Godless Political Notes: Notes, and Commentary on Politics and the Law
What are the proper limits of free speech? Should gay couples be allowed to marry? Can the war on terrorism be won? What impact has the Christian Right had on American politics and the Republican Party? These questions and more will be addressed in these short notes on political and legal issues from a godless, liberal perspective
Loyalty to the Party over Loyalty to Truth and Justice
A nation of laws requires that those in power owe their first and primary allegiance to the principles of law, to truth, and to justice. Once people start putting loyalty to a person, party, or agenda ahead of loyalty to law, truth, or justice, then they participate in efforts to undermine the nation and undermine law itself.
A nation of laws requires that those in power owe their first and primary allegiance to the principles of law, to truth, and to justice. Once people start putting loyalty to a person, party, or agenda ahead of loyalty to law, truth, or justice, then they participate in efforts to undermine the nation and undermine law itself.
Economics of Journalism: Is Journalism a Business or Public Service?
Journalists are an important part of democratic society. In a democracy, the people make decisions about who should govern, but they can only make good decisions if they are allowed to make informed decisions. This means that journalists must serve as independent conduits of information about what is happening and what those who govern are doing. Are journalists doing their job?
Journalists are an important part of democratic society. In a democracy, the people make decisions about who should govern, but they can only make good decisions if they are allowed to make informed decisions. This means that journalists must serve as independent conduits of information about what is happening and what those who govern are doing. Are journalists doing their job?
Big Corporation is Watching: Employers Moving Against Private Lives
How much does your employer know about your private life? In theory, your private life should be just that - private. In reality, what you do on your own time is coming more and more to the attention of employers and, under current law, they have the right to fire you or refuse to promote you for just about any reason. If they don't like what you're doing with your time, you could be in trouble.
How much does your employer know about your private life? In theory, your private life should be just that - private. In reality, what you do on your own time is coming more and more to the attention of employers and, under current law, they have the right to fire you or refuse to promote you for just about any reason. If they don't like what you're doing with your time, you could be in trouble.
Liberal Religion vs. Conservative Religion: Is One Inherently Better?
It's common - far too common - for liberal religious believers to act like their form of religion is superior to what you find among conservatives and fundamentalists. They act like they have the only "true" religion and others are following a corrupted form of that religion. Funny, but isn't that the same thing which the fundamentalists say?
It's common - far too common - for liberal religious believers to act like their form of religion is superior to what you find among conservatives and fundamentalists. They act like they have the only "true" religion and others are following a corrupted form of that religion. Funny, but isn't that the same thing which the fundamentalists say?
Has America Become a Plutocracy?
America was founded as a democratic republic - it didn't start out as democratic as people assume, but the democratic elements grew stronger over time as people became accustomed to them and demanded more. Today, though, there are questions about just how democratic America remains. Are the people still sovereign, or has America in effect become a kind of plutocracy?
America was founded as a democratic republic - it didn't start out as democratic as people assume, but the democratic elements grew stronger over time as people became accustomed to them and demanded more. Today, though, there are questions about just how democratic America remains. Are the people still sovereign, or has America in effect become a kind of plutocracy?
Read My Lips: No New Taxes (Except to Raise Taxes on Teenagers)
In 1999, while campaigning for president, George W. Bush made a pledge never to raise taxes on anyone, whether private individuals or businesses. A new tax bill signed into law by President George W. Bush lowers taxes for the wealthiest people in America, but raises the tax rates on teenagers trying to save money for college.
In 1999, while campaigning for president, George W. Bush made a pledge never to raise taxes on anyone, whether private individuals or businesses. A new tax bill signed into law by President George W. Bush lowers taxes for the wealthiest people in America, but raises the tax rates on teenagers trying to save money for college.
Theocratic Leanings of GOP Voters
It's common to see criticisms of the Republican Party center around the accusation that they are trying to inject more theocratic policies and trends into the government. Republicans and conservatives object to this criticism, and it's true that such critiques might go too far, but what do the Republican voters want? Would they like to see a more theocratic government?
It's common to see criticisms of the Republican Party center around the accusation that they are trying to inject more theocratic policies and trends into the government. Republicans and conservatives object to this criticism, and it's true that such critiques might go too far, but what do the Republican voters want? Would they like to see a more theocratic government?
What Does Rome Have to Teach Us? Rethinking Rome's Place
The 'classical' civilizations of Greece and Rome have had a profound influence on America's art, architecture, and even politics. Many people tend to conflate the two, but there were radical differences between them and they have very different ideals to communicate. Recently, Greece has been treated as more important; perhaps we should look more closely at Rome.
The 'classical' civilizations of Greece and Rome have had a profound influence on America's art, architecture, and even politics. Many people tend to conflate the two, but there were radical differences between them and they have very different ideals to communicate. Recently, Greece has been treated as more important; perhaps we should look more closely at Rome.
Conservatives: Ideological Purity More Important than Ethics
You might have heard about the sad story of Ben Domenech: Republican extremist who has written lots of hateful, and even racist, material was hired by the Washington Post in an effort to provide 'balance' in their reporting... but then his extensive and repeated plagiarism was discovered. What did his supporters do before he was forced to resign? They worked overtime to justify unethical conduct.
You might have heard about the sad story of Ben Domenech: Republican extremist who has written lots of hateful, and even racist, material was hired by the Washington Post in an effort to provide 'balance' in their reporting... but then his extensive and repeated plagiarism was discovered. What did his supporters do before he was forced to resign? They worked overtime to justify unethical conduct.
American Democracy vs. American Plutocracy
America was founded as a democratic republic - it didn't start out as democratic as people assume, but the democratic elements grew stronger over time as people became accustomed to them and demanded more. Today, though, there are questions about just how democratic America remains. Are the people still sovereign, or has America in effect become a kind of plutocracy?
America was founded as a democratic republic - it didn't start out as democratic as people assume, but the democratic elements grew stronger over time as people became accustomed to them and demanded more. Today, though, there are questions about just how democratic America remains. Are the people still sovereign, or has America in effect become a kind of plutocracy?
Power and Violence: Who Has the Moral High Ground?
In the so-called 'war on terrorism,' it's all too common to see conservatives try to justify barbaric actions of the U.S. government by pointing to even more barbaric actions by Muslim extremists. It's OK to torture prisoners because Islamists behead innocent people, or so the argument seems to be constructed. Such arguments aren't just wrong, they are counter-productive.
In the so-called 'war on terrorism,' it's all too common to see conservatives try to justify barbaric actions of the U.S. government by pointing to even more barbaric actions by Muslim extremists. It's OK to torture prisoners because Islamists behead innocent people, or so the argument seems to be constructed. Such arguments aren't just wrong, they are counter-productive.
Ethnic Nationalism and Xenophobia
What does it mean to be German, French, or Italian? This is a question which European nations are facing and having trouble answering. In America, simply being born here is enough. The same is true for a few other countries, like Canada and Australia. For a country like Germany, however, ethnicity plays a role and this causes problems for immigrants.
What does it mean to be German, French, or Italian? This is a question which European nations are facing and having trouble answering. In America, simply being born here is enough. The same is true for a few other countries, like Canada and Australia. For a country like Germany, however, ethnicity plays a role and this causes problems for immigrants.
Moving from Childhood, to Adolescence, to Adulthood
What is the difference between being an adult and being a child? Just chronological age? Hardly. Education level? Not at all. There's no clear definition or line of distinction, but if we are going to construct one I think that it should center around the concept of responsibility: an adult can and does take responsibility for their own lives and the lives of their family.
What is the difference between being an adult and being a child? Just chronological age? Hardly. Education level? Not at all. There's no clear definition or line of distinction, but if we are going to construct one I think that it should center around the concept of responsibility: an adult can and does take responsibility for their own lives and the lives of their family.
What is there to Smile About?
Are you happy? If so, have you ever thought about why? Smiling is something that people may take for granted, imagining that being happy is biological rather than cultural. In fact, there is an important cultural component. At one time, especially in America, patience and suffering were valued more than happiness and satisfaction.
Are you happy? If so, have you ever thought about why? Smiling is something that people may take for granted, imagining that being happy is biological rather than cultural. In fact, there is an important cultural component. At one time, especially in America, patience and suffering were valued more than happiness and satisfaction.
Oligarchy and Capitalism Abroad
Americans sometimes complain about how much of society is controlled by so few powerful individuals and companies. The situation in America, however, is practically a paradise when compared to the situation in many other Western nations. Capitalism doesn't exclude the development of economic and political oligarchies.
Americans sometimes complain about how much of society is controlled by so few powerful individuals and companies. The situation in America, however, is practically a paradise when compared to the situation in many other Western nations. Capitalism doesn't exclude the development of economic and political oligarchies.
Cooperation and Obedience: Political Surrender to the Oppressive
How to oppressive regimes manage to so completely control a population? Not directly - that would take far too much work, money, and resources. Instead, such regimes maintain their power through the cooperation of lower levels of bureaucracies. The people keep themselves in chains by actively helping those who want to rule.
How to oppressive regimes manage to so completely control a population? Not directly - that would take far too much work, money, and resources. Instead, such regimes maintain their power through the cooperation of lower levels of bureaucracies. The people keep themselves in chains by actively helping those who want to rule.
Modern American Conservatism as a Political Religion
It's far too common for some conservatives to react towards disagreement not simply as an honest difference of political opinions, but as a person affront and something which needs to be punished. Such reactions are more typical of religion than politics - but perhaps that's the point. Perhaps, for some conservatives, their political beliefs are more religious than merely political.
It's far too common for some conservatives to react towards disagreement not simply as an honest difference of political opinions, but as a person affront and something which needs to be punished. Such reactions are more typical of religion than politics - but perhaps that's the point. Perhaps, for some conservatives, their political beliefs are more religious than merely political.
The Future of Humanities
Is the study of the humanities a valuable end in and of itself, or does it only have in value insofar as it serves as good training for some future career in the corporate world? The classics faculty at the University of Birmingham once argued that their department shouldn't be cut because... they produce efficient managers for industry!
Is the study of the humanities a valuable end in and of itself, or does it only have in value insofar as it serves as good training for some future career in the corporate world? The classics faculty at the University of Birmingham once argued that their department shouldn't be cut because... they produce efficient managers for industry!
Self-Esteem and Human Hierarchies
How much do you care about what you have and what you are paid? How much do you care about how your material well-being compares to others? Studies show that people care far, far more about the latter than the former - so much more, in fact, that they would prefer to have less on an absolute scale if it means having more relative to those around them.
How much do you care about what you have and what you are paid? How much do you care about how your material well-being compares to others? Studies show that people care far, far more about the latter than the former - so much more, in fact, that they would prefer to have less on an absolute scale if it means having more relative to those around them.
Do People Still Sacrifice for the Future?
Questions about one's willingness to put off immediate gratification now in exchange for benefits later in the future are the subject of numerous ethical and philosophical debates. Such questions also arguably belong in politics, because if the citizens of a community are unwilling to sacrifice for the future, then how will the community have much of a future?
Questions about one's willingness to put off immediate gratification now in exchange for benefits later in the future are the subject of numerous ethical and philosophical debates. Such questions also arguably belong in politics, because if the citizens of a community are unwilling to sacrifice for the future, then how will the community have much of a future?
Is there Still a Role for Newspapers in the Internet Age?
There is a common perception that with the growth of available information on the internet, the role and need for newspapers will decline. Newspaper subscriptions have certainly declined drastically in recent years, but is that only because of the internet? Do newspapers really have nothing to offer?
There is a common perception that with the growth of available information on the internet, the role and need for newspapers will decline. Newspaper subscriptions have certainly declined drastically in recent years, but is that only because of the internet? Do newspapers really have nothing to offer?
Fascist Philosophy and American Conservatism
Have Americans been drinking too deeply from the well of fascist philosophy? Both liberals and conservatives appear to have been utilizing the ideas of German political philosopher Carl Schmitt, though liberals at least acknowledge some use of his writings - conservatives either aren't aware of this or are trying to hide it.
Have Americans been drinking too deeply from the well of fascist philosophy? Both liberals and conservatives appear to have been utilizing the ideas of German political philosopher Carl Schmitt, though liberals at least acknowledge some use of his writings - conservatives either aren't aware of this or are trying to hide it.
Karl Rove Threatens Republicans: Vote with Bush Or Else...
The Senate Judiciary Committee is taking a look at President's Bush's decision to wire-tap American citizens without a warrant and without any judicial oversight. The actions are widely considered - by both conservative and liberal experts - to have been illegal. Is this why Karl Rove felt it necessary to threaten senators not to vote against Bush in the hearings?
The Senate Judiciary Committee is taking a look at President's Bush's decision to wire-tap American citizens without a warrant and without any judicial oversight. The actions are widely considered - by both conservative and liberal experts - to have been illegal. Is this why Karl Rove felt it necessary to threaten senators not to vote against Bush in the hearings?
What Is the Sanctity of Life?
Lots of people talk about respecting the 'sanctity' of life, but what do they really mean? That phrase sounds like it's designed to tell people what they want to hear rather than communicate real information. If anything is to be taken from it, we should observe people's actions and what they really do when it comes to life and death matters.
Lots of people talk about respecting the 'sanctity' of life, but what do they really mean? That phrase sounds like it's designed to tell people what they want to hear rather than communicate real information. If anything is to be taken from it, we should observe people's actions and what they really do when it comes to life and death matters.
Twisted Teens: Friends of Homophobic Nazi Killer Speak Out
By now you have probably heard about Jacob Robida, aka Jake Jekyll, the homophobic, white supremacist Nazi teen who shot up a gay bar in New Bedford, MA, and was later shot and killed by police in Arkansas (but not before he killed a police officer himself). The signs of violence were known to his friends who visited his website; today, his friends are unapologetic themselves.
By now you have probably heard about Jacob Robida, aka Jake Jekyll, the homophobic, white supremacist Nazi teen who shot up a gay bar in New Bedford, MA, and was later shot and killed by police in Arkansas (but not before he killed a police officer himself). The signs of violence were known to his friends who visited his website; today, his friends are unapologetic themselves.
Radical Nationalism & the Demonization of Others
Americans frequently and repeatedly through history view their nation as a vehicle of liberation and democratization of others in the world. It's a messianic vision of America which is sometimes secular in nature and sometimes combined with explicit Christian doctrine. What happens, though, when others decline to be 'liberated' by America?
Americans frequently and repeatedly through history view their nation as a vehicle of liberation and democratization of others in the world. It's a messianic vision of America which is sometimes secular in nature and sometimes combined with explicit Christian doctrine. What happens, though, when others decline to be 'liberated' by America?
Morality of Rich vs. Poor in America
In America, it almost doesn't seem to matter what you do to succeed: as long as you do succeed, people will praise you and, if necessary, make excuses for you. Failure, on the other hand, causes you to be condemned - even if your failure is arguably due to factors outside your control. Why is this?
In America, it almost doesn't seem to matter what you do to succeed: as long as you do succeed, people will praise you and, if necessary, make excuses for you. Failure, on the other hand, causes you to be condemned - even if your failure is arguably due to factors outside your control. Why is this?
Sacred Privileges and Political Privileges
"Those called to be religious naturally form separate groups, movements, tribes, or nations. Responding in good faith to a divine call, believers feel themselves endowed with sacred privilege, a sense of chosenness that elevates them above all others. This self-perception then leads groups to draw lines around themselves and to speak negatively of "the others.""
"Those called to be religious naturally form separate groups, movements, tribes, or nations. Responding in good faith to a divine call, believers feel themselves endowed with sacred privilege, a sense of chosenness that elevates them above all others. This self-perception then leads groups to draw lines around themselves and to speak negatively of "the others.""
Obedience vs. Individualism: Origin of Hatred in Politics
One of the factors which made the Nazi takeover of Germany possible was the willingness of Germans to obey their leaders unquestioningly and their refusal to dissent in large numbers. Too many Germans put truth and justice in an inferior position to the alleged needs of the group. It's dangerous to simply accept whatever you are told by your leaders.
One of the factors which made the Nazi takeover of Germany possible was the willingness of Germans to obey their leaders unquestioningly and their refusal to dissent in large numbers. Too many Germans put truth and justice in an inferior position to the alleged needs of the group. It's dangerous to simply accept whatever you are told by your leaders.
Equality and Redistribution in a Just Society
Most people believe that equality is an important foundation in liberal democracy, but what sort of equality should be aimed for and what should be done to achieve it? It makes no sense to insist on equality in absolutely everything, but at the same time there are gross inequalities in areas where equality is indispensable. What can be done?
Most people believe that equality is an important foundation in liberal democracy, but what sort of equality should be aimed for and what should be done to achieve it? It makes no sense to insist on equality in absolutely everything, but at the same time there are gross inequalities in areas where equality is indispensable. What can be done?
Nations, Obligations, and Human Rights
What sorts of obligations do nations have towards the citizens of other nations? Should the government of one country act to protect the citizens under the jurisdiction of another government? Some people believe that the protection of human rights requires such actions, but are their arguments valid?
What sorts of obligations do nations have towards the citizens of other nations? Should the government of one country act to protect the citizens under the jurisdiction of another government? Some people believe that the protection of human rights requires such actions, but are their arguments valid?
French Exceptionalism: France as Light of the World
Relations between France and America are often in a state of tension, despite the fact that both are democracies with very similar values and a great deal of shared history. Why should there be so much bad blood? Perhaps the source of the tension lies precisely in the fact that they are so alike: they both make similar claims for themselves and their destines.
Relations between France and America are often in a state of tension, despite the fact that both are democracies with very similar values and a great deal of shared history. Why should there be so much bad blood? Perhaps the source of the tension lies precisely in the fact that they are so alike: they both make similar claims for themselves and their destines.
Republican Values: the Past and Future of the GOP
The Republican Party portrays itself as a political party of values, but even if true those values have changed radically over the decades. This isn't surprising because political parties have to change, but the ways in which the GOP has changed are very interesting.
The Republican Party portrays itself as a political party of values, but even if true those values have changed radically over the decades. This isn't surprising because political parties have to change, but the ways in which the GOP has changed are very interesting.
Moral Relativism of American Conservatives
American conservatives have a habit of complaining about moral relativism, arguing that American culture has abandoned the moral standards necessary for a good, safe community. Unfortunately, many conservatives seem to have adopted a form of moral relativism themselves.
American conservatives have a habit of complaining about moral relativism, arguing that American culture has abandoned the moral standards necessary for a good, safe community. Unfortunately, many conservatives seem to have adopted a form of moral relativism themselves.
Questioning the Value of Tradition
The Christmas season is a time when traditions and traditional practices become especially important both in families and in public generally. There is a tendency to defer to traditions that increases in power during this season, but is such deference justified?
The Christmas season is a time when traditions and traditional practices become especially important both in families and in public generally. There is a tendency to defer to traditions that increases in power during this season, but is such deference justified?
So-Called Libertarians and the Authoritarian Impulse
President Bush has been unapologetic in his admission that he ordered agents of the government to spy on Americans without warrants. Evidence indicates that such orders were illegal and that legal procedures for obtaining the same information existed. Thus, we can learn a lot about people in how they try to defend these actions.
President Bush has been unapologetic in his admission that he ordered agents of the government to spy on Americans without warrants. Evidence indicates that such orders were illegal and that legal procedures for obtaining the same information existed. Thus, we can learn a lot about people in how they try to defend these actions.
People Who Know Nothing, But Have Strong Opinions
There are all sort of public opinion polls out there revealing people's opinions on a variety of issues. What these polls do not reveal, however, is whether people actually know anything about the issues on which they are giving their opinion! Where this has been studied, it appears that people generally don't know much about the issues.
There are all sort of public opinion polls out there revealing people's opinions on a variety of issues. What these polls do not reveal, however, is whether people actually know anything about the issues on which they are giving their opinion! Where this has been studied, it appears that people generally don't know much about the issues.
Spiteful Conservatism: Death Penalty Supported Out of Spite
The death penalty has been gradually losing support in America. More and more people are concerned about the ability of the criminal justice system to apply capital punishment fairly and accurately, even if they agree with it in principle. Some, though, seem to support capital punishment just to spite its opponents.
The death penalty has been gradually losing support in America. More and more people are concerned about the ability of the criminal justice system to apply capital punishment fairly and accurately, even if they agree with it in principle. Some, though, seem to support capital punishment just to spite its opponents.
Torture vs. The Rule of Law
Defenders of torture almost always trot out the 'ticking time bomb' hypothetical to justify their position. According to this argument, it must be moral and legal to torture someone to find a bomb that will otherwise kill lots of people; therefore, torture can be justified. Such a scenario is hardly ever likely, but even when it is we can rebut it.
Defenders of torture almost always trot out the 'ticking time bomb' hypothetical to justify their position. According to this argument, it must be moral and legal to torture someone to find a bomb that will otherwise kill lots of people; therefore, torture can be justified. Such a scenario is hardly ever likely, but even when it is we can rebut it.
Conservative Malaise: Winning the Cold War
American conservatives should be incredibly happy these days. Ignoring the inevitable scandals that always plague politics, just about everything for the past few years has been going their way. So why has a sort of malaise been settling in over some conservative intellectuals? Because, sometimes, winning all your battles means that you have nothing left to really do.
American conservatives should be incredibly happy these days. Ignoring the inevitable scandals that always plague politics, just about everything for the past few years has been going their way. So why has a sort of malaise been settling in over some conservative intellectuals? Because, sometimes, winning all your battles means that you have nothing left to really do.
Should Bush Step Down?
Well, some people would like to see George W. Bush step down from the presidency and they have taken out a full-page ad in The New York Times to make their feelings known. I don't think that Bush reads the NYT, though, so I doubt he'll see it.
Well, some people would like to see George W. Bush step down from the presidency and they have taken out a full-page ad in The New York Times to make their feelings known. I don't think that Bush reads the NYT, though, so I doubt he'll see it.
American Cult of the Founding Fathers
In American political, legal, and social debates, the opinions of America's founders can be very important. It's not uncommon for someone to trot out this or that quote from Madison, Jefferson, or Washington as if that should end all debate and settle the matter. It may be getting to the point where the founders are becoming the objects of cult veneration.
In American political, legal, and social debates, the opinions of America's founders can be very important. It's not uncommon for someone to trot out this or that quote from Madison, Jefferson, or Washington as if that should end all debate and settle the matter. It may be getting to the point where the founders are becoming the objects of cult veneration.
Liberalism, Power, and Bias
A common complaint made by conservatives today is that universities and colleges are biased towards liberals and liberalism. Rejecting anything like quotas for historically disadvantaged minorities, they appear to want ideological quotas for conservative students and teachers. Are their complaints justified, though?
A common complaint made by conservatives today is that universities and colleges are biased towards liberals and liberalism. Rejecting anything like quotas for historically disadvantaged minorities, they appear to want ideological quotas for conservative students and teachers. Are their complaints justified, though?
Democracy, Institutions, & Good People
Democratic institutions which govern society are, obviously, made up of people. They are also made up of rules and procedures. What this means is that such institutions have the capability of being a bit better than the people who make them up because the rules and procedures can force it to - but how much better?
Democratic institutions which govern society are, obviously, made up of people. They are also made up of rules and procedures. What this means is that such institutions have the capability of being a bit better than the people who make them up because the rules and procedures can force it to - but how much better?
Nationalism, Tribalism, One World Government
One thing that doesn't get debated very often is whether it would be good to create a single world government. A few people support it, but much more often we hear condemnations of the idea and arguments that no threats to national sovereignty should be permitted.
One thing that doesn't get debated very often is whether it would be good to create a single world government. A few people support it, but much more often we hear condemnations of the idea and arguments that no threats to national sovereignty should be permitted.
Humanist Politics: Means, Ends, and Rational Society
It is common for people to differentiate means from ends, for example by questioning whether a good ends can justifiably be achieved via unethical means. Perhaps this is a mistake, though. Perhaps means and ends should be seen as part of a single, unified whole.
It is common for people to differentiate means from ends, for example by questioning whether a good ends can justifiably be achieved via unethical means. Perhaps this is a mistake, though. Perhaps means and ends should be seen as part of a single, unified whole.
Capitalism vs. Conservatism
Many liberals in America have expressed bewilderment at the fact that so many voters act against their economic interests: they vote for conservatives whose cultural rhetoric they like, but who can also be counted on to defend economic policies which will be harmful.
Many liberals in America have expressed bewilderment at the fact that so many voters act against their economic interests: they vote for conservatives whose cultural rhetoric they like, but who can also be counted on to defend economic policies which will be harmful.
Nationalism and Identity
A basic feature of the political landscape today is nationalism, the devotion to one's nation and national identity. The importance and value of nationalism goes almost unquestioned - but perhaps they should. Nationalism hasn't always existed and isn't always an unmitigated good.
A basic feature of the political landscape today is nationalism, the devotion to one's nation and national identity. The importance and value of nationalism goes almost unquestioned - but perhaps they should. Nationalism hasn't always existed and isn't always an unmitigated good.
Tribalism and Treason: Weighing Humanity Against One's Nation
People naturally value the lives of those closest to them than the lives of strangers - if forced to choose, a person is far more likely to rescue a relative or neighbor than a stranger. This is natural, expected, and ultimately unremarkable. It is disturbing, however, just how far this can be taken...
People naturally value the lives of those closest to them than the lives of strangers - if forced to choose, a person is far more likely to rescue a relative or neighbor than a stranger. This is natural, expected, and ultimately unremarkable. It is disturbing, however, just how far this can be taken...
Christian Nation and Presidential Elections
It's become common in America for religion to be used as a political football. Implicitly or explicitly, there are many who argue that a person should receive or be denied people's votes based upon the candidate's religious beliefs. There is actually a long tradition of this in America - but it's not one that anyone should want to be part of.
It's become common in America for religion to be used as a political football. Implicitly or explicitly, there are many who argue that a person should receive or be denied people's votes based upon the candidate's religious beliefs. There is actually a long tradition of this in America - but it's not one that anyone should want to be part of.
Pride in Western Civilization: Unjustified?
Quite a few critics of Islam and the Arab world seem to evince a pride in the West, Christianity, and their own civilization. Leaving aside the question of whether it's possible to compare civilizations and declare one better or worse, it's it at all reasonable for someone to take pride in a civilization?
Quite a few critics of Islam and the Arab world seem to evince a pride in the West, Christianity, and their own civilization. Leaving aside the question of whether it's possible to compare civilizations and declare one better or worse, it's it at all reasonable for someone to take pride in a civilization?
Catholic Opposition to Religious Liberty
Pope Benedict XVI has come out many times blasting secularism and political liberalism. Given how entrenched they are in the modern West, this might seem strange, but in fact what's probably stranger is that the criticisms aren't harsher. The Catholic Church has a long history of its theology being positioned against religious liberty.
Pope Benedict XVI has come out many times blasting secularism and political liberalism. Given how entrenched they are in the modern West, this might seem strange, but in fact what's probably stranger is that the criticisms aren't harsher. The Catholic Church has a long history of its theology being positioned against religious liberty.
What is a Democracy, Really?
In the case of a word like democracy, not only is there no agreed definition, but the attempt to make one is resisted from all sides. It is almost universally felt that when we call a country democratic we are praising it: consequently the defenders of every kind of regime claim that it is a democracy, and fear that they might have to stop using that word if it were tied down to any one meaning.
In the case of a word like democracy, not only is there no agreed definition, but the attempt to make one is resisted from all sides. It is almost universally felt that when we call a country democratic we are praising it: consequently the defenders of every kind of regime claim that it is a democracy, and fear that they might have to stop using that word if it were tied down to any one meaning.
God vs. Democracy
Is belief in the traditional monotheistic god of Islam and Christianity compatible with democracy? That's hard to say. Many adherents of both religions are certainly supporters of democratic society, but many others are not - and they effectively use their religious doctrines to justify why democracy is anti-God: it replaces God's will with human will.
Is belief in the traditional monotheistic god of Islam and Christianity compatible with democracy? That's hard to say. Many adherents of both religions are certainly supporters of democratic society, but many others are not - and they effectively use their religious doctrines to justify why democracy is anti-God: it replaces God's will with human will.
Rights, Duties, Opportunities, and Resources
Most nations attempt to protect at least some rights that all of citizens are suppose to enjoy. How rights are to be protected is a matter of some debate, though. There are places where "rights" exist only in theory and on paper because citizens are not afforded any way to actually exercise them. It's arguable, then, that they don't really have those rights after all.
Most nations attempt to protect at least some rights that all of citizens are suppose to enjoy. How rights are to be protected is a matter of some debate, though. There are places where "rights" exist only in theory and on paper because citizens are not afforded any way to actually exercise them. It's arguable, then, that they don't really have those rights after all.
Ethnicity, Nation-States, and Liberal Democracy
Today most people think of nationality in terms of political citizenship. A person might be a citizen of any nation without it necessarily saying much about them. The origins of the idea of a nation-state, though, lie in extreme xenophobia, racism, and discrimination.
Today most people think of nationality in terms of political citizenship. A person might be a citizen of any nation without it necessarily saying much about them. The origins of the idea of a nation-state, though, lie in extreme xenophobia, racism, and discrimination.
Fear of Freedom - Others' Freedom
"Freedom is the scariest of human desires. The American commitment to the freedom and equality of the autonomous individual has always frightened as many Americans as it exhilarated. ... To some groups, the apparent lack of moral order engendered by the elevation of individual rights gave rise to a persistent fear of conspiracy..."
"Freedom is the scariest of human desires. The American commitment to the freedom and equality of the autonomous individual has always frightened as many Americans as it exhilarated. ... To some groups, the apparent lack of moral order engendered by the elevation of individual rights gave rise to a persistent fear of conspiracy..."
Developing an Imperial Presidency in America
Just how much personal power should a president have? In times of crisis or uncertainty, people seem to have a need to look up to a strong leader who will rescue them and lead them into a brighter future - thus the inclination to invest more and more power in a single office or single person. This is a dangerous trend, though.
Just how much personal power should a president have? In times of crisis or uncertainty, people seem to have a need to look up to a strong leader who will rescue them and lead them into a brighter future - thus the inclination to invest more and more power in a single office or single person. This is a dangerous trend, though.
Preserving Democracy
What does it take for a democracy to be preserved? It certainly can't be regarded as self-perpetuating, continuing on without any input from the people. By its very nature, a democracy depends upon the participation of the people - but what sort of participation?
What does it take for a democracy to be preserved? It certainly can't be regarded as self-perpetuating, continuing on without any input from the people. By its very nature, a democracy depends upon the participation of the people - but what sort of participation?
Where do Rights Come From?
The nature and origin of rights isn't something that most people spend much time thinking about - it's usually a subject for political and legal philosophy. It is important to the average person, though, because unless we have some idea about where rights come from, we can't say what is and is not a right - much less defend rights against the attacks of those who are more authoritarian.
The nature and origin of rights isn't something that most people spend much time thinking about - it's usually a subject for political and legal philosophy. It is important to the average person, though, because unless we have some idea about where rights come from, we can't say what is and is not a right - much less defend rights against the attacks of those who are more authoritarian.
What Does it Take to Be a Liberal in America?
Political ideologies shift over time - this is inevitable. What liberals believe today weren't all accepted by liberals 20 or 50 years ago, and the same is true of conservatives. While it's unavoidable that ideology will shift, not all shifts are equal or equally desirable. Sometimes, these shifts go in a frightening direction.
Political ideologies shift over time - this is inevitable. What liberals believe today weren't all accepted by liberals 20 or 50 years ago, and the same is true of conservatives. While it's unavoidable that ideology will shift, not all shifts are equal or equally desirable. Sometimes, these shifts go in a frightening direction.
The Future of American Conservatism
Today, the Republican Party is dominated by the Christian Right. The Bush administration can't appoint anyone who doesn't have the full support of Christian Right leaders like Dobson, Robertson, et al. Today, the Republican Party is also suffering from a myriad of corruption charges, a curious situation for a party that is always claiming to hold the moral high ground. What will happen?
Today, the Republican Party is dominated by the Christian Right. The Bush administration can't appoint anyone who doesn't have the full support of Christian Right leaders like Dobson, Robertson, et al. Today, the Republican Party is also suffering from a myriad of corruption charges, a curious situation for a party that is always claiming to hold the moral high ground. What will happen?
Does America Reject Conservatism?
The Christian Right in America is outraged that President Bush doesn't nominate any "loud and proud" legal conservatives who are unafraid to make it clear that they don't believe in a right to abortion, a right to privacy, or any of the other social advances made in the last few decades. Bush had two quick chances to do this and refused. Why?
The Christian Right in America is outraged that President Bush doesn't nominate any "loud and proud" legal conservatives who are unafraid to make it clear that they don't believe in a right to abortion, a right to privacy, or any of the other social advances made in the last few decades. Bush had two quick chances to do this and refused. Why?
Political Talk Shows Damage the Political Process
The political talk shows which feature people of opposing positions yelling at each other have become a staple of television today. Perhaps inspired by John Stewart's pointed criticism while on CNN's Crossfire, some have been taking a second look - and are disturbed by what some of the data indicates.
The political talk shows which feature people of opposing positions yelling at each other have become a staple of television today. Perhaps inspired by John Stewart's pointed criticism while on CNN's Crossfire, some have been taking a second look - and are disturbed by what some of the data indicates.
Totalitarianism in Society Before the State
Many have wondered how a totalitarian state could develop - what would cause people to give any support to a government that tried to control every aspect of society? This is especially problematic when it comes to Germany, in which a totalitarian political party was actually elected into office. The answer lies in the backdrop of society...
Many have wondered how a totalitarian state could develop - what would cause people to give any support to a government that tried to control every aspect of society? This is especially problematic when it comes to Germany, in which a totalitarian political party was actually elected into office. The answer lies in the backdrop of society...
Individualism in America: a Positive or Negative Ideology?
"The contemporary notion [of individualism] actually began as a term of abuse, observes [Wilfred M.] McClay... Joseph de Maistre employed it in the 19th century to describe the most reprehensible aspects of the French Revolution, including a doctrine of natural rights that allowed any individual to be his own moral arbiter."
"The contemporary notion [of individualism] actually began as a term of abuse, observes [Wilfred M.] McClay... Joseph de Maistre employed it in the 19th century to describe the most reprehensible aspects of the French Revolution, including a doctrine of natural rights that allowed any individual to be his own moral arbiter."
How Democracy Changes Expectations of Government
Early democratic theorists in the West grew up in the context of generally un-democratic states where government held absolute power, but was limited in its relationship with the rest of society. Today's democratic governments have limited power, but are extensive in their relationships with society. What happened?
Early democratic theorists in the West grew up in the context of generally un-democratic states where government held absolute power, but was limited in its relationship with the rest of society. Today's democratic governments have limited power, but are extensive in their relationships with society. What happened?
Popular Sovereignty, Popular Will, and Moral Legitimacy
It's often thought that one of the reasons democracy is a preferable system of government in part because any government which reflects the popular will has more moral legitimacy than one which doesn't. Is this true, though? Is there something inherently more moral about the popular will?
It's often thought that one of the reasons democracy is a preferable system of government in part because any government which reflects the popular will has more moral legitimacy than one which doesn't. Is this true, though? Is there something inherently more moral about the popular will?
End of German Democracy: Was it Murder or Suicide?
One thing that has interested many historians who study Nazi Germany is how, exactly, the democracy of the Weimar Republic failed. Did it commit suicide, self-destructing from within because flawed laws and principles, or was it murdered by those who hated liberalism and democracy? Or both?
One thing that has interested many historians who study Nazi Germany is how, exactly, the democracy of the Weimar Republic failed. Did it commit suicide, self-destructing from within because flawed laws and principles, or was it murdered by those who hated liberalism and democracy? Or both?
Denying the Political Dimensions of Fear
That fear is used for political purposes is undeniable - throughout history political and religious leaders have encouraged fear in people in order to garner their support for particular agendas. More interesting, though, is how fear can be used for political ends while denying that the causes of fear are themselves political in nature.
That fear is used for political purposes is undeniable - throughout history political and religious leaders have encouraged fear in people in order to garner their support for particular agendas. More interesting, though, is how fear can be used for political ends while denying that the causes of fear are themselves political in nature.
Knowledge and Power in Modern Democracies
It is said that knowledge is power. This may be especially true in the context of modern democracies where the political system is dependent upon the knowledge and judgment of individual citizens. In addition, any modern society is dependent upon scientific and technological experts to keep things running.
It is said that knowledge is power. This may be especially true in the context of modern democracies where the political system is dependent upon the knowledge and judgment of individual citizens. In addition, any modern society is dependent upon scientific and technological experts to keep things running.
Democracy vs. Fascism: How Democracy Can Die
Germany democracy became German fascism, and as a consequence all of Europe was brought down in flames with tens of millions of dead. If we better understood how the transition occurred, it might help us prevent it in the future.
Germany democracy became German fascism, and as a consequence all of Europe was brought down in flames with tens of millions of dead. If we better understood how the transition occurred, it might help us prevent it in the future.
Liberalism vs. Democracy
The current explanation for America's invasion of Iraq is the need to spread democracy throughout the region and thereby ensuring freedom and safety not only for people in the Middle East, but elsewhere as well. This is certainly a laudable goal, but is there any evidence that democracy alone will achieve this?
The current explanation for America's invasion of Iraq is the need to spread democracy throughout the region and thereby ensuring freedom and safety not only for people in the Middle East, but elsewhere as well. This is certainly a laudable goal, but is there any evidence that democracy alone will achieve this?
Presidential Power, Presidential Supremacy
It has become common for presidents to claim to have a mandate from the people and to represent the will of the entire American public. They use such claims in order to justify pushing their ideas through Congress - presidents can't make law, so they exert moral pressure on those who can. Just how reasonable are claims about a mandate, though?
It has become common for presidents to claim to have a mandate from the people and to represent the will of the entire American public. They use such claims in order to justify pushing their ideas through Congress - presidents can't make law, so they exert moral pressure on those who can. Just how reasonable are claims about a mandate, though?
Liberals, Conservatives, and the American Media
Does it seem like the media has become more partisan and polarized than it used to be? You may be right and the reason for this, curiously enough, may be the increased competition in the media. As the number of media outlets goes up, the need to find an audience increases both the motivation and usefulness of going after a narrower target audience rather than trying to please everyone.
Does it seem like the media has become more partisan and polarized than it used to be? You may be right and the reason for this, curiously enough, may be the increased competition in the media. As the number of media outlets goes up, the need to find an audience increases both the motivation and usefulness of going after a narrower target audience rather than trying to please everyone.
Conservatives for Judicial Activism
A common refrain heard from conservatives of all stripes, but especially religious conservatives, is that the American judiciary needs to be fundamentally changed. They argue that there is too much "judicial activism" and that judges are "legislating from the bench," becoming black-robed dictators. What do they mean by this? Simply that judges aren't ruling the way the Christian Right would like.
A common refrain heard from conservatives of all stripes, but especially religious conservatives, is that the American judiciary needs to be fundamentally changed. They argue that there is too much "judicial activism" and that judges are "legislating from the bench," becoming black-robed dictators. What do they mean by this? Simply that judges aren't ruling the way the Christian Right would like.
Government Oppression and Social Cooperation
Usually when we think of an oppressive society, we imagine a government that acts broadly to limit people's rights. Too often, people overlook the important role played - often voluntarily - by individual citizens and private organizations. No government can permeate every aspect of society; so if people are afraid, it's because their fellow citizens are cooperating.
Usually when we think of an oppressive society, we imagine a government that acts broadly to limit people's rights. Too often, people overlook the important role played - often voluntarily - by individual citizens and private organizations. No government can permeate every aspect of society; so if people are afraid, it's because their fellow citizens are cooperating.
Religion, Values, and Pandering to Bigotry
One hears that the Democratic Party needs to talk about religion more so that religious voters will feel more comfortable voting Democratic. Democrats have been too closely associated with secularism and atheism, so the argument goes, and must shed this image. Isn't this a bit like saying that a party should use racist language to appeal to racist voters?
One hears that the Democratic Party needs to talk about religion more so that religious voters will feel more comfortable voting Democratic. Democrats have been too closely associated with secularism and atheism, so the argument goes, and must shed this image. Isn't this a bit like saying that a party should use racist language to appeal to racist voters?
U.S. House of Representatives Encourages Judicial Activism
The 9th Circuit Court has ruled that parents don't have a fundamental right to prevent a school from asking their children questions about sex. Conservative Christians, usually outraged whenever the courts "find" a fundamental right, are outraged about the failure to "find" a fundamental right here. Hypocrisy, you say? Absolutely.
The 9th Circuit Court has ruled that parents don't have a fundamental right to prevent a school from asking their children questions about sex. Conservative Christians, usually outraged whenever the courts "find" a fundamental right, are outraged about the failure to "find" a fundamental right here. Hypocrisy, you say? Absolutely.
Has Feminism Gone Too Far?
There has been greater attention paid in recent weeks to the historical legacy of feminism and the idea that, at least in some ways, feminism has harmed women. How? I'm not entirely sure I understand the argument, but it seems to have to do with the idea that it discourages women from doing things like raising a family.
There has been greater attention paid in recent weeks to the historical legacy of feminism and the idea that, at least in some ways, feminism has harmed women. How? I'm not entirely sure I understand the argument, but it seems to have to do with the idea that it discourages women from doing things like raising a family.