Interesting News, Articles & Stuff

[florduh]

Trump and the Republicans have murdered a bunch of Texans, including little girls on a camping trip.

As Flood Deaths Rise, Texas Officials Blast Faulty Forecast by DOGE-Gutted National Weather Service | Common Dreams

"Experts warned for months that drastic and sudden cuts at the National Weather Service by Trump could impair their forecasting ability and endanger lives during the storm season," said one critic.

www.commondreams.org

Texas floods death toll rises to 27 as rescuers search for missing children

Authorities in US state face questions about whether they issued proper warnings before rain-fuelled flooding.

www.aljazeera.com

The parents of all those children who died should be happy! Now important "job creator" capitalists like Jeff Bezos can pay even less in taxes! And what did it cost? A few dozen dead kids? Their parents probably don't have important, stressful "jobs", like owning stuff!

 

[CANtalk]

The US is No Longer a Democracy. Will It Stay That Way?​

The US is No Longer a Democracy. Will It Stay That Way?

The American public is deeply divided and dissatisfied with how democracy works, but that doesn't mean it will stay that way.

inkstickmedia.com

More Americans think the U.S. is in a constitutional crisis than think the U.S. is a democracy​

More Americans think the U.S. is in a constitutional crisis than think the U.S. is a democracy | YouGov

A new YouGov survey finds that majorities of Americans feel the U.S. is in a constitutional crisis, believe the U.S. is much more politically divided than it was five years ago, and are concerned about white-supremacist extremism.

today.yougov.com

The ‘Free World’ Is Gone and There’s No Turning Back​

https://www.politico.com/news/magazine/2025/03/21/the-free-world-is-gone-and-theres-no-turning-back-00240256

Trump has dropped a big, beautiful bomb on America’s economy​

Trump has dropped a big, beautiful bomb on America’s economy

The US president is allowing China a free run at becoming the world’s first electricity superpower

www.telegraph.co.uk

‘It’s too late’: David Suzuki says the fight against climate change is lost​

https://www.ipolitics.ca/2025/07/02/its-too-late-david-suzuki-says-the-fight-against-climate-change-is-lost/

Texas Officials Blame Agency Gutted by Trump for Results of Deadly Storm​

Texas Officials Blame Agency Gutted by Trump for Results of Deadly Storm

Experts warned for months about cuts to NWS and NOAA

www.meidasplus.com

Before the US budget bill passed,

Republican Senator Tells House Not To Vote on Bill She Just Voted For​

Republican Senator tells House not to vote on bill she just voted for

Sen. Lisa Murkowski backs Trump's megabill but urges House to return it for fixes, citing Medicaid cuts and tax impacts on Alaska.

www.newsweek.com

 

[Bazinga]

Wow, if this is so much of an imposition for the poor business owner, he should just sign the business over to the guys actually running the restaurant! Problem solved! This is why capitalists famously yearn for The Revolution! Owning the means of production is so stressful!

Florduh If we ever meet it would my honor to buy you a coffee (decaf for you). Or a beer if more to your liking.

So, you think the hamburger maker/flipper is educated enough, experienced enough, and has the mental wherewithal to run the business? I he aware of the human resource issues and other has relevant business acumen to run the business? If he was that talented he wouldn't be making hamburgers. He may not be able to afford buying a business but he certainly could find a better paying job.

It was a 5 minute video using simple numbers. It also doesn't matter what the exact number is. I don't care how much raw hamburger meat the business owner buys or how nice of a place he rents.... all of that is worthless until workers transform the raw materials into a saleable product. There is no value without labor! And the only labor you've attributed to the owner is signing checks and being stressed. As if food service industry workers in this country never have to deal with financial stress themselves.

And the worker would not have a job if the owner hadn't taken the financial risk and had the business acumen to even open the business.

I mean, the hamburger maker makes hamburgers that are good enough to sell for $15+ (these days). The owner just signs checks and goes to meetings

I wish that's all I had to do to keep my job. Although I did sign about 500 checks a month. I usually took them home to sign in the evenings.
And I agree there is (not value) but business without labor. But here again is the rub. What is the value of labor? Mr. Wolff apparently thinks the value of labor is relative to profit. Hey lets talk more about the hamburger store. Let's assume that the store , in its first year, did actually make a annual profit of $300,000 (I'll even ignore expenses for this discussion). I think you and Mr. Wolff would agree that the helper would be entitled to $150,000. Now suppose the store, since being it's first year of operations had a net profit of -0-. This happens quite a bit. Does that mean the workers labor is meaningless and has no value. Of course not, we still need to pay him. Now what also happens if the fledgling businesses incurs a loss. Let's say our hamburger joint loses $10,000 in it's first year. Should the employee now have to pay the owner $5,000? Does the the employee only share in profits but not losses?

I also like this delusion that the hamburger maker isn't starting his own restaurant because he's dumb or something. No, he just isn't rich enough. And he never will be. He has as much of a chance of owning his own restaurant as a medieval serf did at becoming part of the nobility.

Really, so all business owners are rich? I have examined and consulted with many small businesses. Most of these owners were far from rich. Large corporate businesses on the other hand need much more capital and most of us are unable to provide that funding. Keep in mind that some small business start in a garage and end up turning into giant corporations (Apple, etal.) I wish you would have had your own (successful) business. You would be so much better positioned to discuss business. Don't misunderstand me. I have absolutely no problems or issues with your comments. I wish others also would chime in with their thoughts and experiences in the business world.

Floriduh I'm going to thank you again for responding respectively and sharing your thoughts and ideas. It is a Professor's job to provide facts and scenarios that open students minds and enable them to make thoughtful informed evaluations. Students, and non-students, alike untimely benefit from this. In terms of business operations Mr. Wolff has failed. It doesn't matter if his presentation was cursory. He should have presented all the relative facts of his narrative. It possibly would have added 30 seconds or minute to his video. What he did what to obfuscate in order to make his point. If he is going to try to influence people he needs do it objectively and not mislead or omit crucial facts. Do it right!!

Final 2 things - I promise.
The local library emailed me to inform me the book has finally arrived !! I'll pick it on Monday/
I watched another video from Mr. Wolff. This one is titled "Is China Capitalist, Socialist or Communist?" This is where he shines. I don't necessary agree with everything he says but I think it provides some good material. I'll send you all the link when I find it. If he would just just cease espousing about things he doesn't have any experience with (running a business).

 

[Rodney]

So, you think the hamburger maker/flipper is educated enough, experienced enough, and has the mental wherewithal to run the business? I he aware of the human resource issues and other has relevant business acumen to run the business? If he was that talented he wouldn't be making hamburgers. He may not be able to afford buying a business but he certainly could find a better paying job.

Yevgeny Prigozhin started out by selling hotdogs and then went on to own a chain of restaurants and catering companies not to mention his very successful military career but his rise to fame came threw corrupt means as he was Putin's pal so he is probably not the best example to be using

 

[florduh]

If he was that talented he wouldn't be making hamburgers.

Well we just disagree. I think someone who can make a burger good enough to sell for $15 is talented. More talented that someone who's job is figuring out how they can skim more money for themselves off the labor of others.

The business owner doesn't make the burgers, didn't raise the cows, didn't slaughter the cows, didn't build the physical restaurant. Workers did. You want me to feel bad for the capitalist because it's so HARD to figure out how to leech a little more for themselves off of other people doing actual work

Does the the employee only share in profits but not losses?

In a collectively owned operation, they wouldn't be an "employee" they'd be a co-owner so your question doesn't make sense. I think this is your main confusion. Socialism is a different way to organize labor. A democratic way. I understand you prefer authoritarianism.

I wish you would have had your own (successful) business. You would be so much better positioned to discuss business.

This is more "heavy is the head that wears the crown" bullshit. "You peasants don't understand how hard it is for the Lord to manage his holdings".

The funny part about this poor small business owner nonsense is, both he and the burger flipper are eventually going to have their lives completely destroyed by Private Equity. You have a totally delusional notion of what capitalism actually looks like in the Real World in 2025.

If he would just just cease espousing about things he doesn't have any experience with (running a business).

Milton Friedman never ran a business, but the entire Western world made his fuckin' dumbass ideas the operating system for their economies.

 

[macbill]

'Just in': Elon Musk officially launches new political party

The richest man in the world officially announced on Saturday that he has officially formed a new political party to challenge Republicans and Democrats alike.Tech CEO Elon Musk has teased several times the creation of a new party, even opening up a poll on X to see what his users think about...

www.rawstory.com

 

[Bazinga]

You,re spot on about Milton Friedman. In undergraduate school he was a hot study. Widely accepted and quoted. But I think you made my point. Wolff is no different. I'll address the rest later.

 

[Bazinga]

I think we've beat this horse to death about 20 time over. If it's okay with you, after you respond, I'd like to turn to a fresh topic.


You said:

The business owner doesn't make the burgers, didn't raise the cows, didn't slaughter the cows, didn't build the physical restaurant. Workers did.

I'm not sure what the mention of the entourage means. I assume that you don't mean they are also partners.

You said:

You want me to feel bad for the capitalist because it's so HARD to figure out how to leech a little more for themselves off of other people doing actual work.

With respect to very small companies and larger small companies (sales around $100 million - 125 or so employees) I can tell you that is not happening. Over 50 years I've met with many business owners, Board of Director, sat (more like slept) on various Boards. Usually what is discussed (not necessary in this order) is current financial status, cash flow, market share, inventory levels, addressing competition, whether old equipment needs to be retired, purchasing new equipment, upcoming changes in our market, training including sexual conduct and harassment classes, making sure we are in compliance with all federal and state requirements, and many many more. Never in 50 years have I ever heard a board member or owner bring up ways to "leech" our employees. Never. Never. That would be a business killer.

You said:
Now some disgusting low life in a business may want to do this. If he lowers pay employee satisfaction goes down the drain. This hurts the company. This is rare in the business segment we are talking about. Also the company will lose employees as they will move to a company that pays better. It costs between $1,200 to $1,500 just to train new employees (the actual cost depends on the nature of the business). Smart businesses know this. Changing jobs happens all the time particularly with the younger generation. Some change jobs many many times in their work life. You don't think corporate executives and bosses work? Sure, some don't but most do. A lot of times the boss is hands on and will micromanage much to the chagrin of the employees. Most bosses watch over the business as if it were their child. If I was still actively working I'd take you with me for a couple days. I'd even buy you lunch !!

You said:
I understand you prefer authoritarianism. There are several meanings of this word. I am unable to agree or disagree with you on this one because I don't know what you mean.

And saying that I prefer authoritarianism is UDDERLY ridiculous. And I'm going to MILK this for what's worth. Alright, I'll MOOve along. Hey you brought the cow into the conversation.

You said:
In a collectively owned operation, they wouldn't be an "employee" they'd be a co-owner so your question doesn't make sense. I think this is your main confusion.

Well, you're right as I am confused!! Help me this. The company made no profit so the co-owner (flipper) won't receive compensation? By the way that would be illegal in today's capitalistic environment. My question makes perfect sense as I asked what I just asked again (how much do we pay the flipper). How is the flipper supposed to pay his bills, buy food (well I guess he could eat the burgers), etc. Please confirm that in this socialistic example the flipper doesn't get paid because as a "partner" he shares the loss.


You said:
This is more "heavy is the head that wears the crown" bullshit. "You peasants don't understand how hard it is for the Lord to manage his holdings

I am surprised you used this quote because it is accurate. Here is the what the quote means:
The phrase "heavy is the head that wears the crown" signifies that those in positions of leadership or power bear a significant burden of responsibility and face numerous challenges. It suggests that while the outward appearance of leadership might seem glamorous or enviable, the reality involves constant pressure, difficult decisions, and the weight of expectations from others. This is an accurate statement. Idon't where the yellow line came from I don't know how to remove it.

This is so true. Again 50 years of experience. If you don't believe what the quote says indicates my assumption suspicions that you in fact never owned a business, ran a business, and are basically clueless in business operations. Now with socialism I think you are knowledgeable and much than me. Before you get angry remember you said I prefer authoritarianism. You made an assumption (of course you maybe right but I highly doubt it). My assumption is no less valuable than yours. I cannot repair a refrigerator, I cannot repair a dishwasher, I cannot not repair a HVAC unit. The difference between us is I freely admit I know nothing about these appliances (well actually I know how to turn the dishwasher on) while you pretend to be expert in business operations. I'm sorry - still love you - and I owe you a cup of coffee !!

I always have one last thing. I don't like posting my resume online. One reason why is when some folks realize the level of education the exclaim "Oh you're a college boy - so you know everything". in a condescending tone. However I have already stated that I have been educated to Doctoral level, have 50 years of business practice, teaching, and consulting. What I did not mention and I will now is that among everything else I am a CPA and hold a Masters Degree in Tax Law. So yes you can say I am an authority on these matters. You're really not going to pay the flipper?

 

[Rodney]

I said

Wall of txt incoming

You said

Can you elaborate please?



So in the UK they decided to U turn on cutting benefits to disabled people but this will mean higher taxes probably soon. Maybe if they managed the billions they get in taxes each year things like this would not be happening.

We borrowed so much in the past that the interest on this is 104 billion per year

Welfare U-turn makes spending decisions harder, Bridget Phillipson says

Bridget Phillipson does not commit to scrapping the two-child benefit cap, saying it will "come at a cost".

www.bbc.co.uk

 

[CANtalk]

Trump branded, browbeat and prevailed. But his big bill may come at a political cost​

Trump branded, browbeat and prevailed. But his big bill may come at a political cost

Barack Obama had the Affordable Care Act. Joe Biden had the Inflation Reduction Act. President Donald Trump will have the tax cuts.

www.ctvnews.ca

MTG: I’m Introducing A Bill To Ban Weather Control Because God Didn’t Create The Deadly Floods In Texas​

MTG: I'm Introducing A Bill To Ban Weather Control Because God Didn't Create The Deadly Floods In Texas - Joe.My.God.

“I am introducing a bill that prohibits the injection, release, or dispersion of chemicals or substances into the atmosphere for the express purpose of altering weather, temperature, climate, or sunlight intensity. It will be a felony offense. “I have been researching weather modification and...

www.joemygod.com

 

[florduh]

How is the flipper supposed to pay his bills, buy food (well I guess he could eat the burgers), etc.

You're Mr. FancyBusinessMan, but you don't know how startups work?

Also, the United Socialist States of America would have a proper safety net. Nobody would starve or go homeless. Even if they, inexplicably, started a business without a plan to feed themselves before it produces enough revenue to support them.

If he lowers pay employee satisfaction goes down the drain. This hurts the company. This is rare in the business segment we are talking about.

You mean the food and beverage segment? Like I said, you have a delusional view of capitalism. I know you don't think much of burger flippers. But they can't afford to rent their own tiny apartment in any major metro area in this country. I think that's disgusting.

And that's the rub. I'd have less of a problem with capitalism if every single person who worked 40 hours per week could afford to live with dignity.

Honestly, Bazinga... I want to teach you about capitalism, but not through a book. I want to take away all of your money and all of your property and stick your ass in an Amazon Gulag. Go see what capitalism actually looks like in 2025.

Amazon employees rage over being forced to work after colleague died from heart attack

Rick Jacobs, 61, was about to head home after working overnight at the DEN4 warehouse in Colorado Springs before dawn on Dec. 27.

nypost.com

'Go back to work': outcry over deaths on Amazon's warehouse floor

Billy Foister died last month after a heart attack at work. The incident was just one in a series of recent accidents and fatalities

www.theguardian.com

By the way Amazon treats their employees like absolute shit, up to and including killing them. And they're running circles around their competition. Because capitalism incentivizes barbarity.

If it's okay with you, after you respond, I'd like to turn to a fresh topic.

Bazinga, this thread is for Interesting Articles and Stuff. That's what we're supposed to post and discuss here. Like this interesting video about your favorite State sponsor of terrorism:

 

[Bazinga]

I feel the same way as you do about the bombing and death going on in Gaza. I've previously stated that even 1 death is too many. I've previously stated that I wish there was a 2 state solution where people may live in peace. I don't know why the Gazans didn't accept the proposal when offered. I wish that Hamas didn`t commit the atrocities at the music festival. The Israelis aren`t going to leave the area and the Gazans should not be forced to leave either. Im not sure they will ever reach peace.

I emphatically stated that my post was related to smaller businesses. I was perfectly clear even specifying the the revenue level and number of employees. I have no, or very little, experience with the huge corporations such as Amazon. I do purchase from them. Would you explain how Amazon is killing people. I hadn`t heard about this.

BTW I started with no money. I was raised by a single mom who was a high school dropout. There were 3 of us kids. She never drove a car. Took 2 busses to get to her job at a department store to sell pocketbook and other soft goods. My dad died in his forties leaving no life insurance. Prior to his death he sold shoes. I commenced work at the age of 9. I sold flower seeds door to door. I also sold magazines door to door. I did pretty well, not because I was a good salesperson, but on count of the neighbors knowing our situation and wanting to help. Frankly, I hadn't a clue what I was doing. A couple years later I landed what I thought was a high paying job delivering newspapers earning 5 dollars a week. I was rich !! I was so small and skinny as a child I was unable to lift and carry the heavy newspapers. So I would deliver some papers, return to get more and resume delivering them again. At the same time my uncle gave me his old lawn mover and in the summer I mowed lawns. They were really small lawns as we lived in a row home in the city. Mostly getting about 50 cents a lawn. Sometimes nice folks would give me a dollar. Thought I had hit the jackpot. During the winter I shoveled snow. Tough job to do because of my physical structure but I did okay. I don't remember where I got the shovel from. At the age of 16 I got a job flipping hamburgers making $1.10 an hour. I member the place well. It was called Burger Chef. We had additional tasks to do such as garbage collection and removal and general janitorial duties. This was a part time job. Soon after I took a 2nd part time job as a waiter. I don't remember what I got paid. It wasn't much as we survived on tips. My grades in school weren't very good as I was very tired. Just before reaching the age of 17 and using the money that I had earned I bought a car for $200. Probably wasn't even worth that much but at 17 I didn't know any better. Now I whenever I could I would take my mother to and from work, the grocery store, doctors appointments, etc. I was quickly disapointed because now I had to work even harder to be able to pay for car insurance and gas. I attended community college. I paid for it. Eventually I transferred to a 4 year college which again I paid for. While most of my friends were enjoying their high school and college experience by partying, going to sporting events, etc. I was still working 2 jobs. Advanced education was paid by my employer as part of my compensation.

As a young person I had to live with continued mistreatment by bosses particularly by the hamburger joint. I was sick of it and wanted better so that's why I attended college. I was the 1st one in my family to m attend college. One thing I wanted badly was a windows air conditioner as our row home was sweltering in the summer.

So if you really want to take away my money and property go right ahead. Doesn't scare me. I've lived through it before and survived (and thrived). I'm a lot older now but up to the challenge. I didn't quit then and wouldn't quit now. Didn't need a sociaistic hand out because capitalism and personal drive allowed me secure the American dream. You can call me a" fancybysinessman". Most would and call a me a successful business man. And I worked hard as hell to get there. I am so very pleased that I been able to help students learn, grow businesses, and more.

 

[florduh]

Didn't need a sociaistic hand out because capitalism and personal drive allowed me secure the American dream.

LOL. You are a white boomer. Our entire fucking country was a "socialist handout" for you in your youth. Utter delusion.

I attended community college. I paid for it. Eventually I transferred to a 4 year college which again I paid for.

Oh thanks for reminding me. I'm shredding your degrees too. Go pay for a college education today on $14/hour while supporting yourself. That's the equivalent of $1.60/hour from when you were a kid.

Public universities were affordable when you were young entirely due to "socialist handouts". Your best friend Ronnie put an end to that.

How the Threat of an 'Educated Proletariat' Created the Student Debt Crisis | BestColleges

The roots of the student debt crisis go back to a promise broken decades ago –– when politicians put the burden of funding higher education onto students.

www.bestcolleges.com

 

[Bazinga]

LOL. You are a white boomer. Our entire fucking country was a "socialist handout" for you in your youth. Utter delusion.

Oh thanks for reminding me. I'm shredding your degrees too. Go pay for a college education today on $14/hour while supporting yourself. That's the equivalent of $1.60/hour from when you were a kid.

Public universities were affordable when you were young entirely due to "socialist handouts". Your best friend Ronnie put an end to that.

How the Threat of an 'Educated Proletariat' Created the Student Debt Crisis | BestColleges

The roots of the student debt crisis go back to a promise broken decades ago –– when politicians put the burden of funding higher education onto students.

www.bestcolleges.com

What social handout did I get. No unemployment, no welfare, no food stamps. If you, or anyone, really wants to go to college it can be done. Don't let anyone tell you different. Gee if you think they were affordable when I attended then why was I forced to work 2 jobs? I had lots of students who had financial issues and yet managed to take my classes. My friend, the only one who is deluded is obviously you. You wish to shred my degrees. Don't. Keep them for yourself. You need them more than me. I don't need them anymore. I earned them, paid my my dues and realized the American dream. Why would you shred them. I don't understand. I told you about what I accomplished academically. Care to share your academic accomplishments? Do you even have any? This is not a dig as many people are extremely successful sans college degrees. College is nor for everyone. 1 dollar and 60 cents an hour is much more than the $1.10 I earned.

Correct about Ronald Reagan. IMHO he was one of the best Presidents we ever had. Now Jimmy Carter is another story. One of the greatest human beings to grace this earth. However, he was not a good President.

Why do you assume I'm white?

 

[florduh]

Care to share your academic accomplishments? Do you even have any?

Like every other person from my generation not born to wealthy parents, I took out a loan for my college education. Because, thanks to Reagan, you can't pay for a degree while sustaining life with any combination of jobs an 18 year old qualifies for! You don't know what you're talking about!

After graduating into a recession, I experienced a major health issue. My insurance company fucked me, and I ended up owing $90,000. Plus, the $70,000 in student loans.

I ended up paying everything back and do very well for myself today (I'm on a forum about buying expensive weed toys) but I more or less lost my entire 20's. The difference between you and me is, I don't think anyone else should have to go through what I went through that so rich people can buy more yachts.

The other difference is, I understand I got very lucky. Most people work hard. I am where I am today due to luck. So are you. Mostly by being born at a much luckier time. Same as Homer Simpson.

Opportunity Atlas shows the effect of childhood zip codes on adult success | Local Initiatives Support Corporation

www.lisc.org

One of, if not the, biggest determining factor of lifelong success in Capitalist America is the Zip Code you grew up in. Something you have NO control over.

What social handout did I get.

It's really annoying when you ask questions that were already answered by the Interesting Article/Stuff I already posted. This question was answered by a 3 minute Simpsons cartoon. You'd think a man of your educational accomplishments could handle that.

---

Anyway, back to Interesting Articles.

Texas Officials Slam Trump Weather Service for Bad Forecast

The government weather forecaster has been hit with huge cuts by the president’s administration.

www.thedailybeast.com

Weather Service staffing "clearly a concern" ahead of deadly Texas floods

The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) cut hundreds of jobs as the National Weather Service earlier this year.

www.newsweek.com

Capitalist Terrorists in our government have now murdered at least 70 Texans, including at least 21 children.

Texas flooding updates: Statewide death toll now at least 70, say officials

Dozens of people have died after heavy rain pounded Kerr County, Texas, early Friday, leading to "catastrophic" flooding, the sheriff said.

abcnews.go.com

 

[cybrguy]

 

[vapviking]

there will always be poor people. My heart goes out to them but us not my obligation to share with them. It is my pleasure to make donations to organizations that support certain segments of the needy.

You wrote this a few days ago (or was it this morning? ) and it kinda stuck with me.
You seem conflicted on the idea of giving. While you say the very rich should have to give something back, you personally say you have no obligation, that it should be at your pleasure to donate to organizations/causes that please you, that support "certain segments" of the needy.

I can appreciate that you endorse universal health care, and social programs to help disadvantaged people; this shows some open-ness to a kind of "socialism lite". I think that, as a country, we will be moving in that direction, and it will be called Democratic Socialism. At this point, we need a way to rein in unbridled capitalists.

IMO, the burger flipper should make at minimum, a "living wage." How much should the richest man on earth be allowed to "earn" before he gets out of bed in the morning?

It seems your opinion that poor people have chosen their plight, they have decided not to go get a paper route, not to flip burgers and not go to college, not to be a PhD'd professor, not to follow the American Dream.

Dude, I'm a white boomer and maybe even a little older than you, and I can see that the world has moved on from the American Dream narrative. Please don't ask me for empirical data or a book to read.
Let's see what an artist has to say...
I offer you some perspective from a very bright "young" person.
(NYTimes said he "sings the news", which is more apparent in songs of his like "Sometimes You Bomb Iran," etc ). He also "sings the culture."

 

[Bazinga]

Gee a 3 minute Simson cartoon is your is your idea of validity. Did you attend Simpson University to learn how all this works? Really? Yachts? Where have I mentioned yachts. I don't care what rich peope do with their money. Obviously the funds should not be used for terrorism, etc. It`s their money to do with what they please. No one (including both of us) have right to tell them how they must spend their wealth. They should be held responsible to pay their fair share of taxes in order to help fund social platforms.

You are certainly educated enough to know that the show is for entertainment. Do you think we should ask The Simpsons for advice as to end the war in the middle east?. I've had no success in understanding Quantum physics. Do you happen to have Homer's email address. You have failed to answer many of my questions. And, of course, you're not obligated to do so. Just look at the last post where I asked you how do you know I'm white (crickets). I asked you why you brought the entourage (including the cow) into the duscussion (crickets). So no ,your did not answer all the questions

I have 2 sons. My youngest went to local state college. He received a very small scholarship and we helped him with rest of the tuition. Frankly, it wasn't terribly expensive by today's standards. He graduated with a 4 year degree and then worked his butt off. His wife states he gets his work ethic and ambition from me. I don't know about that. At the age of 35 he became a multi millionaire. Not off the backs of others but due to hard work, willingness to learn, and perseverance. He is very charitable and good natured kid (i guess he's technically not a kid anymore). Should I give you his phone number and you complain to him about his weath and instruct him on how he should divide it up. How dare he he be rich Right? . He lost his home in the Pacific Palisade fire. They got out essentially with the clothes on their backs and some baby stuff. He never complained or asked for a handout. He went back to working hard. The most amazing part of this story is he did it without advice from your Homer Simpson guru.

You can succeed in today's environment. You may have to work a little harder to reach your dream but it is definitely attainable. With socialism innovation diminishes and laziness grows. Think about it. You suggested that the business owner shares the profits with their employees. Why go to school, bust my butt if I'm going to equally share profits with the owner. As an owner why would I make large capital investments, take on the risk, etc. when the eraser installer is earnings are equal to mine. This is simply common sense. Your method as you're described it haven't worked anywhere in the world that I'm aware of.

Lastly, assume I'm the business owner of both the hamburger joint and the pencil factory. You as my employee, under your plan, are entitled to share equally in the profits. Me, as a savy business owner would aquire a machine to install the erasers and a machine that makes the burgers. I don't need you anymore. You will probably call me a SOB but this how it works in real life. And its been happening forever for good or bad. You can't stop it. Next time you go to Burger King take a look at how the burgers are prepared. They buy them already formed and an unskilled employee tosses them on a conveyor belt to travel through the fire (hence flame broiled). My point is this technology has eliminated employee(s) jobs. Take a look at McDonalds. You can order right from the kiosk. Employee reduction. Go to Walmart, Target, etc. Self checkouts. Employee reduction. Unless the government takes over businesses your plan will never work. Just ask Homer.

 

[florduh]

Your method as you're described it haven't worked anywhere in the world that I'm aware of.

Also, you're wrong. Worker's cooperatives have existed for centuries.

‘In the US they think we’re communists!’ The 70,000 workers showing the world another way to earn a living

The Basque Country’s Mondragón Corporation is the globe’s largest industrial co-operative, with workers paying for the right to share in its profits – and its losses. In return for giving more to their employer, they expect more back

www.theguardian.com

we helped him with rest of the tuition. Frankly, it wasn't terribly expensive by today's standards. He graduated with a 4 year degree and then worked his butt off. His wife states he gets his work ethic and ambition from me. I don't know about that. At the age of 35 he became a multi millionaire

LOL "Son of a millionaire becomes a millionaire, details at 11"

You are so out of touch it's incredible. I would've given my left nut to have my daddy write a check for my college, lol. Holy shit.

My point is this technology has eliminated employee(s) jobs

LOL all of that automation is taking place UNDER CAPITALISM. YOU ARE MAKING MY POINT FOR ME. McDonalds doesn't have to "share the profits" but they're still finding ways to dick over workers.

Don't get me wrong, I love automation!

 

[vapviking]

You suggested that the business owner shares the profits with their employees.

No, I think he suggested that people involved are neither employee nor employer. All are owners, kinda like a co-op apartment building.

You keep trying to see Socialism thrugh a Capitalist lens, like, why Socialism won't work under Capitalism or something.

You allow that this American Dream thing has worked great for you, and I guess your son, and that business people at some "small business" level are justified in having the world by the balls; hey, they earned it! You say.

But you also think anything those BIG Coporations do to dehumanize their labor is unfair (you add a disclaimer, 'that's not me, that's a whole other level I'm not as familiar with.". Who draws the line between theses two, between the upper middle class and the elite weathy class?

You ask for examples of a functional Socialiist country. It is not hard to see some flaw in any one of the choices.
But ask the same question about functional Capitalist country, and I predict your answer would be to just look how successful the US is, to which I would ask, "by what measure?" And by what means?

 

[chillAtGVC]

Unless the government takes over businesses your plan will never work. Just ask Homer.

That does not work out so well either. I've been in actual socialist countries. They invariably suck for the people living in them (other than the top cadre, re Animal Farm).

It is interesting to read Marx, he did not seem concerned with the happiness of the proletariat so much as ensuring misery for the bourgeoisie. It is the politics of jealousy. Capitalism is what makes people's lives better. Look up micro-lending for many examples of small capitalism improving poor people's lives.

The problem with the US (and most other western countries) is *crony capitalism*. Fight to get rid of that, not try some flawed ideology that has never worked. Though, I don't see that happening without something like term limits and the politicians are never going to vote for that. Still, I'd take flawed capitalism over some perfect implementation of socialism every time.

Ultimately, you are arguing facts and reason against people's religious views. They don't want to hear what you say, they just want to convert you.

 

[Bazinga]

That does not work out so well either. I've been in actual socialist countries. They invariably suck for the people living in them (other than the top cadre, re Animal Farm).

It is interesting to read Marx, he did not seem concerned with the happiness of the proletariat so much as ensuring misery for the bourgeoisie. It is the politics of jealousy. Capitalism is what makes people's lives better. Look up micro-lending for many examples of small capitalism improving poor people's lives.

The problem with the US (and most other western countries) is *crony capitalism*. Fight to get rid of that, not try some flawed ideology that has never worked. Though, I don't see that happening without something like term limits and the politicians are never going to vote for that. Still, I'd take flawed capitalism over some perfect implementation of socialism every time.

Ultimately, you are arguing facts and reason against people's religious views. They don't want to hear what you say, they just want to convert you.

Nice !! Get ready for the onslaught from the folks who want the reallocation of peoples wealth. It's all good. Greater minds than ours have been on opposite sides of debates for quite some time and never change their opinions. The nature of the debate isn't the problem. In my opinion it is the veracity and tenor of the debaters. For example we can debate whether chocolate or vanilla ice cream is better. Good debate. Could be fun. But when one side or the other states that the opposing flavor could kill (without evidence) and you're stupid for promoting it is when the debate becomes meaningless. I know this is very extreme example but I think you get the drift. I agree with you when you say "Still, I'd take flawed capitalism over some perfect implementation of socialism every time." I just haven't seen any success where forced income equality (a part of socialism) has been forced on a population. I don't if in fact it has been imposed at all on any country.

 

[chillAtGVC]

I just haven't seen any success where forced income equality (a part of socialism) has been forced on a population. I don't if in fact it has been imposed at all on any country.

The Khmer Rouge did it in Cambodia. I would argue that it was a very pure socialist country. As I am sure that you know, it did not result in wonderful lives for the citizens. I spent several years working in a refugee camp in in SE Thailand. The things the Cambodians saw and did... Absolutely horrific. But they did all have the same income!

One of the things that I think makes socialism worse is that the people who promote it really, really believe in it. If things aren't working out well, the reaction is always more socialism. At least when capitalism is not working well, the result is usually less capitalism, not more (see the many social programs in capitalist countries).

 

[JBone65]

So, you don't understand the basics of what socialism or capitalism are, yet you're certain you hate socialism and love capitalism and want to kiss it on the mouth?

Conservatives love crying about taxes, but nobody steals from you more than your boss.

Is this a private conversation? Can I rant?

I would argue that the American Democratic experiment has gone off the rails to some degree. Our society is broken IMO. The foxes took over the hen house. All of our elected representatives have been bought by lobbyists, and foreign interests. Corporations can contribute unlimited amounts to election campaigns, so individuals have no voice whatsoever. There's no worker protection or safety nets in the US. Minimum wage is $7/HR and that's the only rule. The tax laws greatly favor the wealthy. It's always the wealthy that wanna do away with regulations, so they can make more money. The idea of capitalism, while it sounds like something good, makes it normal to be 100% greedy and wealthy and not help anyone who is suffering. Instead of socialized medicine, we have commercialized medicine. We can never have socialized medicine, or even preventative medicine, because our pharmaceutical companies set the standard of care laws, and they intend to milk us for every penny they can get. We'll always be involved in a conflict or war because there's big money to be made in the military industrial complex. Because of greed, we've essentially become the world's evil empire. Even our religion is commercialized and weaponized to some degree. 60% of Trump voters identify as evangelicals. Most of them have been motivated by white nationalists to do "what they think is right".

I worked in the oil industry and was a die hard Republican. I began to see through it when Obama was running in 2008. I saw greed and racism on the same side. Oh well, don't see any way to change it at this late date. With autocratic Trump in power, we're probably all fucked.

 

[florduh]

@Bazinga I just want to say, I meant no offense to your son. As a Millennial Supremacist, I like it when one of us gets their bread! (Unless he's like a weapons dealer or something).

The problem with the US (and most other western countries) is *crony capitalism*.

LOL. "Real capitalism has never been tried". Funny enough, Noam Chomsky of all people agrees with the local Canadian Trumpist!

"Crony Capitalism" is the only kind that has ever or will ever exist. A "pure capitalist system" would collapse under its contradictions almost immediately.

One of the things that I think makes socialism worse is that the people who promote it really, really believe in it. If things aren't working out well, the reaction is always more socialism.

Do they censor the existence of China in Marx Carney's Canada or is there a gas leak up there or something

Vietnam has also been liberalizing their markets for a while now. This is what Ho Chi Minh City looks like:

Speaking of Uncle Ho...

The Khmer Rouge did it in Cambodia. I would argue that it was a very pure socialist country. As I am sure that you know, it did not result in wonderful lives for the citizens. I spent several years working in a refugee camp in in SE Thailand. The things the Cambodians saw and did... Absolutely horrific. But they did all have the same income!

Yeah I wonder how all that happened???!

The entire Pol Pot affair is America's fault. A communist country we committed a genocide against had to clean up our mess in Cambodia.

No offense to anyone in particular, but Right Wingers have a fantastical, childlike knowledge of history.

There's an excellent season of the award-winning Blowback podcast about Cambodia: