http://blogcritics.org/ A sinister cabal of superior bloggers on music, books, film, popular culture, politics, and technology - updated continuously. en Copyright 2005-2007 by the authors Thu, 5 May 2005 06:20:20 EDT http://backend.userland.com/rss Blogcritics.org custom software http://blogcritics.org/ Phillip WinnSunday, August 26, 2007, marks the switch of all Blogcritics.org article feeds from full-content to short-content. This is the result of several converging factors, and is unfortunately a permanent decision (as permanent as any decision can be on the web, that is). We are aware of all of the reasons that this is a Bad Idea, and we are aware that some of you will be quite upset about having to click on something to read the free content, and we're sorry. Unfortunately, despite great effort, full-content feeds are not currently economically viable. Two other factors are involved: full-content feeds have resulted in an unprecedented level of content theft, with BC content appearing on many websites, usually spam sites, without attribution or permission. This duplicate content causes a cascading set of problems, not the least of which is that search engines generally aren't favorable to duplicate content, and don't always guess correctly. Finally, our RSS advertising partner is strongly in favor of short-content feeds. We hope that you'll continue to subscribe to BC via RSS, and when an article grabs your eye, it's only a click away, still free on the BC website. Thank you for your understanding. Administration0@blogcritics.org Sun, 26 Aug 2007 12:00:00 EDT http://blogcritics.org/archives/2005/05/05/062020.php Sapere AudeHow effective is the United Nations in international affairs, particularly in disarmament and peace keeping missions? The answer is, not effective at all. It has proved virtually ineffective to prevent endemic skirmishes between neighboring nation-states and among international nation-states. Here is another question: Is the United Nations necessary in spite of its failures? The answer is yes, and the reason is because there is no other international forum of comparable importance and almost global representation. The United Nations is effective only if its member nation-states obey its edicts and participate within set parameters.Members continue to employ the United Nations as a useful conduit in diplomatic issues and debate at government levels, and although this is the case, the United Nations has no practical power or influence in matters dealing with war and peace. What is the reason for its ineffective role? It is because of the egoism of member power nations- the United States, the Soviet Union, China, Japan, Italy, France, and so on- that deprives it of the power to operate decisively. The veto power held by members of the Security Council hinders the United Nations in fulfilling it role and gives license for powerful countries to invade weaker ones with impunity. Furthermore, the Second United Nations Special Session on Disarmament held in June, 1982, is a pathetic failure as witnessed with the proliferation of arms trades around the world. No matter what critics espouse about the United Nations, it must be strengthened from within no matter how dismal its record for peacekeeping and other such issues. Today, the United Nations must regain the trust of the international community, and the only way to achieve this is to demand reform from top to bottom. Its members must abandon pride and work together to bring about peace. There is still hope for the United Nations, an institution that, even with its impropriety and failures, world leaders continue to address debate and discuss issues affecting their nation-state and its role in the international community. Politics29057@blogcritics.org Thu, 5 May 2005 06:20:20 EDT http://blogcritics.org/archives/2005/05/02/035735.php Sapere AudeNorth Koreans are proud nationalists which defines the unique way they interact with other people. North Koreans take themselves very seriously, do not take criticisms lightly, and are easily offended. Furthermore, they trust no one. North Koreans believe that the United States is trying to "push them around"; that the U.S. has "no respect"; and that the U.S. is "trying to take over the world". The North Korean government believes that the U.S. is a terroristic country, with its own terrorist network, worldwide.North Korea is the center of attention once again, after apparently testing a short range missile, Sunday.On CNN, White House Chief of Staff Andrew Card said this,"North Koreans "are living in poverty -- many in concentration camps. They do not have any exercise of democracy or freedom. They are not allowed to contact the outside world. [Kim] is not the kind of leader that is comfortable with the rest of the world."On NBC's "Meet the Press," Card portrayed North Korea as a target of U.S. efforts to inspire democracy around the world."We're doing everything we can to make sure that the people of North Korea recognize that they're being cheated and denied opportunities that come with freedom and democracy," he said.Card's statements exemplify the extreme ignorance of the Bush Administration about North Koreans. Americans will never understand the reasons behind the madness that North Koreans exhibit--will never understand the nationalism that North Koreans pride themselves. The very idea of nationalism has been openly challenged by Americans for decades. But even then, Americans do not push the envelope. They question authority, but do not seek to undermine it. (With the exception of the Oklahoma City bombings and a few others and even then, these were Americans killing Americans. A tragedy which leaves many with one fundamental question: Why? Was Timothy McVeigh's "inalienable rights" being threatened? Was democracy being threatened? Will we ever know?)To North Koreans, nationalism is their foundation of tradition; the basic principles of their family way of life. They are saying, "if you want us to work with you, you must treat us with respect, accept our way of life and leave us to run our country the way we see fit."North Korea acts this way because its government feels threatened by extinction of its values--its people--its way of life; therefore, the government is compelled to show that it will not be pushed around by another "foreign" country.Bush knows that the United States cannot incur another war-- but he should have looked ahead and planned his foreign policy accordingly. Today, his aggressive (arrogant) foreign policies have polarized the U.S. from other countries and their leaders. The U.S. has made itself a self-appointed "watch dog" of the world. The constant drivel of "in the name of democracy/a better future/freedom from the oppressed, is bulls+++.North Koreans ask, if the U.S. is the shining example of democracy, then why are millions of Americans living in poverty; why are there tens of thousands of homeless Americans; why is crime high and cannot be contained; why do Americans defraud their government; why does America have a drug problem; why can't Americans take care of their elderly; why is the suicide rate high in America; why is racism still an issue; why is AIDS rampant in America; why do Americans pay so much for healthcare and what happens to Americans who can't afford healthcare; why are millions of Americans unemployed; why is there an overflow in American prisons; why do Americans fight about unborn fetuses; the right to live or die; why do political candidates spend multi-millions of dollars on campaigns, then argue about poverty. KISS... keep it simple, stupid... and lastly, "if America thinks it can fix other countries problems, why can't it fix its own?"(a 10-year-old niece of mine contributed this last piece). Do these social and economic issues define democracy?Bush is now aware that the United States has to fight many wars, topple many governments, kill and destroy many lives, all in the name of "Democracy", but really, the agenda is to take over that country's natural resources. Does the U.S. have plans to bring democracy to North Korea? What does the U.S. have to gain if it invades North Korea? We all know what's at stake in Iraq and Iran.As the U.S. continues to foot the bill of the Iraqi War and drive itself to ultimate bankruptcy, other countries, even those that are pro-U.S., are finding lucrative ways to finance their government coffers and this means making deals with countries that are anti-U.S.Today, North Korea prepares for war against the U.S., if the U.S. decides to "bring it on" the shores of North Korea. Politics28910@blogcritics.org Mon, 2 May 2005 03:57:35 EDT http://blogcritics.org/archives/2005/04/06/054141.php Sapere AudeWisdom is not the way of powerful weapons or a massive army. It is not in the arrogance and stature of a man, nor his empty words.Wisdom walks quietly in the streets, talks briefly and with sincerity and patience, and never seeks to divide or plant seeds of hatred and doubt.Wisdom's journey is slow and hard with many enemies-- known and hidden-- sometimes its friends disguised as loved ones, set out to destroy and even then, wisdom forgives.Wisdom sees beyond the hatred and anger generated by a misguided country and seeks to bring together differences of opinions for the good of all.Wisdom respects the dignity of mankind and understands that human suffering must be shared by all; that love and compassion cannot be bought but given freely and nothing should be expected in return.When wisdom has breathed its last breath, it takes comfort in the belief that it has done its best with the time it was given and now, a new journey begins.Wisdom was embodied in Pope John Paul II. May wisdom prevail in his successor. Culture27815@blogcritics.org Wed, 6 Apr 2005 05:41:41 EDT http://blogcritics.org/archives/2005/02/24/074958.php Sapere AudeI'm a big spender at our local Salvation Army thrift shop. Today, I spent $2.25 on 15 books, paper and hardbound, which explains my current giddy mood. One of those books just happened to be "Slander-Liberal Lies About the American Right", written by Ann Coulter.Yes, my curiosity got the better of me, my Republican friends forever urging me to read one of her books. When I saw it, I knew the hand of God was leading me to buy it-- that it was not a coincidence, but my destiny. I found it funny though that someone would give up this book and relegate it to a thrift shop. It's practically new! I'm ecstatic!Well, I've begun reading the book and as a whole, when read in its proper context, it makes a strong argument in a quirky kinda way-- her premise that all political ills can be blamed on liberals. But taken out of context, wow... It's pretty funny. For example, Ms. Coulter made this corollary regarding liberals' perception of conservatives:"It is important for liberals to demean the people they oppose to reinforce their sense of class superiority. Anyone can associate himself with the elite by adopting the left's snooty superiority and laughing at Republicans for being dumb hicks. Adopting the prejudices of the powerful interests is a way of saying you are with the "in" crowd. You are with the cool Hollywood types who hang out with Gwyneth Paltrow, Sean Penn, and David Geffen-not the working-class hillbillies who go to NASCAR races."*blinks..... laughing uproariously* Thank you Ms. Coulter for making my day! I can't wait to finish this book!Ms. Coulter is a daring writer, a writer with vision, a writer who omnisciently intuits these thougths and shares it with her cult-like readers.I highly recommend this book. If you're having trouble finding it in your local bookstore, try the Salvation Army- you might just find a copy. Politics25937@blogcritics.org Thu, 24 Feb 2005 07:49:58 EST http://blogcritics.org/archives/2005/02/09/033613.php Sapere Aude$80 billion for Iraq- Is that enough? Okay, I'm not going to waste your time and argue the pro's and con's of the"red" and "blue" states and what they stand for, politically, and I'm thinking it's getting a bit old. Let's talk about the bottom line, and the bottom line is money.As the U.S. continues its reconstruction efforts in Iraq, post-election- sustaining our troops, training Iraqi troops, and keeping a semblance of control has greatly stretched the U.S. coffers. Eighty billion more, please. What follows is a very interesting article about how much the U.S. has spent and the trail of intrigue that follows... Follow the money! Read on and click the link below for the full story.The Iraq War currently costs American taxpayers $1.5 billion a week. With 1,438 US fatalities and calls for withdrawal surfacing, the Bush Administration wants an additional $80 billion to maintain the occupation.Even before this funding request, the war's costs have amounted to three times more than the $60 billion Bush estimated before the invasion. When former White House budget chief Lawrence Lindsay projected the likely costs at closer to $100 or $200 billion, he was publicly admonished by the Administration and later fired. It's actually worse than Lindsay thought; factoring in the $80 billion, the war will cost $105 billion this fiscal year alone. Click here http://www.thenation.com/blogs/outrage?pid=2168 Politics25290@blogcritics.org Wed, 9 Feb 2005 03:36:13 EST http://blogcritics.org/archives/2005/02/01/075900.php Sapere AudeBlowback... a term invented by the CIA for its own internal use, defined as the unintended consequences of American policies, has become a very grim reality as U.S. forces continue their efforts to reconstruct and stabilize Iraq, even after that country held its historical election in over 50 years. A historical perspective must be made here. During the Gulf War years, 1991-1998, our U.S. government raised a blockade against Hussein in Iraq, which contributed to the deaths of approximately 500,000 Iraqi civilians due to disease, malnutrition, and inadequate medical care. By 1999, the policy move still had not brought down Hussein's regime of terror, but perhaps ensured that surviving Iraqis were likely to hold a grudge against the U.S. government and its citizens.Even during this time, teams of weapons inspectors were given the responsibility of uncovering Hussein's efforts to develop weapons of mass destruction. Nothing significant which would garner domestic and international media attention was discovered. History of course, is known to repeat itself.The intimate details of foreign policy is not usually followed by an American public, this fact which supports the belief that misdirected misunderstandings regarding U.S. policy is greatly misconstrued, hence the division within its citizenry. For example, as a part of history's timeline, it is a fact that at one time, the U.S. was the top salesman of military weapons to countries such as Iran, Iraq, Turkey, Greece, Saudi Arabia, Israel, and China and Taiwan, selling arms to these nation states in ongoing conflict, one of its biggest customers, Hussein, with almost a limitless line of credit because of his country's oil reserves.Putting historical references in proper perspective assists one in understanding the mindset of a nation of people who strongly believe in a cause that they would fight for, given the circumstances that surround them. By my own admission, this is a rather simple discipline of thought and certainly does not challenge or explain more complicated affairs that would refute this writing. However, a different perspective is welcome from time to time, given the highly volatile and emotional nature of the American people.With a second term, a new Cabinet, and an Iraqi election, will President Bush invoke a new international diplomatic policy in post-election Iraq and what are the political consequences at home and the international community?"Blowback- The Costs and Consequences of American Empire" by Chalmers Johnson, clears away the cobwebs from the reader's mind about U.S. global policies and its historic disastrous effect on those abroad and its lasting consequences at home. Books24971@blogcritics.org Tue, 1 Feb 2005 07:59:00 EST http://blogcritics.org/archives/2005/02/01/074102.php Sapere AudeVictory is heralded worldwide for the Iraqi people as they cast their votes, Sunday, for new leadership, which brings me to this point: I've read many political blogs written by diehard party liners, who constantly attack each other's political parties. These bloggers get very emotional and reading them is sometimes a turn-off. Stop with the distinction between "red" and "blue" states; right and wrong policies. Iraq's election was a victory as well for the United States and all Americans who treasure their freedom. In this instance, we are all united , "One nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for All." Let's put down the swords for a while and realize that this is an opportunity for us to learn and study the birth and growth of a new government.In spite of victory, many uncertainties remain, and the question I pose is, will the new government evolve into an Islamic Republic or will the frail seed of democracy survive and grow and claim the hearts of the Iraqi people?A glimpse into the future may reveal neighboring Iran having influence within the new government, giving rise to another concern for the President, a potential reality, and if this is the case, foreign policy will shift to Iran (as it already has), an historically anti-America country that breeds terrorists and insurgent groups, creating new fodder for the American people and the politicians at home. Former policies that were clear-cut will now stimulate complications, and although an election was held, the war is still far from over, bringing optimistic victory, yet constrained and cautious.How far is the United States willing to go if its objective is to bring democracy to the Middle East; will this mean another war, and will the American people support it? Iraq and Iran are intrinsically connected and to cut the umbilical cord will be difficult. This concern has validity simply because the Islamic religion is pervasive in the daily lives of the Iraqi people. The world watches and waits. Politics24970@blogcritics.org Tue, 1 Feb 2005 07:41:02 EST http://blogcritics.org/archives/2005/01/18/170758.php Sapere AudeHaving begun my odyssey in the blogging community, I couldn't help but notice that bloggers have definite views about their government. Republican, Democrat, Libertarian, and everyone else outside and in-between these traditional political parties inherited the same passion and are not shy to tell it, which is what makes America so unique from other nation states.It has been said that Americans' are truly blessed but have forgotten the sacrifices made to achieve the freedom we enjoy today, as my godmother tactlessly puts it to anyone who cares to listen. Generations have passed since the Revolutionary and Civil Wars and today, freedom is enjoyed and accepted and has become ubiquitous--the freedom that our forebears fought so passionately, many now take for granted.Which brings me to this. Not long ago, Communist Russia was our sworn enemy, until former President Ronald Regan and Russia's Mikhail Gorbachev forged a bond that transcended politics and reached into the soul of humanity and in the process, led to the end of the Cold War.Today, the enemy is world terrorism, brought intimately and devastatingly home on 9/11. The United States of America- the most powerful country in the world-fell victim to a terrorist attack and the men and women who died and those who gave their lives to save and rescue, have not gone quietly into the night. May we have the same loyalty, respect and grieving memory for our troops and allies who have paid the ultimate sacrifice in Iraq.Americans' at home and overseas united, mourned and prayed, and began rebuilding the "spirit" of America. The enemy would try to topple a nation of ethnic diversity, but it can never contain and control freedom, for freedom lives in the heart and spirit of its citizenry and cannot be bought or destroyed.During the 2004 election, America was divided; Americans have adopted different ideological and political systems-- the war in Iraq had taken its toll, but the people spoke and George Bush was re-elected. There are rumors that the U.S. plans to invade Iran, but perhaps not merely a rumor but fact, according to a journalist who stands by his sources whom he vouches are reliable. Pentagon officials were incensed when the story hit the newsstands, vehemently spewing nebulous statements, but neither confirming or denying the story. If the President decides to invade Iran because its nuclear arms program is still active, then it is only logical that he will invade North Korea as well. Can America sustain its economy on the domestic front by invading Iran? Iraq, Afghanistan.. how much more can the U.S. coffers sustain?President Bush will soon deliver his Inaugural Address; what is expressed will hopefully heal a country rift with unrest and uncertainty, and validate his right to lead the world's most powerful nation. Make good decisions, Mr. President for an entire nation rests in your hands.Are you a Republican, a Democrat, a Libertarian, or a member of another political group? Whatever group you claim, the ultimate truth will cast its mighty wings and overshadow any party line you choose, for that mighty power is, "I am an American". I am an American and I will make no apologies for being who I am and what I stand for. There will always be grumblings among a people of diversity, but some truths are deeply rooted in the heart. Let the nation heal and let us remember that a nation that cherishes freedom, must be prepared to fight for it. Politics24385@blogcritics.org Tue, 18 Jan 2005 17:07:58 EST http://blogcritics.org/archives/2005/01/18/165052.php Sapere AudeThe ancient city of Babylon has once again become a casualty of war in the Middle East where U.S. and Polish coalition forces stationed themselves, using the ancient site as a military depot for the past two years, as reported by Rory McCarthy and Maev Kennedy, writers for The Guardian.Babylon was chosen as the site for the US military base in April 2003, just after the invasion of Iraq. I must point out that The Guardian is a liberal, anti-Iraq war newspaper, its articles biased against the U.S. and its allies. However, the facts cannot be disputed.As a history major, this disturbs me. Yes, this is Babylon, a city that was occupied by King Nebuchadnezzar in the Old Testament. "Babylon is a city renowned for its beauty and splendour a thousand years before Europe built anything comparable," according to the article.Archaeologists are protesting the desecration and have called for an investigation. Polish troops have since turned over the site to museum officials. Just a casualty of war, among thousands of other atrocities.A profound thought is realized here, that a site that has survived human machinations for over 7,000 years can be destroyed in just two, a testament to this world's meme of "destroy and consume," a parasitic attitude that has infected our civilization for centuries.Perhaps what is left can be preserved for future generations to visit and study. It's a maudlin thought that future historians must relegate themselves to reading about the ancient city, rather than touch the edifices and stones that were touched by an ancient civilization of ages past. Culture24383@blogcritics.org Tue, 18 Jan 2005 16:50:52 EST http://blogcritics.org/archives/2005/01/12/054107.php Sapere AudeA United States nuclear submarine traveling at full speed, ran head on into an undersea mountain off the shores of Guam. One sailor died and others sustained injuries. I drove down to Apra Harbor where the sub is docked, but security is tight. A nuclear sub cruising Guam's waters? How odd... I find it interesting that over a month ago, CNN reported that a Chinese nuclear sub was discovered covertly splicing into Guam and Japan waters. Since then, U.S. military activities have increased. Guam, for those of you who are not aware, is located in the Western Pacific and is home to over 150,000 residents from all over the world, the indigenous residents claiming the distinct Chamorro heritage. Guam is also a U.S. military installation base.Am I the only one fixated on the likely possibility of a war with North Korea? After all, the North Koreans have flicked the proverbial finger at the United States announcing that they will not decrease or cease their nuclear arms program, bringing unease and anxiety in the halls of Congress and the Oval Office. Financially and militarily, the United States cannot afford another war on the other side of the globe. The U.S. is the strongest country in the world, but sending U.S. troops around the world to fight wars will tax its coffers. And dare we say the -D- word?Koreans are a mysterious people culturally. North Koreans in particular are proud, stubborn, emotional, and decidedly anti-American. The internationally recognized protocol does not apply to them.. because they do not accept it. They have a structure and style that is uniquely theirs which is difficult to understand because of its complexity and volatileness. The United States must make all efforts to better understand this diversified culture as they struggle for common ground.There are many Koreans who have embraced Western ways, to the dismay of their parents and third generational forebears. On Guam, many Koreans are productive members of our community. But during times of peace, one does not question another's loyalty. Patriotism is an integral part of the Korean community, no matter where they live in the world. Koreans are a study in contrasts because on one hand, they struggle to safeguard the old ways while on the other, they realize the need to partake in world globalization and the need to find their niche and define the role they play in it.An interesting fact is that the North Korean government bought the rights to the beloved book, "The Diary of Anne Frank", for translation and publication in their native tongue for a measly $2,000. This book is required reading in all North Korean schools. The purpose is to instill in all North Korean children how NOT to act when one is invaded. Do not hide. Do not be afraid, for fear will defeat you. To them, Anne Frank was a coward. It is certainly a unique interpretation, but this is how they think. Survival, patriotism, and a stake in world globalization runs deep in the minds of North Koreans and indoctrination begins at home and is further solidified in schools.The course of a nation is determined by its culture and the mindset of its people, and hopefully, mutual cultural understanding and reciprocity between nations will prevail, always. Politics24160@blogcritics.org Wed, 12 Jan 2005 05:41:07 EST