Welcome login | signup
Language en es fr
OccupyForum

Forum Post: For Those Of The 99% Truly Serious About Non-Violent Change ... Please Read On !!!

Posted 12 years ago on Jan. 27, 2012, 6:23 p.m. EST by shadz66 (19985)
This content is user submitted and not an official statement

Please : Read ; Consider ; Cogitate & Meditate Upon ...

How Swedes and Norwegians Broke the Power of the ‘1 Percent’,

by George Lakey.

["Waging Nonviolence" http://wagingnonviolence.org/ ] ---

"While many of us are working to ensure that the Occupy movement will have a lasting impact, it’s worthwhile to consider other countries where masses of people succeeded in nonviolently bringing about a high degree of democracy and economic justice. Sweden and Norway, for example, both experienced a major power shift in the 1930s after prolonged nonviolent struggle. They “fired” the top 1 percent of people who set the direction for society and created the basis for something different.

Both countries had a history of horrendous poverty. When the 1 percent was in charge, hundreds of thousands of people emigrated to avoid starvation. Under the leadership of the working class, however, both countries built robust and successful economies that nearly eliminated poverty, expanded free university education, abolished slums, provided excellent health care available to all as a matter of right and created a system of full employment. Unlike the Norwegians, the Swedes didn’t find oil, but that didn’t stop them from building what the latest CIA World Factbook calls “an enviable standard of living.” ( https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/ )

Neither country is a utopia, as readers of the crime novels by Stieg Larsson, Kurt Wallender and Jo Nesbro will know. Critical left-wing authors such as these try to push Sweden and Norway to continue on the path toward more fully just societies. However, as an American activist who first encountered Norway as a student in 1959 and learned some of its language and culture, the achievements I found amazed me. I remember, for example, bicycling for hours through a small industrial city, looking in vain for substandard housing. Sometimes resisting the evidence of my eyes, I made up stories that “accounted for” the differences I saw: “small country,” “homogeneous,” “a value consensus.” I finally gave up imposing my frameworks on these countries and learned the real reason: their own histories.

Then I began to learn that the Swedes and Norwegians paid a price for their standards of living through nonviolent struggle. There was a time when Scandinavian workers didn’t expect that the electoral arena could deliver the change they believed in. They realized that, with the 1 percent in charge, electoral “democracy” was stacked against them, so nonviolent direct action was needed to exert the power for change.

In both countries, the troops were called out to defend the 1 percent; people died. Award-winning Swedish filmmaker Bo Widerberg told the Swedish story vividly in Ådalen 31, which depicts the strikers killed in 1931 and the sparking of a nationwide general strike. {You can read more about this case in an entry by Max Rennebohm in the Global Nonviolent Action Database : http://nvdatabase.swarthmore.edu/content/norwegians-overthrow-capitalist-rule-1931-35 }

The Norwegians had a harder time organizing a cohesive people’s movement because Norway’s small population—about three million—was spread out over a territory the size of Britain. People were divided by mountains and fjords, and they spoke regional dialects in isolated valleys. In the nineteenth century, Norway was ruled by Denmark and then by Sweden; in the context of Europe Norwegians were the “country rubes,” of little consequence. Not until 1905 did Norway finally become independent.

When workers formed unions in the early 1900s, they generally turned to Marxism, organizing for revolution as well as immediate gains. They were overjoyed by the overthrow of the czar in Russia, and the Norwegian Labor Party joined the Communist International organized by Lenin. Labor didn’t stay long, however. One way in which most Norwegians parted ways with Leninist strategy was on the role of violence: Norwegians wanted to win their revolution through collective nonviolent struggle, along with establishing co-ops and using the electoral arena.

In the 1920s strikes increased in intensity. The town of Hammerfest formed a commune in 1921, led by workers councils; the army intervened to crush it. The workers’ response verged toward a national general strike. The employers, backed by the state, beat back that strike, but workers erupted again in the ironworkers’ strike of 1923–24.

The Norwegian 1 percent decided not to rely simply on the army; in 1926 they formed a social movement called the Patriotic League, recruiting mainly from the middle class. By the 1930s, the League included as many as 100,000 people for armed protection of strike breakers—this in a country of only 3 million!

The Labor Party, in the meantime, opened its membership to anyone, whether or not in a unionized workplace. Middle-class Marxists and some reformers joined the party. Many rural farm workers joined the Labor Party, as well as some small landholders. Labor leadership understood that in a protracted struggle, constant outreach and organizing was needed to a nonviolent campaign. In the midst of the growing polarization, Norway’s workers launched another wave of strikes and boycotts in 1928.

The Depression hit bottom in 1931. More people were jobless there than in any other Nordic country. Unlike in the U.S., the Norwegian union movement kept the people thrown out of work as members, even though they couldn’t pay dues. This decision paid off in mass mobilizations. When the employers’ federation locked employees out of the factories to try to force a reduction of wages, the workers fought back with massive demonstrations.

Many people then found that their mortgages were in jeopardy. (Sound familiar?) The Depression continued, and farmers were unable to keep up payment on their debts. As turbulence hit the rural sector, crowds gathered nonviolently to prevent the eviction of families from their farms. The Agrarian Party, which included larger farmers and had previously been allied with the Conservative Party, began to distance itself from the 1 percent; some could see that the ability of the few to rule the many was in doubt.

By 1935, Norway was on the brink. The Conservative-led government was losing legitimacy daily; the 1 percent became increasingly desperate as militancy grew among workers and farmers. A complete overthrow might be just a couple years away, radical workers thought. However, the misery of the poor became more urgent daily, and the Labor Party felt increasing pressure from its members to alleviate their suffering, which it could do only if it took charge of the government in a compromise agreement with the other side.

This it did. In a compromise that allowed owners to retain the right to own and manage their firms, Labor in 1935 took the reins of government in coalition with the Agrarian Party. They expanded the economy and started public works projects to head toward a policy of full employment that became the keystone of Norwegian economic policy. Labor’s success and the continued militancy of workers enabled steady inroads against the privileges of the 1 percent, to the point that majority ownership of all large firms was taken by the public interest. (There is an entry on this case as well at the Global Nonviolent Action Database.)

The 1 percent thereby lost its historic power to dominate the economy and society. Not until three decades later could the Conservatives return to a governing coalition, having by then accepted the new rules of the game, including a high degree of public ownership of the means of production, extremely progressive taxation, strong business regulation for the public good and the virtual abolition of poverty. When Conservatives eventually tried a fling with neoliberal policies, the economy generated a bubble and headed for disaster. (Sound familiar?)

Labor stepped in, seized the three largest banks, fired the top management, left the stockholders without a dime and refused to bail out any of the smaller banks. The well-purged Norwegian financial sector was not one of those countries that lurched into crisis in 2008; carefully regulated and much of it publicly owned, the sector was solid.

Although Norwegians may not tell you about this the first time you meet them, the fact remains that their society’s high level of freedom and broadly-shared prosperity began when workers and farmers, along with middle class allies, waged a nonviolent struggle that empowered the people to govern for the common good."

per ardua ad astra ...

~

[Article from copied under "Fair Use" from : http://wagingnonviolence.org/2012/01/how-swedes-and-norwegians-broke-the-power-of-the-1-percent/ & alt.link : http://www.informationclearinghouse.info/article30364.htm ]

In the Spirit of Solidarity, please disseminate this article and its ideas as widely as you can.

Figuring things out is one of the only freedoms we really have left ! Go Use That Freedom !! Go Figure !!!

267 Comments

267 Comments


Read the Rules
[-] 10 points by epa1nter (4650) from Rutherford, NJ 12 years ago

Excellent article. Thank you.

[-] 1 points by ImNotMe (1488) 4 years ago

Merry Xmas & you're welcome. Hope U are well & still read here. + FYI, NB:

pax, amor et lux ...

[-] 1 points by ImNotMe (1488) 4 years ago

On Feb.28,1986, Olof Palme, Prime Minister of Sweden was assassinated. The whys & wherefores of his murder are still discussed but who & what he was deserves reflection too. Olof Palme was perhaps the last Social Democratic leader to believe in a world beyond Capitalism. Please remember him here..

''The Swedish model has provided an inspiration for left-wingers across the world. Our strong unions, our comprehensive welfare state and gender equality - have made Sweden a blueprint. In the United States, Bernie Sanders frequently references the Nordic welfare states and their free healthcare and free university education as a path to follow.

''For millions of Swedish socialists - (Bernie) Sanders is a role model and an icon. His contributions to the debates and his speeches are distributed on social media and taken up by celebrities & his proud embrace of the term ‘democratic socialism’ still touches the hearts of social democrats, and everyone else who dreams of policies which aim to change the world.

''The morning after Palme’s murder, March 1st, 1986 - I woke to find my devastated parents comforting each other on the sofa in our tiny living room. They wept uncontrollably in the dim light. The TV was on. Strangely, I recall it as black & white, like a photograph. “They got him,” said my mother, without saying who she meant.

''There were many who at that moment, felt that Sweden would never be the same again. We now know that they were right. Thirty-four years have now passed & we still have no idea who murdered our Prime Minister. But we know who mourns him. And we know who maintains his tradition.''

sic fugit gloria mundi - ergo caveat!

[-] 1 points by ImNotMe (1488) 4 years ago

''Economic Effect of Corona Virus Could Be Revolutionary''! by Dr. Paul Craig Roberts:

multum in parvo!

[-] 1 points by ImNotMe (1488) 4 years ago

Re. tRUMP's Tulsa rally ...

respice; adspice; prospice ...

[-] 1 points by beautifulworld (23824) 4 years ago

Trump Tulsa rally super spread Covid fears.

https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/elections/2020/06/19/trumps-tulsa-rally-stirs-fear-covid-19-super-spread-event/3214167001/

And, I thought the government was supposed to protect our general welfare. Silly me.

[-] 1 points by ImNotMe (1488) 4 years ago

"Trump’s Arizona Rally Confirms His CV19 Policy Is Driven Only by His Ego!" by Wm.River-Pitt:

respice; adspice; prospice ...

[-] 1 points by beautifulworld (23824) 4 years ago

Half of Oklahoma is Native American reservation, deems the Supreme Court.

"U.S. Supreme Court deems half of Oklahoma a Native American reservation"

https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-court-oklahoma/u-s-supreme-court-deems-half-of-oklahoma-a-native-american-reservation-idUSKBN24A268

"The decision means that for the first time much of eastern Oklahoma is legally considered reservation land. More than 1.8 million people live in the land at issue, including roughly 400,000 in Tulsa, Oklahoma’s second-largest city."

[-] 2 points by ImNotMe (1488) 4 years ago

"“Unrest” Is not the enemy. Fascism Is!" (Audio) by Kelly Hayes:

multum in parvo ...

[-] 1 points by beautifulworld (23824) 4 years ago

Happy Indigenous People's Day!

These states are ditching Columbus Day to observe Indigenous Peoples' Day instead:

https://www.cnn.com/2020/10/12/us/indigenous-peoples-day-2020-states-trnd/index.html

"The fascist roots of Columbus Day"

https://commonwealthmagazine.org/arts-and-culture/the-fascist-roots-of-columbus-day/.

"Columbus Day and Pope’s Columbus Day Parade were both founded with fascist ideologies in mind, which was clear and ever-present at the New York City parades prior to World War II. At the 1936 parade, according to one account, prominent politicians were implored by anti-fascists not to attend, as “local fascist papers have announced that uniformed Fascisti will participate in military formation.” In 1937, when FDR declared Columbus Day a federal holiday, spectators at the subsequent parade allegedly cheered loudly and raised their hands in the infamous fascist salute when Italy’s fascist anthem, “Giovinezza,” was played. The next year’s parade, the New York Times reported, saw spectators shouting “Viva Mussolini” along the route."

My goodness. I had no idea. Just goes to show you how there are always things to learn....

[-] 1 points by ImNotMe (1488) 4 years ago

"Trump Has Been Quietly Setting the Stage for an Authoritarian Second Term" - by Branco Marcetic:

CAVEAT!

[-] 1 points by beautifulworld (23824) 3 years ago

Eerie read now: https://jacobinmag.com/2020/10/donald-trump-authoritarian-portland-antifa-military

Trump certainly tried all means to secure a second term and though he failed, what he stands for and those that back him have not disappeared.

[-] 1 points by ImNotMe (1488) 3 years ago

"Eerie" indeed! But also look what The USA's 99% have a real chance to finally achieve for the future..

per aspera ad astra ...

[-] 1 points by beautifulworld (23824) 3 years ago

Bernie is now Chair of the Budget Committee, a very powerful position.

https://www.counterpunch.org/2021/02/12/bernie-on-the-budget-committee/

"If Sanders can prevent the Dems from reneging on hiking the minimum wage this will be a stupendous flex of working-class muscle. Raising the minimum wage is wildly popular, especially with people who toil for less than $15 per hour."

"Those discouraged that Bernie Sanders was not appointed labor secretary can take solace in his role as chair of the senate budget committee. There he can accomplish far more for working people than he ever could at the labor department."

[-] 1 points by ImNotMe (1488) 3 years ago

YES ... "If Sanders can prevent the Dems from reneging on hiking the minimum wage ... this will be a stupendous flex of working-class muscle. Raising the minimum wage is wildly popular, especially with people who toil for less than $15 per hour." + fyi, please NB:

dum spiro, spero ...

[-] 1 points by ImNotMe (1488) 4 years ago

"It’s time for Centrist Democrats to Stop Whining About Black Lives Matters Protests ... and start recognizing that Black voters literally saved the election." from ...

omnia causa fiunt!

[-] 0 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

You're welcome + For further insight into the plight of some of the 99%, please also see :

fiat justitia ...

[-] 1 points by beautifulworld (23824) 7 years ago

1 in 7 Americans are on food stamps to this day, and many of them work and they are shamed into silence because they're told it's their fault. Even though better jobs don't exist. United States of Corporations gives us poverty, racism, ill health, poor education, broken infrastructure, crappy wages and job insecurity.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ld6fAO4idaI

[-] 1 points by ImNotMe (1488) 5 years ago

''After decades of rightwing dominance, a transatlantic movement of leftwing economists is building a practical alternative to Neoliberalism.'' from ...

dum spiro, spero ...

[-] 1 points by beautifulworld (23824) 4 years ago

Democratic Socialism explained by MSNBC.

https://www.msnbc.com/velshi-ruhle/watch/what-is-democratic-socialism-1266192963803

Pretty good layperson explanation of Democratic Socialism.

Norway, Canada, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, France, etc - all of those countries and more have put checks and balances on the deleterious effects of capitalism and have shown that people are much happier when safety nets are in place to catch people when they fall.

And, people can still get rich if that is important to them!

The economy with a democratic socialist structure works for all people because inequality and poverty are eliminated thus allowing all people to thrive.

[-] 1 points by ImNotMe (1488) 4 years ago

Pete The Cheat ''says ... socialism will further divide the country'' BUT, ''a year ago, he made the case that embracing the label was smart politically as it moved the needle and set progressives up to win for 20-30 years''! So wtf changed? This Manchurian Candidate .. JUST CAN NOT BE TRUSTED!

cave - anguis in herba!

[-] 1 points by ImNotMe (1488) 4 years ago

But "All I Want For Christmas Is The Truth''! by William Rivers Pitt:

et veritas vos liberabit ...

[-] 1 points by ImNotMe (1488) 4 years ago

"France Enters Second Month Of National Strike"! ... by Madeleine Freeman:

per aspera ad astra ...

[-] 1 points by ImNotMe (1488) 5 years ago

''Corbyn - A Mainstream Scandinavian Social Democrat ...''

fiat lux ...

[-] 2 points by ImNotMe (1488) 5 years ago

"If 'Democratic Socialism' is so bad .. why is Norway so great?" ... by Ryan Cooper:

multum in parvo ...

[-] 1 points by ImNotMe (1488) 5 years ago

''To get out of the mess we're in, we need a new story that explains the present and guides the future, says author George Monbiot. Drawing on findings from psychology, neuroscience and evolutionary biology, he offers a new vision for society built around our fundamental capacity for altruism and cooperation. This contagiously optimistic talk will make you rethink the possibilities for our shared future.'' - from ...

dum spiro, spero ...

[-] 1 points by beautifulworld (23824) 5 years ago

The toxic neoliberal legacy of Theresa May.

https://metro.co.uk/2019/07/21/jeremy-corbyn-slams-toxic-legacy-left-behind-by-theresa-may-10434459/

Jeremy Corbyn for Prime Minister, now!

[-] 1 points by ImNotMe (1488) 5 years ago

Anglophone US/UK Crapitalism sucks for the vast majority of The 99%! Embedded in your link was this:

''In the wake of May, a Labour Government is needed to end austerity, resolve Brexit chaos and address the climate emergency, writes Jeremy Corbyn'' And furthermore, please do try to closely consider this ...

spero meliora ...

[-] 1 points by beautifulworld (23824) 5 years ago

A no deal Brexit is a Trump Brexit according to Jeremy Corbyn.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6fQxafj1KUc

Boris Johnson will dance to Trump's tune by handing over a no deal Brexit leaving the UK open to being raided by American money.

[-] 1 points by ImNotMe (1488) 5 years ago

''Johnson thinks a ‘culture war’ will win crucial working-class votes. He’s wrong'', by Lyn Hanley:

''Most leave supporters aren't pining for mythical lost community. They just want a better quality of life.''

Also fyi: “People talk about politics all the time. But the Democratic establishment keeps failing upwards. That’s why they are so scared of someone like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez . She’s a powerful symbol of a different way of doing things.” from ...

per aspera ad astra ...

[-] -2 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

'Hoover Up Kaputalism' ?!!! I'm Sick Of It !! Long time, no see - hp u r ok !

at spes non fracta ...

[-] 7 points by beautifulworld (23824) 11 years ago

We are always learning, and Norway and Sweden provide excellent examples of how to move forward, as does Iceland.

Also, I wonder what happened to epa1nter? He was an excellent contributor here.

[-] 5 points by shadz66 (19985) 11 years ago

"Why I Am a Socialist" by Chris Hedges :

Thanx for this revival of blasts from the past bw, it has made me feel rather wistful and nostalgic, lolol.

Solidarity for a bw for all & @ #S17 & as for 'epa1nter', I come across him on LiveStream so he is ok.

pax et lux ; nunc et semper ...

[-] 6 points by beautifulworld (23824) 11 years ago

"The corporation is designed to make money without regard to human life, the social good or impact on the environment." Chris Hedges. Pretty much says it all.

And, really? You've run across epa1nter? That's cool.

[-] 5 points by shadz66 (19985) 11 years ago

''Mikhail Bakunin predicted the catastrophic breakdown of the capitalist order, something we are likely to witness in our lifetimes, and new autonomous worker federations rising up out of the chaos. Pyotr Kropotkin, like Proudhon, believed in an evolutionary process that would hammer out the new society. Emma Goldman, along with Kropotkin, came to be very wary of both the efficacy of violence and the revolutionary potential of the masses. “The mass,” Goldman wrote bitterly toward the end of her life in echoing Marx, “clings to its masters, loves the whip, and is the first to cry Crucify!”

''The revolutionists of history counted on a mobilized base of enlightened industrial workers. The building blocks of revolt, they believed, relied on the tool of the general strike, the ability of workers to cripple the mechanisms of production. Strikes could be sustained with the support of political parties, strike funds and union halls. Workers without these support mechanisms had to replicate the infrastructure of parties and unions if they wanted to put prolonged pressure on the bosses and the state. But now, with the decimation of the U.S. manufacturing base, along with the dismantling of our unions and opposition parties, we will have to search for different instruments of rebellion.

''We must develop a revolutionary theory that is not reliant on the industrial or agrarian muscle of workers. Most manufacturing jobs have disappeared, and, of those that remain, few are unionized. Our family farms have been destroyed by agro-businesses. Monsanto and its Faustian counterparts on Wall Street rule. They are steadily poisoning our lives and rendering us powerless. The corporate leviathan, which is global, is freed from the constraints of a single nation-state or government. Corporations are beyond regulation or control. Politicians are too anemic, or more often too corrupt, to stand in the way of the accelerating corporate destruction.

''Occupy articulated the concerns of the majority of citizens. Most of the citizenry detests Wall Street and big banks. It does not want more wars. It needs jobs. It is disgusted with the subservience of elected officials to corporate power. It wants universal health care. It worries that if the fossil fuel industry is not stopped, there will be no future for our children. And the state is using all its power to stymie any movement that expresses these concerns.''

I excerpt the above in reply and on a lietmotif of Chris Hedges, from the excellent :

The link to the documentary is 'HD' and 144m but is arguably THE Definitive doc. on the matter and I append it here with Hedges' most recent article on your prompt - and on my all time favourite post as it fits so well here. The doc. methodically goes on to prove the psychopathic, anti-human nature of modern Corporations which gained so much from 'War' and how they usurped The 14th Amendment then and of course now, also have The SCOTUS' treacherous 'Citizens United' decision and I recommend both links.

Thanx for the bump & on the matter of 'epa1nter' - yep, came across him more than once in the manic chat of LiveStream on #S17 and on occasions before that too. He lives and breaths and continues The 99% Fight elsewhere and in other forms. We all do what we can do, where, if and how we can - I hope !

Onwards and Upwards & Solidarity 4 a bw 4 all, wherever we may be on this Good Earth ..~*~..

dum spiro, spero ....

[-] 8 points by beautifulworld (23824) 11 years ago

''Occupy articulated the concerns of the majority of citizens. Most of the citizenry detests Wall Street and big banks. It does not want more wars. It needs jobs. It is disgusted with the subservience of elected officials to corporate power. It wants universal health care. It worries that if the fossil fuel industry is not stopped, there will be no future for our children. And the state is using all its power to stymie any movement that expresses these concerns."

From Chris Hedges, and worth repeating, thanks.

[-] 4 points by shadz66 (19985) 11 years ago

Solidarity and many thanx for a great Hedges quote and here's further insight into 'Why Occupy' :

''Former President Jimmy Carter said Monday that the income gap in the United States has increased to the point where members of the middle class resemble the Americans who lived in poverty when he occupied the White House.''

fiat justitia ruat caelum ...

[-] 1 points by ImNotMe (1488) 7 years ago

''... Plans to Occupy Trump''?! What ''Left'' is he talking about?!! Liberals?!!!

multum in parvo ...

[-] 1 points by ImNotMe (1488) 7 years ago

Also by George Lakey, consider ...

ad iudicium ...

[-] 1 points by beautifulworld (23824) 7 years ago

Social democracy really isn't that radical. It just puts human beings first.

Occupy has always been about putting people first.

And, the Danish economic model does just that and is something the world should still look too as the Danes are pretty happy people.

https://wagingnonviolence.org/feature/denmark-nordic-model-economy-happiness/

"The Social Democrats came up with a vision adopting Keynesian stimulation for the macro-economy. The vision flatly rejected austerity. It also rejected insurance and philanthropy as the solutions to misfortune and poverty. The Social Democrats turned decisively toward universal services financed by the government through progressive taxation."

[-] 1 points by ImNotMe (1488) 7 years ago

The SCOTUS perverting 14th Amendment of US Constitution, & granting USA's Pathologically Parasitic Corporations - Legal Personhood, via the obscenity of the Scalia Court's ''Citizens United'' decision, has totally obviated the US Constitution and enabled a de facto, rolling Crypto-Fascist Coup d'Etat in U$A!!!

Gen. Smedley Butler alluded to these darker forces in US Society when he was approached to carry out a Coup against FDR & one of the progenitors of the next level Neoliberalism Corporate Coup was Lewis Powell and his infamous yet barely discussed pro-Corporation ''memo'':

So yes .. ''Social democracy really isn't that radical. It just puts human beings first" UNTIL and UNLESS Natural Born Human Beings become usurped by Legalistic Entities that ... can not die; have kids; worry about the future - unless it's a matter of Corp.Profits; have no sense of compassion for humans or care about Earth's Environment or accounts for Capitalism's Externalities!!! By any political science measure therefore - USA is indeed a Fascist State but it has a highly tuned method of deluding people that it's a ''democracy''!! It has to be fkn STOPPED - no matter how long it takes!

Thanx for excellent & important excerpt in your reply above and I will draw breath .. before I explode in fury at the truth of the above - by leaving this link here for later perusal:

fiat lux et fiat justitia ruat caelum ...

[-] 2 points by beautifulworld (23824) 7 years ago

"Although money and banking textbooks say that all interest (and fees) are a compensation for risk, any banker who actually takes a risk is quickly fired. Banks don’t take risks. That’s what the governments are for. (Socializing the risk, privatizing the profits.) Anticipating that the U.S. economy may be unable to recover under the weight of the junk mortgages and other bad debts that the Obama administration left on the books in 2008, banks insisted that the government guarantee all student debt. They also insisted that the government guarantees the financial gold-mine buried in such indebtedness: the late fees that accumulate. So whether students actually succeed in becoming wage-earners or not, the banks will receive payments in today’s emerging fictitious “as if” economy. The government will pay the banks “as if” there is actually a recovery."

''From Debt Peons To Wage Slaves'', by Dr. Michael Hudson: http://www.informationclearinghouse.info/47174.htm

Hmm. Pretty much tells the whole story of how friggin' ripped off we are.

Thank you to Michael Hudson for his dedication to the people and his ability to explain economics in such simple terms.

[-] 1 points by ImNotMe (1488) 7 years ago

Dr. Michael Hudson tells it like it is, like almost nobody else. He's a Prophet railing against Profit Over People & Corporate Oligarchy & Bankers. The TYT Journalist, Nomiki Konst .. is another such person BUT within the DNC and Dem Party Machine .. IF U can even believe - such a person can even exist!

veritas vos liberabit ...

[-] 2 points by beautifulworld (23824) 6 years ago

Millennials do not identify as capitalists.

“19% of Americans aged 18 to 29 identified themselves as capitalists; only 42% claimed they support the economic system.”

The fact that less than a quarter of young Americans acknowledge being capitalists serves as a reflection of dissatisfaction with the state of the country, both economically and with the people making the policies."

From https://www.alternet.org/economy/millennials-and-capitalism-just-dont-mix

"Milennials and Capitalism just don't mix"

When they take over, this ship will turn around. Time....

[-] 1 points by elf3 (4203) 6 years ago

im going to generalize in my experience with a rant

...working with them = Kardashianite newest product phone zappo addicts whose greatest wish is to travel be rich and famous with a mansion. Cut throat little wanna be baby boomers without the baby sice they want to be the only little spoiled baby and the boys all want to be vc capatalists...and whatever race they all hate taxes and blame "hippies" like me who they bait and size up talking like morons about voting for Trump (Im working at the reception desk! Iike I'm singing kumbaya as they pass giving them peace signs um yeahhh ok) "mmm please order and go get me a fro yo from that amazing new chain store that kicked out that mom and pop"...they probably checked off any box because they don't care about all that heavy stuff unless it involves seeing Fico..."that girl at the desk reminds me of the unibomber ...ugh politics ha ha" the worst part is boomers eat it up they admire their wish to abolish ssi, and how they despise underdogs who work hard because hard work is " for stupid people and losers" (lazy as a goal)... float by and get degrees with mom and dads money and flaunt that as they ask why you chose to be a secretary not even thinking it is just my day job asshole or that maybe I'm working toward something else dushead...oh work you don't get it, and how they get ahead through back stabbing and manipulation... and then they promote them....oh flashback bad times sorry

It gags me watching boomers live vicariously through them kissing their asses and falling all over them...I think they are the same mental age...teenager

oh all that savings they supposedly have ...if they can't get good paying jobs and still live at home...are they counting the househokd savings in that survey? It makes no sense unless they are in the one percent. They are also the highest consumers so...? Again doesn't add up.

Now if you're on here you probably aren't like them and sorry for lumping you in but... tell me where the sam hell are you because I never actually meet anyone who cares or talks about this except those annoying rich liberal women who want to rescue all the drug lords that commit shootings and deal opiods and come and go all night near my home yet drive a spanking new Lexus? Sorry annoying lady who still lives in the sixties...i dont live in your posh gated community since I'm not like you but you can't see past the fact I'm white to realize I'm also broke I haven't resorted to being a king pin yet. But if I do you think maybe she will help get me some job training or college or some go fund me money for my dreams? Fuck that lady too.

[-] 1 points by beautifulworld (23824) 6 years ago

Comparing baby boomer wealth and income to that of millennials at same point in life is pretty damning:

http://www.businessinsider.com/comparing-millennials-to-baby-boomers-2017-1

"Millennials have accumulated about half as many assets as the same age group had in 1989. They also make about $10,000 less on average."

White people are not doing well either:

"Median income declined dramatically for white Americans, less so for African-Americans. Latinos, who started with a significant disadvantage in 1989, saw gains." Perhaps the Trump factor.

"Young adults with debt and a degree today make about the same as young adults with no degree in 1989."

Psychologically, perhaps some millennials try to avoid recognition of said facts and certainly, one percenters with parents willing to help don't need to pay any attention to those facts and probably are spoiled brats.

In the end, millennials have it pretty bad economically. Homeownership, for instance, is so out of reach that this article pokes fun at criticisms of millennials' spending and savings habits:

https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2017/nov/15/buy-home-stop-eating-young-people-deposit-budget-save

White upper class women in America, those that fought for Hillary Clinton are, in my mind, the biggest problem in America right now because they fight for a status quo that fails millions, but protects them. I know a lady who went to the womens' march last weekend and she was telling me about her activity and how "shocked" she was to see so many women in poverty marching. She was telling me about their poorly clothes etc and it said more about her than them, that she's been living in a bubble, unconscious of the suffering outside her own zip code.

The reality is that life for the majority of Americans is very difficult right now.

https://www.nationofchange.org/2017/10/16/yes-half-americans-near-poverty-heres-evidence/?platform=hootsuite

It's easy to get angry with one another, but the truth is we are mostly all in the same boat and we need to fight together by meeting with and talking to each other so that we do not feel alienated from one another. Alienation is exactly what capitalism wants us to do.

[-] 1 points by elf3 (4203) 6 years ago

I want to say you are right...just some thoughts here but recently I've been studying how decent good people tend to project their empathy onto others. I honestly have started to rethink benefit of the doubt thinking. I've come to realize some people don't operate that way and it can be especially harmful if that person is a sociopath or narcissist to presume they think the same and feel compassion. It enables them to easily control and manipulate. I think it is why this movement went under and why liberals are currently being bullied by republicans. Maybe our differences are at the heart of this battle. It comes down to honesty and values. I'm not saying to give up compassion ...but like trust I think we must guard our compassion for those who deserve it and not presume everyone has good intentions just because we do. I don't know how to explain this fully yet. Are there those who take advantage of liberals for selfish gains...for sure. Would some people use this movement as a platform just to get more wealth and material things. Maybe the nuances of human behavior matter. Because people lie and don't wear a meter that lets others know...some are good at it. I guess I'm just pointing out what I see a lot....i know it is from my own experience. I see a lot of day to day bullies out here in the world and I see them in the larger societal picture too in corporations and government. They seem to be winning.

Remember the movie Rocky? Well society used to honor the underdog and working class and look sorta down on rich people. That has all flipped now. I'm trying to figure out why and how it happened in my short lifetime. Young people are typically the ones to change society. And based on the current changes ...I'm like what is going on? It isn't good. The new normal or at least American culture seems to be a bossy extroverted narcissist mean girl/ or boy shopaholic focused on material things. And I think if you look at how society is operating...it isn't too hard to realize there must be a reason.Too many people have embraced materialism. And the stats are saying that is the millenials. And unless we call out this ugly trend...I don't think it will change. There needs to be some shame in this regard. Currently they think it makes them cool...players...kardashian...whatever. so I like to talk about it. Because we can pretend it is all fine and things are great but we know that isn't the case. Greed isn't good. Which is not to say it doesn't win. Sadly it often does. In America winning matters. It is almost the motto now ...Winnning...no matter how you do it...and it means beating others. Winner /loser culture. So how do we change that idea in a country obsessed with being better, winning, and showing it off? Where do we start? Observation.

And they could afford housing if they demanded rent control which would lower rent and get all the damn lanlord corporations out of the housing market bidding against working class turning everything into a rental...but they all want to own property and envision themselves as landlords. Their numbers are huge...but they fight from the rich guy perspective. Or their boomer parents own rental properties which is how they have undocumented savings and trustfunds? Ugh

[-] 1 points by beautifulworld (23824) 6 years ago

It is the very ethos of American society that has to change. I agree with you. It's a very tall order and sometimes, I think, not very possible. But if we really think it's not possible, we wouldn't be here talking about it, right?

A long program of Neoliberalism, Capitalism, Consumerism, Advertising, brain washing, etc., has got us to this place. Love of stuff. Love of winning, as you say. And, all so that the rich can get richer while the wannabe masses drool in admiration. Just sickening.

I watched the Olympics last night, you know the bit when the teams march into the stadium and honestly, I felt embarrassed for how arrogant the Americans seemed. No humility.

We have to teach manners, humility, morals, tolerance, generosity, philosophy, poetry, even, and from an early age so that people learn that life is not just about how much stuff you can acquire, it is about something much deeper.

We can actually create a society where people care about one another rather than constantly competing with one another. This is not the goal of the oligarchs, however, and yes, at the moment they seem to be winning. "Seem" to being the critical word because is it sustainable? The death rate in America is climbing, suicides and drug use are up. Why? Because the psychological poison the masses have been fed is finally starting to kill them.

I have to believe in better and that the revolution is around the corner....

[-] 1 points by grapes (5232) 6 years ago

Karl Marx advocated for scientific materialism. I contend that most people are indeed craving for materialistic satisfactions worldwide. This craving is not necessarily bad per sé because it's a very dominant motivating force behind what we call "human progress."

The central issue is the embracing of materialism without higher human ends. To be rich is NOT a Sin but placing rocks in others' paths to make them stumble so as to enslave them IS a Sin. You may have noticed that I have brought in the idea of Sin from Christianity. Yes, there are indeed higher human ends that we can and should strive for. We should long for being one with "God," not begging for Him to descend to us but to ascend our souls to fellow with Him. In millennia's searching, studying, researching, and re-studying, we have NEVER found "God" outside of the physical world. My hypothesis is that "God" cannot exist outside of the physical world because everything is physical [configurations] so seeking for what is outside of everything amounts to seeking for nothing. That's the real reason why we have NEVER succeeded even after millennia of effort. We were chasing nothing. We kept on saying @2:29 that "God" is beyond what we have known, beyond the horizon when we cannot go beyond "it" because a "new" horizon emerges to replace "the old one" as we go along.

The ancient Greeks were GREAT (One Corinthian, "too" Corinthian, Ulysses - free the Corinthian), not because their mythology explained the physical world very well, but because they strove for many hypotheses and developed them as possible explanations. Centuries later, Galileo embarked on making Science a Quantitative endeavor that has made the West materially Great. How did Galileo support himself while he was making his breakthroughs. Yes, it was the bankers of obscure (and probably lowly) origin(s) with a fortune to patronize him.

Hmm, what did or what will Jeff do, now that he's the apparently wealthiest man? Hoard $$$ and badger governments for tax expenditures? Or will there be antitrust legal actions just as before for Microsoft? Is Jeff still single as Bill was? If yes, the "long-armed (去偷手臂要長, 去搶膽子要大。), brave or foolhardy on branches Davidian, tree-swingingly strong, and winsome" Orangutan can direct him to a good solution. Maybe even a hole-in-one! A squirrel scented with manafort can lure a pussy up this tree. Aren't we all New Yorkers? Ja, ja, da gibt es unsere verblüffende Heimat - @2:57, auf der linken Seite ein paar Blocks nördlich (463 West Street of Manhattan) Experimentierplatz der Materiewelle, Gasausbreitungsbarriermaterielle Grundlage des Manhattan-Projektes , und Erfindungsplatz des ersten Transistors. @8:00, der Bodendrache ist bereit, Dich lebendig zu dampfen - unsere Infrastruktur stinkt aber trotz alledem besuchst Du noch?

Quantum theory (through its researched and engineered human-ended progeny, the transistor {NOT the abstinence-only sex-educated cisistor Commando-in-Mischief using up Texass toilet paper}, spawned the modern economy) which underlies a great part of today's economy grew out of the intoxicating bubbles and alcohols (e.g., Otto Warmbier) of the Carlsberg beer fortune (in case of war with DPRK, our troops will drop trillions of little paper strips with the name of the great leader all over DPRK in lieu of land mines, chant it incessantly, take photographs of any DPRK soldier defiling these sacred strips, and send them to him via Whitehead Pimple Service - an Asia-based subsidiary whose parent company, the U.S. Pissing {after zuviel inkompressibel Bier, it's Warm, of course} Service, would be too busy with processing our civilians' change-of-address forms).

Backing every great man is a fortune fending off the necessity of satisfying the man's basic needs. To be great, one MUST be at least a little bit rich in the sense that all of one's basic needs have been taken care of so one has the leisure for discovering and making "breakthroughs." Of course, by "breakthroughs" I'm not referring to the aristocratic invention of the game of golf in which a sexually frustrated man could satisfy his need symbolically by getting his balls into a new hole with the minimal number of strokes (butterfly, back, breast, crawl, etc.) I think I know why Trump owns golf courses. He's the fluoridated kingty David of Whacko, Texass.

[-] 1 points by beautifulworld (23824) 6 years ago

The S-word: how young Americans fell in love with socialism

"Young Americans blame capitalism for crises in housing, healthcare and falling wages. Once demonised, the word ‘socialism’ is back as a new political movement takes root."

https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2017/sep/02/socialism-young-americans-bernie-sanders

And, "Millennials aren't satisfied with capitalism — and might prefer a socialist country, studies find"

http://www.miamiherald.com/news/nation-world/national/article182765121.html

Sweeeet! Hope springs eternal.

[-] 1 points by ImNotMe (1488) 6 years ago

Young Americans aren't infected with their parents' & grandparents' prejudice & myopia. Ergo, they respond to Bernie. Moreover - the young & not so young can see where venal RW GOP & GOPlite, Dems have now brought the U$A to! Eg. consider Paul 'Piece o'Shit, Koch Slave' Ryan ...

cave - anguis in herba ...

[-] 1 points by beautifulworld (23824) 5 years ago

Bernie Sanders, socialist, most popular politician in America has recorded an announcement to kick off his 2020 Presidential bid.

https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/430356-bernie-sanders-records-announcement-video-ahead-of-possible-2020-bid

Please, let's hope he goes third party and leaves the Democrats who will only work against him, behind.

As of January 10, 2019 registered voters are as follows:

39% Independent

25% Republican

34% Democrat

https://news.gallup.com/poll/15370/party-affiliation.aspx

[-] 1 points by flip (7101) 7 years ago

It also rejected insurance and philanthropy as the solutions to misfortune and poverty. - nice

[-] 1 points by beautifulworld (23824) 7 years ago

Philanthropy is just the oligarch/elite's way of patting themselves on the back and getting themselves to "heaven". No one should be at the mercy of anyone else's benevolence imo, and no one needs to be. There is plenty of money to go around.

Insurance, which the wealthy can afford much more easily than your average poor person, if it's not for profit, might have a place, but surely, enriching some because catastrophe has hit others is a little sick if you really think about it. Again, my opinion.

[-] 1 points by flip (7101) 7 years ago

your opinions are right on. once again! i get very annoyed when the gates and clintons charities are discussed in glowing terms

[-] 1 points by beautifulworld (23824) 7 years ago

We're all human, in the end.

Nice little story about some Kurds that have settled in a small Irish town. Sadly, I bet most Irish Americans wouldn't understand this solidarity:

https://www.nytimes.com/2017/09/25/world/europe/ireland-kurdish-refugees.html?mcubz=3

"But it took tragedy for the Azizi family and the rest of the Kurdish community to know they had found a true home with their new Irish neighbors.

In March 2012, Jalal Azizi, Jabar’s twin, was swimming with friends in the Shannon river during a rare warm snap when he got into difficulty and drowned. The whole town was shaken. Shops shut their doors and residents lined the road to pay their respects as the 21-year-old’s funeral cortege passed by."

[-] 1 points by flip (7101) 7 years ago

some people get it - i don't understand those who don't.

[-] 1 points by beautifulworld (23824) 7 years ago

Imagine how different the world would be if more people could open their hearts and minds. Hearts being more important, likely.

[-] 1 points by flip (7101) 7 years ago

i do think that most people have their heart in the right place. most people do not watch a movie and cheer for the corporate shit or the child abuser or racist. they do not have the facts and that is by design

[-] 1 points by beautifulworld (23824) 7 years ago

I agree that most people are inherently good. Just many are dumb and some are not good and those people seem to have the loudest voices. Anyway, we forge on. I hope our Alaskan friend is okay. Let us know if you hear from him.

[-] 2 points by MattLHolck (16833) from San Diego, CA 11 years ago

people don't need jobs

they need money for food and rent

[-] 5 points by shadz66 (19985) 11 years ago

Statutory Basic Living Income For All !!! Why not ?!!

Money ?! What it is it ?!! Who creates it and how ?!!!

Further to ''The Corporation'', please also consider :

'Usurious Compound Interest' is the key to our enslavement and root of the problem. It is an explicitly parasitic mechanism of 'Capital and Wealth Extraction and Accumulation' and underpins The 'Hoover Up Crapitalism' which we now labour under and chaff against !!

The US-FED & 'Bank England' et al should be an arms of The Democratic Nation and NOT 'The Cartel of Private Banking Corporations' which is clearly the case now !!!

ad iudicium ...

[-] 2 points by MattLHolck (16833) from San Diego, CA 11 years ago

that money could be taxed from where it collects

if people had money , others would work to get that money

[-] 5 points by shadz66 (19985) 11 years ago

Tax wealth NOT income !!! Tax Corporations Properly NOT individuals !! Reclaim Democracy Now - Put People Before Profits ! Further to my link to 'The Corporation' doc. film & links above, further consider :

radix omnium malorum est cupiditas ...

[-] 2 points by MattLHolck (16833) from San Diego, CA 11 years ago

unfortunately it is the corps that care more about manipulating money than actual product

[-] 5 points by shadz66 (19985) 11 years ago

''Capitalism is now a cult, and Jamie Dimon is the self-appointed leader of the 'cult of capitalism'!” & The Financialisation of all human endeavours is Killing The Planet and destroying our basic humanity too !!!

''There's a hole in my bucket, dear Liza, dear Liza - a hole ; Well fix it dear Henry, dear Henry, well fix it'' !! Hope you know this kids' circular song otherwise you'll be left scratching your head ;-) Solidarity and IF you haven't seen it I Strongly Recommend the You-Tube link above.

e tenebris, lux ...

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

epa1nter? chased away by the site attackers.

[-] 4 points by beautifulworld (23824) 11 years ago

He was so even keeled, polite and knowledgeable.

[-] 3 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

And Trevor? chased away by war mongers . . . um . . . also the site attackers ( the war mongers ).

[-] 3 points by MattLHolck (16833) from San Diego, CA 11 years ago

War mongers haven't chased me away

why should I believe Trever was chased away ?

[-] 4 points by gnomunny (6819) from St Louis, MO 11 years ago

In all probability Trevor wasn't chased away by anyone, Matt.

[-] 4 points by MattLHolck (16833) from San Diego, CA 11 years ago

that's how how i figure

[-] 1 points by GirlFriday (17435) 11 years ago

Why should anyone give a fuck what you believe?

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

Ummm for 1 thing you're not Trevor - for another thing you're not continually attacked for having an anti-war stance. BTW - Do you have a stance? Any Stance?

[-] 4 points by MattLHolck (16833) from San Diego, CA 11 years ago

like a statue NO WAR

[-] 1 points by GirlFriday (17435) 11 years ago

And that's the only sentence that you have been able to put together. Well, kind of. Good for you.

[-] -3 points by zimvind (-157) 11 years ago

What alternative reality website were you on? I never saw Trevor being attacked over his anti war stance. That's one thing I think most all of us here agree on, all of us except Zendog who wants to arm AQ and kill Assad.

[-] 0 points by gnomunny (6819) from St Louis, MO 11 years ago

The only person here that gave Trevor a hard time was VQ and the Dem shills, because Trevor called out both sides over their war-mongering. That's a fact.

And nobody chased him away either. This recent bullshit about people being chased away is just that. Bullshit. Most people left here for the simple reason that nothing gets accomplished here, it's mainly just talking in circles.

Trevor is young still, and has a pretty good life. THAT'S why he isn't here right now, he's doing what all twenty-somethings should be doing: living life, not wasting it on an internet forum. Besides, he's taken an extended leave from here before. He'll probably be back.

[-] 3 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

And nobody chased him away either. This recent bullshit about people being chased away is just that. Bullshit.

OH - - - MY - - - GOD - - - I never knew that U were so full of SHIT.

[-] 3 points by gnomunny (6819) from St Louis, MO 11 years ago

Where's your proof anyone chased Trevor away? You, my friend are full of shit, and you need to stop following shoozes bullshit. He's the one that's been claiming people have been chased away and apparently you're following in lockstep. He's full of shit, no one chased VQ away. That's a fact. Hell, shooz was even bitching that WE chased YOU away right before you returned and he knew that was a complete lie.

So, I ask again, where's your proof Trevor was chased away? Remember, there was a time when Trevor disappeared for many months, then came back. So what proof do you have DK? If you have none, then shut the fuck up. I wasn't talking to you.

[-] 5 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

Trevor told me himself that he was sick of being attacked for his anti-war stance. You - whom I thought at one time was a friend ( idiot I ) R blind deaf and dumb - as well as a seeming patsy for the shills who attack this forum - and that is giving you the benefit of the doubt. As I didn't think that you could be such an idiot. Well Live and Learn Live and Learn.

[-] 2 points by MattLHolck (16833) from San Diego, CA 11 years ago

expand

[Removed]

[Removed]

[Removed]

[-] -2 points by leilathomson (-13) 11 years ago

It's more like you're trolling everyone on the boards. gnomunny doesn't go around soiling this place with profanity and insults. That's what you do.

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

So U and GNM R best Bud's now - Hey? Or R U just trying 2 throw mud at him? What U do is try 2 spread disinformation and try 2 undermine good contributors 2 the 4um. SO - and I say this with all " due " respect ( none ) Fuck Off.

[Removed]

[Removed]

[Removed]

[Removed]

[Removed]

[-] -2 points by leilathomson (-13) 11 years ago

I doubt it. epa1nter was one of the few users here who really understood and supported Thrasy. He probably got bored because what is being discussed here doesn't get transformed into action.

http://occupywallst.org/forum/thrasymaque-is-out-of-control-again-are-the-modera/#comment-674256

The real forum attackers are the ...TwinkleTeam... They are the ones doing damage by censoring and banning good users. Thrasy is simply misunderstood. People use logical fallacies against him instead of proper debate. It's sad really and says more about conspiracy theory type thinking than it does about Thrasy.

If you read the whole discussion in the posting of the comment I linked above, you'll see that some people even accused epa1nter of being Thrasy. That's how ridiculous this site has become. If someone disagrees, he's a right wing troll, he's Thrasy, etc... No real debate with that type of thinking.

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

& U R ? I mean I know damn well that this is not your 1st day here & I suspect that you have been booted quite a bit more than once. So - Honestly? FO

[-] 1 points by leilathomson (-13) 11 years ago

I don't know who you are, but by your low score I'll assume you're a major troll around here.

Honesty? You're talking through epa1nter's mouth pretending you know how he felt about this place. Read the comment I posted above. Learn your forum history. epa1nter was one of Thrasy's friends. One of his main supporters. He defended him on many occasions from the lies of the real attackers. If you want honesty, stop putting words into other people's mouths, and stop censoring comments to protect others from the truth. Be a man. Use real debating tactics instead of banning and lies. If epa1nter were here he'd tell you you're absolutely wrong about him. Speak for yourself please.

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

Save it trash-can tr-ash-can ash-can for someone who doesn't know any better. Take it to "your" forum that you continually say you are gonna start but never do.

[-] 1 points by leilathomson (-13) 11 years ago

You revive an old forum post to lie about another poster - epa1nter. You put words into his mouth, words that are the opposite of what he thought and believed in.

I see you trolling this forum every single day. Going around and attacking anyone who disagrees with you by calling them a troll, or Thrasy.

You should try to promote free speech. If you disagree with someone, don't bother engaging them unless you can debate in proper fashion. Why attack other users with names, logical fallacies, made up lies, and so on? Ignore those who bother you, engage those you want to engage but do so like an adult.

Do that and you might get some respect around here. You might even get a few twinkles. It's no one's fault but yours if you lost the community's respect.


You're scared to debate properly because you know Thrasy would tear you apart. That's why you must rely on logical fallacies, name calling, and censoring. You want everyone here to march in lock-step. One big group think. If anyone dares to have original ideas, you ban him.

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

BTW shit head I did not revive this post. R U sure U didn't and then delete Ur comment?

[-] -1 points by leilathomson (-13) 11 years ago

Nope. I never once deleted one of my comments though some get banned by the dictator moderators who are afraid of free speech. I didn't revive this posting, a cursory examination reveals you did. I'm guessing you revived it simply to lie about epa1nter. You knew he wasn't here to defend himself. It's those types of lame tactics that make you a troll hovering in the negatives.

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

BS - you regularly go back and remove Ur comments - that is why they say DELETED and not REMOVED. WTF would epa1nter have to defend? Daymn Ur crazier than a shit-house rat.

[-] 1 points by leilathomson (-13) 11 years ago

No, I never deleted any of my comments. Those were other users you thought were me. The problem is, you think everyone who disagrees with you is Thrasy. I honestly never delete even a single comment here. I stand by what I write. Anyhow, what would be the point? You come and and remove them anyhow with your obsession with censorship.

OK. I'm done wasting my time with your lies and other nonsense. There are serious things to discuss. Just try being honest and righteous and you might get some respect and some twinkles. Oh yeah, and stop soiling the forum with profanity and swear words. We aren't in a kindergarten sandbox.

Take care.

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

BS - that is 4 U = BULLSHIT - don't want 2 confuse U - U being such a dim wit and all. One trash-can is much like another tr-ash-can - so if U R not the original ash-can - no big deal - a shill is a shill is a shill - and U fit the bill.

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

Fux U S.H. go spank Ur self - at least U might get some exercise not like your regular mental masturbation. And Fux ur bot 2.

[-] 0 points by leilathomson (-13) 11 years ago

I don't use bots. I can't even program my VCR.

Proper debating will get you more respect than 14-year-old-girl-SMS-type-writing, logical fallacies, lame attacks, censoring others, and lying about other users like epa1nter.

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

I don't use bots.

Of "coarse" U don't.

Proper debating will get you more respect than 14-year-old-girl-SMS-type-writing, logical fallacies, attacks, and lying about other users like epa1nter.

And there ya go again - dropping Ur mask yet again - because - what? - U can't keep track of what U R doing?

Anyway F O trash-can tr-ash-can-ash-can.

By the way what lie did I put in epa1nter's mouth? The only lies I have seen R Ur's.

[-] -1 points by leilathomson (-13) 11 years ago

I don't use bots. If you have evidence to defend your lie that I do, please show us.

Anyhow, happy trolling. I have serious discussions to attend to. Keep lying about epa1nter if you want, and keep making up stories. Whatever. It's fine. Your lies and love for censorship only hurt you in the end.

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

I have serious discussions to attend to

I seriously doubt it. BTW - F O and Happy trails to U

[-] -2 points by leilathomson (-13) 11 years ago

http://occupywallst.org/forum/future-foods-from-the-past/

Great important discussions there, still unperturbed by your trolling.

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

[-] -1 points by leilathomson (7) 3 minutes ago

The only disruptor here is you, profiting from your moderating powers to censor and ban others. It's a real shame. Using power over others is what the 1% do, not what occupiers do.

The more you troll, the more stinkles you get, the more your reputation is ruined.

Now, stop harassing me and go write your daily letter to the President.

↥twinkle ↧stinkle permalink

OH GO FUCK Urself SHIT HEAD - U know stuff Ur head in and out of Ur ass real fast - U ought-a be real good at that - as I think that is how U 1st became a Shit Head.

[Removed]

[Removed]

[Removed]

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

[-] -1 points by leilathomson (7) 3 minutes ago

I don't consider the lie you posted about epa1nter as being decent.

Anyway, your opinion of decency doesn't count. It's the idea that everyone should be in lock-step and never disagree with each other. It's boring, conservative, and leads to stale thoughts.

↥twinkle ↧stinkle permalink

What Lie? Besides Ur's I mean. And U have no idea of decency - so please stop making me laugh. U have been a failure as a disruption on this forum from day 1 and that has never changed and will never change.

[-] -3 points by leilathomson (-13) 11 years ago

The only disruptor here is you, profiting from your moderating powers to censor and ban others. It's a real shame. Using power over others is what the 1% do, not what occupiers do.

The more you troll, the more stinkles you get, the more your reputation is ruined.

Now, stop harassing me and go write your daily letter to the President.

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

[-] 0 points by leilathomson (7) 5 minutes ago

You started the crap here with a lie about epa1nter. I posted a reply to show that you were lying by providing evidence in the form of a comment by epa1nter. epa1nter was a good friend of mine. I feel obliged to defend his honor from those who lie about him.

In any case, I invite you to stop this trolling and join our serious discussion on foods. If you do, please do so as a responsible intelligent adult. The posting is clean right now. Let's keep it that way.

↥twinkle ↧stinkle permalink

Actually except for Ur crap and the crap of others like U - these last few days have been pretty decent 4 the forum.

[-] -2 points by leilathomson (-13) 11 years ago

I don't consider the lie you posted about epa1nter as being decent.

Anyway, your opinion of decency doesn't count. It's the idea that everyone should be in lock-step and never disagree with each other. It's boring, conservative, and leads to stale thoughts.

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

[-] 0 points by leilathomson (7) 5 minutes ago

You just troll. Why not take part in the serious discussion I linked above. Join us. Discuss properly. The posting is clean. I invite you to participate like an intellectual adult. Please don't go there to troll though.

↥twinkle ↧stinkle permalink

C ? There U go again. Chastising Ur self 4 the crap U give others - as it was U who started spewing shit on this thread not I. Have U stopped seeing Ur Dr. ? Is Ur family concerned? If Not - Well They should B.

[-] -1 points by leilathomson (-13) 11 years ago

You started the crap here with a lie about epa1nter. I posted a reply to show that you were lying by providing evidence in the form of a comment by epa1nter. epa1nter was a good friend of mine. I feel obliged to defend his honor from those who lie about him.

In any case, I invite you to stop this trolling and join our serious discussion on foods. If you do, please do so as a responsible intelligent adult. The posting is clean right now. Let's keep it that way.

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

U have a habit of typing while talking 2 Ur self in the mirror.

[-] -2 points by leilathomson (-13) 11 years ago

You just troll. Why not take part in the serious discussion I linked above. Join us. Discuss properly. The posting is clean. I invite you to participate like an intellectual adult. Please don't go there to troll though.

[-] 6 points by TIOUAISE (2526) 12 years ago

This one of the BEST POSTS I have ever read on this forum. Thanks!!!

[-] 3 points by forourfutures (393) 12 years ago

I have to agree. A success story of non violent resistence against greed.

In this nation we have the Constitution. Unfortunately we have a massive deception ongoing. The US government has not been constitutional since 1863. It's been running on the "Lieber code", or The District of Columbia Organic Act of 1871 a private corporation named, “The District of Columbia”.

The "Lieber code" was the rules of engagement for the civil war.

All that is needed is for Americans to realize this enmasse and refuse to recognize the authority. This is particuary important for the military. They are the most abused Americans of all and it is the citizens duty to gently inform them of the deception that has carried too many into unjust wars executing the agenda of rome through British rule, secretly in control of American.

[Deleted]

[-] 3 points by forourfutures (393) 12 years ago

Hey, speaking of strategy that uses built in tools for change, I found these pages. If citizens can organize behind this, some serious good things could happen quite quickly.

http://algoxy.com/ows/soldiersinquiry.html http://algoxy.com/ows/strategyofamerica.html

[-] 2 points by forourfutures (393) 12 years ago

Yes, that is a good, realistic analysis of the current economic state. We need to unify and prepare to voluntarily make some sacrifices and serious changes inthe way we do things.

I'm working on a new forum concept that will make all others obsolete. then we might be able to get past a number of divisons and misprerceptions as a group and get something done locally, everywhere.

[-] -3 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

@ 'fof' : To follow for your interest and consideration, please find an excellent article :

fiat lux ...

[-] -2 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

The article author, George Lakey, is the person who deserves any and all credit but thank-you for your gracious comment. In truth, all I did was the same as you and others here have done ; which is I saw the article, read it, digested it ... and felt uplifted and inspired by it. The more I research it - the more pressingly relevant it seems. When I saw it on The I.C.H. ( http://www.informationclearinghouse.info/ ),I knew that I had to share it verbatim. Please disseminate the article and its ideas as widely as you can.

e tenebris, lux ...

[-] 4 points by jrhirsch (4714) from Sun City, CA 12 years ago

Xlnt article. A must read for all Occupiers.

[-] 4 points by frovikleka (2563) from Island Heights, NJ 12 years ago

Thanks for this shadz. It was particularly interesting to me as all this was going on during the time my dad (born 1912) was a child and a young man in Sweden.

[-] -2 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

Swedes and Norwegians have been enjoying the fruits of what their forefathers did. Their strong Social Democracies have stood the test of time and they have some of the least unequal societies in the world. Icelanders too show a strong belief in their democracy as they too have reclaimed their country from the 'Bankster Larceny'. The Global 99% have much to learn from all these 'Vikinger Bezerkers' of yore !!

respice ; adspice ; prospice ...

[-] 4 points by frovikleka (2563) from Island Heights, NJ 12 years ago

Yes, we have learned to control our "Bezerk[ing]." Our wild side does still surface at Midsummer celebrations, and the like. But other than that we now eat with forks, and have learned to say please and Thank You at the appropriate times. lol

I wish I had asked my Dad more about that tumultuous time in Sweden when he was alive. In a couple of weeks, a good friend will be visiting from Sweden. I will make sure to ask him about what he knows of that tumultuous time, and the benefits that came out of it.

The Swedish/Norwegian blue-print in their early 20th century struggle does sound like one that we should definitely think about emulating in our movement to regain a more equitable system. And in actuality we already are using their methods, with our direct actions.

[-] -3 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

I think "their methods" are ours now & they are we & we, them !!! The 0.01% say "Globalisation" is here to stay ergo we, The 99% say "Globalise Resistance" !! Together We Are Stronger - wherever we are !

You could ask your visiting friend to bring a Social History Book of that era & I presume you know about Howard Zinn's book about The USA. I espouse Libertarian Socialism, True Participatory Democratic Meritocracy and Environmental Sustainability - but these are just words on a variation of the theme of L<3VE. You are an active occupier and a heart-centred dude ! Shine on ~*~

pax, amor et lux ...

[-] 5 points by frovikleka (2563) from Island Heights, NJ 12 years ago

Thanks, I have forwarded this thread to some friends in OTS/OWS, and i am sure that they would agree that we are following in the footsteps of those early 20th century radicals who achieved so much. Is Libertarian socialism what the the Scandinavian countries have?

My friend has a lot on his plate getting ready to come here, and his daughter who will also be coming is returning any day now from the Amazon where she has been doing field work in oceanography (?), but I will definitely ask him to recommend a book to me. I really do want to learn more about that period of time in Sweden, and Norway. Is Libertarian socialism what the Scandinavian countries have?

How Zinn's book is on the top of my list. I remember GK loved that book. Perhaps, I could get the kids to buy it for me for Christmas, eh?

[-] 4 points by toukarin (488) 12 years ago

An inspiring article, but I feel that not enough of the populace in this country feel the kind of outrage that they should.

There are enough people who still get by and do not have the time, inclinations, or means to support the movement.

The reasons behind the peoples acceptance of the current status quo are varied and at least in their eyes... valid...

People are clamoring for change, but we must be ever vigilant and avoid being swayed by small concessions offered by the ones in power and then abandoning the push for real change.

[-] -3 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

@ toukarin : Please excuse my answer below, which is cut and pasted from my replies to "GipsyKing' from earlier on this thread but it totally and hopefully - clearly, expresses my answer to your comment :

Perhaps there is - more than ever, the need for a political party to Truly Represent 'Labor" - as opposed to the current situation where both sides of the 'faux dichotomy of Republocrat / Demoblican', only really represent "Capital". Maybe past 2012, it's time for an "American Labor Party" !!!

Tho' I don't actually wish it upon The Good Citizens of The USA ; somewhat paradoxically, the impetus and prospects of 'another way' and a Third Party, will be strategically aided and abetted by the election of a 'Republican' because any one of the possible candidates is extremely likely to be even more antipathetic to The 99% - without the 'Oblah-blah', charm, lip service and 'smoke and mirrors' !!

I feel things would move forward by the increased engagement the very existence of a Third Party would bring as well as working hard for increased voter registration and more emphasis on a 'Party Manifesto and Platform' rather than the standard US 'Personality Cult Driven' modus operandi for 'politicians' !

Platform & Policies must trump 'Personalities' IF The 99% are NOT to be conned and co-opted again !!!

spero ...

[-] 4 points by toukarin (488) 12 years ago

A third option is a must, I have always maintained that, with only two parties (are they that different?), our political system has regressed into fascism.

You are saying a Republican in office might make things bad enough that enough of the populace will awaken to the need for real change and not rhetoric? I can see your point, but this kind of shock therapy may push the population a bit too far.

What I feel is the problem is that we have an excessive focus on the Presidential election. In the end he is one man. What we need is change in the Congress and Senate. Those are the people who really need to go with all their ties to lobbyists, special interest groups etc. etc.

People need to realize that while we raise such a fuss about who our President is, the powerful then stack the deck by loading Congress and the Senate with their cronies who serve longer terms with less scrutiny.

[-] -3 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

Yes, I agree and to quote you from your first comment above, "People are clamouring for change, but we must be ever vigilant and avoid being swayed by small concessions offered by the ones in power and then abandoning the push for real change.".

The US system of 'checks and balances' seems to have 'checked and balanced' itself out of any real use and effectiveness to represent The US Citizenry as it only seems to really serve the interests of 'Capital'. This is why a growing Occupy Movement in The U$A, is so very important as no one else is doing the very necessary highlighting of issues and protesting the fact that the "political system has regressed into fascism" !!!

It's a 'Numbers Game' and the more the numbers protesting ; in more and more places ; on more and more occasions - the more and more people will realise that Only Their Collective Action will bring about Real Change. Nothing is granted by the Ruling Elites (= Parasites!) ; Any And All positive rights and concessions to justice ever won, have been struggled for and taken 'for and by' Ourselves ; wherever We live On This Good Earth, our beautiful, fragile and shared - Only Home !!

This may sound a tad militant or idealistic to some ears but one only has to read, analyse and reflect upon The Social History of any country but ironically, especially US History, in order to understand this !

per ardua ad astra ...

[-] 4 points by WatTyler (263) 12 years ago

Superb! Thank you!

[+] -4 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

Thanx and given your moniker, you may be interested in http://www.lucyparsonsproject.org/ , for an excellent insight into True but forgotten US 99% Heroine.

audaces fortuna iuvat ...

[-] 4 points by WatTyler (263) 12 years ago

Yes, it is of interest. Thank you again!

[+] -4 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

Also perhaps please watch this short video, "Crises of Capitalism : David Harvey asks if it is time to look beyond capitalism towards a new social order that would allow us to live within a system that really could be responsible, just, and humane ?" ; http://www.informationclearinghouse.info/article30388.htm .

ad iudicium ...

[-] 4 points by WatTyler (263) 12 years ago

Thank you again.

[+] -4 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

Also "WT", for your consideration in due course : "Psywar ; The Real Battlefield Is Your Mind" : http://www.informationclearinghouse.info/article26430.htm .

fiat pax ...

[-] 4 points by WatTyler (263) 12 years ago

Great, informative video. Thanks!

[-] -3 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

'Parakalo' & re. "Gr8 Info." : http://www.informationclearinghouse.info . pax et lux ...

[-] 4 points by beautifulworld (23824) 12 years ago

I wonder, did the Norwegians really use the terminology, the 1%? Thanks, shadz66 for enlightening us about this, not very well-known history.

[-] -3 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

Though they probably did not use the '1%' epithet, the Norwegians would have (& still do) have a clear idea who and what their parasitic adversaries were. Further, with reference to "Non-Violence", 3 links :

Thanx for your gracious words 'bw'. Stay well and aware !!

consilio et animis ...

[-] 4 points by beautifulworld (23824) 12 years ago

Thanks. Great links.

"Satyagraha is a weapon of the strong; it admits of no violence under any circumstance whatsoever; and it ever insists upon truth."

P.S. My fine education was lacking Latin, so thanks in that regard, too. It is fun to look up your phrases.

[+] -4 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

@ beautifulworld : I feel that you (and others) will be interested in :

virtus unita fortius agit ...

[-] 4 points by beautifulworld (23824) 12 years ago

Good article. Thanks. We should be grateful to the Chinese for being experts on resistance.

Yes, we are stronger when we are united, lol!

[+] -4 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

The Chinese 99% have a long and ancient tradition of both petitioning The Emperor (de jour) for justice and their basic rights and of resisting the predations of any corrupt bureaucrats.

Also an obvious but nevertheless necessary link : http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nonviolence .

fiat pax ...

[-] 4 points by beautifulworld (23824) 12 years ago

And, also, just the basic premise of Confucianism very much keeps the leaders in line. There is always a humanistic, ethical foundation that the Chinese people can remind them to adhere to.

[-] 4 points by Underdog (2971) from Clermont, FL 12 years ago

Absolutely INCREDIBLE history lesson about the struggle for economic freedom and equality for all. My original post "Sweden should be our model" has generated a lot more discussion than I anticipated. But one of the most interesting things I found recently is the copy/paste below:

Study: Most Americans want wealth distribution similar to Sweden

By Daniel Tencer Saturday, September 25, 2010 19:28 EST

92 percent prefer Swedish model to US model when given a choice

Americans generally underestimate the degree of income inequality in the United States, and if given a choice, would distribute wealth in a similar way to the social democracies of Scandinavia, a new study finds.

For decades, polls have shown that a plurality of Americans — around 40 percent — consider themselves conservative, while only around 20 percent self-identify as liberals. But a new study from two noted economists casts doubt on what values lie beneath those political labels.

According to research (PDF) carried out by Michael I. Norton of Harvard Business School and Dan Ariely of Duke University, and flagged by Paul Kedrosky at the Infectious Greed blog, 92 percent of Americans would choose to live in a society with far less income disparity than the US, choosing Sweden’s model over that of the US.

What’s more, the study’s authors say that this applies to people of all income levels and all political leanings: The poor and the rich, Democrats and Republicans are all equally likely to choose the Swedish model.

But the study also found that respondents preferred Sweden’s model over a model of perfect income equality for everyone, “suggesting that Americans prefer some inequality to perfect equality, but not to the degree currently present in the United States,” the authors state.

Recent analyses have shown that income inequality in the US has grown steadily for the past three decades and reached its highest level on record, exceeding even the large disparities seen in the 1920s, before the Great Depression. Norton and Ariely estimate that the one percent wealthiest Americans hold nearly 50 percent of the country’s wealth, while the richest 20 percent hold 84 percent of the wealth.

But in their study, the authors found Americans generally underestimate the income disparity. When asked to estimate, respondents on average estimated that the top 20 percent have 59 percent of the wealth (as opposed to the real number, 84 percent). And when asked to choose how much the top 20 percent should have, on average respondents said 32 percent — a number similar to the wealth distribution seen in Sweden.

“What is most striking” about the results, argue the authors, is that they show “more consensus than disagreement among … different demographic groups. All groups – even the wealthiest respondents – desired a more equal distribution of wealth than what they estimated the current United States level to be, while all groups also desired some inequality – even the poorest respondents.”

The authors suggest the reason that American voters have not made more of an issue of the growing income gap is that they may simply not be aware of it. “Second, just as people have erroneous beliefs about the actual level of wealth inequality, they may also hold overly optimistic beliefs about opportunities for social mobility in the United States, beliefs which in turn may drive support for unequal distributions of wealth,” they write.

The authors also note that, though there may be widespread agreement about income inequality, there is no agreement on what caused it or what should be done about it.

“Americans exhibit a general disconnect between their attitudes towards economic inequality and their self-interest and public policy preferences, suggesting that even given increased awareness of the gap between ideal and actual wealth distributions, Americans may remain unlikely to advocate for policies that would narrow this gap,” the authors argue.

[-] -3 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

Thanx for the above. The final paragraphs attest to the power of propaganda, 'mind-management' and the 'manufacture of consent' as citizens are induced to act and vote against their own best interests.

Thus I post the following : "Manufacturing Consent : Noam Chomsky and the Media. Required Viewing for every citizen in the Free World. - How government and big media businesses cooperate to produce an effective propaganda machine in order to manipulate the opinions of the United States populace." ;

a) http://www.informationclearinghouse.info/article12972.htm & alt. link

b) http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-5631882395226827730 +

c) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manufacturing_Consent:_The_Political_Economy_of_the_Mass_Media .

veritas vos liberabit ...

[-] 5 points by Underdog (2971) from Clermont, FL 12 years ago

And here is a link to the PDF that provided the background for the above. After I posted it elsewhere as an original post, I got a response almost immediately requesting additional info. The charts/graphs in particular, as well as how the study was conducted speak for themselves about American attitudes regarding economic equality.

http://www.people.hbs.edu/mnorton/norton%20ariely%20in%20press.pdf

[+] -4 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

Thanx again. I can't help but to repeat the final line of this study :

"Finally, and more broadly,Americans exhibit a general disconnect between their attitudes toward economic inequality and their self-interest and public policy preferences, suggesting that even given increased awareness of the gap between ideal and actual wealth distributions, Americans may remain unlikely to advocate for policies that would narrow this gap."

Reactionary, querulous, pedantic, obtuse, negativist & mendacious 'in-fill-traitors' aside ; OWS is very important for the move to change this "Turkeys Voting For Thanksgiving", 'bizzaro' temporary reality !!

spero ...

[-] 4 points by GypsyKing (8708) 12 years ago

Fantastic! We must be coalition buliders because only through the UNION of all those opposed to corporate rule can we prevail. Really great post!

[+] -4 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

Thanx 'GK' + Please also consider that "coalitions can be built" but can also coalesce around the realisation of the need for solidarity !

Most citizens in The USA, need to work for themselves or by selling their labour, knowledge and expertise, work for others in order to pay their bills ; take care of their obligations and finance their lifestyles. Thus from that perspective, stripped of affectations and conceits, most people are 'Working Class' - irrespective of what they do or how much they earn !!

Perhaps there is - more than ever, the need for a political party to Truly Represent 'Labor" - as opposed to the current situation where both sides of the 'faux dichotomy of Republocrat / Demoblican', only really represent "Capital". Maybe past 2012, it's time for an "American Labor Party" !!!

ad iudicium ...

[-] 3 points by GypsyKing (8708) 12 years ago

This two party system needs to be smashed! That's what I think! I HATE it!

[+] -4 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

Thus a short video that speaks to the fundamental roots of your post : http://www.informationclearinghouse.info/article30368.htm .

multum in parvo ...

[-] 3 points by GypsyKing (8708) 12 years ago

Yes, turn off the idiot box to start with! I have one that only runs DVDs that I choose. Otherwise, I haven't watched the TV in over 20 years.

[-] 3 points by TIOUAISE (2526) 12 years ago

Good for you!

You give me hope...

[+] -4 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

Therefore to repeat, a previously posted, Post-2012 Fantasy Political Future Scenario :

a) Ron Paul (or such like) runs as an 'Independent', supported by a Mass Movement of Independent Citizen Activists with a fully transparent campaign, funded by declared 'Non Corporate' individual donations for an Internet / TV / Radio campaign, with fully audited finances ;

b) Dennis Kucinich (or such like) runs as an 'Independent', supported by a Mass Movement of Independent Citizen Activists with a fully transparent campaign, funded by declared 'Non Corporate' individual donations for an Internet / TV / Radio campaign, with fully audited finances ;

c) The winner of this 4 but really 3 (coz Dem=Rep) contest picks the other 'Independent' as Executive Vice-President and a New Broom comes to 'Turdsville Washington' to sweep away all the old BS ;

d) American Citizens Get To Fixing Their Country & Its Relations With The Rest Of The World & ...

e) The rest of us Earthlings breathe a Gigantic Sigh Of Relief !!!

dum spiro, spero ...

[-] 3 points by GypsyKing (8708) 12 years ago

Yes, I thought that over, and it seems like a real possibility. Their is enough disillusionment out there that it might actually work.

[-] -3 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

@ GK : FYI, from the time of the 2008 election :

nil desperandum ...

[+] -5 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

Further to the above and also by Joel Hirchhorn :

pax et lux ...

[-] 3 points by adjustment (1) 12 years ago

Hey, if we could do that we could use article 5 of the constitution. The Swedes with different dialects were better of than we are with different corporate logos on our "T" shirts.

[-] 3 points by MattLHolck (16833) from San Diego, CA 12 years ago

political parties were part of the success

[+] -4 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

Yes but there was more than just a Two Party Duopoly !! + Of possible interest to you and others :

fiat iustitia ...

[-] 2 points by PeterKropotkin (1050) from Oakland, CA 12 years ago

Oh i think I posted this a few months back. Its a good peice. Good for Norway man.

[-] 2 points by lkindr (58) 12 years ago

I like this article. I don't know many Norwegians. Here's one I like: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JzqumbhfxRo

[-] -2 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

Thanx. I 'liked that you liked' and was more than amused by your linked video. You sound as though you are an ideal person to appreciate the following rather amazing, incredible and somewhat moving performance. The 'shifted up & conscious' lyrics start at 2:20 min. but you will be entranced for the whole seven & half minutes - or your money back ;-)

You can see from the number of hits just how amazing folk think that this performance is & the lyrics are universal, political and totally LOVE centred and hopefully goes with the posted article.~*~.

pax, amor et lux ...

[-] 2 points by economicallydiscardedcitizen (761) 12 years ago

Thank you for posting this!

"Be the change!"~Gandhi

[+] -5 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

@ 'edc' : MKG & MLK bro' & http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g8QvxiQWp2g !! per aspera ad astra !

[-] 2 points by poltergist22 (159) 12 years ago

I read your post and yes at first it seemed a very good example of a decent society... but then I researched Norway and found out something I didn't know...They don't advertise it like the Arabs but the entire system they have is subsidized by North Sea oil. We don't have that kind of wealth for 300+million Americans compared to 4 million Norwegians.

[+] -4 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

@ 'p22' : The matter of Norway's North Sea Oil is well known in Europe but the most important thing to realise is that the Norwegian 99% had already recalibrated their society by the time North Sea Oil was discovered and exploited, in the 1970's. The real point of the article was to show how the Norwegian industrial and farm workers united in common cause with the Middle Classes to overturn their Parasitic Ruling Elites who were running Norway for their own benefit years before any oil was even known about. When oil was found and exploited, the hard work had already been done.

Furthermore and with typical foresight, the Norwegians have built up a Sovereign Wealth Fund with their oil revenues that is likely to serve them well for at least another generation and probably longer. The UK too had very similar North Sea Oil Revenues but for the last 40 years, successive UK Governments have let Private Oil Corporations take by far the lions share of the oil and merely taxed their profits and used these tax revenues as part of The General Government Current Account. Thus, compare and contrast the rather short-sighted "Pro-Private Corporation ; Business Friendly ; Pseudo-Free Market, Philosophy" of The UK with the "Longer Term, Society-Focussed, Pro-People" approach of The Norwegians.

The U$A is still the most wealthy country on Earth, so I don't know what you mean by : "We don't have that kind of wealth for 300+million Americans" and have you considered just what happened to 'The End Of The Cold War, Peace Dividend and just how much The U$A still continues to spend on The 'Military Industrial Complex' ; Its Military Bases and Its Empire Abroad ?

Finally, perhaps the following links will be of some interest to you and others :

a) http://www.warresisters.org/sites/default/files/FY2012piechart-color.pdf ;

b) http://www.ctj.org/corporatetaxdodgers/CorporateTaxDodgersReport.pdf ;

c) http://topdocumentaryfilms.com/category/economics/ ;

d) http://www.opensecrets.org/ &

e) http://ni4d.us/ .

fiat lux ; fiat pax ; fiat iustitia ruat caelum ...

[-] 2 points by freewriterguy (882) 12 years ago

one of the things we can do is stop paying taxes to them.

[+] -4 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

I'm coming round to this idea more and more but it can NOT be easily done by those whose taxes are deducted at source (like 'PAYE' ; "Pay As You Earn", in The UK) and also, it can only really be effective IF 'Organised, Mass Tax Non-Payment' is carried out Simultaneously with donations to charities and social projects, as easy accusations of seeking personal financial gain will otherwise result.

To 'The Parasitic 0.01% and their 1% Lackeys' ; Tax Avoidance and Evasion is of course 'par for the course' !! Remember Martha Stewart and her "Only little people pay taxes", supercilious, pompous conceits ?! For The 99% to engage in 'Principled & Organised Mass Tax Non Payment', it is only possible IF The Moral High Ground can be defended (imho).

ad iudicium ...

[-] 2 points by Renaye (522) 12 years ago

Outstanding !!! They dug in and got it done.

[+] -4 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

Also, fyi :

verbum satis sapienti ...

[-] 1 points by gsw (3420) from Woodbridge Township, NJ 3 years ago

We should have very low cost home loans. And a free public healthcare, such as a public option in Philippines, no money, just pay what you can

[-] 1 points by beautifulworld (23824) 3 years ago

The Arab Spring 10 years on.

January 2021 marks the 10th year anniversary of the Arab Spring which sprang the Occupy Wall Street movement on September 17th of that year.

https://www.theguardian.com/world/ng-interactive/2021/jan/25/how-the-arab-spring-unfolded-a-visualisation

Though the Arab Spring itself was short-lived, the Occupy movement evolved ideas that are now known in every household in America and are either beloved by or the antithesis of every politician in this country.

We all get what is meant by "We are the 99 percent." And, the awareness of all Americans of what the "1 percent" is has changed the conversation and the trajectory of our country, sometimes for the better, and sometimes for the worse. For the worse when the backlash of greedy grubbing, selfish people want to fight for their white supremacy and privilege as we saw during the Capitol failed insurrection of January 6th.

Some further reading on the Occupy movement:

https://what-democracy-looks-like.org/their-fight-is-our-fight/

And, Occupy spread all over the world, just look at the map on this website. It even made it's way to Oslo, Norway. Hence this post on this thread which was posted 9 years ago but which has information and truths that persist in their relevance.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Occupy_Oslo

It's something to celebrate that the ideas of Occupy live on even if the tents were taken down. Fight on and never give up!

Omnibus rebus bonis finis est

[-] 1 points by ImNotMe (1488) 3 years ago

Yes "all good things come to an end" but things also carry forward with consequence. So consider:

Not only changing the political lexicon but Medicare4All and $15 min.wage would be great in USA!

respice, adspice, prospice ...

[-] 1 points by beautifulworld (23824) 4 years ago

We must vote Trump out. It's imperative to get the fascist out.

America has never had a fascist leader before Trump and we need to get him out asap no matter what. That is the most important thing to do.

Then, once the fascist populist is gone, we can start fighting for our progressive values again. It's unfortunate but we have to do this. We have to vote for Biden. We cannot continue with a fascist dangerous government under any circumstances.

[-] 1 points by beautifulworld (23824) 7 years ago

Puerto Rico needs immediate help. There is simply not time to sit around and argue about this one.

"Close to genocide': San Juan mayor's dire appeal to US for Puerto Rico relief"

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/sep/29/san-juan-mayor-criticizes-us-officials-for-calling-puerto-rico-relief-effort-good-news

[-] 1 points by grapes (5232) 7 years ago

The U.S. respected the sovereignty of the Spanish Ocean. Puerto Rico is in the middle of that very big ocean.

[-] 1 points by beautifulworld (23824) 7 years ago

Wake up! Trump's tax plan will only benefit the wealthy.

[-] 1 points by ImNotMe (1488) 7 years ago

Dr. Michael Hudson and the ...

U need to watch this video of the excellent Thom Hartmann, speaking with the brilliant, Michael Hudson.

fiat lux ...

[-] 2 points by beautifulworld (23824) 7 years ago

More from Hudson on the Trump Tax Scam.

http://michael-hudson.com/2017/10/what-tax-plan/

"S. Peries: Michael, another method that wealthy individuals and companies can use to avoid paying taxes is deducting investment expenses. Tell us how this works.

M. Hudson: If you look at the real estate sector’s loopholes, since World War II the National Income and Product Accounts (NIPA) report that real estate is hardly paying any income tax at all. If you own a building and you’re an absentee owner – not living there, not a homeowner, but absentee owners – they avoid paying any income tax because they don’t earn any reportable income. They pay interest, which is a tax-deductible expense, or they pretend – under the accounting rules that their lobbyists have bought from Washington – that the buildings actually are depreciating in value, even while the price is soaring. It’s going way up, they don’t have to pay an income tax. Then finally, when they die neither their estate nor their heirs have to pay any capital gains. The heirs get it without having to pay any tax.

The richest people have to pay an estate tax, but that’s being knocked out also. I think that everybody, as you pointed out, who’ve looked at the tax plan, says, “All the benefits are at the top. Where’s the benefit for the low-income people?”

Well, the wage earners are going to have to pay more tax. The minimum tax rate is actually raised from 10% to 12%. Also, people who live in Democratic states, New York, New Jersey, Maryland, California and so forth, will not be able to subtract the state and local taxes that they’ve been deducting from their taxable income all these years. So the tax rate for wage earners, for people who actually have to file tax forms and declare an income, is actually going to go up. The economy is going to be made poorer."

[-] 2 points by ImNotMe (1488) 7 years ago

Powerful! Thanx for that, as well as .. ''This is a killer to read. Heartbreaking'' ...

Your disturbing NoClink should be required reading here - even (or should that be 'especially'?) for frf!

fiat justitia ...

[-] 1 points by beautifulworld (23824) 6 years ago

Americans are barely surviving.

"People are working more hours for decreasing wages and benefits. A Princeton study concluded that a stunning 94 percent of the nine million new jobs created in the past decade were temporary or contract-based, rather than traditional full-time positions.

It’s estimated that over three-quarters of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck, and about half of this group has reported “material hardship” (running out of food [or worrying about running out of food], not being able to afford a place to live or medical treatment, or having utilities turned off). Worse yet, most people who survive paycheck to paycheck are ill-prepared for the future. Only a third of workers are putting money into a 401(k). The median working-age couple has saved only $5,000 for retirement, and almost 70 percent of Americans have less than $1,000 saved."

"The American dream, fading away for half of America. We still have our houses and cars, right? Maybe not. The poorest 50% of American adults had an average net worth (home and financial assets minus debt) of just $7,500 in 2016. A year earlier it was $9,000, but the richest 1% took it away, gaining an average of $1.5 million in that single year."

From that killer article:

https://www.nationofchange.org/2017/10/16/yes-half-americans-near-poverty-heres-evidence/?platform=hootsuite

[-] 1 points by ImNotMe (1488) 6 years ago

"The American dream, fading away for half of America. We still have our houses and cars, right? Maybe not. The poorest 50% of American adults had an average net worth (home and financial assets minus debt) of just $7,500 in 2016. A year earlier it was $9,000, but the richest 1% took it away, gaining an average of $1.5 million in that single year." From that killer article ...

because repetition is what it'll take to get the message thru to Mind Manged Mercans!

[-] 1 points by beautifulworld (23824) 6 years ago

March For Our Lives is happening today, 3/24/18. It's great to see so many young people becoming politically active.

I only hope they can connect the dots. Gun control to money in politics to war and military industrial complex to prison industrial complex and racism to economic oppression and low wages and high college tuition to DEBT and FREEDUMB!

[-] 1 points by ImNotMe (1488) 6 years ago

''The Coming Collapse of the American Economic System'' Chris Hedges & Prof. R. D. Wolff:

Increasingly, when dots are identified & connected - they point to a monstrous & doomed system.

ipsa scientia potestas est ...

[-] 1 points by beautifulworld (23824) 6 years ago

Consumer debt is the next bubble.

https://www.investopedia.com/news/what-will-trigger-next-stock-market-crash/

According to Stephanie Pomboy "Consumers have had to draw down whatever savings they amassed after the crisis and run up credit-card debt to keep up with the necessities of life....Outlays on food and energy alone gobbled up 30% of the increase in consumer spending during the last six months, she said, versus 11% in the two prior years. This is crowding out discretionary retail spending, and thus she advises investors to "steer clear" of this sector. There also are much wider ramifications. "At 70% of the economy, a drop in consumer spending will impact profits," she noted."

We also have a pension crisis. Think about it. If pension are already massively under-funded and the stock market doesn't increase the way they predicted/assumed it would, the pensions become even more under-funded.

Pomboy says "We are looking at a $4 trillion pension deficit across the public and private sectors in the U.S., after nine years of rampant asset inflation," Pomboy also observed. On a per capita basis, that's over $12,000 for every U.S. resident. "If the market corrects even 15%, and stays there, it will bore massive holes in pensions," she added."

[-] 1 points by ImNotMe (1488) 6 years ago

Car Loan Debt; Credit Card Debt; Consumer Debt; Mortgage Debt; Student Debt - individuals, couples,

families, the employed, the self-employed, small businesses, medium & big businesses, Multi-National

Corporations & Entire Nations Are All In DEBT! To Who?!! Who decides on the rate of interest & where

the decimal point goes?!!! Workers have been using Debt just to survive & make up for stagnant wages

that have not kept up with inflation & a rising cost of living - that is NOT reflected in the official statistics.

Thanx for your very interesting link/excerpt and in compliment, please do consider the following links ...

radix omnium malorum est cupiditas ...

[-] 1 points by beautifulworld (23824) 5 years ago

You are not a loan.

Consumer debt at record highs in UK. With Brexit oncoming, is this sustainable?

https://www.theguardian.com/business/2019/jan/07/average-uk-household-debt-now-stands-at-record-15400

U.S. national debt hit record high of $22 Trillion

https://www.npr.org/2019/02/13/694199256/u-s-national-debt-hits-22-trillion-a-new-record-thats-predicted-to-fall

So much for "conservative" economic policy. Republicans are a sham party. And, Democrats not far behind.

Another reason future generations should be out on the street. This debt will be theirs to deal with along with environmental collapse. The two are connected.

[-] 1 points by ImNotMe (1488) 5 years ago

"U.S. national debt hit record high of $22 Trillion"*:

"So much for "conservative" economic policy. Republicans are a sham party. And, Democrats not far behind. Another reason future generations should be out on the street. This debt will be theirs to deal with along with environmental collapse. The two are connected." ... because it bears repeating. Also consider ...

radix omnium malorum est cupiditas ...

[-] 1 points by beautifulworld (23824) 7 years ago

Occupy Wall Street had it right. All of this racism we're seeing is corporate America's dream. Divide and conquer.

[-] 1 points by Alternatives2WallSt (62) 7 years ago

Very informative article! Obviously, nothing like the Scandinavian level of social justice can happen in America. Instead, the so-called pro-faith and pro-family party of Republicans has gutted public education and given many children malnutrition if not lead poisoning.

This will continue--unless perhaps--instead of camping out in front of Wall Street--some Americans start a nonprofit alternative to Facebook. And if this "Facebook alternative" is commercially aggressive enough to eclipse Facebook, similarly as Facebook eclipsed MySpace. And if--either "instead of" or "in addition to" all the Singles and Gaming advertising--posted prominent links to educational videos. Such as, explaining that the first so-called "socialists" are described in the Acts of the Apostles.

I am currently attempting to start such a "Facebook alternative." If anyone is interested in helping, please click my name and send a "private message." Especially if you live in the New England area.

[Removed]

[-] 6 points by shadz66 (19985) 11 years ago

Swedes and Norwegians have been enjoying the fruits of what their forefathers did. Their strong Social Democracies have stood the test of time and they have some of the least unequal societies in the world. Icelanders too show a strong belief in their democracy as they too have reclaimed their country from the 'Bankster Larceny'. The Global 99% have much to learn from all these 'Vikinger Bezerkers' of yore !!

I could do no better than use the same words as months ago in thanx for your very telling comment & solidarity to u & your friends on the ground for #S17 today. Take care, be well, warm and aware. Var val min van och solidaritet.

respice ; adspice ; prospice ...

[Removed]

[-] 6 points by shadz66 (19985) 11 years ago

Alas, ''people continue to promote and vote for the duopoly in the hope that one party can bring us to the promised land'' is an indication of desperation and a lack of imagination and arguably conforms to Einstein's theory of madness. More of the same is no choice at all.

''You can slow down decentralized movements, but as long as repressive conditions persist, you cannot stop them. By their nature, decentralized movements toward freedom ebb and flow like waves, shape-shifting and growing increasingly effective in achieving their goals, while weeding out and exposing saboteurs, egos and shortsighted agendas along the way. Decentralized movements are forces much bigger than anyone can wrap their hands around and control; like trying to grasp flowing water or control the mighty seas.''

Solidaritet min bror.

dum spiro, spero ...

[-] 2 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

Alas, ''people continue to promote and vote for the duopoly

Still - if people would stop voting for the blatant assholes - the ones that smile at em while lying - slapping em in the face time after time after time with a 2x4. Well things might be a little different. Don't ya think?

[-] 6 points by shadz66 (19985) 11 years ago

Ah, 'the lesser of two evils' argument that bought us Obomber ! There are the smiling Republicons and the non-smiling Democraps but The 99% are being thwacked by a 2x4 in any case !! War & Empire roll on and Banksterism & Corporatocracy prevail because The Banksters and Corporate Oligarchs pay for both sides and swing their money both ways - did you know that a) Charles Koch once ran as a Dem & b)The extent of Obummer's debt & ownership by Banksters ?! It speaks volumes that Dems oust people like Dennis Kucinich and Cynthia McKinney and there'll be no revolution or even fundamental change by holding on to the status quo & I recommend :

e tenebris, lux ...

[-] 2 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

LOL - Perfect - TWEET

DKAtoday ‏@DKAtoday

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WSIUf2hD6Io

A song for our times.

Bugger The Bankers.

Quite appropriate.

pls

Share

Circulate

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

The Keiser Report Ep.#498

Still watching - but - right off the bat - how do these idiots collect all of this information - and then still have an economic meltdown? Shit all of this is an inside traders ( members of government among others ) wet dream. They ( TPTB ) are sitting there laughing their asses off at how badly that they are gonna rip everyone's face off everyone's but their own - ooooops - well no biggy we will have the government bail us out - nothing ventured nothing gained - Right?

It is also funny that this would be aired on RT. Well I guess - not that funny.

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

Lee Camp's 'Moment of Clarity Ep.#1 - TWEET

DKAtoday ‏@DKAtoday

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RCTo2cBoUTU

Were U aware?

Yes/No

No?

Why not?

Watch the 1st 3 minutes

If U don't find that U agree

Well

Then we R in TROUBLE

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

And if you have not already seen it: http://www.truth-out.org/news/item/18912-why-didnt-ows-transform-into-a-political-movement

I really liked the interview - but felt that it was unfortunate to leave out the MSM as part of the tearing down process.

BTW - it is not really the lesser of two evils per say as it is more finding and supporting good people who support the people and the Constitution. As anyone who gets put into office - and no the party does not matter - the individual matters - anyone who gets placed into office does not even have to follow their oath of office.

[-] 4 points by shadz66 (19985) 11 years ago

No, I hadn't seen it but have opened it & will both read & watch very soon. Thanx & I hope that I hope you'll do the same - especially for the 2nd halves of Lee Camp's & Max Keiser's shows - both of which feature Greg Palast. It was Camp's first 'Moment of Clarity' show & Keiser's very latest show & I strongly recommend both. Prep for jaw on chest ;-) & also fyi :

pax ...

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

Thanks - will do and will do. {:-])

[-] 4 points by shadz66 (19985) 11 years ago

I just watched your video link & realised that the text was a transcript. I really enjoyed it and could relate to it very well and the interviewee (Nathan Schneider) is the editor of http://wagingnonviolence.org/ which is right at the top of this forum-post & from where this forum-post originated. Thanx again & solidarity :-)

pax et lux ; nunc et semper ...

[-] 1 points by TropicalDepression (-45) 11 years ago

"Figuring things out is one of the only freedoms we really have left ! Go Use That Freedom !! Go Figure !!!"

Truth.

[-] 1 points by shadz66 (19985) 11 years ago

''Joy Arises, Rules Fall Apart : Thoughts for the Second Anniversary of Occupy Wall Street'', by Rebecca Solnit :

Solidarity TD & @ OWS.

pax, amor et lux ...

[-] 1 points by WooHoo (15) 12 years ago

That was long.

[+] -4 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

Lol ! Hope it was worth it !! Need a break and a 'pick me up' ? Try "Spirit" by The Waterboys (Live at The Glastonbury Festival, 1986) : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nUzLQ8xOa9Q&feature=related , coz for over 25 years, it's always worked on me !!!

pax, amor et lux ...

[-] 1 points by Jflynn1964 (-206) 12 years ago

How ironic that you idolize a country that receives over 20% of its GDP from the oil sector. Their GDP growth is clearly dependent on North Sea oil, natural gas and minerals.

We could have the same thing but the government just delayed the XL pipeline. Maybe we should put all of our investment into developing the shale reserves and eliminate the solar investments we are making that does nothing but support the Chinese.

[-] 3 points by Underdog (2971) from Clermont, FL 12 years ago

I would like to get official Swedish government statistics on this to put this to rest once and for all. Can someone provide it? I have seen statistics all over the place on these posts ranging from a low of 6% to as high as 40%-50%.

Let's get the FACTS and let the facts speak for themselves.

[-] 1 points by Jflynn1964 (-206) 12 years ago

I was speaking about Norway, not Sweden.

From the US EIA:

"Norway, the largest holder of natural gas and oil reserves in Europe, provides much of the oil and gas consumed on the continent. In fact, in 2010, Norway was the second largest exporter of natural gas in the world, second only to Russia. In 2010, crude oil, natural gas, and pipeline transport services accounted for almost 50 percent of Norway's exports value, 21 percent of GDP, and 25 percent of government revenues according to the Norwegian Petroleum Directorate".

[-] 3 points by Underdog (2971) from Clermont, FL 12 years ago

Sorry about the confusion of Sweden vs. Norway. I went out to the US EIA site looking for the facts on Sweden and couldn't find any due my unfamiliarity with the site. Could you perhaps be kind enough to provide them? I am a big supporter of the Swedish model and would really like to know the facts since there are a lot of people advocating against it for similar reasons you might be arguing about Norway. Thanks.

[-] 1 points by Jflynn1964 (-206) 12 years ago

I personally think Sweden is a very different country than Norway. Since the mid part of the last decade they have moved to lower taxes and government spending due to slow growth. The other unspoken part of all of the Scandinavian countries is the homogeneity of the population and the very strong work ethic and culture. It is very interesting that looking at areas where they have emigrated to, shows that they brought this culture with them, a la Minnesota.

[+] -4 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

As you've just joined the forum maybe you'd consider an insight of some OWSesque themes :

a) "The War Against the Poor, Occupy Wall Street and the Politics of Financial Morality" : http://www.informationclearinghouse.info/article29649.htm ;

b) http://topdocumentaryfilms.com/category/economics/

c) Re. The 2008 'Financial Coup d'Etat / Grand Heist', two excellent documentary films :

'Inside Job' provides a comprehensive analysis of the global financial crisis of 2008, which at a cost over $20 trillion, caused millions of people to lose their jobs and homes in the worst recession since the Great Depression, and nearly resulted in a global financial collapse.

"The Warning" is an excellent insight into the individuals and events involved in the lead up to 2008.

fiat lux ...

[-] -2 points by Jflynn1964 (-206) 12 years ago

You honestly expect me to click through to links that you have posted?

How old are you? Some of you need to grow up!!!

[+] -4 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

I'm left cold, confused and cantankerous by your strange comment !

Why not click the links ? What are you so fearful of ?! Is encountering or reading another point of view, really so difficult or frightening ?!! Bar your petty, puerile prejudices, what have you really got to loose ?!!!

ad iudicium ...

[-] -3 points by Jflynn1964 (-206) 12 years ago

I'm fearful of software bugs. You represent the people that just vandalized Oakland's city hall. You don't believe in respectable behavior so I don't put it past you to attempt to vandalize my computer.

[-] 6 points by beautifulworld (23824) 12 years ago

shadz66 is legit. I open his/her links all the time without a problem. He's also very smart and we all learn a lot from him/her. As a matter of fact, I've had no problem in this forum at all with that type of thing except for one time and my software blocked the "malicious url."

[-] 1 points by Jflynn1964 (-206) 12 years ago

Fair enough.

[+] -4 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

Shucks, thanx mate ! I only just answered 'jflynn' myself but somewhat less graciously !! For the record, I'm a bloke & more importantly, I don't think the only thinly disguised 'jflynn', has really been the same since 'The Travelling Wilburys' started losing members !!!

Maybe he should resurrect 'The ELO' and start writing songs again !!! That & get a decent 'anti-virus' ...

[& FAO 'jflynn' : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bo0RpBGHjwA ] ~{;-)

[-] 5 points by beautifulworld (23824) 12 years ago

Jeff Lynne. You are too funny. No problem. If we don't stick up for each other, who will?

[+] -5 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

Solidarity bro'/sis & even if you're a bloke, here's one for you by 'The ELO' - "Sweet Talking Woman (Live)" ; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_pVihntUEVw&feature=related !! amor vincit omnia ~;-)

[-] 5 points by beautifulworld (23824) 12 years ago

I'm a sis, LOL! Oldie but goodie.

amor vincit omnia - Love conquers all (I looked it up)

[-] 4 points by TIOUAISE (2526) 12 years ago

Amor vincit omnia: for me, that pretty well sums up EVERYTHING.

Within a few eons, this is all going to end with one humungous Party - and I hope beautifulworld and shadz66 will be close by...:)

[-] 5 points by beautifulworld (23824) 12 years ago

Sweet.

[+] -5 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

Hey 'T' ! Can I DJ if I can balance the decks on my zimmer frame at this future party ?!! + To change the groove from 'Scots Rock', to follow are a couple of tunes that you'll recognize by 'Curtis Mayfield' {RIP} :

a) "Keep On Keeping On" : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t-l91O9VxN0 ... coz ..

b) "We Got To Have Peace" ; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4QglEbgON9o&feature=related !!

fiat pax ...

[+] -5 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

Well sister 'bw', you have my respect and solidarity & "Oldie + Goodie = Goldie"? & for you and further to the live version which I posted for 'WooHoo' earlier on & further up this thread, here's a song, a hymn and a prayer : "Spirit", by 'The Waterboys' from 1985ish ; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7plNRs5kwgE - but sorry about the cheesy video !!

pax, amor et lux ...

[-] 5 points by beautifulworld (23824) 12 years ago

Wow! Thanks shadz66! 1985 was one of my best years - my uni days.

For fun, here's one of my favorite songs from then, "In a Big Country." "Spirit" reminded me of it, I have no idea why:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-SotTAs9hEM&feature=fvst

[+] -5 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

Hey, I know this song very well !! 'The Waterboys' and 'Big Country' are both Scottish bands from the same era, so maybe the accent tweaked your memory. I still own 'The Crossing' and 'Steeltown' (1st & 2nd BC albums) and Stuart Adamson [RIP] was a great songsmith who had an incredible way of making his guitar sound like the 'skirl of bagpipes', so as you can probably tell, I'm a big fan. Thanx ;-)

[-] 5 points by beautifulworld (23824) 12 years ago

That must be it. I used to listen to "Big Country" over and over. How funny!

[+] -5 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

I've been playing various 'Big Country' tracks since you gifted your link above and so on a "Spirit" tip, I came across the following song from the last album before Stuart Adamson prematurely passed on to 'The Great Gig In The Sky' : "Your Spirit To Me" (Live) - Big Country" ; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bqpbgp1WRv4&feature=related ! A song that I wasn't even familiar with but now thanx to you, I am ;-)

[+] -5 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

Tch, 'jflynn' !!! I frequently attach links to my posts but and I have never had anyone complain. I myself have opened every link that I attach and would not have lasted long on this forum IF I was providing corrupted links. I suppose that you are not to know this having just only joined on Saturday, 29th Jan.

However, the statement : "You represent the people that just vandalized Oakland's city hall. You don't believe in respectable behavio(u)r so I don't put it past you to attempt to vandalize my computer.", really only sums up and reflects upon your own mean-spirited ; negative, obtuse and paranoid mindset !

With all your 'fear and loathing', one wonders what motivates your joining this forum and posting on these threads. I would never "vandalize" your computer nor would I need to even if I knew how, as clearly your own 'Internal Psychic Operating System' is pretty corrupted already ! Now who should you blame for that ?! Your (probably already long suffering) parents, perhaps ?!!

You'll find that your whole world view will improve immensely once you've unblocked your heart and extracted your head from your (x) ... and good luck with writing an algorithm for that process !!!

verum ex absurdo ...

[-] 1 points by Jflynn1964 (-206) 12 years ago

Seriously, you click through to random links people post? Do you know to what extent Chinese and Russian criminals are doing to steal your financial information. And your firewall is not too enough.

Did you see what the OWS people did to the Oakland City Hall? And that's with a mayor who has accommodated you in every turn. Sorry that behavior is unacceptable.

[+] -5 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

I'm a trusting kinda dude but I don't do anything financial via my computer + I accept your apology ;-)

[Removed]

[-] -1 points by bensdad (8977) 12 years ago

Great histor y lesson - but -
The problem is not the two party system
The problem is not crapitalism
The problem is not politicians


The problem is the crapitalist influence of money on our politicians


A very straightforward solution that 80% of Americans already want-
.......................................................................get money out of politics

[-] -3 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

I could not disagree more as - The problem IS the two party system ; The problem IS Crapitalism and The problem IS politicians !!! That which you single out as "The problem is the crapitalist influence of money on our politicians" is really and honestly only a later symptom of the former !! Finally re. "A very straightforward solution that 80% of Americans already want -- get money out of politics" - well there is nothing "straightforward" about it as The Corporate Capture & Control of 'Politricks in The U$A' shows !

Ever heard of of 'ALEC' ? Of course I know that you have but I still append :

'Money Out Off Politics' won't just happen IF left to the politicians - with one or two exceptions (Bernie Sanders, Dennis Kucinich & Cynthia McKinney come to mind!) US Politicians are bought and paid for. ONLY a Mass 99% Movement pressing from the bottom up and possibly votes for the likes of Jill Stein will change this BS Bad Situation but do NOT hold your breath for any 'top down reform' and tinkering !

ad iudicium ...

[-] 1 points by bensdad (8977) 12 years ago

so if you have a sprained knee, you cut off your foot?

capitalism works well
democracy works well
BUT NOT WHEN ONE OWNS THE OTHER


you & I kvetch about ALEC - which would be defanged by
eliminating democracy
OR
eliminating capitalism
OR
eliminating the connection between the two


80% of Americans want that third option


do you have any actual evidence that a majority of Americans
want either of the first two ???


or do you prefer to force those solutions - that they do not want


FYI - my 80% is not BS - check the FOUR polls on our web site http://corporationsarenotpeople.webuda.com
add to that 380+ local & state resolutions,
1,900,000 signatures
and 1,300 mayors

[-] -3 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

If you somehow honestly believe that modern Crapitalism "works well" for The Global 99% and that The Corporate Captured and Controlled Faux-Duopoly demoCRAZY deMOCKERYcy in The U$A "works well", then frankly anything I say will not disabuse you of your delusions.

If we were to have an exchange here, we would probably talk past, through and around each other and given your rather idiosyncratic notational style and your insistence on taking ownership of my more generic "BS" aside, well ... then I shall leave you to perhaps re-read the forum-posted article and/or reflect on what 'OWS' is really all about.

ad iudicium ...

[-] -3 points by BetsyRoss (-744) 12 years ago

Are you George Lakey? If not, did you obtain his permission to use his material or "disseminate" it or are you violating copyright laws and encouraging others to as well?

[+] -4 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

Hmmmmmmm ....... a) No, patently - I am not ; b) No, I did not ; c) No, I am not !

Do you understand 'The Internet' and have you ever reflected on "Fair Use", 'BetsyR' ?!!

Or is it the words and content rather than my "violating copyright laws", which vexes you ?!!!

George Lakey is Visiting Professor at Swarthmore College and a Quaker. How about you get in touch with him and ask him his opinion of my heinous crimes ( http://www.swarthmore.edu/index.xml ) !!!!

minima maxima sunt ...

[-] 0 points by BetsyRoss (-744) 12 years ago

How about you contact him yourself and ask?

[+] -4 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

Hmmm ! You're a querulous, petulant contrarian !! You asked ; You're still curious ; so, You go & ask !!!

[-] 0 points by BetsyRoss (-744) 12 years ago

Your respect for the man, and his rights, and his intellectual property are obviously hypocritical.

[+] -4 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

And I thought that my respect for "the man" was both clear and very evident !!! Ho-humm ; something, somewhere is "obviously" awry !! I wonder who or what it could be ?! Me thinks perchance, that maybe it's just that you'd like to think and speak ill of me ... ho-hummm and glum .. et ad absurdum(b) ! ~{:-(

[-] -2 points by BetsyRoss (-744) 12 years ago

Copyright and Electronic Publishing

The same copyright protections exist for the author of a work regardless of whether the work is in print, in a library research database, a blog, an online discussion board or comment space, or any social media formats. If you make a copy from an online source for your personal use, it is more likely to be seen as fair use. However, if you make a copy and put it online, it is less likely to be considered fair use. Note that the Internet IS NOT the public domain. There are both copyrighted and uncopyrighted materials online. Always assume a work online is copyrighted.

[+] -4 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

Good ! Now you're reflecting on "Fair Use" !! Look how much progress you're making !!! ad iudicium ...

[-] -2 points by BetsyRoss (-744) 12 years ago

Now if you could just progress to the point of intellectual honesty...

[+] -4 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

What ? Would it make your day ?! Why ?!! & Now Who's Asking The Questions ?!!! ad absurdum(b) ...

[ps : Have you just cut & pasted your comment above entitled "Copyright and Electronic Publishing"? It sure looks like you did ! What, without reference to source or any accreditation ?!! "Your respect for the author, and his rights, and his intellectual property are obviously hypocritical." !!! Also, please could you further expound on the matter of "hypocrisy" for the edification and information of the rest of us here ?!!]

[+] -4 points by GirlFriday (17435) 12 years ago

Phenomenal post!!!

[-] 4 points by TIOUAISE (2526) 12 years ago

Yes indeed!

This should give us great hope.

[-] -3 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

Thanx 'GF' & 'Ti" + Further for the "truly serious" :

fiat lux ...

[-] 3 points by GypsyKing (8708) 12 years ago

I really like these ideas, but I don't know if this is possible between now and November. If not that we should get right on the creation of a third party as soon as the election is over. I think that's the direction we have to go in. I think the main problem in the short run is time, and also the fact that somehow we need to unite a third party around a platform agreeable, or at least acceptable to all concerned - not an easy task.

Personally, I think RP is the most aggressive proponent of the 1% out there.

[-] -2 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

I concur that very little is electorally possible until after the election. Tho' I don't actually wish it upon The Good Citizens of The USA ; somewhat paradoxically, the impetus and prospects of 'another way' and a Third Party, are likely to be strategically aided and abetted by the election of a 'Republican' because any one of the possible candidates is extremely likely to be even more antipathetic to The 99% - without so much of the 'Oblah-blah', charm, lip service and 'smoke and mirrors' !

On the matter of the "need to unite around a platform" ; the situation'd be much eased and alleviated I feel, by the increased engagement the very existence of a Third Party would bring as well as working hard for increased voter registration and more emphasis on a 'Party Manifesto and Platform' rather than more of the same standard US 'Personality Cult Driven' modus operandi for 'politicians' !!

Platform & Policies must trump 'Personalities' IF The 99% are NOT to be conned and co-opted again !!!

at spes non fracta ...

[-] 3 points by GypsyKing (8708) 12 years ago

I agree on all you say here completely!!!

[-] 2 points by GypsyKing (8708) 12 years ago

Well, re-reading it, I agree with everything exept another Republican election. I just don't know if the world will survive that.

[-] -2 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

LOL !!! Tho' I accept that it's definitely no laughing matter !! Poster 'toukarin' below also thought that that'd be a "shock therapy ... too far" !

However, consider that IF such a thing were to happen though, one could always perhaps see "That The Only Way Is Up" ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UtKADQnjQmc ) ... and that "Things Can Only Get Better" { http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XTWm0s7ZwDY } !!

dum spiro, spero ...

[-] 2 points by GypsyKing (8708) 12 years ago

I understand your point, but I genuinely see great parellels between our situation and that of Germany before the burning of the Reichstag; and that didn't turn out so well. It's easier to put certain people in power than it is to get them out again.

[-] -2 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

That, 'GK' is rather a disturbingly salutary, scary & sobering point and my brain is quite jolted at the cold, hard truth of your words !!!

absit omen ...

[-] 2 points by GypsyKing (8708) 12 years ago

Consider that my humble attempt to sound the claxon.

[-] -2 points by shadz66 (19985) 12 years ago

'GK' : That was less a "humble attempt to sound the claxon" and more a blaring trumpet of doom blown in one's ear during a comfy kip in an armchair in front of a roaring open fire !!!

It made me jolt and remember a lot of things that I have thought and said in the past on the matter of "An Overtly Fascist U$A", things that are so Dark that I generally keep them to myself these days !!

On the matter of salutary "klaxon call", tho' you may well have seen them, here's a link again to the important documentary "The Warning" : http://video.pbs.org/video/1302794657/ as well as a link to short video (courtesy of poster 'beautifulworld') from another thread : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w2nZbo8SKbg re. Senator Byron Dorgan (D-ND) from 1999, which will be self-explanatory !

"hinc illae lacrimae"...

[+] -6 points by ZenDogTroll (13032) from South Burlington, VT 12 years ago

So how do we open American unions to the idea of open enrollment?

[-] 2 points by MattLHolck (16833) from San Diego, CA 12 years ago

support from non-members?

[+] -6 points by ZenDogTroll (13032) from South Burlington, VT 12 years ago

Non members will have to make the case that it is to a direct advantage of the Union, and be able to anticipate and counter arguments put forth opposing an open enrollment.

[-] 2 points by MattLHolck (16833) from San Diego, CA 12 years ago

labor power is worth more than dues in supporting the union

[+] -6 points by ZenDogTroll (13032) from South Burlington, VT 12 years ago

that is one central piece of the argument - the issue is in making a convincing case where the perception may run counter to this simple principle, and in understanding the sources of support behind such contrary perceptions.

[-] 2 points by MattLHolck (16833) from San Diego, CA 12 years ago

I read that Union leaders are not be members of the union

that doesn't seem right

sorry if I wander off target

just trying to get a handle on the issue

[+] -6 points by ZenDogTroll (13032) from South Burlington, VT 12 years ago

It could be - I'm not a member so I don't know how that all works.