The Beacon

Changing Hearts and Minds

2010-07-11T21:41:00.001-04:00

Since 1946, the Foundation For Economic Education has carried the torch of liberty by educating students of all ages about the “freedom philosophy.” Along with their own programs and events designed to promote and teach the ideas of liberty, FEE has also partnered with several smaller organizations to bring the messages of free-market economics to a growing crowd of followers. For FEE, education is the key to changing the hearts and minds of future generations.

“FEE's mission is to educate, inspire and connect those individuals, primarily but not exclusively high school and college students, who wish to understand and defend private property, free markets, personal character and responsibility, and limited government,” said Lawrence Reed President of FEE. “We don't teach how to balance a checkbook or take out a mortgage; we teach the principles of free enterprise.” He stressed that FEE is an organization based upon education. Without correct education we are doomed to repeat the terrible mistakes we have made in the past.

“FEE hosts summer seminars and year-round debate programs for several thousand high school and college students,” Reed said. “We also publish a highly-acclaimed journal, ‘The Freeman,’ ten times a year.”

By partnering with Economic Thinking, another free market teaching organization, FEE has been able to reach a whole new dimension of high school students. Debate programs sponsored by FEE allow students who are already active in politics and economics to have a clearer view of what it means to uphold free enterprise. “Unless they have a deeper understanding of what free enterprise entails,” said Greg Rhemke, a consultant with Economic Thinking, “these students will go to college and be knocked sideways by knowledgeable professors who are most likely Marxist.”

The mission of FEE is vital today as we are currently embroiled in numerous economic struggles and our economy has taken a turn for the worse. Many wonder if there is a solution. FEE offers one. “Without a solid understanding of how a free economy works and why liberty is indispensable to it, people fall prey to the quick fixes that make things worse in the long run,” Reed said. “They give up their liberties in exchange for false promises of security.”

“Educating people about a free economy is more than just important,” Reed commented. “It's critical for the health and well-being of all of us.” As we move forward and try to stabilize the economy, our government and people will be faced with tough choices. Can we sit by and let our freedoms erode or do we take a stand and take back the liberties our founding fathers held so dear? FEE seeks to inspire a new generation to think in terms of liberty and to uphold the key ideals of freedom.

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Preserving a Vital Species

2010-07-08T22:46:00.000-04:00

Founded in 1999, The Wolf Conservation Center of New York plays a key role in educating the public about wolves and restoring this endangered species to the wild. Since the early 1600s, humans have hunted and trapped wolves either from fear or simply for sport, causing the species to become virtually extinct in North America. This poses grave dangers for the environment since wolves play an integral role in the functioning of a healthy ecosystem.

“The mission of the Wolf Conservation Center,” said Operation Manager, Spencer Wilhelm, “is to educate people about the importance of wolves and the human role in protecting the future.” Without a proper understanding of how the ecosystem works, we may unknowingly destroy an entire vital species without realizing the consequences.

Thus, a key part of the mission of the Wolf Conservation Center is education. Several different programs are offered by the Center. Programs geared towards children, along with programs designed only for adults, allow the Center to inform the public about the significance of protecting the wolf population. There are currently thirty-three wolves on site, ranging from Arctic grey wolves to Mexican and Red wolves. The Center also has three ‘ambassador’ wolves who are specifically trained to get closer to people. Atka, one ambassador wolf, annually travels the country, meeting almost 33,000 people and politicians in a single year. “We hope that Washington will understand the importance of wolves,” Wilhelm said. “Their population is vital to our ecosystem.”

Indeed, wolves help to control the population of other animals, which in turn allows the environment to function properly. For example, almost ten years ago, wolves had become virtually extinct in Yellowstone National Park. This led to a rise in the moose population, allowing for free grazing of smaller plants and grasses. The environment suffered with no natural predator for the moose. Yet, with the reinstatement of wolves to Yellowstone, the moose population has been controlled and the vegetation is vibrant again. Further, wolves can also be seen as an umbrella species. This means that by providing a safe habitat for the wolves, the Center is also providing a safe habitat for other animals. A wolf’s home range is usually quite large and, thus, will encompass many other habitat types. By protecting the wolf, other threatened species may also be saved.

The importance of understanding the necessity for the preservation of America’s wildlife cannot be understated. Without certain species alive and well in our ecosystem, devastating results could eventually impact the human population. The mission of the Wolf Conservation Center is integral to our environment. By preserving the wolf species, a standard is set for protecting other endangered species and creating a stable, balanced ecosystem.

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History Comes Alive at Philipsburg Manor

2010-07-06T14:17:00.001-04:00

At Philipsburg Manor, history comes to life. Located in historic Sleepy Hollow, New York, Philipsburg Manor is one of the oldest national historic landmarks along the east coast. However, it is the history preserved at the manor and the story behind the buildings that truly represents a lost piece of American culture.

In the late 1600s, Fredrick Philips began buying up land in the lower Hudson Valley in order to isolate trade and build an agricultural empire. Philips traded with the local American Indian tribes, other Dutch Settlers, and Englishmen, to finally accumulate close to 52,000 acres of land. In 1750, King William and Queen Mary of England recognized his landholding and granted him a charter for the land.

The land that Philips acquired was hired out to tenant farmers who paid a rent fee and gave a percentage of produce to the Philips family. However, a somewhat untold story, which is preserved at the Philipsburg Manor historic site, is that of the large African American slave population that the Philips built their empire around.

Slavery in the Northern Colonies is often a forgotten story. However, it is an important aspect of American culture. The Philips shipped hundreds of African men, women, and children to the colonies. Twenty-three of these slaves worked at the Manor, operating the mill, tending the slave garden, and taking care of the small livestock population. Though far from their native land, the slaves had a special sense of community.

“It’s important for people to honor those who lived and labored here,” Thom Thacker, Site Director at Philipsburg Manor said. “And it’s important for people to know the correct history of the colonies.” The story of slaves in the colonies is an important concept for Americans to understand in order to fully appreciate freedom in the United States today. Phillipsburg Manor preserves a small number of these stories for the general public.

The programs and tours at Philipsburg manor are designed to inform the public of what life would have been like at the mill in the 1700s. Living historians, dressed in period costumes, work to bring to life the early days of settlers and slaves in the American colonies. “Enslaved Africans here would have had more chance for a community,” living historian Lavada Nahon said. “Something more similar to a West African village.”

Indeed, slaves at Philipsburg manor had a better quality of life than many other slaves in the colonies because they could grow their own food and sell some of the produce for money at the market. Yet this does not erase the fact that they were still slaves. “There is a tendency to make slavery in the North better, “ Nahon commented. “Enslavement is enslavement.”

Ultimately, a complete and accurate understanding of history is important to fully understand and appreciate the American Experience. At Philipsburg manor, history is kept intact and the true story of the early American colonies is lived out every day. The public has a chance to travel back in time, experience life on an 18^th century manor, and widen their understanding of the history of the northern American colonies.

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Preserving the Mirror of Culture

2010-06-24T01:45:00.000-04:00

Reams of celluloid line the hallways. Numerous obscure film magazines are piled on top of each other towering to the sky. This is preservation at work.

Tucked away in Manhattan’s Bowery district and housed in a converted courthouse structure stands Anthology Film Archives. This little institution strives to recover and preserve the films, which have made the independent film industry the reflective lenses of American culture. With careful consideration this small film Archive saves about 15 to 30 films a year. One staff member commented, “Motion pictures are a kind of mirror of our society.”

Robert Haller, Director of Collections and Special Projects, explained the mission of Anthology Archives. “Motion pictures shaped and altered events in the 20^th century,” he said, “If we don’t preserve these films people will lose track of what has happened throughout the decades.” Because people are prone to lose focus of where we have been and of the art that drives our culture, civilizations throughout history have made preservation a cultural mission.

The idea that it is important to preserve art and culture has become a part of human DNA since the time of the Pharaohs. The pyramids and the ancient library of Alexandria are early examples of man’s desire to preserve what culture has produced. In the 20^th century, Anthology Film Archives is a part of a group of organizations determined to preserve film for posterity. Industry leaders such as Turner Broadcasting and Sony Entertainment have also added film preservation and restoration to their agenda. Turner’s cable television channel, Turner Classic Movies, frequently screens restored classic films.

The necessity for these institutions stems from the volatility of nitrate based film stock. These older films in some instances are combustible. One staff member noted that a film reel left in an unopened container for over 20 to 30 years can sometimes spontaneously catch fire and explode when exposed to air. Other older reels of film can simply disintegrate over time, leaving only memory traces of important films. Without the work of organizations like Anthology Archives films such as D.W. Griffith’s The Birth of a Nation and those from renowned director Fritz Lang, would be lost forever.

The Archive’s extensive library is home to numerous editions of independent film study and magazines. “We have editions of FilmKritik, that the German film industry dosen’t have,” commented Haller. “We take pride in our limited and unique collection.” The Archive has a collection of printed media concerning the revolution of independent filmmaking that is found no where else in the world. The Anthology archivers see their work in preserving print media as parallel to preserving the films themselves.

However, it is a tough mission to fully preserve every film produced. Anthology Film Archives focuses on avant gard independent films and filmmakers who have particularly influenced cinema and have changed the way films are produced.

“Preservation is fairly broad,” archiver Andrew Lampert said, “Sometimes we have to create new negatives to ensure that films that have specific historic and aesthetic importance are preserved.” Lampert noted that films are selected for archiving based upon their importance to aesthetic film and cinema. With the viewer and art lover in mind, an intricate process is used to decide which films are preserved and added to the library. The works of filmmakers who have had a specific influence on the industry and have exhibited artwork that rises above pure commercialization are the directors who may see their work enshrined in the Archive.

However, once a film has been restored the next challenge is making it available to the public for screening. To promote their work the Archive shows many restored independent films in their two theaters hoping to raise interest in the preservation of the cinema. “Every time we find newer more comfortable seats from an old theatre we bring them here and install them,” Haller said, “We want our patrons to be comfortable while they enjoy a great film.”

Recent films screened at the Archive include Tanner Charles’ film, Dead or Alive, Jennifer Kroot’s new film, It came from Kuchar, and Jim Finn’s film La Trinchera. Patrons are encouraged to come see new and more obscure films in order to expand the awareness of the public in this important genre in filmmaking.

Even though the work of the archive is integral for the preservation of American culture, the public has little awareness of the importance of the restorative mission and little interest in the Archive itself. Without more involvement from the public, organizations such as Anthology Film Archive may fall by the way side because of a lack of funding.

“All of our staff members work almost three jobs,” Haller said. With only a few staff members, Anthology is trying to improve their mission through public support. New memberships are fairly reasonably priced starting around $60 for one year and further the ability of the Archive to select and preserve films.

The old courthouse built in 1916 serves as a sanctuary for the history of independent film. Film is enshrined while the Archive rallies the public to preserve its heritage. “In a sense this place is a fortress of film,” Haller said, “Film is safe here.”

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Environmental Education is Key To Avoiding Disaster

2010-06-20T18:24:00.000-04:00

Education is the key to success. For Beczak, a small non-profit environmental education center, education is the key to training future advocates of environmental issues. Crises, much like the current oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico can be avoided if future citizens and leaders are educated in ways to keep our planet healthy and safe.

“We do interactive hands on training about the environment,” Cliff Schneider, Director of Beczak said, “We train the future advocates of the environment.” Beczak’s mission is clear. It is important to inform young students about tough environmental issues in order to preserve and restore our environment.

With numerous programs targeted at younger students, Beczak aims to cultivate a generation of involved citizens. As we near almost two months of oil gushing into the Gulf many species are endangered and people search for answers. Beczak helps to provide those answers and teach people how to avoid future environmental disasters.

Beczak seeks to educate children through programs designed to inform through fun interactive learning. Hands on nature programs include ‘River Explorers’ which throughout the summer months encourage children to learn about their environment. These programs are specifically targeted at learning about the eco-system native to the lower Hudson valley but also target a broader range of environmental issues.

Children are encouraged to keep their surroundings clean and safe. Limiting pollution and understanding the dangers of littering are key components of preserving our planet. In time and with the dedicated efforts of centers like Beczak we can begin to restore our planet.

Many have compared this oil spill to the Exxon-Valdez tanker explosion. “I think it’s much bigger,” Schneider said, “It will have much broader impact.” The amount of oil pouring into the gulf will potentially damage ecosystems for hundreds of years to come.

With recent estimates of nearly 60,000 gallons a day of oil spilling into gulf stream waters, this current oil spill crises will have a massive impact on the ecosystem and our environment in years to come.

“Hopefully we’ll be able to train more engineers, more scientists, more teachers, more investment brokers,” Schneider said, “So that they know the role of the environment. The crisis in the Gulf of Mexico concerning the BP oil spill has less to do with individuals trying to actively destroy the environment and more to do with simple negligence. Of course, this type of behavior can be just as devastating.

“What people need to know is that it is an eco-system,” Schneider said, “We all have a role to play.” Americans must keep this fact in mind when deciding tough environmental issues in the future. To ensure that our environment is livable and safe, we must take care of our planet and encourage our political and business leaders to take an active role in preserving our planet.
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Check out these links!
http://theoildrum.com/
www.epa.gov

Dangerous City

2010-06-11T23:01:00.000-04:00

With the economy taking a turn for the worse, more people are looking to bicycles as an alternative form of transportation in New York City.

But is it safe?

New York’s city streets are a dangerous place and as more cyclists take to the pavement, riders face many challenges. Not every street is suitable for bike travel. Potholes and rush hour traffic make for a hazardous trip home.

“Ultimately cycling has become a lot safer,” said Wiley Norvell of Transportation Alternatives. “Injury and fatality rates have either stayed steady or dropped even as the number of cyclists has tripled and quadrupled.”

City officials use traffic volume statistic to map out specific bike routes and patterns providing the safest routes for biking to and from your home or office. This new routing system accommodates riders and removes cyclists from more dangerous streets.

Still, many hazards persist. Road construction, speeding motorists and thousands of walkers also present challenges.

“We’re pushing more of a lifestyle choice,” said John Keoshgerian of Zen Bikes located in Chelsea on Manhattan’s West Side. “We always advise a helmet because that’s safety 101. We try to tell our new bike owners that you are a functioning member of society and you have to obey the rules of the road.”

As New York City adjusts to a change in transportation methods, bikers will have to adapt as well to changing traffic patterns. Staying alert and following the rules of the road can make for a safe and cheap way of travel.

- Rider Mike Samuel Poses in Photo, John Bianchi Photographer

Watch This Video on Travel in the City

~ The Watchman

Good Morning Bob...

2010-05-17T13:15:00.004-04:00

This morning Bob Case gave a rousing morning lecture concerning worldviews and worldview thinking. I have to say that although most of these concepts I have dallied into before, hearing them again is not only beneficial but it also lays the groundwork for a course that will prove to be a powerful force in the lives of 16 young journalists.

Obviously the beginning of any great course should start with at least a small discussion of what it means to come from a Christian perspective and what should and does define a worldview. Robert Case made it clear in his morning intro that this is a fundamental concept and one that should drive the mind of any journalist. None of us are blank slates and our worldviews do indeed define how we view and communicate our ideas.

Al Mohler, the featured speaker of the day, continued the discussion of worldview with an interesting discussion concerning the basis of worldviews and what it means to interpret our world in a way that honors God. In this age of postmodern existentialism, journalists have taken the road of a pluralistic moral interpretation of the universe. Without a strong grounding of positive moral ethics, it is hard to come to hard conclusions about tough moral issues. As Christians we have a duty to bring to light the ethics of the gospel when pulling into perspective the issues that are swirling around our media sphere today.

It's been an interesting day so far as we are ready for another set of lectures. I am looking forward to more interpretation from Al Mohler and the chance to learn from such a distinguished speaker is a unique opportunity. As always with any speaker the quotes of the day are priceless which make for a rousing morning talk.

Check out Al Mohler's website here:

http://www.albertmohler.com/

Check out WJI here:

http://www.worldji.com/

Tune in next time for more!

For now, this is the Watchman reporting from the Empire State Building...

Wrestling with Gumby...

2010-05-17T11:22:00.001-04:00

Day 1 of the World Journalism Institute is underway!

I'm here reporting these three weeks and I will be sure to give you all updates on all sorts of experiences and insights I gain while here at WJI.

Yesterday we moved into the WJI dorms. I have to say that the dorms were much better furnished and presentable than numerous other places I have stayed. I was impressed by the accomadations and staying at the Herald Towers on 34th street will prove to be a luxurious and comfortable stay for the weeks we are here.

Once I got settled into the apartments, I decided to stock up. Myself and a few new friends headed to Kmart to pick up 'supplies' mostly chips and soda. What else does every guy need to live for three weeks?

Before I went to bed last night I walked around outside the Towers and found a nice spot to sit and chat with my friends. The city has blocked off some of the street along Broadway and 34th and it makes for a nice little spot to hang out and chat.

Also it's important to note that I chose a desk by a window. I have an amazing view of 6th avenue and it makes for that 'city' feel. I'm hoping that if I do get some free time maybe I'll be able to work on my own writing and perhaps pen some new masterpieces.

Well that's all for now...

Grove City Women's Rugby

2010-05-02T15:46:00.002-04:00

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Valediction Shines Bright on Grove City's Campus

2010-04-20T15:51:00.016-04:00

Their name is Valediction. On the quiet campus of Grove City College this small group of five individuals is slowly carving out a name for themselves as a hot new campus sensation as they look to hit it big in the music industry. For Josh Fischer, Joel Fiscus, Brian Danielson, Christopher Downing and Caleb Breckon, the sky is the limit as they have already played their first

successful show and have a spot set on a radio production later this month. With several songs already mastered the band looks to solidify their status and become the newest sensation in music.

Their first successful show at Grove City College was met with cheers from their fans and their name has made its way around campus. The band is currently looking to expand their repertoire and play and write songs in the vein of numerous genres. Perhaps that’s what makes them so appealing. They don’t have one sound. Their mix of a heavy metal, coupled with 80’s guitar riffs and solos provides the force of their music, but their acoustic sound shows a subtler and gentler side. Versatility and uniqueness is a key component of the band.

The guys are a solid group of individuals and the band is centered on camaraderie and just having a good time. Maybe that’s why their music is quality. Just a bunch of guys doing what they love and having fun at it. If you get a chance to listen to one of their songs, you’ll be a fan. Check back for dates to upcoming shows and for more information about the band. Check them out; you’ll be an instant fan!

Here's an interview with the band's lead singer, Josh Fischer!

download Valedictioni Audio Interview_1.mp4

Check out a video of the Band here!

Check out the Band here on their Purevolume website: http://www.purevolume.com/Valediction

Check out other Alternative Rock Bands here: http://www.kcrw.com/

~ The Watchman

2010-04-18T22:37:00.001-04:00

Coming this weekend to Grove City College is the premier of the new inspirational film The Perfect Game. The film tells the story of a group of young Mexican little leaguers who overcome obstacles to make it to and finally win the Little League World Series. The film stars Clifton Collins Jr., Cheech Marin and Moises Arias who gained acclaim starring on the Disney Channel’s famous show, Hannah Montana. The film is sure to be a hit with younger audiences and provides a family friendly message designed to impact youth in a positive way. The Film’s producer, Jim Van Eerden who is a Grove City graduate states that, “the film is in the vein of the old Disney films. Somewhat predictable but ultimately fun, exciting and family friendly”. The film runs one hour fifty-five minutes and should provide enough attention grabbing moments to keep audiences interested.

The premier has become a social event for the community as members of the local baseball teams including little league and high school have been invited to attend the premier. Grove City College will be showing the film in Crawford Auditorium hoping to fill the almost one thousand seat venue with spectators. Free food and a raffle will take place to give the event more of a family friendly feel. The Show starts at four o’clock and members of the communications department are looking forward to this film as being the first in a new tradition of Convergent Community Films promoted on Campus. Come out to the show!

Check out the Film here!

Hot Tub Time Machine

2010-04-02T22:57:00.001-04:00

We’d all like to have the ability to relive the past right? What wouldn’t we all give to go back and change that one conversation, go back and not take that last drink, rethink that one bad decision? Are we given one life to live or is it possible to change those circumstances by a trick of fate? Steve Pink director of Hot Tub Time Machine decided to take a look at what happens if we have the opportunity to change our actions in the past and the effect our choices have on the future.

Opening soon in theaters, Hot Tub Time Machine tells the story of three close friends who have drifted apart in life due to their changing circumstances and lifestyle. Adam (John Cusack) has washed up in life, losing his girlfriend and most of possessions. His buddy Nick (Craig Robinson) never actualized his career in music and works at a pet grooming facility. They are brought together again when their friend Lou (Rob Corddy) attempts suicide. As a way to bring Lou out of depression Adam and Nick decide to reunite at the same ski lodge the three frequented when they were younger in hopes they can relive some of their past. A younger nephew of Adam (Clark Duke) tags along to complete the ensemble cast.

In an interview with Craig Robinson he related that it was fantastic to work with John Cusack and the rest of the cast. ‘Almost every scene in the movie had some bit of improve to it. I was drawn to the film because of the script and the actors in the film.’ With a cast as noteworthy as this how can Hot Tub not score bug with audiences?

A comedy really sets out to do one thing. Make you laugh. And although Hot Tub did have a few funny moments, the characters and situations lacked the spark necessary to deliver belly aches for two hours. Actors such as Saturday Night Live’s Chevy Chase and veteran Craig Robinson were under utilized as the film focused more on a depressed John Cusack and a loud angry Rob Corddy. In an interview with director Steve Pink he related that a comedy should be funny otherwise you shouldn’t see it at all. While Hot Tub had its moments, the film dragged out a little longer than necessary and with too much emphasis on grating characters.

Steve Pink noted that the tone of the film is ‘massively reckless and irresponsible.’ The intent of Hot Tub was to follow in the footsteps of semi-slapstick and potty humor films such as the American Pie Series and older films such as Better off Dead. Clark Duke, star of cult comedy Sex Drive, played his role well as the doubting member of the group intent on keeping everything in the past intact so that the future is not disrupted by a change in the character’s actions. However this is the subtle message of Hot Tub. If we were thrown back into the past, what wouldn’t we change in an effort to rectify mistakes and take those chances we wish we had?

This message is key to the twist ending because all the characters realize that through simply changing a few circumstances, their lives are made so much better or worse. Yet this lends to a very selfish and self centered approach to life. Ultimately we can’t control all our situations and it’s the lessons we learn in life through mistakes and achievements that shape us and make us more mature. Our failings shouldn’t make us depressed for long. We should turn adversity into success because in real life we don’t get the chance to go back and change the past. The choices we make right now do have an impact on the future. That’s why we have to consider wisely before making decisions.

For those interested in content advisory, Hot tub certainly earns its R rating. Comedy needs to have a little believability but also push the envelope of what we know might never really happen. Obviously, some of the scenes wouldn’t be as funny without pushing limits however some of the jokes seemed forced and unnecessary. In fact if Hot Tub simply tightened up a few loose ends and trimmed down a few scenes, a good film is waiting to show its face.

As a whole, Hot Tub tried to be both funny and philosophical. It certainly had its chuckle moments but in the end didn’t make the cut as a memorable comedy. If you like slapstick humor, go see the film. If you are not up for a wild ride full of crazy stunts and reckless behavior then don’t go see it. Ultimately there are better comedies out there. Hot Tub isn’t worth your eight bucks.

The Weary Kind

2010-02-02T12:17:00.007-05:00

Opening soon in theaters, the new film Crazy Heart, from rookie director Scott Cooper, tells the story of a washed up hard living country music star Bad Blake (Jeff Bridges) as he learns the true meaning of life. A star studded cast fills out the plot with an Oscar worthy performance from Jeff Bridges and an excellent supporting cast including Robert Duvall and Maggie Gyllenhaal.

According to director Scott Cooper, Crazy Heart is in essence a character study. Growing up in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, Cooper listened to many old vinyl recordings of the great country music legends. He wanted to tell a story that was close to his heart. In this film, we learn a little about the man, the music, and the artistry behind the music. Through his romance with journalist Jean Craddock, Bad learns the meaning of redemption and ultimately through his struggles he pens his greatest masterpiece.

Director Scott Cooper has always been drawn to the lives of country music stars and has been an avid fan of their music since childhood. “I always grew up in a household filled with art,” Cooper related, “And I wanted people to experience all the things that Bad did. Loss, pain, hope, redemption.” Cooper worked hard to give the film a realistic feel, recruiting country musicians while basing Bad’s character off of some of the most noteworthy country musicians of the 60s and 70s.

Crazy Heart has been compared to the recent picture, The Wrestler, a film by Darron Aronofsky, with some saying that this film is essentially the wrestler with a steel guitar. However, Crazy Heart is so much more than that. As opposed to that film, Crazy Heart has a more uplifting ending, Everything may not work out the way Bad wants but he fixes his life and is a changed man working to make his change permanent. As a recovering alcoholic, we’re not sure where Bad will end up but we know that he is working and his heart is now in the right place. Essentially, he learns the important lesson that second chances exist for all of us and that it’s never too late to get back on the road to recovery.

What is interesting to note is that without struggles, we as humans would lack powerful stories to tell. Through his life Bad was able to relate to his fans truths about life because he had experienced those very hardships. This is what inspired Scott Cooper to make this film. Telling stories through art, music, and film is what colors our society. We all search for someone who talks to us on our level. Films like Crazy Heart we can relate to because we have been there. We have done that. We have learned the hard lessons.

At this year’s Oscar nominations, Crazy Heart will be up for several awards. Having already received two Golden Globes, one for best performance by an actor, Jeff Bridges, and another for the theme “The Weary Kind”, Crazy Heart will be a frontrunner for several Oscars. Actor Jeff Bridges delivered a superb performance as the lead, Bad Blake, fully assuming the character and making us believe in Bad, pull for him in tough times and applaud when he finally gets back on the right road. Academy Award winner Robert Duvall once again assumes a believable character, providing the friend to Bad who aids him in his recovery and acts as his moral compass. Maggie Gyllenhaal also delivered an apt performance as Bad’s love interest who acts essentially as the catalyst for his redemption.

Ultimately Crazy Heart is one of those few films that are lacking from the industry today. We need great storytellers who tell stories that we can relate to. This certainly won’t be the last effort from Scott Cooper as he certainly has more stories to tell. “It would be personal and character driven,” Cooper hinted and we’re sure to see more of his films in the future. Crazy Heart was an uplifting saga of one man’s life journey. We can always appreciate stories like these because they touch us in ways that are personal and unique. Go see Crazy Heart. It’s worth your eight bucks.
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Reprinted from The Collegian.

The Blind Side Packs a Punch

2010-01-07T01:31:00.002-05:00

In three seconds Lawrence Taylor changed football. In three seconds he changed how the game is played. In three seconds he instantly changed Joe Theismann’s football career. In three seconds he changed the life of Micahel Oher.

The Blind Side, directed by John Lee Hancock tells the true life story of a homeless African-American boy who is taken in by an extraordinary family and goes on to become a first round NFL draft pick at left tackle. With the help of the Tuohys, Michael lives up to his potential both on and off the field. He becomes successful in his studies and ultimately fulfills his dream of playing at Ole Miss University and beyond.

However, The Blind Side, is so much more than simply another football movie about a down trodden second stringer who pulls his life together and makes a difference. For those of you who are fans of the classic sports film, Rudy, I would highly reccommed The Blind Side. What this film portrays is of course the football and Oher’s training. But it also delivers a powerful message concerning rascism, Christianity, kindness, and protection.

For those of you who may have read my review on cultural evangelism in film, this movie is exactly the type of fare we should look to see in theaters. The Blind Side delivers a wholesome story with a powerfully uplifting message without being blatantly Christian. There is certainly mention of the Tuohy’s religion and how Mrs. Tuohy specifically, is motivated to help others, but it isn’t stressed to a fault. In fact most of the actors are not overtly Christian in their daily lives. Tim McGraw who plays Mr. Tuohy obviously has roots in Christianity but Sandra Bullock to my knowledge has made no public proclamation of faith.

What I found even more powerful than the religious message was the actual heavy dealing with the issue of racism. After seeing the film, I did some research across the blogosphere and in numerous online publications to see what the critical opinions concerning this issue would be. What I saw were basically two schools of thought.

One side seemed to proclaim that the film was portraying white people as the only ‘way out’ for underprivileged blacks. This is basically white propaganda designed to make whites feel warm and fuzzy inside afterwards. After all it’s the white woman who brings the ‘black giant’ to a ‘new land’ and forces him to accept her culture and become a different person. King Kong anyone?

However, in my opinion I cannot help but see the Tuohys as benevolent individuals devoid of the racism one would seem to look for among whites and blacks in the South. They extended a helping hand to someone in need and helped that person overcome difficulty in their life. It would be idiotic to slap away a helping hand simply because it is a white hand. This mentality is reverse racism at its finest.

The other mentality that I saw was that viewers, especially blacks, who see this film, should be happy for Oher but he should realize that he is black and should embrace that. He should want to stay with his own people and not become so chummy with whites. After all, white people hate blacks and only care about them for what they can be used for ultimately. Once again I think this is a classic example of reverse racism.

As I said, I believe the film portrayed a wholesome story. It didn’t matter what color the characters were. It was the kindness of the Tuohys that mattered. It was Michael’s achievement that counted. It is the story of one man overcoming adversity that uplifts the soul. It’s these types of movies which should be promoted for their relevance and impact.

It must be noted that with the discussion of racism the film makes one other heavy point. Although Christianity is not shown as a major component of the film, when it is pointed out, it is for a reason. Michael’s transformation begins when he is enrolled at a Christian private school. Latter he is helped by a woman motivated by Christian principles, who ultimately helps him achieve his dream. It is through Christianity that racial barriers disappear and that we look at people for who they are and not to the color of their skin for their defining factors.

We would do well to remember that in Christ there is neither male nor female, slave nor free, Jew nor Greek. We are all equal under Christ’s banner and we should treat others as we would treat him. In America there will never be a full recovery of race relations until both sides of the aisle accept Christ as the unifying factor both can share.

The Blind Side was an excellent film all around. I was finally happy to see a movie that didn’t have some sort of propaganda attached and gave me a great feeling walking out of the theater. Art should uplift or provoke thought. The Blind Side did both and gave me a good laugh along the way too. This movie was worth my eight bucks.

Sherlock Holmes and Cultural Evangelism

2010-01-05T00:10:00.004-05:00

As an avid fan of Sherlock Holmes and his many adventures, I recently attended a showing of Guy Ritchie’s new action flic, Sherlock Holmes. After seeing numerous previews and trailers, I was set for a heart thumping blockbuster filled with fight sequences, steamy romance, and an excellent script, chock full of quotables. For eight bucks, I don’t demand much, just my money’s worth.

As a whole the film was directed well. Robert Downey, Jr. and Rachel McAdams were tolerable and the story itself was engaging. However something was lacking to make this film an extraordinary seasonal blockbuster.

Now to say that Sherlock Holmes didn’t deliver as an action film isn’t necessarily the case. Visually this film was a work of art and the acting wasn’t as stilted as most Hollywood fare today. However, I left the theater with a detached feeling. I had enjoyed parts of the film and was engaged by the story, but something made me unable to connect with the characters and fully enjoy the film.

As I drove home, I pondered the possible reasons behind my disillusionment. What had made me feel so empty, per, se or what had left me with a sense, that the underlying themes of the movie were pervasively opposed to values of Christianity? Even if this was so, what I couldn’t figure out was that there had been nothing in the film which was necessarily repulsive. There was no nudity, no graphic violence, and no foul language. Even the presence of the visualization of occult practices had shown them to be evil and worthy of defeat.

Then it occurred to me. On a purely theological and spiritual level, as Christians we have awareness of good and evil and when a movie is ‘evangelizing’ a worldview. When peeled to its source a virulently anti-Christian worldview must evoke in us feelings of abhorrence for that message. The notion came to me that a film doesn’t have to graphically portray a perverted message to sway and influence the public. In fact, Satan didn’t use a graphic portrayal of life and death when tempting Eve. He simply challenged God’s status and the truth of the law. I’ve come to understand that Sherlock Holmes presented so much of what pervades Hollywood and the world today through very sly means. The greatest battle the church will fight is not against open Atheism or Islamic fascism but against syncretism.

Although all art is a reflection of culture, some movies and books can be specifically evangelistic in their approach. A greater difference exists between the wizardly popular Harry Potter movie series and The Lord of the Rings, than there does between Sherlock Holmes and Brokeback Mountain. The messages that both contrasted films try to portray are vastly different. While the Harry Potter series deals with the questions of ultimate evil, ever-present spirituality, demonology, and wizardry, The Lord of the Rings simply presents the struggle of good and evil utilizing redemptive themes without ever glorifying magic or wizardry. In the same way, Sherlock Holmes and Brokeback Mountain are quite similar in that what the present. It is an appeal for men to accept humanism and to live as you see fit.

Thus as I watched Sherlock Holmes, I realized that the movie was simply using the newest adventure of the super sleuth and his faithful friend Dr. Watson as a medium for presenting a much larger message full of specific cultural relevance. A much darker theme was prevalent throughout.

Now the actual specificities of the message are mostly irrelevant. Suffice to say that the same themes exist which pervade Hollywood culture today. Mystical humanism and the glorification of man’s individuality and prowess are central. There was indeed a very occult undertone as well and I would encourage those interested in learning more about this phenomenon in media today to read my previous article posted here to expand your understanding of this occurrence.

However as I said, I am less interested in listing the points of a pagan philosophy in as much as stating that it is pagan and that’s all that really matters. The point of this article is to state that we as Christians must become aware of the pagan themes existent in most areas of culture today and to understand why we can’t simply absorb mainstream fare and enjoy films without questioning the motivation of the artist.

So why not? Why can’t we simply enjoy Sherlock for what it is, just another Hollywood action flic right? If we simply check our ‘morals’ at the door we should be fine right? I mean it’s just a movie why look for more than that?

This type of rationalization could be extrapolated to the lifestyle of the biblical character, Lot, who lived inside Sodom while being fully aware of the depravity of that city. As Sodom was judged, the ideas which these types of films seek to promote are deserving of God’s judgment. If we as Christians absorb this ideological message are we not simply acting as Lot did in turning a blind eye to the imagery?

As I said, not every film which isn’t necessarily ‘Christianized’ has a blatantly evangelistic pagan message. Certain films make this a pointed part of the agenda of the movie. Sherlock Holmes made this move. I couldn’t help but see through the dialogue of the characters and the plot of the story that this film glorified selfishness, humanistic ideals, misogyny, and provided an interesting commentary on statism. It might be noted that by setting the film up for a sequel actually bolsters the point that evil can never really be defeated even by Holmes’ most superb efforts. There will always be another criminal to catch.

Is there a benefit to watching an evangelistic film? Can we learn something from them or should we simply look for cinema with a straightforward theme? If so, what is that theme and what should we be looking for?

Well, I think the principle is clear. It’s important to be aware and not shut ourselves off from a movie like Sherlock Holmes. In fact it is beneficial to watch a film like this in order to persuade people of the error and to bolster your own understanding and faith in Christianity. However, don’t simply go into an evangelistic film blind. It has a specific message which it is trying to relay that is beyond simply a good vs. evil battle. I think the bottom line is to understand that if you’re looking for ‘entertainment’ you won’t find it with pagan evangelistic movies. Search elsewhere.

If we can no longer watch movies as the general public does, our minds numbed to simply absorbing the violence, sex, and underlying themes, what are we left to watch? The answer isn’t to simply to refrain from the theater all together. A happy balance must exist. Just don’t sit in your seat and absorb the film and praise it with your friends even if you know there was an anti-Christian message.

The key is to critically watch movies but to avoid films which have that pervasive message. Otherwise, unless you are watching one of these films for educational purposes you won’t be entertained. I don’t know about you but sometimes I like to simply sit and enjoy a good story and not be bombarded with a Hollywood agenda. Finding movies can be tough but with a little insight and a good review here and there it can be done.

I guess ultimately It’s important to know what to look for. I would suggest searching out films that aren’t Hollywood blockbusters for starters. Although some of the Academy award winners in the last five years have been worthwhile most have disappointed. Look to movies which have real life stories or actually have human characters without super powers involved. Almost all superhero movies will have some sort of humanistic message that glorifies and promotes some human to semi-god status. Fictional stories can be great but beware of those films which glorify perverted lifestyles or contain pervasive offensive material. In essence, a good film like any good story is one that has a positive message. When we go to the movies we want to be lifted up or see a film with an impact. We want to learn something about life but as Christians we can’t be taught a message which is fundamentally against our worldview.

The next time I go to the theater hopefully I will see a film that I can actually enjoy; one that is thought provoking but doesn’t contain a blatant Hollywood message. A film that actually has content but isn’t so gratuitous as to make it unwatchable. I know that across Christendom standards will vary and everyone will look for something out of a film. However, this is a plea for us to wake up and stop absorbing what Hollywood is feeding us. Take a stand against the mainstream fare and demand quality films.

Below I’ve included a list of the top one hundred films of the past decade that I believe are worth your viewing time. In the future I will try to add lists of other great films. I know I can’t please everyone but these films are a start. Some of these films are not family friendly so use caution when viewing. Here you go. They are in no particular order of relevance.

We must not be like Lot who turned a blind eye to the depravity of Sodom. As Christians we are called to stand in the tide and proclaim Christ. If you're looking for quality entertainment in media today the pool is limited. However, don't simply go to a movie just to go to the movies. Make an educated guess. And in the event that there isn't anything worthwhile showing, don't go. Hey, at least you saved yourself eight bucks.

They Run This Town - What you Didn’t know About the Music Industry

2009-12-29T00:50:00.008-05:00

Strange symbols, weird rituals, cryptic messages? These types of characteristics are usually indicative of a mystical cult but not of your favorite pop artists or the music industry today, right? Over the past several years numerous music videos and performances have raised questions as to the motivation and meaning behind the music. Could there be themes in music and videos which are lost on the casual listener but which contain strong cultural messages designed to shape society?

Recently numerous songs have been released which point to directly to blatantly anti-Christian themes. Artists like, Jay-Z, Rhianna, Beyonce, and most notably Lady Gaga have included in their music a pointed agenda which can only be interpreted as a push by these artists and the media industry as a vehicle to challenge societal norms. Could it be possible that our favorite music artists are simply vehicles for the industry to send these subliminal messages to our society in order to effect change on a grand scale?

After watching the Video Music Awards on MTV earlier this year, many viewers were struck by the strange performances and several outright references to Satan. Among the unexplainable creepiness of the show was included a eulogy to Michael Jackson elevating him to god status, a public mock-suicide by Lady Gaga, and a public declaration of a prayer to the ‘Darklord Satan’ headed by Jack Black.

But what exactly are the themes and images being portrayed today? Is there a link to the occult or is this simply a giant coincidence. Everyone has seen the satanic imagery in The Rolling Stones classic, Sympathy for the Devil, Led Zeppelin’s, Stairway to Heaven, and Ozzy Osbourne’s, War Pigs. However, could this trend also be masked today in the popular music industry with an innocent exterior.

Take for instance pop icon Beyonce who has become the idol of American teenagers for the last decade. One of Beyonce’s newest hits ‘Sweet Dreams’ outlines a strange conversation between her and a lover. Yet, this song seems to have a deeper meaning which can be seen through the symbolism of the music video. It is important to remember that music videos are meticulously planned out, imagery is key. The video begins with a dove appearing to levitate Beyonce off of a bed in what may be seen as an allusion to occult practices and black magick, followed by numerous strange images throughout the video.

Here it is important to note that Aleister Crowley once labeled as the ‘wickedest man in the world’ founded Ordo Templi Orientis (Order of the Eastern Temple), which is a professed satanic cult and incorporated into its sigil a dove which is flying downwards connected with specific imagery of the Eye of Horus inside of a triangle. Coincidences, perhaps, but coincidence is just that. If a certain image is repeated we may begin to derive that a theme is prevalent. So where else do we see this type of imagery?

Along with Beyonce, another pop icon who has traveled down a mysteriously dark path is Rhianna. For the past few years this R&B star has climbed to the top using her looks and upbeat style to join Beyonce as a regular on the charts. Recently though she has found success by taking a much different approach to her art.

Her new #1 single, “Russian Roulette” displays a disturbing theme made only more unsettling by the images portrayed, in her music video. In it, she seems to be enslaved, tortured, and put through traumatic events. However, the lyrics are turning the most heads. Although this song was an instant hit almost immediately upon its release there were complaints regarding the heavy suicidal message permeating the song.

More importantly this symbology is showing up far too often in Rhianna’s music and photo shoots to write it off as coincidence. A good example of this comes in another one of her newest hits where she teams up with Jay-Z to produce ‘Run This Town’. In the song both artists sing some unnerving lyrics but it is the music video that has some wondering. Unknown to most of his fans Jay-Z grew up under the tutelage of Dr. York, the founder and leader of the Islamic, black power fraternal group the Nuwaubian society. ‘Run This Town’ and its music video have an undercurrent of violence and black power which just might be a harkening back to Jay-Z’s roots connected with a possible vision of the future.

Jay-Z has also created a clothing line including designs which have many undeniable occult references. The imagery on his shirts contain the eye of Horus, obvious Masonic symbols and phrases, and direct references to Satanism. “Do What Thou Wilt”, which stretches across one shirt is a phrase taken from Aleister Crowley’s, Book of the Law, which he used to found Ordo Templi Orientis. It is apparent that with the type of imagery Jay-Z has chosen to place on his clothing line and with his direct endorsement of Crowley’s iconic phrase, he is taking a pitted stance against Christianity.

If all the coincidences that have been outlined can be brushed aside there still remains the outrageous performances and influence of our newest pop icon, Lady Gaga. We all love her music and think her outfits are crazy but few can watch or listen to her music without noticing blatant sexual references or the darker more sinister aspects to her music videos. Throughout her music video to her hit single ‘Bad Romance’, themes such as a triangular hand sign with her eye in the center and references to the satanic church’s sigil of Baphomet, the ancient identification of Satan, are prevalent. Once again this is the same shout out to Crowley’s imagery from the sigil of O.T.O. However her performance at the VMA’s where she committed a ritualistic mock-suicide in front of 50 million viewers sealed her image as an artist at least interested in the occult.

What do we conclude when observing these signs, symbols, and lyrical messages that permeate the music of the industry’s biggest stars? Whether one buys into the conspiracy theories, ties it to the occult or links it to secret societies, once an individual is made aware of these repetitive subliminal messages, one must contemplate the personal implications that this knowledge brings. As Christians we must decide whether it all amounts to a mere expression of art or something more sinister. If there is really an agenda being propagated through music, and if the industry is actually aligning itself with the dark spiritual forces we know to be active in this world, we must take a stand and control what we allow to perpetrate our minds and speak out against this agenda.

Democratic Façade

2009-11-25T22:29:00.000-05:00

In the current political climate the debate continues to rage as to whether the spread of democracy is beneficial to recipients and is worth the cost to the benefactor. Since the 1800s with the British conquest of the Middle East and eastern Asia, we have seen the influence and implementation of western ideals not only in the socio-economic sector but also in the political climates of the region. However, the question remains of whether we should allow assimilation of western heritage to be spontaneous among the culture and political climate of these nations or whether we should implement, often through force, the systems of governance we enjoy in the West.

After the terrorist attack on 9/11, the Bush Administration launched a campaign to free the citizens of Afghanistan from the oppression of the Taliban. Further, in 2003, the Bush administration launched Operation Iraqi Freedom. This two-fold mission was to topple the regime of dictator Saddam Hussein and to free the people of Iraq. Both of these military missions brought with them the flag of democracy and western idealism. In both cases, these countries welcomed and accepted the end of tyranny and began to follow the western example of building representative democratic systems of governance.

While these systems are not identical to those in the west they do highly resembled their western counterparts. With, this resemblance comes not only the good resemblances but also the bad. The key here is to note that we must think of these nations experiencing the same building stages that our country underwent at the outset of the American experiment. Thus, problems akin to voter fraud, tainted elections, political corruption and other problems will not only be heightened but be more blatant as these countries try to absorb a system with which they have had almost no prior experience.

This is the exact problem we see arising in the Middle East currently. In the past several weeks the election cycle in Afghanistan has been watched by the world and members of the state department. In a tightly contested race incumbent Hamid Karzai was declared the winner of the election and will serve as President for another term. However, the election was not decided without a debate. Challenger Abdullah Abdullah voiced his belief that the election had been fraught with voter fraud. Also, he decided to simply drop out of the race even though a runoff had been called between him and Karzai. This left Karzai with less than enough votes to win but he was declared the winner regardless.

The great statesmen Ronald Reagan stated, “Let us now begin ... a crusade for freedom that will engage the faith and fortitude of the next generation ... to foster the infrastructure of democracy.”This illustrates the point that without structure and an adherence to political form even a democratic process will devolve into anarchy. It is important for Middle Eastern nations to maintain the appearance of structured government for western democracy spreading to have a chance. Whether this will be the case remains to be seen.

Although Reagan may have had a strong belief in the rise of democracy, it is still important to note that without the implementation of certain principles, democracy will not flourish no matter how fertile the ground may be. A nation must adopt a stance of political transparency and honesty to maintain the freedom in the election cycle. Also, the exchange of ideas and the right of the people to elect a new leader must be upheld. These two ideals may or may not have been infringed upon in Afghanistan but the Afghanis must be careful that this does not pervade international perception.

This principle is widespread in this region of the world. In Iran, the June 16 elections rallied many Iranians to rally around the cry of election fraud. Protesting broke out in Tehran as many Iranians viewed the election as fraudulent. Further, although a western backed candidate in Prime Minister Saad Hariri won the election in Lebanon, he has been unable to adequately form a cabinet and unify the country along mainstream ideals.

This is not to say that democratic ideals do not suit or cannot flourish in the Mid East. Elements of the Jordanian government are quite democratic. Iraq has also shown that this nation, still in the early stages of recovering from brutal dictatorship, is quite adept at absorbing a representative government. This goes to show that it is the inherent core principles and the willingness of individuals to participate and uphold democracy which will allow it to flourish.

In essence democratic ideals provide a heavy burden to the citizens who wish to implement them in society. Those who wish to implement this system of governance must also realize the responsibility but ultimately the overwhelming benefit of representative government. It remains to be seen whether or not young governments will effectively handle the changing mentality of individuals and foster a mindset of freedom in the Middle East.

Henry Kissinger In His own Words

2009-11-25T22:24:00.000-05:00

In the midst of the Cold War the World looked for a leader. The world looked for a man who was qualified but also possessed the intangible ability to influence world affairs through effective foreign policy. America found that man in Henry Kissinger.

Even today, few can argue with the credentials and achievements of Henry Kissinger. The elder statesman has accumulated some of the most prestigious awards in the realm of diplomacy. While he achieved a doctoral degree and pursued a professorial position at Harvard, Kissinger was appointed Secretary of State under President Richard Nixon and was awarded the Nobel Peace prize for bringing an effective end to US involvement in Vietnam.

The Gilda’s Club along with the Alcoa foundation provided a perfect venue in Heinz Hall in Pittsburgh, for Kissinger and former secretary of the Treasury Paul O’Neill, to discuss in an interactive engagement many tough questions facing world leaders today. The Student Government Association here at Grove City provided the means for a select few students to attend this event which was highly successful. Special thanks must be given to SGA for providing students with the opportunity to listen to Kissinger and O’Neill in this rare appearance together.

It was inspiring to see this man in the flesh. Watching and listening to Kissinger answer tough questions about his time serving this country, it was important to understand the depth of his experience. There was no doubt that he possessed an understanding of world affairs far above the average statesman and his explanations for many of the policies that he carried out during his time as Secretary only proved his competence and intelligence. After retiring from formal office, Kissinger has made it a point to continue to advise world leaders and to accept speaking engagements around the world to share his insights into public policy.

Not only did he offer explanations but he also provided insight into global policy and stated many unique points of view concerning many of today’s pressing issues. He said, “the role of diplomacy is to explain what your motivations are, and then to glean the same from the other side, and then to put the two together in compatibility.” Kissinger noted that he is optimistic that this age may be one filled with advances but that world leaders must think through their decisions on foreign policy with great care to avoid conflicts.

Kissinger tackled such questions as America’s relationship with Iran, stressing that we must consider that Iran can be dealt with as a national state but it will be extremely difficult to deal with them if they move towards radicalism. He also noted that the United State’s economic dependence on China will have an affect not only in America but also abroad. Perhaps his most compelling point was that we are moving towards an age of foreign policy which is based upon “compatible interest” rather than that of the older world ideal of nations acting from the motivation of national or domestic interest. His point is that that world is now intertwined in such a way that matters of national security and foreign policy are inextricably linked to the actions of other nations and will also determine the actions of the United States.

In perhaps his most valuable piece of insight Kissinger noted what he believed to be the mark of a true statesman. He remarked that to be a great statesman one must have solid grasp of history and use his knowledge to interpret events not in a moment by moment basis but on one that utilizes conceptual understanding of experiences and events. Kissinger lamented concerning the internet age and education that, “What we have gained in information, we have lost in knowledge.” Watching this powerful man convey his ideas candidly and with grace proved that he was and still is an exemplary pillar of the mark of a true proponent of freedom and democracy. Only time will tell if we take his insights to heart and create a safer more constructive society for posterity.

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(Reprinted from a college newspaper article containing my thoughts concerning my attendance of an open forum with Henry Kissinger and Paul O'Neil)

Life Without Limits: Surrogates Attempts to Define the Meaning of Life

2009-11-25T22:19:00.000-05:00

Imagine a world where you never get old. A world where the blind can see and the crippled can walk. A world of eternal youth and beauty. This is the world of Surrogates.

As I considered the concept of the new film from Miramax Pictures, I was skeptical as to the uniqueness or the impact of yet another dystopian film. Most movies of this kind tend to center around the same age old story of man vs. machine and our struggle to defeat a machine run society. Yet this film spins this story line and delivers an action packed adventure in the future world of Surrogates.

The film which runs approximately 90 minutes, stars Bruce Willis, Radha Mitchell and Rosamund Pike as they are caught up in a world of futuristic robots and government corruption. Director Jonathan Mostow tackles the philosophical concept of living vicariously. In essence, how do we define our lives? If we live through robotic counterparts, seeing and feeling only through virtual lenses are we truly living?

This is an interesting concept because this translates into many real world issues. Current political debates surrounding stem cell research, abortion, and Euthanasia all deal with the same questions. Life must be defined in our society because it translates into how we view so much around us.

The case has always been made that modern conveniences are detrimental to productive growth and the quality of life of individuals in society. Machines and technology dominate our culture. Americans sacrifice leisure time outdoors for video games and television which creates a sedentary populous. Surrogates portrays the decline of the individuals who simply allow machines to live out their lives.

However, Surrogates doesn’t simply present the issues and deliver a storyline. This movie takes a conscious approach to answering the moral questions behind the themes of the film. In fact, a dichotomy is set up between those who wish to keep Surrogate life a reality and those who wish to break down the façade of surrogate living.
Mostow has purposely placed a character in the movie named the Prophet, a leader of a separatist human coalition which stands against the use of surrogates. The prophet stands as the voice which espouses the evils of production and technology. It was interesting to notice the obvious philosophical agenda that this movie set as its undertone. The question remains that even if technology allows us to use our time unwisely or if people have a tendency to abuse technology it doesn’t mean that we should choose to live in the dark ages or decry technology continuously.

In many ways technology has aided culture and robots are a part of our lives already. People with injuries can be kept alive by life support systems and robotic prosthetic limbs can bring back for those less fortunate, a quality of life we take for granted. Technology isn’t the enemy the enemy lies within us.

What many people are afraid to do is to simply look to the root of the problem and truly deal with the problem of evil in society. It’s the abuse of the tools around us which create impediments to society. Society is aided by technology and it is our responsibility to use it wisely. When we take what is around us to better the lives of others we are using those tools in the right way.

Ultimately Surrogates, was unfulfilling because it lacked the time and depth to fully deal with these philosophical questions. Although the plot was action packed it seemed a bit dated and Bruce Willis has been through better days. I would rate this movie 3 out of 5 stars. It’s worth a watch but isn’t a must see blockbuster.

The Language of the Founders: How the Bible shaped our Nation

2009-11-25T22:11:00.000-05:00

It has long been believed that our nation was founded upon Christian principles and that the founders drew much of their inspiration from Christian beliefs and a deeply ingrained Christian culture. Is this fact or fiction? Did the founders consider Christianity important for constructing a government or did they rely only on enlightenment philosophy as the basis for building America as we know it?

As a professor of justice, law and society at American University, Dr. Dreisbach has written extensively on this subject providing insight into an important aspect of the American miracle at Philadelphia. His work focuses around the issue of separation of church and state and the biblical foundations of America. Dr. Daniel Dreisbach discussed these and many other interesting questions in his lecture here at Grove City College which concerned the place of the Bible in the founding of our nation.

His lecture focused around several main points. Dr. Dreisbach noted that we must look to the Bible and how it was used in the speeches and in the writings of the American founders to fully understand their approach in creating this nation. He noted that the founders were scholars of the Bible and as such they used their knowledge to effectively communicate. This meant they studied scripture and incorporated it into their political writings as a tool to speak to the common man.

In the late 1700s, the Bible was the most commonly owned book by the average colonial family. People knew and could relate to biblical imagery in common speech. The founders knew this was important and wrote and spoke in such a way as to influence the citizenry and rally them around the flag of freedom. In fact, Dr. Dreisbach related that historian Donald Lutz cites the Bible as the most quoted book among all of the founding documents and writings. Lutz writes that the Apostle Paul is cited as much as William Blackstone in founding literature. It is not surprising then to realize that the Bible played an important role in the vision of the founders and their achievement of freedom in America.

Men such as Patrick Henry in his famous speech before the Virginia House of Burgesses used biblical language to inspire hearers and galvanize a political movement of revolution against Great Britain. Others like Thomas Paine found the Bible to be a significant pedestal to rest philosophical ideas upon as they sought for affirmation from the populous. Even nominal Christians, much like Benjamin Franklin, invoked the name of God and called for a moment of silent prayer as they met to create a new nation.

In fact, Dr. Dreisbach noted that the founders lived in a predominantly Christian society in which people put trust in and could relate to Biblical principles. This meant that the founders’ rhetoric was bolstered by Christian language allowing the average citizen to understand and relate to the founder’s message. The founders believed that the Bible presented a basis for law, religion, and social structure which they attempted to incorporate into their government constitution.

However, this tradition of using Christian metaphorical symbols and imagery as powerful motifs of communication did not end with the era of the founders. Many future presidents would continue to draw upon the American tradition of alliteration but one stands alone as a master of this form of powerful rhetoric. Abraham Lincoln in his Gettysburg address used numerous biblical references much as Patrick Henry did almost 100 years earlier. Lincoln invoked the Biblical ideal of a house divided against itself could not stand. This would resonate with the citizens of America and place an important milestone in the destructive national conflict known as the American Civil War.

Ultimately what we must understand in the founders’ use of Christian motifs, language in their writing, and speeches is that they drew heavily upon the ideal that the Bible provided an understanding of providential wisdom into the affairs of men and nations. They believed that God was with them as they brought forth this new nation along with a new birth of freedom. We as citizens today would do well to remember the roots of our national pride and continue to cultivate Christian language and principles into our view of culture and society.

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(Reprinted from an article which was a review of Dr. Dreisbach's lecture at Grove City College)

Exit Strategy

2009-11-25T21:59:00.000-05:00

On Thursday September 24, all eyes will turn to Pittsburgh, as international leaders descend on the city of bridges to discuss today’s most pressing, political, economic, and social issues. President Obama chose the city of Pittsburgh as the new host city for the G20 Summit. The President has championed the city as a remarkable example of economic stability and recovery in the face of a worldwide recession. The President hopes that choosing this revitalized venue will assuage the fears of many in the international community.

“At next week’s G-20 summit, we’ll discuss some of the steps that are required to safeguard our global financial system and close gaps in regulation around the world – gaps that permitted the kinds of reckless risk-taking and irresponsibility that led to the crisis,” Obama said.1

The President stressed the urgency of the summit in his weekly radio address and highlighted key aspects of what the Summit leaders will discuss. World leaders will attempt to find an effective strategy for progress in the future.

The G20 summit is a gathering of leaders of nations qualified as the 20 most economically influential nations in the world. These include: the United States, China, Russia and Mexico to name a few. Leaders will meet to discuss numerous issues including: global economics, international relations, and the current worldwide recession. These leaders hope to forge alliances and gain common ground with other leaders as they strive to create a more unified global community. Speakers will include, renowned American historian and political scientist Howard Zinn, Anna Pinto, the leader of CORE (Center for Organization, Research, Education) and Benedicto Martínez Orozco, leader of FAT (Frente Autentico del Trabajo) which is currently one of the only independent labor federations in Mexico.

In order to ensure that the summit is guaranteed a safe and constructive environment, city officials have set up specialized traffic patterns while creating a stable environment for the city to absorb the mass media which will descend on Pittsburgh. Police and Fire officials will be on the lookout for terrorism and for disruptive behavior throughout the duration of the summit. The real danger could come from the numbers of protestors which will accompany the meeting of major world leaders.

In April 2009, the summit met in London where protestors raised their voices to question the actions of the economic leaders of the world, attempting to influence the decisions of the G20 summit. Although for the most part protesting was benign and civil, city officials will be ready for any type of disturbance which these individuals could cause. More importantly these protestors raised important questions and issues concerning global economic affairs.

How do we deal with this global economic recession and bolster international economies? This will be the main question on the table for the summit this week. Changsoon Kwon, a Grove City finance major, will be attending the summit while working for the Korean embassy. While growing up in South Korea near the capital of Seoul, Kwon gained firsthand knowledge about Asian markets and the global economic community. Kwon has a deep seated interest in pursuing international relations in the future and expressed that he would like to see world leaders find an effective exit strategy to the current global recession.

Asian markets have suffered because of the financial recession in many western countries. The Asian car markets and many other industries rely on western consumers to bolster their economies. Kwon pointed out that at the outset of the financial downturn in American markets, President Bush was unwilling to sign a free trade agreement between the U.S. and South Korea. The justification was that it was necessary to protect U.S. car markets. Kwon posited that he would like to see a free trade agreement between the United States and Korea so that these two nations would bolster their relations while benefiting off of eachother’s markets.

As these leaders search for answers, several factors loom large over the summit. A seasonally unadjusted unemployment rate of 9.6% in America is a glaring number. Many Americans struggle to find jobs, as living costs are increasing. Even though gas prices are relatively low they are rising and are higher than in previous months. Further, the U.S. Dollar has reached a new low this past Wednesday, as the Euro rose to $1.4722 against the dollar which is priced at $1.4656.

The G20 summit this week will place an important marker in the rocky economic road charted over the past several months. If world leaders are able to find an effective exit strategy which benefits international economies, citizens of the world will gain heart and perhaps look to a brighter economic future. It is important to finally find our way out of the dark woods of recession and create a stable global economy for the future.

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1. Source: Gerstein, Josh With G-20 coming, Obama touts reform, 9/20/09, www. Politico.com, http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0909/27333.html

Guantanamo Bay Prison Controversy

2009-11-25T21:33:00.000-05:00

Amid growing conflict in the Middle East, President Obama has made a controversial decision to reinstate military tribunals at Guantanamo Bay prison. This decision comes after the president was elected on campaign promises to close Guantanamo bay and formally suspended the tribunal system. In light of numerous controversies over the methods of trying suspected terrorists, the Administration has promised that methods of ‘torture’ will not be allowed and that the tribunals will be as fair-minded as possible. The president wrote in a formal Whitehouse statement, "This is the best way to protect our country while upholding our deeply held values."

In 2001, the Bush Administration began conducting military tribunals at Guantanamo Bay prison, in Cuba. Since 2006, military commissions were set up so that detainees could be tried outside of the regulation of military or civilian courts. The justification was that this was a necessary means to protect Americans at home and abroad. This outraged many citizens and human rights organizations resulting in many probes and exposes to unveil the interrogation and tribunal practices. As light began to shine on the tribunal method, many Americans faced a tough decision. Can we detain and suspend the rights of prisoners in order to achieve freedom from terror?

Most of the individuals who find themselves in Guantanamo Bay are captured enemy soldiers, suspected terrorists and those individuals deemed too dangerous for release but which there is little evidence to hold them. In her article which appeared in The Middle East review, From Nuremberg to Guantánamo: International Law and American Power Politics, Lisa Hajjar writes,

“The laws criminalizing these practices encode normative principles that reflect a fairly high level of international consensus, and their jurisdiction is international, which means not only that these practices are illegal everywhere, but also that everyone-not just victims-has an interest in their enforcement.”1

All of these individuals must be tried for crimes and their sentences or subsequent release, administered by a court of law. The Obama administration has made it clear that now, U.S. courts, will oversee the tribunals that will take place in Guantanamo Bay until the prison is formally shut down. This will ensure that these detainees receive a fair trial and will receive justice for their actions.

The crux of the issue is the concept of the administration of justice, more importantly, how to achieve justice while maintaining the freedoms of Americans and the rights of detainees. Even though many of the detainees at Guantanamo Bay may indeed be terrorists a tribunal system must ensure a fair trial and protection of human rights. This is a key issue because it sets precedent for the future and could have an effect on how justice will be meted out not only to enemy combatants but possibly to U.S. citizens. The Obama administration has worked hard to revise the rules and regulations of the Guantanamo Bay system, promising a more constructive trial system.

Since most of the detainees at Guantanamo Bay are captured on the battlefield, pundits have pointed out the contradiction to U.S. and international law in that many of these combatants are held with little evidence against them. This is a clear violation of the western law concept of Habeas Corpus. This is simply the ideal that to hold someone in jail there must be legitimate or evidential reason to hold them. In essence, an individual can’t simply be held for any reason whatsoever. This however, commonly refers to U.S. citizens or to uniformed enemy combatants. Thus the quandary many politicians and military elites have come to is to whether treat these suspected terrorists as regular civilians or as soldiers because they are militants but wear no uniforms.

Although many Americans may see the President’s actions as beneficial and necessary, the result remains to be seen of the effectiveness of his reforms. Since the President suspended the tribunals in early May, this halted the trials of 9/11 mastermind Khalid Sheik Mohammed and Omar Khadr, a Canadian national accused of killing a U.S. soldier in Afghanistan. This new tribunal system must ensure that these men receive justice. If these men are freed or if their sentences are not seen as harsh enough, American soldiers here and abroad may begin to lose heart in a time when more soldiers are dying on the battlefield than since the start of the war on terror. To maintain a feeling of solidarity, strength and ease, Americans must be ensured that they are kept safe from another tragedy much like 9/11.

Reinstatement of the tribunal system has been met with mixed emotions at home and abroad. Many relatives of 9/11 victims have maintained that they want Guantanamo Bay to remain open because it provides a safe and secure place to hold suspected terrorists. Many human rights organizations maintain that the move is welcome because it will end abuse. Yet, numerous groups stress that they fear the camp will take too long to close down and that tribunals of some sort will remain and continue after the camps’ closure. We as Americans will indeed revisit this issue in the future as we continue to struggle with how to properly deal with suspected terrorists at home and abroad.

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1 Title: From Nuremberg to Guantánamo: International Law and American Power Politics
Author(s): Lisa Hajjar
Source: Middle East Report, No. 229 (Winter, 2003), pp. 8-15
Publisher(s): Middle East Research and Information Project Stable URL: http://www.jstor.org/stable/1559387

Of Mice and Men

2008-04-07T12:41:00.000-04:00

Lennie once said....
"But not us! An' why? Because....because I got you to look after me, and you got me to look after you, and that's why."

The American dream. It is this ideal which has for many centuries guided and propelled individuals toward greater heights of accomplishment and production. It was this ideal that built the great cities of our time. It was this ideal that laid the tracks of the great transcontinental railroads. It was this ideal that produced invention and art.

Yet, in the early thirties for many, this dream, this ideal, had faded into the crude struggle for survival. No longer did man set his sights on what he could achieve today, tomorrow, next year, but on what he could consume for his next meal. Many of us have seen pictures of the bread lines existent in so many towns and cities. We have seen the faces of day laborers and the signature abandoned caboose, the home of many tramps and wanderers.

It is against this backdrop of struggle and hardship that John Steinbeck chose to recount his bitter tale, Of Mice and Men. When we come upon the two protagonists of the story, we find them journeying on a dusty highway on a quest for a new job and a new meal. On their faces we can see written the lines of pain and fortitude; in their voices the strain of existence. Their strides mimic those of men who carry a great weight, not on their shoulders, but in their hearts. Depression has struck America, both in the fields and in the minds of men.

Yet Steinbeck’s tale does not simply relate the mere economic hardships of Lennie and George, his story deals with deep emotional and intellectual facets of human interaction. From the outset we see that Lennie loves soft furry things. He has been gifted with size and strength yet his mind is small and that of a child. He is incapable of controlling his passions. Throughout the novel a sense of the darwinistic principle ‘survival of the fittest’ is ever-present. In fact foreboding and impending doom pervades the novel. What we gain from reading this story is a true feeling for the helplessness of man in the midst of catastrophe and total depression.

George is Lennie’s protector but even he exhibits scorn for him. Once they journey to the farm where they will work, once again we see the principle at work. The son of the owner of the farm, Curley, shows contempt for and a willingness to brawl with everyone he meets. His actions are motivated simply by evil that lies within his heart. Steinbeck forgoes describing each character’s soul and rather through appearances and action he symbolizes each character with a part of the psyche of man. To fully understand Steinbeck’s motives one must first grasp his symbolism.

I must comment that I believe that Steinbeck may have unintentionally stumbled upon symbolism for 1930s America as a nation in both ideals and reality in his depiction of Lennie, George and other characters. Perhaps America is the large strong willed man both in economic capability and in the embodiment of the search for the American dream. Lennie exhibits great strength and capability, as the foreman of the farm, Slim, relates to George. Further, Lennie continually reminds himself and dreams of the day when he can live on his own farm and tend his own animals. Yet these two characteristics, his great strength and his simple mind, prevent him from achieving the very things for which he so desires.

The same could be applied to the state of the American economy and society in the 1930s. In the late 1880s and early part of the 1900s America resembled a magnificent giant in production and wealth. Much like Lennie, we could lift more bags of grain than anyone else around the world. Our cities burgeoned; our populous was full of life and hope. Much like Lennie each man yearned for his own piece of happiness with the ability to grasp and cling to prosperity. This truth was self evident in the characterization of the 1880s-90s as the gilded age.

Yet as we focused on production and invention we dimmed our intellectual pursuits and allowed ourselves to become entangled with destructive social theory and eventually what we held so dear was our undoing. Carl Marx’s theories of collectivism and Darwin’s theories of evolution stunted and retarded our society. We, much like Lennie in strength and in his obsession with the American dream, were blinded to the reality of our state. As George relates to Candy, an old farmhand, near the end of the book, everything he had told Lennie was a lie. There never was a real chance of obtaining what they desired.

~ George said softly, “—I think I knowed from the very first.
I think I knowed we never do her (the farm and animals). He usta like hearing
about her so much I got to thinking maybe we would.”

Could this be veiled symbolism for the political propaganda of the late twenties and 30s? It seems to eerily recall many speeches by Hoover, “A chicken in every pot and a car in every garage.” F.D.R. furthered this collectivist ideal in his two terms as President, in depression era America as well. This mentality and propaganda mimics that in Of Mice and Men and even if Steinbeck did not pen this book with these truths in mind the symbolism is there none the less.
I believe there is fundamental truth to be grasped in this analysis of Steinbeck’s novel. Not only should we gain valuable moral and social lessons from the interaction of the characters but we should see that there is one pillar of a successful civilization missing from his book. It is this pillar upon which all others rest because without it we are never more than a few generations away from this type of intellectual, moral, and economic depression.

What is absent from the lives of Steinbeck’s characters is Christian religion; even religion of any sort. Although, God’s name is used profusely in a profane manner, he is never invoked to ease the suffering of these men. It is this type of world that Steinbeck vividly portrays. It is only in this type of world that these events could take place and find no resolution.

Perhaps a forgotten part of the novel is Lennie’s conversation with Crooks, the African American Stable buck. Lennie is too simple to exhibit any animosity toward Crooks. However, Crooks has a dislike for whites, as they do for him. Crooks also tortures Lennie’s simple mind, posing to him questions for which Lennie has no answers. Once again Steinbeck portrays the survival of the fittest mentality. It doesn’t matter what color the skin of the characters is. One man can torture and destroy another if the other is weak. This chain of strength and weakness is a major theme throughout the book.

Only in a world where Christianity is absent are men inclined to live and act this way. It is Christianity that will and does finally end racism and hatred of mankind. It is only through free thinking and education, from a biblical standpoint, that the characters of Mice and Men can be freed from their depression. Likewise, this was a nationwide epidemic that plagued our nation in the 1930s. As men began to forget God, our nation sank deeper into depression. As men relied on the state and not on the Bible for their sustenance, men became slaves to the state instead of free men in Christ.

If we take these ideals to heart today, we may find the answer to the many political and economic questions we seek answers for. We must first understand that true freedom can never exist outside of a Christian context. A society cannot wish to reap the benefits of the effects of a certain lifestyle without acknowledging what actions cause that lifestyle to be a reality. Without a firmly rooted Christian paradigm for the governance of every area of our lives man will be a slave both in body and in mind. This is what Marxism and collectivism hopes to attain: the equality and subjection of all under a totalitarian state.

Our founders had a different idea. They believed that natural rights came from a creator and that man should be free because he was created free. Freedom attained through a Christian understanding of nature and principles. This is why the Declaration posits their ideals that:

“all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain
unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of
happiness. That to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men,
deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed.”

For Steinbeck and 1930s America, these ideals had been mostly abandoned or forgotten. For our nation today we can expect nothing else than a repeat of these events if we pursue our modern course. If we continue to disregard religion and shun Christianity our society will fall.

The answer? The answer to the problem before us is simple. Those of us who realize what must be done must act. We must first evangelize in the full entirety of the Gospel. Men must first understand their sin and then we must present to them a plan of action for restoration of society. No longer can we become part of the old system. The time will come when that old structure will be beyond saving. Society must be reformed from within. We must seek to create a new idea, a new civilization. Only then can we begin to once again enjoy freedom in this country.

Night

2008-03-20T11:24:00.000-04:00

Visions from Elie Wiesel...

"From the depths of the mirror, a corpse gazed back at me. The look in his eyes,
as they stared into mine, has never left me." ~ Elie Wiesel

Most citizens of the world have heard of the Holocaust. Most have heard of the atrocities committed in places like Auschwitz and Buchenwald. Most of us have a peripheral understanding that these events were atrocious and should be stopped if possible from reoccurring today.

However, I believe that few of us truly understand the actual horrors, the pure evil which reared its head during the years of NAZI oppression in Europe. Elie Wiesel in his powerful recounting of the Holocaust, Night, gives us a window. He has pulled back the shroud ever so slightly for us to view in all its grotesque horror what he witnessed during his internment at several concentration camps.

What struck me while I began to read through his book was the impending sense of danger which many of the Jewish people ignored, even as the war raged and the furnaces belched forth the smell of flesh, the smell of death. In fact, even as a young child he urged his father to leave Romania and take a ship to Israel. His father refused stating that he was too old and that the journey would be too hazardous. Little did he know of the gruesome hardships which awaited him on his many journeys from camp to camp.

This opening portion of the book struck a chord within me. At times Elie’s words ring true today. Just as he proclaimed to those whom he could the impending dangers which awaited them so we, those of us who believe our country is headed toward a precipice, proclaim the need for revival and reformation. The great Economist, F.A. Hayek, devoted an entire tome to this very subject. He posited in The Road to Serfdom, that if the Western cultures continued in their divergence from the founding principles of America (freedom, equality and the rule of Law), we would inevitably destroy ourselves, sinking into the same type of fascism not unlike Nazi Germany. It is the complacency of people, who accept at every turn, a little bit more government control, and a little more regulation of freedom that will bring about catastrophic events once again.

Wiesel notes these points in his book as well. Several times the Jews are oppressed on an ever increasing scale. Yet they have numerous opportunities to escape, to put up a fight, to try and change their fate. However, they are content to live in their own secluded society unaware of the growing danger. Until time has run out and they are pressed out into the streets, packed into vans or made to march to their new home, hell on earth.

Perhaps, the most frightening description Wiesel recounted was the first train ride to Auschwitz and their disembarkation. While on the way, Wiesel describes one lady who has seemingly lost her mind and rants and screams that she can see flames and furnaces all around her. Heat and death. Yet many of the Jews in the train car are unwilling to believe her. So close to death they still cannot believe. Yet as the train pulls into Auschwitz, under cover of night, a stench begins to fill the air. And through the cracks in the car they can see a red glow.

This was a moving segment for me. As the doors of the car open, several tall smokestacks rise into the night, billowing death. The crematories are hard at work. Jews are herded into ditches whereupon they are burned alive. Men, women, and children. Perhaps the scariest image he described was the sight and sound of a truckload of children and babies, as they were brought to the edge of a furnace ditch, and without a thought, unconsciously unloaded, amid screams, body after body, child after child, as the smoke rose ever from the great furnace of death. Truly a moving vision.

Reading through Wiesel’s account of his experiences certainly changed my life. At times, remaining an advocate for freemarket thought and freedom, we can begin to slip into an ethereal world of theory and ideas. Yet these accounts give a face to the pure evil which can drive a socialist country, a fascist mentality. It is this very kind of atrocity which the founding founders sought through the American system of government to avert. The philosophy of freedom and the rule of law enshrined in our founding documents and in the Bible can and must be our only defense against this type of blind hate and disregard for life.

While reading this book, I was drawn to the current events surrounding Senator Obama and his Pastor Rev. Jeremiah Wright. Most would agree that the kind of rhetoric which Rev. Wright uses could be inflammatory and hate filled. Yet, I can understand where his hatred could spring from. As I am from a partly Jewish heritage, I have a deep seated connection to the events which occurred in Europe during WWII. It would be very easy for someone like me to hold onto hate; to feel a sense of anger and resentment toward the perpetrators of these crimes and their descendants. Certainly, the crimes committed against African Americans in this country could be seen as atrocities.

But, I believe that Rev. Wright misses the point and the freeing factor in the freedom philosophy and in the Gospel. Jesus proclaimed to us that following him would entail sacrifice and death. Bad things would happen to good people. Yet this was never cause on his part, nor should it be on our part for revenge or hate. The story of Cory Tenbaum and her eventual forgiveness of the German officer responsible for so much death and pain, should be our model.

I am not saying that we forget but that we forgive and move on. Many people groups have been singled out for racial discrimination. We should never focus on the past as a means of revenge. We cannot change the past and if we continue to live there we can never progress forward. Through Christ and the Bible we are given a way to move forward, forgive, and change our lives. Only through this type of reformation can we begin to prevent such atrocities from ever happening again. As Ronald Reagan said, “Freedom is a fragile thing and it is never more than one generation away from extinction.” If we keep these words in our minds at all times, we can find the courage and the reason to promote freedom, liberty and the gospel at every turn. Only in this way can we prevent further atrocities from occurring in our world.

I highly recommend this book to everyone who is interested in freedom and free markets. At times we need to understand what we are fighting for. We are fighting so that our families will be spared. Just like the early Christians this same type of fate could await us at any moment and the more we give in to the state the closer that day comes. Reading through this book will certainly change your outlook on politics, economics, and everyday life.

"Britney Laws"

2008-02-12T13:37:00.000-05:00

Well, unfortunately I am a day late on posting this week, but I shall try to make up for it with an intriguing and thoughtful blog post.

If you have glanced at all at the current events swirling around Hollywood these days, you will no doubt have seen footage of the many debacles of numerous pop starlets. It seems that the lives of these young girls provide an endless stream of media attention and coverage. In fact, in our media driven, voyeuristic culture, pictures and video of the latest escapades of these women has now become a multimillion dollar industry, intent on capturing every living moment of women like Britney Spears and Lindsay Lohan among many others.

Of course, blame cannot be placed solely on the ‘paparazzi’ for perpetuating the furor surrounding these women. If these girls simply refrained from the outrageous, photographers and columnists would have very little to cover. This type of media attention is nothing new. For decades, and really since the inception of the Hollywood culture, countless magazines and newspaper reporters have made livings, scrutinizing the everyday lives of individuals involved in movies and television. In the film The Aviator, Martin Scorsese portrayed this part of Hollywood realistically and to the extent of what effect it can have on the lives of media icons. No doubt, there is a negative effect upon the lives of those who are at times exploited by the media. Who in America, once they are past the age of infancy does not recognize Marilyn Monroe or Judy Garland, two starlets who came to bitter ends? In fact, many blame the death of Princess Diana on the paparazzi.

But be that as it may, is there a simple line of decency which should exist in the news world, one which the average citizen, no matter how rich or famous, is entitled? Let’s face it, would we appreciate being hounded by numerous cameras and reporters as we made our way to Starbucks for a coffee? I think not. Yet it seems that, from a free market standpoint that both the photographers and the starlet are deserving of individual freedom and liberty. But what exactly does that mean? Does everyone have the right to snap a photo or shoot a movie of everyone else’s lives?

Under the Constitution of the United States of America the first amendment affords every citizen the right to free speech and the freedom of the press. Today this means we have a right to say or write anything we very well please. However, historically this was not how the public interpreted the first amendment. In fact, in many states, libel and slander laws existed with the ideal in mind of protection of individuals from printed and spoken defamation. Thus only in recent days, with the emergence of special interest groups, have the restraints on speech and print been lifted. I cannot remember when, in recent times, that someone actually brought a slander or libel suit, let alone actually won a suit of this nature.

In our objectivist and pluralistic culture, it seems that people have the freedom to do whatever pleases them. In fact, many of the escapades of the starlets like Britney and Lindsay would have been punishable by jail time or worse in historical times. Exposing yourself in public or driving recklessly should be punished and harshly enough so that people are hesitant to repeat an offence. But it appears for the most part that those endowed with large fortunes are afforded a different standard than the rest of the nation. At most, a judge will order a hopeless media figure a set time in ‘rehab’ to work out their ‘mental problems’. If we simply saw these people for what they are, spoiled brats, it would be very easy to deal with them.

Why do they deserve our sympathy when they have brought this type of lifestyle upon themselves by constantly seeking media attention and stardom? People like Britney and Lindsay are creations of the media. Lacking real talent they have feasted upon a gullible public and now those who have created them seek to destroy them. Such is the way of the world. However, I am less concerned with how the media treats these women than how their treatment could affect us.

While watching my favorite cable news show, The O’Reilly Factor, a segment which intrigued me concerned lawmakers who have proposed what they call ‘Britney Laws’. These laws would require paparazzi and reporters to remain at least 20 yards behind a public figure before taking a shot. The theory behind the laws is to protect these public figures from prying and most times annoying photogs and reporters. Who wouldn’t want protection in this way? I have seen some of the footage of the lengths that photo hounds go to ‘get a shot’. At first glance, the laws seem to address a real problem and one which could cause annoyance or harm to the one photographed.

Now although these laws seem well intentioned, let us consider the ramifications and the implications of such legislation. If the government can regulate how the public can use their cameras, what would stop them from simply barring us from using them at all? Anyone who has read 1984 by George Orwell knows that this is a primary tactic of Big Brother to prevent people from knowing what is happening in the outside world. If the government can control what we are able to view, they can control our lives. They have the ability to project upon us only what they wish us to see.

This type of legislation not only infringes upon our first amendment rights but also is a trademark of fascism. We cannot have in our nation laws which simply benefit one class, whether rich or poor. In the end they will have a detrimental effect upon all citizens. Whenever we cede rights to the government in exchange for proposed ‘protection’ we lose liberty. We should never want the government to act as a parent protecting us from the hardships of life. If you choose to be a media icon, know that paparazzi will follow you.

Now of course, as I alluded to earlier, there are laws still in place in some states to protect individuals from a monstrous media. If a newspaper or paparazzi breaks a law while reporting on the life of a starlet then they should be brought to account. But if a young Hollywood girl goes out and gets drunk, takes her clothes off, then drives away at high speed, crashing into a guardrail and a paparazzi happens to catch it all on camera, they have the opportunity to print whatever they please. Morality or sympathy could play on their conscience but it is not the government’s role to decide what a reporter should report. The simple answer to avoid this type of publicity is to refrain from this lifestyle. Everyone wakes up everyday with the choice to act stupidly or not. It is not ours or the reporting industries fault that these girls continually make the wrong choices.

Of course, in the free market and one basic law of economics is supply and demand. Remember if there was no market for this type of coverage, if newspapers did not offer millions for a photo of a certain individual, would the paparazzi act this way. We, the public, are to blame as well, if we feel sympathetic toward the plights of these girls. We have made them the way they are. Our glorification of their talents has elevated them to positions which they don’t deserve. For whom do the newspapers and paparazzi go to great lengths to get these pictures?

If we gather anything from these events we must understand that in the great scheme of all things there are certain causes and effects for every action. For starlets like Britney and Lindsay, they must know that their actions have perpetuated an endless stream media attention. But for the Christian, we must know that whenever a society begins to degenerate everyone will suffer. If we remember anything from the scriptures know that that the punishment for sin is not always immediate. In fact, more sin and eventual slavery is more often the punishment. Can we not see these types of events unfolding before our very eyes? As these starlets continue their downward spirals, with little reproach from the Church can we not expect that God will not punish our nation with slavery? That is exactly what these laws are designed to do.

If we as Christians do not decry the actions of these women and refrain from glorifying a culture which perpetuates their glorification how can we expect God to bless our nation. The answer to such behavior in a society is not government regulation. The answer lies in revival of the land toward Christianity. No matter what society we strive for without morality and religion no structure will remain intact. Even a free market society unfounded upon Christian principles will stand for long. Remember, that if the Lord does not build the house, the workers labor in vain.

The New York Football Giants are Super Bowl Champions!

2008-02-04T13:25:00.000-05:00

I usually refrain from writing a whole post on something which some people may not feel warrants a deep intellectual excursion. However, I had to write a post concerning the victorious New York Giants in Super Bowl XLII. As I began to ponder the victory and the game I had just watched, I believe that there are actually many philosophical truths to be found even in a major sporting event.

Consider the build up and the media attention surrounding this game. The Giants were faced with literally a giant challenge. The New England Patriots had reached the Super Bowl for the fourth time in seven years, winning in each of their past three trips. But that was history. They came into this game undefeated all season, one victory shy of perfection, breaking numerous records for scoring along the way. One win and they would solidify their mark in history as the only other team besides the 1972 Dolphins to finish a season undefeated.

But it was not to be. As I watched the game, I couldn’t help but think to myself that perhaps God would not allow this team to attain perfection. After all, in today's media culture would not these men, especially Tom Brady (the New England Quarterback), have been considered 'gods'. We know from scripture that God does not share his glory. And perhaps this saga of David and Goliath was part of God's ultimate plan to show the human race that we are but mortals. No man is perfect or can attain perfection except spiritually through the grace imparted to us by our belief in the divine atonement of Jesus Christ accomplished on the cross. And that's exactly what David Tyree, the New York Giants receiver, who came down with what may be considered one of the greatest Super Bowl catches of all time attributed his success. In his postgame interview Tyree did not refrain from profusely thanking God for the victory and unashamedly saying how his faith and belief in God plays such a major part in his life. It is this type of witness which we should have foremost in our minds when we are showered in glory. We should always react by giving all the glory back to God, as Tyree did.

What I found most unbelievable about this game was the David and Goliath aspect portrayed well by the media. In fact not one of the pregame announcers predicted a Giants victory. As Christians, this is our stance and the way the world views our religion and our ways of life. They do not believe or have faith that we have truth on our side. Yet we know that with the Lord’s help and power we can accomplish anything that we have faith we can complete. In fact, ultimately God’s divine purposes will be worked out for ultimate good in society. We factor into this plan as well. Never should we doubt our cause or our ability to promote truth in the world. We should never look for massive numbers or great results for our causes. It is the one person who is reached by our message that constitutes a victory.

We must always remember this, especially from a political and my favorite, an economic angle. At times we may feel that our message has no weight in the world. No one seems to care or understand the principles we stand for. Yet our fight is not in vain. As the Giants proved, with God’s help anything is possible. With his help and power we can accomplish wondrous deeds in history. We need only wait for his time and to keep pursuing the right path in our lives. Although we may feel the weight of the world pressing in on our shoulders and the necessity to spread the word of God very great, if we trust in God he can bear us up and give us the opportunities we seek.

I believe that whenever we view events in history or the present there are many truths to be understood an gained. Our God is a God of order and I believe that he always leaves deeper meanings for us to uncover in all aspects of creation. I believe there are probably numerous ones I have not seen in this extraordinary football game, but these are the ones which stuck out the most to me. Remember, that if you look below the surface many wonders may await you. Perhaps now you will never look at football the same. I know I never will.

The Industrial Revolution and Free Trade

2008-01-28T11:29:00.000-05:00

I have finally found a way to ameliorate the crisis so detrimental to the life of a blog poster. Simply put, it is quite difficult to write when your fingers are frozen. Thus I have taken a much needed vacation to the sunny shore of southern Florida.

As I sit here, in a comparative paradise, basking in the sunshine of another tropical day, I remember all of my faithful readers, who should all experience, at least once in their life, the joys of a tropical excursion. Of course, I wouldn’t recommend an expedition into the interiors of Cambodia, but for all intents and purposes, a couple of days on a pool deck (or beach) should be sufficient. Here in paradise, is it actually possible to forget the great economic and social issues which are still so inherent in our lives? Well almost.

The Industrial Revolution and Free Trade

After finishing Richard Pipes masterful study of the inseparable connection of private property and freedom, I picked up this interesting collection of essays. As the title suggests free trade and progress are in some way connected as well. Of course this is true. Yet while reading through each of the essays, I was surprised by not only how many times free trade has been restricted in history but the numerous ways into which the outworking of the policies of government and the producer effect seemingly unconnected occurrences.

However, let me first deal with the main thesis and the thread which connects all of the essays in this fine little work. The main concept dealt with is free trade. Without free trade you will never have unbounded progress or freedom. In fact we owe much of the innovation of our society today, and those around the world, to the open trade of countries; the free exchange of ideas and goods. A good snapshot of this ideal could be seen in the economy of Soviet Russia and the U.S. For many years the Soviets cut themselves off from the west. Now their economy and their people are many years behind the U.S both economically and socially.

Yet the concept of free trade and unrestricted exchange is a relatively new ideal in the history of the world. In fact up until the early 1800s most of the world clung to the economic principles of protectionism and mercantilism. Most of the European states, most notably England, held to long held beliefs that internal producers must be protected against the wiles of competing producers in other nations. This book provides an interesting and informative account of the early struggles of British Prime Minister William Peel and his battles with protectionists and fee trade producers in England. Much of his life was devoted to swaying the public opinion and that of Parliament toward an open border and an open market mindset.

A central pillar of free market economics is of course free trade. The theory behind this belief is that unrestricted trade provides competition among producers and in turn creates a beneficial exchange of products which people value even if they were created within the borders of another nation. It is competition which creates progress. In an environment which fosters among producers the necessity for a constant edge, new ideas and more efficient methods of production follow. In turn the public benefits from the consumption of cutting edge products and methods of production.

Just consider that new car sitting in your driveway. Most folks today do or at some time have owned a foreign made car. Without free trade we wouldn’t have the access to buy these cars. In fact, most people will tell you that foreign made cars are cheaper and more reliable than an American made car. Without free trade Americans would be unable to have efficient cars which cost less.

“Oh no!” some will say, because people are buying these cheap cars from abroad American automakers will go out of business, dealing a hard blow to the economy and putting many Americans out of work. To this I answer, “True but not.” Although through free trade an initial loss of American jobs may be visible, in the long run there exist in reality many added benefits through free trade. Consider the vast amounts of dollars people have to spare after buying a cheap efficient automobile. All that capital can either be saved or spent to benefit others in the economy. Jobs can be created in other industries to offset the losses in the auto field. Economics must never be considered in terms of a zero sum gain. Just because jobs are lost in one area doesn’t mean they weren’t created in another. In fact through free trade, efficient organizations arise, which promote freedom and progress of ideas and of life through a continual striving for greatness and excellence amongst competing firms.

However, these are not the only gains from free trade. In a more practical and seemingly unconnected way free trade has actually benefited individuals and the environment in ways we might never have imagined. As the book wades its way through early ideas concerning free trade we finally find the benefits of industrial progress in the most unlikely of places.

One of the essays which I found fascinating concerned the lives of early American women and homemakers. Through free trade, economic competition and progress, women have benefited immensely as their jobs and roles in the world have evolved and changed dramatically. Up until recently women slaved numerous hours to provide the simple necessities of life of which we are so accustomed to today. Just think of how many hours are saved by the use of machines and appliances which aid the mother and the woman in her everyday life. Without free trade and industrial progress women would still have to spend hours baking and cleaning their homes. And of course, the careers of women as teachers and of learners in the college and academic atmosphere would be drastically different. Without the opportunity to save time and effort in the home, women would never have had these opportunities. Most women attribute their status as motivated and liberated individuals to a vast movement of likeminded individuals. I would argue more for industrial progress as a major factor in the elevation of women in the workplace and in the home.

Be that as it may. There are numerous other examples provided shwoing how gains from trade and progress have benefited our society. I would highly recommend this collection of essays to the individual searching for the answers to those who wish to ‘protect’ American jobs and the economy. In fact these types of ideals hurt the consumer and the economy in more ways than one. The vast boom of industry in this nation in the early 1900s was due to free trade and few government restrictions on production. If you have a further interest in these ideas pick up a copy of Ayn Rand’s, Atlas Shrugged. At least read through this neat little collection of essays. At most you will be informed and provoked to explore the ideas further.

Movie Review: Cloverfield

2008-01-21T11:44:00.000-05:00

Well, it's Monday again. As I sit and write, I hark back to the old days when I would trudge through cold and wind and rain to the hallowed halls of the Foundation for Economic Education, clutching my 'fee bag', intent on advancing the cause of liberty in the world. Many times I would grip a warm coffee mug and ponder the day’s events, while writing a blog post with frozen fingers on an icy keyboard.

Alright, maybe it wasn't that bad. But sometimes I would wake up with a definite case of the Mondays. Now as I sit, warm and content, on my couch, I salute those who still advance freedom from a desk 9-5. Those brave souls deserve our honor. Oh forget it. Anyway, perhaps it's time for a movie review.

Cloverfield

Imagine if you could see what really happened on the streets of New York on 9/11. Imagine if you lived through a terror attack. Imagine if you could see the horror through the eyes of those who saw it all. Imagine: Cloverfield.

This revolutionary and groundbreaking movie from director J.J. Abrams takes filmmaking and storytelling to a new level and dimension. What characterizes and sets this movie apart from many of the monster-horror flicks out there is Abrams reliance on characters and an intimate connection with the heroes of the story rather than on special effects and blood and gore. In fact, the movie focuses less on the actual storyline than on the interaction of individuals thrown together in a whirlwind of catastrophic events. Abrams has decided to elevate this genre to a new level. By utilizing the 'first person' camera angles and home video feel, he has created a gripping and suspenseful storyline in which we are able to identify and relate on a personal level with the characters of the story. And Abrams does it all with a budget of less than 30 million and with a few no name actors. Quite a feat in today's celebrity driven culture.

But, perhaps this is where the genius of the film lies. The story itself takes a backseat for the most part as we focus more on the small segments of dialogue between characters. Ideals and actions become the center points of the film. Self sacrifice and survival become the driving factors of the characters. In essence the film touches you on a much deeper level than a simple monster movie would. When I left the theater, I was confused and awed. I tried to rationalize what I had seen. Yet, I believe there is an actual purpose to the story and although a clear message may be difficult to discern. With a little thought, nuggets may be grasped from the film’s intense plotlines.

While conversing with friends over the events of the film and meaning behind the story, one fellow posited a plausible explanation behind the film. In essence, Cloverfield is a love story at heart. All the events and characters are either incidental or mechanisms to bring the two main characters back together. In fact, it is the protagonists love for his fiancée that drives him to journey into the middle of the fray to save her life. In fact it could be posited that the monster itself is a mechanism to bring these two people back together. Although this explanation may be somewhat unfounded and hard to swallow, with a little effort this theory makes the whole film more enjoyable and puts many of the events into better focus. I believe that although incidental the writers may have envisioned this factor behind the story.

And perhaps, as Christians we can learn something from this explanation of life and events which occur around us. In fact, God uses people and events to achieve his ends. These events and humans which we interact with are not always beneficial and kindhearted. More often than not we run into relationships and are involved in events which are contrary to the designs which we have devised. In fact this is why we should always step back and consider is we are walking God’s path or ours. If we try to follow our road it more often than not leads to destruction. God may use tragedy in our lives to teach us and to show us his divine purposes.

Although I do not believe that the writers of Cloverfield intended this to be the message of the film, I believe that, as Christians, we must always try to process what we see and hear in light of the Bible and Christian principles. Thus as I ruminated on this movie, I believe this may be a possible explanation for a hard film to understand. In all, I would recommend this film to anyone. If not for its revolutionary cinematography, for its intense storyline and heart pounding plotline. Many lessons can be drawn from this film. At least you will feel contemplative at most you will feel compelled to seek God’s plan in the whirlwind of events which surround you every day.

Private Property: Essential for Liberty

2008-01-09T13:24:00.000-05:00

"The will of man is not shattered, but softened, bent and guided; men are
seldom forced to act but they are constantly restrained from acting: such a
power does not destroy, but it prevents existence; it does not tyrannize, but it
compresses, enervates, extinguishes, and stupefies a people, till each
nation is reduced to nothing better than a timid flock of industrious animals,
of which the government is the shepherd." ~ De Toqueville

Few books have quantified and analyzed the concept of personal freedoms throughout history as has this masterful worked penned by the brilliant economist and historian, Richard Pipes. His main thesis throughout the pages of this book contends that without the protection of private property rights in a society, citizens and the general populace can never be truly free. After completing his work, I was convinced that his depth of explanation and analysis proves beyond a reasonable doubt that there indeed exists a crucial link between the protection of the sacred right everyone holds to their property and the freedoms we seek to achieve in a democratic society.

Many times people shun economic works because of the apparent dullness of the many tomes of economic theory and of philosophy prominent in the Austrian economics field. Undoubtedly this is somewhat true. However, this book approached this concept from a historical angle rather than from a stark quantitative approach. I found this tact to draw the reader in as he explained, with an understandable and intriguing timeline of historical events many of the freedoms and private property rights secured and at most times lost by humanity. Perceiving historical events from this perspective, not only sheds light on another set of motives and causes of events from an economic standpoint, but also for understanding history with fuller color. Any student of history would enjoy this new angle to many of the occurrences which have shaped our nation and many others in the world.

In fact, isn't it almost always true that watershed events in history revolve around either taxation or the looting and plundering of another nation. What are wars and changes in political regimes usually fought over? What is the only ideal or motive which could be upheld which would justify the killing of so many individuals or human rights? The answer seems to lay in some form of monetary persuasion. Think about it. What was the battle cry of the American Revolution? No taxation without representation! Contrary to popular opinion what was a driving factor behind the events which sparked the American Civil War? Tariffs and taxation played an important role in driving both sides to disaster. This is not say that other factors do not play a part in the major world events, but simply that economics has an important role, one that we might not always consider. Perhaps a good question to ask yourself when viewing geo-politics and other world occurrences might be, "Who gets the money?"

What struck me as a most intriguing approach by Dr. Pipes, is his contrast of the development of the two most diametrically opposite countries, in terms of the protection of property rights and economic freedoms. If we consider, England and her Englishly influenced offspring, Americans, they have developed throughout the ages as unique societies in which property, civil, and economic rights have been held in high regard. While in Russia, these concepts have suffered ever since the early days of a burgeoning society began to emerge in the land of snow. Pipes does not leave this occurrence to chance. He does provide several reasons which have influenced these two nations and their differing views of property rights.

Early on in his book Pipes can be quoted as saying, "it is widely recognized among historians that Calvinism did a great deal to foster the capitalistic spirit." Pipes continues throughout his book with the underlying concept of Christianity and namely a protestant Calvinistic viewpoint which fostered many of the ideals of private property and economic and civil liberty which we so highly prize. For the Christian this is understandable. We know in the Bible that God has set down laws protecting human life, protecting private property and many of the other civil rights which are essential to humans coexisting peacefully and prosperously. We must never forget that although it is easy to fall into the traps of utilitarianism while studying economic philosophy, one can only have a full and all encompassing understanding of these concepts only if you view them from a Christian worldview. It is for this reason that I strongly recommend this book. It is the first of its kind that I have read, which unashamedly put forth Christianity as necessary for understanding economic philosophy.

This ideal, must be understood as that which has always been lacking from Russian government and from all governments which lack freedom. It is not hard to understand why social planning and totalitarianism creep into a society if it is not rooted in Christian principles. The colonists and the Englishmen understood the role of Christ in society and in government. It is by no accident that when the founders set up our government as a representative republic. They did so because they wished to follow Biblical principles. In our society today we must understand this concept as well. It is only through a strong understanding of the Bible and a Christian worldview that we can hope to remedy the evils which have crept in to choke our society.

Freedom is a new concept in the world. Amongst nations, America is still a young people with a short history. Are we to so soon to forget what our founders fought for and lose the liberties we still have? If change is to occur, people must be informed. Christians must be informed and well read individuals. Thus we must understand events from this perspective as well as from a biblical viewpoint. That is why I recommend this book because of its emphasis and explanation from many angles, both economic and historical with an underlying Christian approach. I look forward to your comments.

Pearl Harbor Day

2007-12-07T12:03:00.000-05:00

"A day that will live in infamy." ~ Franklin Roosevelt

When FDR uttered those words some 76 years ago the world was a much different place. Blogs did not exist. Cars, movies, and telephones were still emerging as the mainstays of technology and transportation. No one expected the affairs of distant Europe to touch the United States. But that was all to change as the rumbling and whirring of plane engines woke the inhabitants of the small island of Hawaii. In almost no time at all the United States had suffered one of the greatest attacks on her soil and was drawn into the great conflict of World War II.

One, issue, which always strikes me as one which we should all agree upon, is the support of our military. Many of us have dissenting opinions about the war in Iraq and Afghanistan, yet our actions toward the boys overseas should always be one of gratitude and support. We can disagree with politics but those boys dying are still Americans and they deserve our respect.

We all should support our troops. Many ways exist to lend a helping hand to families of those overseas and to bring a little bit of Christmas cheer to our armed forces. Movements like Operation Shoebox, among others, promotes the support of our troops and allow us to pitch in to make our soldier's days a little brighter. This holiday season let's keep in mind those fighting overseas.

Needless to say we should also keep in mind the real reason behind the Christmas season. There are many people who still have not heard the gospel message. We as Christians need to remember to spread the Gospel and emulate Christ's life in ours. Have a merry Holiday Season.

Russian Bear

2007-12-06T12:10:00.000-05:00

It appears that the West may yet have to deal with a strong totalitarian government seated in Moscow. The Iron Curtain may have been torn down but the threat of an unrestrained state looms as we edge closer to a climax in Russian politics.

Russia is no longer the terror state it was in the latter part of the 20th century but its citizens still live in fear and growing distrust of their leaders. I recently attended an event at my workplace, the Foundation for Economic Education, in which a Russian speaker, and former member of the Russian political system related many difficulties which Russians face and possible threats we may face from their regime.

His facts were stunning. What has sprung up in the wake of the collapse of the Soviet Union is a system of 'mafia' type departments headed by President Putin, who still remains in my book a former and possibly a current KGB officer. Individual departments of the Russian state have a basic free reign to act as they see fit. Thus many departments have the ability to oppress and control, much like the officers of the old Soviet Regime.

Further, Russia's economic system has dichotomized itself into two distinct groups. The wealthy businessmen with ties to politics and the lower class citizens. Concepts of freedom and democracy have showed signs of life but have had a little at best effect on the Russian system. Yet businessmen have little incentive to change the flow of money because the government is beneficial and encouraging to big business. In fact many Western companies have invested in Russian real estate and other ventures because the profit is large for a little effort.

On the other end of the spectrum, citizens constantly live in fear of harassment and danger. A striking example of government action are laws which allow government vehicles to disobey traffic laws. Hundreds of citizens are dying every month because of the reckless driving of government officials. However, no real change has been effected because citizens are too weak or uneducated to understand that changes are needed.

In the wake of the the decisive victory of President Putin's party in the legislature many people cried 'fraud' and 'cheat'. This victory paves the way for Putin to remain in office as either President or as a lower official who can take control through other members of the government. These events do not bode well for the people of Russia. For us in the West we have to realize that Russia may soon wish to excuse itself as a U.S. ally. Reinforcing the countries on the borders of Russia with NATO troops certainly does not help our situation.

Russia is a unique land because vast amounts of oil lies under its fields waiting to be released on the market. The United States has an opportunity to rid itself of dependence on Mideast oil while switching to a more willing provider of oil. We need to see this opportunity and seize it. Russia could become the ally we need to expand our economic horizons. We need to tame the Russian bear if we are to ensure the safety and preservation of our land.

Freedom of Speech

2007-11-29T09:44:00.000-05:00

What do political candidates, a melting snowman, and Youtube have in common? They all represent the newest form of free expression in America: the CNN/Youtube debates. In an effort to engage the online community in political debates CNN has partnered with Youtube to air videos during its presentation of the primary debates. Candidates are asked to respond to videos received and aired during the debates.

I couldn't help but admire the influence the online community has in our society. As a member of the blogs, it is important for those of us with a voice to be heard. As it does seemingly whenever I consider current events, my mind wandered to the economic and philosophic aspects to this new avenue of free expression.

Today we exercise this right through voting and through publication. Yet these debates showcase yet another avenue of expression. As the online community grows there are a growing number of involved individuals who can circumvent the constant droning of the mass media and voiceFreedom of speech is a protected right in our Constitution for a reason. One of the integral aspects of a freemarket and a free society is the right of the citizens to voice their opinions. opinions of their own. This is freedom at work. Through the internet those of us who do not have access to a mass media outlet have the oportunity to influence society.

But of course, with a new voice comes the cries of those who are opposed to the 'unbounded' opportunities the internet provides. While watching my favorite cable news show, the O'Reilly Factor, I took issue with his comments during a segment entitled: Policing the Net. O'Reilly opined that the videos available online are dangerous and could be used for evil. Websites like Youtube are too free and could pose a threat to the privacy of everyday folks. But here is the fundamental factor Bill so easily brushed aside. Personal responsibility. How is a video of your action going to appear on Youtube if you don't want it there? And if you do commit something that is 'Youtube worthy' then maybe you will think twice about what you actually do next time.

You see, people have to take responsibility for their actions. In the society that we live in we have to assume that everyone is looking to post up a video or picture of some else's indiscretion. That's just a given. Thus maybe people should be incited to watch what they do a little more closely. As the contributer to the segment mentioned the internet is a double edged sword. There is a good side and a bad side. Of course you really don't want to be followed around by a camera, fearing that everything you do may end up on Youtube or MySpace. But then, what are we really doing out in the public arena that's wrong? If we have nothing to fear then who cares? To simply decide that since some people are exhibited online for their indiscretions, we should all be denied the privilege to express through the internet, is absurd.

Many will rail and profess that speech cannot always be free. Some things should be limited. Perhaps, but this should be an individual and social occurrence not a government mandated one, especially in the field of politics. You see whenever we ask government to regulate an action, we ultimately fall into the gray area of definitions. What is free? What is not free? I'd rather live with Youtube and it faults than without it.

Take a look at the countries where websites like Google and Youtube are filtered and blocked. Do we need to live in a fascistic regime like China before we realize the necessity of free speech. The internet allows folks like me to write our thoughts without the fear of imprisonment. I can even express an opinion contrary to the mass media. A tool which has allowed a competitor to arise, especially in the cable news arena. The internet has given people a chance for an alternative if they find issue with media giants like Foxnews and CNN. The culmination of the influence of the internet today, was the partnership of CNN and Youtube.

In a free market competition is the key to efficiency and excellence. No one news organization should be allowed to demagogue or force feed us what it wants us to hear. It began with talk radio and has come to fruition with the internet and the bloggers. I'm thankful for my voice. I'm thankful for the opportunity to express my opinions. I believe that freedom of speech is a necessary component of a free society. If we are not free to have a voice in our land we are not free.

Movie Review: Matrix - Matrix Reloaded

2007-11-26T10:32:00.000-05:00

Well I'm back. I hope you all had a blessed holiday. There's nothing so festive as a thanksgiving meal shared with family and friends. It's Monday again and that means another movie review. I recently re-watched these two films and although I had another movie lined up for today's column, I couldn't help but post on these two epics.

The Matrix

Neo is a loner. He is also a notorious computer hacker. but these traits are not what set him apart from the crowd. Neo has uncovered a secret and someone wants to make sure he doesn't find out the truth.

In the first installment of the Wachowski brother's epic trilogy, we follow the life of a computer hacker, Neo played by Keanu Reeves who realizes that the world around him holds a hidden meaning. What is the Matrix? Whom does it control? These are the questions he seeks answers to. With the help of an array of imaginative characters this movie provides a revolutionary view of many concepts worth contemplating.

To aid Neo in his quest for the truth he must enlist the help of two other 'hackers': Morpheus (played by the veteran Laurence Fishburne) and Trinity (Carrie-Anne Moss). Together they must battle the endless attacks of agents led by the evil Agent Smith (portrayed by the always admirable Hugo Weaving) while attempting to free minds and save human civilization.

And of course, cinematically, this film has it all. From heart pounding cars chases and possibly the best Kung-fu and gun battles of all time, you will not cease to be amazed. What struck me the most, visually about this film, were the Wachowski's use of colors and camera angles to portray certain effects and moods. A good example could be the differences of scenes inside and outside of the Matrix. Green hues dominate the fictional reality of the Matrix while grays and browns dominate the real world.

However, putting aside the visual aspects of the film, the philosophical messages pervasive throughout the script and imagery add depth to the characters and to the film. The questions which the Wachowskis pose to the audience focus on control and choice. Are we controlled by machines who project reality as they see fit or are we actually in control of our own actions? Neo and his new found compatriots seek to find the answers to the great questions of reality. For Christians this movie poses very real commentary on reality. We know that God controls all things but we also have the power of choice in our lives. Choice is a powerful tool.

As the movie closes out after a riveting two hours we are left with Neo standing on a street ready to face the realm of the Matrix. His mission: to free minds from the control of the Matrix. As Christians isn't this in some way our mission to. We are commanded to evangelize people and bring them to the realization of the real world around them. In some ways the Matrix has interesting Christian parallels, philosophically and spiritually. I highly recommend watching this film. At the least you will be entertained, at the most inspired. I know I was. Our role in God's plan is to fulfill the Great Commission. If the unbelievers can see this ideal to be worthwhile, as Christians why shouldn't we.

The Matrix Reloaded

After the groundbreaking success of the first film the Wachowskis have brought us back for the second installment of this epic trilogy. With the end of the first film, we left Neo in the Matrix intent on freeing minds. In this installment we are transported to a more personal level with the characters. Neo and Trinity move closer to the destruction of the Matrix and the ultimate liberation of the human race, while Morpheus is intent on saving the human settlement of Zion.

And of course with a renewed series comes a renewed cast and a new array of villains and heroes. As if the Wachowskis couldn't top the effects of the first film, I was again amazed by the sheer proportion of many effects, the depth of background and visuals, and of course we have more Kung-fu coupled with to quote Neo, "guns lots of guns."

Numerous new ideas about film making are evident in this picture. If The Wizard of Oz introduced color to movies this film has ushered in the CGI age. Almost every scene is touched with the digital pen. Nothing that the Wachowskis could dream up has been left out. It seems that the ability to express and to amaze is unlimited.

Certainly, welcome additions to the story line are the philosophical exercises and the spiritual parallels. What fans loved about the first movie is filled out and many questions are answered while some remain a mystery. I have refrained from reviewing the third film as I think it should have its own review at some point. However, watching these two films together completes the first part of the story and will encapsulate many themes relevant in our society today.

One of the greatest lines of the film (and the real point of the trilogy) comes from a older counselor as he converses with Neo. "We created machines to serve us. But do we not also serve them? What is control?" Neo responds by saying that we have the power to shut the machines down if we wish, that is control. But is it really? The counselor further points out that if we shut the machines down we would have no running water and no electricity. Aren't we in some ways also controlled by them?

These ideas are specifically relevant today. In the great political machine do we really control anything through voting? Do we really have a voice? Are there really just a few superior individuals who plan it all out for us. Are our lives simply, as Pink Floyd noted, just bricks in the wall. If we consider economics and philosophy we can't help but see the many parallels to real life in this film.

Ultimately, what the Wachowskis have done is to disguise a social commentary through a science fiction fantasy film. Go ahead watch the films. You will enjoy them. If you try to see beyond the mere visual aspect of these films you can really become engrossed in the deeper meanings behind the different characters and imagery. By watching these movies I hope you become a freer mind.

Week in Review: Nov 12 - Nov 16

2007-11-16T10:23:00.000-05:00

As another week comes to a close here in the publication department of the Foundation for Economic Education, it is time once again for my weekly roundup of various events from the wide spectrum of social happenings. I hope you all enjoyed my review of the Aviator, my ruminations on law and government, and my post concerning the economics of laughter. My post for the day will be a little different than previous Week's In Review. I have actually selected an interesting piece of journalism as the focus of today's post. Well, without further ado, here goes...

One Flew over the Cuckoo's Nest

For many years, Anthony Flew has remained a staunch denier of the existence of God. Often citied as a premier philosopher his views have been championed by many as the basis for an Atheistic belief system. It is not surprising then, that the New York Times ran a six page article on Flew's possible 'conversion' to theism.

However, is it possible that as his flame of life nears death and his years begin to mark many decades, that this man may actually have a change of heart? As Chrisitans, we know that God can work miracles in the heart of any individual he so chooses. Nothing is beyond his power and many of his actions are beyond our comprehension. After many years as a staunch adversary to theistic doctrine, Anthony Flew has proclaimed that a God may exist.

Of course we must not take this as reason to believe that he has accepted Christ as his savior. Only, that perhaps he has learned, at least, the many pitfalls of Atheism. Even a general glance into nature and creation would seem to suggest a designer. Advocates of the "Intelligent Design" theory, though they may not be born again Christians, realize that the complexity of nature is too intricate to have come about by chance. Some super intelligent being must have had a hand in the creation of the universe. As Christians we know this to be the case. God designed nature; he designed humans.

In the field of Economics, atheism/evolutionism abounds as a the main view of creation and social order. Utilitarianism, tries to explain the basis of a moral law and the many market 'laws' that are existent in the market economy, through the concept of 'spontaneous order'. Many popular free market economists, including Ayn Rand and Ludwig Von Mises were agnostic in their beliefs if not basically atheistic. As Christians we know that the only way to explain market order, both socially and morally is through the Bible. Economics must be taught and understood from a Christian perspective if we are to have a firm basis for the truths embedded in the market economy.

As a recreational philosopher and apologist this article from the New York Times intrigued me. I hope you will read it and leave a comment or two. Many evangelicals will take this a reason for rejoicing. I think it is wise to understand the whole story, but at the same time we can use this man's life as a tool for witnessing and for teaching those around us. Go ahead, read the article. Perhaps you will be spurred to studying more on philosophy...

In other News...

Clinton Campaign Praises 'Outstanding' Debate

Not long after her unhinged and overwhelmed performance in the previous Democratic debates, the Clinton Campaign praised CNN host, Wolf Blitzer, for a fair and 'outstanding' debate. This on the heels of Hilliary being hounded by fellow democrats and Tim Russert on live telvision.
Her failure to answer pointed questions and her inability to retain a stately presence on stage led many of her followers to attack those who sponsored and ran the debate. Threats, even of violence against debate host Tim Russert, abounded.

It seems that the Hillary campaign and her followers are afraid to have the senator exposed for who and what she really is. She has no spine, and cannot even retain a presidential demeanor when asked tough questions. Perhaps the American people will realize that even a democratic candidate will need to act more presidential before being elected. Excuses cannot simply win an election. Senator Clinton will need to show a real sense of competence and must be tested through fire. Are democrats that afraid of her possible meltdown? Does the CNN host need to stoop to protecting Hillary by not asking any tough questions? Perhaps, I just hope the American people can see the sham and make the proper choices.

Bonds Indicted - A-Rod Back to Yanks

Amid many allegations and rumors it has finally been announced that the superstar slugger, who recently became baseball's homer king, will be indicted for perjury while testifying to a Federal Grand Jury. Many baseball fans took a mixed approach to Bonds and his records, some calling for praise, while others clamored for an asterisk. Whatever, the outcome of this indictment, Bonds will forever be tainted as a possible cheater and a liar. Although Bud Selig has tried to paint over as much of the steroid scandal as possible, I hope that people will see the slugger and the game for what it is: an overpaid, roided up, circus.

Have any of you wondered why tickets and concessions are so expensive at a game. Players make too much. Owners pay them too much. It is a simple fact. If we want to better enjoy our national pastime we had better find a way to limit what players make and how much drugs they take.

Alex Rodriguez is living proof to this fact. Not content with setting a record for being the highest paid player in baseball. Alex wants more. In fact he wants an alleged 275 million dollars over 10 years. Despite the fact that he has superior hitting stats (in an age when pitchers lack talent), he has never delivered what Yankee fans covet most: a World Series trophy. What can be the mindset behind paying a player a ridiculous amount of money for a no show? One can only wonder...

It's Almost Thanksgiving!

For me the holiday season officially begins when Thanksgiving rolls around. All of us remember family reunions and the smell of a fresh turkey and ham. Let's make this holiday season one to remember. Let's stop and consider those around us. Let's stop and consider where we were this time last year. Let's stop and consider how much God has done in our lives. The old adage is true. We should all count our blessings and try to pass on a blessing or two to those around us.

Have a merry holiday season!

Economics of Laughter

2007-11-15T11:25:00.000-05:00

I have decided to make the economics column of my daily blog a little more lighthearted than in the past. After all even if we know there are many disasters and debacles in our economy, if we can't sit back and laugh at it all, where are we?

While perusing the net I came across these jokes. I hope you have a big ol' lighthearted laugh while reading.

TOP 10 REASONS TO STUDY ECONOMICS

1. You can talk about money without ever having to
make any.

2. You get to say "trickle down" with a straight face.

3. Economists are armed and dangerous: "Watch out for our invisible hands."

4. Mick Jagger and Arnold Schwarzenegger both studied
economics and look how they turned out.

5. When you are in the unemployment line, at least you
will know why you are there.

6. If you rearrange the letters in "ECONOMICS", you
get "COMIC NOSE".

7. Although ethics teaches that virtue is its own
reward, in economics we get taught that reward is its
own virtue.

8. When you get drunk, you can tell everyone that you
are just researching the law of diminishing marginal
utility.

9. You can't be wrong; only subject to an unexpected
asymmetric shock.

10. An economist is an expert who will know tomorrow why the things he predicted yesterday didn't happen today.

***

Light Bulb Jokes always get me laughing

Q: How many neo-classical economists does it take to change a light bulb?

A: It depends on the wage rate.

Q: How many conservative economists does it take to change a light bulb?

A1: None. The darkness will cause the light bulb to change by itself.

A2: None. If it really needed changing, market forces would have caused it to happen.

A3: None. If the government would just leave it alone, it would screw itself in.

A4. None; they're all waiting for the unseen hand of the market to correct the lighting disequilibrium.

Q: How many Trotskyists does it take to change a lightbulb?

A: None. Smash it!

Q; How many central bank economists does it take to screw in a lightbulb?

A: Just one -- he holds the lightbulb and the whole earth revolves around him.

***

And my personal favorites

A Rabbi, a priest, and and minister are playing golf. The priest asks the other two how they decide how much tithe money they give to God and how much they give to the poor. The minister remarks that he draws a circle on the ground and whatever money he throws up into the air and lands in the circle he gives to God. The priest interestedly comments that he draws a circle on the ground and throws the money in the air (not to be outdone by the minister) and whatever lands outside the circle he gives to God.

The Rabbi hearing all this simply states that he throws his money in the air and whatever God wants he takes.

***

Once there was a little boy who desperately wanted a new red bicycle. However, the bicycle was too expensive for the money in his piggy bank. So he decided to ask God to send him $100 for the bicycle. Writing up a letter he addressed the envelope: The Lord, Washington D.C.

When the mail sorter saw this he decided to send it to President Bush. Upon receiving the letter the President was touched by the innocent letter. He promptly placed $5 dollars inside the envelope and sent it back to the boy.

The boy was thrilled to see a return envelope in the mailbox the next day. Opening the envelope and seeing $5 he exclaimed, "Wow. They sure charged God a lot of income tax."

***

I hope you all have a brighter day. And remember that even amidst the trials, tribulations and drudgery of life we can always find time for a smile and a laugh. In fact smiling every day will add years to your life. Think about that for a while...

The Law

2007-11-13T11:31:00.000-05:00

The law perverted! And the police powers of the state perverted
along with it! The law, I say, not only turned from its
proper purpose but made to follow an entirely contrary purpose!
The law become the weapon of every kind of greed! Instead of
checking crime, the law itself guilty of the evils it is supposed to
punish!
If this is true, it is a serious fact, and moral duty requires me
to call the attention of my fellow-citizens to it.

~ Frederich Bastiat

Foundations of Law

Laws are existent everywhere. The laws of logic control speech and dialogue. The laws of physics govern science. The laws or rules of your favorite sporting event govern the actions of players. Laws exist to form a structured order for society and humans to operate in. But where do laws come from? Why are there laws imprinted in the universe?

As Bastiat states, laws are existent because we as humans must protect the rights which God, the divine creator, has entrusted to us. If we perchance glance through the pages of God's divinely inspired book we can see numerous examples of his law laid down for us. Law is inherently divine. We must accept that a divine infinite being imprinted laws in the universe which govern our world. A biblical Christian approach to law can and is the only way for us to fully understand the laws of the universe, and those which should govern a society morally.

You see, a necessary component of law must be that laws cannot be arbitrary. Humans can never necessarily be objective. Thus a infinite cosmic being, infallible and omniscient, one outside of our realm, had to create laws. Further, laws must not infringe upon the rights of fellow human beings. Laws cannot act as a method for a few to exploit many. There must exist equal representation under the law. It is this main point which Bastiat tries to teach and explain through his work The Law.

Different Laws for Society and Government

Once we understand that law emanates from a creator, we must face the challenge of interpreting this law for our society. How do we know which laws should be instituted among men and which laws exist for the governance of our own lives personally?

What we must first understand is that all of God's law is binding and existent in society. However, the judgment which follows from that law and the decision of who should enforce certain laws is open to human interpretation. In this instance, we must decide in light of several factors.

What we must first understand is that many laws given in the old testament had specific relevance to the nation of Israel and to a specifically divinely chosen people for God's divine purpose. This is not to say that God has made different laws at different times (he couldn't do this because then he would be mutable) . What I am saying is that God has enforced his law and chosen who will enforce his laws in different ways. What we can never lose sight of in the grand scheme is that mercy plays a factor in creation as well.

Once we understand that different laws are enforced differently we can come to fully grasp what the duties of a government and society should be toward the enforcement of certain laws. Since we no longer live in ancient Israel we must assume that not all of the laws which were given to that nation are in effect or should be enforced today. We can easily see this concept in effect today. We no longer have the old ceremonial laws. We do not need to sacrifice animals anymore. Thus laws which governed specific portions of Israelite life are not enforced today.

Does a Christian Society Exist Today

This leads me to my main proposition on enforceable law. I do not believe that we live in a divinely mandated Christian society existent today. This does not mean that we are not supposed to preach and teach and try to reclaim society for Christ but I do not believe that governments should control the religious aspects of your life. If we stand with the founding fathers we must understand that the basic just duty of a government is the protection of its citizens and the enforcement of justice and peace. This means that governments should be limited to protecting citizens from dangerous individuals and from those who wish to harm our citizens from other lands.

You see, people should have the ability to live freely in a society. Government should not infringe upon the rights of its citizens. Governments can and should only mete out justice when citizens seek to or do harm to other citizens. If citizens wish to engage in a action which does not harm anyone government should stay out of their private lives. I am speaking here of the social stigmas attached to the ideas of marijuana, homosexuality among other 'vices' of humanity. Governments should not make laws concerning the deeds people wish to do to themselves, which harm no one but themselves.

Perhaps I should mention here that I am speaking of national governments. Smaller decentralized government's (i.e. state and local) may possibly have the power to make these types of laws. The principle in effect here is that on a smaller scale there can be more direct representation. If a small community of Christians wishes to ban homos from their community that is there prerogative. What I am trying to stress is that national governments cannot attempt to force laws upon millions of people who may have differing views. We should for the most part allow the market to act in the deciding of these types of vices. Homos usually live with other homos, Christians with Christians. That is precisely the reason why the Constitution does not have any religious language or specific laws pertaining to the types of 'vices' I have mentioned.

My main point here is that we must not discount that fact that social pressure exists in a society. If we Christians have no faith that our message cannot influence culture then we are lost. Do we simply need government to institute laws to force our faith on others. You see, if we believe a certain action is wrong we can witness to those who are not following our belief. When Paul entered Ephesus did he simply smash every idol in existence? When the Ephesian church sprang up was this their action as well? The answer is no. Since we no longer live in ancient Israel our actions must be those of evangelism not activism. Before we can ever hope to have Biblical law in place we must first teach individuals. I am not arguing against Biblical law, merely that it is not practically institutable today. I would rather have the government be banned from legislating a religion than giving it that power and having it abused.

What Government Should and Shouldn't Do

I briefly touched on the fact that government is instituted for the protection of the citizenry. This is true. We need to have a government to protect us. In any society if we are to have a structured moral order we must have a hierarchy in place to mete out the just laws of that society. What Bastiat focuses on in his book is that fact that governments cannot and should never abuse the power given to them.

He exemplifies this concept in his discussion of legal and illegal plunder. If governments are to protect the citizens there must exist a way for governments to pay for the appropriation of funds to cover the costs of protection. Maintaining a navy and and army in time of war costs money. If we exclude the basic principles of privately funded protectionary agencies, we can also assume that governments will need money to pay police forces as well. Where can governments get this money?

The answer is simple: tariffs. A government instituted tariff would cover costs and people would still choose to buy a product, which was levied against, of their own free will. You see governments would be taxing the imports of other nations. Thus a direct tax would not exist. No income tax or flat tax or any head tax can ever be morally right nor justified. This type of tax is precisely what Bastiat concludes is legal plunder.

Legal Plunder

If we assume the basic principles of private ownership of body and property are correct, then governments can never be justified in taxing the fruit of your labor or your property. Further, what Bastiat examines in his treatise are the actions of a government which engages in the redistribution of wealth according to arbitrary whim or the rent seeking actions of sly politicians.

Government must never seek to simply take from a to give to b. When this occurs we have as Bastiat proclaims: legal plunder. The government has succeeded in legislating and legalizing theft. When we as citizens are forced to pay income tax and social security tax against our will our government is legally plundering us. There is no difference between the actions of a despotic state which simply takes by force and one which legislates through a democratic process the same action.

You see, we can never as citizens cede power to a government which we humans in nature do not already have. In nature it is immoral for one individual to forcibly steal from another. It is immoral for one's actions to infringe upon the rights of another. Thus we cannot cede the power of government control of our labor, through majority vote, since we do not have the power to steal in nature.

What is practical for today's society?

As I have stated, we do not live a specifically mandated divine kingdom belonging to God. Of course, I do not discount the Great Commission. We are supposed to as Christians try and reclaim the world for Christ. However, what I am saying is that national government should be limited. This was precisely Bastiat's point; national governments should be limited and should never engage in actions which infringe upon the rights of individuals.

National governments should stick to the defense of a nation and the meting out of justice as per the laws of the land (laws such as treason). Other laws against murder and theft should be state moderated and individual to decentralized communities. Perhaps if we followed this advice we wouldn't run into all the problems we have in our nation today.

Go ahead. Read this little treatise. It is definitely worth the read and it opened my eyes in so many ways. Leave a comment to.

Movie Review: The Aviator

2007-11-12T12:05:00.000-05:00

Well it's Monday again, which is movie review day. I hope you all enjoyed last week's review of Three Days of the Condor. Continuing in the vein of the market economy and government control, I have chosen to review one of my favorite films, The Aviator, winner of 5 academy awards.

The Aviator

"It's the way of the future!" ~ Howard Hughes

Howard Hughes loves to fly. From the time he was a small boy he has always been fascinated by man's ability to soar among the clouds. But Howard Hughes is no ordinary man. He is a dreamer. An idealist. As Ayn Rand would phrase it: a producer.

From Academy Award winner Martin Scorsese (Gangs of New York, Goodfellas) comes an epic film depicting the life of an American icon, Howard Hughes. Played masterfully by Leonardo DiCaprio (Titanic, Catch Me If You Can), we follow Hughes' life story, from a small child to his eventual battle with insanity and his ultimate triumph over critics and Congress. This epic tale portrays a man apart from the world, striving to enhance human existence by his deeds and inventions.

As with any Scorsese film, direction and cinematography rivals that of perfection and acting and scripting portrays a believable and lifelike atmosphere. Along for the ride, Academy Award winner Cate Blanchett, as the beautiful love of Howard's life, Kathrine Hepburn joins Alec Baldwin and numerous Hollywood favorites who add depth to the film's perspective and drama. One aspect which drew me in was the film's nostalgic feel and the connection of numerous subplots in Howard's life. All of the actors created a riveting performance.

What struck me as most intriguing about the film, were the parallels to Ayn Rand's classic novel, Atlas Shrugged. What must be grasped, if anything from the film, is the fact that Howard Hughes is a producer. He invents and creates, continually searching for the answers to new problems. He incessantly seeks new methods which will enhance the quality of life humanity enjoys. The numerous inventions and methods we see Howard produce in the film are only a small sample of the number of products which he created in real life. (I highly recommend viewing the special features on the D.V.D. version which contain excellent documentaries citing all of Howard's life work.)

But along with fame, fortune, and new ideas come those who wish to keep the old and destroy the new. The film portrays this aspect of Howard's life extensively. He constantly battles against rival manufacturers and government restriction to remain a premier inventor. Our view into the 'behind the scenes' of government politics and rent seeking is insightful and eye opening. Is it possible that our government actually runs at the behest of big business and easily swayed politicians. The idea doesn't seem too far fetched.

I highly recommend this film to any friend of liberty and free enterprise. What you see in the film will change your outlook of a man who created because he enjoyed doing so. Like Mozart or DaVinci before him, Howard Hughes was and should be considered an icon in the realm of imagination and creation. Go ahead, watch the film. You will certainly be enlightened if not entertained by an excellent film.

Week in Review: Nov 5 - Nov 9

2007-11-09T11:32:00.000-05:00

Well, I am once again wrapping up an exciting week for my blog. I hope you enjoyed my movie review of Three Days of the Condor, and my posts concerning American imperialism and taxation. Numerous other interesting events and topics swirl in my brain while writing posts. Most of which I never have time to cover in a single post. In this edition of my blog, I hope to cover some scattered events from politics to entertainment.

Former Prime Minister Bhutto Returns to Pakistan

In an already embroiled region of the world, a new conflict is set to unfold in Pakistan. Former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto returned to Pakistan after exile to challenge President Musharraf in the coming election. The ensuing events will define Pakistan, either as an ally in the fight for democracy in the Middle East or as yet another dictatorial state run by a tyrannical leader. Over 5000 opposition protesters were arrested. Even the supreme court of the land was suspended in order to make way for Musharraf's actions.

What strikes me as shocking is that we continue to fund these 'terrorist' states by supplying federal aid to their regimes. Isn't it time that the American people were refunded some of their money? Is it really necessary to prop up evil regimes in the Mid East. Congressman Ron Paul has eluded to this fact in many interviews. I only hope that a democratic change in government will take place in Pakistan. May the light of Liberty never dim.

Dollar Sinks Lower Amid Economy Fears

Over the last several years the U.S. dollar has continually lost ground with competitive foreign currency. The Canadian dollar and the Euro have surged to new heights as the strength and trust in the U.S. economy is failing. However, an interesting take on the current market exchange price of currency is that while we are focused on the dollar the actual strength of other currencies may be dropping as well. The Euro is not as strong as it was. Even though the U.S. economy seems to be in a tail spin, other economies are not fairing so well either.

What we need to realize is, as I talked about in my post on the gold standard, that faith in paper currency is relative. No real reason exists for you to trust in a simple piece of paper. In actuality it is 'faith' that we exchange at the Drug store or supermarket. It is faith that keeps our economy together. If at any time one person begins to realize that he doesn't want to sell his goods for paper then the ball has started rolling down a steep and slippery slope. It may not be long before producers try to receive a more substantial payment for their product. Until that time, governments both national and foreign will continue to regulate currency and exchange rates. Here's hoping that we finally realize that we need a gold standard.

Ron Paul Raises Record Amount

Presidential hopeful Ron Paul succeeded in raising a record amount of funding for his growing campaign. Coinciding with November 5 members of the website www.thisnovember5th.com managed to create a groundswell of donations to the Ron Paul campaign. Donations exceeded 4 million dollars, breaking the record of single day donations set by Mitt Romney. Perhaps this shows the true support for the Paul campaign. People are willing to put their money where there mouth is and vote for liberty, democracy, and freedom. If Paul manges to win a primary and eventually a presidency, many of the principles advocated by free market capitalists, homeschoolers, and Christians may gain ground. That would be a demonstrative step forward for freedom. On election day remember, a vote for Ron Paul is a vote for freedom.

Underwood Chesney Repeat at CMAs.

Although I am not a big fan of country music, I couldn't help but notice that Carrie Underwood and Kenny Chesney scored big at the awards ceremony. Music plays a big part in my life and I admire musicians with talent. One interesting aspect to music is the sometimes overlooked Christian side. Underwood has been outspoken about her faith, which provides a clean godly image for fans of her music.

I perused an interesting article this week by longtime friend of Eric Clapton and Bob Dylan, Scott Ross. You can read the article here. He traces a godly influence in the lives of many rock heroes, even in those we may not have realized could be touched by the Spirit. God works in mysterious ways and I am always amazed that amid the chaotic years of the early 60s one of the top hit songs encapsulated a Bible verse. The Byrds, classic melody 'Turn, Turn, Turn' puts to music a portion of Ecclesiastes. Go figure...

I must confess that country music does have a certain American feel to its rhythm and a genuine aspect to its soul. Perhaps, the skill level of musicians is greater in country music as compared to other genre's today. I don't believe that music will ever again reach the heights it did in the 60s and 70s and maybe for good reason. Drug use and rebellion were prevalent themes and may have been the 'fuel' behind many of the bands we know and love. Still, the ringing vibrations of the Who, the Doors, Beatles, Clapton, and Hendrix epitomize Rock and Roll. Perhaps Christians can once again take hold and flourish in an art which for years was used for God's glorification. As the holiday season rolls around take some time to listen to Handel's Messiah. Need we look for further inspiration.

Tax Wars

2007-11-07T14:55:00.000-05:00

Recently Ron Paul appeared on Jay Leno and was queried as to what type of tax he believed was 'fair'. Congressman Paul responded that he was in favor of a flat tax, in fact a very flat tax somewhere in the neighborhood of zero. While the congressman's remarks were witty and entertaining, he did shed light upon a issue which has been debated in this country since the time of the founding of our nation.

Perhaps to better understand this issue we should first examine it from a biblical perspective.

Biblical Theory of Taxes

In the Bible taxes do exist. In ancient Israel, Jews were required to pay a temple tax which supported Levites and the duties thereof. Taxes are a necessary means of support for state run functions. Jesus can be quoted as saying, "give to Caesar what is Caesar's". As Christians 'legitimate taxes do exist (we need to follow God's law and tithe to the church). We only find a problem with taxes when they are illegitimate or when governments attempt to steal from the people through taxation. Thus , who decides when taxes are 'good' and 'bad'? As Christians, how are we supposed to make this judgment?

Legitimate Taxation

When our nation was founded the Constitution provides our government with the power to 'lay and collect taxes' (Article 2 Section 8). What this provision meant, was specifically speaking to taxes which would provide for the common defense, establishment of justice and the assurance of domestic tranquility. In short, this article gave the government power to build and army, forts, maintain a police force, and possibly build roads and provide for the sustenance of members serving in the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of the government. This power limited the government to specific purposes. This power to tax should never have been or be taken out of context or misinterpreted in light of other parts of the Constitution. Unfortunately this has become the case in society today.

Legal Plunder

In his masterful little work The Law, the French philosopher, Frederich Bastiat, enumerates several ways that a government can engage in what he calls legal plunder. This simply means that the state legalizes either the redistribution of wealth or the direct taxation of the populous for purposes of it own gain. We see this in practice constantly in our government today. Income tax, social security tax, and inflation are only a few of the ways that our government seeks to plunder the citizens of their hard earned wealth and use the newly acquired wealth for its own purpose. Since our nation's inception we have had to deal with this problem.

The Civil War was fought with this issue in mind. Countless examples exist in which we find the government stepping in, in order to transfer wealth from one to another, netting a monetary gain for government or a gain in votes. We must understand as citizens that any tax which transfers wealth or which taxes what you own involuntarily, is unjust. This was the exact reason why the Colonists in the late 1700s decided to break away from England. Have we today drifted so far from our roots that we have forgotten the cry, "no taxation without representation"? We need to reexamine the tax issue in order to see what taxes should be legal and which ones are instituted with theft in mind.

Is there a fair tax?

I don't believe that a fair tax can exist. I do believe that a just tax can. If we break down our theory of government simply to that of considering the state as a contract unit, we come to a simple conclusion. What is it that we want the state to do? We want the state to protect us and mete out justice. In the Bible this is what is laid out as a legitimate function of government. Romans. Thus if we (all the states) agree, as the 13 colonies did in 1787, to entrust certain powers to our government, we can also entrust to them the power to collect a tax to pay for that said power. A helpful hint which will guide us on our path to legal powers of government, is to say that we cannot delegate any power to a state that we, as humans morally, in nature do not possess. This means that we can never entrust the state with a power to steal because humans in nature do not morally have that power.

Theft by force does exist in nature but the idea here is a moral basis for taxation. If the government simply wants to fascisticly take your property, there really exists no way, except by vote or revolt, to stop them. Thus taxes can be just, but a fair tax never exists. If the government ever decides to arbitrarily take your money to pay for some action not within its jurisdictional right then the government is wrong and immoral.

A Path to Less Taxes

The only path to lessening the tax burden is for citizens to educate themselves as to the real motives of government. We need to understand the real role of government and vote for change. That's why I write on this blog. Perhaps in the future, we can begin to see a change of heart among the American people. Until citizens realize that government sponsored health care, social security, foreign aid, income tax, death tax, property tax, inheritance tax and inflation are theft, there will never be real change. Here's hoping that one day America will wake up before it is too late...

American Imperialism

2007-11-06T10:03:00.000-05:00

In an earlier edition of my daily blog, I promised to address the unfounded error of the necessity of the Iraq war. Here's what I have to say...

Necessary Engagement?

We must consider the events prior to the Iraq war to truly consider whether there is sufficient reason for our occupation of Iraq. A little history lesson might be in order here. We were in fact attacked on 9/11. I do not deny that fact. We were indeed invaded by a foreign force and we rightly went in Afghanistan to fight and capture the terrorists who murdered 5000 innocent Americans. However, the reason and mission of the Iraq war was entirely different.

If we remember correctly, the name of the 'mission' in Iraq was entitled by the administration "Operation: Iraqi Freedom". Is it really our job as the United States of America to free everyone around the world from oppression? Could there possibly be some nations who don't want and can't function with democracy in place? Perhaps we are finding out only too late that Middle Eastern nations don't want and can't handle democracy.

Yet, even if the administration felt that the War in Iraq was a necessary effort to protect national security (which is debatable), why has there been no effort to secure our homeland first. Our borders still remain unchecked and our airlines are still vulnerable. Even the creation of the Department of Homeland Security has done little to ameliorate these potential dangers. All that we have to show for the new 'crackdown' on terrorism, is a loss of liberty. The Patriot Act and other pieces of legislation have led to the infringement of many constitutional rights. Granted, in a time of war you are bound to lose some freedoms but I would at least like to see a return on investment. I have a hard time supporting a war for Iraqi freedom when I continue to lose my own.

This does not even bring into account the issues of stabilization, fear and the protection of a safe supply of oil. It is a known fact that the region is rich with the precious liquid. Is it a far stretch to think that this may have factored into the administrations plans to invade Iraq. We haven't found WMDs. Perhaps, because they were never there. As I opined in my review of the film Three Days of the Condor, I am hesitant to believe anything that that government purports as truth. Most policy is political. Ulterior motives exist. One reason or after fact of war is that someone usually gets rich. Arms manufacturers, Construction Contractor, and Infrastructure planners always benefit from demolishing and rebuilding a nation. This is not to say that the Bush administration invaded Iraq for simple monetary gain, except that it may have been a factor.

Bring the Boys Home

Perhaps it is time to bring the troops home. Why should I have to pay for a war and the rebuilding of a nation? I would rather have money to build my own house than have to be forced to build someone else's. The government already steals enough money from its citizens, allocating and redistributing wealth among the people. Must we also be subject to the plunder of our wealth, to give it to a foreign nation. If the Iraqis really want to prosper and be free why don't they get off the streets, stop blowing each other up in civil war, and start rebuilding their nation. It simply isn't and shouldn't be our job.

One of the fundamental flaws of welfare stems from the fact that if you provide the means for sustenance for free, the person will have no desire to work for it. They will be caught in a never ending circle of laziness and unproductivity. What else will the do but blow each other up over religious views.

The founders understood this main problem of foreign entanglements. Ever since our policies changed toward our involvement in geo-politics we have slowly aided criminals and created a hatred of the west. Didn't we fund Osama Bin Laden when he fought the Russians? The very same weapons and money we supplied him with enabled him to attack us. Our presence in the Middle East has created a distrust and hatred among the people. Would you like it if a tank was parked outside your house? I'm not saying that Islamic extremism doesn't exist. What I am saying is that, as Ron Paul said, so does blowback.

Is there a solution?

How do we solve this situation? Well as a start, we could do more to secure our own borders. My untested but highly workable theory is that if they can't get here then they can't hurt us. We need to crack down on criminals and possible terrorist networks here in the U.S. If any of us have ever watched 24 you'll know that Jack Bauer doesn't deal with terrorists overseas. He deals with them on U.S. soil. Once we have accomplished this type of lockdown we need to secure our air travel. We should all be able to fly safely. Then we should proceed to cut funding of foreign aid programs that fund terror. Check out these links if you don't believe me. By bringing the troops home and securing our national borders we stand a much better chance of not getting attacked than if we fight them in another land and yet leave our backdoor open.

The way I see it America has policed the world for far too long. We need to begin to protect ourselves and start to let the rest of the world worry about themselves for a change. Then maybe we can gain some of our liberties back...

Movie Review: Three Days of the Condor

2007-11-05T13:20:00.000-05:00

I hope to make this a permanent topic of this blog. Perhaps, a weekly or or monthly event. We all love movies don't we? Here goes...

Three Days of the Condor

Joseph Turner likes to read books. In fact that's his job. As a CIA analyst he reads every book published, searching for codes and secret organizations. However, his day suddenly turns deadly as he returns to his office only to find his co-workers murdered. Who is behind this plot? Who is trying to kill him? What has he unknowingly uncovered that puts him in danger?

This classic film from acclaimed director Sydney Pollack (Jeremiah Johnson, Absence of Malice) follows the harrowing three days of Joseph Turner's life. Joseph Turner played masterfully by Robert Redford, must try to uncover the secret behind the murder of his co-workers and what he has unknowingly stumbled upon in his reading. Redford is joined by an A-list cast, as Faye Dunaway and Cliff Robertson support. Dunaway plays Redford's innocent accomplice while Robertson stands in as the professional and a-moral CIA Director.

Striking visuals and superb directing lend to the detailed plot and the ultimate plot climax and twist. Pollack brings a unique directing style to the film as each shot portrays a certain feel and adds to the mysterious and intense atmosphere of the film. Perhaps the most interesting shot of the picture portrays Redford cloaked in darkness, his face only illuminated by the flashes of a red neon light.

What struck me as most provocative about the film was the ultimate answer to all of Joe Turner's questions.

(Plot twist proceeding, read no further if you intend to watch the film)

All of the events which have occurred have centered around his discovery of a secret CIA operation which proposes strategies for the 'invasion' of the Middle East. The purpose: procuring a safe supply of oil. I thought this plot message had special relevance today as we are not only fighting in the Middle East but also in a country that has a vast supply of oil. Coincidence? Perhaps, but we can still wonder.

In my opinion, I find it hard to swallow the idea that we need to fight terrorism overseas and yet we continue to leave our borders unprotected. Is the threat of terrorism that great if terrorists can't get here in the first place? Many will offhandedly remark, "Yeah, and 9/11 was an inside job." I am not simply stating that; however I am saying that we should not always believe everything the government wishes for us to believe.

I am always skeptical of government action especially when there is little evidence to prove the necessity of action. Ok, so we got the terrorists in Afghanistan, and Saddam is gone from Iraq, why do we need to still send troops to Iraq? Isn't it about time we tried to solve illegal immigration and find a way to really secure air travel. Do I really need to take my shoes off every time I go through a terminal? Perhaps wars are simply fought for the furthering of governmental control. In any case that is usually the result. Well, that's food for thought. I'd love to hear comments.

Altogether, the film was rousing and insightful. Direction was masterful and acting was superb and believable. Go ahead and watch the film. Perhaps there are ulterior motives behind geo-politics and global affairs. Perhaps the idea isn't as far fetched as we might think, when you give it some thought.

Week in Review: Oct 29 - Nov 2

2007-11-02T10:52:00.000-04:00

Well, my first week of blogging has found no lack of topic resources. I hope you all have enjoyed my posts on tariffs, Ron Paul, and the gold standard. Feel free to comment. I love hearing input from other scholars.

I hope to make this column a weekly event. A sort of weekly roundup of anything from politics to sports. Here goes...

Hillary Hounded In Debates

Senator Clinton finally made a fool out of herself (again) while being grilled by Tim Russert during the Democratic Presidential Debates, Tuesday. Perhaps a little honesty and courage on the senator's part could boost her poll numbers. What was more surprising was the way her fellow democrats viscously attacked her stance on Illegals and Driver's licenses. I believe that Senator Clinton is finally realizing that middle ground does not exist today even in her own party.

Reaction to the debate was quite heated, as woeful Hillary devotees cried out for Russert to be killed. Is that really necessary? If the Senator doesn't have the guts to stand up in a debate maybe she shouldn't be running at all. Perhaps, even democrats are realizing that Hillary isn't Presidential material. She just doesn't have the 'right stuff' as some like to say.

Paul Campaign gaining steam?

It is hard to calculate whether the support for Ron Paul is widespread or not but his ability to raise money and awareness certainly helps his chances. His website RonPaul2008.com reports that the Congressman has already raised over 2.5 million while trying to reach a December 31 goal of 12 million.

I don't believe he will actually win the primary, but I do think that his campaign is evidence of a rumbling among the traditional conservative party. I believe that more and more people are coming to their senses about the senseless neo-con vision. I only hope that enough people leave behind their reservations about libertarians and the congressman and decide to vote for the ablest and most moral candidate with a hat in the ring.

Hollywood Hopes Fall Movies are Saviors

This years roundup of flicks have been dumb, dumb, and dumber, cheesy, bad, and stupid. Without honorable mentions like Transformers and the Bourne Ultimatum, Hollywood is receiving a backlash after ticket sales of prospective blockbusters have been little to uneventful. Perhaps the movie industry should interpret the market as any intelligent business producer would. People don't want garbage. The movies you guys make are garbage. Until you guys get that through your heads at MiramaxAOLTimeWarner
NewLineCinema
FOXDisneyParamount, your ticket sales revenue will never rise. Which might not be a bad thing.

You see at a certain point even worldly people don't want to watch bad garbage. They can take a fair amount of 'good' garbage but quality still matters. As with almost all forms of media today, skill and real artistry is lost. No longer do we have acclaimed directors such as Alfred Hitchcock and Francis For Coppola or actors like Clint Eastwood and Robert Redford, or Al Pacino in his prime.

Most films today focus on action and violence. Real plot lines and intrigue rarely captivate an audience. Until talent starts to creep back into the film world, we will be relegated to Shoot 'em Up and antiwar films like Lions for Lambs.

In other news...

The New York Yankees agreed to sign Joe Girardi as the new Yankees manager. This comes after the Yanks decided not to bring Joe Torre back for another year. Perhaps the Yanks can build on the young talent emerging in their organization and build a club around a strong national league manger.

The Boston Red Sox have done this with their franchise and now it is the Yanks turn to follow the 'big kid on the block'. After completing their second World Series Sweep in four years the Red Sox have proven that fundamental baseball and pitching wins championships.

Going for Gold

2007-11-01T10:27:00.000-04:00

I couldn't help but notice that the price of Gold is continuing to rise in the face of our economic disasters of late. This should come as no surprise, as gold is a natural short to market factors including inflation and investor insecurity. However, as I pondered the price of gold my mind wandered to the current monetary plight in this country and the grave step towards disaster that our country took when we left the gold standard.

Until 1933, America retained a gold standard keeping to sound monetary policy by backing up printed dollars with a stable hard form of currency. This type of action prevented inflation in large part because the price of the dollar was linked to a fixed price of gold. We (the American monetary system) could be held accountable to other nations as well, if they held to a gold standard, because a common principle currency existed upon which everyone could agree and upon which the market set a value. By retaining this system in our country, from years of the gilded age (1870s to 1890s) right up until the Great Depression, we saw unprecedented economic, social and industrial growth in this country. Railroads were built, skyscrapers shot up in the urban landscape, and new inventions and innovation improved our standards of living.

However, in the economic panic of the Great Depression many sound economic policies were abandoned much to the detriment of the U.S. economy. As Britain left the gold standard in 1931 we soon followed suit and in 1933 F.D.R. took us off the gold standard. But why was this so detrimental to our national economy? Perhaps a brief explanation of the necessity for gold in an economic system is needed.

For an economy to function properly, prices must exist which alert consumers to value and which create a market for the product. Basically, we use the principles of a barter system. Prices must be stable and agreed upon for an exchange to take place. Where does gold fit in? For an economy to progress we must find a way to exchange freely and without lugging our sheep around the marketplace. Enter a stable monetary standard: gold. Gold can be used as a stable currency which can be broken down into units and which is portable. It is also resistant to destructive force. Gold allows us to have a common exchangeable currency. Everyone can agree upon the value of a gold coin and everyone wants them.

Thus an economy built upon the gold standard will remain fairly stable since there is no easy way to devalue the money system. Although, some cases have arisen in history as to governments and individuals attempting to devalue gold coins by "shaving" (removal of some of the gold, imperceptibly while keeping the original notation of price) for the most part the gold standard was and is the most stable form of currency. So why was the gold standard abolished and why are so many people adverse to reinstating the standard in our economic system?

The most obvious reason why socialists like F.D.R. would find fault with the gold standard is the fact that fluctuations in value are hard to procure or control. After America left the gold standard in 1933 a vicious cycle of inflation and deflation began to emerge in our economic system. If no set standard for the currency we have exists then the currency becomes, in effect worthless. If this is the case, why is it that I can still go down to the deli and buy a soda with my dollar? The answer is faith. People trust in the use of dollars as a medium of exchange. Although a dollar in effect is really only a piece of cloth and paper we still value it because of our faith. Government recognizes this fact.

Thus we continue to use dollars as the government continues to print them. But therein lies the fundamental danger behind fiat currency (currency which has no stable standard behind it, government can simply print as many dollars as it wants). If the government can simply print dollars, where is the need or use for them as a medium of exchange. You see, as humans we only value what is scarce. Gold is scarce because there is only a limited amount of it on this earth. When money is backed up by gold then government can only print as much money as there is gold. When we exist on a gold standard people are really only carrying around a 'banknote' which tells them how much gold they own and how much gold they need to spend for a certain item. Paper currency allows for a easier transportation of a larger amount of gold (so we don't have to carry around heavy bags of gold coins).

Thus the value of the dollar is simply dependent upon how much faith people place in the American economic system. These are the precise reasons why we find ourselves in such an economic predicament today. Since there is no check on the government printing of dollars, the real price of the dollar continues to become inflated. The further and further we get away from the gold standard the more and more one dollar of gold will be greater than one dollar bill. This is precisely what happened in Germany during the early 1920s. Hyperinflation occurred as the lower denominations of the German mark became worthless. It became devastating in Germany, with prices doubling every 49 hours. A loaf of bread which was one mark on Monday, cost in the billions a short time later.

Why would a government want to create an unstable currency? The answer is that politicians want to spend money but they do not want to raise taxes. The only want to do this is to print dollars which leads to inflation. When you consider where the funding for a war comes from or have ever seen pictures of the inside of the Federal Reserve Bank you will see the consequences of government action. Inflation is simply an indirect tax which allows government to enslave the populace. If government controls how much a dollar is worth the market no longer determines value.

This is precisely the reason why the Federal Reserve was created and why there are vicious 'boom and bust' cycles in our economic system. Government tries to control currency and exchange through interest rates, inflation and deflation.

With all that said it would seem that we are in for a rude awakening. Perhaps not. The only way for people to realize that we are in an economic crisis is that they must feel it finally in a tangible way. Hyperinflation is rare. The best way to halt government action is to educate voters as to the ills of government economic policy. Education is the key to change. So the next time you take that dollar bill out of your pocket consider if is really worth that much. In fact as you hold it, it will be slowly losing value. Ponder that for a while...

Who is Ron Paul?

2007-10-31T09:46:00.000-04:00

In this instance, what you don't know could hurt you.

As election season rolls around, we are faced once again with the cold hard facts that no one candidate matches our every political or moral view. We feel that we may have to compromise on certain issues in order that the "bad candidate" doesn't get into office. We ponder which issues are of less importance, which ones we can kind of disregard, maybe no one will notice.

But look no further fellow Americans, hope does exist. This election cycle there actually is a candidate running who we can all feel good about and who actually champions many of the core beliefs that conservatives, Christians and libertarians value.

His name is Ron Paul.

This little know congressman from Lake Jackson, Texas has finally garnered a small notice for his libertarian cries amid the roaring of other less conservative candidates. His stances on abortion, the war in Iraq, taxes and government spending and size, makes him the only real viable option for those seeking a worthy presidential candidate.

'But if I vote for Ron Paul and he doesn't win then my vote will have been in vain. And then some candidate like Hillary will take office and we will be worse off than before.'

It is precisely this reasoning which has brought us to our current situation in America. By not standing upon firm principles, voting for what and whom we know is right, we have mired ourselves in a degenerating spiral towards big government, interventionism, and socialism. If more people decided to act out their principles and pull for what they know is right then maybe we would have real change in America. Ben Franklin, George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Patrick Henry weren't afraid of the consequences of standing up for what they believed in. We need to return to the mentality of, 'Let us all hang together or else hang separately.' If we continue to compromise our positions we will never effect real change.

You see, sometimes as Jefferson said, "A little revolution now and then is a good thing." The very thing that may need to occur in our great land is for Hillary to win an election. Then we could finally feel the effects of many economic and social policies which many conservatives and neo-cons champion, just not as much as bleeding heart liberals. Perhaps if more people began to feel the strangling effects of higher income taxes and big government or when enough Americans die in the Iraq quagmire, we will finally wake up and realize that there is no middle ground.

That's why I'm voting for Ron Paul. I see no reason why we shouldn't stand up for our beliefs no matter how oppressive a candidate like Hillary will be. We still have a vote with our congressmen and women. At this point our Supreme Court is probably more of a threat to our liberty than presidential power. For those of you who believe that our current situation in Iraq is necessary and that Ron Paul would make America vulnerable by pulling out from Iraq, well perhaps I should deal with that kind of unfounded nonsense in another post.

The most important ideal we should strive for is a return to constitutional Christian values. That's what Ron Paul stands for. That's what I'm going to stand for. It only takes a small hole in the dam for the whole wall to collapse. If we can but stir the minds of a few this election cycle, perhaps we can start a 'little revolution' if you will, which could free our nation once again from the bonds of an oppressive state.

Economics In One Lesson

2007-10-30T15:58:00.000-04:00

Lessons from Henry Hazlitt...

"Economics is haunted by more fallacies than any other study known to man."

~ Henry Hazlitt

Perhaps our greatest fault as human beings, is our seeming inability to look beyond the edge of our noses for truth and the real consequences behind the change that occurs in our world. This is especially true when we consider the many social and economic policies which are bandied about in congress today. We need look no further than Charley Rangel's new proposed "tax on the rich" to see this type of thought process in action.

It is precisely this reasoning which Hazlitt attempts to explain and refute in his book Economics In One Lesson. The idea of unforeseen or unintended consequences is the driving factor behind his work. It is for this very reason that free-market capitalists urge market control of the economy and small government. When the market is tampered with, we inevitably run aground on some sharp consequence as we try to control the ship by an outside force. Perhaps only a brief perusal of Greek mythology is necessary to bring us back to our senses. We may have as much luck trying to control the market as Phaethon did trying to steer the Chariot of the Sun.

One striking and brutally obvious, yet oft times misunderstood economic concept, illustrates this point well. Tariffs, it is often said, are necessary for the protection of the national producers. In our case, American producers. 'We must have tariffs otherwise American industries will disappear!' Let us first examine several issues behind this economic fallacy.

Perhaps we impose a tariff on foreign imports. Surely the immediate effects of this government action will bring about a rise in the consumption of American production. Humans will naturally tend to buy the cheaper more available product. Thus a tariff ensures that American production can compete and will be propped up as a result of American consumption. This seems well and good. Americans still have the product they desire and American producers are kept in business. Domestic jobs are created because American producers employ large numbers of people. Thus these workers have extra capital (per wages) to buy more and participate in the economy. What a rosy situation.

However, if we look further than company A to the plight of the masses of consumers we will find a very different picture. What might have been a possible reason for the cheaper prices of international products opposed to American products. Perhaps these firms were able to produce the same or better quality product (as an American produce) at a lower cost, thus lowering the price of the product. These posited facts have a very real effect on the American consumer. It may be that since a tariff has been imposed, the consumer will be forced to buy a more expensive product that might possibly be of lower quality. Thus, the consumer must decrease more of his capital than he would otherwise, because he has to accommodate the higher price of the American good. In effect, whatever money the tariff created by creating jobs has placed a burden on consumers elsewhere who have to shoulder the cost of a higher price for an inferior American good.

Further, if efficiency can be considered a legitimate and worthwhile economic goal, then the companies that are creating inferior goods (leading to a higher price, which necessitates a tariff on foreign imports of the same product) are using up resources which could be used elsewhere and more efficiently by another firm for another purpose. Thus, whatever job creation was facilitated in Firm A by the tariff, is washed by the loss of jobs or of no creation of new jobs in another sector due to the lack of resources. Without the use of the resources that Firm A may be using inefficiently another Firm B cannot fully utilize or realize it potential growth.

Yet this is not the only detriment which occurs upon the imposition of a tariff. If we place a tariff on imported goods this means that our citizens will buy less of the international product. What does this mean for the international market. If we limit the supply of our dollars on the market (by not buying international products), international countries and firms will not be able to buy our products because they will have no means of purchasing them. How can they buy from us if we accept dollars and they have no dollars to exchange for goods. This not only hurts the American consumer but it also hurts the producers in our country.

When we consider economic policy a pseudo law which may be considered is that much like matter, wealth is generally never created or destroyed, it is only shifted around and used more efficiently. Perhaps, the idea is that whenever we artificially try to create an advantage for a certain group of individuals others are usually hurt. Only the market can efficiently allocate resources and wealth.

As we can see, even in this small instance, where we may not see a great deal of detriment upon first glance, if we look a little further many unforeseen or unintended consequences may result from slightly tampering with the market system.

In his book, Hazlitt deals with many such fallacies and explores in detail many of the fallacies which have become commonplace and are accepted as necessary economic policy in the global and national market today. Go ahead, check it out it's a great read for a wealth of knowledge. And remember to look past the edge of your nose, you never know what you might see...