", " cause and effect", or "supernatural creator". But, as I said, this is my personal feeling and desire and has absolutely nothing to do with Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government and my presentation of it.

Humanistic Equalism, as offered and presented in my manuscript and subsequently at this blog-site, concerns government - power- ruling authority - what it does and how it's citizens, the people, are treated. It is about changing government, not people. That is, Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government is NOT about trying to change the way people treat each other, what they believe in, why or how they worship. People are self-interested, self-promoting, self-protecting animals that are in some ways and to some degree more intellectually developed and advanced than other animals. And it is for precisely this reason that an ethical government institution should be the ultimate arbiter for promoting human progress, prosperity and happiness, and guarantor of absolutely equal status, privileges, and rights for every citizen.

It is very important that readers know and keep in mind from this point and going forward, with respect to religion in general, and Christian orthodoxy in particular, that in my daily life, my interaction and dealing in business and society, I recognize, as well as, practice what I believe government should do. While my most primal instinct in conjunction with my observation and informed reasoning lead me to conclude that religion, specifically orthodox Christian dogma, doctrine and creed, is the scourge of humanity; nothing would make me happier than to see it disappear from all but the account of history. As a citizen of the United States of America I am willing to give my life so that every citizen, every other person, has the right and opportunity to believe and practice whatever they wish. That is, as long as it is kept strictly outside of the law, function, and purview of government.

In other words, every citizen, every person should have this, and any other right that I claim for myself. I believe that every individual must freely give to every other person any and all rights they would claim for their self. I do not DISlike or believe that most Christians are intentionally cruel, mean, evil and nasty. They are only doing what they have been taught and accepted as true and correct. What I ABHOR and do believe is that the dogma, doctrine and creed established by any orthodoxy, but especially Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, is a lie that teaches its adherents intentionally cruel, mean, evil and nasty behaviors.

These particular religious beliefs instruct believers to murder non-believers, support and justify slavery, and view humans as subservient creations, playthings, children to be controlled, reprimanded, smited, and damned to eternal suffering. All at the caprice of some supposed supreme being, creator, force or God. Orthodox religion teaches that Humans are less-than. Whereas, I believe, and the credible evidence supports my belief, that human beings are the highest intelligence and the only source of power, hope, and salvation that exists in the known universe.

The point is, please do not take anything I say about religious orthodoxy personally. I do not care what you, or anyone believes; nor do I have any feelings about or when, where or how a person may choose to worship or pray. My work- this blog - as well as, Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government, everything I am now doing and will most likely do until my death is what little I can to advance two fundamental causes.

First, to expose and prove through clear reasonable evidence the fraud of
religious and Christian orthodoxy, and its destructive effect on humanity and citizens when integrated with government.

Second, to change the meaning, purpose, and function of government so that it is ethical, existing to support and promote progress, prosperity, and happiness serving the needs of the people by establishing and maintaining absolutely equal status, privileges, and rights for all citizens. That is to say, ethical government is one that puts continual improvement in the condition of all citizen's lives and advancing civilization ahead of, and over the protection of profit, power, position and property.

Our current government is corrupt, ineffective, dictatorial and broken beyond repair in its present form and system. If the human species is to evolve, advance and develop we must realize and acknowledge that people - human beings - humanity - is, as far as we know, all that is truly important; that the rights of people - Human Rights - is the only thing supreme enough to be envisioned and thought of as God.
James B. Tinsley, B.A.

NELSON MANDELA-DARK KNIGHT-OFFSHORE DRILLING-EMMY NOMINATIONS-COMEDY CENTRAL

2008-07-18T11:06:00.005-05:00

18 JULY 2008

HAPPY 90TH BIRTHDAY NELSON MANDELA!

A few weeks ago I decided to stop worrying that my blog, SHIFT OF POWER, was not attracting tons of readers, and to stop being frustrated that no one who had read it felt compelled to make a comment. I determined to be patient and returned to the original purpose for creating SHIFT OF POWER, which is to introduce, define and explain Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government of Common Sense, by Common People, for Common Good. A new political philosophy and concept of government I developed over the past thirty-odd years. I have completed work on the original manuscript and, after having several people read it and offer suggestions, am almost finished with my third re-write. It is my intention and hope that I will be able to offer it for sale in the very near future.

In the mean time, I am using this blog to bring it to your attention by explaining the principles, reasoning, and ideas of Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government; what it is, how it works, and what it will mean to the United States of America. I firmly believe that our nation is at a point where Revolution, that is, removing our current corrupt and ineffectual government and replacing it with one that is better, more effective and humane is not only absolutely necessary, but that it is entirely possible to do. And that is essentially why I decided to return to my point of origin and patiently, methodically lay out the facts and purpose regarding Humanistic Equalism from the beginning.

So far I have explained the definition, philosophy and principles; what it means, the reasoning that it is based on, what the purpose and objective is, and the process that makes Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government practicable. Let's review.

The philosophical foundation is HUMANISM, however, replacing the suffix "ism" with the suffix "istic" implies adherence to the active promotion and advancement of Human concerns regarding progress, prosperity, and happiness as the only reason and purpose of government. The principles it is based on are Human value and dignity, factual liberty, and absolutely equal status, privileges, and rights for ALL citizens by the ethical conduct of government. The process that makes Humanistic Equalism work is a Three-question Test process that I described (for the second time) in my last post (12 July 2008). I will now demonstrate how this process works as I promised to do.

Most everyone agrees the American system of politics is the so-called ‘Art’ of compromise. I concur. I would argue that the United States is the product of compromise. It is a point of pride among Americans. We are a reasonable people we are always willing to compromise.

I believe the growth and maturity of the United States; its industrialization, inestimable wealth, and nuclear domination of the planet are all the product of compromise. I believe just as strongly that our immediate and increasing plight of dysfunction, deterioration, and decline are the result of government by compromise. Compromise made the United States what it is, and what it is not.

Compromise is anathema to government function and policy. Compromise is legislative heroin distributed by elected representatives. It reinforces an addiction and feeds a dependency on the status quo among citizens. All this goes to the purpose and function of the Three-question Test process necessary to engage and utilize Humanistic Equalism. A process, by the way, that is applicable to any existing system of government that permits citizen involvement, uses representatives, or makes decision by committee.

It is a process that serves to make citizens the primary object and beneficiary of the eternal and unbreakable chain of cause and effect; and to determine a course that will cause the best effect for every living citizen. Vigorous debate and heated argument can and should remain integral to the process of legislating and policy making. When debate and argument are finished and the time to decide is at hand the Three-question Test process should be applied. Compromise is antithetical to the ends of human progress, prosperity, happiness, equality and ethics. Consequently, no compromise regarding such matters is acceptable.

To further illustrate how this process will change the manner in which government functions is an example of how a legislative proposal would be put to the test. I have chosen to use the issue of same-sex marriage. I chose it because it is one of the so-called "hot-button" issues used for years to keep us divided and therefore more easily manipulated. It is also an issue that reveals the ignorance of many in our country, as well as, the poisonous and deleterious influence that religion insinuates upon government.

It is proposed that same-sex marriage should be permitted.

The first question is asked: Will permitting same-sex marriage cause ruinous harm to the dignity, value, happiness, and progress of citizens’ lives?

We are all familiar with the arguments about the sanctity of the institution of marriage between a man and woman. An institution, by the way, that is so sacred it currently boasts a failure rate of more than fifty (50%) percent. It is also adamantly argued that same-sex marriage is unnatural; that it is an abomination; that marriage has always been between a man and woman (a claim that has no truth in fact). Or, if same-sex marriage is permitted it will not be long before people will want to marry members of their family, or in extreme cases, a beloved farm animal. This, and all "slippery slope" arguments, is the last refuge of ignorance. It is essentially an argument designed to create fear and division. I sincerely believe there is no possible way a person with even marginal intelligence and capacity to reason could, without pressure from some religious element, accept any of these arguments. Therefore, the answer to the first question must be, No.

What about the second question?

Will permitting same-sex marriage secure without exception absolutely equal status, privileges, and rights of every citizen? Since that is the reason for allowing same-sex marriage the only possible answer is, Yes.

Finally, the third question.

Will permitting same-sex marriage require and guarantee, without exception, equitable, impartial, and just application and enforcement to every citizen?

Again, since permitting same-sex marriage would include all those who choose that life-style and are currently excluded from equitable, impartial, and just application and enforcement with regard to marriage the only answer is, Yes.

Using this process to apply the principles of Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government to the issue of same-sex marriage will mean that citizens who are now ostracized and excluded from living as our Constitution expressly intended will finally be permitted to experience living freely in the pursuit of happiness. Subsequently all those people will feel a greater affinity, take a greater interest, and be more likely to actively support and participate in the growth, maintenance, and prosperity of the nation. When citizens are happy and satisfied with our nation’s laws the United States of America reaps all the benefits of that happiness. One can clearly see from this example how the process of applying the philosophy, principles and process of Humanistic Equalism will work.

Give Peace a chance.
James B. Tinsley, B.A.

FANNIE MAE-TONY SNOW-BEAR MARKET-PHIL GRAMM-UNIVERSAL HUMAN RIGHTS

2008-07-12T19:46:00.004-05:00

12 July 2008

Recently I received an email from Carly Scott asking if I would be amenable to write about, take action on behalf of, and place a link to www.theelders.org here at Shift of Power. Ms. Scott explained that in 2007 Nelson Mandela convened a group of senior power players affectionately referred to as The Elders. Together they concluded to organize and carry out a campaign to recall and celebrate the 60th anniversary since the Universal Declaration of Human Rights called EVERY HUMAN HAS RIGHTS.

I am happy to do what little I can. The fact is this blog, created to introduce, define and explain Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government is fundamentally about how to achieve and establish Human Rights. By experience, observation, and reason I have come to believe without any doubt that the United States, indeed the entire civilized world, has only one hope.

It is the hope that citizens of all nations will realize that they, not governments, are the sole source of all value and all power. Until now there has not been a well-reasoned workable philosophy, system or process to construct a Human Rights oriented government upon. However, with Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government as the foundation, human value and dignity, as well as, improving the condition, prosperity, and happiness of all citizens through absolutely equal status, privileges, and rights with ethical government Universal Human Rights will be fully realized.

Humanistic Equalism will transform the purpose and function of government in a variety of ways. All of which will be addressed over time. For the moment, I want to begin with the way it will affect the manner of decision making, enacting legislation, and taking action. Within my own mind, at least, it is extremely clear that the so-called Art of Compromise, in so far as it concerns the function of government, is the first step leading to corruption and eventually Human Rights abuse.

Since I have devoted two postings (see 25 and 30 April 2008) exposing the fallacy and destructive nature of compromise within the context of government, I will only remark on it briefly. Compromise can be a useful strategy and tool when buying a vehicle, working out a divorce settlement, or closing a business deal. But, when the issue is whether children have adequate food and health care, starting or continuing to fund war, building fighter jets or nuclear submarines; when the issue is bailing out investment banks and hedge funds, giving tax breaks to the super rich while cutting funding for food stamps, or refusing to extend unemployment benefits for those that are unable to find work; when the issue is one of human need vs. property, profit, power, or position, compromise is an unacceptable solution.

Our government was conceived, formed, and has developed from compromise. The United States of America is the epitome of compromise, its best student and most avid supporter. For this reason it will be practically impossible for most Americans to even begin to imagine that government can function without it. How in the world could the United States Federal Government accomplish anything at all without relying on compromise? I readily admit it will be unnatural, frustrating, and excruciatingly difficult, at first. It is, however, within the realm of possibility to accomplish.

In Part II of my previous discussion regarding compromise (30 April 2008), I introduce and briefly describe a method that will, for the most part, eliminate it. The method is a Three-question Test process. This process is the most important element in putting Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government into practice, for applying theory to real-world circumstances. It is the key process not found in any philosophy or system of government that exists today, or has ever existed in human civilization. The Three-question Test process makes Universal Human Rights the natural primary purpose of government.

Three-Question Test

1. Will this action or function cause ruinous harm to the dignity, value, happiness and progress of citizens' lives?

2. Will this action or function secure, without exception, absolutely equal status, privileges, and rights of every citizen?

3. Will this action or function require and guarantee, without exception, equitable, impartial application and enforcement to every citizen?

The answer to the first question must be NO; questions two and three must be YES. Each answer must be unequivocal, unqualified, and unambiguous. If the answer to any of the three questions requires special circumstances, treatment, or has exceptions, then the action or function is to be rejected as presented. When any legislation, action, or function under consideration by our government is constructed, written, or undertaken so as to strictly comply with the requirements mandated by the Three-question Test process, only then can it be passed, acted on, or enforced.

So how exactly will this Three-question Test work; how will it succeed in altering the course and current decline of the United States? Why is it the ultimate guarantor of Universal Human Rights? Read my next post and find out. Give Peace a chance.

James B. Tinsley, B. A.

INDEPENDENCE DAY-FIREWORKS-PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES-GAS PRICES-RECESSION

2008-07-05T08:17:00.005-05:00

5 July 2008
Two hundred thirty-two years ago a small minority faction of elite Caucasian Protestant men, most of them wealthy and in positions of power, declared that the inhabitants of this continent had the right and ought to be free and independent from their sovereign. This elite minority faction effectively declared war on the most expansive, well armed and powerful empire on earth. They did this in the name of, and on behalf of all the people; all the natives, the indentured, the enslaved, the poor, the farmers, craftsmen, laborers, seamen, traders and women. They did it knowing full well that it would be them, the common people, that would have to do the actual fighting and dying. In fact if the American Revolution had depended upon the wealthy and powerful it never would have happened.

Yet, in spite of its truthful expression of human rights and rhetorical beauty; regardless of its rightful claims, its artful and well-founded argument, the Declaration of Independence is a useless and empty document. And even though it is truly inspirational, a logical and high-minded statement of human hopes, desires and ideals the Declaration of Independence is, quite frankly, a political tool employed by a wealthy and powerful minority faction to manipulate the common people; it is the nation's first use of the chimera known today as "National Security."

The first thing one must always remember and keep in mind when reading the Declaration of Independence-and I believe without any doubt that every citizen of the United States should read it at least once a year-it has no authority or power. The Declaration of Independence is just that-a declaration, a statement of grievances. It is not a legal document or binding agreement; nor is it an enforceable contract. The United States Declaration of Independence is simply a well-written rhetorically inspirational statement, an argumentative and idealistic essay.

After returning from an early morning bicycle ride and listening to "Morning Edition" on National Public Radio (N.P.R.) I was surprised to hear the N.P.R. on-air staff read the full text of the Declaration of Independence during one of the segments of the show. It is a rare occurrence to hear it spoken aloud in its entirety. Most Americans have never even read the whole thing from beginning to end. As I listened I experienced, with a notable increase in emotional intensity, all the feelings that I usually have whenever I read through it. The pride and righteousness of cause; the thrill and excitement of standing up for what is right, good, and common to all people, the invincibility of youth, and the satisfaction of telling truth to power. Then there is the inevitable feeling of sadness. The disappointment of deceit and empty unfulfilled promises as reality returns.

Our Declaration of Independence was, and still is, touted as one of the greatest political documents ever recorded. Consider the following excerpts which are some of my favorites.

When in the course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another,... requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation...--that all men are created equal,...with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness...Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed--That whenever any form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or abolish it, and to institute a new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. ... all experience hath shown, that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing the same Object reduces them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security. ... Such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former Systems of Government.

These claims are followed by a brilliantly constructed list of injuries and actions committed by the King of England and Parliament. Towards the end, in the final statement and actual declaration of their separation from Great Britain we find the following logical conclusion to the Colonists argument and reasoning.

In every stage of these Oppressions We have Petitioned for Redress in the most humble terms. Our repeated Petitions have been answered only by repeated injury. A Prince, whose character is thus marked by every act which may define a Tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of a free people...We have appealed to their native justice and magnanimity, and we have conjured them by the ties of our common kindred to disavow these usurpations which, would inevitably interrupt our connections and correspondence. They too have been deaf to the voice of justice and of consanguinity. We must, therefore, acquiesce in the necessity, which denounces our Separation, and hold them, as we hold the rest of mankind, Enemies in War, in Peace Friends.--...In the Name, and by Authority of the good people of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, that these United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States; that they are Abolished from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved...

Please take fifteen or twenty minutes sometime soon to read the Declaration of Independence from beginning to end. Read it to your family. Compare what the Colonists were going through with what we, in 2008, are being subjected to by our current Federal Government. In two hundred thirty-two years the United States Federal Government has become the same Despot, the same Tyrant, the same inflicter of injury and usurper of rights as the King and Parliament we threw off in 1776.

What I find to be so sad, so disappointing, so truly heartbreaking, is that the ideals, hopes, desires, and dreams evoked by this great piece of political posturing were abandoned almost immediately upon the cessation of hostilities. Not one of the ideals or principles outlined in our Declaration of Independence were enacted into law or incorporated in the legal framework of our original United States Constitution. And all those that have been added as Amendments have either been distorted and perverted by the Supreme Court, or ignored by those in power.

The Declaration of Independence is a Humanistic writing that recognizes the Human Condition and extols Equality. Our Constitution, on the other hand, is a legal, binding and enforceable Social Contract designed to protect property, profit, power, and position. The Declaration of Independence is about Human progress and happiness; whereas the Constitution is about power, authority and force; it establishes the foundation of the Status Quo to be controlled and manipulated by the ruling class elite minority faction in lieu of protecting and improving the lives of American citizens.

I submit that in 2008, as Citizens of the United States, we have the same right, the same obligation as our forebears to declare the despotism, the tyranny and the failure of our Federal Government as unacceptable. It is without doubt our responsibility to undertake to overthrow the current power structure and replace our Bad Government with one that is better and more effective for ALL Citizens. I believe with my entire being that we, the people, the governed, from which our government derives all its just powers must institute the philosophy and process of Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government of Common Sense, by Common People, for Common Good.

How will Humanistic Equalism change America? How will it effect the purpose and function of our government? In my next posting I will begin to address these questions. If you have a comment please make it, use the link below to email this to a friend or an enemy, add "Shift of Power" to your "favorites" or "Bookmarks" and if you have a moment rate this blog using the button located at the bottom of the right panel. Give peace a chance.
James B. Tinsley, B.A.

UNITED STATES ECONOMY-RECORD OIL AND GAS PRICES-ZIMBABWE-TORTURE-WAR FUNDING

2008-06-27T12:44:00.006-05:00

27 June 2008

Due to the recent sudden death of long time close friend Dennis Fecher I have been doing battle with depression in addition to working through the usual grieving process. As a result I have found it difficult to write or do much of anything for very long...I keep thinking "what is the point?" Singer/songwriter Tom Waits, my favorite living recording artist, observes in one of his songs that (I am paraphrasing), "all the good in the world can be placed inside a thimble and there would still be room for you and me," and, "there is one thing you can say about mankind; there is nothing kind about man." This is precisely how I have been feeling lately. But, the truth is that if I am going to continue living, as long as I am alive and cognizant, it is my human obligation to do what little I can to make every possible effort and use any limited ability that I may possess to promote and enable human happiness and progress. With this thought in mind it is time to continue exposing and explaining Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government.

In 1792 French philosopher, C. F. Volney, published the conclusions of his exhaustive multi-year research and study regarding what makes a nation or empire strong, healthy, and prosperous, and what brings about decline and dissolution. In his work entitled, The Ruins of Empires, Volney writes:

"And this spirit of egotism and usurpation produced two effects equally operative and fatal. One is a division and subdivision of societies into their smallest fractions. The other a pressuring tendency to concentrate power in a single hand. ..This has in all instances been the constant progress of societies."

In other words, according to observable and verifiable historical evidence, as leadership and government become increasingly egotistical and arrogant ultimately seizing power by force and denying citizens their rights, there are always two fatal results; the people are divided against each other and this creates pressure to give all control to a small elite minority faction. This ruling minority is usually the super-rich and powerful. This process has been constant and consistent throughout the history of human civilization and continues today, even at this very moment.

What is the driving force of this process? What is it that creates the condition for and causes nations and empires to always progress in this manner, to always decline, ultimately fail and fade from prominence?

In my original manuscript, Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government of Common Sense, by Common People, for Common Good, I state unequivocally that, "Religion and its influence are the source of failure for all governments, and all nations." I realize this statement sounds way over the top, outlandish and too simplistic for most people to accept. However, I believe it is true and that I can prove it. At least I can prove it logically, but because I want to use this posting to delve deeper into the rationale for the development of Humanistic Equalism and begin laying the foundation of my overall argument, I will not present the proof of my reasoning at this time.

First, concerning the rationale for Humanistic Equalism. It is undeniably obvious that there have been, and are, two fundamental and tremendously import elements or qualities that the United States of America lacks; humanness and equality. By that I mean that for all the rhetoric one hears, in spite of the extensive effort by historians, and more than two hundred years of exhaustive education about America as the "shining city on the hill"- a new and different system of government, an experiment in democracy of, by and for the people-the truth is that the United States system of government is an instrument of the wealthy and powerful elite minority faction. Yes, there have been very brief periods when a seemingly overwhelming majority of citizens came together for the benefit of common working people and the poor. But all such movements ultimately failed because from the time of the Constitutional Convention until today the ruling faction has given just enough rights, liberty and benefit to enough of the so-called middle-class so as to garner support, maintain the Status Quo and quash widespread demand for radical change. The United States is, in effect, no different than any type or system of government that has ever existed.

Again, a statement that at first glance appears to be without merit and ridiculous. I guess in some limited ways it might be, but when examined honestly and in detail the overall conclusion must be that when one gets to the bottom line citizens in America are only as "free" as the government allows us to be. There is no doubt that even a poor common person can become wealthy and powerful in America given the right circumstances, but the same has been, and is, true in all nations and under all systems of government. Regardless of whether that government is theocracy, divine monarchy, anarchy, despotism, tyranny, dictator, fascist, socialist, or communist. Given the right set of circumstances a poor Jewish Austrian can rise to near world domination and an average peanut farmer from Georgia can become president of the United States. The point is that, regarding our nations lack of humanness, America, like every nation that has ever come to power subjugates and exploits the average citizen, the poor, the immigrant and the displaced in favor of property, profit, power and position.

Since I have already written several posts concerning equality, that is to say, absolutely equal status, privileges, and rights for all citizens and will undoubtedly devote much more attention to it over time, I will only say here that true equality has never been any part of life in America. Although I do find it very interesting that equality is so closely associated with and related to the United States. Not only in its teaching of American history but around the world. Or, at least it was until the administration of Bush II.

So, after nearly thirty years of reading, research, discussion and debate, it became unmistakeably clear that in order to fundamentally change America and its future, in order to stop our country's inexorable progress towards decline and eventual failure requires a system and process of government predicated strictly and foremost on its living citizens and absolutely equal status, privileges, and rights for ALL citizens without exception; thus, Humanistic Equalism. Therefore, I will argue that our only best hope going forward is to overthrow the present broken and corrupt body of government in America, and institute the system and process described by Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government.

Please, let me know any thoughts you may have. Send this post to a friend or enemy using the link below, and if there is time in your schedule rate this page by clicking the button at the bottom of the right panel. I am feeling somewhat better after communicating with you and look forward to continuing soon. Give Peace a chance.
James B. Tinsley, B.A.

WHAT IS THE PURPOSEOF HUMAN LIFE? LIVING AND BEING HAPPY.

2008-06-16T14:37:00.004-05:00

16 June 2008

And so it goes. This past weekend(13 June-thru 15 June 2008) two men I thought of as friends died. NBC "Meet The Press" anchor, Tim Russert, experienced a fatal heart attack; Dr. Dennis Fecher was diagnosed with lung cancer in November 2007. One friend, Dennis Fecher, I knew intimately and for nearly thirty years; the other, Tim Russert, I knew only as millions of viewers over the past seventeen years have known him, as an honest reliable man. Dennis Fecher was a person of great intellect, of science and reason; Tim Russert also possessed a high degree of intellect, was a man of religious faith and reason. I will miss them both for vastly different reasons; one I only met with vicariously, the other I hugged goodbye when parting company last Saturday afternoon 14 June 2008. Because both of these men were an ongoing source of inspiration, encouragement, and challenge, because both men were given to promote human progress, the improvement of government and life, and most importantly, to a better quality of living; because the people that know these two men testify as to their exuberance for family, work and to living every minute of evry day, I wish to dedicate this posting regarding the definition of Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government.
In loving memory of Dr. Dennis R. Fecher and Tim Russert.

HUMANISTIC EQUALISM:(noun) Philosophy, system, and process concerning the ethical conduct of government within society arising from the intrinsic inherent value and dignity of human life conjoined with absolute equality.
A philosophy of politics and government reasoned as follows:
Given that, within a societal context, the value and dignity of citizens' lives are intrinsic, inherent and inarguable. And, given that within the same societal context, the benefit gained and value added by guaranteeing absolutely equal status, privileges, and rights to all citizens is undeniable. It may therefore be concluded that a philosophy, system, and process of government based exclusively on human progress and absolute equality must of necessity be an ethical government.

In other words, if the philosophical underpinnings of a government system and process are focused entirely on that which will enhance and improve the lives and living conditions of all citizens; and if government "sees" and deals with every citizen absolutely equally, then the end result must be a government that is truly ethical in all its function, activity and conduct.

I realize that it is hard to believe, but in all of human history there has never been a government system or any kind of controlling authority or body created and instituted based first and foremost on people and equality. No known government in all the annals of mankind ever elevated the people over property, profit, power, and position. Not one.

Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government is a genuinely new proposal for politics and government. Others, such as Locke, Hume, and Rousseau, assert the "social contract," the citizens' real value, and the need for those governed to give consent along with the tremendous amount of power they possess; but none go so far as to say that the only acceptable reason for and purpose of government is the progress and prosperity of its citizens. And I have not found any evidence that guaranteeing absolutely equal status, privileges, and rights to ALL citizens has ever been seriously discussed with regard to the way government treats the people it serves. In fact, the idea of government serving citizens in any form or fashion is only as old as the United States of America.
I submit that Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government is the next logical adaptation in the evolutionary process concerning systems of government. I would like to know any thoughts someone may have and encourage all to make a comment. More to come soon. Give Peace a chance.
James B. Tinsley, B.A.

POINT OF ORIGIN

2008-06-11T08:08:00.004-05:00

11 June 2008

When I find myself wandering around my mind, unsure about which direction to go or what exactly I should, or need, to do next I usually return to the point of origin. Well, I realized recently that I was out there wandering aimlessly around my mind so I am now returning to my original point. I began recording this blog, Shift Of Power, in early April 2008 in order to inform, explain, provoke and promote.

I developed and committed to the written word what I believe to be a new philosophy for politics and government, Humanitstic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government of Common Sense, by Common People, for Common Good. (All rights reserved, 2007.) Due to circumstance of birth, decisions made, and the realities of life at the beginning of the 21st century it occurred to me that there was little if any possibility these ideas, this philosophy and unique new approach to politics and the conduct of government could be or, would be, injected into the vein of public discourse and debate. In other words because I am poor, unknown and without "connections"; because the ideas are disturbingly radical, the premise sound and reasoning rational, and finally because everything that Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government implies represents a genuine threat to promoters and defenders of the Status Quo, this new plan with potential would remain nothing more than a madman's exhortation into the wind. Ah, but vanity is a powerful stimulant while need necessitates invention and creation. Thus, Shift Of Power came to be.

In my mind I envision this blog as the means by which I can put Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government on the public record within the market place of ideas. I can use the blog to inform anyone that may be interested about the philosophy's existence, explain it, and provoke disagreement, discussion and debate in an effort to further refine the philosophy, system, and process as a result of readers input over time. I imagined that if the blog was successful I could somehow find a way of publishing or having published my original manuscript, then after twelve or fourteen months of exchange with blog readers, of making my argument and taking yours into consideration, would then re-write Humanistic Equalism and issue a second edition with revisions based on readers input.

Obviously I was idealistically and blissfully ignorant about the realities regarding the universe of websites and blogosphere. It is a lot tougher out here than I thought or would have believed it to be. Even though at times I struggle against the youthful forces of impatience and impetuosity, still think that I am a young raging bull wanting everything to happen right now. I am fully aware that I am an old bull-oh, I still want everything that I want, only now I know the most action, most success and satisfaction is simply a matter of time. As the southern rockers, Little Feat, said, "Thing happen in their own sweet time." All I have, all any of us really ever truly have that is ours and ours alone is time and that which we love.

The point I am making is that by returning to the origin of Shift Of Power, by exercising patience and by doing what I want to do for as long as it takes or until I die, which ever comes first. Eventually the idea and meaning, the truthfulness and possibilities espoused and revealed by Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government will become known. I know that if it is what I am convinced that it is-the next logical adaptation in the evolution of government, the first new type and approach to the institution and conduct of government system and process offered in more than five thousand years- if Huanistic Equalism is true and valid it will be adopted at some point in time. If it is not what I think that it is, it will be exposed, discarded, and disappear.

In a few days I will present the "official" definition of Huamnistic Equalism and begin explaining the premise and reasoning that the philosophy, as well, subsequent system and process for Humanistic Equalism government is based. Until then feel free to leave a comment, email this blog to a friend or enemy, rate this blog, and save it to your favorites or bookmarks. Remember, the mind necessarily clings to old ideas until prepared for the new. Give Peace a chance.
James B. Tinsley, B.A.

YALE GRADUATE REMAINS STUPID

2008-06-05T13:23:00.004-05:00

5 June 2008

Happy Birthday to Teri Barber Sharum!
Bobby Kennedy was assassinated, Los Angeles, Ca. 1968

The cycle rolls on.

I believe myself to be a person of reason. I believe that anger is a waste of time and energy, that lamenting about wouldda, shouldda, couldda issues are self-serving rationalization and destructively distracting. I abhor ad homonym language and commentary, character assault and stupidity. It is a rare moment when I will engage in making an outright blatant and unreasonable remark about another person. This is, unfortunately, such a moment.

George W. Bush, president of the United States and Yale University graduate is too stupid. Yes, I know that he is not, generally speaking, STUPID; and knowing that is what makes my calling him too stupid an unreasonable statement- one that is not based upon reason. After all he was smart enough to hire Karl Rove, Al Gonzales, Condi Rice, et al. So the question to be answered is, why would a person of reason that knows better, say something like this?

My sources for news and information on a daily basis are at present BBC World Source, NPR "Morning Edition", Democracy Now "The War and Peace Report- all at my computer; on television, PBS-The News Hour. So, the other night(on or about 1 or 2 June)I am watching The News Hour, the story is about Bush II declaring that he will veto a "Carbon Emissions-Cap and Trade" bill currently be debated in congress. They cut to a sound-bite of Bush II speaking before some group and the president remarks that (and I must paraphrase),he will veto the legislation because of the amount of debt it would create, that he just could not justify putting that kind of a burden on future generations- he said that he simply will not do it.

The first thing out my my mouth was, "man, this guy is just too stupid!" I am continually amazed at this man-our president- and his adeptness at being stupid. It is almost like he is a stupid-savant, someone born possessing an extraordinary natural talent or gift for stupid. One of the gifted-stupid. It is certainly fortunate he was born Caucasian and to a wealthy family. If he had been poor white-trash, white working class or black he would just be thought of as another dumb red-neck, or stupid
ni--er. Like that commercial says,"a little tweak can make a world of difference." Rich and stupid, no limit; poor and stupid, tuff luck.

What so enraged me is that Bush II adamantly declares his opposition to a bill that is at least an effort to acknowledge the issue of climate change and create debate and discussion by congress. Something that, as anyone knows, it has until recently refused to do. The primary reason he gives is one that feigns concern for future generations being strapped with unnecessary and burdensome debt. What makes me call him too stupid, is the fact that he and his administration have cheerfully, willingly and proudly already borrowed the complete up-front cost of our war against terrorism, civil and human rights in Afghanistan, Iraq, the United States, and other parts of the world. Nearly one TRILLION dollars at the end of FY2007. And that is just the amount that can be found in public records.

According to various sources such as War Resistance, the Seattle Times and others, as of the end of 2007 right at one trillion dollars had been borrowed to finance America's fear, defense industry and security contractors. If the interest payment is added to the amount borrowed so far every person in the United States currently starts every day nearly $500.00 in debt. It does not sound like much, but just take a minute and think. EVERYONE-every man, woman and child, every newborn, every person about to die, CEO's and junkies, Beauty Queens, feminists and hookers. Everybody starts every day and, as a citizen, owes $500.00 for money our government borrowed and spent.

Money spent on something that is impossible to achieve and is in reality an illusion; security. Security, like God, like Heaven and eternal life and promises of mercy and forgiveness; like miracle and the inspired "word of God"; like hell and demons and Armageddon, the Rapture, Allah and Mohammed's dreams. All this crap is an illusion created by the fear in our minds, by our imagination, by fraud and by lies. So, for Bush II to proclaim his determined opposition to anything due to a concern about the burdens of excessive debt on future generations is, in my humble opinion, too stupid. Go Yale...

Do not forget to email this to a friend or enemy using the link below, save this blog in your favorites or bookmarks, rate this blog bottom right hand panel, and leave a comment. More soon...Give Peace a chance.
James B. Tinsley, B.A.

FRUSTRATION > DESOLATION IGNTE INSPIRATION

2008-05-29T13:19:00.004-05:00

29 May 2008

I just watched a very good interview on Democracy Now; Juan Gonzalez interviewed author historian Tariq Ali for more than half the hour. I recommend that people check it out at www.democracynow.org

Mr. Ali has a new book entitled, Street Fighting Years. It is his historical observation regarding the 1960's. The !960's, of course, is, as I have noted before, when I began to awaken from the slumber and relative security of childhood and adolescence. It was rock-and-roll, radical ideas and revolution; the 1960's was sex, good drugs, imagination, dreams , hope; and it was oppression, suffering, violence, despair, frustration and desolation. And I am only speaking of what the 1960's were in the United States.

There was a whole bunch of stuff going on around the world. Big stuff! Social and political revolutions in all of Western Europe, parts of the Soviet Union, in the Middle East, Latin America, the Caribbean and Mexico. Knowing about these things, about events and struggles happening in places other than the quasi-revolution that occurred in the United States, having knowledge of history is so damned important. It is perhaps one of the most powerful weapons, cunning strategies and overwhelming tactics citizens possess collectively. In any age in any country informed engaged involved citizens that have awareness and understanding of not only their own history, but the history of others have the greatest amount of control and authority over government action and function.

Unfortunately, this condition does not exist very often, or for very long. It is no secret that most American citizens-people born here-know just shy of diddly-squat about our country's history, and even less about the rest of the world. And, as a matter of fact, the history a great many Americans do know is the Caucasian Protestant Mythological account. You know exactly what I am referring to; White is Right, Jesus is Lord and protector of the United States-that there is no question but that God is on OUR side.

The story about Columbus discovering America, Pilgrims coming for religious freedom, a Declaration of Independence and The Rebellion; The American Revolution for life, liberty, and the individual pursuit of happiness. The thrilling story about a new kind of government, a wonderful and unbelievable Constitution in a new nation. One in which all are equal before the law, justice, personal liberty, speech and expression were guaranteed and outside the reach of government. Yes, according to the myth, The United States of America is indeed God's country. Well, much to our chagrin, and my sadness, this nation has been, and presently is God's country.

To be quite honest God can have the country, but He needs to get out of our government, and stay out. The true purpose and only reason for government is to serve, uphold and promote all citizens equally. Government derives its just power from the consent of the governed- the people its citizens; conversely, the people the citizens- the governed are obliged to exercise the full force and scope of their power. I am convinced this can only become animated and true when there is a shift of power away from profit, power, position and piety in law and government. And with a shift of power, focus and attention toward human beings, that is to say, the governed- the people our citizens. Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government contains the foundation, facts, system and process necessary to achieve this Shift In Power.

Don't forget to send this to a friend or an enemy, save this blog to your favorites or bookmarks, rate this blog using the button at the bottom of the right side panel, and leave your comment. More to come soon...Give Peace a chance.
James B. Tinsley,B.A.

MEMORY - MENDACITY - MEMORIAL

2008-05-27T13:44:00.005-05:00

27 May 2008

When I noted on 22 May that I was adopting a "blog upon inspiration" process in the hope of creating a more spontaneous and dynamic environment I fully expected to be here somewhat more frequently, and certainly before now. Although no "comments" have yet been made regarding my previous posts, I am happy to say that I made two new "friends" at Blog Catalog over the weekend; catatonickid and ditto (I think that spelling is right?) if not I will correct it. Speaking of friends and Blog Catalog, if any reader is so inclined they can rate this blog using the widget below at the right side. Readers are also free to use the email-this-blog link at the end of the post to send a copy of this to friends and enemies alike. Of course at some point I would really like it if people started leaving comments. Maybe I should be careful about what I wish for.

I do not know about others, but from time to time I have an experience that I refer to as the 'turning of the cosmic kaleidoscope.' For those who do not know, a kaleidoscope is usually a monocular 'spy glass' type instrument that has sand or glass-some sort of colored crystal-like substances in one end. A person looking through the opposite end while holding it up to the light and turning the section containing the crystals can watch new symmetrical patterns appear as they tumble. This tumbling and creating new symmetrical patterns is the best description of what I experience.

It occurs completely unexpected and randomly. The best that I can describe what happens is to say, whatever variable that sets the kaleidoscope in my brain in motion, for as long a time as I have-given the circumstances of the moment-to "space out" and let my mind go, dots connect, things, events and perceptions normally tumbling around in my thoughts come to rest. For a very brief time a new pattern becomes vivid and clear- a new symmetry emerges. I tell you all this because what I have deduced over the years that I have been conscious of this experience is that when it happens change of significant proportion is in progress. That is to say, though big changes-either personally or within a larger social context- may not be visible or even perceived by myself or others, is in motion-already happening.

I do not 'see the future', it is more like multiple epiphanies, putting the last piece in the jigsaw puzzle, or filling in the last word of the crossword puzzle. So, this thing that happens is, to me, a moment where my brain finishes assimilating a bunch of information it has been gathering from perception throughout my conscious life and, if I am paying attention, I get a glimpse at the solution of that one process. By now I am sure one who is reading this cannot help but wonder, "What does all this have to do with Memory-Mendacity-Memorial?"

To be perfectly frank I am not completely certain. However, during this past Memorial Day weekend there came a moment when, out of the 'blue', I remarked out loud to my animals, "Things have changed." When that statement spontaneously erupts the "kaleidoscope experience" could happen at any time. It is kind of a precursor that I have become aware of over the years. The point is that what ever is going to change is already a done deal, it is happening now and will become reality. I just realized how psycho-psychic voodoo Ouija board that sounds. But that is not what I mean, or believe, or am saying in any way.

I do know that a lot of well-known people have been dying-Utah Phillips, Sydney Pollock, Dick Martin. Tens of thousands have died in Burma and China; they continuing dying in droves in Dar fur; South Africans are doing quite a bit of killing. Of course there is always a lot of killing going on throughout the Middle East; its a veritable kill-a-palooza in that part of the world every day. America is doing a lot of killing-either directly or indirectly. One thing is for sure if there is a buck to be made United States interests are involved up close and personal or by proxy.

More evidence that a significant shift in symmetry is ongoing is the slow fade to black by the Clinton campaign combined with the sound of 'general election' machinery being cranked up as the forces of the Status Quo gear up to protect profit, property, position and power currently held by America's pseudo-aristocracy of elite minority faction rule. Before I go I will tell you what my greatest fear is concerning this years presidential election.

I am convinced that, barring any unforeseen event or variable, Barrack OBama will be our next president and democrats will command a secure majority in both houses of congress. Notwithstanding this, my biggest fear and concern is the blow-back that will take place when the millions of young voters, and those who returned to participate in our election process after years or maybe a lifetime of disenfranchisement-and I include Mr. OBama among this number- when it becomes clear and they fully realize that any so-called "change" that may be the result of this historical election cycle will be nothing more than cosmetic, a slight adjustment in perception or interpretation of the rules and how they apply. When this occurs if citizens react as they have in the past and extricate themselves from the process to focus on self-interest this will, in my humble estimate, signal that the United States of America has reached the point of inevitable decline, that our nation's failure is no longer a question of "if" but "when."

If we do not change our system of government to one that exists solely to serve all citizens absolutely equally in an unqualified ethical manner; if we are unable to elevate our living citizens to a higher priority, see and treat citizens as being of greater value than profit, property, position or power; and unless our government and society begin to love people more than we fear God, attend to the affairs of this world this life and stop allowing the worship of a tyrant in heaven to integrate with and undermine our Constitutional foundation our fate is sealed. If average citizens of America fail to do these things with in the next 25 years-give or take a decade-this nation must continue its decline and will fail. It will no longer be recognizable as what we now think of and know as the United States of America.

Let me know your thoughts. Leave a comment. I will appreciate it. Have a great week, we will continue exploring a Shift of Power soon. Give Peace a chance.
James B. Tinsley, B.A.

LAND OF THE CRUEL-HOME OF THE ELITE:HEALTHCARE PART III

2008-05-22T07:19:00.004-05:00

22 May 2008

Before diving into and wrapping up this initial discussion about absolute equality and why the United States not only can, but must, begin as soon as possible to provide all citizens with free health care I must tell some thoughts that have been rumbling around my brain in the past few days.

I am more than a little frustrated that I cannot generate more interest in this blog, or inspire those that do stop by to make some comment. I have certainly tried. It is, I have concluded, for various reasons that I will not go into, but suffice to say, it is most likely due to my own ignorance about what makes a blog attractive to others. So, going forward from this post I am going to try a different tack. I will be posting more often-when the inspiration hits me,- I will try to "lighten up," and I will do my best to stop being so erudite and preachy, academic and educational. In other words, to be more spontaneous.

For example, normally I pre-write my post and the post I wrote for today is almost four handwritten pages, but instead of using it, I will simply tell you what is on my mind regarding the stupidity and cruelty of allowing more than fifty million people in America to be denied or unable to receive all the health care needed for a relatively happy and productive life.

As stated in my last post in support of Bloggers Unite for Human Rights the seed at the core of all human cruelty and suffering is religion. In America it is Christian orthodoxy. In all the annals of mankind, no God has ever succored those that are truly innocent, the weak or the oppressed. There is absolute no credible evidence that any God has ever been more than a phantom created and perpetuated within and by the human mind. The majority of Christians, at least those that claim to be "true" or "real" Christian believers, are not kind, loving and gentle. They have been throughout history the most aggressive, heartless, shameful hypocrites, bigots, and anti-human happiness force ever known.

How many times have we said, or heard said, that our children and future generations are our greatest treasure; that we must do this or that for our children and grand-children? How can any Christian, or any person for that matter, make such a declaration and yet refuse to insist upon providing every child of American citizens with all the free health care that is required throughout the course of a lifetime? How is it possible for any person that lays claim to the idea that Christ or Jehovah is their lord and savior even entertain the idea that caring for all our citizens health is wrong, or that it should be available only in exchange for money? How can there be any rationalization or justification by wealthy corporate executives, powerful politicians and influential preachers and pundits that say they are believers in the glory of God and mercy of Christ; who righteously proclaim that profit and property are more valuable than people and take precedent over the well-being of all our citizens is any part of the Bible or their Christian convictions?

The truth is, it is all a fraud and a lie. It is the most glaring and obvious indication that, in spite of all our discovery, invention, mechanical development and technological advance; in spite of everything mankind has achieved in the past five thousand years, the relative comfort and material wealth we have accumulated and possess, people have not evolved and progressed, have not changed. That is to say, humans treat each other almost exactly the same as we always have. If one thinks differently, believes differently, comes from some place else, acts or talks in an unfamiliar manner or language, or belongs to that "other" group or race, then they must be regarded with suspicion, ostracized, and if they give the slightest indication they may be threat to the Status Quo they must be neutralized, eliminated-KILLED.

In the past five thousand years, or more, there have been three constants concerning civilization that have not evolved or changed, that exert dominance and control over the way people think and act toward each other: RELIGION, GOVERNMENT, and GREED. The last two arise from the first. Political correctness, humanitarian effort or movements, so-called democracies and republics declared to be of the people, by the people, and for the people, Christian "charities" (I place quotes around the word because Christians do not give any thing away-there is always a price, a payment to be made)- none of these things, or rather all of these things are a chimera, illusions people have conjured up to show how the human race is no longer a cruel and barbaric species. All people believe humanity is more advanced, that we are truly clever, classless, and free-especially in the United States. But the human race in 2008 is not, at its most fundamental level, in any real and demonstrable way different from our most ignorant ancient and savage ancestors.

Though we may indeed be more sophisticated, more knowledgeable, more devious, destructive and somewhat better fed than all those that came before us. There is no indication, no verifiable evidence that we, as a species, are more compassionate, more loving and understanding, and certainly we are no more humane. In spite of everything, human beings have failed to cultivate humanness. This is what lead me to create, organize and develop Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government, the reason I wrote it into a manuscript and started this blog.

I know that government, religion, or force are not capable of changing the nature of people, of making us better or really improving the terms and conditions of life. Only we humans can do that. But if we did have a system and process of government that existed exclusively to protect and promote improvement of conditions in which people live, the advancement of humane and human society, and dedicated to establishing human happiness; a government that acted, functioned, and treated all citizens absolutely equal, and that required unqualified ethical conduct within its institutions and agencies. If we had government that strictly prohibited and precluded the overt or covert influence of any religious dogma, doctrine or creed upon its policies and laws; and one that considered property and profit as the product and means not the purpose and ends of government, we will stand a better chance of substantive, measurable and lasting evolutionary growth and development as a species, as a culture and society.

Our only hope, our only true path to redemption and salvation depends entirely upon us. The entire future of all mankind, all the grand victories and aspirations of the world must be accomplished and achieved by humanity, and humanity alone.

If do not agree, or if you do; if you agree or disagree only somewhat, say so. Leave a comment, do not be afraid or shy-speak up! You can send this to a friend (or enemy) using the email icon below. Save this blog to your favorites or bookmarks or blog roll, tell someone about Shift Of Power. Please come back to visit. And, if you are so inclined, you can rate this blog using the button at the bottom of the side panel. I look forward to our next visit! Give Peace a chance.
James B. Tinsley, B.A.

HUMAN RIGHTS SUPERCEDE THOSE OF ANY SO-CALLED GOD

2008-05-15T10:33:00.004-05:00

15 May 2008
A special post: BLOGGERSUNITE FOR HUMAN RIGHTS

Although I had intended to continue a series of postings concerning the absence of absolute equality and the lack of adequate affordable health care in the United States, which is, in my opinion, a clear demonstration of America's own Human Rights failure. I am compelled to deviate from that and contribute what little I can to the effort of Blog Catalog and Amnesty International, along with thousands of other concerned citizens and people around the world to elevate awareness of the ongoing and inexcusable Human Rights violations being committed on every continent and by every nation on earth.

Nearly all of the topics listed as the focus of today's event, and those listed on the Amnesty International web page are the deceptive fruit upon the branches of one huge ugly tree whose trunk extends from a single root germinated from a seed planted at the beginning of Human civilization. I am, of course, talking about the poisonous tree of Religion, the unnatural worship and subjugation by people to some supposed being, intelligence, or power that is believed to be infinite and supreme.

"But wait," says the religionist, "My religion, my God, my Christ, the Allah or Buddha I believe in, is the source of all that is love and mercy, forgiveness and redemption, salvation and hope." Even those that do not necessarily "believe," "practice," or "support" any particular doctrine or creed still cannot bring themselves to denounce or deny the the existence of some power, some thing, that is beyond or greater than humans ability to comprehend and understand. Very few people in the world can face the facts and admit that, as far as we can discern, there is no greater force or higher intelligence than human force and human intelligence. Yet, it is true. There is absolutely nothing in the entire universe more valuable than a living human being. The fact is that everything people regard as having value is made valuable because of and by human beings. Without humans even a God is worthless.

The fundamental perception and general belief is that corrupt governments, cruel dictators, authoritarian military juntas or ego maniacal tyrants are responsible for locking up someone for their political expression, or for reporting on the neglect and abuse of groups or whole segments of a country's population. Most people believe that it is a president or congress, prime minister or parliament, supreme council or renegade revolutionary that conducts war on terrorism, profiles certain racial, ethnic or sexually oriented individuals or organizations, targeting them for arrest and torture in places like Guantanamo prison, Palestine, Pakistan, Iraq, Manhatten, or Texas. Many believe that it is greedy multi-national corporations, ideological think tanks,or resource seeking empires that give arms and support to killers, thugs, and thieves in order to suppress the desires of locals or oppress popular movements for reform and justice.

But corrupt governments, pseudo-aristocratic legislators, military rulers, dictators and tyrants; corporations, think tanks, empires and thugs are only a symptom of the real disease. They are physical manifestation, the sores of the leprosy, the bloated stomach of starvation; the gang rape of a young child. The actual source of the infection, the virus, the germ or act of defilement; the true progenitor of the plague that is the experience of all abuses and violations of the basic rights of every living human being is belief in some infinitely wise, powerful and beneficent God or power or force who is superior to and independent of nature.

Famine is not caused by some enraged and revengeful deity, sickness is not produced as punishment, no God has ever intervened in behalf of the weak and innocent. There is a vast difference between religion and justice, worshipers of the same God take delight in cutting each other's throats, and no God at any time interferes with the order of events. The civilization of humanity and the recognition and acknowledgement of the rights of humans has, throughout history, increased just to the same extent that religious power has decreased.

In support of the real ends of life: absolute equality, liberty- of thought, action and expression; that every human being be granted the same rights as every other human being, and to render some small service to the cause of human rights, progress and happiness I submit these remarks and commit my energy and time. It is better to love humans than to fear God. Give Peace a chance.
James B. Tinsley, B.A.

EQUALITY AND GOOD HEALTH: UNAMERICAN PART II

2008-05-10T07:20:00.003-05:00

10 May 2008

Last time the focus was primarily on equality-Absolute Equality to be specific. It should now be perfectly clear that, in so far as government policy, function, and conduct, all citizens must be seen and treated as having absolutely equal status, privileges, and rights. I submit that this is especially true with citizen health concerns.

"We have to solve this or that problem, not only for us now, but more importantly, for our children. Our children and grand-children are America's hope for the future and our greatest treasure." It is safe to say that most of us will hear, or maybe even say something to this effect nearly every week.

Let me ask you some questions, and I must demand that you be honest with yourself and your answers. Do we as citizens-does our government-make policy, function or conduct business and governance consistent with this statement or its sentiment? Do we, on a day-to-day basis, make plans and decisions with our children and future generations foremost in our thinking? Do we, as a people, as a nation, really believe that our posterity is our most precious and valuable treasure and asset? Or, are such statements and declarations about a deep concern for the well being of those to come after us, nothing more than religious and political rhetoric employed to manipulate American citizens by creating fear?

Reader's that are intellectually and emotionally honest cannot defend America's history or present day actions. They must admit the overwhelming majority of decisions and actions we take are motivated by egotism, by self-interest and profit, comfort and convenience. There is no credible evidence that our citizens or government has ever consistently created policy, functioned, or conducted our affairs on behalf of future generations. Yes, there have been occasional brief moments and some limited policies and programs ostensibly enacted and promoted with future generations in mind, but, if examined closely one discovers that, as a result of compromise, the real motivation is always profit, power and position. American hypocrisy is appalling and shameful.

To my mind, if we and our government truly believe that our children and grand-children are our most precious and valuable asset and treasure, we would have been providing free health care to all citizens from the beginning, or at least for the last fifty years. Why is this even an issue? Why do we fight tooth and nail to resist any attempts to cultivate a healthy population? The answer is complicated and I will address it in my next posting. For the moment I want to concentrate on two factors that, as far as I am aware, have never really been part of the debate. Both factors concern aspects of health care cost.

First, with regard to the total amount of money our federal government currently spends on health care and health related matters. To be honest, I do not know, nobody does. I have been actively trying to put all the numbers together for more than four years. It is possible to find figures for some of the larger expenditures such as medicare, medicaid, social security disability, veteran's administration, etc., but not the total amount for all health related spending.

There are a plethora of smaller unknown extensions, exceptions, sub-programs and grant aid. Not to mention what government gives to universities, private industry, and hospitals for research and development. Something that I have never heard or seen correlated to health care spending or included in the debate. There is a great deal of spending, either outright or as part of tax legislation, that most Americans have no idea even exists. As a result I have found it impossible to calculate even a 'ballpark' figure for the amount of money currently being spent by our federal government on all health and care related programs and activities. Maybe a reader will know and share it with us.

The point is, I am convinced that if we took ALL the money currently being paid out by government and put it all in one pile, there would be more than enough cash to pay for every citizen to have the best health care from conception to coffin. In addition, if every citizen-private and corporate- that should pay taxes actually paid them; or if, as in my proposal for Equal Taxation, those that qualified paid an equal percentage of their taxable income or profit, there would be plenty of money to ensure all citizens absolutely equal status, privileges, and rights regarding health care.

This brings us to the second factor that, so far as I know, has never been raised or elaborated on. Has anyone ever considered that, even if all the chaos and devastation predicted by those that have prevented the United States from providing free unlimited health care to our citizens came true in the short term, they would be resolved and begin to reverse within one full generation-about 18 to 20 years? But only if the care is conception to coffin with no restrictions. Why is this true?

Because by the time the first full generation of citizens that have received all the necessary care one needs throughout the course of a lifetime is giving way to the second generation two things will have happened. One result is that the paradigm for health care in America will be completely inverted. In other words, our health care system and everything related to it will become one of prevention and preemption, rather than the reactive treatment, management and emergency system we now have. Nearly 100% of medical care in the United States today is reacting to illness after we are sick; it is treating and managing illness and making emergency repair. Ask any physician. In the United States we do not "cure" disease, we treat, we manage and we delay the full effect-for the moment.

Yes, there is a minuscule amount of time, money, and effort now directed toward prevention. More than ever before. But compared to the whole, it is in effect, nothing. Imagine if two or three hundred billion, or two trillion dollars was invested every year for 18 to 20 years to create and maintain a healthy population. Within one full generation many of our current medical crises and so-called epidemics,such as obesity, diabetes, chronic heart disease, even malnutrition could be resolved, eliminated. If this nation produced one full generation in which ALL citizens received complete and unlimited care from conception to coffin many, if not most, of the health related problems and maladies we have been battling-some for a hundred years or more,- would disappear. Thus, the real cost of all heath related expense becomes dramatically lower.

By the end of the second full generation to be born and live under these conditions-about 50 years or so- disease and sickness would be the exception. If all our population is able to become more healthy with each successive generation, with science and medicine being able to advance more broadly and consistently in concert with the shifting paradigm, citizens will be progressively more vigorous and healthy. The question we must now answer is: Do we want to continue to live in a sick and unhealthy nation where one's potential and good hea;th is determined by the circumstance of birth; depends upon whether one is born into wealth or poverty?

Please give this question, and the ideas presented here some thought. Make a comment and tell me what you think. If you like, you can send this article to a friend using the email link below. While you are here take a second and add this blog to your "Favorites," or "Bookmarks." And, if you are so inclined, you can rate this blog by clicking on one of the buttons to the right.

We will continue this discussion next time. I will delve deeper into why we are so cruel to one another; why we say one thing and do another; why we act contrary to our own best interest, and, most importantly, why health insurance companies and so-called "health care providers" must be eliminated and then outlawed from any future existence in America. Give Peace a chance.
James B. Tinsley, B.A.

ABSOLUTE EQUALITY - HEALTHY CITIZENS: APPARENTLY UNAMERICAN

2008-05-05T09:24:00.008-05:00

5 May 2008

Is inequality the price we pay for civilization?

Most everyone confuses FAIR with EQUAL. We are told early on that, "life is not fair," which is no doubt a true statement. Neither life, nor society is fair; never has been, never will be. It must follow then, that if life and society is not fair, neither can be equal. FAIR and EQUAL are two very different ideas, and Equalism is not about fair.

In an April post I briefly approached the subject of absolute equality and Equalism. What is Equalism? To start with it is the second principle in the philosophical doctrine of Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Conduct of Government. It is, perhaps, the keystone in the arch of a Humanistic approach to government and politics. I will define it for readers more precisely.

"ism" is a suffix added to the end of a root word that means action, process, or characteristic behavior. It is a state or quality that can imply doctrine, theory, or a system of principles. Therefore, in the specific context of Humanistic Equalism, when "ism" is added to the root word equal, creating the term Equalism, the meaning is narrowly defined as describing the active practice and process concerning the doctrine and principle of equal, or equality. In other words, Equalism, is a system whereby absolute equality is actively applied.

When I was researching the word "equal" I discovered an interesting notation that turned out to be extremely important in crafting the narrow focus of this new term Equalism as it applies within the context of Humanistic Equalism. The notation to which I refer points out that until very recently the word equal has always been considered in terms of absolute equal -that two or more things were either equal or they were not. However the advance of Relativism seems to have thrown the "absolute" nature of equal into question. Therefore, so that readers have no doubt upon the matter, I chose to reclaim the traditional "absolute" nature of equal for use in regard to this newly developed political philosophy, wherein, Equalism means absolutely equal.

It means absolutely equal status, privileges, and rights for every citizen. It means that government must be the promoter and guarantor of absolute equality in its actions and functions. "Not possible," some readers are thinking. Perhaps that is true; it is especially true as long as citizens remain subjugated to protect and preserve the Status Quo. If, however, we, the people, reclaim and exercise the full force of our power, throwing out our current ineffective and corrupt government, and apply a new and different philosophical foundation to the framework of our United States Constitution, a true, meaningful, and lasting shift of power can and will occur.

I have established that life, society and government are not inherently fair; nor can human beings be forced to be fair by law or any other means. We live within a society of individual citizens that are by their very nature concerned first and foremost with self-preservation, their own needs, desires and ambitions. Society is a living body, a swirling jumbled mass of personal necessity and aspiration. One that is constantly changing and adapting. Government, on the other hand, is an institution, a creation and construct, man made and laid upon citizens. Thus far, as a general rule of human history, government is neither fair nor equal; how could it be in light of the facts?

Since "fairness" is a perception, a subjective judgement that can be facilitated by equal and may lead one to act fairly under certain circumstances, even in the absence of the condition of equality. Since fair treatment cannot be legislated or forced upon citizens in their dealings with each other; and since government is an artificial institution arising from the citizens in order to serve their various needs. I submit that it is the responsibility and duty of government to establish and maintain the condition of absolute equality with regard to its activities and functions, thereby providing equal treatment, consideration, enforcement, opportunity, support and choice for all citizens. That is to say, if our government is predicated on the condition of absolute equality of status, privileges, and rights for every citizen, it will by its very nature be fair.

For example, in an earlier post I introduced the Four Changes I am convinced that our nation must make if we are to have any hope of reversing the inexorable process of decline and eventual ruin now unfolding all around us. These changes are: Equal Taxation, National Service Benefit Development, American Citizen's Good Health and Care, and United States Universal Public Education. Every one of these changes depends on, and will only work if they are applied and affect every citizen absolutely equally. Everybody, including our Founding Fathers and the Framers of our Constitution, agrees that equality is fundamental to human life and liberty; when it comes to the idea of equality everybody talks a good game. But the factual truth is very different.

Equality is great, as long as this group, or that special interest is, for whatever reason, treated a little more equal. Equality in the minds of certain pious persons, certain victims of abuse, certain members of government and, of course, all those that are among the wealthy powerful members of the elite minority faction ruling class is good so long as it does not infringe upon or threaten their position, their privilege and their expectation of being the "most" equal. As time goes forward I will discuss each of the Four Changes noted above extensively with relation to Equalism and equality. I am going to start with truly universal free womb-to-tomb health care for ALL citizens because it is such a huge issue in the 2008 presidential contest, and because the ignorance and stupidity preventing us from having free lifetime health and care is literally killing us.

Now that readers have a clearer and better understanding of what Equalism is, and what I specifically mean when I use words such as equal and equality it will make our next meeting and discussion concerning the condition and future of our health, our care, and our continuation as a nation much more meaningful. As a preview I will tell you that everything we are currently being told by the major presidential candidates is pure unadulterated smelly crap. Everything they say is a calculated lie, until we, as citizens, overcome our own credulity and ignorance, until we shut down and permanently prohibit such flagrantly fraudulent institutions and businesses known as health insurance companies, and health care providers, families will continue to fall into ruin, soldiers will continue suffering the fate of political deal making, and many, many more babes and children will die unnecessarily.

I am very anxious to know your thoughts and encourage readers to leave any comments they may have. If you think someone you know might be interested, you can email this post to them directly from here, and finally, while you are here and thinking about it please save "Shift of Power" to your bookmarks or favorites. I will communicate with readers again on or before 9 May 2008. Give Peace a chance.
James B. Tinsley, B.A.

COPROMISE PART II: THE PROMISE OF CORRUPTION

2008-04-29T19:16:00.005-05:00

30 April 2008

What is compromise? Is it a co-promise? Is it a promise to cooperate? Is it a commonly agreed upon promise? The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, 3rd. Edition, indicates that compromise is a settlement of differences by concession; or combining the qualities of different things. Within the context of government and governing, I submit, that compromise is more about what is given up, rather than what is gained, that everyone loses, while only a limited few realize some degree of benefit; and, that compromise is the first act of corruption. How can this be?

Compromise, when all is said and done, can only occur between two people. Yes, more may be involved in the negotiations, but in the end the ultimate agreement is usually struck between two individuals that have enough power to enforce it. Conversely, two well-founded, well-developed ideas or plans cannot be compromised if either is to accomplish its purpose. For example, presidential hopefuls, Republican John McCain and Democrat, Hillary Clinton, are currently clamoring for a suspension of the federal tax on gasoline throughout the summer season; Senator Barrack OBama opposes the idea. He is against it for two basic reasons; it would not significantly effect the price of gasoline for average citizens, and the loss of revenue diminishes what can be allocated for infrastructure maintenance and repair.

I am not advocating for Mr. Obama, but he is right. If and when this issues comes before congress, some sort of compromise will be reached, and regardless of the final terms, average citizens will lose far more than we will gain, while a limited number of politicians and corporations will reap the greatest benefit. Think about it! Consider the compromises that have been reached about funding for the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, for S-CHP (State Children's Health Program) funding, and for the so-called "economic stimulus" package passed earlier this year. Each of these actions by our government were passed, some have been vetoed by President Bush, but all are the product of compromise.

One may argue that, had it not been for compromise, nothing would have gotten done. That may be true, however, it does not make it right, honest or effective. Because of compromise thousands of soldiers and civilians have continued to die, children and entire families are being denied health care- some of them will die as a result, and as many as two million citizens still face foreclosure, economic ruin and homelessness.

Reader's can argue until they are blue in the face about the need for compromise in legislation and government, but the the evidence of its harmful consequences throughout the course of our nation's history is undeniable and overwhelming. The growth and maturity of the United States; its industrialization, our inestimable wealth and nuclear domination of the planet is the product of compromise. By the same token, our increasing and immediate dysfunction, deterioration and decline are also the result of compromise. Compromise has made the United States of America what it is, and what it is not. Now, the question is, "How can government function without compromise?"

There must be a process. A process that makes all citizens the primary objective and beneficiaries, that will bring about the best results and effects for everyone. Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government contains such a process. It is a Three-question Test process. When considering final passage of any policy, legislation, or action lawmakers must ask and answer three questions:

Will this action or function cause ruinous harm to the dignity, value, happiness and progress of citizens' lives?
Will this action or function secure, without exception, absolutely equal privileges, status and rights of every citizen?
Will this action or function require and guarantee without exception, equitable, impartial application and enforcement to every citizen?

The answer to the first question must be No; questions two and three must be answered in the affirmative. If the response to any of the questions is qualified in any manner, is unclear or ambiguous, the action or function must be rejected as it is and debate resumed until it complies with the rules of the process. The objective of the three questions is to eliminate self-interest, special interest, greed and compromise; this would all but do away with the opportunity for acts of corruption and collusion. I will discuss this in greater detail at a later time. For now I ask only that readers think about it and consider the possibilities such a process could produce.

Throughout the coming days, weeks and months pay attention and make note of when you read, hear or see something about compromises, deals or agreements reached by congress or the president. When you do look into it, see who is gaining and who is losing. I will bet all the money I could make for the remainder of my life that in all instances average working people, common citizens, will always be the biggest losers and that politicians and the wealthy will always gain the most benefit.

I will communicate with you again on 4 May 2008, until then please be safe, let me know what you think and give Peace a chance.

James Tinsley, B.A.

"CONGRESS REACHES COMPROMISE-CONSTITUTION READY FOR RATIFICATION!"

2008-04-25T09:53:00.005-05:00

25 April 2008

I have a question or two. Did it ever occur to anyone that our nation only became a nation as the result of compromise? Has anyone ever taken a few moments and thought about it or seriously considered it? What the implications are? Remember, one must always include the law of unintended consequences when engaging in contemplation, reasoning, or just plain old thinking about stuff.

So, has it ever occurred to anyone, have you given any amount of thought to the fact that if not for compromise the United States of America may never have existed? What do you think were the two key compromises that facilitated the completion of the Constitution and its subsequent submission to the people of the various states for ratification (or rejection)?

I encourage everyone to give it some thought and let me know. In my estimate the two compromises that, if not made, would have set the colonists occupying this continent off on a completely different time-line, a different historical revelation, is the compromise concerning slavery and the compromise to immediately address the issue of individual and human rights through amendments upon ratification of the Constitution. We got lucky with that one. Although, those amendments, known to most citizens as "The Bill of Rights," have kept the police, the lawyers and the courts in business and very well fed.

I am sure that most readers, when prompted, do in fact instinctively know that the United States is the product of compromise. Truthfully, there is a certain sense of pride about it. It is fair to say that most everyone agrees that successful politics in the American system is synonymous with the so-called " Art of Compromise." I concur. After all, we are a reasonable people. We are willing to compromise, to take what we can get, to settle for what is possible right now.

How many times have you heard on a newscast, or read in the news paper a story or headline telling how Senator McGreedy and Senior Senator Stickyfingers reached a compromise agreement today clearing the way for... ? I will tell you something; every time citizens hear or see that scenerio, or some variation, average Americans are in the process of being diminished and devalued, deceived and discounted. Compromise is the cornerstone and the curse of our nation.

Some may say, "But wait, there is no way you could have a government, especially our kind of government, without compromise." That belief, that firm and uncompromising mind-set is an element, a rhetorical device crafted into the mythological marketing presented in the story, or tale, as it were, of American history and education. Our nation's historical record, until recently, and to my mind, recounted most eloquently and accurately by Professor Howard Zinn in his, A People's History of The United States, has always been told as a glorious and triumphant emergence of greatness. Lots of struggle, overcoming tremendous hardship, the fountainhead of invention and creative genius, humane and caring- a protective Uncle, a nation concerned with the security and well-being of the oppressed and those less fortunate. Does that sound about right?

I am fully aware that what I am about to commit to writing is offensive to many and a call to arms for more than a few of my fellow citizens. However, it is my obligation as a human being, and my responsibility as an American citizen to always express my honest thoughts. Although, because I am sensitive to the power and effect of words and understand that readers will most likely infer something that I did not imply, I strive to chose and organize my words and thoughts carefully. My objective in bringing unpleasant subjects to the ether for comment, discussion and debate is to stimulate thinking, reflection, and introspection. I have no desire to attack, offend, or make any reader angry or defensive. Unfortunately, honesty, and the expression of one's honest thoughts, often achieves those very results. So, all I can ask is please do not take my honesty personally; and to implore that readers extend to me every right that they claim for themselves.

It is my honest conclusion that the observable, documented and knowable evidence that is the actual history of the United States of America, reveals a shameful, inhumane, uncaring, overbearing and murderous nation. A nation, pious and arrogant, owned and dominated by Caucasian Anglo Protestants.

There is no conceivable argument that will disprove this reality. From the establishment of Jamestown, through the intolerance of the Puritans, the industrialization of slavery, the Imperialism of the "White Man's Burden," the extermination of Native American culture, or the exploitation of immigrant labor in order to create the world's greatest amount of wealth for the least number of people; from our very beginning through this very moment, the Elite Minority Faction that is served and protected by America's pseudo-Aristocracy and the Status Quo, have taken what ever they wanted. In other words, what America wants, America gets. Our hubris and our wrath, like the God of Christians knows no bounds; they are infinite and we are supreme.

This is an honest description of the actual day-to-day events upon which the mythological tales of America's history are woven, written and reprinted as texts used to educate future generations. All of it, the brilliant and heroic mythology, and the honest shameful truth was, and continues to be made possible by practicing the [Black] Art of Compromise. Compromise, within the context of government and governing, is the first act of corruption.

I had planned to delve deeper into compromise, but I believe that this is a good place to stop. I have the distinct feeling that some readers need time to digest this honesty and think, to let any anger or defensiveness that may have surfaced to dissipate. I sincerely hope readers will bare in mind that I do not attack persons I attack beliefs and ideas, perception and lies. In this instance it is the idea and lies of compromise. When a degree of calm is regained, and thinking is somewhat more reasoned and rational, I wish that you would share your thoughts and tell me about them. We will continue with this discussion on or before 30 April 2008. Give Peace a chance.
P.S. For anyone interested Cambridge University has put the Complete Works of Charles Darwin on-line at
http://darwin-online.org.uk/

THE UNITED STATES, A NATION OF FREE MARKETS NOT FREE PEOPLE

2008-04-22T11:36:00.005-05:00

22 April 2008

Today, 22 April 2008, is the day of the much anticipated Pennsylvania primary. Barrack, Hillary, all their supporters and detractors, along with the rest of us are obliged to pay attention.Why? In the end, when this year's presidential and congressional elections are over and decided, regardless of who wins, everything and every issue that concerns or matters to you and I - average citizens and common struggling working people - will remain the same as it ever was. The only true and consistent winner in American elections is the Status Quo. Status Quo is the promoter, protector and vicious defender for Elite Minority Faction rule. Consequently, I wish to begin this post with several questions for readers to ponder.

Is military power and dominance a greater achievement than productive, prosperous and happy citizens?
Is profit and property more important than people?
Are unfettered so-called "Free Markets" more valuable than improving the conditions and lives of all our citizens?
Are they the intent and purpose of our United States Constitution?
Is it really better to live in a nation that is, for the most part, poor, sick, and stupid, such as the United States is?
Do we truly believe that a nation of more than 300 million citizens where 90% of all wealth and benefit is owned and controlled by approximately 400-450 families and corporations is the "greatest nation" in history?
Is the United States of America really any different than the former Soviet Russia, than present day Iran, or than the known world was when it was dictated by some corrupt Vicar of Christ, some Pope in Rome?

The obvious and intellectually honest answer to all these questions is a resounding, NO!

As I have watched and listened to the current political productions being staged at a cost of hundreds of millions of dollars, and in the name of democracy, freedom, security and equality I have laughed and I have wept. My laughter is at the ignorance and credulity of our citizens; my tears flow freely for the same reasons. I wish to make a prediction, and I ask that you hold me to it.

My prediction is this: The course of our nation and the condition of average working citizens in America will not improve or substantially change no matter who is elected. Things might get worse, but there is absolutely no chance our daily lives will see any benefit as a result of the upcoming election process.

Neither Republicans nor Democrats have any desire, will, motivation or the intelligence to initiate or engage in real changes to make our nation and our citizen's lives better or different than they are now. Just as it was in the beginning when King George of Great Britain was our lord and master, our only hope lies with and in the people. We are the only true source of power and the only chance Americans have to to actually change the United States and the lives of our citizens.

We must carry out a second American Revolution. It is our Constitutional duty and the obligation of our citizenship to overthrow the Status Quo power structure and remove a corrupt harmful government of Elite Minority Faction rule. Like our Fore-fathers and mothers did, we must re-declare our independence by establishing a new system and process of government. A government whose sole function, purpose and focus is empowering and improving the daily lives of it's living citizens. We must rise up and cause a radical and lasting shift of power.

I call for Revolution - not with guns and violence - but by using the arsenal of weapons embedded within our United States Constitution for this very reason. Revolution by Constitution!

In my post of 18 April 2008 I briefly described a method and means of taxation that is equal and gives primary control of our nation's revenue to the people. This is only one of four major and revolutionary changes arising from Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government. A unique and new philosophy, system and process for politics and government.

In addition to Equal Taxation we must require a brief period of National Service for all citizens that are not too physically or mentally impaired to function without constant care. We must amend the Constitution to make "free" health care and "free" education a guaranteed right of citizenship available to all citizens beginning in the womb and continuing throughout their life until death.

In the coming weeks and months I will discuss in detail why we must do these things. I will tell you how they can be done. In the meantime, think about the questions posed at the start of this communication and please let me know your thoughts and opinions. I look forward to our next encounter on or about 25 April 2008. Give Peace a chance.

EQUALITY-ABSOLUTE EQUALITY, AMERICA'S GREATEST FAILURE

2008-04-18T10:04:00.006-05:00

18 April 2008

Now that our initial encounter with the tax man is past it may be somewhat easier to take in new ideas, to focus on some possibilities. To begin, let me say that the attitudes, ideas and conclusions I intend to introduce and hopefully, generate discussion and debate about in the coming months, are not the ultimate answers or solutions; they are not exceptionally ingenious or brilliant, nor are they 'new,' in-so-far-as unheard of.

What they are is common sense; well reasoned, logical and thoughtful common sense. They are the result of more than thirty years of experience, growth, development and serious inquiry; and these attitudes, ideas and conclusions are my honest thoughts.

For example, our United States Internal Revenue Tax Code is the primary instrument and the machinery used by the proponents of the Status Quo to sustain the position, power, and wealth of Elite Minority Faction rule. Unless our system of taxation radically and completely changes, and unless the purpose and functions of our government institutions does the same, the United States, as we now perceive and recognize it, will fail.

It will fail in the sense that the geographical area- the place - known as the United States may remain, but the idea, the concept, the mythology, and most likely our original Constitution, will be replaced by something akin to the same kind of tyranny, despotism and oppressive government we revolted and fought a war against to gain our nation's independence. In other words, we, as a nation, will have completed the circle and cycle.
Once the cycle is completed, once the circle is closed, the United States and its government will have become the tyrant and oppressor. Either revolution from below, or invasion from without will signify the end of the original United States, and the beginning of something else.

Our current tax code and system of taxation is the most obvious process of government symbolizing America's failure. Its failure to live up to and enforce the terms of its legally binding Constitutional contract with citizens; failure to establish the ideals, purpose and function as described in that contract. Our tax code is the most convincing evidence that from the very start our nation- of the people, by the people, and for the people- is in fact, and in practice no different than any other in the history of the world.

All known government systems that have existed thus far in civilized human history have been controlled by an Elite Minority Faction consisting of those with position, with power, and with land and wealth. All government systems define the Status Quo and function to secure and sustain this relatively small and limited group.

It does not matter whether the government system is theocracy, authoritarian tyrant, revolutionary despot, fascist, socialist, monarchy, democracy, communist, or republic. Or, as in our case, representative democracy. Neither does it matter how they begin, or why. All known government has been ,and is, the product and tool of an Elite Minority Faction designed and implemented to protect those with power and wealth on the backs and with the lives of average common citizens.

The next logical adaptation in the evolution of government systems is a system of government that is based exclusively on human progress and happiness, on absolute equality of status, privileges, and rights for ALL citizens, and on the unqualified ethical conduct of government in all its functions and activities. These are the cornerstones of the foundation upon which Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government is built. How does this tie in with our tax code discussion?

Out of the system and process contained in the philosophy of Humanistic Equalism I have developed the framework for a method of taxation designated as, "Equal Taxation." The complete and detailed explanation of Equal Taxation is recorded in a manuscript introducing Humanistic Equalism that I recently completed. For the moment it is only necessary to lay out the general idea and key points.

Equal Taxation's primary purpose and fundamental uniqueness is absolute equality. Equal Taxation's most radical and revolutionary features are that EVERY CITIZEN-PRIVATE AND CORPORATE- who makes more money or earns profits greater than the minimum tax-free threshold amount WILL PAY TAXES; and, that citizens filing personal income tax will be able to direct their president and representatives as to how they are to spend our nation's tax revenue.

After years of research and thought I determined two things regarding citizens' general hatred of government and taxes. First, our tax system is excruciatingly unfair; second, unwise and ineffective spending of tax collected by government. So, the challenge was how can taxes be made equal (because by default equal is fair), and how to give citizens first say-so in how tax dollars are spent.

To meet the first challenge it was determined that every citizen who qualifies to pay taxes will pay the same rate, or percentage. Also, that it is necessary to eliminate and prohibit all exemptions, tax credits, deductions, deferments and tax-free status- such as religious, non-profit, foundations, etc. THE LAW IS THAT IF YOU OWE YOU PAY.

To meet the challenge of giving citizens first control over how presidents and congress spend our money I have devised a means wherein our annual personal income tax form will consist of a brief section to figure out if any taxes are owed. (Since there will no longer be any itemized deductions, tax credits, etc., calculating one's taxes will be easy, straightforward, and simple.) The calculation section will be followed by a longer one containing a relatively detailed breakdown of the previous years' spending by the federal government.

Under three main headings representing the three branches of our government, spending by each branch will be further broken down by department, agency, and program. Citizens will then have the option of checking a box at the beginning of this section of the tax form that essentially tells the president and Congress to spend that citizen's tax payment however they see fit. Or, they may go through the entire spending section, maybe to one particular branch or agency, and check off those items that they wish their federal tax dollars to support. Citizens may also indicate what they DO NOT want their money spent for.

Once all citizens have filed their income tax forms and analyses are completed a final report with a well defined broad outline will be issued to the president, to congress, and to the public indicating what citizens want their tax money used for; what they do not want it used for, and how much on any particular item. If the president and congress do not agree they will have to convince citizens to allow them to do otherwise.

With this system lobbyists will no longer have any influence. Congress, presidents and those running for office will no longer be able to sell our tax code and regulations for campaign contributions or to secure employment after leaving government work. Those who now manipulate tax law or create schemes to reduce or avoid taxes will have to find an honest job. Our federal treasury will have more than enough cash. But most importantly, for the first time in history citizens will have real and substantive control of how and why a nation's money is used.

As I stated above the full description and explanation of Equal Taxation is more detailed and deals with most of the issues that readers might be thinking have not been taken into account. I will share more of those details at a later time. For now I will ask you to just consider the possibilities. If we implemented this system as it is basically outlined here, the United States of America could soon achieve a level and degree of economic and social equality that, in all of human history has never been accomplished.

Please let me know what you think and I will communicate with you again on, or before, 22 April 2008. Give Peace a chance.

BECAUSE LIFE IS NOT FAIR, GOVERNMENT MUST BE EQUAL

2008-04-14T18:12:00.000-05:00

14 April 2008

The title of this post sums up the big-picture premise upon which Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government is constructed; albeit somewhat over-simplified. "Fair," and "equal," are not the same thing. "Fair" is a concept, or idea that flows from the principle of "equal," or "absolute equal" within the context of Humanistic Equalism.

By their very nature people are not fair. The result is a society that is not fair. So far, as a general rule of history, government is neither fair nor equal. Fairness is a subjective judgement that may lead to an action, and is facilitated by the condition of equality. And even though one may choose to act fairly absent the condition of equality, if the principle of equality is the required condition then fair conduct or action must be result. Therefore, since people most often act fairly only when it is in their own self-interest, or advantage, I submit that it is the duty and responsibility of institutional government to establish and maintain the condition of absolute equality concerning its activities, functions, and conduct. That is to say that if our government is predicated on the condition of absolute equality it will be fair.

For example, tomorrow (15 April) is the deadline for filing individual income tax information. By the way, HAPPY TAX DAY! I do not believe that in 55 years I have ever met or known, or known of, anyone that likes anything about income tax -whether private citizen or corporate citizen. If there is any element or aspect about which I might concede that citizens of the United States are in fact and practice "united" it is the issue of taxes. Why is that?

There are certainly as many answers as there are people; some hate the idea of so-called 'wealth redistribution,' most people feel that they are over-taxed (even the super-wealthy), and some simply hate the idea of government. I have concluded that the most common and fundamental reason Americans hate income tax and our tax system is two-fold. Our tax system is unfair and it is complicated beyond description. Our income tax is unfair, it is believed, because it is too high and because it is not spent wisely. It is complicated in order to benefit politicians and the wealthy donor class.

But what if it was possible to have a system of taxation that is equal, fair, and gives citizens first say in how government must spend the revenues? There is.

Next time I will tell you more about the system of taxation developed from the principles and process proposed by Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government, and I will delve a little deeper into its philosophical construction and reasoning. I look forward to your comments and opinions and to our next encounter. I will communicate with you again in four days on Friday 18 April 2008.
Until then, give peace a chance.

REVOLUTION...EVOLUTION...DEVOLUTION

2008-04-10T21:32:00.000-05:00

10 April 2008

I do not know how it was or is for others when they first begin to participate and create in this medium, but for one who is computer competent and technically ignorant, such as I am, starting something, putting a thing in motion is time consuming, challenging and, at times, frustratingly difficult. In addition to this blog site I am also building a googlepages web page (site).

Shift of Power, this adventure, is one of the means I am employing to introduce and share what I believe to be a genuinely new political philosophy construct. The website is the beginning of a long term multi-faceted project regarding history.

Like most average people in our nation I am, in all candor, a materially 'poor' individual. But I have made an effort to really live my 55 years, tried to pay attention, to learn from my own ignorance, immaturity, impatience and indiscretion - and from that of others. Like most common citizens I have a sharp mind, I am curious and I adapt and learn quickly. Unlike many in America, however, I was fortunate in that I learned to read at a very early age, more importantly, I was apparently taught, and subsequently developed, excellent comprehension skills. Until I was offered an opportunity to attend college when I was forty-nine years old, the ability to read well, to understand and later to critically analyze and reason, to actually apply logic enables me to do essentially whatever I choose to do. Enough about days gone by and what I may or may not have done. It is 2008, April in America.

Amidst the vernal reawakening and rebirth over half our planet, the changing of weather, longer days, planting, marriage, reproduction. In the midst of the progress of nature the United States of America cowers and defensively postures, boasting of its "only remaining super-power" status while the corruption and profit of war create perpetual fear and darkness over the nation and throughout the world. Milton Friedman's Chicago School Free Market terrorism, with its sanctification and worship of unfettered privatization and profit, plunder and privilege, like an approaching super cell or hurricane, having reached our horizon. Its thick swirling all-encompassing black clouds hang menacing and low smothering our economy, fostering depression.

Friedman economics and religious terrorism -Christian and Muslim, domestic and foreign- combine to complete the dark shadow inundating America and blocking the life giving sunshine of liberty, hope, and prosperity. In the United States it is more like late December than April. Why? I submit it is because our nation, our government, our culture and society, as a product of Christian orthodoxy- Christianity's moral values and principles- considers piety, privilege, profit, property and power to be more important and valuable than the progress and happiness of living human beings.

This fact is what led me to create, develop and now present for edification and debate this new philosophy, system, and process of government, Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government. Next time I will lay out the premise and the principles upon which it is organized and constructed. I am sincerely looking forward to your comments, opinions, and an extended and spirited exchange as this conversation moves forward. I will communicate with you again in four days, that is on 14 April 2008.

STATUS QUO OR SHIFT OF POWER?

2008-04-01T14:59:00.000-05:00

1 April 2008...

What I would like to know from you is why you overwhelmingly continue to support the status quo?

Hello. My name is James B. Tinsley, I am glad to make your acquaintance and look forward to an extended and provocative discussion about the need for a second American Revolution. A Revolution that can be carried out using the weapons and ammunition found within the 'four-corners' of our United States Constitution and provided by those who constructed the framework of our nation expressly for the purpose of getting rid of bad government. A Revolution in our government structure; its function, purpose and conduct. A Revoultion to break the shackles of manipulation, suppression and control exerted and maintained by the status quo of elite minority faction rule. A revolution to cause and sustain a true shift of power in the United States of America.

I have recently completed work on what I believe to be a new political philosophy: Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government of Common Sense, by Common People, for Common Good. I hope to stimulate vigorous debate, along with serious consideration and analysis. I am convinced that Humanistic Equalism: Philosophy for Ethical Government is the first new approach and process regarding the execution of government in more than five thousand years. Yes, that is a bold and heady claim, but so far as I can discern it is as true as it is justified. It is a claim that I want you to assist in refuting, or verifying, with your comments and criticisms. Next time I will begin laying out the specifics for edification.

For now, and to put the matter in motion, I am interested to know why it is that American citizens fight so hard to keep the status quo and resist, with the tenacity of a snapping turtle the undeniable need for, and the inexorable inevitability of change? It is going to happen, we all know it happens, generally, we expect it to happen. Yet, the advance of time, the unstoppable development of human understanding and intellect; and natural advances regarding the processes of civilization resulting from technological and scientific progress all continue to be vilified and feared by the average citizen. Our status quo today is the legacy of our nation's history. If that legacy, our current status quo, is broken as most citizens believe that it is, why do we fight tooth and nail to keep doing that which is failing; maintain a system, a process and a belief that has thus far yielded our nation's present state of decline? So, if you will please think about it and give me some feedback on why you think this is so, or not, I really appreciate your thoughts. More soon......James B. Tinsley, B.A.; contact: jtinsley01@gmail.com.