Innovation and politics

This blog describes some ideas that seem to be different from the current train of political thought. I will try to bring up somewhat unique and innovative ideas regarding political systems and policies in the US. I hope those who comment also bring in such ideas.

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

Just Finished Atlas Shrugged

What a monumental book. Whether you agree with her philosophy or not, you have to deal with it. The story is compelling, and the philosophy is logical. It really is a masterwork. I am now undecided as to whether Atlas Shrugged or Ulysses is the best novel of the 20th century.

Just Finished Atlas Shrugged

What a monumental book. Whether you agree with her philosophy or not, you have to deal with it. The story is compelling, and the philosophy is logical. It really is a masterwork. I am now undecided as to whether Atlas Shrugged or Ulysses is the best novel of the 20th century.

Saturday, August 14, 2010

Time to end social security

There regularly seems to be some debate over the solvency of the Social Security System. This seems rather inaccurate, as taxes will simply be raised to cover the deficiency.

However, the important question is whether or not we want such a huge portion of our GDP to go to retirement is left unquestioned. It seems to me that it would be much more preferable for people to handle their own retirement, and those in need to receive food stamps, welfare, and other charity programs that are already set up.

Some retirees need money, some just want the money. We need to limit charity to those who actually need the money to eat, and not those who are simply using it to travel.

Friday, July 30, 2010

Rule of Law, not rule of popularity

Recently, an extremely unpopular man was determined by a unanimous state supreme court to have had errors in the trial that convicted him. They returned his case to the lower court, where the trial will likely not go forward. It is a wonderful day when justice is done, even to the most unpopular of people.

Modern Pharisee: Conviction Reversed for Warren, he gets new trial DECISION UNANIMOUS

Thursday, July 15, 2010

Time to end subsidies of BCS football teams

The Knight Commission recently released a report on college sports, calling for balanced spending.


I think it is criminal that BCS athletic programs are given huge subsidies by the various state governments, especially when states are currently struggling to fund education. It is time to end subsidies to athletics at BCS universities - especially the subtle ones like student fees and out-of-state tuition waivers.

However, states should go further. Look at the huge money that teams in BCS conferences are making from TV. Why not let them keep a couple of million for expenses, then have the general education fund of the state be given the rest. It would return sports in universities to a more balanced position, and allow for significant funding increases in general education.

Wednesday, May 19, 2010

A Nation of Criminals

Here is a very interesting article, that brings up a very good point -- we are all criminals, and we have all broken the law. Those seeking to label and punish "criminals" are really trying to emotionally manipulate the debate.


Monday, March 15, 2010

Race Wars and the US Census

The US Census is coming up, and I encourage everyone to fill the form out, as it serves the important purpose of tallying all the demographics. However, I would also suggest that you be wise in the way you answer.

The first question is your name, followed by your birthdate and age. To me, that is prime identity theft information. I see nothing wrong with asking about age for demographic purposes, but the connecting the two is problematic. My suggestion is to list a false birthdate, such that your age is correct. This is great for identity theft protection, because if a thief steals the information, it will backfire, and be much better than if you just left it blank.

The second and third questions involve ethnicity and race. To me, these seem to be directly related to racial politics, and thus something I feel is insulting. However, my advice is to be strictly honest. When it asks about ethnicity, it is asking about culture and not genetics. Thus, if you have been influenced by Hispanic culture, part of the origins of you and your personality is Hispanic. Check off the box of the type of Hispanic culture that has influenced you the most.

The third question involving race can also be successfully handled in a similar manner. As near as science can say, humanity has it's origins in Africa. Thus, everyone is an “African American,” and should check that box. Were you born in the United States? That makes you a Native American. Were you born in Asia? You are a native Asian. Also, look at racial origins in your religion. According to Jewish, Christian, and Islamic teachings, all nations of the Earth are decedents of Noah, making everyone of Mid-Eastern ancestry. You can check as many boxes as you like, so I suggest you do.

Finally, there is a checkbox below that says “other” and allows you to write in your race. I would encourage you to check that box and write in “Human.” Ultimately, that is the only race we belong to, and the only one to which we should want to belong.