American leaders and their loyal media pundits love to sit in judgment of other countries’ election, declaring them fair or rigged according to their seemingly meticulous standards. In fact, the real standard is that the regimes “we” like hold free and fair (enough) elections, while the regimes “we” dislike don’t. What about regimes “we” like that hold no elections at all, like Saudi Arabia? They are forgotten whenever the loveliness of democracy is the topic of discussion.
Tag: property
Liberty is Among Self-Evident Truths
Many times over the years people have demanded proof that liberty is better than the alternative. Sometimes the detail being questioned changes — maybe it’s the concept of human rights or ethics they are objecting to — but the argument is the same. They don’t accept the superiority of liberty over whatever they’d prefer, so they demand proof.
On Qualified Immunity II
Most people are (rightly) held responsible for their destructive actions toward other people or their property. If I damage you in some way, accidentally or intentionally, I am held liable and forced to make amends, be it retribution against me or restitution for you.
Arguments for Government Work against It
Any argument against the idea of having a free society — one free of political government — also works against the idea of having such a government holding society down.
About that “Real Estate Dispute” in Sheikh Jarrah
When the Israeli government describes the conflict over the Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood of East Jerusalem as just a “real-estate dispute,” it has a point.
Anarchist Government?
In one of my recent “Blips” I wrote:
Is anarchy “a system”?
It comes down to what someone means by “system”.
If “system” means a general way to do things, sure.
But if they mean an institution with someone “in charge” who imposes their will, no.
Sam…
FDA Targets Black and Other Minority Smokers
Just when we are reminded that unnecessary conflict between the police and the people, especially in poorer black communities, is a poison to be eliminated forthwith, the Biden administration has moved in the wrong direction. Late last month the administration signaled that it wants to ban menthol cigarettes, which are especially popular with black smokers.
Won’t Sacrifice Liberty for Worst of Us
There will always be some members of the population set on killing each other over petty squabbles and imagined slights. Nothing you and I can do will ever change this; nothing government can do will stop it. Some people are just determined to be uncivilized. They may even prefer living this way, and wouldn’t change if given every chance. You will be more free once you realize this truth.
Corporations Are Getting Rich Off Government Aid
Congress passed the $2.2 trillion HEROES Act. House Democrats said it gives money to “governments who desperately need funds.” But it also gives lots of money to people who don’t need funds.
Time to Right Marijuana Wrongs
Once a State’s marijuana rules have changed, everyone with marijuana charges on their record should get a clean slate. At least where marijuana is concerned. Then they need to be paid the restitution they are owed by those who harmed them.