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The Morning Rant: Minimalist Edition
The abundance agenda is a collection of policy reforms designed to make it easier to build housing and infrastructure and for government bureaucracy to work. Despite its cheerful name and earnest intention to find win-win solutions, the abundance agenda contains a radical critique of the past half century of American government. On top of that—and this is what has set off clanging alarms on the left—it is a direct attack on the constellation of activist organizations, often called “the groups,” that control progressive politics and have significant influence over the Democratic Party.
So why am I plaguing you with this? Well, it was sent to me by a friend whose opinions I value, so I read the whole damned thing. I figure you should suffer too! But I will let him have the first comment:
This is a fascinating article. It illustrates both the "true socialism has never been tried and we must do more socialism" and the "our intentions are pure therefore we must impose our rule at any cost" fallacies which allow these people to completely ignore whether any of their underlying beliefs about governments ability to create prosperity and "equality" are actually valid. The commentary about the Whigs and the Democrats ignores the reality that the government was impeding the societal change behind the growing anti slavery movement and completely misrepresented the origin of the Republican Party as a result of the abolitionist movement. Think about who are the slaves created and perpetuated by further implementation of the "Progressive" school of thought.
Exactly. But it is even worse. The empowerment of tiny pressure groups such as the lunatic environmentalists who hide their socialist agenda among the scrub brush and bait fish they claim to represent is seen not as the disenfranchisement of America, but as a policy issue. The destruction of states rights is simply ignored, because remember, the explicit assumption is that the federal government is a force for good...we just have to tweak it a bit to make it more efficient! As I said to my friend: "An honest author would have examined the true counter-proposal to government control and NGO veto-power over almost everything -- minimalist government that allows the 50 states to return to their roles as crucibles of experimentation." It is of course theoretically possible to improve the efficiency of government and ensure that its efforts are not simply a waste of taxpayer money with an accompanying destruction of our rights. Theoretically. But we have been trying for 250 years and have just gotten worse at it. So the counter-proposal of shrinking government to the basics is a powerful option. But first we have to destroy the assumptions about government's proper role in society. We must question the shibboleths that the left holds dear, and start from the proposition that they are antithetical to a free society! Why should government fund medical care for able-bodied people?
Why should government take our money for a country-wide retirement fund?
Why should government possess so much of the country's land?
Why should government be involved in the education of our children?
Why should government interfere in private property rights? Francis Fukuyama wrote about how healthy societies acquire "social capital," which is nothing more than virtue. Dependability, trustworthiness, loyalty, honesty, etc. By allowing government to replace the functions of church, community, family, we are eroding the bedrock of society, which is the creation of that social capital. And that is exactly the goal of the progressive movement...the architects of big government! They seek an America that is fragmented into pressure groups and racial groups and ethnic groups and class divisions, all of which are pitted against each other in a never-ending battle for government support. Sounds like a dystopian hell-hole, and the alternative of small government that simply leaves us alone is a wonderful vision for our future.
[Crossposted at CutJibNewsletter and X/Twitter] And the Apple and Spotify feeds for CJN's podcast should be working!
Comments
(Jump to bottom of comments)1
FIRST!!!!!
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at May 29, 2025 11:00 AM (Zz0t1)
2
I'll let the others know this one's live.
Posted by: Grumpy and Recalcitrant at May 29, 2025 11:00 AM (O7YUW)
3
TL;DR
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at May 29, 2025 11:01 AM (Zz0t1)
4
Well done, Sponge!
Posted by: Grumpy and Recalcitrant at May 29, 2025 11:01 AM (O7YUW)
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at May 29, 2025 11:02 AM (Zz0t1)
6
BOING!
Posted by: Biden's Dog sniffs a whole lotta malarkey, at May 29, 2025 11:03 AM (/92YE)
7
Why should government fund medical care for able-bodied people anyone?
=======
FIFY.
Why is government a replacement option for private charity?
=======
FIFY.
Why is government a replacement option for private charity?
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 11:03 AM (GBKbO)
8
>> Francis Fukuyama wrote about how healthy societies acquire "social capital," which is nothing more than virtue. Dependability, trustworthiness, loyalty, honesty, etc.
America used to be a high-trust country. The left have turned us into a low-trust country.
America used to be a high-trust country. The left have turned us into a low-trust country.
Posted by: Disinterested FDA Director at May 29, 2025 11:04 AM (l3YAf)
9
Why should government take our money for a country-wide retirement fund?
====
What fund? There's a fund?
====
What fund? There's a fund?
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 11:04 AM (GBKbO)
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at May 29, 2025 11:04 AM (Zz0t1)
11
"Why should government take our money for a country-wide retirement fund?"
Unfortunately, many people would never prepare and would become a burden to "society". And our education system has ingrained the socialist system in students' brains, so there are "expectations".
Charitable Giving for those with true needs could work, but not for the masses that are now become dependents. Reworking the education system and instilling basic values (churches?) might help.
Unfortunately, many people would never prepare and would become a burden to "society". And our education system has ingrained the socialist system in students' brains, so there are "expectations".
Charitable Giving for those with true needs could work, but not for the masses that are now become dependents. Reworking the education system and instilling basic values (churches?) might help.
Posted by: illiniwek at May 29, 2025 11:04 AM (vbXSk)
12
I saw Dystopian Hellhole open for Big Head Todd at Gazzari's in '83.
Posted by: Cicero (@cicero43) at May 29, 2025 11:05 AM (hY4dx)
13
So, a how to manual on building a shithole. Okay.
Posted by: Pudinhead at May 29, 2025 11:05 AM (n17eQ)
14
"our intentions are pure therefore we must impose our rule at any cost"
Tyranny of the well-intentioned. Once most people feel justified that they're doing it for your own good ? Nothing is off the table.
Economic abundance. Morality. You name it. Its a constant theme.
Tyranny of the well-intentioned. Once most people feel justified that they're doing it for your own good ? Nothing is off the table.
Economic abundance. Morality. You name it. Its a constant theme.
Posted by: Mike Armstrong at May 29, 2025 11:05 AM (ZK0nb)
15
I'm sure the Democrats, after several hours of this sort of introspection will conclude that violent suppression of the right is the only answer.
They've been telling us this for decades.
I'd take them at their word.
They've been telling us this for decades.
I'd take them at their word.
Posted by: Martini Farmer at May 29, 2025 11:05 AM (Q4IgG)
16
Sounds like a dystopian hell-hole, and the alternative of small government that simply leaves us alone is a wonderful vision for our future.
Are you afraid of being arrested writing such things from France?
Are you afraid of being arrested writing such things from France?
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at May 29, 2025 11:07 AM (Zz0t1)
17
States don’t have rights, they have power. What people call “states rights “ is really a debate between placing power at the state or national level.
Posted by: Don at May 29, 2025 11:07 AM (TDaN8)
18
"They seek an America that is fragmented into pressure groups and racial groups and ethnic groups and class divisions, all of which are pitted against each other in a never-ending battle for government support."
Which they control and then can favor this group or that group as they will.
Which they control and then can favor this group or that group as they will.
Posted by: Aetius451AD at May 29, 2025 11:07 AM (bss/y)
19
If only the coming Democrat civil war could be both hot and literal.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, buy ammo at May 29, 2025 11:07 AM (xcxpd)
20
FIFY.
Why is government a replacement option for private charity?
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 11:03 AM (GBKbO)
I’m not strictly opposed to a safety net to keep the truly needy off the streets, but it should come after charity is exhausted and be administered at the state or local level. It should come with the expectation that people who are able to contribute back do so, and should be a short-term solution until the people can be put in touch with a private charity that can assist them.
Why is government a replacement option for private charity?
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 11:03 AM (GBKbO)
I’m not strictly opposed to a safety net to keep the truly needy off the streets, but it should come after charity is exhausted and be administered at the state or local level. It should come with the expectation that people who are able to contribute back do so, and should be a short-term solution until the people can be put in touch with a private charity that can assist them.
Posted by: Disinterested FDA Director at May 29, 2025 11:07 AM (l3YAf)
21
19 If only the coming Democrat civil war could be both hot and literal.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, buy ammo at May 29, 2025 11:07 AM (xcxpd)
=====
Hot like jalapenos? Literal like a book?
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, buy ammo at May 29, 2025 11:07 AM (xcxpd)
=====
Hot like jalapenos? Literal like a book?
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 11:07 AM (GBKbO)
22
Ho Lee Fukuyama
Wi Tu Lo
Wi Tu Lo
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at May 29, 2025 11:08 AM (Zz0t1)
23
Latest news is that the Dems have invested $20 million to study how they might communicate Dystopian Hellhole in a way that attracts normal voters.
Posted by: Cicero (@cicero43) at May 29, 2025 11:08 AM (hY4dx)
24
and congrats to Sponge
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, buy ammo at May 29, 2025 11:08 AM (xcxpd)
25
Those items you list of government involvement mostly started with good intentions to provide for the general welfare and beneficial to the union and citizens. But as we all know every government ‘good intention’ morphs into a nightmare of loss of freedom and taking from providers to give to non providers to get their vote.
If we had a law that only providers could vote we would have less non providers and a stronger Country.
If we had a law that only providers could vote we would have less non providers and a stronger Country.
Posted by: polynikes at May 29, 2025 11:08 AM (VofaG)
26
They seek an America that is fragmented into pressure groups and racial groups and ethnic groups and class divisions, all of which are pitted against each other in a never-ending battle for government support.
Not seeing the problem here.
Not seeing the problem here.
Posted by: Government at May 29, 2025 11:08 AM (s8j++)
27
If only the coming Democrat civil war could be both hot and literal.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, buy ammo at May 29, 2025 11:07 AM (xcxpd)
Literally!
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, buy ammo at May 29, 2025 11:07 AM (xcxpd)
Literally!
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at May 29, 2025 11:08 AM (Zz0t1)
28
20 I’m not strictly opposed to a safety net to keep the truly needy off the streets, but it should come after charity is exhausted and be administered at the state or local level. It should come with the expectation that people who are able to contribute back do so, and should be a short-term solution until the people can be put in touch with a private charity that can assist them.
Posted by: Disinterested FDA Director at May 29, 2025 11:07 AM (l3YAf)
======
I am strictly opposed to it.
Every welfare scheme we have started as you suggested, and private charity actively took back seats because government was offering to do it for them.
Charity is expensive and hard work. Government's offering to do it for "free"? Why not?
Posted by: Disinterested FDA Director at May 29, 2025 11:07 AM (l3YAf)
======
I am strictly opposed to it.
Every welfare scheme we have started as you suggested, and private charity actively took back seats because government was offering to do it for them.
Charity is expensive and hard work. Government's offering to do it for "free"? Why not?
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 11:09 AM (GBKbO)
29
and congrats to Sponge
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, buy ammo at May 29, 2025 11:08 AM (xcxpd)
*fistbump*
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, buy ammo at May 29, 2025 11:08 AM (xcxpd)
*fistbump*
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at May 29, 2025 11:09 AM (Zz0t1)
30
What we need is moar education and high speed trains!!!
Posted by: Pudinhead at May 29, 2025 11:09 AM (n17eQ)
31
The left wants to place as much power as possible at the national level. Otherwise they face the problem where states like New York and California lose population.
Posted by: Don at May 29, 2025 11:09 AM (TDaN8)
32
17 States don’t have rights, they have power. What people call “states rights “ is really a debate between placing power at the state or national level.
Posted by: Don at May 29, 2025 11:07 AM (TDaN
PEOPLE HAVE RIGHTS.
Posted by: Don at May 29, 2025 11:07 AM (TDaN
PEOPLE HAVE RIGHTS.
Posted by: Aetius451AD at May 29, 2025 11:10 AM (bss/y)
33
To be clear, all of these illegal injunctions claim they are citing to the Constitution as the basis:
Appointments Clause, Due Care Clause, Due Process, etc.
But that's a flat-out lie: It's the law passed by Congress that must be under reviewed first and the President's action under a rational basis test.
And so, they are intentionally skipping past that because they know they are bound, tight and strict, by the volumes and volumes of prior rulings they built that says, "We must review this action on whether there is any rational basis, even if we don't like it, for the action."
So what it is, is another disingenuous and hypocritical leap-frog of their own rules to manufacture their own personal policy preferences by lying and claiming there are Constitutional questions implicated.
Any other President would be given an immediate dismissal upon an almost automatic finding that there was a rational basis--forcing any Constitutional questions over to appeal.
Anyway, it's all part of the rigged game to gussy up their politics as a merely objective review.
Like standing.
Appointments Clause, Due Care Clause, Due Process, etc.
But that's a flat-out lie: It's the law passed by Congress that must be under reviewed first and the President's action under a rational basis test.
And so, they are intentionally skipping past that because they know they are bound, tight and strict, by the volumes and volumes of prior rulings they built that says, "We must review this action on whether there is any rational basis, even if we don't like it, for the action."
So what it is, is another disingenuous and hypocritical leap-frog of their own rules to manufacture their own personal policy preferences by lying and claiming there are Constitutional questions implicated.
Any other President would be given an immediate dismissal upon an almost automatic finding that there was a rational basis--forcing any Constitutional questions over to appeal.
Anyway, it's all part of the rigged game to gussy up their politics as a merely objective review.
Like standing.
Posted by: People's Hippo Voice at May 29, 2025 11:10 AM (P9rYY)
34
If only the coming Democrat civil war could be both hot and literal.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, buy ammo at May 29, 2025 11:07 AM (xcxpd)
Literally!
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at May 29, 2025 11:08 AM (Zz0t1)
It kind of is, already. Ask that health care guy in Manhattan...
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, buy ammo at May 29, 2025 11:07 AM (xcxpd)
Literally!
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at May 29, 2025 11:08 AM (Zz0t1)
It kind of is, already. Ask that health care guy in Manhattan...
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at May 29, 2025 11:10 AM (hujmF)
35
>>>Chait is a wonderful example of the that smug and superior… tone.
He attended the University of Michigan. They are pretty much all like that, especially their sports fans.
He attended the University of Michigan. They are pretty much all like that, especially their sports fans.
Posted by: one hour sober at May 29, 2025 11:11 AM (Y1sOo)
36
31 The left wants to place as much power as possible at the national level. Otherwise they face the problem where states like New York and California lose population.
---------------
The answer is Yankees importing slaves promising free healthcare to illegals. Did you miss that clue?
---------------
The answer is Yankees importing slaves promising free healthcare to illegals. Did you miss that clue?
Posted by: Pudinhead at May 29, 2025 11:11 AM (n17eQ)
37
34 It kind of is, already. Ask that health care guy in Manhattan...
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at May 29, 2025 11:10 AM (hujmF)
=======
The far left is so mad and impotent outside of blue enclaves, that their only targets can be the other members of their own big-tent coalition.
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at May 29, 2025 11:10 AM (hujmF)
=======
The far left is so mad and impotent outside of blue enclaves, that their only targets can be the other members of their own big-tent coalition.
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 11:11 AM (GBKbO)
38
It's what Borg do.
Posted by: DaveA at May 29, 2025 11:11 AM (FhXTo)
39
The left wants to place as much power as possible at the national level. Otherwise they face the problem where states like New York and California lose population.
Posted by: Don at May 29, 2025 11:09 AM (TDaN
I call them Pakistan and East Pakistan.
Posted by: Don at May 29, 2025 11:09 AM (TDaN
I call them Pakistan and East Pakistan.
Posted by: polynikes at May 29, 2025 11:12 AM (VofaG)
40
Abundance agenda sounds exactly like what it is: some focus group-tested phrase intended to disguise their real intentions. Please tell me the last three leftist governments that produced abundance. Okay, I'll settle for two. One?
Posted by: Archimedes at May 29, 2025 11:12 AM (s8j++)
41
Are you afraid of being arrested writing such things from France?
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at May 29, 2025 11:07 AM (Zz0t1)
No...not yet.
But the UK? Im not so sure I would be so forthright with my opinions.
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at May 29, 2025 11:07 AM (Zz0t1)
No...not yet.
But the UK? Im not so sure I would be so forthright with my opinions.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at May 29, 2025 11:12 AM (6FSdT)
42
I am strictly opposed to it.
Every welfare scheme we have started as you suggested, and private charity actively took back seats because government was offering to do it for them.
Charity is expensive and hard work. Government's offering to do it for "free"? Why not?
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 11:09 AM (GBKbO)
Oh, and no one seems better off.
Every welfare scheme we have started as you suggested, and private charity actively took back seats because government was offering to do it for them.
Charity is expensive and hard work. Government's offering to do it for "free"? Why not?
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 11:09 AM (GBKbO)
Oh, and no one seems better off.
Posted by: The Central Scrutinizer at May 29, 2025 11:12 AM (KbCG3)
43
40 Abundance agenda sounds exactly like what it is: some focus group-tested phrase intended to disguise their real intentions. Please tell me the last three leftist governments that produced abundance. Okay, I'll settle for two. One?
Posted by: Archimedes at May 29, 2025 11:12 AM (s8j++)
======
Norway!
Which refuses to call itself socialist and fully funds its government by selling dirty, dirty oil to the world.
Posted by: Archimedes at May 29, 2025 11:12 AM (s8j++)
======
Norway!
Which refuses to call itself socialist and fully funds its government by selling dirty, dirty oil to the world.
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 11:12 AM (GBKbO)
44
Speaking of Chaits, that coffee has done its work on my guts, and I need to go take one.
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at May 29, 2025 11:12 AM (hujmF)
45
No...not yet.
But the UK? Im not so sure I would be so forthright with my opinions.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at May 29, 2025 11:12 AM (6FSdT)
Valid.
Tommy Robinson DID get out of prison this week.
But the UK? Im not so sure I would be so forthright with my opinions.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at May 29, 2025 11:12 AM (6FSdT)
Valid.
Tommy Robinson DID get out of prison this week.
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at May 29, 2025 11:13 AM (Zz0t1)
46
>> Unfortunately, many people would never prepare and would become a burden to "society". And our education system has ingrained the socialist system in students' brains, so there are "expectations".
Why shouldn’t they rely on their families to take care of them in old age. For thousands of years your “retirement fund” was your children.
Why shouldn’t they rely on their families to take care of them in old age. For thousands of years your “retirement fund” was your children.
Posted by: Disinterested FDA Director at May 29, 2025 11:13 AM (l3YAf)
47
‘ Jonathan Chait has a long and dishonest career demonizing the right and lionizing the left.’
This is tantamount to quoting a troll in the comments.
This is tantamount to quoting a troll in the comments.
Posted by: Dr. Claw at May 29, 2025 11:13 AM (jbnUc)
48
Speaking of Chaits, that coffee has done its work on my guts, and I need to go take one.
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at May 29, 2025 11:12 AM (hujmF)
"Make sure you clean your Chait to prevent chaffing!"
- - - - - Public Service Announcement
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at May 29, 2025 11:12 AM (hujmF)
"Make sure you clean your Chait to prevent chaffing!"
- - - - - Public Service Announcement
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at May 29, 2025 11:13 AM (Zz0t1)
49
PEOPLE HAVE RIGHTS.
Posted by: Aetius451AD at May 29, 2025 11:10 AM (bss/y)
In practice ? Nope. Even US History shows us that.
Its all about power. That Constitution and Bill of Rights are just pieces of paper. Neither are going to get up and do a damn thing for or against you.
Posted by: Aetius451AD at May 29, 2025 11:10 AM (bss/y)
In practice ? Nope. Even US History shows us that.
Its all about power. That Constitution and Bill of Rights are just pieces of paper. Neither are going to get up and do a damn thing for or against you.
Posted by: Mike Armstrong at May 29, 2025 11:13 AM (ZK0nb)
50
Why should government take our money for a country-wide retirement fund?
====
What fund? There's a fund?
Posted by: TheJamesMadison
It's in a lock box.
Why should government take our money for a country-wide retirement fund?
====
What fund? There's a fund?
Posted by: TheJamesMadison
It's in a lock box.
Posted by: Bertram Cabot, Jr. at May 29, 2025 11:14 AM (63Dwl)
51
>Chait is a wonderful example of the that smug and superior… tone.
He attended the University of Michigan. They are pretty much all like that, especially their sports fans.
Posted by: one hour sober at May 29, 2025 11:11 AM (Y1sOo)
You don’t happen to be a graduate of THE Ohio State University do you?
He attended the University of Michigan. They are pretty much all like that, especially their sports fans.
Posted by: one hour sober at May 29, 2025 11:11 AM (Y1sOo)
You don’t happen to be a graduate of THE Ohio State University do you?
Posted by: polynikes at May 29, 2025 11:14 AM (VofaG)
52
It should come with the expectation that people who are able to contribute back do so, and should be a short-term solution
One of the advantages of being 29 is that you've been around long enough to have seen it all before. What you call for is precisely what the welfare reform of the '90s was supposed to achieve. As time passes, though, exceptions and loopholes multiply and cling to the policy like barnacles, until the original intent has been completely defeated.
One of the advantages of being 29 is that you've been around long enough to have seen it all before. What you call for is precisely what the welfare reform of the '90s was supposed to achieve. As time passes, though, exceptions and loopholes multiply and cling to the policy like barnacles, until the original intent has been completely defeated.
Posted by: Archimedes at May 29, 2025 11:15 AM (s8j++)
53
Norway!
Which refuses to call itself socialist and fully funds its government by selling dirty, dirty oil to the world.
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 11:12 AM (GBKbO)
Aren't all Euro nations soccialist? None of them CALL themselves that, tho.
Norway!
Which refuses to call itself socialist and fully funds its government by selling dirty, dirty oil to the world.
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 11:12 AM (GBKbO)
Aren't all Euro nations soccialist? None of them CALL themselves that, tho.
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at May 29, 2025 11:15 AM (Zz0t1)
54
the alternative of small government that simply leaves us alone is a wonderful vision for our future.
----------
It's my definition of being a conservative.
----------
It's my definition of being a conservative.
Posted by: Dr. Pork Chops & Bacons at May 29, 2025 11:15 AM (g8Ew8)
55
46 >> Unfortunately, many people would never prepare and would become a burden to "society". And our education system has ingrained the socialist system in students' brains, so there are "expectations".
Why shouldn’t they rely on their families to take care of them in old age. For thousands of years your “retirement fund” was your children.
Posted by: Disinterested FDA Director at May 29, 2025 11:13 AM (l3YAf)
"Yes, but if I have kids, how can I live my life to the fullest?" - People who call themselves dog moms
Why shouldn’t they rely on their families to take care of them in old age. For thousands of years your “retirement fund” was your children.
Posted by: Disinterested FDA Director at May 29, 2025 11:13 AM (l3YAf)
"Yes, but if I have kids, how can I live my life to the fullest?" - People who call themselves dog moms
Posted by: The Central Scrutinizer at May 29, 2025 11:15 AM (KbCG3)
56
Why should government take our money for a country-wide retirement fund?
====
What fund? There's a fund?
Posted by: TheJamesMadison
It's in a lock box.
Posted by: Bertram Cabot, Jr. at May 29, 2025 11:14 AM (63Dwl)
And they have the key.
I'm sure it will be fine.
====
What fund? There's a fund?
Posted by: TheJamesMadison
It's in a lock box.
Posted by: Bertram Cabot, Jr. at May 29, 2025 11:14 AM (63Dwl)
And they have the key.
I'm sure it will be fine.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, buy ammo at May 29, 2025 11:15 AM (xcxpd)
57
PEOPLE HAVE RIGHTS.
Posted by: Aetius451AD at May 29, 2025 11:10 AM (bss/y)
Only what they can defend.
Posted by: Aetius451AD at May 29, 2025 11:10 AM (bss/y)
Only what they can defend.
Posted by: Disinterested FDA Director at May 29, 2025 11:16 AM (l3YAf)
58
In classical antiquity, the cornucopia, also called the horn of plenty, was a symbol of abundance and nourishment, commonly a large horn-shaped container overflowing with produce, flowers, or nuts.
In classical antiquity, the cornucopia, also called the horn of plenty, was a symbol of abundance and nourishment, commonly a large horn-shaped container overflowing with produce, flowers, or nuts.
Posted by: Bertram Cabot, Jr. at May 29, 2025 11:17 AM (63Dwl)
59
Note well this “high trust society” is not an abstract concept nor a luxury, or one of those “nice things to have”; its loss isn’t merely the lament of old geezers who can safely be ignored; civilization as we all have come to expect is simply not possible without it. Not a chance. It is a wonder this isn’t commonly accepted or recognized, and I include myself in this category.
Posted by: Common Tater at May 29, 2025 11:17 AM (gxIQr)
60
It's in a lock box.
Posted by: Bertram Cabot, Jr. at May 29, 2025 11:14 AM (63Dwl)
And they have the key.
I'm sure it will be fine.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, buy ammo at May 29, 2025 11:15 AM (xcxpd)
I just figured it was the slush fund that gets our intellectual betters out of their sexual harassment allegations.
It's in a lock box.
Posted by: Bertram Cabot, Jr. at May 29, 2025 11:14 AM (63Dwl)
And they have the key.
I'm sure it will be fine.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, buy ammo at May 29, 2025 11:15 AM (xcxpd)
I just figured it was the slush fund that gets our intellectual betters out of their sexual harassment allegations.
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at May 29, 2025 11:17 AM (Zz0t1)
61
Again the Dems should be shedding a lot of support based on their illegal immigration advocacy. If they are not then it’s really time that we split up the country.
Posted by: polynikes at May 29, 2025 11:18 AM (VofaG)
62
It kind of is, already. Ask that health care guy in Manhattan...
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at May 29, 2025 11:10 AM (hujmF)
Or those Jewish kids who just got murdered for being Jewish.
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at May 29, 2025 11:10 AM (hujmF)
Or those Jewish kids who just got murdered for being Jewish.
Posted by: Washington Nearsider, still gloating at May 29, 2025 11:18 AM (oSeBJ)
63
Idle thought...
Let's avoid putting too much virtue on private charities either. As with all things, it depends on who runs them.
Put another way, would you trust a charity run by Stacey Abrams?
Cold fact is that private charities can be easily set up to benefit its own leadership just as much as a government program could.
Let's avoid putting too much virtue on private charities either. As with all things, it depends on who runs them.
Put another way, would you trust a charity run by Stacey Abrams?
Cold fact is that private charities can be easily set up to benefit its own leadership just as much as a government program could.
Posted by: WitchDoktor at May 29, 2025 11:19 AM (oUlN5)
64
It isn't clear to be what constitutes the "basics" of government.
Posted by: Oglebay at May 29, 2025 11:19 AM (2ap+5)
65
56 Why should government take our money for a country-wide retirement fund?
====
What fund? There's a fund?
Posted by: TheJamesMadison
It's in a lock box.
Posted by: Bertram Cabot, Jr. at May 29, 2025 11:14 AM (63Dwl)
And they have the key.
I'm sure it will be fine.
-------------
Heh, I got my first SS check. They are charging me $300 for Medicare while I'm still working and have health insurance. Fuck these guys.
====
What fund? There's a fund?
Posted by: TheJamesMadison
It's in a lock box.
Posted by: Bertram Cabot, Jr. at May 29, 2025 11:14 AM (63Dwl)
And they have the key.
I'm sure it will be fine.
-------------
Heh, I got my first SS check. They are charging me $300 for Medicare while I'm still working and have health insurance. Fuck these guys.
Posted by: Pudinhead at May 29, 2025 11:19 AM (n17eQ)
66
63 Idle thought...
Let's avoid putting too much virtue on private charities either. As with all things, it depends on who runs them.
Put another way, would you trust a charity run by Stacey Abrams?
Cold fact is that private charities can be easily set up to benefit its own leadership just as much as a government program could.
Posted by: WitchDoktor at May 29, 2025 11:19 AM (oUlN5)
=======
Of course.
But private charity doesn't take my money by threat of violence.
Let's avoid putting too much virtue on private charities either. As with all things, it depends on who runs them.
Put another way, would you trust a charity run by Stacey Abrams?
Cold fact is that private charities can be easily set up to benefit its own leadership just as much as a government program could.
Posted by: WitchDoktor at May 29, 2025 11:19 AM (oUlN5)
=======
Of course.
But private charity doesn't take my money by threat of violence.
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 11:19 AM (GBKbO)
67
Aren't all Euro nations soccialist? None of them CALL themselves that, tho.
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at May 29, 2025 11:15 AM (Zz0t1)
How is America not socialist? Over half my money is stolen by government. I can’t but health insurance that’s not approved by Federal commissars. If you start a business the bureaucrats will be after your ass with endless paperwork. I have to pay rent, in the form of property taxes, on my own house that I “own.” The assumption is that you own property or a business only to the extent government agents haven’t decided to meddle with it first.
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at May 29, 2025 11:15 AM (Zz0t1)
How is America not socialist? Over half my money is stolen by government. I can’t but health insurance that’s not approved by Federal commissars. If you start a business the bureaucrats will be after your ass with endless paperwork. I have to pay rent, in the form of property taxes, on my own house that I “own.” The assumption is that you own property or a business only to the extent government agents haven’t decided to meddle with it first.
Posted by: Disinterested FDA Director at May 29, 2025 11:19 AM (l3YAf)
Posted by: Frampton maybe at May 29, 2025 11:20 AM (xcIvR)
Posted by: NPR and PBS at May 29, 2025 11:20 AM (s8j++)
Posted by: one hour sober at May 29, 2025 11:21 AM (Y1sOo)
71
Of course.
But private charity doesn't take my money by threat of violence.
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 11:19 AM (GBKbO)
---
You've clearly never been to my church.
But private charity doesn't take my money by threat of violence.
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 11:19 AM (GBKbO)
---
You've clearly never been to my church.
Posted by: WitchDoktor at May 29, 2025 11:22 AM (oUlN5)
72
Heh, I got my first SS check. They are charging me $300 for Medicare while I'm still working and have health insurance. Fuck these guys.
Posted by: Pudinhead at May 29, 2025 11:19 AM (n17eQ)
You need to check on that. It’s $185 for part A&B and your current insurance should cover the Medicare supplement. Or in the alternative you can delay Medicare if you have insurance through your employer.
Posted by: Pudinhead at May 29, 2025 11:19 AM (n17eQ)
You need to check on that. It’s $185 for part A&B and your current insurance should cover the Medicare supplement. Or in the alternative you can delay Medicare if you have insurance through your employer.
Posted by: polynikes at May 29, 2025 11:22 AM (VofaG)
73
BRILLIANT.
Posted by: Beverly at May 29, 2025 11:22 AM (Epeb0)
74
But it is impressive to watch the legal left and their Judicial handmaidens dismantle the entire facade of power they spent decades building empowering the state merely to gain a temporary check on Trump.
Because they, like their confederates in the Democrat Party, wrongly--and dangerously--believe the issue is Trump.
And not a populace incensed and activated against them.
Not once has the courts stopped the people.
Not their thunderous rhetoric.
Not their dire warnings.
Not their gallons of ink.
Not once.
And not now either.
Because they, like their confederates in the Democrat Party, wrongly--and dangerously--believe the issue is Trump.
And not a populace incensed and activated against them.
Not once has the courts stopped the people.
Not their thunderous rhetoric.
Not their dire warnings.
Not their gallons of ink.
Not once.
And not now either.
Posted by: People's Hippo Voice at May 29, 2025 11:22 AM (P9rYY)
75
But private charity doesn't take my money by threat of violence.
*shifty eyes*
Posted by: NPR and PBS at May 29, 2025 11:20 AM (s8j++)
In neither case does the 'P' stand for 'Private.'
*shifty eyes*
Posted by: NPR and PBS at May 29, 2025 11:20 AM (s8j++)
In neither case does the 'P' stand for 'Private.'
Posted by: Washington Nearsider, still gloating at May 29, 2025 11:22 AM (oSeBJ)
76
Note well this “high trust society” is not an abstract concept nor a luxury, or one of those “nice things to have”; its loss isn’t merely the lament of old geezers who can safely be ignored; civilization as we all have come to expect is simply not possible without it.
I could not disagree more. We are here, in no small part, because of generations that had "high trust" in the United States government. Entire too much trust. Certainly too much trust during the FDR era and beyond.
We will be better off - far better - by having much less trust. Perhaps half would still be to much.
I could not disagree more. We are here, in no small part, because of generations that had "high trust" in the United States government. Entire too much trust. Certainly too much trust during the FDR era and beyond.
We will be better off - far better - by having much less trust. Perhaps half would still be to much.
Posted by: Mike Armstrong at May 29, 2025 11:22 AM (ZK0nb)
77
8
‘ America used to be a high-trust country. The left have turned us into a low-trust country.’
Destroying the bond between the citizens and their government. That’s what did in ancient Rome.
‘ America used to be a high-trust country. The left have turned us into a low-trust country.’
Destroying the bond between the citizens and their government. That’s what did in ancient Rome.
Posted by: Dr. Claw at May 29, 2025 11:22 AM (jbnUc)
78
71 Of course.
But private charity doesn't take my money by threat of violence.
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 11:19 AM (GBKbO)
---
You've clearly never been to my church.
Posted by: WitchDoktor at May 29, 2025 11:22 AM (oUlN5)
=====
"Deus Vult!"
-holding the parishioners up
But private charity doesn't take my money by threat of violence.
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 11:19 AM (GBKbO)
---
You've clearly never been to my church.
Posted by: WitchDoktor at May 29, 2025 11:22 AM (oUlN5)
=====
"Deus Vult!"
-holding the parishioners up
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 11:22 AM (GBKbO)
79
But private charity doesn't take my money by threat of violence.
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 11:19 AM (GBKbO)
So you never worked at a company that is in The United Way network?
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 11:19 AM (GBKbO)
So you never worked at a company that is in The United Way network?
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at May 29, 2025 11:22 AM (6FSdT)
80
Because they, like their confederates in the Democrat Party, wrongly--and dangerously--believe the issue is Trump.
And not a populace incensed and activated against them.
Posted by: People's Hippo Voice at May 29, 2025 11:22 AM (P9rYY)
The GOP ALSO believes the issue is Trump, hence the 'we can wait him out, then go back to normal' game they're playing.
And not a populace incensed and activated against them.
Posted by: People's Hippo Voice at May 29, 2025 11:22 AM (P9rYY)
The GOP ALSO believes the issue is Trump, hence the 'we can wait him out, then go back to normal' game they're playing.
Posted by: Washington Nearsider, still gloating at May 29, 2025 11:23 AM (oSeBJ)
81
So you never worked at a company that is in The United Way network?
------------
Add the Red Cross, too.
------------
Add the Red Cross, too.
Posted by: Pudinhead at May 29, 2025 11:23 AM (n17eQ)
82
Idle thought...
Let's avoid putting too much virtue on private charities either. As with all things, it depends on who runs them.
Put another way, would you trust a charity run by Stacey Abrams?
Cold fact is that private charities can be easily set up to benefit its own leadership just as much as a government program could.
Posted by: WitchDoktor at May 29, 2025 11:19 AM (oUlN5)
Ixnay on the vealreay.
Let's avoid putting too much virtue on private charities either. As with all things, it depends on who runs them.
Put another way, would you trust a charity run by Stacey Abrams?
Cold fact is that private charities can be easily set up to benefit its own leadership just as much as a government program could.
Posted by: WitchDoktor at May 29, 2025 11:19 AM (oUlN5)
Ixnay on the vealreay.
Posted by: Goodwill CEO at May 29, 2025 11:23 AM (Aqu9a)
83
But the UK? Im not so sure I would be so forthright with my opinions.
---------
Rubio said he wants to halt people opposing free speech from entering the US. I'd assert a great start would be making it known that those in high government in the UK have had their Visas revoked. It would be a great way to start a conversation that is long overdue.
---------
Rubio said he wants to halt people opposing free speech from entering the US. I'd assert a great start would be making it known that those in high government in the UK have had their Visas revoked. It would be a great way to start a conversation that is long overdue.
Posted by: Crusader at May 29, 2025 11:24 AM (TN0g+)
84
Posted by: Mike Armstrong at May 29, 2025 11:22 AM (ZK0nb)
A high trust society has nothing to do with government.
A high trust society has nothing to do with government.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at May 29, 2025 11:24 AM (6FSdT)
85
A high trust society has nothing to do with government.
Disagree. I highly trust the government to screw me over.
Disagree. I highly trust the government to screw me over.
Posted by: Archimedes at May 29, 2025 11:25 AM (s8j++)
86
>>> 11 "Why should government take our money for a country-wide retirement fund?"
Unfortunately, many people would never prepare and would become a burden to "society". And our education system has ingrained the socialist system in students' brains, so there are "expectations".
==
Posted by: illiniwek at May 29, 2025 11:04 AM (vbXSk)
>>> 46
==
Why shouldn’t they rely on their families to take care of them in old age. For thousands of years your “retirement fund” was your children.
Posted by: Disinterested FDA Director at May 29, 2025 11:13 AM (l3YAf)
The very notion of just not working at all, living the remaining decades of your life in leisure, is an extraordinary feature of modern society. Children caring for their parents seems like it would be more difficult without agriculture. istr reading that many tribes in North America would ummmm, thin the herd by crossing a river and leaving behind those who could no longer make it on their own.
Unfortunately, many people would never prepare and would become a burden to "society". And our education system has ingrained the socialist system in students' brains, so there are "expectations".
==
Posted by: illiniwek at May 29, 2025 11:04 AM (vbXSk)
>>> 46
==
Why shouldn’t they rely on their families to take care of them in old age. For thousands of years your “retirement fund” was your children.
Posted by: Disinterested FDA Director at May 29, 2025 11:13 AM (l3YAf)
The very notion of just not working at all, living the remaining decades of your life in leisure, is an extraordinary feature of modern society. Children caring for their parents seems like it would be more difficult without agriculture. istr reading that many tribes in North America would ummmm, thin the herd by crossing a river and leaving behind those who could no longer make it on their own.
Posted by: Helena Handbasket at May 29, 2025 11:25 AM (QRFVs)
87
Add the Red Cross, too.
Posted by: Pudinhead at May 29, 2025 11:23 AM (n17eQ)
I have a story about them. What a bunch of fuck-ups!
Posted by: Pudinhead at May 29, 2025 11:23 AM (n17eQ)
I have a story about them. What a bunch of fuck-ups!
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at May 29, 2025 11:25 AM (6FSdT)
Posted by: Pudinhead at May 29, 2025 11:25 AM (n17eQ)
89
87 Add the Red Cross, too.
Posted by: Pudinhead at May 29, 2025 11:23 AM (n17eQ)
I have a story about them. What a bunch of fuck-ups!
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at May 29, 2025 11:25 AM (6FSdT)
======
Rant idea: that.
Posted by: Pudinhead at May 29, 2025 11:23 AM (n17eQ)
I have a story about them. What a bunch of fuck-ups!
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at May 29, 2025 11:25 AM (6FSdT)
======
Rant idea: that.
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 11:26 AM (GBKbO)
90
We are currently dealing with the government's heavy-handed approach to making content "accessible" to EVERY SINGLE PERSON ON THE PLANET WITH NO EXCEPTIONS.
Naturally, this has our faculty a bit concerned, especially those who distribute hand-written PDF documents to their students. With lots of equations. And calculations with mistakes scribbled out and cancellations of terms. None of this will meet government requirements, which go into effect April 24, 2026.
It's a law written by idiots for idiots who have no understanding of people.
Naturally, this has our faculty a bit concerned, especially those who distribute hand-written PDF documents to their students. With lots of equations. And calculations with mistakes scribbled out and cancellations of terms. None of this will meet government requirements, which go into effect April 24, 2026.
It's a law written by idiots for idiots who have no understanding of people.
Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel at May 29, 2025 11:26 AM (7fElN)
91
60 I just figured it was the slush fund that gets our intellectual betters out of their sexual harassment allegations.
slushee fund > slush fund
slushee fund > slush fund
Posted by: 7-11 at May 29, 2025 11:26 AM (sGtp+)
92
We are currently dealing with the government's heavy-handed approach to making content "accessible" to EVERY SINGLE PERSON ON THE PLANET WITH NO EXCEPTIONS.
Naturally, this has our faculty a bit concerned, especially those who distribute hand-written PDF documents to their students. With lots of equations. And calculations with mistakes scribbled out and cancellations of terms. None of this will meet government requirements, which go into effect April 24, 2026.
It's a law written by idiots for idiots who have no understanding of people.
I think you're forgetting that they need to protect their phoney-baloney jobs.
Naturally, this has our faculty a bit concerned, especially those who distribute hand-written PDF documents to their students. With lots of equations. And calculations with mistakes scribbled out and cancellations of terms. None of this will meet government requirements, which go into effect April 24, 2026.
It's a law written by idiots for idiots who have no understanding of people.
I think you're forgetting that they need to protect their phoney-baloney jobs.
Posted by: Archimedes at May 29, 2025 11:27 AM (s8j++)
93
“Government is that great fiction, where everyone believes they can live at someone else’s expense”
Somebody, maybe Mencken. With a phony baloney fictional currency, the scam can go on for quite a while. Post war (the 2.0 world war, that one) Bretton woods agreements made the US dollar the world currency. Profligate spending scuttled that arrangement, and certain agreements with the Saudi Arabians were made with respect to a now “floating” currency.
Wages have been stagnant since 1975, and the balance of trade went negative. Deficit spending, and a host of pseudo-intellectual “experts” to try and explain to the rubes why all this rot and destruction and dystopia a Good Thing.
Somebody, maybe Mencken. With a phony baloney fictional currency, the scam can go on for quite a while. Post war (the 2.0 world war, that one) Bretton woods agreements made the US dollar the world currency. Profligate spending scuttled that arrangement, and certain agreements with the Saudi Arabians were made with respect to a now “floating” currency.
Wages have been stagnant since 1975, and the balance of trade went negative. Deficit spending, and a host of pseudo-intellectual “experts” to try and explain to the rubes why all this rot and destruction and dystopia a Good Thing.
Posted by: Common Tater at May 29, 2025 11:27 AM (GC8wC)
94
72. Polynikes is correct. Get an online account and see what you are being charged for. Be aware that there are income thresholds to Medicare which increase your premium should you exceed those due to working, house sale, etc. Great resource is Boomer Benefits website. Lots of accurate info there.
Posted by: Jen the original at May 29, 2025 11:27 AM (p6xbI)
95
"They seek an America that is fragmented into pressure groups and racial groups and ethnic groups and class divisions, all of which are pitted against each other in a never-ending battle for government support. Sounds like a dystopian hell-hole."
True Thunderdome has never been tried, yo!
True Thunderdome has never been tried, yo!
Posted by: Elric Blade at May 29, 2025 11:27 AM (iFTx/)
96
95 True Thunderdome has never been tried, yo!
Posted by: Elric Blade at May 29, 2025 11:27 AM (iFTx/)
======
I don't think Tina is in the proper shape to manage it anymore, though.
Beyonce instead?
Posted by: Elric Blade at May 29, 2025 11:27 AM (iFTx/)
======
I don't think Tina is in the proper shape to manage it anymore, though.
Beyonce instead?
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 11:28 AM (GBKbO)
97
Weird how no judges ever limit socialism.
Posted by: Its Go Time Donald at May 29, 2025 11:28 AM (A9Vdr)
98
I don't think Tina is in the proper shape to manage it anymore, though.
Beyonce instead?
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 11:28 AM (GBKbO)
That famous Country singer ?
I don't think Tina is in the proper shape to manage it anymore, though.
Beyonce instead?
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 11:28 AM (GBKbO)
That famous Country singer ?
Posted by: It's me donna at May 29, 2025 11:28 AM (VE6XX)
99
Ixnay on the vealreay.
Posted by: Goodwill CEO at May 29, 2025 11:23 AM (Aqu9a)
*throws Pig Latin flag*
Ixnay on the ealrevay
Posted by: Goodwill CEO at May 29, 2025 11:23 AM (Aqu9a)
*throws Pig Latin flag*
Ixnay on the ealrevay
Posted by: RI Red at May 29, 2025 11:29 AM (R6zcv)
100
A high trust society has nothing to do with government.
Then define it. Trust in what, exactly ?
Trust in your fellow man to "do the right thing" ? If that didn't go out the window during Covid and BLM, then what will it take to sink the notion ? Mind you - many a liberal, low information voter, and even some conservatives still wander around in the belief that "people will do the right thing".
Trust in institutions like banks and other corporations ? Again - if TARP didn't sink that for you, what exactly will ?
Trust in government extensions like police and military ? The CDC ? Non-governmental groups like the AMA ? The church ?
Where, exactly, is all this trust justifiably placed ?
Then define it. Trust in what, exactly ?
Trust in your fellow man to "do the right thing" ? If that didn't go out the window during Covid and BLM, then what will it take to sink the notion ? Mind you - many a liberal, low information voter, and even some conservatives still wander around in the belief that "people will do the right thing".
Trust in institutions like banks and other corporations ? Again - if TARP didn't sink that for you, what exactly will ?
Trust in government extensions like police and military ? The CDC ? Non-governmental groups like the AMA ? The church ?
Where, exactly, is all this trust justifiably placed ?
Posted by: Mike Armstrong at May 29, 2025 11:29 AM (ZK0nb)
101
86 istr reading that many tribes in North America would ummmm, thin the herd by crossing a river and leaving behind those who could no longer make it on their own.
as illustrated in the well-known documentary from amazon, "rangzz of powarrr".
as illustrated in the well-known documentary from amazon, "rangzz of powarrr".
Posted by: anachronda at May 29, 2025 11:29 AM (sGtp+)
102
The very notion of just not working at all, living the remaining decades of your life in leisure, is an extraordinary feature of modern society. Children caring for their parents seems like it would be more difficult without agriculture. istr reading that many tribes in North America would ummmm, thin the herd by crossing a river and leaving behind those who could no longer make it on their own.
Posted by: Helena Handbasket at May 29, 2025 11:25 AM (QRFVs)
--
I'd go even further. Retirement IS EXPECTED. If you don't retire, in many circles that's a sign of failure. Moreover there is judgement on the quality of "retirement." Someone who spends time jetting around on cruises and golf courses is seen as more successful than the family staying near their grandkids. And of course the guy who continues working because his skills are in demand or he's just plain bored is inferior to all of them.
Posted by: Helena Handbasket at May 29, 2025 11:25 AM (QRFVs)
--
I'd go even further. Retirement IS EXPECTED. If you don't retire, in many circles that's a sign of failure. Moreover there is judgement on the quality of "retirement." Someone who spends time jetting around on cruises and golf courses is seen as more successful than the family staying near their grandkids. And of course the guy who continues working because his skills are in demand or he's just plain bored is inferior to all of them.
Posted by: WitchDoktor at May 29, 2025 11:29 AM (oUlN5)
103
I’ve never trusted the government but they are a necessary evil because I trust my fellow man even less whose motto is might makes right. There will always be takers who want to screw the makers. Our government has kept them in check for the most part as they gradually turn into the monsters they are supposed to be fighting. It’s the cycle of civilization.
Posted by: polynikes at May 29, 2025 11:29 AM (VofaG)
104
Because they, like their confederates in the Democrat Party, wrongly--and dangerously--believe the issue is Trump.
And not a populace incensed and activated against them.
Posted by: People's Hippo Voice at May 29, 2025 11:22 AM (P9rYY)
The GOP ALSO believes the issue is Trump, hence the 'we can wait him out, then go back to normal' game they're playing.
---------------
Absolutely correct! The GOP isn't interested in stopping the grift because they TOO have benefitted from government bloat.
And not a populace incensed and activated against them.
Posted by: People's Hippo Voice at May 29, 2025 11:22 AM (P9rYY)
The GOP ALSO believes the issue is Trump, hence the 'we can wait him out, then go back to normal' game they're playing.
---------------
Absolutely correct! The GOP isn't interested in stopping the grift because they TOO have benefitted from government bloat.
Posted by: Crusader at May 29, 2025 11:29 AM (TN0g+)
105
>>> 71 Of course.
But private charity doesn't take my money by threat of violence.
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 11:19 AM (GBKbO)
---
You've clearly never been to my church.
Posted by: WitchDoktor at May 29, 2025 11:22 AM (oUlN5)
*blinks*
... time for a new church???
But private charity doesn't take my money by threat of violence.
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 11:19 AM (GBKbO)
---
You've clearly never been to my church.
Posted by: WitchDoktor at May 29, 2025 11:22 AM (oUlN5)
*blinks*
... time for a new church???
Posted by: Helena Handbasket at May 29, 2025 11:30 AM (QRFVs)
106
99 Ixnay on the vealreay.
Posted by: Goodwill CEO at May 29, 2025 11:23 AM (Aqu9a)
*throws Pig Latin flag*
Ixnay on the ealrevay
coincidentally, i woke up this morning to discover that my hovercraft is full of ealrevays.
Posted by: Goodwill CEO at May 29, 2025 11:23 AM (Aqu9a)
*throws Pig Latin flag*
Ixnay on the ealrevay
coincidentally, i woke up this morning to discover that my hovercraft is full of ealrevays.
Posted by: anachronda at May 29, 2025 11:30 AM (sGtp+)
107
Posted by: WitchDoktor at May 29, 2025 11:29 AM (oUlN5)
That bitterness is far from accurate.
IMO
That bitterness is far from accurate.
IMO
Posted by: polynikes at May 29, 2025 11:31 AM (VofaG)
108
e aware that there are income thresholds to Medicare which increase your premium should you exceed those due to working, house sale, etc.
—
Medicare is just welfare by another name. Those who contribute nothing get a lot. Those who contribute a lot get nothing.
SS will turn into this as well. It’s kinda there already. Low income workers get a waaaaaaay better return on their contributions than middle and upper middle workers. This formula will be tweaked to where anyone with $X in assets doesn’t qualify anymore.
—
Medicare is just welfare by another name. Those who contribute nothing get a lot. Those who contribute a lot get nothing.
SS will turn into this as well. It’s kinda there already. Low income workers get a waaaaaaay better return on their contributions than middle and upper middle workers. This formula will be tweaked to where anyone with $X in assets doesn’t qualify anymore.
Posted by: Its Go Time Donald at May 29, 2025 11:31 AM (A9Vdr)
109
Absolutely correct! The GOP isn't interested in stopping the grift because they TOO have benefitted from government bloat.
Exactly. Why do I say this ?
Because 34 GOP Senators could come forward today and give Trump a blank-check to ignore the judiciary by pledging to not convict during impeachment.
Alas, the GOP has not.
Exactly. Why do I say this ?
Because 34 GOP Senators could come forward today and give Trump a blank-check to ignore the judiciary by pledging to not convict during impeachment.
Alas, the GOP has not.
Posted by: Mike Armstrong at May 29, 2025 11:31 AM (ZK0nb)
110
36
‘ The answer is Yankees importing slaves’
We’re still‘benefiting’ from the slaves the Confederates imported.
‘ The answer is Yankees importing slaves’
We’re still‘benefiting’ from the slaves the Confederates imported.
Posted by: Dr. Claw at May 29, 2025 11:32 AM (jbnUc)
111
But private charity doesn't take my money by threat of violence.
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 11:19 AM (GBKbO)
______
Maybe not from you directly. But private charities are in on the government money game too, and all that is eventually paid for by taxpayers (us). So private charities are taking your money.
The entire country is one giant Human Centipede with every motherfucker lined up to shit in your mouth and tell you it's good for you.
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 11:19 AM (GBKbO)
______
Maybe not from you directly. But private charities are in on the government money game too, and all that is eventually paid for by taxpayers (us). So private charities are taking your money.
The entire country is one giant Human Centipede with every motherfucker lined up to shit in your mouth and tell you it's good for you.
Posted by: Elric Blade at May 29, 2025 11:32 AM (iFTx/)
112
Oh, and no one seems better off.
Posted by: The Central Scrutinizer at May 29, 2025 11:12 AM (KbCG3)
some are. for example the standard benefit for burial here is $2000, so the bottom tier Cremate-cardboard box cost is now $2,000
so score!
I go on and on about cartels, but they are specifically groups that move to fix prices high to get the maximum revenue, which involves the least and cheapest effort possible with the least outside competition. They are empowered by the government, "making things right and equitable through regulation" and tend to be incestuous with either the government or with prominent members of it.
The fact that all the undertakers here charge $2K for the base rate is proof of a put and proof of cartelism.
Posted by: The Central Scrutinizer at May 29, 2025 11:12 AM (KbCG3)
some are. for example the standard benefit for burial here is $2000, so the bottom tier Cremate-cardboard box cost is now $2,000
so score!
I go on and on about cartels, but they are specifically groups that move to fix prices high to get the maximum revenue, which involves the least and cheapest effort possible with the least outside competition. They are empowered by the government, "making things right and equitable through regulation" and tend to be incestuous with either the government or with prominent members of it.
The fact that all the undertakers here charge $2K for the base rate is proof of a put and proof of cartelism.
Posted by: Kindltot at May 29, 2025 11:32 AM (D7oie)
113
I'm a newly minted home-owner. I'm finding that it takes continual maintenance to keep it snug and spiffy.
I still have Renter's Brain, however: it's a real shift to realize that you can't just move into a house and have everything work from Now On.
Same thing with nations. Re welfare reform--that was good. I was still a liberal asshat at the time and believed that Clinton was going to throw all these poor people into the streets: but lo and behold! 75% of them got OFF the welfare rolls when they saw they'd have to do part-time work to keep getting benefits, and they got jobs instead.
Three-fourths were gold-bricking.
So. I guess it's time to "paint the house" again!
I still have Renter's Brain, however: it's a real shift to realize that you can't just move into a house and have everything work from Now On.
Same thing with nations. Re welfare reform--that was good. I was still a liberal asshat at the time and believed that Clinton was going to throw all these poor people into the streets: but lo and behold! 75% of them got OFF the welfare rolls when they saw they'd have to do part-time work to keep getting benefits, and they got jobs instead.
Three-fourths were gold-bricking.
So. I guess it's time to "paint the house" again!
Posted by: Beverly at May 29, 2025 11:32 AM (Epeb0)
114
Single filer pays $300 (or more) per month for Medicare Part B if modified adjusted gross income is > $129,000 ($258,000 if married filing jointly) The max monthly premium is $628.90 at $500K ($750K filing jointly)
Posted by: Oglebay at May 29, 2025 11:32 AM (2ap+5)
115
111 Maybe not from you directly. But private charities are in on the government money game too, and all that is eventually paid for by taxpayers (us). So private charities are taking your money.
The entire country is one giant Human Centipede with every motherfucker lined up to shit in your mouth and tell you it's good for you.
Posted by: Elric Blade at May 29, 2025 11:32 AM (iFTx/)
======
Well, my original point was to cut all government charitable giving to nothing. So, in my utopian vision, this would not even be an option.
The entire country is one giant Human Centipede with every motherfucker lined up to shit in your mouth and tell you it's good for you.
Posted by: Elric Blade at May 29, 2025 11:32 AM (iFTx/)
======
Well, my original point was to cut all government charitable giving to nothing. So, in my utopian vision, this would not even be an option.
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 11:32 AM (GBKbO)
116
because of generations that had "high trust" in the United States government.
——
Apples and aircraft carriers. If high trust society encompassed government, even a little, you might have a point.
——
Apples and aircraft carriers. If high trust society encompassed government, even a little, you might have a point.
Posted by: Common Tater at May 29, 2025 11:32 AM (0OORa)
117
True Thunderdome has never been tried, yo!
Posted by: Elric Blade at May 29, 2025 11:27 AM (iFTx/)
======
I don't think Tina is in the proper shape to manage it anymore, though.
Beyonce instead?
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 11:28 AM (GBKbO)
_________
"Fuck you"
-- Master
Posted by: Elric Blade at May 29, 2025 11:27 AM (iFTx/)
======
I don't think Tina is in the proper shape to manage it anymore, though.
Beyonce instead?
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 11:28 AM (GBKbO)
_________
"Fuck you"
-- Master
Posted by: Elric Blade at May 29, 2025 11:33 AM (iFTx/)
118
>>:So you never worked at a company that is in The United Way network?
Oh, man, memories…
When I was in the Navy, there was an annual United Way campaign drive. While it was never stated specifically by the COs or XOs, it was very well known among the junior officers that declining to contribute to United Way would result in a less than favorable ranking on your next fitness report.
Bastards…
Oh, man, memories…
When I was in the Navy, there was an annual United Way campaign drive. While it was never stated specifically by the COs or XOs, it was very well known among the junior officers that declining to contribute to United Way would result in a less than favorable ranking on your next fitness report.
Bastards…
Posted by: one hour sober at May 29, 2025 11:33 AM (Y1sOo)
119
And of course the guy who continues working because his skills are in demand or he's just plain bored is inferior to all of them.
Posted by: WitchDoktor at May 29, 2025 11:29 AM (oUlN5)
Hey! I’m right here, ya know!
Posted by: WitchDoktor at May 29, 2025 11:29 AM (oUlN5)
Hey! I’m right here, ya know!
Posted by: RI Red at May 29, 2025 11:33 AM (R6zcv)
120
117
"Fuck you"
-- Master
Posted by: Elric Blade at May 29, 2025 11:33 AM (iFTx/)
======
You smell of pig shit.
"Fuck you"
-- Master
Posted by: Elric Blade at May 29, 2025 11:33 AM (iFTx/)
======
You smell of pig shit.
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 11:33 AM (GBKbO)
121
Why should government possess so much of the country's land?
FedGov shouldn't own one acre of non national park land.
FedGov shouldn't own one acre of non national park land.
Posted by: rickb223 at May 29, 2025 11:33 AM (/cXEw)
122
Posted by: Beverly at May 29, 2025 11:32 AM (Epeb0)
It’s a never ending war between two general philosophies.
It’s a never ending war between two general philosophies.
Posted by: polynikes at May 29, 2025 11:33 AM (VofaG)
123
Ah, glad Moo Moo is here.
We're getting ready for lemonade stand season. Question for you as an expert. Should my kid expect 1099s for the money he'll be paid, or is it a self reporting thing? Also he was confused when he received a W9 from some guy. Is that OK to complete.
Because you know, we want to be absolutely fair to everyone, no exceptions, because if we aren't that means we want Soros to get a tax cut.
We're getting ready for lemonade stand season. Question for you as an expert. Should my kid expect 1099s for the money he'll be paid, or is it a self reporting thing? Also he was confused when he received a W9 from some guy. Is that OK to complete.
Because you know, we want to be absolutely fair to everyone, no exceptions, because if we aren't that means we want Soros to get a tax cut.
Posted by: WitchDoktor at May 29, 2025 11:34 AM (oUlN5)
124
110 36
‘ The answer is Yankees importing slaves’
We’re still‘benefiting’ from the slaves the Confederates imported.
---------------
Life in the Western Hemisphere is just one slave rebellion and Indian attack after another.
‘ The answer is Yankees importing slaves’
We’re still‘benefiting’ from the slaves the Confederates imported.
---------------
Life in the Western Hemisphere is just one slave rebellion and Indian attack after another.
Posted by: Pudinhead at May 29, 2025 11:34 AM (n17eQ)
125
119 And of course the guy who continues working because his skills are in demand or he's just plain bored is inferior to all of them.
Posted by: WitchDoktor at May 29, 2025 11:29 AM (oUlN5)
Hey! I’m right here, ya know!
-----------
Yeah, me too.
Posted by: WitchDoktor at May 29, 2025 11:29 AM (oUlN5)
Hey! I’m right here, ya know!
-----------
Yeah, me too.
Posted by: Pudinhead at May 29, 2025 11:35 AM (n17eQ)
126
Government doesn't fund anything.
Taxpayers do.
Taxpayers do.
Posted by: Joe and Joanna Taxpayer at May 29, 2025 11:35 AM (K0m4j)
127
In the west, the battle for the last 90+ years has been between the Democratic Socialists and the Social Democrats.
Posted by: Oglebay at May 29, 2025 11:36 AM (2ap+5)
128
All the federal government freebies and ponzi schemes only point out why the government should not be involved in freebie and ponzi schemes as they fuck them up from the get go.
Posted by: Looking For A Hand Out at May 29, 2025 11:36 AM (WeTZq)
129
63
‘ Let's avoid putting too much virtue on private charities either.’
Private charities can’t confiscate our money.
‘ Let's avoid putting too much virtue on private charities either.’
Private charities can’t confiscate our money.
Posted by: Dr. Claw at May 29, 2025 11:36 AM (jbnUc)
130
>> I’ve never trusted the government but they are a necessary evil because I trust my fellow man even less whose motto is might makes right. There will always be takers who want to screw the makers.
I’ve got some bad news: “government” is not an abstract entity. It’s made up of your fellow man. All of whom are Takers.
What’s more, government is often comprised of the worst members of society, with unchecked power, who believe that their harassment of citizens is for their own good and fully justified.
I’ve got some bad news: “government” is not an abstract entity. It’s made up of your fellow man. All of whom are Takers.
What’s more, government is often comprised of the worst members of society, with unchecked power, who believe that their harassment of citizens is for their own good and fully justified.
Posted by: Disinterested FDA Director at May 29, 2025 11:36 AM (l3YAf)
131
>>> 102
--
I'd go even further. Retirement IS EXPECTED. If you don't retire, in many circles that's a sign of failure. Moreover there is judgement on the quality of "retirement." Someone who spends time jetting around on cruises and golf courses is seen as more successful than the family staying near their grandkids. And of course the guy who continues working because his skills are in demand or he's just plain bored is inferior to all of them.
Posted by: WitchDoktor at May 29, 2025 11:29 AM (oUlN5)
107
==
That bitterness is far from accurate.
IMO
Posted by: polynikes at May 29, 2025 11:31 AM (VofaG)
I believe the *expectation* of retirement is absolutely an expectation for most Americans. Getting into a social hierarchy of 'whose-retirement-is-best' is probably far more limited, but I'd bet there's a substantial overlap with that group and our so-called 'betters'.
--
I'd go even further. Retirement IS EXPECTED. If you don't retire, in many circles that's a sign of failure. Moreover there is judgement on the quality of "retirement." Someone who spends time jetting around on cruises and golf courses is seen as more successful than the family staying near their grandkids. And of course the guy who continues working because his skills are in demand or he's just plain bored is inferior to all of them.
Posted by: WitchDoktor at May 29, 2025 11:29 AM (oUlN5)
107
==
That bitterness is far from accurate.
IMO
Posted by: polynikes at May 29, 2025 11:31 AM (VofaG)
I believe the *expectation* of retirement is absolutely an expectation for most Americans. Getting into a social hierarchy of 'whose-retirement-is-best' is probably far more limited, but I'd bet there's a substantial overlap with that group and our so-called 'betters'.
Posted by: Helena Handbasket at May 29, 2025 11:37 AM (QRFVs)
132
Single filer pays $300 (or more) per month for Medicare Part B if modified adjusted gross income is > $129,000 ($258,000 if married filing jointly) The max monthly premium is $628.90 at $500K ($750K filing jointly)
Posted by: Oglebay
I don't want medicare. I have 80/20 BCBS for life as part of my retirement package. I'm already paying for medical.
Posted by: Oglebay
I don't want medicare. I have 80/20 BCBS for life as part of my retirement package. I'm already paying for medical.
Posted by: rickb223 at May 29, 2025 11:37 AM (/cXEw)
133
How is America not socialist?
Posted by: Disinterested FDA Director at May 29, 2025 11:19 AM (l3YAf)
We're close, but I still have guns.
Posted by: Disinterested FDA Director at May 29, 2025 11:19 AM (l3YAf)
We're close, but I still have guns.
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at May 29, 2025 11:37 AM (Zz0t1)
134
It's a write off, Jerry.
They just write it off.
They just write it off.
Posted by: Kramer at May 29, 2025 11:37 AM (K0m4j)
135
Public law is a scam and a crock.
Posted by: Oglebay at May 29, 2025 11:38 AM (2ap+5)
136
Weird how no judges ever limit socialism.
---
Not since "the switch in time that saved nine" as they like to giggle and chortle over.
Suddenly, all of FDR's illegal and unconstitutional dictates were magically legal.
But the left doesn't want you to talk about the most egregious, vicious and open attack on the judiciary ever, in the entire history of the nation--far, far exceeding even the what the left accuses Trump of--was done by them.
---
Not since "the switch in time that saved nine" as they like to giggle and chortle over.
Suddenly, all of FDR's illegal and unconstitutional dictates were magically legal.
But the left doesn't want you to talk about the most egregious, vicious and open attack on the judiciary ever, in the entire history of the nation--far, far exceeding even the what the left accuses Trump of--was done by them.
Posted by: People's Hippo Voice at May 29, 2025 11:38 AM (P9rYY)
137
132 Single filer pays $300 (or more) per month for Medicare Part B if modified adjusted gross income is > $129,000 ($258,000 if married filing jointly) The max monthly premium is $628.90 at $500K ($750K filing jointly)
Posted by: Oglebay
I don't want medicare. I have 80/20 BCBS for life as part of my retirement package. I'm already paying for medical.
-----------------
Well, Fuck Me and Fuck You. We're Fucked.
Posted by: Oglebay
I don't want medicare. I have 80/20 BCBS for life as part of my retirement package. I'm already paying for medical.
-----------------
Well, Fuck Me and Fuck You. We're Fucked.
Posted by: Pudinhead at May 29, 2025 11:38 AM (n17eQ)
138
FedGov shouldn't own one acre of non national park land.
Posted by: rickb223 at May 29, 2025 11:33 AM (/cXEw)
Meh. They should own the land they actually occupy and use for some purpose. Military bases, proving grounds, the Nevada Test Site, parks. But all the unoccupied BLM land, with mineral and grazing rights, should be ceded to the States.
Posted by: rickb223 at May 29, 2025 11:33 AM (/cXEw)
Meh. They should own the land they actually occupy and use for some purpose. Military bases, proving grounds, the Nevada Test Site, parks. But all the unoccupied BLM land, with mineral and grazing rights, should be ceded to the States.
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at May 29, 2025 11:38 AM (avO2P)
139
>>> When I was in the Navy, there was an annual United Way campaign drive. While it was never stated specifically by the COs or XOs, it was very well known among the junior officers that declining to contribute to United Way would result in a less than favorable ranking on your next fitness report.
Bastards…
Posted by: one hour sober at May 29, 2025 11:33 AM (Y1sOo)
It was that way at defense contractors but for gov. bonds. Even when gov. bonds is the worst possible "investment" you can make. You would be directly asked about it at employee reviews.
Bastards…
Posted by: one hour sober at May 29, 2025 11:33 AM (Y1sOo)
It was that way at defense contractors but for gov. bonds. Even when gov. bonds is the worst possible "investment" you can make. You would be directly asked about it at employee reviews.
Posted by: banana Dream at May 29, 2025 11:39 AM (cduTK)
140
Apples and aircraft carriers. If high trust society encompassed government, even a little, you might have a point.
Posted by: Common Tater at May 29, 2025 11:32 AM (0OORa)
Then again - define it. Define "high trust society". Here's one courtesy of "The Google";
A high-trust society is characterized by a strong level of interpersonal trust among its members and shared ethical values, which facilitates cooperation and effective social and economic interactions.
So again I ask - for how long has this "high trust" been justified ? Certainly not in ANY of our lifetimes. We have three distinct geographic cultures between which no trust is deserved. We have two distinct political parties to either of which no trust is deserved. We have zero institutions - public or private - to which any trust is deserved.
We have entirely too much trust - because the proper level seems to be zero. We are here, in no small part, because people insisted on trusting this, that, or the other group when no trust was merited for decades.
We need less trust. Not more.
Posted by: Common Tater at May 29, 2025 11:32 AM (0OORa)
Then again - define it. Define "high trust society". Here's one courtesy of "The Google";
A high-trust society is characterized by a strong level of interpersonal trust among its members and shared ethical values, which facilitates cooperation and effective social and economic interactions.
So again I ask - for how long has this "high trust" been justified ? Certainly not in ANY of our lifetimes. We have three distinct geographic cultures between which no trust is deserved. We have two distinct political parties to either of which no trust is deserved. We have zero institutions - public or private - to which any trust is deserved.
We have entirely too much trust - because the proper level seems to be zero. We are here, in no small part, because people insisted on trusting this, that, or the other group when no trust was merited for decades.
We need less trust. Not more.
Posted by: Mike Armstrong at May 29, 2025 11:40 AM (ZK0nb)
141
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at May 29, 2025 11:38 AM (avO2P)
No. They should lease or rent any property they use.
No. They should lease or rent any property they use.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at May 29, 2025 11:40 AM (6FSdT)
142
Libs of TikTok
@libsoftiktok
58m
The FBI just discovered that James Comey had a whole room of secret documents!
"We found it in bags, hiding under Jim Comey's FBI, you're going to be stunned." - FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino
This is crazy
@libsoftiktok
58m
The FBI just discovered that James Comey had a whole room of secret documents!
"We found it in bags, hiding under Jim Comey's FBI, you're going to be stunned." - FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino
This is crazy
Posted by: Biden's Dog sniffs a whole lotta malarkey, at May 29, 2025 11:41 AM (/92YE)
143
>>> 121 Why should government possess so much of the country's land?
==
FedGov shouldn't own one acre of non national park land.
Posted by: rickb223 at May 29, 2025 11:33 AM (/cXEw)
Why should they own 'national park' land?
What about military bases?
{expectation is an expectation??? more coffee...)
==
FedGov shouldn't own one acre of non national park land.
Posted by: rickb223 at May 29, 2025 11:33 AM (/cXEw)
Why should they own 'national park' land?
What about military bases?
{expectation is an expectation??? more coffee...)
Posted by: Helena Handbasket at May 29, 2025 11:41 AM (QRFVs)
144
believe the *expectation* of retirement is absolutely an expectation for most Americans. Getting into a social hierarchy of 'whose-retirement-is-best' is probably far more limited, but I'd bet there's a substantial overlap with that group and our so-called 'betters'.
Posted by: Helena Handbasket at May 29, 2025 11:37 AM (QRFVs)
I live in a 55+ community and have not come across that attitude at all. Also have friends that continue to work. Some because they want to others because they need to. Anecdotal but I assume the opposite argument also anecdotal.
Posted by: Helena Handbasket at May 29, 2025 11:37 AM (QRFVs)
I live in a 55+ community and have not come across that attitude at all. Also have friends that continue to work. Some because they want to others because they need to. Anecdotal but I assume the opposite argument also anecdotal.
Posted by: polynikes at May 29, 2025 11:41 AM (VofaG)
145
"It’s a never ending war between two general philosophies."
True. And our Founders realized that. And yes, every welfare program starts small, so we have to be ready to reform at any time. There should be a TrumpDOGE every generation.
So I think we should keep the federal government as small as possible and let the states do what they choose and face their own voters. The only social action I can see the feds doing is taking care of the truly disabled--and of course make sure that doesn't metastasize either.
True. And our Founders realized that. And yes, every welfare program starts small, so we have to be ready to reform at any time. There should be a TrumpDOGE every generation.
So I think we should keep the federal government as small as possible and let the states do what they choose and face their own voters. The only social action I can see the feds doing is taking care of the truly disabled--and of course make sure that doesn't metastasize either.
Posted by: PJ at May 29, 2025 11:41 AM (RRCAT)
146
When I was in the Navy, there was an annual United Way campaign drive.
Hell, we were told to contribute to the First Sgts Fund - or else.
Hell, we were told to contribute to the First Sgts Fund - or else.
Posted by: Mike Armstrong at May 29, 2025 11:41 AM (ZK0nb)
147
Posted by: Mike Armstrong at May 29, 2025 11:40 AM (ZK0nb)
Sorry, but you don't understand the terms "high trust" and "low trust" societies.
Sorry, but you don't understand the terms "high trust" and "low trust" societies.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at May 29, 2025 11:42 AM (6FSdT)
148
I don't want medicare. I have 80/20 BCBS for life as part of my retirement package. I'm already paying for medical.
Posted by: rickb223 at May 29, 2025 11:37 AM (/cXEw)
=====
I don't think you are required to take it. Then again, this is an all-time classic:
“I resent the fact that when I am 65, I must enroll in Medicare. I deeply and profoundly resent that. It is an imposition on my life.”
-- Dick Armey
I don't want medicare. I have 80/20 BCBS for life as part of my retirement package. I'm already paying for medical.
Posted by: rickb223 at May 29, 2025 11:37 AM (/cXEw)
=====
I don't think you are required to take it. Then again, this is an all-time classic:
“I resent the fact that when I am 65, I must enroll in Medicare. I deeply and profoundly resent that. It is an imposition on my life.”
-- Dick Armey
Posted by: Oglebay at May 29, 2025 11:43 AM (2ap+5)
149
Single filer pays $300 (or more) per month for Medicare Part B if modified adjusted gross income is > $129,000 ($258,000 if married filing jointly) The max monthly premium is $628.90 at $500K ($750K filing jointly)
Posted by: Oglebay at May 29, 2025 11:32 AM (2ap+5)
So I have to pay for Medicare my whole working life and then I can retire and.. pay for Medicare.
Somebody dig up that sh*td*ck LBJ and throw his body into the Rio Grande.
Posted by: Oglebay at May 29, 2025 11:32 AM (2ap+5)
So I have to pay for Medicare my whole working life and then I can retire and.. pay for Medicare.
Somebody dig up that sh*td*ck LBJ and throw his body into the Rio Grande.
Posted by: Disinterested FDA Director at May 29, 2025 11:43 AM (l3YAf)
150
>>Note well this “high trust society” is not an abstract concept nor a luxury, or one of those “nice things to have”; its loss isn’t merely the lament of old geezers who can safely be ignored; civilization as we all have come to expect is simply not possible without it. Not a chance. It is a wonder this isn’t commonly accepted or recognized, and I include myself in this category.
This guy gets it: https://tinyurl.com/54s6zu98
This guy gets it: https://tinyurl.com/54s6zu98
Posted by: Lizzy at May 29, 2025 11:43 AM (F/B4x)
151
SS will turn into this as well. It’s kinda there already. Low income workers get a waaaaaaay better return on their contributions than middle and upper middle workers. This formula will be tweaked to where anyone with $X in assets doesn’t qualify anymore.
Posted by: Its Go Time Donald at May 29, 2025 11:31 AM (A9Vdr)
Correct. The feds have always been opposed to a Means Test for SS because then it would be a true welfare program so they will keep on pretending as long as they can but it's coming.
Posted by: Its Go Time Donald at May 29, 2025 11:31 AM (A9Vdr)
Correct. The feds have always been opposed to a Means Test for SS because then it would be a true welfare program so they will keep on pretending as long as they can but it's coming.
Posted by: Rich Old Fart at May 29, 2025 11:43 AM (WeTZq)
152
>>> 138 FedGov shouldn't own one acre of non national park land.
Posted by: rickb223 at May 29, 2025 11:33 AM (/cXEw)
Meh. They should own the land they actually occupy and use for some purpose. Military bases, proving grounds, the Nevada Test Site, parks. But all the unoccupied BLM land, with mineral and grazing rights, should be ceded to the States.
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at May 29, 2025 11:38 AM (avO2P)
I would love to see OrangeManBad suggest this about a year from now, as part of the lead up to the 250th celebration.
Posted by: rickb223 at May 29, 2025 11:33 AM (/cXEw)
Meh. They should own the land they actually occupy and use for some purpose. Military bases, proving grounds, the Nevada Test Site, parks. But all the unoccupied BLM land, with mineral and grazing rights, should be ceded to the States.
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at May 29, 2025 11:38 AM (avO2P)
I would love to see OrangeManBad suggest this about a year from now, as part of the lead up to the 250th celebration.
Posted by: Helena Handbasket at May 29, 2025 11:44 AM (QRFVs)
153
Cold fact is that private charities can be easily set up to benefit its own leadership just as much as a government program could.
Posted by: WitchDoktor at May 29, 2025 11:19 AM (oUlN5)
But I don't have to give to those
Posted by: WitchDoktor at May 29, 2025 11:19 AM (oUlN5)
But I don't have to give to those
Posted by: ... at May 29, 2025 11:44 AM (Ga7sD)
154
Back during COVID it was pointed out irrespective of the cowardice of the courts that the government had no power to do most of the things it was doing.
The answer from the left is "it has to be able to act in an emergency".
And the answer to that is, it wasn't an emergency. If you want people to take a shot...ask them. If you want people to stay at home...ask them.
If that doesn't work that's the end of story. You don't get to use the power of government just because you can't be bothered to persuade people
The answer from the left is "it has to be able to act in an emergency".
And the answer to that is, it wasn't an emergency. If you want people to take a shot...ask them. If you want people to stay at home...ask them.
If that doesn't work that's the end of story. You don't get to use the power of government just because you can't be bothered to persuade people
Posted by: 18-1 at May 29, 2025 11:44 AM (t0Rmr)
155
Why should they own 'national park' land?
What about military bases?
{expectation is an expectation??? more coffee...)
Posted by: Helena Handbasket
Because they will run the National Park in perpetuity. Just like Arlington National Cemetery.
Military bases? No. Not since they can close them when they feel like it.
That land belongs to the state it resides in.
What about military bases?
{expectation is an expectation??? more coffee...)
Posted by: Helena Handbasket
Because they will run the National Park in perpetuity. Just like Arlington National Cemetery.
Military bases? No. Not since they can close them when they feel like it.
That land belongs to the state it resides in.
Posted by: rickb223 at May 29, 2025 11:44 AM (/cXEw)
156
President Javier Milei tried to shut down Argentine state run television and was prevented from doing so, so he is putting the children's show The Tuttle Twins on instead.
Mario Nawfal
@MarioNawfal
14h
🇦🇷 MILEI PUTS LIBERTARIAN CARTOON ON STATE TV
Javier Milei is swapping Marx for Milton, rebooting Argentina’s state-run kids channel Paka Paka with a libertarian twist.
Out go the Kirchnerist cartoons.
In comes Tuttle Twins, a U.S. series where kids time-travel with their grandma to learn about capitalism, inflation, and the “evils of taxes.”
Think Friedman, Hayek, and Mises… for 10-year-olds.
Mario Nawfal
@MarioNawfal
14h
🇦🇷 MILEI PUTS LIBERTARIAN CARTOON ON STATE TV
Javier Milei is swapping Marx for Milton, rebooting Argentina’s state-run kids channel Paka Paka with a libertarian twist.
Out go the Kirchnerist cartoons.
In comes Tuttle Twins, a U.S. series where kids time-travel with their grandma to learn about capitalism, inflation, and the “evils of taxes.”
Think Friedman, Hayek, and Mises… for 10-year-olds.
Posted by: Kindltot at May 29, 2025 11:44 AM (D7oie)
157
No. They should lease or rent any property they use.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at May 29, 2025 11:40 AM (6FSdT)
Then the lease/rental payments become a political patronage football. Scum Blue State ups the rental rate on military base to some astronomical number. Compliant Dem Fedgov, says, "OK". Many Dem palms get greased.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at May 29, 2025 11:40 AM (6FSdT)
Then the lease/rental payments become a political patronage football. Scum Blue State ups the rental rate on military base to some astronomical number. Compliant Dem Fedgov, says, "OK". Many Dem palms get greased.
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at May 29, 2025 11:44 AM (avO2P)
158
I'm not a sociology expert, so correct me if I'm refining this down too much...
High trust societies don't need government.
Low trust societies can't exist without it.
Is that about it?
High trust societies don't need government.
Low trust societies can't exist without it.
Is that about it?
Posted by: WitchDoktor at May 29, 2025 11:45 AM (oUlN5)
159
>>> 141 Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at May 29, 2025 11:38 AM (avO2P)
No. They should lease or rent any property they use.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at May 29, 2025 11:40 AM (6FSdT)
Your terms are acceptable!
No. They should lease or rent any property they use.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at May 29, 2025 11:40 AM (6FSdT)
Your terms are acceptable!
Posted by: Helena Handbasket at May 29, 2025 11:45 AM (QRFVs)
160
I don't think you are required to take it. Then again, this is an all-time classic:
“I resent the fact that when I am 65, I must enroll in Medicare. I deeply and profoundly resent that. It is an imposition on my life.”
-- Dick Armey
Posted by: Oglebay at May 29, 2025 11:43 AM (2ap+5)
You have to enroll but you don’t have to take it if you have other insurance that provides the same level of coverage. That’s my understanding.
And my bad for assuming the income amount of the poster.
“I resent the fact that when I am 65, I must enroll in Medicare. I deeply and profoundly resent that. It is an imposition on my life.”
-- Dick Armey
Posted by: Oglebay at May 29, 2025 11:43 AM (2ap+5)
You have to enroll but you don’t have to take it if you have other insurance that provides the same level of coverage. That’s my understanding.
And my bad for assuming the income amount of the poster.
Posted by: polynikes at May 29, 2025 11:45 AM (VofaG)
161
Sorry, but you don't understand the terms "high trust" and "low trust" societies.
Then once more - define it. Give an example of where trust is merited.
Should I "trust" the little cherubs selling popcorn outside the Home Depot ? I don't - and so I don't give them any money. Because I have no expectation they'll do anything with it - as a group - that I'd approve of.
Trust the bank ? Nope. Hence my meticulous records. Banks have a great track record, when the chips are down, of simply making your money their money until they see fit to do otherwise.
Seriously - define this "high trust". Concretely. So many times here we go in circles, because everybody wants to hold onto their personal definitions when the truth is ... even when people seem to agree ... the personal definitions don't even match.
Then once more - define it. Give an example of where trust is merited.
Should I "trust" the little cherubs selling popcorn outside the Home Depot ? I don't - and so I don't give them any money. Because I have no expectation they'll do anything with it - as a group - that I'd approve of.
Trust the bank ? Nope. Hence my meticulous records. Banks have a great track record, when the chips are down, of simply making your money their money until they see fit to do otherwise.
Seriously - define this "high trust". Concretely. So many times here we go in circles, because everybody wants to hold onto their personal definitions when the truth is ... even when people seem to agree ... the personal definitions don't even match.
Posted by: Mike Armstrong at May 29, 2025 11:46 AM (ZK0nb)
162
At a doctors office. Post it note on the window “glass”. Really, you have to tell people this! I’m really disappointed in the current world.
Posted by: neverenoughcaffeine at May 29, 2025 11:46 AM (Sf6wX)
163
102
‘ If you don't retire, in many circles that's a sign of failure.’
I expect to fail in this regard.
‘ If you don't retire, in many circles that's a sign of failure.’
I expect to fail in this regard.
Posted by: Dr. Claw at May 29, 2025 11:46 AM (jbnUc)
164
I only trust The Human Fund with my money. They have earned my trust now for nearly 30 years. Above-board, transparent, the Fund exists only to benefit man and womankind.
Posted by: Won't You Pitch In? at May 29, 2025 11:46 AM (G5+As)
165
They seek an America that is fragmented into pressure groups and racial groups and ethnic groups and class divisions, all of which are pitted against each other in a never-ending battle for government support.
Sounds like a dystopian hell-hole...
It will be.
There will be a battle.
It will end, like all battles do.
And the survivors will start again.
Sounds like a dystopian hell-hole...
It will be.
There will be a battle.
It will end, like all battles do.
And the survivors will start again.
Posted by: Diogenes at May 29, 2025 11:46 AM (W/lyH)
166
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at May 29, 2025 11:44 AM (avO2P)
Good point. But that'd be managed by Congress
Good point. But that'd be managed by Congress
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at May 29, 2025 11:47 AM (6FSdT)
167
I don't think you are required to take it. Then again, this is an all-time classic:
“I resent the fact that when I am 65, I must enroll in Medicare. I deeply and profoundly resent that. It is an imposition on my life.”
-- Dick Armey
Posted by: Oglebay at May 29, 2025 11:43 AM (2ap+5)
Is that worse than Mike Johnson passing a big bad bullshit bill full of spending increases?
Nobody's going to talk about cutting Medicare. As soon as it was hinted they might cut Medicaid (theoretically just those benefits going to illegals and other fraudsters), they backed off.
“I resent the fact that when I am 65, I must enroll in Medicare. I deeply and profoundly resent that. It is an imposition on my life.”
-- Dick Armey
Posted by: Oglebay at May 29, 2025 11:43 AM (2ap+5)
Is that worse than Mike Johnson passing a big bad bullshit bill full of spending increases?
Nobody's going to talk about cutting Medicare. As soon as it was hinted they might cut Medicaid (theoretically just those benefits going to illegals and other fraudsters), they backed off.
Posted by: BurtTC at May 29, 2025 11:48 AM (dGCAG)
168
United Way is the nastiest of "charities."
Because being on their board is "big fish in small pond" status.
And they sell board seats.
It makes the sleaziest of multi-level-marketing scams look honest.
Because it all wink-and-nod what is required to be on the board.
Because being on their board is "big fish in small pond" status.
And they sell board seats.
It makes the sleaziest of multi-level-marketing scams look honest.
Because it all wink-and-nod what is required to be on the board.
Posted by: People's Hippo Voice at May 29, 2025 11:48 AM (P9rYY)
169
My state voted for some feel good BS law to let the state make "easier" to build low cost housing.
A town near mine that voted to support the bill at the local level.
Shortly thereafter the state took their fancy, signature hotel and is now demolishing it - they've sold the land to a developer to build tenements for newcomers.
And you know what? All those nice feel good leftists are shocked, shocked that the state government would do this in THEIR town...
A town near mine that voted to support the bill at the local level.
Shortly thereafter the state took their fancy, signature hotel and is now demolishing it - they've sold the land to a developer to build tenements for newcomers.
And you know what? All those nice feel good leftists are shocked, shocked that the state government would do this in THEIR town...
Posted by: 18-1 at May 29, 2025 11:48 AM (t0Rmr)
170
Good point. But that'd be managed by Congress
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at May 29, 2025 11:47 AM (6FSdT)
That's comforting!
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at May 29, 2025 11:47 AM (6FSdT)
That's comforting!
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at May 29, 2025 11:48 AM (avO2P)
171
My plan is retire from my full time job somewhere in my late 50s. But still do some work here and there. Figure out the threshold to be under to qualify for all the government cheese out there.
Posted by: Its Go Time Donald at May 29, 2025 11:49 AM (A9Vdr)
172
Then the lease/rental payments become a political patronage football. Scum Blue State ups the rental rate on military base to some astronomical number. Compliant Dem Fedgov, says, "OK". Many Dem palms get greased.
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon
Rent free. Fedgov uses land until they close the base. At that point, the "lease" is terminated and ownership immediately reverts to the state it sits in.
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon
Rent free. Fedgov uses land until they close the base. At that point, the "lease" is terminated and ownership immediately reverts to the state it sits in.
Posted by: rickb223 at May 29, 2025 11:49 AM (/cXEw)
173
>>> 144 believe the *expectation* of retirement is absolutely an expectation for most Americans. Getting into a social hierarchy of 'whose-retirement-is-best' is probably far more limited, but I'd bet there's a substantial overlap with that group and our so-called 'betters'.
Posted by: Helena Handbasket at May 29, 2025 11:37 AM (QRFVs)
I live in a 55+ community and have not come across that attitude at all. Also have friends that continue to work. Some because they want to others because they need to. Anecdotal but I assume the opposite argument also anecdotal.
Posted by: polynikes at May 29, 2025 11:41 AM (VofaG)
Heh. I can't recall if I've seen any polling around retirement other than whether or not people have a 401k or IRA, or are relying on social security. Almost like those are push polls too?
Posted by: Helena Handbasket at May 29, 2025 11:37 AM (QRFVs)
I live in a 55+ community and have not come across that attitude at all. Also have friends that continue to work. Some because they want to others because they need to. Anecdotal but I assume the opposite argument also anecdotal.
Posted by: polynikes at May 29, 2025 11:41 AM (VofaG)
Heh. I can't recall if I've seen any polling around retirement other than whether or not people have a 401k or IRA, or are relying on social security. Almost like those are push polls too?
Posted by: Helena Handbasket at May 29, 2025 11:49 AM (QRFVs)
174
Nobody's going to talk about cutting Medicare. As soon as it was hinted they might cut Medicaid (theoretically just those benefits going to illegals and other fraudsters), they backed off.
Pro Tip - all components of the Political Class enjoy a quality illegal alien servant subsidized by the Working Class.
Pro Tip - all components of the Political Class enjoy a quality illegal alien servant subsidized by the Working Class.
Posted by: Mike Armstrong at May 29, 2025 11:49 AM (ZK0nb)
175
What is interesting is seeing how totally the left's agenda and complaints resonate with voters. I don't mean polls, I mean just people on the street reacting, the buzz.
Harvard defunded? Meh, why were we giving them money anyway?
Deporting illegals -- look at this cute family!!? Eh, get rid of them all.
Tariffs? Doesn't seem to be hurting me any, and F the Chicoms anyway.
Cutting government spending? Everyone has been calling for cuts for half a century or more.
Harvard defunded? Meh, why were we giving them money anyway?
Deporting illegals -- look at this cute family!!? Eh, get rid of them all.
Tariffs? Doesn't seem to be hurting me any, and F the Chicoms anyway.
Cutting government spending? Everyone has been calling for cuts for half a century or more.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at May 29, 2025 11:49 AM (2VST1)
Posted by: WitchDoktor at May 29, 2025 11:49 AM (oUlN5)
177
"They seek an America that is fragmented into pressure groups and racial groups and ethnic groups and class divisions, all of which are pitted against each other in a never-ending battle for government support. Sounds like a dystopian hell-hole."
True Thunderdome has never been tried, yo!
Posted by: Elric Blade at May 29, 2025 11:27 AM (iFTx/)
Dr Robert Malone argues that there is an active attempt to splinter and subvert social media. One of the ways is inserting AI bots to stir shlt up, and keep churning it up by manipulation.
This both starts a reinforcement cascade by "continual affirmation" and ties everyone else into knots chasing the logical flaws that they feel but not maybe identify.
Personally I think we have them here, the way that a thread will suddenly tie itself into knots and everyone gets pissed.
True Thunderdome has never been tried, yo!
Posted by: Elric Blade at May 29, 2025 11:27 AM (iFTx/)
Dr Robert Malone argues that there is an active attempt to splinter and subvert social media. One of the ways is inserting AI bots to stir shlt up, and keep churning it up by manipulation.
This both starts a reinforcement cascade by "continual affirmation" and ties everyone else into knots chasing the logical flaws that they feel but not maybe identify.
Personally I think we have them here, the way that a thread will suddenly tie itself into knots and everyone gets pissed.
Posted by: Kindltot at May 29, 2025 11:50 AM (D7oie)
178
You have to enroll but you don’t have to take it if you have other insurance that provides the same level of coverage. That’s my understanding.
And my bad for assuming the income amount of the poster.
Posted by: polynikes at May 29, 2025 11:45 AM (VofaG)
It used to be you got Part A automatically, and didn't have to pay a premium for it. I don't know if that's still the case, but Part B you opt in or out, and only if you opt in do you pay a premium. Which used to be less than $200 a month, but is probably more than that now.
And my bad for assuming the income amount of the poster.
Posted by: polynikes at May 29, 2025 11:45 AM (VofaG)
It used to be you got Part A automatically, and didn't have to pay a premium for it. I don't know if that's still the case, but Part B you opt in or out, and only if you opt in do you pay a premium. Which used to be less than $200 a month, but is probably more than that now.
Posted by: BurtTC at May 29, 2025 11:50 AM (dGCAG)
179
Nobody's going to talk about cutting Medicare. As soon as it was hinted they might cut Medicaid (theoretically just those benefits going to illegals and other fraudsters), they backed off.
From what I understand the "big beautiful bill" has just that in it.
From what I understand the "big beautiful bill" has just that in it.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at May 29, 2025 11:50 AM (2VST1)
Posted by: Jasmine Crocketts' Eye Lashes at May 29, 2025 11:51 AM (EFZgU)
181
169 My state voted for some feel good BS law to let the state make "easier" to build low cost housing.
A town near mine that voted to support the bill at the local level.
Shortly thereafter the state took their fancy, signature hotel and is now demolishing it - they've sold the land to a developer to build tenements for newcomers.
And you know what? All those nice feel good leftists are shocked, shocked that the state government would do this in THEIR town...
Posted by: 18-1 at May 29, 2025 11:48 AM (t0Rmr)
My local government is all in on “affordable housing”. They’re doing stealthily though since they know a 300 apartment complex plopped in a neighborhood will get a lot of opposition. So they’re doing it a duplex here, a triplex here. I’m constantly on the lookout to see if any of this shit is approved near me. So far so good. But the second it is? House is going up for sale.
A town near mine that voted to support the bill at the local level.
Shortly thereafter the state took their fancy, signature hotel and is now demolishing it - they've sold the land to a developer to build tenements for newcomers.
And you know what? All those nice feel good leftists are shocked, shocked that the state government would do this in THEIR town...
Posted by: 18-1 at May 29, 2025 11:48 AM (t0Rmr)
My local government is all in on “affordable housing”. They’re doing stealthily though since they know a 300 apartment complex plopped in a neighborhood will get a lot of opposition. So they’re doing it a duplex here, a triplex here. I’m constantly on the lookout to see if any of this shit is approved near me. So far so good. But the second it is? House is going up for sale.
Posted by: Its Go Time Donald at May 29, 2025 11:51 AM (A9Vdr)
182
Good point. But that'd be managed by Congress
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at May 29, 2025 11:47 AM (6FSdT)
That's comforting!
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at May 29, 2025 11:48 AM (avO2P)
About as comforting as being "welcomed to prison" by your 300 lbs. cellmate.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at May 29, 2025 11:47 AM (6FSdT)
That's comforting!
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at May 29, 2025 11:48 AM (avO2P)
About as comforting as being "welcomed to prison" by your 300 lbs. cellmate.
Posted by: BurtTC at May 29, 2025 11:52 AM (dGCAG)
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at May 29, 2025 11:52 AM (2VST1)
184
>> Above-board, transparent, the Fund exists only to benefit man and womankind.
What about transkind? Neko girl-kind? Dragonkinkind?
You hateful bigot.
What about transkind? Neko girl-kind? Dragonkinkind?
You hateful bigot.
Posted by: Disinterested FDA Director at May 29, 2025 11:52 AM (l3YAf)
185
From what I understand the "big beautiful bill" has just that in it.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at May 29, 2025 11:50 AM (2VST1)
Sure it does.
I'll sit here and wait for it to take effect.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at May 29, 2025 11:50 AM (2VST1)
Sure it does.
I'll sit here and wait for it to take effect.
Posted by: BurtTC at May 29, 2025 11:53 AM (dGCAG)
186
What is interesting is seeing how totally the left's agenda and complaints resonate with voters. I don't mean polls, I mean just people on the street reacting, the buzz.
My theory, based on nothing more than anecdata ? Of course, all any of us have is anecdata.
In the last five to ten years or so, the notion that prosperity is just going to keep on increasing as an American birthright has vaporized around me. Of course, this notion is held much more by the young than the old. Also, the idea that America must be a global force has faded as well. Again, much more among the young than the old.
That changes perspectives and priorities.
My theory, based on nothing more than anecdata ? Of course, all any of us have is anecdata.
In the last five to ten years or so, the notion that prosperity is just going to keep on increasing as an American birthright has vaporized around me. Of course, this notion is held much more by the young than the old. Also, the idea that America must be a global force has faded as well. Again, much more among the young than the old.
That changes perspectives and priorities.
Posted by: Mike Armstrong at May 29, 2025 11:53 AM (ZK0nb)
187
Is this about me?
Posted by: The Human Fund at May 29, 2025 11:53 AM (K0m4j)
188
The base Medicare Part B premium is $185 per month for 2025. Part A is free (haha).
Posted by: Oglebay at May 29, 2025 11:53 AM (2ap+5)
189
I'd go even further. Retirement IS EXPECTED. If you don't retire, in many circles that's a sign of failure.
Yup...it's drummed into you from all angles that "when you retire, when you retire, you need this or that when you retire". The most successful and happiest people I know or knew never retired, worked their whole live and are either dead or still working. Some of the most miserable people I know or knew are retired and wait for the mail man or garbage man while peeking thru their blinds they are so bored out of their minds it is the only excitement for their day.
Retirement was another result of the post WW2 lifestyle fantasy land.
Yup...it's drummed into you from all angles that "when you retire, when you retire, you need this or that when you retire". The most successful and happiest people I know or knew never retired, worked their whole live and are either dead or still working. Some of the most miserable people I know or knew are retired and wait for the mail man or garbage man while peeking thru their blinds they are so bored out of their minds it is the only excitement for their day.
Retirement was another result of the post WW2 lifestyle fantasy land.
Posted by: Be Happy, Keep Working at May 29, 2025 11:53 AM (WeTZq)
190
Sure it does.
I'll sit here and wait for it to take effect.
Posted by: BurtTC at May 29, 2025 11:53 AM (dGCAG)
Are you telling me you’re skeptical of cuts that start in 2029? 🤣
Sure it does.
I'll sit here and wait for it to take effect.
Posted by: BurtTC at May 29, 2025 11:53 AM (dGCAG)
Are you telling me you’re skeptical of cuts that start in 2029? 🤣
Posted by: Its Go Time Donald at May 29, 2025 11:53 AM (A9Vdr)
191
I use charity navigator . I assume at some point it will become corrupted also.
Posted by: polynikes at May 29, 2025 11:54 AM (VofaG)
192
~bat-bat,, bat-bat-bat~
Posted by: Jasmine Crocketts' Eye Lashes
There they go! Flying off on their own, to find a cave to roost in!
Posted by: Jasmine Crocketts' Eye Lashes
There they go! Flying off on their own, to find a cave to roost in!
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at May 29, 2025 11:54 AM (2VST1)
193
Government is simply the name we give to the things we choose to do together.
Posted by: Barney Frank at May 29, 2025 11:54 AM (Aqu9a)
194
180
~bat-bat,, bat-bat-bat~
Posted by: Jasmine Crocketts' Eye Lashes at May 29, 2025 11:51 AM (EFZgU)
Just built a pair of bat houses (not bathouses, Barry) at the wife's request.
Amazing to think that I'm at a point in my life where I'm worried that bats may reject my handmade dwelling.
~bat-bat,, bat-bat-bat~
Posted by: Jasmine Crocketts' Eye Lashes at May 29, 2025 11:51 AM (EFZgU)
Just built a pair of bat houses (not bathouses, Barry) at the wife's request.
Amazing to think that I'm at a point in my life where I'm worried that bats may reject my handmade dwelling.
Posted by: The Central Scrutinizer at May 29, 2025 11:54 AM (KbCG3)
195
They seek an America that is fragmented into pressure groups and racial groups and ethnic groups and class divisions, all of which are pitted against each other in a never-ending battle for government support. Sounds like a dystopian hell-hole."
Forget the promise of progress and understanding, for in the grim darkness of the woke future there is only ethnic division and butt sex. There is no peace amongst the people, only an eternity of hate and fury, and the laughter of spent twinks.
Forget the promise of progress and understanding, for in the grim darkness of the woke future there is only ethnic division and butt sex. There is no peace amongst the people, only an eternity of hate and fury, and the laughter of spent twinks.
Posted by: 18-1 at May 29, 2025 11:54 AM (t0Rmr)
196
Teachers are the true heroes.
Posted by: toby928 at May 29, 2025 11:54 AM (jc0TO)
197
193 Government is simply the name we give to the things we choose to do together.
Posted by: Barney Frank at May 29, 2025 11:54 AM (Aqu9a)
=====
I thought that was called a key party
Posted by: Barney Frank at May 29, 2025 11:54 AM (Aqu9a)
=====
I thought that was called a key party
Posted by: Oglebay at May 29, 2025 11:55 AM (2ap+5)
198
If men were angels there would be no need for government.
/The OTHER James Madison
And as he went on to point out, governments are run by men, not angels.
/The OTHER James Madison
And as he went on to point out, governments are run by men, not angels.
Posted by: muldoon at May 29, 2025 11:55 AM (/iMjX)
199
From what I understand the "big beautiful bill" has just that in it.
This was ellecordova's take. Of course she saw that as a bad thing
From what I understand the "big beautiful bill" has just that in it.
This was ellecordova's take. Of course she saw that as a bad thing
Posted by: 18-1 at May 29, 2025 11:55 AM (t0Rmr)
200
I'll sit here and wait for it to take effect.
I'll be right next to you, but that's what the left is screaming about how millions of people are going to lose coverage etc. Its not being ignored, yet. We'll see if the Senate remotely goes along or comes up with something completely different.
I'll be right next to you, but that's what the left is screaming about how millions of people are going to lose coverage etc. Its not being ignored, yet. We'll see if the Senate remotely goes along or comes up with something completely different.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at May 29, 2025 11:55 AM (2VST1)
201
Forget the promise of progress and understanding, for in the grim darkness of the woke future there is only ethnic division and butt sex. There is no peace amongst the people, only an eternity of hate and fury, and the laughter of spent twinks.
Posted by: 18-1 at May 29, 2025 11:54 AM (t0Rmr)
Nice
Posted by: 18-1 at May 29, 2025 11:54 AM (t0Rmr)
Nice
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, buy ammo at May 29, 2025 11:56 AM (xcxpd)
202
The base Medicare Part B premium is $185 per month for 2025. Part A is free (haha).
Posted by: Oglebay at May 29, 2025 11:53 AM (2ap+5)
That all? I was sure it would be way over $200 by now.
Good to know. I thought I saw somewhere, new enrollees would have to pay a Part A premium as well, but those who have been on it for a while are grandfathered (sorry) in.
Posted by: Oglebay at May 29, 2025 11:53 AM (2ap+5)
That all? I was sure it would be way over $200 by now.
Good to know. I thought I saw somewhere, new enrollees would have to pay a Part A premium as well, but those who have been on it for a while are grandfathered (sorry) in.
Posted by: BurtTC at May 29, 2025 11:56 AM (dGCAG)
203
>>> 157 No. They should lease or rent any property they use.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at May 29, 2025 11:40 AM (6FSdT)
Then the lease/rental payments become a political patronage football. Scum Blue State ups the rental rate on military base to some astronomical number. Compliant Dem Fedgov, says, "OK". Many Dem palms get greased.
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at May 29, 2025 11:44 AM (avO2P)
Current status is, military bases are expected to be beneficial to the local economy by bringing thousands of people with disposable income to their neighbors. Uniparty trying to skim off the top isn't a new problem, and *maybe* a rent would make this more obvious?
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at May 29, 2025 11:40 AM (6FSdT)
Then the lease/rental payments become a political patronage football. Scum Blue State ups the rental rate on military base to some astronomical number. Compliant Dem Fedgov, says, "OK". Many Dem palms get greased.
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at May 29, 2025 11:44 AM (avO2P)
Current status is, military bases are expected to be beneficial to the local economy by bringing thousands of people with disposable income to their neighbors. Uniparty trying to skim off the top isn't a new problem, and *maybe* a rent would make this more obvious?
Posted by: Helena Handbasket at May 29, 2025 11:56 AM (QRFVs)
204
198 If men were angels there would be no need for government.
/The OTHER James Madison
And as he went on to point out, governments are run by men, not angels.
Posted by: muldoon at May 29, 2025 11:55 AM (/iMjX)
=======
Short dude. Funny. Liked piggy-backs.
He probably would have fit in around here.
/The OTHER James Madison
And as he went on to point out, governments are run by men, not angels.
Posted by: muldoon at May 29, 2025 11:55 AM (/iMjX)
=======
Short dude. Funny. Liked piggy-backs.
He probably would have fit in around here.
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 11:56 AM (GBKbO)
205
When the government closed Naval Air Station Glenview just north of Chicago, it sold it to the city of Glenview for one dollar.
Now, the city had to clean up the toxic waste on the site, so there was some cost involved there, but one dollar?
Now, the city had to clean up the toxic waste on the site, so there was some cost involved there, but one dollar?
Posted by: one hour sober at May 29, 2025 11:56 AM (Y1sOo)
206
199
From what I understand the "big beautiful bill" has just that in it.
This was ellecordova's take. Of course she saw that as a bad thing
Posted by: 18-1 at May 29, 2025 11:55 AM (t0Rmr)
=======
The House starts voting on rescission bills on Monday, too.
From what I understand the "big beautiful bill" has just that in it.
This was ellecordova's take. Of course she saw that as a bad thing
Posted by: 18-1 at May 29, 2025 11:55 AM (t0Rmr)
=======
The House starts voting on rescission bills on Monday, too.
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 11:57 AM (GBKbO)
207
Posted by: Be Happy, Keep Working at May 29, 2025 11:53 AM (WeTZq)
Bitter people should keep working so they can continue to trash people who choose to retire.
You guys don’t see the irony in your posts?
Bitter people should keep working so they can continue to trash people who choose to retire.
You guys don’t see the irony in your posts?
Posted by: polynikes at May 29, 2025 11:57 AM (VofaG)
208
183
‘ They promote abortion and tranny stuff worldwide.’
Any more I just assume Charity______ will be for someone or something that I’d never give money to.
‘ They promote abortion and tranny stuff worldwide.’
Any more I just assume Charity______ will be for someone or something that I’d never give money to.
Posted by: Dr. Claw at May 29, 2025 11:57 AM (jbnUc)
209
I'm not a sociology expert, so correct me if I'm refining this down too much...
High trust societies don't need government.
Low trust societies can't exist without it.
Is that about it?
Posted by: WitchDoktor at May 29, 2025 11:45 AM (oUlN5)
A constitution for a virtuous society.......or a republic, if we can keep it.
High trust societies don't need government.
Low trust societies can't exist without it.
Is that about it?
Posted by: WitchDoktor at May 29, 2025 11:45 AM (oUlN5)
A constitution for a virtuous society.......or a republic, if we can keep it.
Posted by: Dr. Pork Chops & Bacons at May 29, 2025 11:57 AM (g8Ew8)
210
Here’s the problem. More than 50% of people collect some kind of check from the government. Be it welfare, be it a paycheck, be it SS. When a majority of people rely on govt to live, you’ll never get the political will to cut the flow of money.
That’s just reality. And I don’t know how this will ever be overcome.
That’s just reality. And I don’t know how this will ever be overcome.
Posted by: Its Go Time Donald at May 29, 2025 11:57 AM (A9Vdr)
211
Sure it does.
I'll sit here and wait for it to take effect.
Posted by: BurtTC at May 29, 2025 11:53 AM (dGCAG)
Are you telling me you’re skeptical of cuts that start in 2029? 🤣
Posted by: Its Go Time Donald at May 29, 2025 11:53 AM (A9Vdr)
We can take turns holding our breath. If we live that long.
I'll sit here and wait for it to take effect.
Posted by: BurtTC at May 29, 2025 11:53 AM (dGCAG)
Are you telling me you’re skeptical of cuts that start in 2029? 🤣
Posted by: Its Go Time Donald at May 29, 2025 11:53 AM (A9Vdr)
We can take turns holding our breath. If we live that long.
Posted by: BurtTC at May 29, 2025 11:57 AM (dGCAG)
212
If men were angels there would be no need for government.
This is the fundamental flaw with libertarianism. They get half of it right: government is made up of flawed sinful men. But they miss the second part: so is the voting populace.
This is the fundamental flaw with libertarianism. They get half of it right: government is made up of flawed sinful men. But they miss the second part: so is the voting populace.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at May 29, 2025 11:57 AM (2VST1)
213
171 My plan is retire from my full time job somewhere in my late 50s.
my plan is, and always has been, to keel over at my desk and get wheeled away.
my plan is, and always has been, to keel over at my desk and get wheeled away.
Posted by: anachronda at May 29, 2025 11:57 AM (sGtp+)
214
Amazing to think that I'm at a point in my life where I'm worried that bats may reject my handmade dwelling.
Posted by: The Central Scrutinizer at May 29, 2025 11:54 AM (KbCG3)
I hear all kinds of things about how picky bats are moving in when you build a bat house for them. They say the same about bluebirds. Gotta have exactly the right house, exactly the right location, this that and the other thing.
And then the dumb bastards build a bunch of nests up in the soffit of my shed.
I wouldn't stress about it. They'll move in if they feel like it.
Posted by: The Central Scrutinizer at May 29, 2025 11:54 AM (KbCG3)
I hear all kinds of things about how picky bats are moving in when you build a bat house for them. They say the same about bluebirds. Gotta have exactly the right house, exactly the right location, this that and the other thing.
And then the dumb bastards build a bunch of nests up in the soffit of my shed.
I wouldn't stress about it. They'll move in if they feel like it.
Posted by: Warai-otoko at May 29, 2025 11:58 AM (yvnLa)
215
212 If men were angels there would be no need for government.
This is the fundamental flaw with libertarianism. They get half of it right: government is made up of flawed sinful men. But they miss the second part: so is the voting populace.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at May 29, 2025 11:57 AM (2VST1)
=====
I think this is a conflation of libertarianism, which isn't that unified of a theory and has many offshoots, and anarcho-capitalism, which could be considered a form of libertarianism.
This is the fundamental flaw with libertarianism. They get half of it right: government is made up of flawed sinful men. But they miss the second part: so is the voting populace.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at May 29, 2025 11:57 AM (2VST1)
=====
I think this is a conflation of libertarianism, which isn't that unified of a theory and has many offshoots, and anarcho-capitalism, which could be considered a form of libertarianism.
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 11:58 AM (GBKbO)
216
Amazing to think that I'm at a point in my life where I'm worried that bats may reject my handmade dwelling.
Posted by: The Central Scrutinizer at May 29, 2025 11:54 AM (KbCG3)
Bat (looking around): what a fucking dump.
Bat wife: I don't think he even sanded this bit over here!
J/K. Sorry. this is how my mind works.
Posted by: The Central Scrutinizer at May 29, 2025 11:54 AM (KbCG3)
Bat (looking around): what a fucking dump.
Bat wife: I don't think he even sanded this bit over here!
J/K. Sorry. this is how my mind works.
Posted by: Aetius451AD at May 29, 2025 11:58 AM (bss/y)
217
212 If men were angels there would be no need for government.
This is the fundamental flaw with libertarianism. They get half of it right: government is made up of flawed sinful men. But they miss the second part: so is the voting populace.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at May 29, 2025 11:57 AM (2VST1)
=====
Man needs the state like a fish needs a bicycle.
This is the fundamental flaw with libertarianism. They get half of it right: government is made up of flawed sinful men. But they miss the second part: so is the voting populace.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at May 29, 2025 11:57 AM (2VST1)
=====
Man needs the state like a fish needs a bicycle.
Posted by: Oglebay at May 29, 2025 11:58 AM (2ap+5)
218
My plan is retire from my full time job somewhere in my late 50s. But still do some work here and there. Figure out the threshold to be under to qualify for all the government cheese out there.
Posted by: Its Go Time Donald at May 29, 2025 11:49 AM (A9Vdr)
I’m not close to retirement age yet, but my plan for the bear future is to get onto Medicaid and food stamps.
Unfortunately, I’m too much of a productive citizen to qualify for any kind of benefit from my government, but my illegal alien alter ego Roberto Rodriguez is just in the right income bracket to get a full ride.
Posted by: Its Go Time Donald at May 29, 2025 11:49 AM (A9Vdr)
I’m not close to retirement age yet, but my plan for the bear future is to get onto Medicaid and food stamps.
Unfortunately, I’m too much of a productive citizen to qualify for any kind of benefit from my government, but my illegal alien alter ego Roberto Rodriguez is just in the right income bracket to get a full ride.
Posted by: Disinterested FDA Director at May 29, 2025 11:59 AM (l3YAf)
219
What about transkind? Neko girl-kind? Dragonkinkind?
You hateful bigot.
Posted by: Disinterested FDA Director
You were on the short list to be named to The Human Fund Board. That's out the window now, buddy.
You hateful bigot.
Posted by: Disinterested FDA Director
You were on the short list to be named to The Human Fund Board. That's out the window now, buddy.
Posted by: Short List To Shit List In One Comment at May 29, 2025 11:59 AM (G5+As)
220
my plan is, and always has been, to keel over at my desk and get wheeled away.
Posted by: anachronda at May 29, 2025 11:57 AM (sGtp+)
That was my maternal grandfather's plan. Successfully executed, btw. I have to say it has considerable merit.
Posted by: anachronda at May 29, 2025 11:57 AM (sGtp+)
That was my maternal grandfather's plan. Successfully executed, btw. I have to say it has considerable merit.
Posted by: Count de Monet at May 29, 2025 12:00 PM (Aqu9a)
221
189 I'd go even further. Retirement IS EXPECTED. If you don't retire, in many circles that's a sign of failure.
Yup...it's drummed into you from all angles that "when you retire, when you retire, you need this or that when you retire". The most successful and happiest people I know or knew never retired, worked their whole live and are either dead or still working. Some of the most miserable people I know or knew are retired and wait for the mail man or garbage man while peeking thru their blinds they are so bored out of their minds it is the only excitement for their day.
Retirement was another result of the post WW2 lifestyle fantasy land.
Posted by: Be Happy, Keep Working at May 29, 2025 11:53 AM (WeTZq)
Speaking with my Polish guest, Polish old people don't retire...ever. They also don't save for retirement...at all. I asked what happens when they get sick or old and it's a combo of family, just house living, and letting yourself go. It does help that they don't really pay for chronic care, nor emphasize it at all, so folks do die off quicker and cheaper than they would if cared for...
Yup...it's drummed into you from all angles that "when you retire, when you retire, you need this or that when you retire". The most successful and happiest people I know or knew never retired, worked their whole live and are either dead or still working. Some of the most miserable people I know or knew are retired and wait for the mail man or garbage man while peeking thru their blinds they are so bored out of their minds it is the only excitement for their day.
Retirement was another result of the post WW2 lifestyle fantasy land.
Posted by: Be Happy, Keep Working at May 29, 2025 11:53 AM (WeTZq)
Speaking with my Polish guest, Polish old people don't retire...ever. They also don't save for retirement...at all. I asked what happens when they get sick or old and it's a combo of family, just house living, and letting yourself go. It does help that they don't really pay for chronic care, nor emphasize it at all, so folks do die off quicker and cheaper than they would if cared for...
Posted by: Nova Local at May 29, 2025 12:00 PM (tOcjL)
222
216 Amazing to think that I'm at a point in my life where I'm worried that bats may reject my handmade dwelling.
Posted by: The Central Scrutinizer at May 29, 2025 11:54 AM (KbCG3)
Bat (looking around): what a fucking dump.
Bat wife: I don't think he even sanded this bit over here!
J/K. Sorry. this is how my mind works.
Posted by: Aetius451AD at May 29, 2025 11:58 AM (bss/y)
I sanded nothing!
Posted by: The Central Scrutinizer at May 29, 2025 11:54 AM (KbCG3)
Bat (looking around): what a fucking dump.
Bat wife: I don't think he even sanded this bit over here!
J/K. Sorry. this is how my mind works.
Posted by: Aetius451AD at May 29, 2025 11:58 AM (bss/y)
I sanded nothing!
Posted by: The Central Scrutinizer at May 29, 2025 12:00 PM (KbCG3)
223
>>> When the government closed Naval Air Station Glenview just north of Chicago, it sold it to the city of Glenview for one dollar.
Now, the city had to clean up the toxic waste on the site, so there was some cost involved there, but one dollar?
Posted by: one hour sober at May 29, 2025 11:56 AM (Y1sOo)
Dumb to not ask for beads too.
Now, the city had to clean up the toxic waste on the site, so there was some cost involved there, but one dollar?
Posted by: one hour sober at May 29, 2025 11:56 AM (Y1sOo)
Dumb to not ask for beads too.
Posted by: Lenape tribe at May 29, 2025 12:00 PM (cduTK)
224
I think this is a conflation of libertarianism, which isn't that unified of a theory and has many offshoots
well trying to pin down libertarianism is like trying to pick up jello with a fork. But there are some underlying agreed-upon concepts such as "taxation is theft" and "we are better ruled by ourselves" both of which ignore that basic flaw.
well trying to pin down libertarianism is like trying to pick up jello with a fork. But there are some underlying agreed-upon concepts such as "taxation is theft" and "we are better ruled by ourselves" both of which ignore that basic flaw.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at May 29, 2025 12:00 PM (2VST1)
225
I think this is a conflation of libertarianism, which isn't that unified of a theory and has many offshoots, and anarcho-capitalism, which could be considered a form of libertarianism.
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 11:58 AM (GBKbO)
Yeah, I’m mostly a libertarian, but I still think we need a government. Just a vastly smaller one.
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 11:58 AM (GBKbO)
Yeah, I’m mostly a libertarian, but I still think we need a government. Just a vastly smaller one.
Posted by: Disinterested FDA Director at May 29, 2025 12:01 PM (l3YAf)
226
my plan is, and always has been, to keel over at my desk and get wheeled away.
Posted by: anachronda at May 29, 2025 11:57 AM (sGtp+)
Looxury!
I expect the rats will find me, slumped over my desk and will eat the carcass before anyone thinks to wash away the vile smelly slime left behind.
Posted by: anachronda at May 29, 2025 11:57 AM (sGtp+)
Looxury!
I expect the rats will find me, slumped over my desk and will eat the carcass before anyone thinks to wash away the vile smelly slime left behind.
Posted by: BurtTC at May 29, 2025 12:01 PM (dGCAG)
227
Due to an unforeseen development in my retirement income ( FU Walgreens), I may need to join the work force again.
Posted by: polynikes at May 29, 2025 12:01 PM (VofaG)
228
Don’t play into the left’s game. Their game is binary, either you want socialism or you want no government. How many times have you seen people say shit like “move to Somalia they have no government it’s a conservative’s paradise”.
I want government. I want a military, and border patrol and interstate highways and airports and shit. That’s what government is for. It’s not for Medicaid and section 8 housing or grants to study lesbian poets.
Lots of gray in between the black and white extremes.
I want government. I want a military, and border patrol and interstate highways and airports and shit. That’s what government is for. It’s not for Medicaid and section 8 housing or grants to study lesbian poets.
Lots of gray in between the black and white extremes.
Posted by: Its Go Time Donald at May 29, 2025 12:01 PM (A9Vdr)
229
224 I think this is a conflation of libertarianism, which isn't that unified of a theory and has many offshoots
well trying to pin down libertarianism is like trying to pick up jello with a fork. But there are some underlying agreed-upon concepts such as "taxation is theft" and "we are better ruled by ourselves" both of which ignore that basic flaw.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at May 29, 2025 12:00 PM (2VST1)
======
When I think of libertarianism, I think of Milton Freidman who was no anarchist.
When others think of libertarianism, they seem to think of Ayn Rand who essentially was an anarchist.
well trying to pin down libertarianism is like trying to pick up jello with a fork. But there are some underlying agreed-upon concepts such as "taxation is theft" and "we are better ruled by ourselves" both of which ignore that basic flaw.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at May 29, 2025 12:00 PM (2VST1)
======
When I think of libertarianism, I think of Milton Freidman who was no anarchist.
When others think of libertarianism, they seem to think of Ayn Rand who essentially was an anarchist.
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 12:01 PM (GBKbO)
230
well trying to pin down libertarianism is like trying to pick up jello with a fork. But there are some underlying agreed-upon concepts such as "taxation is theft" and "we are better ruled by ourselves" both of which ignore that basic flaw.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at May 29, 2025 12:00 PM (2VST1)
Now do "conservatism."
And try to reconcile perpetual war with "America First."
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at May 29, 2025 12:00 PM (2VST1)
Now do "conservatism."
And try to reconcile perpetual war with "America First."
Posted by: BurtTC at May 29, 2025 12:02 PM (dGCAG)
231
My plan is retire from my full time job somewhere in my late 50s.
my plan is, and always has been, to keel over at my desk and get wheeled away.
Posted by: anachronda
Fucking A! Then it's workplace related and insurance pays 10x.
my plan is, and always has been, to keel over at my desk and get wheeled away.
Posted by: anachronda
Fucking A! Then it's workplace related and insurance pays 10x.
Posted by: rickb223 at May 29, 2025 12:02 PM (/cXEw)
232
>>When the government closed Naval Air Station Glenview just north of Chicago, it sold it to the city of Glenview for one dollar.
>>Now, the city had to clean up the toxic waste on the site, so there was some cost involved there, but one dollar?
When the Navy took much of my town for multiple Navy bases they had a similar arrangement. And similar toxic waste to be cleaned up.
Hell, they are still doing recoveries of test torpedoes in Narragansett Bay from WWII.
>>Now, the city had to clean up the toxic waste on the site, so there was some cost involved there, but one dollar?
When the Navy took much of my town for multiple Navy bases they had a similar arrangement. And similar toxic waste to be cleaned up.
Hell, they are still doing recoveries of test torpedoes in Narragansett Bay from WWII.
Posted by: JackStraw at May 29, 2025 12:02 PM (viF8m)
233
I'd go even further. Retirement IS EXPECTED. If you don't retire, in many circles that's a sign of failure.
---
Retirement was another result of the post WW2 lifestyle fantasy land.
Yeah, exactly. You'll notice that people who work at what they love never retire from their job. The idea that you get to a certain place where you no longer need to or should work to eat is fairly recent. I mean, great if you can, but life has rarely been that way, and it was vanishingly rare in the past.
---
Retirement was another result of the post WW2 lifestyle fantasy land.
Yeah, exactly. You'll notice that people who work at what they love never retire from their job. The idea that you get to a certain place where you no longer need to or should work to eat is fairly recent. I mean, great if you can, but life has rarely been that way, and it was vanishingly rare in the past.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at May 29, 2025 12:02 PM (2VST1)
234
I sanded nothing!
Posted by: The Central Scrutinizer at May 29, 2025 12:00 PM (KbCG3)
Bat wife: I should have married Harvey! Oh, he'd take me to the most beautiful places- like that Mercedes dealership. Moths as big as your fist!
Bat: Yeah, you used to love the banana I stole for you from the smoothie shop. You fat cow.
Posted by: The Central Scrutinizer at May 29, 2025 12:00 PM (KbCG3)
Bat wife: I should have married Harvey! Oh, he'd take me to the most beautiful places- like that Mercedes dealership. Moths as big as your fist!
Bat: Yeah, you used to love the banana I stole for you from the smoothie shop. You fat cow.
Posted by: Aetius451AD at May 29, 2025 12:03 PM (bss/y)
235
Amazing to think that I'm at a point in my life where I'm worried that bats may reject my handmade dwelling.
Posted by: The Central Scrutinizer at May 29, 2025 11:54 AM (KbCG3)
Bat (looking around): what a fucking dump.
Bat wife: I don't think he even sanded this bit over here!
J/K. Sorry'. this is how my mind works.
Posted by: Aetius451AD at May 29, 2025 11:58 AM (bss/y)
This builder never met a level or a square. I won't even go into the sloppy joinery, daylight streaming thru the gaps. It's not up to code.
Posted by: The Central Scrutinizer at May 29, 2025 11:54 AM (KbCG3)
Bat (looking around): what a fucking dump.
Bat wife: I don't think he even sanded this bit over here!
J/K. Sorry'. this is how my mind works.
Posted by: Aetius451AD at May 29, 2025 11:58 AM (bss/y)
This builder never met a level or a square. I won't even go into the sloppy joinery, daylight streaming thru the gaps. It's not up to code.
Posted by: Bat House Inspector at May 29, 2025 12:04 PM (Aqu9a)
236
That was my maternal grandfather's plan. Successfully executed, btw. I have to say it has considerable merit.
Posted by: Count de Monet at May 29, 2025 12:00 PM (Aqu9a)
Obligatory:
When I die I want to go peacefully in my sleep, like my grandpappy.
Not screaming in bloody terror, like the passengers in his car.
Posted by: Count de Monet at May 29, 2025 12:00 PM (Aqu9a)
Obligatory:
When I die I want to go peacefully in my sleep, like my grandpappy.
Not screaming in bloody terror, like the passengers in his car.
Posted by: BurtTC at May 29, 2025 12:04 PM (dGCAG)
237
>>> 230 well trying to pin down libertarianism is like trying to pick up jello with a fork. But there are some underlying agreed-upon concepts such as "taxation is theft" and "we are better ruled by ourselves" both of which ignore that basic flaw.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at May 29, 2025 12:00 PM (2VST1)
Now do "conservatism."
And try to reconcile perpetual war with "America First."
Posted by: BurtTC at May 29, 2025 12:02 PM (dGCAG)
Who came up with the labels 'conservative' and 'liberal'? There's more than one reason I started thinking 'Constitutionalist' well before I was 29, even if it does have More Syllables.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at May 29, 2025 12:00 PM (2VST1)
Now do "conservatism."
And try to reconcile perpetual war with "America First."
Posted by: BurtTC at May 29, 2025 12:02 PM (dGCAG)
Who came up with the labels 'conservative' and 'liberal'? There's more than one reason I started thinking 'Constitutionalist' well before I was 29, even if it does have More Syllables.
Posted by: Helena Handbasket at May 29, 2025 12:04 PM (QRFVs)
238
Government is simply the name we give to the things we choose to do together.
Posted by: Barney Frank at May 29, 2025 11:54 AM (Aqu9a)
Go on...
Posted by: Barney Frank at May 29, 2025 11:54 AM (Aqu9a)
Go on...
Posted by: Lindsey Graham, Closeted Homosexual at May 29, 2025 12:04 PM (WeTZq)
239
Now do "conservatism."
Conservatism is the idea that we have concepts, themes, and rules in the past that we ought not eliminate, such as the constitution, the Judeo-Christian heritage, the Calvinist work ethic, and so on.
All of that presumes that mankind is flawed and sinful, and requires government, just the minimum possible government. All of that presumes that humans are broken and need boundaries, such as the 10 commandments.
Conservatism is the idea that we have concepts, themes, and rules in the past that we ought not eliminate, such as the constitution, the Judeo-Christian heritage, the Calvinist work ethic, and so on.
All of that presumes that mankind is flawed and sinful, and requires government, just the minimum possible government. All of that presumes that humans are broken and need boundaries, such as the 10 commandments.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at May 29, 2025 12:04 PM (2VST1)
240
>>>my plan is, and always has been, to keel over at my desk and get wheeled away.
Posted by: anachronda at May 29, 2025 11:57 AM (sGtp+)
=====
Good. I’m not the only one.
Posted by: anachronda at May 29, 2025 11:57 AM (sGtp+)
=====
Good. I’m not the only one.
Posted by: Turn 2 at May 29, 2025 12:04 PM (6TlG5)
241
234 I sanded nothing!
Posted by: The Central Scrutinizer at May 29, 2025 12:00 PM (KbCG3)
Bat wife: I should have married Harvey! Oh, he'd take me to the most beautiful places- like that Mercedes dealership. Moths as big as your fist!
Bat: Yeah, you used to love the banana I stole for you from the smoothie shop. You fat cow.
Posted by: Aetius451AD at May 29, 2025 12:03 PM (bss/y)
Oh, you think Harvey would have moved in with your mother and your fifty-eight sisters, do you?
Posted by: The Central Scrutinizer at May 29, 2025 12:00 PM (KbCG3)
Bat wife: I should have married Harvey! Oh, he'd take me to the most beautiful places- like that Mercedes dealership. Moths as big as your fist!
Bat: Yeah, you used to love the banana I stole for you from the smoothie shop. You fat cow.
Posted by: Aetius451AD at May 29, 2025 12:03 PM (bss/y)
Oh, you think Harvey would have moved in with your mother and your fifty-eight sisters, do you?
Posted by: Warai-otoko at May 29, 2025 12:05 PM (yvnLa)
242
237 Who came up with the labels 'conservative' and 'liberal'? There's more than one reason I started thinking 'Constitutionalist' well before I was 29, even if it does have More Syllables.
Posted by: Helena Handbasket at May 29, 2025 12:04 PM (QRFVs)
======
Labels on political thought are useful, sometimes, and never all that accurate. It's, at best, a shorthand for a loose collection of ideas.
I don't fret about it, and I just try to understand the context and intention of the given label from the given speaker and move on.
Posted by: Helena Handbasket at May 29, 2025 12:04 PM (QRFVs)
======
Labels on political thought are useful, sometimes, and never all that accurate. It's, at best, a shorthand for a loose collection of ideas.
I don't fret about it, and I just try to understand the context and intention of the given label from the given speaker and move on.
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, reflecting on change and permanence with Ozu at May 29, 2025 12:05 PM (GBKbO)
243
my plan is, and always has been, to keel over at my desk and get wheeled away.
"hell yeah!"
--congressmen
"hell yeah!"
--congressmen
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at May 29, 2025 12:05 PM (2VST1)
Posted by: DaveA at May 29, 2025 12:06 PM (FhXTo)
245
I expect the rats will find me, slumped over my desk and will eat the carcass before anyone thinks to wash away the vile smelly slime left behind.
Posted by: BurtTC at May 29, 2025 12:01 PM (dGCAG)
Rats? I’ll be lucky to have rats! No, I’ll have to rely on the bacteria and blowflies to do the job.
Posted by: BurtTC at May 29, 2025 12:01 PM (dGCAG)
Rats? I’ll be lucky to have rats! No, I’ll have to rely on the bacteria and blowflies to do the job.
Posted by: The Four Workshiremen at May 29, 2025 12:06 PM (l3YAf)
246
>>> 243 my plan is, and always has been, to keel over at my desk and get wheeled away.
"hell yeah!"
--congressmen
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at May 29, 2025 12:05 PM (2VST1)
"hell yeah!"
--congressmen
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at May 29, 2025 12:05 PM (2VST1)
Posted by: Mitch McConnell at May 29, 2025 12:06 PM (QRFVs)
247
Thx CBD. The new name for low income housing around here is "work force housing" . Not that there's any factories or mills but hey it sounds goot
Posted by: Smell the Glove at May 29, 2025 12:06 PM (eDGGN)
248
All of that presumes that humans are broken and need boundaries, such as the 10 commandments.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at May 29, 2025 12:04 PM (2VST1)
Also seems to presume the need for a trillion dollar military that must go around the world killing swarthy brown people.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at May 29, 2025 12:04 PM (2VST1)
Also seems to presume the need for a trillion dollar military that must go around the world killing swarthy brown people.
Posted by: BurtTC at May 29, 2025 12:06 PM (dGCAG)
249
my plan is, and always has been, to keel over at my desk and get wheeled away.
I'll work less if I make it past 65. But that amount of work will never be 0.
I'll work less if I make it past 65. But that amount of work will never be 0.
Posted by: Mike Armstrong at May 29, 2025 12:06 PM (ZK0nb)
250
I'm not a sociology expert, so correct me if I'm refining this down too much...
High trust societies don't need government.
Low trust societies can't exist without it.
Is that about it?
Posted by: WitchDoktor at May 29, 2025 11:45 AM (oUlN5)
High trust and low trust are not exact terms, I think the difference is that what is called high trust has a lot of cultural rules that govern how individuals work with each other, and that keeps the need for intermediation by other individuals or government low. A so-called low trust society doesn't have or won't emphasize those rules, and so requires intermediation. Part of the problem is that "no respect for the rules" goes from bottom to top, so the people involved in resolving problems also are on the take.
High trust societies don't need government.
Low trust societies can't exist without it.
Is that about it?
Posted by: WitchDoktor at May 29, 2025 11:45 AM (oUlN5)
High trust and low trust are not exact terms, I think the difference is that what is called high trust has a lot of cultural rules that govern how individuals work with each other, and that keeps the need for intermediation by other individuals or government low. A so-called low trust society doesn't have or won't emphasize those rules, and so requires intermediation. Part of the problem is that "no respect for the rules" goes from bottom to top, so the people involved in resolving problems also are on the take.
Posted by: Kindltot at May 29, 2025 12:07 PM (D7oie)
251
>>> 247 Thx CBD. The new name for low income housing around here is "work force housing" . Not that there's any factories or mills but hey it sounds goot
Posted by: Smell the Glove at May 29, 2025 12:06 PM (eDGGN)
Hmm, so in Martha's Vineyard they'd call it "nanny housing" or "landscaper housing"?
Posted by: Smell the Glove at May 29, 2025 12:06 PM (eDGGN)
Hmm, so in Martha's Vineyard they'd call it "nanny housing" or "landscaper housing"?
Posted by: Helena Handbasket at May 29, 2025 12:07 PM (QRFVs)
252
Also seems to presume the need for a trillion dollar military that must go around the world killing swarthy brown people.
Posted by: BurtTC at May 29, 2025 12:06 PM (dGCAG)
Russians are brown now?
Chinese are brown?
Posted by: BurtTC at May 29, 2025 12:06 PM (dGCAG)
Russians are brown now?
Chinese are brown?
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, buy ammo at May 29, 2025 12:07 PM (xcxpd)
253
"taxation is theft"
I always thought that this was hyperbole...but now in looking more closely at what the government actually does with my money I think it is much much closer to truth.
Remember the point of the federal government is to take as much money from the taxpayers as possible to reward its clients and employees - anything else it does is incidental
I always thought that this was hyperbole...but now in looking more closely at what the government actually does with my money I think it is much much closer to truth.
Remember the point of the federal government is to take as much money from the taxpayers as possible to reward its clients and employees - anything else it does is incidental
Posted by: 18-1 at May 29, 2025 12:08 PM (t0Rmr)
254
Are there no workhouses?
Posted by: E. Scrooge at May 29, 2025 12:08 PM (Aqu9a)
255
Who came up with the labels 'conservative' and 'liberal'?
Posted by: Helena Handbasket at May 29, 2025 12:04 PM (QRFVs)
The CIA.
Probably.
Maybe.
Posted by: Helena Handbasket at May 29, 2025 12:04 PM (QRFVs)
The CIA.
Probably.
Maybe.
Posted by: BurtTC at May 29, 2025 12:08 PM (dGCAG)
256
Before you can chop government bennies such as medical insurance and SS, you need to drastically reduce the cost of things like doctor's visits, hospital stays, housing (how is Dr going to pay for his current 5mm house?). If there is no SS then those that end up destitute have little recourse except for crime or suicide.
Posted by: Ciampino - wait it is that time at May 29, 2025 12:08 PM (sPQoU)
257
Too long for a rant. More of a morning tirade.
Posted by: Biff Pocoroba at May 29, 2025 12:08 PM (UBKzV)
258
NOOD. NPR.
Posted by: Aetius451AD at May 29, 2025 12:08 PM (bss/y)
259
Russians are brown now?
Chinese are brown?
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, buy ammo at May 29, 2025 12:07 PM (xcxpd)
Brown is the new yellow.
Chinese are brown?
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, buy ammo at May 29, 2025 12:07 PM (xcxpd)
Brown is the new yellow.
Posted by: BurtTC at May 29, 2025 12:08 PM (dGCAG)
260
Also seems to presume the need for a trillion dollar military that must go around the world killing swarthy brown people.
Neocons? That is the stereotype, yes. But they would be perfectly happy with the US fighting in Ukraine as well. Swarthy is coincidental.
Neocons? That is the stereotype, yes. But they would be perfectly happy with the US fighting in Ukraine as well. Swarthy is coincidental.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at May 29, 2025 12:08 PM (2VST1)
261
Apparently the judiciary is a crucial part of making executive decisions...
Whoodathunk?
Trump is going to have to okay visas for Harvard foreign students--because WHO DOES HE THINK HE IS!
A Judge?!
Whoodathunk?
Trump is going to have to okay visas for Harvard foreign students--because WHO DOES HE THINK HE IS!
A Judge?!
Posted by: Axman at May 29, 2025 12:09 PM (Q4cxx)
262
At least, Admiral Boorda had the decency to commit suicide.
Posted by: Tom Lantos at May 29, 2025 12:09 PM (G5+As)
263
I've no particular squabble with "leave us alone".
The problem is, we're married to the system. And when the divorce comes, who gets the house?
The problem is, we're married to the system. And when the divorce comes, who gets the house?
Posted by: Here's the Problem at May 29, 2025 12:09 PM (lQd+F)
264
Chinese are brown?
One of the bigger trends in East Asia right now are skin lightning treatments for women.
Obviously some East Asian women are quite pale to begin with...but it looks getting that look is rather important for many of the rest.
One of the bigger trends in East Asia right now are skin lightning treatments for women.
Obviously some East Asian women are quite pale to begin with...but it looks getting that look is rather important for many of the rest.
Posted by: 18-1 at May 29, 2025 12:09 PM (t0Rmr)
265
>>> 255 Who came up with the labels 'conservative' and 'liberal'?
Posted by: Helena Handbasket at May 29, 2025 12:04 PM (QRFVs)
The CIA.
Probably.
Maybe.
Posted by: BurtTC at May 29, 2025 12:08 PM (dGCAG)
"Nope." -- Bob from NSA, looking smug
I suppose I ought to go do today's critter care...
Posted by: Helena Handbasket at May 29, 2025 12:04 PM (QRFVs)
The CIA.
Probably.
Maybe.
Posted by: BurtTC at May 29, 2025 12:08 PM (dGCAG)
"Nope." -- Bob from NSA, looking smug
I suppose I ought to go do today's critter care...
Posted by: Helena Handbasket at May 29, 2025 12:09 PM (QRFVs)
266
My plan is retire from my full time job somewhere in my late 50s.
my plan is, and always has been, to keel over at my desk and get wheeled away.
Posted by: anachronda at May 29, 2025 11:57 AM (sGtp+)
My plan was to keel over while in the sack. My wish was fulfilled!! THANKYOU!!
my plan is, and always has been, to keel over at my desk and get wheeled away.
Posted by: anachronda at May 29, 2025 11:57 AM (sGtp+)
My plan was to keel over while in the sack. My wish was fulfilled!! THANKYOU!!
Posted by: Nelson R dying with a smile on my face at May 29, 2025 12:09 PM (5xuJ/)
267
>> When I think of libertarianism, I think of Milton Freidman who was no anarchist.
I think of Gary Johnson trying to sell heroin to Syrian kindergartners. That’s what every one of us libertarian aspires to be.
I think of Gary Johnson trying to sell heroin to Syrian kindergartners. That’s what every one of us libertarian aspires to be.
Posted by: Disinterested FDA Director at May 29, 2025 12:10 PM (l3YAf)
268
The state, holding a gun in your face: "I demand $$$ for the protection I provide you. Oh, and here are a few MS-13 members who are moving into your house for your cultural enrichment."
Posted by: Oglebay at May 29, 2025 12:10 PM (2ap+5)
269
Workforce housing still addresses the myth of the low paid government worker. Oh poor teachers and firefighters can’t afford to buy a home. Let’s give them a really discounted one paid for by tax dollars.
Meanwhile the firefighter is making $175k a year with overtime and the teacher makes $100k after a few years tenure and a masters degree. In my district starting salary for teachers is $54k and they top out at $108k with a master’s degree and 15 years experience. But there are programs designed just for teachers to buy homes because they’re “low income”.
Meanwhile the firefighter is making $175k a year with overtime and the teacher makes $100k after a few years tenure and a masters degree. In my district starting salary for teachers is $54k and they top out at $108k with a master’s degree and 15 years experience. But there are programs designed just for teachers to buy homes because they’re “low income”.
Posted by: Its Go Time Donald at May 29, 2025 12:10 PM (A9Vdr)
270
"Liberal" once upon a time meant Not Monarchist and Not Collectivist.
"Conservative" once upon a time meant recognizing that Liberalism is an anti-revolutionary ideology, where instead of being ushered in by bloodshed and violence, it's parents are stable traditions and institutions that defend the rights and liberty of the citizen against all threats, built up over generations. You can get Monarchy or Collectivism just by killing enough people fast enough. You can never murder your way into Liberalism, though.
Now it just means which gaggle of hyperventilating nutjobs you listen to at a preposterously high volume on the television. The words "conservative" and "liberal" now only apply to the curated fever dreams of those poor old souls with uncut cables.
"Conservative" once upon a time meant recognizing that Liberalism is an anti-revolutionary ideology, where instead of being ushered in by bloodshed and violence, it's parents are stable traditions and institutions that defend the rights and liberty of the citizen against all threats, built up over generations. You can get Monarchy or Collectivism just by killing enough people fast enough. You can never murder your way into Liberalism, though.
Now it just means which gaggle of hyperventilating nutjobs you listen to at a preposterously high volume on the television. The words "conservative" and "liberal" now only apply to the curated fever dreams of those poor old souls with uncut cables.
Posted by: Warai-otoko at May 29, 2025 12:11 PM (yvnLa)
271
I've no particular squabble with "leave us alone".
The problem is, we're married to the system. And when the divorce comes, who gets the house?
Posted by: Here's the Problem at May 29, 2025 12:09 PM (lQd+F)
By “house” do you mean the $40 trillion in debt? Because I’m happy to let blue cities take that on..
The problem is, we're married to the system. And when the divorce comes, who gets the house?
Posted by: Here's the Problem at May 29, 2025 12:09 PM (lQd+F)
By “house” do you mean the $40 trillion in debt? Because I’m happy to let blue cities take that on..
Posted by: Disinterested FDA Director at May 29, 2025 12:11 PM (l3YAf)
272
>>>SisterA's former job, now retired.
Last I knew, the former site of NAS Glenview is a high end golf course/resort. Not sure if it’s own by the city or they sold off the property to a developer.
Last I knew, the former site of NAS Glenview is a high end golf course/resort. Not sure if it’s own by the city or they sold off the property to a developer.
Posted by: one hour sober at May 29, 2025 12:13 PM (Y1sOo)
273
In May Trump lost 98% of court cases including appeals.
This is the definition of ruin if authoritarianism.
This is the definition of ruin if authoritarianism.
Posted by: Its Go Time Donald at May 29, 2025 12:17 PM (A9Vdr)
274
High trust and low trust are not exact terms, I think the difference is that what is called high trust has a lot of cultural rules that govern how individuals work with each other, and that keeps the need for intermediation by other individuals or government low. A so-called low trust society doesn't have or won't emphasize those rules, and so requires intermediation.
If that's the definition, then I'll stand by my dissent. Because we haven't had a "unified culture" in anyone's lifetime here. And pretending we do has been a big part of the problem.
If that's the definition, then I'll stand by my dissent. Because we haven't had a "unified culture" in anyone's lifetime here. And pretending we do has been a big part of the problem.
Posted by: Mike Armstrong at May 29, 2025 12:17 PM (ZK0nb)
275
Part of the problem is that "no respect for the rules" goes from bottom to top, so the people involved in resolving problems also are on the take.
----------
I've said it before--a turning point in this society's regard/disregard for truth and rules was the Clinton/Lewinsky affair. Clinton wasn't the 1st politician to be a cad, but this was the point where an entire political party trumpeted the (lowly) defense of "Everybody cheats on their spouse" and when along with it in earnest.
From there we devolved into *stupid* debates about what the mean of "is" is, and what is and isn't sex. I truly believe it was a marker point in the degradation of our nation. And I had voted for Bill Clinton twice when it took place.
----------
I've said it before--a turning point in this society's regard/disregard for truth and rules was the Clinton/Lewinsky affair. Clinton wasn't the 1st politician to be a cad, but this was the point where an entire political party trumpeted the (lowly) defense of "Everybody cheats on their spouse" and when along with it in earnest.
From there we devolved into *stupid* debates about what the mean of "is" is, and what is and isn't sex. I truly believe it was a marker point in the degradation of our nation. And I had voted for Bill Clinton twice when it took place.
Posted by: Crusader at May 29, 2025 12:24 PM (TN0g+)
276
I've said it before--a turning point in this society's regard/disregard for truth and rules was the Clinton/Lewinsky affair.
You slept through the 70s ?
You slept through the 70s ?
Posted by: Mike Armstrong at May 29, 2025 12:28 PM (ZK0nb)
277
Civil service salaries are available online.
Local snapshot: Ridley School District Salaries
Highest salary at Ridley School District in year 2024 was $217,000. Number of employees at Ridley School District in year 2024 was 478. Average annual salary was $102,175 and median salary was $115,478. Ridley School District average salary is 118 percent higher than USA average and median salary is 166 percent higher than USA median salary.
US News: Ridley School District, 12 Full Time Counselors; Test Scores at Ridley School District (where an average of $20K per pupil is spent): Continuously slipping to "dumb as rocks"; some schools with 4 of 10 schools ratings, 36.7% of students are eligible to participate in the federal free and reduced price meal, and so on.
>PA & all other states: Grants, down payment assistance and other programs are now available to public service professionals in the State of Pennsylvania, including nurses and healthcare employees, law enforcement and staff, firefighters, first responders, military and government employees.* For more information, please visit Not a Teacher. (Not a Nurse, etc.)
Who would give up that?
❤ the caste system.
Local snapshot: Ridley School District Salaries
Highest salary at Ridley School District in year 2024 was $217,000. Number of employees at Ridley School District in year 2024 was 478. Average annual salary was $102,175 and median salary was $115,478. Ridley School District average salary is 118 percent higher than USA average and median salary is 166 percent higher than USA median salary.
US News: Ridley School District, 12 Full Time Counselors; Test Scores at Ridley School District (where an average of $20K per pupil is spent): Continuously slipping to "dumb as rocks"; some schools with 4 of 10 schools ratings, 36.7% of students are eligible to participate in the federal free and reduced price meal, and so on.
>PA & all other states: Grants, down payment assistance and other programs are now available to public service professionals in the State of Pennsylvania, including nurses and healthcare employees, law enforcement and staff, firefighters, first responders, military and government employees.* For more information, please visit Not a Teacher. (Not a Nurse, etc.)
Who would give up that?
❤ the caste system.
Posted by: L - No nic, another fine day at May 29, 2025 12:47 PM (NFX2v)
278
“(The Mexican government) has failed to establish any public system of education, although possessed of almost boundless resources, (the public domain,) and although it is an axiom in political science, that unless a people are educated and enlightened, it is idle to expect the continuance of civil liberty, or the capacity for self government.”
- TX Declaration of Independence, 1836
Well, so much for that.
- TX Declaration of Independence, 1836
Well, so much for that.
Posted by: Cow Demon at May 29, 2025 01:05 PM (dSBTP)
279
I frequently ponder what SS would look like if Congress had used the funding for it's intended purposes instead of plundering it, covered by the laughable fiction of Federal "lockboxes".
Posted by: IRONGRAMPA at May 29, 2025 01:08 PM (hKoQL)
280
132. I don't want medicare. I have 80/20 BCBS for life as part of my retirement package. I'm already paying for medical.
----
That ^^
I also don't want Medicare, have neither applied nor will accept it, much to the chagrin of my "medical teams" and serving hospitals.
I, too, pay monthly for a form of BCBS for life.
Additionally, as a stellar U.S. citizen 😉, I (we) must pay a bit every month (tax) towards Medicare (for others).
BTW, worked full time for decades, sent kids to Catholic schools because I feared the public ones I (and sibs) had attended, and didn't have two nickels left to rub together for many years.
(I was once told working made no sense as I earned just $5 too much to qualify for welfare, including free education (college) & daycare for brat #1. I wasn't alone; I met many similar workers over the many years.)
----
That ^^
I also don't want Medicare, have neither applied nor will accept it, much to the chagrin of my "medical teams" and serving hospitals.
I, too, pay monthly for a form of BCBS for life.
Additionally, as a stellar U.S. citizen 😉, I (we) must pay a bit every month (tax) towards Medicare (for others).
BTW, worked full time for decades, sent kids to Catholic schools because I feared the public ones I (and sibs) had attended, and didn't have two nickels left to rub together for many years.
(I was once told working made no sense as I earned just $5 too much to qualify for welfare, including free education (college) & daycare for brat #1. I wasn't alone; I met many similar workers over the many years.)
Posted by: L - No nic, another fine day at May 29, 2025 01:16 PM (NFX2v)
281
The purpose of socialism is not to create a better society. The purpose is to create a system that funnels wealth and power to a tiny elite of otherwise useless people and allows them to live like billionaire industrialists.
The horror of this is that this works even if the country ends up a shithole. Look at the shithole countries now. Don't look at their rotting cities and miserable population. Look at how their leadership class lives.
The horror of this is that this works even if the country ends up a shithole. Look at the shithole countries now. Don't look at their rotting cities and miserable population. Look at how their leadership class lives.
Posted by: MartynWW at May 29, 2025 01:22 PM (vXpHP)
282
281 The purpose of socialism is not to create a better society. The purpose is to create a system that funnels wealth and power to a tiny elite of otherwise useless people and allows them to live like billionaire industrialists.
AND to induce people to shut up, know their place, and not aspire to be anything better, thus keeping the elites free from competition.
AND to induce people to shut up, know their place, and not aspire to be anything better, thus keeping the elites free from competition.
Posted by: Cow Demon at May 29, 2025 01:31 PM (dSBTP)
283
279 I frequently ponder what SS would look like if Congress had used the funding for it's intended purposes instead of plundering it, covered by the laughable fiction of Federal "lockboxes".
Posted by: IRONGRAMPA at May 29, 2025 01:08 PM (hKoQL)
It would look like crap, as it’s 3:1 taxpayer:beneficiary ratio, instead of the 40:1 that it was when SS began.
Posted by: IRONGRAMPA at May 29, 2025 01:08 PM (hKoQL)
It would look like crap, as it’s 3:1 taxpayer:beneficiary ratio, instead of the 40:1 that it was when SS began.
Posted by: Cow Demon at May 29, 2025 01:33 PM (dSBTP)
284
This one reminds me of something Martin Friedman published in the 1970's. He wrote, suppose we have two groups, one which wants to build temples and one which wants to build mosques. Under capitalism, each congregation figures out what they can afford to donate to the cause and spend. They either buy materials and do their own construction or they hire subcontractors. However, under a [socialist] government where permits are needed to construct a building and the government has to allocate the resources, each group has to campaign for their building. They must convince legislators and bureaucrats to approve permits and to allocate materials and to allocate construction workers' time for the project. Of course, this will lead to arguments and anger and resentment. [Paraphrasing from something I read 45 years ago.]
Posted by: Al in St. Louis at May 29, 2025 05:19 PM (pKne7)
285
25 Those items you list of government involvement mostly started with good intentions to provide for the general welfare and beneficial to the union and citizens. But as we all know every government ‘good intention’ morphs into a nightmare of loss of freedom and taking from providers to give to non providers to get their vote.
If we had a law that only providers could vote we would have less non providers and a stronger Country.
Posted by: polynikes at May 29, 2025 11:08 AM (VofaG)
This is what we need!
If we had a law that only providers could vote we would have less non providers and a stronger Country.
Posted by: polynikes at May 29, 2025 11:08 AM (VofaG)
This is what we need!
Posted by: Al in St. Louis at May 29, 2025 05:40 PM (pKne7)
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Iraqi Prisoner Claims He Was Raped... By Woman
Wonkette Announces "Morning Zoo" Format
John Kerry's "Plan" Causes Surrender of Moqtada al-Sadr's Militia
World Muslim Leaders Apologize for Nick Berg's Beheading
Michael Moore Goes on Lunchtime Manhattan Death-Spree
Milestone: Oliver Willis Posts 400th "Fake News Article" Referencing Britney Spears
Liberal Economists Rue a "New Decade of Greed"
Artificial Insouciance: Maureen Dowd's Word Processor Revolts Against Her Numbing Imbecility
Intelligence Officials Eye Blogs for Tips
They Done Found Us Out, Cletus: Intrepid Internet Detective Figures Out Our Master Plan
Shock: Josh Marshall Almost Mentions Sarin Discovery in Iraq
Leather-Clad Biker Freaks Terrorize Australian Town
When Clinton Was President, Torture Was Cool
What Wonkette Means When She Explains What Tina Brown Means
Wonkette's Stand-Up Act
Wankette HQ Gay-Rumors Du Jour
Here's What's Bugging Me: Goose and Slider
My Own Micah Wright Style Confession of Dishonesty
Outraged "Conservatives" React to the FMA
An On-Line Impression of Dennis Miller Having Sex with a Kodiak Bear
The Story the Rightwing Media Refuses to Report!
Our Lunch with David "Glengarry Glen Ross" Mamet
The House of Love: Paul Krugman
A Michael Moore Mystery (TM)
The Dowd-O-Matic!
Liberal Consistency and Other Myths
Kepler's Laws of Liberal Media Bias
John Kerry-- The Splunge! Candidate
"Divisive" Politics & "Attacks on Patriotism" (very long)
The Donkey ("The Raven" parody)
News/Chat