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A comment on "Original Critique Numero Dos" by Moira

If I understand your meaning correctly, it seems that you are advocating for the inclusion of LGBTQ friendly sex education not only in schools but also within the medical profession. I had not previously considered such training for doctors and nurses; however, it is clear that this is a necessity should we expect our medical practitioners to be able to disseminate accurate and appropriate information for their clients. Perhaps another consideration is an inclusive, evidence-based, broad curriculum sexuality program for all ages. If our children are to be well educated, they will also need proficient support from their parents and community, not to mention the need for adults to have access to age-appropriate sexuality education that benefits them as well as their children. Unfortunately, these programs will likely be challenging to implement. Although sexuality education is sparse in US schooling, access is generally approved of by parents. Contention lies in agreeing on what mate
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False Idols

The United States is born out of a struggle against the autocratic powers of monarchy. The US constitution is intended to counter the ascendancy of preeminent power in any one leader, spreading influence across the three branches; this is a system of balance that, if unduly upset, will unravel the very fabric of liberty upon which the United States is established. Alas, since the founding, executive powers have expanded, and boundaries are continually put to the test. It is vital that we not afford any president so much latitude that, even figuratively, they can “‘stand in the middle of 5th Avenue and shoot somebody’” and not lose voters (Lacapria). This fantasy is the image of a dictator, their power built on fear and personality. It is appropriate to ask: why do we allow this to happen? In many areas of life, there is a tendency to conflate authority and status with righteousness, even infallibility. The most obvious examples are cult leaders. The office of the presidency is no
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A response to “Should American Support Trump on his Immigration Policies?”

The article by an unknown author, “ Should American Support Trump on his Immigration Policies? ” explores the sticky issue of immigration, a hot topic of US politics, and a crucial component of President Trump’s campaign platform. The author questions the legitimacy of Trump’s proposed immigration policy in the context of US growth, American greatness, and human rights. The ideas presented have merit and should be examined in consideration of immigration policy reform. Immigration policy is necessary, the absence of such law would create many potential challenges to security and the economy of the country. Without a doubt, US immigration law needs reform, especially concerning DACA. While the author cites no specific evidence to back up their argument, the article alludes to the salient issues of immigration policy, namely: the economy, diversity, ethics, and seekers of asylum. While I think the author has made a mistake in associating Trump’s DACA policy with the separation of chi
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Values Trump Data

When making policy, on what should we base our decisions: values, or data? We have strong values and traditions that inform our political ideology and direction: laws are made, budgets drawn, and our country’s future set. These belief systems are a fundamental aspect of our culture and can provide a strong sense of identity. Longstanding examples of these values include free speech, voting rights, and the right to bear arms, all enshrined in the Bill of Rights. But what if conclusive evidence discredits our values or proves the methods they inspire to be ineffective? In response, we have two distinct choices: to adhere to tradition regardless, ignoring fact, or to pivot in line with our goals. To pivot is frequently problematic. Beliefs become an integral part of our identity, and in confronting them, we often feel personally challenged. However, if we disregard data when voting, setting budgets, and creating policy, we will fail to realize our objectives. Let’s use sexuality edu
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Critical Analysis of an essay by Tom Bevan

Tom Bevan explores the validity of Trump’s attention on US immigration in a post titled “ GOP Needs a Health Care Plan, Not an Immigration Plan .” Tom Devan is the co-founder of Realclear Media Group. Realclear Politics, the article’s publisher, states their goal is to “ present balanced, non-partisan analysis that empowers our readers to stay informed .” In addition to writing, Bevan oversees the company’s editorial staff and works as a guest analyst for other news sites. The article appears well researched, mostly unbiased, and provides substantial evidence to support the author’s claim that Trump’s focus on immigration is out of step with American priorities.   The publisher’s reputation is fair.  Mediabiasfactcheck.com  rate Realclear Politics as Right centered with a mixed rating for factual reporting due to the use of outside sources that have failed fact-checking tests. The evidence that is used by Beven in this article is, however, sourced from Realclear politics itself. I
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Editorial Critique #1

Michael McGough, senior editorial writer for the Los Angeles Times, pens a short and sensationalized argument in defense of Adam Schiff’s recent statement regarding President Trump’s phone call with with Ukraine Leader Volodymyr Zelensky entitled: “ Adam Schiff’s riff on Trump’s Ukraine call was more truth than parody, but still unwise ”. Although the name of the article implies a commentary that includes both favor and criticism of Schiff, once studied, the editorial’s bias is clear. Any worthy point McGough could have made is lost in excess personal attacks and weakened still by an anemic attempt to project impartiality in his concluding critique of Schiff. Both the author and publisher appear respectable and long-serving. Nonetheless, their propriety is undercut by the bitter nature of this article. From the outset, McGough uses hyperbolic and derogatory descriptors of Trump’s character and behavior. Phrases like “new extremes of crazy” and “deranged” set the tone for the intr
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Beyond Profiteering

An  article  published by  reuters.com  reports on a decision by a U.S. appeals court to continue a case alleging that President Trump has profited from officials who have patronized Trump's businesses. I found most interesting the consideration that beyond profiteering, there is an equally serious concern. As part of the charges brought by the plaintiffs, an accusation made is that officials (both foreign and domestic) may choose to patronize Trump establishments to curry favor.  Although this idea is presented in only one line within the article, it stands out to me as perhaps the most important. Most talking points relating to this subject center around the possibility of President Trump profiteering unconstitutionally. However, we should seriously consider the risk of inappropriate and unfair influence gained by those who support his businesses. President Trump is exceptionally focused on whether or not people like him. This self-concern suggests a possible weakness and a
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