Hi

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

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...
Read more

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 poss...
Read more

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 ...
Read more