The Weekly Watch
Happy Birthday Karl!
Karl Marx has been proven accurate with his predictions on capitalism...
Marx believed the coming crisis would result from contradictions within the capitalist system itself, and predicted that these contradictions would become more and more acute as the capitalist system evolved. Over time, Marx writes, capital takes control over the handcraft production processes and later manufacture where the workers were in control of the work process, centralizing the workers into workshops and factories. Through the process of competing for markets, some firms win and others lose, capital becomes enlarged and centralized; science and technology are consciously used to improve the productivity of the workplace, thus throwing many out of work while creating new jobs in service to the machines. In the process of competing for markets, unsuccessful capitalists fall into the proletariat and all productive labor, worldwide, come ultimately within the capitalist system
...
In addition to the booms and busts of capitalism that swing wider as capitalism evolves there is a constant churning of employment as machines replace men in one industry after another, throwing thousands out of work, thus swamping the labor market and lowering the cost of labor. In all of this the labourers suffer. Mass production, machine technology, and economies of scale will increasingly be applied to all economic activities; unemployment and misery for many men and women results . As capitalism develops the system must necessarily create enormous differences in wealth and power. The social problems it creates in its wake of boom and bust—of unemployment and under employment, of poverty amidst affluence will continue to mount. The vast majority of people will fall into the lower classes; the wealthy will become richer but ever fewer in number.
http://www.faculty.rsu.edu/users/f/felwell/www/Theorists/Essays/Marx5.htm
[edit to add] Oops....the cartoon is faux Marx quote
https://www.theatlantic.com/business/archive/2009/01/faux-marx/4565/
no one in 1870 imagined the working class having access to bank credit. Poor people might get some time from the landlord, or a few weeks at the butcher, or they might run arrears and pay on account, but they did not buy substantial goods on credit. The first mass extension of credit to people who did not own land was the boom in installment buying that came in the 1920s.
Gerald Horne and Paul Jay discuss Marx, racism, and bias built into the social structure in this excellent conversation (21 min or text)
http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21720:200th-Anniversary-of-the-Birth-of-...
China will celebrate. Did you hear about it yesterday?
http://www.globaltimes.cn/content/1100666.shtml
China bought a statue for the celebration in Germany
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2uPfw2S_LZc (5.5 min)
Richard Wolff with a good introduction
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=srx5kXts1Jg (17 min)
More from Richard Wolff with Abby Martin discussing Marx and socialism
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6P97r9Ci5Kg (35 min)
The lessons of Karl Marx show that our tasks are to heighten class conflict by exposing the reality of abhorrent inequality and create new systems to replace failing capitalism.
https://www.truthdig.com/articles/honoring-karl-marx-as-as-activist-on-h...
We shouldn't forget the leading socialists from the US...Eugene Debs
https://www.truthdig.com/articles/an-ode-to-eugene-victor-debs-and-the-e...
Two min trailer of the new documentary about Debs
https://www.imdb.com/videoplayer/vi3893278745?ref_=ttvi_vi_imdb_1
The war drum beats...
I had a conversation with one of my music buddies. I was making the case against all our insane wars...my usual rant. Their line was “I don't care what's going on over there. I just want environmental protection, women's rights, and decent health care.” My response ….but all our wars eat the resources we could use to address our problems...didn't seem to registrer. This excellent musician, a retired programer, isn't dumb. So what is it ? Are we just ill informed? This person claimed to read AP, Reuters, and occationally The Guardian. Why don't we understand that the US is the primary terrorist in the world? How is it we miss the concept that as Noam said Iran looks like a civil rights paradise compared to Saudi Arabia? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jdxxVxtHK2M (7 min)
While top American officials and media outlets praise Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman as a "revolutionary," 12 people are beheaded per month. Professor Asad AbuKhalil says the Saudi monarchy "has become far more repressive than it has ever been."
http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21707:US-Gov.-and-Media-Whitewash-%27Ref... (6 min or text)
CIA Director turned Secretary of State Mike Pompeo visited Saudi Arabia and Israel as Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman abandons the Palestinians. Professor Asad AbuKhalil says this alliance has never been closer, noting Israel's political allies have frequently been anti-Semites (9 min or text)
http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21714:Saudi-Crown-Prince-Tells-Palestini...
Meanwhile our Israeli allies continue shooting children, journalists, and other protesters. How dare the Palestinians protest the conditions in their open air prison! For the sixth consecutive week Palestinians in Gaza headed to the Israeli border to demonstrate the "Great March of Return." Israeli soldiers continued their attacks on the protesters, wounding over 160. Special correspondent Noor Harazeen reports from Gaza (3.5 min or text)
http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21724:Sixth-Consecutive-Week-of-Friday-G...
Netanyahu: Don’t Look Here, Where We’re Shooting Children—Look at Iran
https://www.truthdig.com/articles/netanyahu-dont-look-here-where-were-sh...
I wasn't the only one who heard echos of the Iraq invasion this week.
Journalist Max Blumenthal says this is part of Israel's strategy to escalate aggression against Tehran. (13 min or text) http://therealnews.com/t2/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=31&I...
Benjamin Netanyahu’s stage performance about Iran seeking a nuclear weapon not only was based on old material, but evidence shows it was fabricated too, says Gareth Porter.
https://consortiumnews.com/2018/05/03/the-latest-act-in-the-israels-iran...
Lee Camp based an article on one of his monologues.
https://www.truthdig.com/articles/i-know-which-country-the-u-s-will-inva...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3kkumC4k3PI (12 min)
Former US IAEA Nuclear Weapons Inspector Robert Kelley explains why Netanyahu's claims are baseless, self-serving, and childish. (20 min or text)
http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21700:Fmr-IAEA-Inspector%3A-Netanyahu%27...
Excellent take by Ralph Nader
https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/05/03/wake-trump-distraction-and...
Medea Benjamin explains the background of our relationship to Iran
https://www.truthdig.com/articles/inside-irans-relations-with-the-u-s-an...
one more piece...
https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/04/30/bizarre-powerpoint-event-ne...
Why does anyone give the nitwit yahoo any credibility at all?
Following his first term as Israel's prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu testified to Congress on Sept. 12, 2002 as a private citizen, and advised Congress that a U.S. invasion of Iraq would be "a good choice." https://www.c-span.org/video/?c4529120/netanyahus-expert-testimony-iraq-...
“There is no question whatsoever that Saddam is seeking and is working and is advancing towards the development of nuclear weapons – no question whatsoever,” Netanyahu, then a private citizen, told the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform on September 12, 2002. “And there is no question that once he acquires it, history shifts immediately.”
Could it be because Israel pulls our strings not the other way around?
We're fighting tooth and nail against the Latin American countries too. No socialists allowed in our hemisphere! http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21713:US-Interventions-in-Latin-America-... (14 min or text)
Teachers Unite!
There are attempts to quell the teacher uprisings. Rightwing politicians and their operatives have already are crafting ways to strike back against teachers.
http://educationopportunitynetwork.org/the-right-lashes-out-at-uprising-...
Part of the reason there is inadequate funding for schools is the bipartisan rush to corporatize public schools - https://www.brookings.edu/blog/brown-center-chalkboard/2018/05/01/charte...
Teachers in Arizona know a concession on pay isn't the same thing as a genuine commitment to public education. State leaders like Ducey are so dead set on privatizing education or spending school funds elsewhere that they are ready to change any rules — even longstanding constitutional and democratic norms — to further that agenda.
http://www.latimes.com/opinion/op-ed/la-oe-black-education-politics-2018...
Even CNN seems to get it
https://amp.cnn.com/cnn/2018/04/27/opinions/teacher-strikes-more-than-pa...
The oligarchs have subtle techniques for controlling the masses. One is through education.
The Koch empire is particularly effective with its influence....
Bill Black on their techniques in universities and ultimately the court
http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21698:Koch-Brothers%27-Money-went-to-Geo...
They also provide free teaching materials (which distorts history and misleads children and teachers) https://www.theroot.com/millions-of-students-are-quietly-being-taught-th...
Jim Hightower describes the Koch hold on America
https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/05/02/patience-and-secrecy-kochs...
This site will keep you up to date on the efforts of the Koch empire to dominate the US.
https://www.exposedbycmd.org/Koch
Climate and the Kochs (32 min or text)
http://therealnews.com/t2/story:19992:Trump%2C-The-Koch-Brothers-and-The...
Of general interest....
I get Atlanta news over the air here in the mountain. I've been seeing this political ad when I catch the weather and local news. It speaks volumes to the violent culture we have become.
https://www.commondreams.org/further/2018/05/02/get-over-it-dumb-liberal...
Jimmy Dore and Glenn Greenwald in a nice series of interviews
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9QZAU4bJZyo (19 min)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Psjdk5jJ83w (28 min)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GLNoowY4FKg (20 min)
Dennis Kucinich is running for Governor in Ohio and the primary is this Tuesday
http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21716:Ohio-Governor%27s-Race%3A-Kucinich...
Marx suggested society had to meet the basic needs of people first before the society could reach for higher goals. This is similar to Maslow's hierarchy of needs for individuals.
He recognized our need to reach for higher ideals...
...and the need for empathy
the dehumanizing effects of technology...
He saw the ultimate concentration of ever more wealth and power in the hands of fewer and fewer people...
...and the need for workers to unite against these forces of wealth and power
...and I'll look forward to the comments, stories, and ideas of this excellent community
Comments
Socialism seems far far away in the US
Sadly our condition seems more closely aligned with Orwell's 1984.
Perhaps because of our primary business model?
Bernie made a call this week for a guaranteed job program. Lee Camp tells how it made MSM head explode...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a-4bUyv_CZ0 (14 min)
“Until justice rolls down like water and righteousness like a mighty stream.”
This is great
I think I'm developing a crush on Karl Marx. Thomas Edsall https://www.nytimes.com/2018/05/03/opinion/trump-industrial-revolutions.... The price paid by economic and technological dislocation is higher than we think, and that automation is the equivalent of a recession on the working class. Thanks again this stuff is great.
poor Karl suffered much of his life
...from a painful skin infection
http://hidradenitissuppurativaawareness.org/hs/karl-marx-suffered-from-a...
I suspect it added to his sense of empathy for others. Thanks for dropping by. I hope you enjoy some of the links.
“Until justice rolls down like water and righteousness like a mighty stream.”
Wow, lookout, this is a triple whammy of such great
thoughts by greater minds, it makes me think I need to read it all. Thank you. That Marx guy was 'something, hemm? First time I feel incited to actually try to read him...
I wonder what Marx would have said about the role of the internet technology. May be something similar to what he said about machines?
And it works perfectly well, because the thinkers were thinking about the internet's influence on democracy and socialism in the exact opposite way. The fell for the dream and didn't see the 'ads'.
Ack, those philosophers, they can't keep it simple, stupid. And I am simple, stupid.
Going to do some manual labor and then will spend the rest of the day reading. Thank you so much. Great tribute !
https://www.euronews.com/
I've only recently read Marx
....and there's much to understand. Here in the US he has been dismissed as a hairy idealist. Lately I've been thinking the reason we fight so hard against socialism is because the elite fear it is a more effective means of government and economy...and they don't want us to know nor understand the benefits. Hence the 70 year Cuban blockade and so on.
I've never been to his hometown of Trier, but I understand they had a celebration yesterday where the EU chairman ironically spoke in Marx honor
https://www.yahoo.com/news/eu-chief-defends-marx-controversial-speech-ma...
The founding father of communism and the conservative former leader of a tax haven could barely be further apart politically....Mr Juncker described Marx as a “philosopher who thought into the future had creative aspirations” and addressed criticism of his legacy.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/europe/marxs-german-hometown-celebr...
Hope you are doing well. Wishing you the best across the pond!
“Until justice rolls down like water and righteousness like a mighty stream.”
idealist?
i'd say he's been dismissed as a demonic lunatic.
The earth is a multibillion-year-old sphere.
The Nazis killed millions of Jews.
On 9/11/01 a Boeing 757 (AA77) flew into the Pentagon.
AGCC is happening.
If you cannot accept these facts, I cannot fake an interest in any of your opinions.
That too
Dismissed being the operative verb. Have not seen you in awhile. Hope you're doing well!
“Until justice rolls down like water and righteousness like a mighty stream.”
that's funny ...
(update - added some words I dropped accidentally before and which were essential for comprehending what I wanted to say)
some people might have thought Mr. Juncker is a joker ... What I do understand is the criticism about the size of the Marx statue and the fact that Chinese made them. Reminds me that I had similar thoughts about the MLK statue in Washington DC. Too large and foreign made as well. For both statues something doesn't feel quite right...why there were no local artist for both the statues in both countries is a little incomprehensible to me.
I remember the demonstrations of the lefties in Berlin in the sixties against the Vietnam war.
Some folks read Marx, Engels, Mao Tse Tung and Daniel Ellsberg in those times. I was too busy a 'worker, mother and student' and therefore, though I had the books, I never got into them aside from Daniel Ellsberg's book and my whole life I thought I really should read Marx, Engels and Mao to 'understand' the whole ideological stuff and to be more educated ...
Simple as I was and am, I thought I had understood the consequences of Marxism well enough, when driving through East Germany in the sixties and having been asked by the Volkspolizei of the GDR to remove all Western news papers from the car, especially "Der Spiegel" and being fearful to be arrested for some hours. So much for freedom of speech and thought in the super socialist state of former East Germany.
Well if all goes well, i might have time when I am 72 years old, for the next two years I still have 'other books to read', Sorry Karl, somehow you feel today a little 'old and bygone' to me and I have no idea how relevant your thoughts still are.
This seems to be a non-issue to me and blown out of context. Late at night here and I am already tired. Have to read the links tomorrow. Hard to keep up with the good stuff. Thanks again.
https://www.euronews.com/
Sounds like you a due a well deserved rest
As I wrote down thread somewhere...it is always better to think for yourself than to buy into any dogma. I honestly find Debs a more interesting person and activist, but Marx obviously had impact too.
Sleep well friend.
“Until justice rolls down like water and righteousness like a mighty stream.”
Had a rough day yesterday.
Got out and about but for some reason the world decided to be particularly hostile. Crowds, noise, and my daughter's recital on Cello and voice... which required me to sit through a half hour of loud African drums and teenagers with zero rhythm in an enclosed auditorium.
Got through it, but Jesus It took a lot of effort. At least got my kids some free comics, smoked some decent weed, and learned that even with an open mind, sometimes there's some music I just really don't care for.
[video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zBwKm8u8Rc4]
I do not pretend I know what I do not know.
I have a word of advice about recitals...
earplugs! https://www.earplugsguide.com/best-earplugs-for-concerts-musicians/
Sorry it was an ordeal, but I'm glad you got out for your kids. One of my neighbors is a cellist... Here's Nancy with her husband Norman
[video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2W_ZMsznLO0]
I often sit beside her in sessions and love the feel of cello. I asked her about playing cello once, she advised, "Never put one between your legs!".
All the best to you and your kids. Glad to hear about them playing music. It can be a joy for a lifetime.
“Until justice rolls down like water and righteousness like a mighty stream.”
Yeah, I try to make it to her shows
and normally they're no problem. This time though... well, I was not prepared for the incredible shift in tone from all previous shows.
But yes, I'm trying to figure out how to get an instrument for my son, because he wants to learn the guitar, but I don't want to buy him a crappy one and turn him off of it for life.
I do not pretend I know what I do not know.
I often find nice inexpensive guitars at Trade Day
(our local 3rd world market). I'm sorry we are so far apart, but I could perhaps mail you one. What are you looking for? A full sized instrument?
Another idea is using an organization like:
https://hungryformusic.org/
They provide instruments to kids....and accept donations from any of you looking to get rid of a spare instrument. Someone here on the list might have a spare for your son?
“Until justice rolls down like water and righteousness like a mighty stream.”
Yeah, full size. He's 13
and as tall as I am.
Will absolutely check out that site. Thank you!
I do not pretend I know what I do not know.
one more question
Electric or acoustic? Electric is easier (and louder).
“Until justice rolls down like water and righteousness like a mighty stream.”
He wants an electric...
And if the jerk behind us keeps banging on his drums...
But either is fine as far as he's concerned. (I've explained that pedals will not be included and he's on his own for that...)
I do not pretend I know what I do not know.
I may can help
Let me ask around and I'll pm you if a find a nice one that could be donated. I've got a buddy with an excess and he had said he wanted to thin down. Electric guitars are safer to ship...less likely to be crushed. Of course the neck can still be broken. Later...
“Until justice rolls down like water and righteousness like a mighty stream.”
Thank you!
It's much appreciated.
I do not pretend I know what I do not know.
I have a word of advice about recitals, too!
Smoke the weed first......
"US govt/military = bad. Russian govt/military = bad. Any politician wanting power = bad. Anyone wielding power = bad." --Shahryar
"All power corrupts absolutely!" -- thanatokephaloides
Good Sunday morning, Lookout~~
Life has been challenging and busy. Thanks for putting the WW together - I read without fail every Sunday!
I came across this interview with John Pilger on JPR and thought others might be interested.
https://jackpineradicals.com/boards/topic/great-pilger-interview/
Heading back up to read and listen. Hope all is well with you and yours.
Have a beautiful day, folks!
"The “jumpers” reminded us that one day we will all face only one choice and that is how we will die, not how we will live." Chris Hedges on 9/11
Pilger is one of my faves!
Thanks for the link! Hope you finally got some rain. We were supposed to get a shower yesterday, but it never materialized. We did get 4 inches a week ago, but with temps hovering near 80 it is drying out. I can't brag enough on mulch gardening to maintain soil moisture.
The lead piece with Gerald Horne is insightful. Always glad to "see" you!
“Until justice rolls down like water and righteousness like a mighty stream.”
We are drier than a
popcorn fart, around here. No rain for weeks, no rain on the horizon. We need some relief. Fire danger is high.
Enjoy your day! Cheers!
"The “jumpers” reminded us that one day we will all face only one choice and that is how we will die, not how we will live." Chris Hedges on 9/11
"But we cain't haz soshlizum because we t'aint homo-genius!!1"
Yes, I've heard this excuse from detractors. Hell, a Repig literally said we can't have Single Payer because "Inner City People". And of course, Billary blamed Socialists for her loss just this past week in addition to her typical toxic IDPOL schtick.
Modern education is little more than toeing the line for the capitalist pigs.
Guerrilla Liberalism won't liberate the US or the world from the iron fist of capital.
what amazes me...
...is the elites misunderstanding that things are better when they have more...but in reality by insuring everyone the opportunity to a decent life, their life would be far superior because they would live in a more productive, peaceful, and sustainable environment.
Greed and individualism are sicknesses (sometimes called affluenza). Generosity and community are the cures.
“Until justice rolls down like water and righteousness like a mighty stream.”
Near your disposal.
The american empire, backed by the petro/war dollar has seen it's zenith. The greater powers of this planet have decided to create their own trading systems, without influence from western spheres. It is no shock to see countries standing up to empirical forces. People want to live in peace and moderate prosperity. So FUKUS is in decline. The more rational, less greedy leaders are finessing out of the deal during this winter of discontent. NATO is stuck with the paymasters, until the dollar collapse. Then it will be sold to the highest bidder. Diplomacy is dead when nuclear demise is on the table. People will protest enmass, only the sensible will try to mitigate the damage to our planet and culture. We see the devastation coming. It is our duty to imagine a better future. Then act upon that vision.
yes imagine a better future
Paul Torrence created a future problem solving bowl for children. http://www.fpspi.org/
His thought was we must envision a positive future in order to achieve one. We were fortunate in our Athens GA years to associate and work with Dr. Torrence.
https://stateofcreativity.com/dr-e-paul-torrance/
Hope you are doing well.
“Until justice rolls down like water and righteousness like a mighty stream.”
Can you also imagine a better future?
It takes courage to be creative.
I like to think....
I'm living a better present by working with nature as a partner thereby creating a better future. Doing is the key. As the saying goes actions speak louder....
“Until justice rolls down like water and righteousness like a mighty stream.”
Well said lookout
You like to think. It's better that way. Willful ignorance digests negativity. Better to be aware.
edited
She said one reason she lost was because she is a capitalist
I linked to her in one of the alligator's essays. I thought the site could use a good laugh because of how she qualified her statement.
Which AIPAC/MIC/pharma/bank bought politician are you going to vote for? Don’t be surprised when nothing changes.
"inner-city people"
I'd print a plain English Translation of what your Repig meant when he said "Inner City People", but I fear drawing the wrath of the Conqueroo for staining his blogsite with such garbage.
We do try to keep it classy around here, y'know!
Of course she did! Anything but blame the real cause!
I like the idea, though. Socialists having enough power to keep Billary out of the White House.
"US govt/military = bad. Russian govt/military = bad. Any politician wanting power = bad. Anyone wielding power = bad." --Shahryar
"All power corrupts absolutely!" -- thanatokephaloides
in Alabama
it is very clear who "inner city people" refers to. The smell of racism is recognizable once you know the odor.
good to see you.
“Until justice rolls down like water and righteousness like a mighty stream.”
odor is just door
with a different configuration of symbol placement.
edited
good one!
Word jumbles are not my talent, but cryptoquotes are a different story.
“Until justice rolls down like water and righteousness like a mighty stream.”
what's a crypto quote?
I can only imagine stories told from the unsealed crypts while the dead tried to work out their stories. Late on dark and stormy nights. Used to be fun!
it is a coded message
...usually a quote where one letter is substituted for another
http://cryptograms.org/play.php
“Until justice rolls down like water and righteousness like a mighty stream.”
Alabama
I know.
I just thought JtC would appreciate me not cutting that particular fart here.
Twenty-Third Psalm Majordomo
Reserve me a table for three
Down in the Valley of the Shadows
Just you, Alabama, and me!
Garcia/Hunter
[video:https://youtu.be/AcMYPkga_CU]
You too!
"US govt/military = bad. Russian govt/military = bad. Any politician wanting power = bad. Anyone wielding power = bad." --Shahryar
"All power corrupts absolutely!" -- thanatokephaloides
clintons treason continues on
https://qz.com/1269172/the-epic-mistake-about-manufacturing-thats-cost-a...
I would go as far as saying it wasn't "foreign competition" but a distinct
giving to China of all our manufacturing.
It was Clinton who sold the country out.
I never knew that the term "Never Again" only pertained to
those born Jewish
"Antisemite used to be someone who didn't like Jews
now it's someone who Jews don't like"
Heard from Margaret Kimberley
I think he was just one of many...
Clinton is one in a long line. Nixon opened trade relations. China was to be ours to exploit until Mao thwarted those hopes. Those damn commies.
This irrational fear we have of EVIL communism manifested in China and Russia (neither of which are communists) has been with us for many years. How about McCarthy and the red scare? Seems after WWII they ginned up the rhetoric in order to create an enemy. When Stalin died there was a chance to create an friendship with Russia (USSR), but Dulles (CIA) wouldn't let it happen. Seems like we're there again with Russiagate.
As to China (did you catch the cartoon on the us china synthesis?), Korea seems to be our proxy war. Some suggest that is why there will not be a lasting peace there. Maybe it will though. The U.S. debt to China is $1.17 trillion as of January 2018.
No doubt Clinton added to the problem. I remember Perot talking about that sucking sound. Thanks for those links. I think the problem is more systemic and embedded in our national psyche.
“Until justice rolls down like water and righteousness like a mighty stream.”
Yep the toons were all perfect, if not better
And the enemy lives on and on and on, gosh propaganda
works to damn well in this fuckin country along with
the corruption allowing the koch's to buy it.
I never knew that the term "Never Again" only pertained to
those born Jewish
"Antisemite used to be someone who didn't like Jews
now it's someone who Jews don't like"
Heard from Margaret Kimberley
All I remember from my teenage and student years
in Germany was that none of my family members and friends back then would be impressed or influenced by the major propaganda radio broadcasts of the Communists or the American Voice of America.
They just said 'phew', 'really' and went on to believe what they wanted to. Propaganda is really bad for your digestive system. You get stomach aches, the urge throw up or get diarrhea and on top of that headaches.
Later on the Berlin Wall made it more obvious as well. When folks happily believed in JFK's words "I am a Berliner" the happiness went down the sewer, when thirty plus years later, German were expected to be "very thankful" to the Americans and always were supposed to support the American empire no matter where they established it militarily.
John Pilger in the video above that Raggedy Ann posted in a comment, he said: "Nobody would need the support of democrats and Democrats more than Julian Assange, who suffered a great deal, because "Wikileaks" were so good and did so well. Adding that to Wikileaks it was not known where "the leaks" came from, but apparently it might have come from Democrats that now accuse Wikileaks and Assange of ... I don't know what ... treason?
So, either way, too much of propaganda is going to backfire, always.
Gosh, I have to go to read more. Can't keep up. What is happening?
https://www.euronews.com/
support no matter what
should never ever happen, their should be limits
on everything! So yes hopefully it all backfires, the question
is how long will that take?
I never knew that the term "Never Again" only pertained to
those born Jewish
"Antisemite used to be someone who didn't like Jews
now it's someone who Jews don't like"
Heard from Margaret Kimberley
Yes, in so many ways.
In addition to turning the Democratic Party into a second Neoliberal party, it was Clinton who pioneered "humanitarian" bombing with the NATO intervention in Yugoslavia.
[video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ny8i5zjQfv4 width:400 height:240]
I used to think that George W. Bush was the worst president of my lifetime but I'm starting to think that Bill Clinton deserves that title.
We wanted decent healthcare, a living wage and free college.
The Democrats gave us Biden and war instead.
amerika the "higher moral authority"
cause for god being needed
to always bless amerika, we're so
fucked up with our blood thirsty
leaders lusting for constant war.
I never knew that the term "Never Again" only pertained to
those born Jewish
"Antisemite used to be someone who didn't like Jews
now it's someone who Jews don't like"
Heard from Margaret Kimberley
may be you are right, because
GWBush was just naively dumb, whereas Clinton was intelligently dumbfucking the democrats ?
These comments here are really a satisfying joy to read.
https://www.euronews.com/
Well, doggonit,
I hate to be the turd in the birthday party punch bowl, but I don't think Karl Marx was a prophet. And I don't think George Orwell was one either. The irony is that both of Orwell's most famous novels, Animal Farm and 1984, were about the Soviet Union under Stalin, a supposedly Marxist country.
Here's John Maynard Keynes, from a letter to G.B. Shaw:
We wanted decent healthcare, a living wage and free college.
The Democrats gave us Biden and war instead.
I think of you as a delight
....not a turd in the punch
My point in the essay is he proved accurate in his predictions about capitalism. I'm really not one for prophets. I'm for thinking for yourself. However, we need the ideas of wise people in order to have the data for good analysis. Both Marx and Orwell provided food for thought...and shown some light on our system.
There is no doubt capitalism has failed. We must therefore look at other models.
“Until justice rolls down like water and righteousness like a mighty stream.”
Neoliberalism has failed,
or succeeded depending on which side you're on. Capitalism can only been eradicated by outlawing private property. It will breakout spontaneously wherever private property is allowed. Capitalism can, however, be regulated, or re-regulated in the current situation.
We wanted decent healthcare, a living wage and free college.
The Democrats gave us Biden and war instead.
I'm not sure...
Although Marx would agree.
Most people would suggest the following ideas are communist (although personal property would still exist), but if I we're world Tsar...
Stop our foreign interventions and reduce terrorism by not being terrorists (saving much national wealth in the process), Break up big banks, tax the oligarchs proportionally to eventually diminish inequality, create incentives for cooperative ownership, massive public works and jobs programs, shift to a decentralized green energy system, local food production, national green transportation system, and so on.
Imagine no possessions
I wonder if you can
no need for greed or hunger
a brotherhood of man
All the best!
“Until justice rolls down like water and righteousness like a mighty stream.”
None of your suggestions are communist.
They are all things we can, and should, do. They have nothing to do with Marx, communism, or proletarian revolution.
If you go carrying pictures of Chairman Mao ...
We wanted decent healthcare, a living wage and free college.
The Democrats gave us Biden and war instead.
lol, this thread makes me grin and smile so much ...
but tell me what happens if you carry Chairman Mao signs ... ? I always wondered back in the days of the sixties and just was too lazy to find out...
https://www.euronews.com/
that reminds me of what happens if a greedy, meany
husband doesn't allow his wife to have her own little private money. Good mamis and grannies always knew they might need a few private thingies under their mattress (or in case of my own mom on top and behind the curtain rail), so even if private belongings don't pop out into open sight, it's always there and much desired.
A lesson may be learned when the 'evil imperialists of the left and right' force you to flee from your home turf, because to 'cross some borders' to save your life from incoming troops' fire, you need some little things and 'bribe someone'.
And they are 'bribable' all, from the left and the right. Just my (RIP) German mama's and aunties' advice. Even my (RIP) African mama-in-law, a woman who gave birth to twelve kids, (seven survived into adulthood and all males made more or less respectable lives for themselves - surely bribed to do some things that were not so honorable), had her little private properties sewed into the seams of her African dresses. I still have her list of private belonging made by her daughter after her death. Eye-opening !
https://www.euronews.com/
in my youth...
I lived on a commune. I learned that there needs to be a personal benefit or profit motive in social organizations. If you've read Animal Farm, you may remember the horse who did the majority of the work? I don't think personal ownership is a bad thing at all. It is the lack of community service and commitment I find sad.
“Until justice rolls down like water and righteousness like a mighty stream.”
Marx was definitely ahead of his time
either that or he was damn smart. I keep reading that socialism is so bad it would ruin our country and cause great civil strife if it was implemented here.
S.M.D.H!!
Which AIPAC/MIC/pharma/bank bought politician are you going to vote for? Don’t be surprised when nothing changes.
how do people fail to see...
the connection between endless war and our lack of public services and goodwill?
Scare people about the evils of socialism....the devil incarnate. Build your fallout shelter deep in the ground....the Russians are coming!
Bernie help pull some of the stigma from the word socialism....but communism is still bad = dictatorship. Good thing we live a good corporate oligarchy where all the elite treated with privilege...and even commoners can aspire to (but never achieve) becoming elite.
Always glad for your insights SD!
“Until justice rolls down like water and righteousness like a mighty stream.”
Marx wasn't ahead of his time.
He was writing about his time, just like Charles Dickens was. Marx's objections to early industrial capitalism were valid but I don't think they're all that relevant today and I certainly don't believe that there are inevitable laws of history.
We wanted decent healthcare, a living wage and free college.
The Democrats gave us Biden and war instead.
Add Victor Hugo to the club
particularly Les Miserables, in which (in one of the essay chapters that constantly interrupt the story) he commented on Marx(!), saying in essence that he had the correct diagnosis but the wrong prescription. (Not that Hugo had any prescription himself!)
There is no justice. There can be no peace.
Hey Lookout
So much good stuff, where to start. Thanks for delivering it to our door.
I am in the process of making travel arrangements to visit my grandson in Stockholm. We are planning the trip for August so we can beat the snow. We find the idea of flying, perhaps travel, irksome and expensive, but we are anxious to see and share in the life he is building for himself in his new home. If we survive this trip, perhaps we'll do it again and visit Italy next fall. I know travel is supposed to be fun. I hope it is so.
Thanks again for all of your hard work and sharing so much of yourself with us.
"Religion is what keeps the poor from murdering the rich."--Napoleon
Flying overseas isn't fun
...but being there is. I've always want to go to Scandinavia. Made it as far as Orkney...almost nearly but not quite hardly to Norway.
We've got a trip to Switzerland in September. My first visit there. I too dread the flight, but look forward to learning about a different country and exploring the Alps.
Always glad to see you. Thanks for dropping by.
“Until justice rolls down like water and righteousness like a mighty stream.”
recommend a stop-over in Iceland
It costs little on a EU flight (USED TO), well worth it. Those people are free!
Iceland
Iceland really is the nice land! Working economy (complete with serious prison terms for oligarchs who fuck it up for the rest of the People); wonderful, happy people; more hot springs than you could hope to shake your stick in; all-geothermal electric energy.....
Wish they'd let me live there, truth be told! I even know how to pronounce "ð"!
"US govt/military = bad. Russian govt/military = bad. Any politician wanting power = bad. Anyone wielding power = bad." --Shahryar
"All power corrupts absolutely!" -- thanatokephaloides
@lookout @dkmich and other C99p travelers
in case I am still in my current German garden and feel not too many of my basic human freedoms are taken away from me, let me know per pms when you travel. May be we can have an extra-territorial meet-up and organize some little road-trips together.
I have flown across the oceans too many times and the worst is to go from Europe to Hawaii.
And the worst time zone difference between the two it is as well. It can break your spirit and health. And I have to say having seen some countries you might not have, I always fear in my mind to think about those realizations you surely will have, exhaling the words: "oh, that is not what I thought it would be". One thing is sure, it is never what you thought it would be, neither the bad nor the good. So, be prepared !
Please report back here, when you come back and tell us about all the wrong ideas you might have had about 'the European countries' over there. All I know is that it is ALWAYS eye-opening and challenging your own perceptions to see "Life in real life terms, close-up and personal and face to face".
Have all a good trip! Just in case I forget to wish it to you on time.
PS: btw in the eighties I always took Iceland Air to fly from the East Coast to Luxembourg with stop-over in Reykjavik. It was dirt cheap and I loved the little airport there back then and the cold fresh air when de-boarding in the middle of the night in Reykjavik. Today it's more "capitalist" an airport. And not so cheap anymore. But back in the days ... heh .. heavenly cheap, like around 280 dollars round trip, I think it was. Gone are the days...
https://www.euronews.com/
good idea...
a European c99 meet up!
“Until justice rolls down like water and righteousness like a mighty stream.”