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General => Archive => Political and Religious => Topic started by: ariich on May 01, 2009, 03:31:08 AM

Title: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: ariich on May 01, 2009, 03:31:08 AM
I don't actually know how many versions we had at the last place, but I've arbitrarily decided that this is version two :P

Knock yourselves out.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: millahh on May 01, 2009, 07:31:51 AM
I thinmk this actually is version 2.

So who was expecting a Supreme Court retirement this quickly, and who would have thought Souter?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 01, 2009, 07:39:29 AM
Me and not me.  I was expecting Ginsberg.  This was actually one of the only reasons I preferred Obama to McCain.  Since I've now come to realize they're one in the same, I'm curious how this is all going to turn out. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 01, 2009, 09:41:47 AM
I think this is v.3
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 01, 2009, 10:23:39 AM
Reprinted from 11/02

Quote
WASHINGTON, DC—By an 8-1 vote Monday, the members of the U.S. Supreme Court collectively resolved to lose their virginity by Dec. 31, 2002.

"Whereas neither this judicial body, nor the bodies of any of its nine members, has ever been touched in an intimate manner, it is wholly appropriate for us to become men and women via acts of sexual congress, and this on a deadline described by the completion of the year 2002," wrote Justice Anthony Kennedy, voicing the majority opinion. "The only caveat is: There are no caveats."

The pact was first proposed on Oct. 23, when Kennedy and Justice Antonin Scalia were bullied by a coalition of prominent congressional jocks led by Sen. Jim Bunning (R-KY).

"The legislators in question were stepping on our robes and coughing the word 'fag' and carrying out a variety of other acts that, while not unconstitutional, would unequivocally be construed as mean," Kennedy said. "The final straw came when Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME) told me she thought I was cute and said to meet her at the Jefferson Memorial dressed as a cowboy so we could make out."

After complying with Collins' request, Kennedy was ambushed and pelted with eggs by several assailants, including Collins herself, who walked off holding hands with Rep. Tom Osborne (R-NE).

"She laughed and said, 'So long, virgin! Have a nice night with Mr. Right Hand,'" Kennedy said. "After that, I decided I'd had enough. It was time to take action."

The court decided to move forward with the pact later that evening when, during a late-night bonding session, Chief Justice William Rehnquist admitted to being a virgin—shattering longtime perceptions that he is the worldliest and most experienced member of the court.

"Hearing that Big Willie had never buried the gavel was a key turning point," Justice David Souter said. "It opened up our eyes and made us see how we were not alone, after all. After a period of deliberation, we arrived at a majority opinion that if we all worked together, we could overcome our nervousness and actually get laid."

"Hey, everybody!" Souter added. "We're all gonna get laid!"

The lone dissenting vote, cast by Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, came as a surprise to many, given her long track record of defending personal liberties. Washington Post judicial reporter James Klingler theorized that the vote may represent an attempt on Ginsburg's part to prevent Scalia from coupling with another woman.

"I'm not at liberty to name names, but a certain Supreme Court justice recently informed me that Ginsburg confided in her that she 'totally loves' Scalia," Klingler said. "This, I believe, is the reason she voted against the pact. But while, on its surface, this pact would seem to drive Ginsburg and Scalia further apart, it may well be the very thing that brings them together. Perhaps during a particularly long and difficult get-laid strategy session, Justice Ginsburg will remove her glasses and rub her tired eyes, prompting Justice Scalia to finally see the beautiful woman beneath that hard liberal exterior."

The first major test case for the pact will take place this weekend at a Judicial Branch/Daughters of the American Revolution mixer, which Justice John Paul Stevens said will be attended by some "really slutty girls" he knows from law school.

"Under penalty of perjury, I swear to God, there is this one chick who is completely hot for Souter," Stevens said. "She personally attested to this fact during a conversation I recently overheard that I am not at liberty to discuss in any detail. Saturday is his night, man."

Subsequent opportunities are expected to arise at a pool party Supreme Court Marshal Pamela Talkin is slated to throw at the Alexandria Radisson over Thanksgiving break, as well as at the Judicial Branch Big Beach Bonfire on Dec. 14.

Stephen "Pee-Wee" Breyer, the most recently sworn-in justice, reported being nervous about the impending virginity loss. A close confidant, speaking on condition of anonymity, said that a trembling Breyer recently asked him, "Gee, getting it on with a real girl—what do I do?"

Not all of the justices admit to being so nervous, however. Asked to assess his prospects for losing his virginity within the next two months, a confident Scalia lifted his judicial robe and quipped, "Res ipsa loquitur."
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: William Wallace on May 01, 2009, 01:38:54 PM
"Bury the gavel."  :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: hefdaddy42 on May 07, 2009, 04:30:56 AM
*chats*
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 07, 2009, 11:46:34 AM
https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/05/05/fox-news-assailed-for-vid_n_196719.html

Quote
Hey, kids! Do you ever get tired of Fox News' crops? I don't mean the food they might be literally growing, in Glenn Beck's Doom Room, in preparation for Imminent Socialist Panic. I'm talking about the way they manipulate video to make it look like people are just straight up saying the opposite thing they actually said. Well, it's been bothering the media critics at Media Matters For America for some time, and they have, for a long time, been cataloging "examples of Fox News hosts and correspondents cropping comments by progressives and Democratic political figures in a manner that misrepresents them." A new mash-up video offers some side-by-side examples of what they're talking about:

Some constructive criticism? I think the third example -- Obama's "empathy" criteria for Supreme Court justice -- isn't the best example of a Fox cropping. While it's certainly true that Major Garrett's statement, "That aggravates those who feel that justices should follow the Constitution and legislative intent," seems to neatly ignore the fact that Obama's next statement was "I will seek someone who is dedicated to the rule of law, who honors our Constitutional traditions, who respects the integrity of the judicial process, and the appropriate limits of the judicial role," the fact is, just about every news organization honed in on the "empathy" part of the statement. It became the sound bite from that press exchange.

In a more lengthy report, however, Media Matters has other candidates that are fitting examples of these games with videotape, well worth reviewing. Key examples include Sean Hannity's intentional omission of Obama's admonishment of Europeans' "casual...insidious" anti-Americanism to make it look like Obama was apologizing for the United States, and Wendell Goler's splice-happy report that made it look like Obama was in favor of "European-style health care," when he was actually specifically opposing it. Also close to my heart is Fox's misleading insertion of an out-of-context Joe Biden clip into a report, for which the network eventually had to apologize. At the time, I opined:

    It's very sad, and weird, because Fox News would have made their point just fine if they hadn't included the misleading part of this clip. All they've really done is demonstrate that they do not have enough faith in their own editorial premises to avoid bolstering them with falsehoods. But more to the point, whoever is responsible for putting this video together needs to accept a new prevailing reality, that stupid little lies like this will be debunked and exposed very quickly, so they may as well just cut out this nonsense entirely.

Yet they persist!

If there isn't a law against this, there should be.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 07, 2009, 02:25:08 PM
https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/05/05/fox-news-assailed-for-vid_n_196719.html

Quote
But more to the point, whoever is responsible for putting this video together needs to accept a new prevailing reality, that stupid little lies like this will be debunked and exposed very quickly, so they may as well just cut out this nonsense entirely.
They'll be debunked by organizations who aren't Fox News.  The people who actually watch Fox thinking it's news, as opposed to it's comedic value, will never see the debunking; nor would they want to or believe it if they did.  'Merika seems to be made up entirely of two classes: those who think Fox is the only trusted news source and those who know better and they seem to be split about 50/50.  The latter group can see both sides.  The first group will never accept anything outside of Fox's point of view.   
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 07, 2009, 05:28:29 PM
Oh ya I wasn't agreeing with him. That's why I think there should be a law against it, becuase the people who watch fox news won't learn the truth and it basically amounts to propaganda.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 07, 2009, 06:19:20 PM
We don't need more laws for anything. Education cures stupidity.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 07, 2009, 06:32:25 PM
Yes well American's are retarded. The fact that fox news is the most popular news source should tell you that.

Also, wouldn't educating the populace be a law?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 07, 2009, 06:37:05 PM
If they are under 18, yes.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 07, 2009, 06:52:41 PM
We don't need more laws for anything. Education cures stupidity.
The best non-snortable thing I've seen from ColOmbia to date. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on May 07, 2009, 09:33:41 PM
We don't need more laws for anything. Education cures stupidity.

Gotta agree with you there, trying to outlaw clever editing is simply not a good idea.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 07, 2009, 10:55:40 PM
We don't need more laws for anything. Education cures stupidity.

Gotta agree with you there, trying to outlaw clever editing is simply not a good idea.

Outlawing down right manipulation to serve a political end and presenting it as factual and accurate is different then outlawing clever editing.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MetalMike06 on May 08, 2009, 12:18:14 AM
Um, isn't that totally contradictory to the first amendment (a free press)?

Wouldn't the government then have to determine what is "correct" news and what is not?

Not to mention, I don't think this would be strictly subjectable to only FOX.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 08, 2009, 12:48:11 AM
No it wouldn't. But seriously, if the government was doing this it would be called propaganda and we would all be rightfully decrying it. And another great example of where people think free press means the press can print whatever it wants. I have freedom of speech but I can't yell fire in a public place if there is no fire, and I cant' defame someone in an act of libel. I can't incite violence or a riot in the press. I can't give out false advertisements. Whats similiar in all these cases? Lying and hiding it as the truth to a public audience. I would say this fits very closely with the spirit of those other laws.

And no the government wouldn't. Fortunately, when you edit and crop like Fox News is doing to serve your agenda, it's quite obvious - and, as the free-markets should point out, Media Matters is already doing this. I guess I should be clear, I don't want some governmental agency patrolling for this, but when you have a company which repeatadly distorts reality like Fox News does something should be done. Especially in the Supreme Court case. The guy literally objected to Obama with something Obama actually said right after the clip they showed ended. I mean what the fuck.

And yes, any news organization which does this repeatedly should face penalties.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MetalMike06 on May 08, 2009, 01:01:27 AM
Ah, I see. My only concern is how it is enforced.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 08, 2009, 01:03:12 AM
Make it like libel - someone, not the government, has to bring it to court.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 08, 2009, 11:46:16 AM
Video that won't embed. (https://www.tubearoo.com/articles/9298/Rock_Bottom_The_Simpsons.html) 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: William Wallace on May 14, 2009, 04:36:09 AM
Video that won't embed. (https://www.tubearoo.com/articles/9298/Rock_Bottom_The_Simpsons.html) 
:lol

In response to scheavo's post, perhaps we could flush away the entire mainstream media and start new. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 14, 2009, 01:15:51 PM
I'm all for that. Frankly, I think mass media is about the worst thing to happen in this country. Mass media is just an easy way for demagogues to have power. Is there any studies which show the negative effects of 24 hour news channels? Because I can't imagine there's much benefit, it forces the news to become about ratings and not about the news.

Maybe we could have a law against one company having monopolistic broudcasting rights on a station? So for example, on Fox News channel, instead of everything being broud casted by the same company, we require a different company to come in. Say, MSNBC. And have the reverse true on the MSNBC channel. This way people don't get one viewpoint and spout it as the truth. A la the idea behind equal show time for political candidates and such.


Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 14, 2009, 01:46:28 PM
No. The point is to educate people so they start to demand for quality news instead of entertainment. Not asking for FREAKING BIG BROTHER to say what we can and should see.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 14, 2009, 02:26:42 PM
That's a nice idea and all, but you're forgetting the mass media is most peoples education. Plus, it wouldn't stop people from seeing what they want to see, I don't even know how you can say this. You can turn off the TV, and they wouldn't be forcing you to watch anything.

In this case the ends is more important than the means. I'm much more frightened of a "free" public who is effectively brainwashed by mass media who's only concern is for profit and ratings than big brother dictating BALANCED news coverage. Besides which, your plan requires big brother, and some could argue much more severely. Who's to educate the people to try and get a balanced viewpoint? You said it youreslf, we must EDUCATE people, not convince people to educate themselves.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on May 14, 2009, 05:34:00 PM
Lets just get rid of the FCC.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 15, 2009, 12:45:56 AM
I think I'll actually agree to that. V-chips can control what kids are allowed to watch, and if the parent doesn't use them then they're an idiot. Plus, kids are getting far far far far more damaged from access to the internet than they are from TV. Curse words never hurt anybody, it's just purism taken to an extreme and it's not as if kids don't know what is being said.

Still, big brother or not I don't trust the masses to get a balance source of news, and I'd rather have big government and big brother dicating this then face the consequences of a dumb public. Democracy in the hands of idiots is simply terrifying.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on May 15, 2009, 03:52:04 AM
I think I'll actually agree to that. V-chips can control what kids are allowed to watch, and if the parent doesn't use them then they're an idiot. Plus, kids are getting far far far far more damaged from access to the internet than they are from TV. Curse words never hurt anybody, it's just purism taken to an extreme and it's not as if kids don't know what is being said.

Still, big brother or not I don't trust the masses to get a balance source of news, and I'd rather have big government and big brother dicating this then face the consequences of a dumb public. Democracy in the hands of idiots is simply terrifying.

That's an argument against democracies, not an argument in favor of big government. That's why we were never supposed to have a democracy in this country.  Rule of law, the constitution, is supposed to be the final judge. 

The FCC does a lot more than police f-bombs and flashes of flesh, but on that topic it's the parent's responsibility to make sure their kids aren't seeing that stuff if they don't want them too.

I'm talking about everything the FCC does.  I'd have to dig it up but there's been a series of rule changes that have favored the conglomeration of media.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 15, 2009, 08:57:36 AM
I never said I liked democracies, I more or less fear the demos. But I don't see a better alternative; Republanism suffers from the inability to accurately and adaquately define who should rule. No matter how you try and define it, it'll be misused and abused. <insert the famous quotes about democracy being the best we have>.

And I believe I've mentioned it before: I fear the masses more than I fear the government. My argument aren't going to be "in favor" of big government, just against the alternatives. If we talked about less economic issues on this board, you and I would agree far more.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on May 16, 2009, 12:51:02 PM
I never said I liked democracies, I more or less fear the demos. But I don't see a better alternative; Republanism suffers from the inability to accurately and adaquately define who should rule. No matter how you try and define it, it'll be misused and abused. <insert the famous quotes about democracy being the best we have>.

And I believe I've mentioned it before: I fear the masses more than I fear the government. My argument aren't going to be "in favor" of big government, just against the alternatives. If we talked about less economic issues on this board, you and I would agree far more.

As with everything, from this we can say that moderation is best.  Give some rule to the people, and some to the government.  Not that I think the Republicans or the Democrats are right; just find the happy median is all.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 16, 2009, 06:56:59 PM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mVh75ylAUXY&feature=player_embedded
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 18, 2009, 03:22:06 PM
This is really, REALLY funny!!!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uR2UXmTGK4M&feature=player_embedded
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 19, 2009, 09:45:20 PM
What happened to El Barto?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: ReaPsTA on May 20, 2009, 06:29:49 AM
Obama's handling of the economy is a complete failure. I don't know why I'm only just realizing this.

The economy is in shambles right now because Wall Street invested so carelessly and put so much money into non-value creating ventures that the system collapsed under the massive debt it incurred.

So basically, you have a group of financial elites who have proven themselves to be incompetent money managers. You have debt bogging this country down. You have a non-value oriented perspective on making money.

What does Obama do?

He runs up trillions of dollars in debt. He leaves the incompetents who caused this problem in charge of our financial institutions. He's trying to keep the old way of investing money alive, even though it's been proven to not work.

And the stock numbers on Wall Street go up, even though the actual productive ability of the economy is in the shitter.

I don't know if Obama either can't see the consequences of his actions, or if he can but ignores them. It's irrelevant. What matters is that the very nature of the economy is about to radically and fundamentally shift, and Obama's policies are making that coming shift as violent as possible. The American auto companies have become bloated corporate giants, with the UAW rivaling their decadence. If the companies were just allowed to fail, we could remove their toxic business practices from this nation and rebuild a modern and efficient American auto industry more in line with the rest of the world.

But we're not, we're essentially nationalizing the auto-industry like the Soviets did. We can debate the philosophy of this all we want, but the Soviet Union collapsed because it was an untenable system. We absolutely cannot just throw money at the auto industry and produce shitty cars that can never turn a profit for the auto industry, but Obama's acting like that's just fine. Rather than letting the auto companies die gracefully and move on, he's making their eventual collapse cost billions more than it should.

Or take green energy as an example. Obama can talk about the tax breaks and green building bullshit in his stimulus package all he wants, but it won't do anything to meaningfully impact how much green energy this country uses. China's paying electric companies to install solar panels. The CHINESE are more forward thinking on this than we are. They're revolutionizing how they get their electricity, and we're stuck with tax credits for green windows that won't do a fucking thing for energy consumption.

I'm not even an expert on this shit, but it just seems too obvious. You don't solve a problem by continuing the conditions that caused the problem, and that's exactly what Obama's doing. I'm hoping at some point people realize this.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 20, 2009, 10:59:52 AM
Good to see that you've also arrived to that conclusion, RePsTA.

As for the Chinese and their auto-industry... well, the Chinese government doesn't respect patents (which I agree completely) that's why they can advance that fast in their electric revolution. The car industry hasn't advance too much in the Western civilization because of all that BS that big car companies sue your ass off if you develop an idea that they came up with before and don't want to share it, nor even use it on their cars. So that's why we're practically "stuck" in that issue.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 20, 2009, 03:14:13 PM
Sounds like you're strongly in favor of more and stronger regulations. That's truly the only way to fix what's wrong in the long term.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 20, 2009, 03:15:51 PM
Sounds like you're strongly in favor of more and stronger regulations. That's truly the only way to fix what's wrong in the long term.
¡¡¡¡Que NO!!!!
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: ReaPsTA on May 20, 2009, 03:34:13 PM
Sounds like you're strongly in favor of more and stronger regulations. That's truly the only way to fix what's wrong in the long term.

Eh...

More regulation isn't an answer. Regulation just gives power to the government, which has proven to be incompetent, and arguably in collusion with Wall Street. Just giving them more power isn't some kind of magic pill. Also, you have to take into account how regulations can be worked around.

On the other hand, just deregulating doesn't seem to be an answer. Part of the reason we're in this mess is because deregulation allowed investors to take risks they weren't able to fully comprehend the consequences of. But then the problem becomes, what do you regulate?

The one regulation I think really might be necessary is limiting the size of these companies, so they can't get so big that it's impossible for them to fail or else the economy crumbles under them. Like I've said before, it's essential that companies be able to fail or else the free market system utterly does not work. An investment company going under should hurt the economy, don't get me wrong. It should serve as a stark lesson in what not to do in the future. But there's a difference between hurting the economy and destroying it. Right now, we're in a position where letting investors go under would actually destroy the economy. And regulation to prevent that kind of growth might be necessary. I hope not, but I don't see an alternative at the moment.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 20, 2009, 03:59:26 PM


The economy is in shambles right now because Wall Street invested so carelessly and put so much money into non-value creating ventures that the system collapsed under the massive debt it incurred.


You're going to have to explain this then, becuase this was caused by a Deregulation of the economy. It's history, you can trace this and the effects it had. You agree with this, and say deregulation got us into the mess, but then don't feel that reregulating is the answer? Where's the logic in this?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: ReaPsTA on May 20, 2009, 04:11:30 PM


The economy is in shambles right now because Wall Street invested so carelessly and put so much money into non-value creating ventures that the system collapsed under the massive debt it incurred.


You're going to have to explain this then, becuase this was caused by a Deregulation of the economy. It's history, you can trace this and the effects it had. You agree with this, and say deregulation got us into the mess, but then don't feel that reregulating is the answer? Where's the logic in this?

Because the debate over regulation is a distraction from the debate over how to make Wall-Street create value again, something neither Wall Street or the government wants to talk about because it's a distraction from robbing and deceiving people.

I'm sure that in some cases, re-regulation would be the answer. And in some cases, more deregulation would be the answer. But the problems that make Wall-Street what it is go back before deregulation. The movie Wall Street was made in the 80's, this shit isn't new.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 20, 2009, 04:36:14 PM
Don't you need to tackle each issue on it's own? Problems we have now can be traced to deregulation, so fixing those problems is logically reregulating. No one has ever said this will cure everything within the economy, but it sure as hell is a start.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 20, 2009, 08:46:05 PM
Anyone else watching AC360 right now? Look at the brutality of the police on an unarmed and unconcious suspect!!
Video here https://videos.al.com/birmingham-news/2009/05/birmingham_police_beating_vide.html
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: William Wallace on May 21, 2009, 12:00:16 AM
Random thought: I'm so glad Columbine was a gun-free zone. The anti-gun minions sure came through in the clutch.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on May 21, 2009, 01:39:11 PM
Reap, your forgetting a little thing in your analysis of the economy called

































The Federal Reserve!


Hot damn, when will people realize that the excesses of wall street debt were made possible by the vast money creation of the fed?
No fed = no bubble
Also,

No implicit government bailouts plus no GSE's = no "too big to fail" bullshit, although it's even false now.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 21, 2009, 01:55:52 PM
Jobe, no Federal Reserve = no central bank, right?
So with the absence of a central bank, many banks appear and they create their own currency based on the amount of gold or metal they have on their vaults? Is there a good book that explains how the market in a country works with the absence of a central bank?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on May 21, 2009, 02:21:19 PM
Jobe, no Federal Reserve = no central bank, right?
So with the absence of a central bank, many banks appear and they create their own currency based on the amount of gold or metal they have on their vaults? Is there a good book that explains how the market in a country works with the absence of a central bank?

I kinda made a topic on this.  To answer though, yes.  A good book? There's a good website with hundreds of books, yet you know what the address is already.

I might support a law requiring 100% reserves, since for a bank to offer loans drawn from demand deposits is defrauding the depositors.  All checking account type moneys cannot be lent out, though time deposits are just fine. 

Bank's are the only business where not only is fraud legal, but mandated by the government.  Grain silo's get in trouble if they start producing duplicate notes for the same deposit, why do banks enjoy special privileges? 

Is that 100% free market? No, though it's well within the purpose and intent of the constitutional responsibilities of the government.  Take away the government and I won't ask for a 100% reserve law.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on May 21, 2009, 06:13:56 PM
RNC = Rush-Newt-Cheney

Just saw that headline. Thought it was cute. :coolio
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 21, 2009, 06:52:04 PM
Jobe, no Federal Reserve = no central bank, right?
So with the absence of a central bank, many banks appear and they create their own currency based on the amount of gold or metal they have on their vaults? Is there a good book that explains how the market in a country works with the absence of a central bank?

I kinda made a topic on this.  To answer though, yes.  A good book? There's a good website with hundreds of books, yet you know what the address is already.

I might support a law requiring 100% reserves, since for a bank to offer loans drawn from demand deposits is defrauding the depositors.  All checking account type moneys cannot be lent out, though time deposits are just fine. 

Bank's are the only business where not only is fraud legal, but mandated by the government.  Grain silo's get in trouble if they start producing duplicate notes for the same deposit, why do banks enjoy special privileges? 

Is that 100% free market? No, though it's well within the purpose and intent of the constitutional responsibilities of the government.  Take away the government and I won't ask for a 100% reserve law.
Where? Remember this site crashed and everything was lost!

I could look at mises.org... sure.... apparently the topic is more complicated than it seems...

...
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 22, 2009, 02:02:33 PM
So Jobe, I have a few questions:

How do you imagine a transition to the gold standard would work?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on May 22, 2009, 10:47:44 PM
So Jobe, I have a few questions:

How do you imagine a transition to the gold standard would work?

Eliminate legal tender laws and any taxes on the transfer of gold and silver.

That's all you need to do, Gresham's law will take care of the rest.  I don't trust the government not to debase the currency.... I'm beginning to doubt a gold standard where the standard is maintained by the government.  There's nothing special about money that benefits from lack of competition. 

Reducing the federal budget and eliminating the income tax would help also, but aren't necessary.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 23, 2009, 02:41:49 AM
So no transition? How am I going to get money then? My employers won't be able to get it - they're money is going to be just as useless as mine. Sure, there will be a market still for our money, as necessity will force people into it. But have you studied the American Revolution? With a gold standard, especially as you desire it, it will be extremely hard for me to get gold. Why? Because the people who HAVE gold won't have much reason to give it to me. Eventually, this could easily stabilize according to curve you're describing (though I just heard of it), but I don't see it as a perfect guarantee. Additionally, how long would this take? I think the overall consequences would be quite drastic, and need to be considered.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on May 23, 2009, 08:42:06 AM
So no transition? How am I going to get money then? My employers won't be able to get it - they're money is going to be just as useless as mine. Sure, there will be a market still for our money, as necessity will force people into it. But have you studied the American Revolution? With a gold standard, especially as you desire it, it will be extremely hard for me to get gold. Why? Because the people who HAVE gold won't have much reason to give it to me. Eventually, this could easily stabilize according to curve you're describing (though I just heard of it), but I don't see it as a perfect guarantee. Additionally, how long would this take? I think the overall consequences would be quite drastic, and need to be considered.

People would issue, banks or other companies, gold or silver backed currencies.  Several do already.  If anyone did not redeem their certificates for the gold or silver they promised, their value would drop, and dishonest companies would go out of business. 

Why is it so hard for you to get gold?  You can buy it today.  You could under the system I'm describing, eventually request to be paid in gold backed notes.  USD wouldn't depreciate to zero overnight.

What curve, Gresham's law? ???

How long would it take? Years, maybe decades, maybe months.  Depends on how much the government debases the little value left in dollars.  It's not the point though.  It's about restoring people's freedom to choose what they use for money. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 23, 2009, 12:57:24 PM
You're forgetting something rather big: I can buy gold right now because of legal tender laws.

*Edit*

And I still gather that Gresham's Law would provide a smooth transition between the two currencies? I don't care to figure out what variables to use, but over time this would mean a general curve if modeled correctly.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on May 23, 2009, 05:38:04 PM
You're forgetting something rather big: I can buy gold right now because of legal tender laws.

*Edit*

And I still gather that Gresham's Law would provide a smooth transition between the two currencies? I don't care to figure out what variables to use, but over time this would mean a general curve if modeled correctly.

If the value of the USD dropped to zero overnight, you might have a point.  The removal of legal tender laws isn't going to make that happen.  Basically, we need to allow what's known as Gold Contracts, which legal tender laws make impossible.  You do something for me, and at some future time I must pay you X amount of gold, or sheep, or whatever.  What a legal tender law says that all things have a dollar value, and if a party can't settle a debt make in XYZ, he can give the equivalent dollar amount.

The dollar has value, as does every fiat currency, because people know others will take it.  You'd surely be able to buy gold with it.  Also, what are all these gold holders going to do with it all? Sit on it?  They need to eat too.  Gold holders would spend it, putting it into circulation.  Even if they're making more gold, there's still exchange going on. 

Maybe the fed could actively destroy the monetary base of dollars to maintain their value during the transition.  Either way, it's not an argument against allowing people to use other things for money. 

Did you know there are several alternative currencies in America now?  Interestedly enough, several are labor-theory-of-value marxist based ones, like Ithaca Hours.  https://www.ithacahours.com/intro.html

The problem is Gresham's Law prevents their widespread adoption. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 23, 2009, 05:42:38 PM
I don't doubt that gold would eventually get out, I just doubt the ease of which this transition would occur. Without legal tender laws, if I have gold, and you have paper money, why on earth would I trade you for the paper money? Again, I point to the 1760-1790's as historical reference. There woudl be some trading done, but most people would be harmed by such a transition.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on May 23, 2009, 05:59:13 PM
I don't doubt that gold would eventually get out, I just doubt the ease of which this transition would occur. Without legal tender laws, if I have gold, and you have paper money, why on earth would I trade you for the paper money? Again, I point to the 1760-1790's as historical reference. There woudl be some trading done, but most people would be harmed by such a transition.

What are you going to do with your gold, eat it?  If you're not spending your hoarded gold, that means you're spending something else, i.e. dollars, and if I gave you more dollars than you think that coin is worth, you'd be a fool not to take them.  I've had to sell gold for worthless fiat dollars before, and you know how much I love gold.  Besides, it's not even about that, it's about allowing people to use what they think best for money.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 24, 2009, 01:01:33 PM
I don't doubt that gold would eventually get out, I just doubt the ease of which this transition would occur. Without legal tender laws, if I have gold, and you have paper money, why on earth would I trade you for the paper money? Again, I point to the 1760-1790's as historical reference. There woudl be some trading done, but most people would be harmed by such a transition.

What are you going to do with your gold, eat it?  If you're not spending your hoarded gold, that means you're spending something else, i.e. dollars, and if I gave you more dollars than you think that coin is worth, you'd be a fool not to take them.  I've had to sell gold for worthless fiat dollars before, and you know how much I love gold.  Besides, it's not even about that, it's about allowing people to use what they think best for money.

Seriously, I'm not doubting that such transactions would occur and that it coudl eventually even out. I'm doubting the efficiency of such a measure and I'm looking at historical events which back this up. You had British Merchants in America who woudl refuse to accept paper-money becuase they felt it was useless. This fomented economic stagnation NUMEROUS times as people couldn't pay off their debts and they couldn't get gold becuase they didn't have the resources to acquire it.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 25, 2009, 10:19:09 AM
"9/11 Conspiracy Thread" got locked. Doesn't that prove already that it clearly was an inside job and the mods just are trying to hide it?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on May 25, 2009, 10:20:45 AM
"9/11 Conspiracy Thread" got locked. Doesn't that prove already that it clearly was an inside job and the mods just are trying to hide it?


Bosk is the mastermind behind 9/11.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 25, 2009, 11:12:49 AM
"9/11 Conspiracy Thread" got locked. Doesn't that prove already that it clearly was an inside job and the mods just are trying to hide it?
Bosk is the mastermind behind 9/11.
It all makes perfect sense.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MetalMike06 on May 25, 2009, 03:51:26 PM
"9/11 Conspiracy Thread" got locked. Doesn't that prove already that it clearly was an inside job and the mods just are trying to hide it?
Bosk is the mastermind behind 9/11.
It all makes perfect sense.

DUN DUN DUNNN

O_o
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: ReaPsTA on May 25, 2009, 04:27:40 PM
Reap, your forgetting a little thing in your analysis of the economy called

The Federal Reserve!

Hot damn, when will people realize that the excesses of wall street debt were made possible by the vast money creation of the fed?
No fed = no bubble
Also,

No implicit government bailouts plus no GSE's = no "too big to fail" bullshit, although it's even false now.

Utterly wrong. No Federal Reserve doesn't change the fact that people on Wall Street are more about satisfying their own greed than creating value.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 25, 2009, 05:08:33 PM
Reap, your forgetting a little thing in your analysis of the economy called

The Federal Reserve!

Hot damn, when will people realize that the excesses of wall street debt were made possible by the vast money creation of the fed?
No fed = no bubble
Also,

No implicit government bailouts plus no GSE's = no "too big to fail" bullshit, although it's even false now.

Utterly wrong. No Federal Reserve doesn't change the fact that people on Wall Street are more about satisfying their own greed than creating value.
But they do that because the Federal Reserve keeps pumping money into the market. Bush said: "Wall Street is drunk". Yeah, because the Federal Reserve poured the alcohol. No back up money, not so constant stupid and greedy risks.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 25, 2009, 05:35:45 PM
Reap, your forgetting a little thing in your analysis of the economy called

The Federal Reserve!

Hot damn, when will people realize that the excesses of wall street debt were made possible by the vast money creation of the fed?
No fed = no bubble
Also,

No implicit government bailouts plus no GSE's = no "too big to fail" bullshit, although it's even false now.

Utterly wrong. No Federal Reserve doesn't change the fact that people on Wall Street are more about satisfying their own greed than creating value.
But they do that because the Federal Reserve keeps pumping money into the market. Bush said: "Wall Street is drunk". Yeah, because the Federal Reserve poured the alcohol. No back up money, not so constant stupid and greedy risks.

That's why it worked rather well until the same banks lobbied and got the regulations taken away....
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 25, 2009, 05:39:22 PM
Reap, your forgetting a little thing in your analysis of the economy called

The Federal Reserve!

Hot damn, when will people realize that the excesses of wall street debt were made possible by the vast money creation of the fed?
No fed = no bubble
Also,

No implicit government bailouts plus no GSE's = no "too big to fail" bullshit, although it's even false now.

Utterly wrong. No Federal Reserve doesn't change the fact that people on Wall Street are more about satisfying their own greed than creating value.
But they do that because the Federal Reserve keeps pumping money into the market. Bush said: "Wall Street is drunk". Yeah, because the Federal Reserve poured the alcohol. No back up money, not so constant stupid and greedy risks.
That's why it worked rather well until the same banks lobbied.
You should have stopped right there. Banks can lobby because apparently is legal over there. BIG MISTAKE. And they can also get away with it because Government is too big; their demands have to pass some how with big manoeuvres.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 25, 2009, 08:19:54 PM
I liked this thing I stumbled upon.
Quote from: CollegeHumor
New Preamble for the Constitution
by brenna on March 08, 2007
NEW PREAMBLE TO THE CONSTITUTION! The following has been attributed to State Representative Mitchell Kaye from GA. This guy should run for President one day...
 
"We the sensible people of the United States, in an attempt to help everyone get along, restore some semblance of justice, avoid more riots, keep our nation safe, promote positive behavior, and secure the blessings of debt-free liberty to ourselves and our great-great-great-grandchildren, hereby try one more time to ordain and establish some common sense guidelines for the terminally whiny, guilt ridden, delusional, and other liberal bed-wetters. We hold these truths to be self evident: that a whole lot of people are confused by the Bill of Rights and are so dim they require a Bill of NON-Rights."
 

  • ARTICLE I: You do not have the right to a new car, big screen TV, or any other form of wealth. More power to you if you can legally acquire them, but no one is guaranteeing anything.
  • ARTICLE II: You do not have the right to never be offended. This country is based on freedom, and that means freedom for everyone -- not just you! You may leave the room, turn the channel, express a different opinion, etc.; but the world is full of idiots, and probably always will be.
  • ARTICLE III: You do not have the right to be free from harm. If you stick a screwdriver in your eye, learn to be more careful; do not expect the tool manufacturer to make you and all your relatives independently wealthy.
  • ARTICLE IV: You do not have the right to free food and housing. Americans are the most charitable people to be found, and will gladly help anyone in need, but we are quickly growing weary of subsidizing generation after generation of professional couch potatoes who achieve nothing more than the creation of another generation of professional couch potatoes. (This one is my pet peeve...get an education and go to work....don't expect everyone else to take care of you!)
  • ARTICLE V: You do not have the right to free health care. That would be nice, but from the looks of public housing, we're just not interested in public health care.
  • ARTICLE VI: You do not have the right to physically harm other people. If you kidnap, rape, intentionally maim, or kill someone, don't be surprised if the rest of us want to see you fry in the electric chair.
  • ARTICLE VII: You do not have the right to the possessions of others. If you rob, cheat, or coerce away the goods or services of other citizens, don't be surprised if the rest of us get together and lock you away in a place where you still won't have the right to a big screen color TV or a life of leisure.
  • ARTICLE VIII: You do not have the right to a job. All of us sure want you to have a job, and will gladly help you along in hard times, but we expect you to take advantage of the opportunities of education and vocational training laid before you to make yourself useful. (AMEN!)
  • ARTICLE IX: You do not have the right to happiness. Being an American means that you have the right to PURSUE happiness, which by the way, is a lot easier if you are unencumbered by an over abundance of idiotic laws created by those of you who were confused by the Bill of Rights.
  • ARTICLE X: This is an English speaking country. We don't care where you are from, English is our language. Learn it or go back to wherever you came from! (Lastly....)
  • ARTICLE XI: You do not have the right to change our country's history or heritage. This country was founded on the belief in one true God. And yet, you are given the freedom to believe in any religion, any faith, or no faith at all; with no fear of persecution. The phrase IN GOD WE TRUST is part of our heritage and history, and if you are uncomfortable with it, TOUGH!

If you agree, share this with a friend. No, you don't have to, and nothing tragic will befall you if you don't. I just think it's about time common sense is allowed to flourish. Sensible people of the United States speak out because if you do not, who will
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 25, 2009, 10:06:16 PM
So Jobe, I have a few questions:

How do you imagine a transition to the gold standard would work?
Thomas E. Woods, author of the NYTimes best seller book, Meltdown, wrote recently on his website the following:

How to Return to Gold

Plenty of sensible people recognize there’s something wrong with our money, and favor a return to a commodity money as existed under the gold standard.  But how do we get from here to there?  Here are the answers of Henry Hazlitt (these are direct links) (https://mises.org/books/inflation.pdf) (.pdf; scroll down to pp. 58-61); Murray Rothbard, (https://www.lewrockwell.com/rothbard/rothbard200.html) and George Reisman (https://mises.org/multimedia/mp3/MU2007/61-Reisman.mp3) (mp3).

One of the difficulties with the classical gold standard is that it relied on decent, honorable, and intelligent politicians who wouldn’t just abandon the system when it suited them. Nobel Prize winner F.A. Hayek didn’t trust them. Here are his remarks on the complete separation of money and state. (https://mises.org/story/3204)

Ron Paul has arguably the simplest solution, which he outlines in The Revolution: A Manifesto, (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0446537519?ie=UTF8&tag=thomacom-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0446537519) his #1 New York Times bestseller: abolish legal tender laws (which are a monopolistic intrusion into the free market), do away with all taxation on gold and silver, and simply allow people — this is a free country, right? — to choose what suits them best as a medium of exchange.  In no time society would, I am certain, converge once again on precious metals, what Professor Jörg Guido Hülsmann calls “natural money.”
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 26, 2009, 12:48:03 AM
What if we simly went back to backing the money we do have with gold, and other commodities? Not just gold, but a variety of them (like China is doing and like China proposed).

Also, that thing from College Humor is quite stupid. Not only is it a rather failed attempt at humor, the last two are also rather ignorant The problem with the right is they don't know comedy.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on May 26, 2009, 12:55:17 AM
NK just fired 2 more missiles (i.e. duds) off their east coast, per Faux News.  :\
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 26, 2009, 08:41:15 AM
NK just fired 2 more missiles (i.e. duds) off their east coast, per Faux News.  :\
Nah! The big news is Sonia Sotomayor being nominated by Obama for the Supreme Court. :hat That's the real world headline.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 26, 2009, 08:42:05 AM
What if we simly went back to backing the money we do have with gold, and other commodities? Not just gold, but a variety of them (like China is doing and like China proposed).
What other commodities.

And I don't care for the CollegeHumor, I did find it funny.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 26, 2009, 02:26:06 PM
What if we simly went back to backing the money we do have with gold, and other commodities? Not just gold, but a variety of them (like China is doing and like China proposed).
What other commodities.

And I don't care for the CollegeHumor, I did find it funny.

Beyond the valuables people have (say, silver/diamonds) but also essentials for our economy; copper (electrical wiring), silicon (computers), etc.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: bosk1 on May 26, 2009, 02:38:27 PM
New forum theme has been installed that lets you choose between a few different color schemes.  I'm using the grey scheme that looks a lot like DTF light, but there are other options.  Overall, this theme has a lot of really cool options that I like.  Try it out if you haven't.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 26, 2009, 02:58:35 PM
What if we simly went back to backing the money we do have with gold, and other commodities? Not just gold, but a variety of them (like China is doing and like China proposed).
What other commodities.

And I don't care for the CollegeHumor, I did find it funny.

Beyond the valuables people have (say, silver/diamonds) but also essentials for our economy; copper (electrical wiring), silicon (computers), etc.
As for silver/diamonds, I wouldn't object. Silver was also sound money before '71.
Copper and silicon, this may work for now, just like oil does, but I know that in the future we won't need any of those. Copper... wifi energy will replace the need of it. Silicon... same as copper, will be replaced in a sec once they figure out a way to attach chips without glue.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on May 26, 2009, 03:24:17 PM
What if we simly went back to backing the money we do have with gold, and other commodities? Not just gold, but a variety of them (like China is doing and like China proposed).
What other commodities.

And I don't care for the CollegeHumor, I did find it funny.

Beyond the valuables people have (say, silver/diamonds) but also essentials for our economy; copper (electrical wiring), silicon (computers), etc.
As for silver/diamonds, I wouldn't object. Silver was also sound money before '71.
Copper and silicon, this may work for now, just like oil does, but I know that in the future we won't need any of those. Copper... wifi energy will replace the need of it. Silicon... same as copper, will be replaced in a sec once they figure out a way to attach chips without glue.

Metallurgy and microchip fabrication are not your fields. Diamonds aren't fungible or divisible without a major loss in value, they would make a very back backing for a currency.  Silver, gold copper, etc, are good, silver being the best.  Chips are made of silicon, not attached with silicon glue.  :facepalm:


Reap, your forgetting a little thing in your analysis of the economy called

The Federal Reserve!

Hot damn, when will people realize that the excesses of wall street debt were made possible by the vast money creation of the fed?
No fed = no bubble
Also,

No implicit government bailouts plus no GSE's = no "too big to fail" bullshit, although it's even false now.

Utterly wrong. No Federal Reserve doesn't change the fact that people on Wall Street are more about satisfying their own greed than creating value.

Greed alone is not the problem.   The federal reserve provided the rope upon which Wall Street hung themselves.

Greed is a problem, however any disaster would be limited in nature.  The Fed makes the problem of greed and excess systemic. With increases in the money supply, any relative increase in one area of the economy diverts resources away from others now only in the current time but also future, and rightfully so.  A bubble is limited in size and scope.  Inflation induces the massive bubbles and swings.

Like I've said, a greedy gambler can only lose his own money in a casino.  The fed is like the gamblers buddy that provides him with more money every time he loses, but allows him to keep all the profits from winning, and to boot, the money he gives the gambler is the American people's money. 

Greed is not even a necessary or sufficient condition.  Fed induced bubbles can happen without anyone being greedy, they distort information.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 26, 2009, 03:44:36 PM
What if we simly went back to backing the money we do have with gold, and other commodities? Not just gold, but a variety of them (like China is doing and like China proposed).
What other commodities.

And I don't care for the CollegeHumor, I did find it funny.

Beyond the valuables people have (say, silver/diamonds) but also essentials for our economy; copper (electrical wiring), silicon (computers), etc.
As for silver/diamonds, I wouldn't object. Silver was also sound money before '71.
Copper and silicon, this may work for now, just like oil does, but I know that in the future we won't need any of those. Copper... wifi energy will replace the need of it. Silicon... same as copper, will be replaced in a sec once they figure out a way to attach chips without glue.

Metallurgy and microchip fabrication are not your fields. Diamonds aren't fungible or divisible without a major loss in value, they would make a very back backing for a currency.  Silver, gold copper, etc, are good, silver being the best.  Chips are made of silicon, not attached with silicon glue.  :facepalm:
And this emindead making look like an ass.
:neverusethis:
Anyway, sure, the diamonds are not easily divisible but that won't let people know "it's relative value" against other things?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on May 27, 2009, 12:22:07 AM
It doesn't take being the backing of a currency to know somethings value....

Any diamond can be denominated in X grams of gold, but a gold bar cannot be denominated in X diamonds.  You need to know what specific diamonds, where they are from, how clear they are, what's the cut, etc etc etc.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on May 27, 2009, 02:53:39 PM
Copper... wifi energy will replace the need of it.

Wifi energy?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 27, 2009, 03:29:18 PM
Copper... wifi energy will replace the need of it.

Wifi energy?

Technically, anything WiFi transmits energy; just it's on a very small scale, and some people have high hopes for it becoming large scale. Every time you use a radio, you're receiving transmitted energy (all waves move energy about).
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on May 27, 2009, 03:35:49 PM
Copper... wifi energy will replace the need of it.

Wifi energy?

Technically, anything WiFi transmits energy; just it's on a very small scale, and some people have high hopes for it becoming large scale. Every time you use a radio, you're receiving transmitted energy (all waves move energy about).

Well yeah but there's a massive difference between sending signals wirelessly and transporting energy. Just ask this guy:

(https://gcoinc.files.wordpress.com/2009/02/tesla.jpg)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 27, 2009, 03:40:06 PM
Copper... wifi energy will replace the need of it.

Wifi energy?

Technically, anything WiFi transmits energy; just it's on a very small scale, and some people have high hopes for it becoming large scale. Every time you use a radio, you're receiving transmitted energy (all waves move energy about).

Well yeah but there's a massive difference between sending signals wirelessly and transporting energy. Just ask this guy:

(https://gcoinc.files.wordpress.com/2009/02/tesla.jpg)

Yes, but if I recall correctly, Tesla also thought it was feasible - even near the end of his life. And on some level, sending signals wirelessly IS transporting energy... just a much smaller amount. Difference of degree, not of type.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on May 27, 2009, 05:14:43 PM
More like magnitudes of difference.

EDIT: And besides, maybe turning the surface of the planet into a giant microwave oven is a bad thing... there's already research pointed towards harmful effects of always being in the presence of these fields in the strengths they are now. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 27, 2009, 05:18:30 PM
Jobe:

Quote
Mankind has every right to do whatever they please up to the point where the infringe upon others rights.  This is a very clear line, and religionlessly provides a very clear framework from which you can definitively say murder and theft are wrong and properly punishable by the state, homosexuality and every other victimless "crimes" such as drug abuse, are in no way to be criminalized by the state.  
Non-aggression principle.


Why don't you extend this to corporations and businesses? Or is the problem that you don't see how and where companies infringe upon the rights of others?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on May 27, 2009, 05:41:57 PM
Jobe:

Quote
Mankind has every right to do whatever they please up to the point where the infringe upon others rights.  This is a very clear line, and religionlessly provides a very clear framework from which you can definitively say murder and theft are wrong and properly punishable by the state, homosexuality and every other victimless "crimes" such as drug abuse, are in no way to be criminalized by the state.  
Non-aggression principle.


Why don't you extend this to corporations and businesses? Or is the problem that you don't see how and where companies infringe upon the rights of others?

Companies infringe on other people's rights all the time... when their pollution harms other people's property... (the EPA doesn't allow landowners to fight back)  This is wrong, and these companies should be sued to stop and even criminal penalties brought against the transgresses if they are truly violating people's rights.  What those rights are we probably disagree on.  So I appreciate the question, and answer it that I do extend this to corporations and businesses.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 27, 2009, 06:18:29 PM
Well why do you oppose regulation so much? I view it on equal grounds as making murder illegal. The utmost expression of freedom - in any field - is or can be undesirable due to the consequences.

It's the extremes again.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on May 27, 2009, 07:12:31 PM
Well why do you oppose regulation so much? I view it on equal grounds as making murder illegal. The utmost expression of freedom - in any field - is or can be undesirable due to the consequences.

It's the extremes again.

When allowed to, key word, allowed, markets truly do "self regulate."  Dishonest companies can only "cook the books" for so long, in a free market eventually all ponzi schemes must come to an end.  So many of the governments interventions, for example, the Federal Reserve, disrupt this natural process.  The Federal Reserve was hailed as the solution to "break the wall-street banking trust," when in fact the legislation was covertly authored by representatives of the big banks. (if this sounds like a conspiracy, it is.  It is a conspiracy backed up by a plethora of sources and cross-references, including the representative's autobiographies) Why would people like J.P. Morgan desire such "regulation?" Because it is a government enforced cartel that protects banks from bank runs and by providing them with non-market powers, and allows banks to make monopolistic profits and prevent competition. 

Other forms of regulations are actively lobbied for by huge companies that know they can afford to comply with them, but small start ups cannot, like sarbanes-oxley.  The cost of complying prevents many companies from expanding, a.k.a. prevent competition. 

It's not the government's job to make sure we are making good investments or whatever. The SEC has shown to be virtually criminally incompetent anyway. 

Most government intrusion into the market either crowd out a potential private alternative that would be much more efficient, create unavoidable moral hazard, and rely of non-market powers that are often used to benefit one party at the expense of another.

Additionally, I am in favor of prosecuting corporate criminals.  When companies infringe on others rights, they should be held accountable.  That's on par with prosecuting murder, not setting emission standards for cars. 

I don't advocate the "rule of nature."  You have the right to do whatsoever you please until you infringe on someone else's rights.  No one has the "freedom" to initiate force against others.  It's called the non-aggression principle.  If tobacco companies were taking people off the street and putting them in smoke-filled rooms, they'd be cause for government intervention.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 27, 2009, 07:36:43 PM
I can make the same arguments about murder. Society will also "self-regulate" against murder; anyone who goes around killing people will eventually find himself dead, with or without laws. Or theft, or any other such crime that even you believe a government has the authority and propriety to punish.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on May 27, 2009, 08:13:22 PM
The difference is murders are infringing on people's rights, while many things corporations do that you believe call for regulation do not. (Unless they do, of course, in which case government intervention is it's job.)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on May 27, 2009, 08:24:04 PM
I want to refine what I said a bit ago about economic laws having the same force as laws of nature. 

Government laws exist so long as there is government to enforce them.  Economic laws exist before and outside of government, ever more so than my concept of rights, for while you can dispute the existence or origin of rights and deny they exist, economic laws exist in a total, (i.e. market,) anarchy, and within government rule.  Man is powerless to change or overcome economic laws through political maneuvering, rules or regulations. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 28, 2009, 03:10:49 PM
The difference is murders are infringing on people's rights, while many things corporations do that you believe call for regulation do not. (Unless they do, of course, in which case government intervention is it's job.)

I would say that most of the time it's done "invisibly," and to the extent that you don't know always know its happening. Like if a company across the state is pouring chemicals into the water, or spewing chemicals into the air.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on May 28, 2009, 08:49:29 PM
The difference is murders are infringing on people's rights, while many things corporations do that you believe call for regulation do not. (Unless they do, of course, in which case government intervention is it's job.)

I would say that most of the time it's done "invisibly," and to the extent that you don't know always know its happening. Like if a company across the state is pouring chemicals into the water, or spewing chemicals into the air.

Those companies should be sued by the affected property owners and damages awarded and paid.  If the damages result in bankruptcy, so be it.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 28, 2009, 11:52:31 PM
The difference is murders are infringing on people's rights, while many things corporations do that you believe call for regulation do not. (Unless they do, of course, in which case government intervention is it's job.)

I would say that most of the time it's done "invisibly," and to the extent that you don't know always know its happening. Like if a company across the state is pouring chemicals into the water, or spewing chemicals into the air.

Those companies should be sued by the affected property owners and damages awarded and paid.  If the damages result in bankruptcy, so be it.

How do you measure who is the affected property owner? Especially when it's spewed into the air, how do you determine that? Or in the water, how do you determine who exactly is the affected property owner, or person? And what about potentially not knowing for years, if it was in your body? How about CO2, when the affected persons can be considered everyone on the planet? Or any other such chemical?

I would also point out that your solution required governmental intervention to settle the case and carry out it's decision. Why is the company necessarily going to follow such orders, especially in the decentralized, quasi-anarchism you dream of? In any case, you will still end up with things companies can do with are illegal when taken to court, which amounts to the exact same thing as regulation.


Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 29, 2009, 08:10:34 AM
The difference is murders are infringing on people's rights, while many things corporations do that you believe call for regulation do not. (Unless they do, of course, in which case government intervention is it's job.)

I would say that most of the time it's done "invisibly," and to the extent that you don't know always know its happening. Like if a company across the state is pouring chemicals into the water, or spewing chemicals into the air.

Those companies should be sued by the affected property owners and damages awarded and paid.  If the damages result in bankruptcy, so be it.

How do you measure who is the affected property owner? Especially when it's spewed into the air, how do you determine that? Or in the water, how do you determine who exactly is the affected property owner, or person? And what about potentially not knowing for years, if it was in your body? How about CO2, when the affected persons can be considered everyone on the planet? Or any other such chemical?

I would also point out that your solution required governmental intervention to settle the case and carry out it's decision. Why is the company necessarily going to follow such orders, especially in the decentralized, quasi-anarchism you dream of? In any case, you will still end up with things companies can do with are illegal when taken to court, which amounts to the exact same thing as regulation.
What? The solution is that if you own a land, you own both the soil and the air above it (or so it must be). If toxic gases come into your property it's dead easy today to find out what company is emanating them. You could allege of the future problems this may have to those who live in your property and the devastating consequences. I don't think everybody will sue if cows farts CO2 come into your property. But to other industrial chemicals, today is really easy to determine which one did it.

In today's system, sure, you have to go to court which is supervised by the government. However, from a Libertarian position, courts will no longer be object of the State. There will be private trials. It's the privatization of that system. The purpose of the justice system will change from today's enforcement of the government laws to the Free-Market Justice of restoring individuals' damaged rights.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 29, 2009, 02:10:55 PM
You missed the point of my post. It isn't so simle as "are these chemicals on my land," becuase you may not notice the side ffects from it for years, or it may be extremely easy to miss for years. Also, you bypassed the issue of water. If a company is pouring chemicals into the water, that affects pretty much everyone in the globe. If I live in New Orleans and there's a company way up in Montana dumping chemicals in the Missouri river, which I then drink and get affected by, do you imagine it's going to be easy for me to konw this? Or even possible for me to know this? We know this from DDT - it doesn't just stay in one area, it spreads around the globe. You can't view the world as a series of isolated ecosystems, they're all connected in major ways and what you do in one ecosystem invariably moves to other ecosystems. You make it sound as if the problems caused by pollution is isolated and isn't devstating long-term. How does someone forty years from now sue a company that may be out of business now because of the damage done to his property or his person? CO2 emissions aren't isolated either, they mess with the balance way up in the atmosphere - are you going to tell me the average farmer is going to be aware of that co2? How?

Sorry, but private trials would be a farce. A complete farce. You can't just make a court decision and expect it to be carried through, you need power behind that decision for people to actually follow through with it. There needs to be authority where there is to be justice.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on May 29, 2009, 04:49:33 PM
You missed the point of my post. It isn't so simle as "are these chemicals on my land," becuase you may not notice the side ffects from it for years, or it may be extremely easy to miss for years. Also, you bypassed the issue of water. If a company is pouring chemicals into the water, that affects pretty much everyone in the globe. If I live in New Orleans and there's a company way up in Montana dumping chemicals in the Missouri river, which I then drink and get affected by, do you imagine it's going to be easy for me to konw this? Or even possible for me to know this? We know this from DDT - it doesn't just stay in one area, it spreads around the globe. You can't view the world as a series of isolated ecosystems, they're all connected in major ways and what you do in one ecosystem invariably moves to other ecosystems. You make it sound as if the problems caused by pollution is isolated and isn't devstating long-term. How does someone forty years from now sue a company that may be out of business now because of the damage done to his property or his person? CO2 emissions aren't isolated either, they mess with the balance way up in the atmosphere - are you going to tell me the average farmer is going to be aware of that co2? How?

Sorry, but private trials would be a farce. A complete farce. You can't just make a court decision and expect it to be carried through, you need power behind that decision for people to actually follow through with it. There needs to be authority where there is to be justice.

You should look into the privatization of rivers and streams. Started in Rumborak's turf, actually. The Ruhrverband

https://www.ruhrverband.de/ruhrverband_en/html/frame_rv.html

https://translate.google.com/translate?hl=en&sl=de&u=https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ruhrverband&ei=AmYgSuv5DcWGtgeFvaywBg&sa=X&oi=translate&resnum=2&ct=result&prev=/search%3Fq%3Druhrverband%2Bwiki%26hl%3Den%26client%3Dfirefox-a%26rls%3Dorg.mozilla:en-US:official%26hs%3D7Xq%26sa%3DG

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 29, 2009, 05:08:00 PM
You missed the point of my post. It isn't so simle as "are these chemicals on my land," becuase you may not notice the side ffects from it for years, or it may be extremely easy to miss for years. Also, you bypassed the issue of water. If a company is pouring chemicals into the water, that affects pretty much everyone in the globe. If I live in New Orleans and there's a company way up in Montana dumping chemicals in the Missouri river, which I then drink and get affected by, do you imagine it's going to be easy for me to konw this? Or even possible for me to know this? We know this from DDT - it doesn't just stay in one area, it spreads around the globe. You can't view the world as a series of isolated ecosystems, they're all connected in major ways and what you do in one ecosystem invariably moves to other ecosystems. You make it sound as if the problems caused by pollution is isolated and isn't devstating long-term. How does someone forty years from now sue a company that may be out of business now because of the damage done to his property or his person? CO2 emissions aren't isolated either, they mess with the balance way up in the atmosphere - are you going to tell me the average farmer is going to be aware of that co2? How?

Sorry, but private trials would be a farce. A complete farce. You can't just make a court decision and expect it to be carried through, you need power behind that decision for people to actually follow through with it. There needs to be authority where there is to be justice.

You should look into the privatization of rivers and streams. Started in Rumborak's turf, actually. The Ruhrverband

https://www.ruhrverband.de/ruhrverband_en/html/frame_rv.html

https://translate.google.com/translate?hl=en&sl=de&u=https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ruhrverband&ei=AmYgSuv5DcWGtgeFvaywBg&sa=X&oi=translate&resnum=2&ct=result&prev=/search%3Fq%3Druhrverband%2Bwiki%26hl%3Den%26client%3Dfirefox-a%26rls%3Dorg.mozilla:en-US:official%26hs%3D7Xq%26sa%3DG



We would have to privatize the ecosystem for your idea to plausibly work. How do you privatize the oceans? Which, I would say, is pragmatically done with the government. Major parts of the ecosystem shouldn't and can't be "owned" by any one person; reality isn't so isolated. If we adopted the measures you suggest, there might be more done in some area's, but it also leaves gigantic holes under the name of a solution.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 29, 2009, 05:15:13 PM
You missed the point of my post. It isn't so simle as "are these chemicals on my land," becuase you may not notice the side ffects from it for years, or it may be extremely easy to miss for years. Also, you bypassed the issue of water. If a company is pouring chemicals into the water, that affects pretty much everyone in the globe. If I live in New Orleans and there's a company way up in Montana dumping chemicals in the Missouri river, which I then drink and get affected by, do you imagine it's going to be easy for me to konw this? Or even possible for me to know this? We know this from DDT - it doesn't just stay in one area, it spreads around the globe. You can't view the world as a series of isolated ecosystems, they're all connected in major ways and what you do in one ecosystem invariably moves to other ecosystems. You make it sound as if the problems caused by pollution is isolated and isn't devstating long-term. How does someone forty years from now sue a company that may be out of business now because of the damage done to his property or his person? CO2 emissions aren't isolated either, they mess with the balance way up in the atmosphere - are you going to tell me the average farmer is going to be aware of that co2? How?

Sorry, but private trials would be a farce. A complete farce. You can't just make a court decision and expect it to be carried through, you need power behind that decision for people to actually follow through with it. There needs to be authority where there is to be justice.

You should look into the privatization of rivers and streams. Started in Rumborak's turf, actually. The Ruhrverband

https://www.ruhrverband.de/ruhrverband_en/html/frame_rv.html

https://translate.google.com/translate?hl=en&sl=de&u=https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ruhrverband&ei=AmYgSuv5DcWGtgeFvaywBg&sa=X&oi=translate&resnum=2&ct=result&prev=/search%3Fq%3Druhrverband%2Bwiki%26hl%3Den%26client%3Dfirefox-a%26rls%3Dorg.mozilla:en-US:official%26hs%3D7Xq%26sa%3DG



We would have to privatize the ecosystem for your idea to plausibly work. How do you privatize the oceans? Which, I would say, is pragmatically done with the government. Major parts of the ecosystem shouldn't and can't be "owned" by any one person; reality isn't so isolated. If we adopted the measures you suggest, there might be more done in some area's, but it also leaves gigantic holes under the name of a solution.
Nope? Privatization of the ecosystem = goodbye, Global Warming.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 30, 2009, 01:01:22 AM
Astounding refutation; you completely bypassed any possible problem with the blanket statement: nope. It makes me think you're being sarcastic, but I can't tell since it's the internet.

So tell me, how exactly do you privatize the ecosystem?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 30, 2009, 08:19:47 AM
So tell me, how exactly do you privatize the ecosystem?
You start buying it. Maybe a new private ministry creates that starts recognizing who wants land. Depending on the value of that land you buy it. Where the money goes? (This is me just throwing ideas, I'm sure better have been proposed but I'll give it a shot.) I will say 3/4 would go to the government and the other quarter to that special new ministry (they have to live with something). Once you pay for what the land costs you'll have your recognition by the State and the ministry.

Say someone wants to exploit your land. Well, since finally there's an owner who cares for his land, the "devastation" of it will be minimal. You'll have a contract with the company who wants to work in that land. Both of you win. A boat crosses your territorial sea land, you'll know. You'll charge him a fee for being in your property (if you want of course, better for you; more money to you). This way it'll be easier to know who contaminated your property, who's fishing in your territory etc. Contamination problem will reduce significantly (and by that I mean a lot) because people will finally be careful of what they throw to the water; they will finally respond to someone who really cares.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 30, 2009, 01:11:11 PM
So tell me, how exactly do you privatize the ecosystem?
You start buying it. Maybe a new private ministry creates that starts recognizing who wants land. Depending on the value of that land you buy it. Where the money goes? (This is me just throwing ideas, I'm sure better have been proposed but I'll give it a shot.) I will say 3/4 would go to the government and the other quarter to that special new ministry (they have to live with something). Once you pay for what the land costs you'll have your recognition by the State and the ministry.

Say someone wants to exploit your land. Well, since finally there's an owner who cares for his land, the "devastation" of it will be minimal. You'll have a contract with the company who wants to work in that land. Both of you win. A boat crosses your territorial sea land, you'll know. You'll charge him a fee for being in your property (if you want of course, better for you; more money to you). This way it'll be easier to know who contaminated your property, who's fishing in your territory etc. Contamination problem will reduce significantly (and by that I mean a lot) because people will finally be careful of what they throw to the water; they will finally respond to someone who really cares.

See there's the problem - you equated ecosystem with land. They are not the same, at all.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 30, 2009, 01:51:34 PM
So tell me, how exactly do you privatize the ecosystem?
You start buying it. Maybe a new private ministry creates that starts recognizing who wants land. Depending on the value of that land you buy it. Where the money goes? (This is me just throwing ideas, I'm sure better have been proposed but I'll give it a shot.) I will say 3/4 would go to the government and the other quarter to that special new ministry (they have to live with something). Once you pay for what the land costs you'll have your recognition by the State and the ministry.

Say someone wants to exploit your land. Well, since finally there's an owner who cares for his land, the "devastation" of it will be minimal. You'll have a contract with the company who wants to work in that land. Both of you win. A boat crosses your territorial sea land, you'll know. You'll charge him a fee for being in your property (if you want of course, better for you; more money to you). This way it'll be easier to know who contaminated your property, who's fishing in your territory etc. Contamination problem will reduce significantly (and by that I mean a lot) because people will finally be careful of what they throw to the water; they will finally respond to someone who really cares.

See there's the problem - you equated ecosystem with land. They are not the same, at all.
How the hell do you expect to privatize an ecosystem? You privatize land. Animals can still use it. Their ecosystem is not necessarily going to be affected. Besides, I bet they'll be much safer when there's private property than they are now.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 30, 2009, 02:08:12 PM
So tell me, how exactly do you privatize the ecosystem?
You start buying it. Maybe a new private ministry creates that starts recognizing who wants land. Depending on the value of that land you buy it. Where the money goes? (This is me just throwing ideas, I'm sure better have been proposed but I'll give it a shot.) I will say 3/4 would go to the government and the other quarter to that special new ministry (they have to live with something). Once you pay for what the land costs you'll have your recognition by the State and the ministry.

Say someone wants to exploit your land. Well, since finally there's an owner who cares for his land, the "devastation" of it will be minimal. You'll have a contract with the company who wants to work in that land. Both of you win. A boat crosses your territorial sea land, you'll know. You'll charge him a fee for being in your property (if you want of course, better for you; more money to you). This way it'll be easier to know who contaminated your property, who's fishing in your territory etc. Contamination problem will reduce significantly (and by that I mean a lot) because people will finally be careful of what they throw to the water; they will finally respond to someone who really cares.

See there's the problem - you equated ecosystem with land. They are not the same, at all.
How the hell do you expect to privatize an ecosystem? You privatize land. Animals can still use it. Not necessarily their ecosystem are going to be affected. Besides, I bet they'll be much safer when there's private property than they are now.

My point exactly, and that's exactly what you require if you want to adaquately and justifiably have private ownership take care of it. The ecosystem, in toto, is what matters; not the pieces of land which are found on it but the ways the animals and the environment on that land interacts. The ecosystem requires cooperation. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on May 30, 2009, 02:11:52 PM
Their ecosystem is not necessarily going to be affected.

 :tup
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 30, 2009, 02:21:38 PM
:)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 30, 2009, 02:29:49 PM
If our ecosystem is affected, so is "theirs." It's not as if each animal has it's own ecosystem, each animals fits into the ecosystem in different ways. It's also besides the point: Jobe said himself that people are free to do what they want insofar as they don't harm other people. He didn't say harm "what" people (the landowners or not), but people. Your system has too many holes which can't be filled, as in who exactly has the ability to protect their land. A company in Canada spewing out certain chemicals harms the ecosystem in a way which affects a tiny village fisher in Indonesia. DDT is to be found all over the world now, and not because it was USED all over the world. In what fantasy land is the Indonesian farmer going to be able to know he's being directly harmed by those chemicals, and then have the ability to SUE over it?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 30, 2009, 04:40:28 PM
If our ecosystem is affected, so is "theirs." It's not as if each animal has it's own ecosystem, each animals fits into the ecosystem in different ways. It's also besides the point: Jobe said himself that people are free to do what they want insofar as they don't harm other people. He didn't say harm "what" people (the landowners or not), but people. Your system has too many holes which can't be filled, as in who exactly has the ability to protect their land. A company in Canada spewing out certain chemicals harms the ecosystem in a way which affects a tiny village fisher in Indonesia. DDT is to be found all over the world now, and not because it was USED all over the world. In what fantasy land is the Indonesian farmer going to be able to know he's being directly harmed by those chemicals, and then have the ability to SUE over it?
Dude, are you ignoring present time? People own farms and share limits with their neighbours. Has that in a way affected the ecosystem? People own land and most of the time they don't exploit it. They just like the way it is. It's just that it's THEIR property. You have to stop thinking that EVERYTHING is going to be exploited. People take more care for their stuff than "public" property ever does.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 30, 2009, 05:05:57 PM
If our ecosystem is affected, so is "theirs." It's not as if each animal has it's own ecosystem, each animals fits into the ecosystem in different ways. It's also besides the point: Jobe said himself that people are free to do what they want insofar as they don't harm other people. He didn't say harm "what" people (the landowners or not), but people. Your system has too many holes which can't be filled, as in who exactly has the ability to protect their land. A company in Canada spewing out certain chemicals harms the ecosystem in a way which affects a tiny village fisher in Indonesia. DDT is to be found all over the world now, and not because it was USED all over the world. In what fantasy land is the Indonesian farmer going to be able to know he's being directly harmed by those chemicals, and then have the ability to SUE over it?
Dude, are you ignoring present time? People own farms and share limits with their neighbours. Has that in a way affected the ecosystem? People own land and most of the time they don't exploit it. They just like the way it is. It's just that it's THEIR property. You have to stop thinking that EVERYTHING is going to be exploited. People take more care for their stuff than "public" property ever does.

You are completely misinterpreting my argument, or ignoring other parts of it. This isn't about land owners exploiting anything, it's about companies using manufacturing processes and chemicals which affects EVERYONE and EVERYTHING with an ecosystem. It's also about the philosophical justification of regulation upon the SAME classical liberal ideaology which criminalizes murder and theft. It's about the fact that you, jobe and the libertarians on this forum afford more rights and less restrictions to businesses and corporations than you allow a citizen.

Seriously, why do you just jump to your own conclusions and assume that I must be taking those conclusions myself? I don't think I even once mentioned (even indirectly) the idea that landowners would exploit the land they have; and that this is the reason I don't think your plan would work so wonderfully as you assume. Is it because I'm taking an environmentalist stance that you assume I must align myself with everything environmentalists imagine or think?

As for the bolded part: of course it fucking has. As you kidding me? My being alive has affected the ecoystem. It isn't a question of affection, but a question of consequences. Farmers have and always will drastically affect the ecosystem in which they exist. This isn't even a question if, it's a question of how.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 30, 2009, 05:17:39 PM
You are completely misinterpreting my argument, or ignoring other parts of it. This isn't about land owners exploiting anything, it's about companies using manufacturing processes and chemicals which affects EVERYONE and EVERYTHING with an ecosystem. It's also about the philosophical justification of regulation upon the SAME classical liberal ideaology which criminalizes murder and theft. It's about the fact that you, jobe and the libertarians on this forum afford more rights and less restrictions to businesses and corporations than you allow a citizen.

Seriously, why do you just jump to your own conclusions and assume that I must be taking those conclusions myself? I don't think I even once mentioned (even indirectly) the idea that landowners would exploit the land they have; and that this is the reason I don't think your plan would work so wonderfully as you assume. Is it because I'm taking an environmentalist stance that you assume I must align myself with everything environmentalists imagine or think?

As for the bolded part: of course it fucking has. As you kidding me? My being alive has affected the ecoystem. It isn't a question of affection, but a question of consequences. Farmers have and always will drastically affect the ecosystem in which they exist. This isn't even a question if, it's a question of how.
OK. Fine. EVERYTHING AFFECTS EVERYTHING. We know that. You just ignore that the Libertarian proposition is giving the best alternative for the world to live in a better place! If people own land they can sue whoever is damaging it! The companies can ONLY damage theirs! It's that simple. They can do whatever they want as long as they don't affect the rest! Have I not worded my ideas properly for you not to get the argument? What's that I'm forgetting to say?

Everything we do has a reaction. The best solution for the Earth is if we all of us humans commit suicide and stop polluting it. That's what you prefer? We have to live here, but we also have to find ways for this Earth to last. And that's what my ideas (technically not mine) are presenting.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 30, 2009, 05:43:05 PM
Why do you have a double standard, one for companies and one for people? Why is it fine for government to regulate murder, but wrong for it to regulate such harmful consequences? THAT'S what you aren't answering, that's the point I'm getting at the point you continually ignore. Even after I restate that this is my point, you come back with something which isn't about this.

Where have I ever intoned that man is a virus or that we are intrinsically harmful to nature? Keep jumping to these stereotypes, it's rather entertaining. You seem to be thinking that humanity is apart of nature, when in fact it is simply a part of it. Your displaying a dichotomy which simply does not exist. More and more, science is starting to back this up. It's not about living apart from nature, it's about living with nature. The bacteria on your skin is usually good and wards against harmful bacteria; the worms and bacteria in your stomach helps you digest properly and leaves you healthier; living in an ultra-sterile environment foments allergies and a weak immune system; etc, etc. What's good for nature is good for us (as we are natural).

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 30, 2009, 06:19:42 PM
Then I don't know what you are trying to debate.

Why not the government, you ask? Because they have proven that they can't do it right. What government does, the Free Market can do it better. Free Market can protect better this world than government.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 30, 2009, 07:19:39 PM
Then I don't what you are trying to debate.

Why not the government, you ask? Because they have proven that they can't do it right. What government does, the Free Market can do it better. Free Market can protect better this world than government.

I can frame laws against ANYTHING in such a way. I can easily argue that the government should abolish all laws against murder and theft, as without the government, society would naturally do away with the people it doesn't appreciate of. If you didn't have government, then someone who goes around kiling people will just find himself dead. Problem solved, yes? And without the need of "the big bad government!" So why is it that we don't do this?

Yet I doubt you go as far as to suggest these laws should be done away with (especially laws against theft, seeing as how I'm guessing you view the right to property as something vital); so then why is it fine for the government to regulate interactions between it's individual citizens when such free interactions harm others (no murder, no theft, etc), but not for government to regulate the interactions which occur between companies and businesses when such interactions harm others?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 30, 2009, 08:09:06 PM
Then I don't what you are trying to debate.

Why not the government, you ask? Because they have proven that they can't do it right. What government does, the Free Market can do it better. Free Market can protect better this world than government.

I can frame laws against ANYTHING in such a way. I can easily argue that the government should abolish all laws against murder and theft, as without the government, society would naturally do away with the people it doesn't appreciate of. If you didn't have government, then someone who goes around kiling people will just find himself dead. Problem solved, yes? And without the need of "the big bad government!" So why is it that we don't do this?

Yet I doubt you go as far as to suggest these laws should be done away with (especially laws against theft, seeing as how I'm guessing you view the right to property as something vital); so then why is it fine for the government to regulate interactions between it's individual citizens when such free interactions harm others (no murder, no theft, etc), but not for government to regulate the interactions which occur between companies and businesses when such interactions harm others?
The problem I have is with big government. Government I can tolerate; big government that starts making things that it shouldn't, no thanks. Police? Hell, they never get on time. They never trap the bad guys. They aren't really motivated to solve x case. They just have guns and think they are the law. Bounty hunters do a better job than them. Why? Money. And Money = motivation. Police supposedly try to "protect and serve" but are really lousy at their jobs. The things the government should do are minimal.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on May 30, 2009, 08:35:07 PM
Bounty hunters do a better job than them. Why? Money. And Money = motivation.

So what happens when the bounty hunter catches the bank robber, and the bank robber just splits half his take with him to get off?

And who pays the bounty hunter?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 30, 2009, 08:47:17 PM
Then I don't what you are trying to debate.

Why not the government, you ask? Because they have proven that they can't do it right. What government does, the Free Market can do it better. Free Market can protect better this world than government.

I can frame laws against ANYTHING in such a way. I can easily argue that the government should abolish all laws against murder and theft, as without the government, society would naturally do away with the people it doesn't appreciate of. If you didn't have government, then someone who goes around kiling people will just find himself dead. Problem solved, yes? And without the need of "the big bad government!" So why is it that we don't do this?

Yet I doubt you go as far as to suggest these laws should be done away with (especially laws against theft, seeing as how I'm guessing you view the right to property as something vital); so then why is it fine for the government to regulate interactions between it's individual citizens when such free interactions harm others (no murder, no theft, etc), but not for government to regulate the interactions which occur between companies and businesses when such interactions harm others?
The problem I have is with big government. Government I can tolerate; big government that starts making things that it shouldn't, no thanks. Police? Hell, they never get on time. They never trap the bad guys. They aren't really motivated to solve x case. They just have guns and think they are the law. Bounty hunters do a better job than them. Why? Money. And Money = motivation. Police supposedly try to "protect and serve" but are really lousy at their jobs. The things the government should do are minimal.

Ever consider the effect of the actual presence of police officers?

https://scholar.google.com/scholar?q=effect+of+police+presence+on+crime&hl=en&safe=off&um=1&ie=UTF-8&oi=scholart

I wish I could read more of the studies, but I found two quite new ones (disproving older theories) which showed an affect of the actual presence of crime on crime rate.

As for the bolded part, that's what we're arguing about, or at least what I originally asked Jobe about; and I'm saying that by the same logic that the government should and can regulate murder, theft, etc, and be within it's propriety, it should and can regulate business. It's applying social contract theory to not just individuals in a country, but the businesses that operate in the same country.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on May 31, 2009, 01:24:19 AM
Will comment later.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on June 01, 2009, 05:34:11 PM
Bounty hunters do a better job than them. Why? Money. And Money = motivation.

So what happens when the bounty hunter catches the bank robber, and the bank robber just splits half his take with him to get off?

And who pays the bounty hunter?
Wow, I forgot about this discussion.

The point I was trying to make was that bounty hunters do a better job because they are getting paid for that job. Sure, a regular cop has a salary, but he has it more or less guaranteed... and it generally suck. A bounty hunter may be given more money depending on the difficulty of his task (kept within legal standards, of course).

So, in a Free Market society, instead of a bureau being paid by the State through tax payers, there's a legal private company paid by clients. Much more effective, if you ask me. Not necessarily with the name "bounty hunters", but they'll come up with a much more appealing name for the public. So the clients will pay them if they want, not by force like the tax payers have to.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on June 01, 2009, 05:36:25 PM
So who pays the bounty hunters?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on June 01, 2009, 05:38:12 PM
So who pays the bounty hunters?
The clients.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on June 01, 2009, 05:39:13 PM
So who pays the bounty hunters?
The clients.

Who are the clients? The victims of whatever crime?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on June 01, 2009, 05:45:28 PM
So who pays the bounty hunters?
The clients.
Who are the clients? The victims of whatever crime?
Most of the times. Yes. I see where you are heading at.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on June 01, 2009, 05:51:55 PM
So who pays the bounty hunters?
The clients.
Who are the clients? The victims of whatever crime?
Most of the times. Yes. I see where you are heading at.

Ok, so,

1) You're making the victims of a crime pay to have the criminal captured. So you can kill someone with no family and it's perfectly fine? Not to mention how incredibly fucked up that is anyways.

2) Who responds to crimes in progress? If some guy's beating the hell out of his wife, she can't call, and what neighbor is going to pay? This applies to pretty much everything though. If you see some guy sneaking around your neighbor's house, the cops come and check it out. It could be totally legit, it could be a burglar. But in your case, someone would have to pay. "Yeah, it was just a friend who came by to check on the house while they're on vacation. That'll be 50 bucks". Cops do far more than just catch a criminal, and none of that at all applies to a private security firm.

3) What exactly is the role of government in your mind? You always say they're there to protect us, yet apparently not if the police should be privatized.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on June 01, 2009, 06:08:58 PM
Ok, so,

1) You're making the victims of a crime pay to have the criminal captured. So you can kill someone with no family and it's perfectly fine? Not to mention how incredibly fucked up that is anyways.

2) Who responds to crimes in progress? If some guy's beating the hell out of his wife, she can't call, and what neighbor is going to pay? This applies to pretty much everything though. If you see some guy sneaking around your neighbor's house, the cops come and check it out. It could be totally legit, it could be a burglar. But in your case, someone would have to pay. "Yeah, it was just a friend who came by to check on the house while they're on vacation. That'll be 50 bucks". Cops do far more than just catch a criminal, and none of that at all applies to a private security firm.

3) What exactly is the role of government in your mind? You always say they're there to protect us, yet apparently not if the police should be privatized.
1) The role of the Free Market is to reduce the size of the government. Not to annihilate it. Reducing the size of the cops is a tax relief. That's a fact. So cops would still exist, only that their work would be cut in half (or even more). You would still pay taxes. That could go directed to the cops and solve the mysterious crime of lonely Mrs. Jenkins who we really don't give a shit about, but anyway we still contribute so "justice" can be made. You see, you have less burden and the job is still done, even if you are poor.

2) It's not going to be that different with what we have today. You may have a contract with the company, just the same as if you pay for an alarm system. You suspect that someone is breaking into your house? You call them. Or you call the police. Now that I'm paying for my private security system I just might well use it. Not all of the times they charge for a distress call (and I've done some). Hell, they even come and check your house every day to see if everything is alright. The monthly fee pays for it.

3) As explained above, not everything has to be privatized. Maybe in the future it will. Who knows? I didn't came up with this projects, yet I'm really sure that someone has given more head to it than me and has a more coherent and better proposition. And still it sounds more productive than with what we have now.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on June 01, 2009, 08:41:55 PM
Emindead, you're trying to half argue the free market stance.  Basically, you're not going far enough or you're making concessions when you shouldn't and going too far. 

For example,
1) The role of the Free Market is to reduce the size of the government. Not to annihilate it.

I'd say the FM is entirely capable of replacing it and is better at doing the positive things gov does and less harmful than everything else the gov does.

You can either argue for a market anarchy, or concede to a limited government to take care of the things that most people will scoff at the idea of the market taking care our, (police services, military, etc) and have the market take care of the rest.

Of course, when talking to non-libertarians, I usually stick to some form of limited government, i.e. the constitution, it's usually only within libertarian circles when there can be serious discussions like poly-centric legal systems and things like this. (https://mises.org/journals/jls/3_2/3_2_3.pdf)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on June 01, 2009, 09:55:11 PM
Emindead, you're trying to half argue the free market stance.  Basically, you're not going far enough or you're making concessions when you shouldn't and going too far. 

For example,
1) The role of the Free Market is to reduce the size of the government. Not to annihilate it.

I'd say the FM is entirely capable of replacing it and is better at doing the positive things gov does and less harmful than everything else the gov does.

You can either argue for a market anarchy, or concede to a limited government to take care of the things that most people will scoff at the idea of the market taking care our, (police services, military, etc) and have the market take care of the rest.

Of course, when talking to non-libertarians, I usually stick to some form of limited government, i.e. the constitution, it's usually only within libertarian circles when there can be serious discussions like poly-centric legal systems and things like this. (https://mises.org/journals/jls/3_2/3_2_3.pdf)
You know pretty well your constitution; I don't. So I can't use that as an argument when talking to people here (in my Country).

I know that FM can do a better job than the government. And where "I'm educating myself" show me some good arguments as to why. Yet I'm still absorbing the ideas. Currently I'm reading Bastiat and I'm just in awe of the genius this guy was.  :hefdaddy I'm just starting my path. I'm sure the answers will be much clearer in the future.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on June 02, 2009, 12:35:40 AM
you're not going far enough or you're making concessions when you shouldn't and going too far. 


Are you a Nietzschian? 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on June 02, 2009, 07:15:46 PM
you're not going far enough or you're making concessions when you shouldn't and going too far. 


Are you a Nietzschian? 

? Explain. What I meant was that you have to have some common assumptions to frame a successful argument. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on June 02, 2009, 07:41:20 PM
you're not going far enough or you're making concessions when you shouldn't and going too far. 


Are you a Nietzschian? 

? Explain. What I meant was that you have to have some common assumptions to frame a successful argument. 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Friedrich_Nietzsche

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on June 02, 2009, 09:29:19 PM
Math Riddle:

What speed in miles per hour is equal to the number of minutes it takes to go exactly one mile at said speed?

Hint below, so don't scroll down if you don't want help.







































It's a speed most people can jog at.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on June 02, 2009, 09:39:19 PM
Use the Metric system!  >:(
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on June 02, 2009, 09:45:42 PM
7.75 mph

edit: square root of sixty to be mathematically exact.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on June 02, 2009, 10:01:02 PM
7.75 mph

edit: square root of sixty to be mathematically exact.

I started jogging and was playing around with my times for distance and noticed the mph was damn near the minutes per mile. 

If you go X miles in Y minutes, then to get the mph you go X*60/Y, and to get the minutes per mile you just take Y/X, so to set them equal take X/Y as a ratio of Z and it's 60/Z = Z

Which of course is sqrt(60). 

Which of course has a negative solution... hey, have you read anything about any theoretical meaning to the concept of negative speed other than going in the opposite direction?  I don't recall reading anything.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on June 02, 2009, 10:09:03 PM
Which of course has a negative solution... hey, have you read anything about any theoretical meaning to the concept of negative speed other than going in the opposite direction?  I don't recall reading anything.

From a techincal perspective speed cannot have a negative value, only velocity can, because speed is simply a magnitude, while velocity is a vector - a magnitude with corresponding direction. But AFAIK, there's no other meaning behind a negative velocity other than the opposite direction.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on June 02, 2009, 11:11:27 PM
Which of course has a negative solution... hey, have you read anything about any theoretical meaning to the concept of negative speed other than going in the opposite direction?  I don't recall reading anything.

From a technical perspective speed cannot have a negative value, only velocity can, because speed is simply a magnitude, while velocity is a vector - a magnitude with corresponding direction. But AFAIK, there's no other meaning behind a negative velocity other than the opposite direction.

Well yeah, I knew that, but then I thought about the possibility of traveling away from all points in space simultaneously, (a.k.a. tangent), most likely on another spatial direction. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on June 02, 2009, 11:22:49 PM
Which of course has a negative solution... hey, have you read anything about any theoretical meaning to the concept of negative speed other than going in the opposite direction?  I don't recall reading anything.

From a technical perspective speed cannot have a negative value, only velocity can, because speed is simply a magnitude, while velocity is a vector - a magnitude with corresponding direction. But AFAIK, there's no other meaning behind a negative velocity other than the opposite direction.

Well yeah, I knew that, but then I thought about the possibility of traveling away from all points in space simultaneously, (a.k.a. tangent), most likely on another spatial direction. 

Well it would have to be moving in a spatial frame otherwise you still don't have any velocity/speed.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on June 02, 2009, 11:33:29 PM
Which of course has a negative solution... hey, have you read anything about any theoretical meaning to the concept of negative speed other than going in the opposite direction?  I don't recall reading anything.

From a technical perspective speed cannot have a negative value, only velocity can, because speed is simply a magnitude, while velocity is a vector - a magnitude with corresponding direction. But AFAIK, there's no other meaning behind a negative velocity other than the opposite direction.

Well yeah, I knew that, but then I thought about the possibility of traveling away from all points in space simultaneously, (a.k.a. tangent), most likely on another spatial direction. 

Well it would have to be moving in a spatial frame otherwise you still don't have any velocity/speed.

Spatial, but not up/down, left/right or forward/back, so I suppose moving along a 4th dimension could be considered negative velocity/speed.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on June 02, 2009, 11:38:16 PM
Which of course has a negative solution... hey, have you read anything about any theoretical meaning to the concept of negative speed other than going in the opposite direction?  I don't recall reading anything.

From a technical perspective speed cannot have a negative value, only velocity can, because speed is simply a magnitude, while velocity is a vector - a magnitude with corresponding direction. But AFAIK, there's no other meaning behind a negative velocity other than the opposite direction.

Well yeah, I knew that, but then I thought about the possibility of traveling away from all points in space simultaneously, (a.k.a. tangent), most likely on another spatial direction.  

Well it would have to be moving in a spatial frame otherwise you still don't have any velocity/speed.

Spatial, but not up/down, left/right or forward/back, so I suppose moving along a 4th dimension could be considered negative velocity/speed.

Velocity would still be negative under the same rules, and speed could still never be negative. You can do the math (even if it's impossible to truly comprehend what it says).
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on June 02, 2009, 11:40:48 PM
The problem with this is that its totally relative, based on what you're measuring the velocity against. Negative velocity has no inherent meaning, because velocity has no inherent meaning in the physical world besides what you apply it towards - it can be just one dimension, it can be three, it can be whatever, as long as you have distance/time.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on June 03, 2009, 12:55:10 AM
The problem with this is that its totally relative, based on what you're measuring the velocity against. Negative velocity has no inherent meaning, because velocity has no inherent meaning in the physical world besides what you apply it towards - it can be just one dimension, it can be three, it can be whatever, as long as you have distance/time.

Well that's what it comes down to, can you have negative distance or negative time? Assuming a cohesive flow of time, no negative time.  Negative distance is what I was aiming for.  And yes, it's all entirely arbitrary, I understand that, we could call say an electron carries a positive charge and rewrite all the books. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: William Wallace on June 03, 2009, 12:59:42 AM
I just started writing for this website (https://www.examiner.com/x-12638-El-Dorado-County-Conservative-Examiner). If you like conversing with me here, you may like reading and commenting on my articles. Check it out and subscribe.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on June 03, 2009, 09:41:30 AM
WTF happened here? A normal discussion about physics?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on June 03, 2009, 03:47:09 PM
Gone Fishin!
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: William Wallace on June 04, 2009, 05:36:15 PM
The view is the crappiest show in the world:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kB3cC87uPmw
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: millahh on June 09, 2009, 10:46:11 AM
Alrighty kids, there's a new sherriff in town!   :xbones

 :(
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: bosk1 on June 09, 2009, 10:49:47 AM
I'm not sure why, but the combination of those two smileys make me laugh and is easily the third funniest thing I've seen this morning (behind the Amazon reviews thread and the new KISS Mr. Potatohead collector's edition).
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on June 09, 2009, 12:19:27 PM
Congrats to millahhh

:clap:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on June 09, 2009, 12:42:28 PM
Pedantic Bastard...

:neverusethis:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: millahh on June 09, 2009, 01:50:15 PM
Not used to the extra buttons, or seeing my name at the top of the forum....
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MetalMike06 on June 10, 2009, 11:56:10 PM
Ugh, so I was taking a nap upstairs, and I awaken to Sean Hannity blaring on the TV downstairs. Damn it, Dad!
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AndyDT on June 11, 2009, 04:04:19 AM
Has Bosk bosked his hands of P/R?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: millahh on June 11, 2009, 07:35:36 AM
Has Bosk bosked his hands of P/R?

Not really...it's more that I've been deputized.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on June 11, 2009, 03:23:23 PM
Has Bosk bosked his hands of P/R?

Not really...it's more that I've been deputized.
What I want to know is if Bosk goes native and flips out in one these religious themed threads, do you get to ban him?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on June 11, 2009, 03:50:45 PM
Has Bosk bosked his hands of P/R?

Not really...it's more that I've been deputized.
What I want to know is if Bosk goes native and flips out in one these religious themed threads, do you get to ban him?
That would end up in a paradox.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: millahh on June 11, 2009, 08:20:40 PM
Has Bosk bosked his hands of P/R?

Not really...it's more that I've been deputized.
What I want to know is if Bosk goes native and flips out in one these religious themed threads, do you get to ban him?

I have that power, yes.  Although more likely, he'd ban himself (which he's done a couple of times)...
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on June 11, 2009, 08:22:14 PM
he'd ban himself

Then who unbans the ban set by the admin on the admi-

*head asplodes*
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: millahh on June 11, 2009, 08:32:35 PM
he'd ban himself

Then who unbans the ban set by the admin on the admi-

*head asplodes*

The forum would actually collapse into a singularity.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on June 12, 2009, 01:38:20 AM
he'd ban himself

Then who unbans the ban set by the admin on the admi-

*head asplodes*

The forum would actually collapse into a singularity.

Well in that case..

Bosk, please ban yourself.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on June 21, 2009, 11:34:19 PM
Ugh, so I was taking a nap upstairs, and I awaken to Sean Hannity blaring on the TV downstairs. Damn it, Dad!

I feel for you man.

Hey, I'm back, btw.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AndyDT on June 22, 2009, 02:32:16 AM
Jobe.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on June 22, 2009, 07:48:35 AM
Hey, I'm back, btw.
I was starting to wonder if the fish had found a way to take you out first. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on June 22, 2009, 03:57:01 PM
Jobe.

AndyDT.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AndyDT on June 22, 2009, 04:10:04 PM
Jobe.

AndyDT.

Looking forward to some quality big gubmint posts.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on June 22, 2009, 04:35:11 PM
Ugh, so I was taking a nap upstairs, and I awaken to Sean Hannity blaring on the TV downstairs. Damn it, Dad!

I feel for you man.

Hey, I'm back, btw.
Welcome back! Buy "Black Clouds & Silver Linings" btw. Great record!
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on June 26, 2009, 01:55:14 PM
(https://d.yimg.com/a/p/umedia/20090619/cp.b55277f975d9a333b9b23192cc57183d.gif)

(https://d.yimg.com/a/p/umedia/20090613/cp.459a5ebe254003ddc916ff273ffa262d.gif)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on June 27, 2009, 04:25:47 PM
(https://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs102.snc1/5012_93115782947_20452027947_1920849_1083728_n.jpg)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on June 27, 2009, 11:47:30 PM
HAHAHAHA.

I'm a fanboy but I find criticism of Obongo funny as hell.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on June 28, 2009, 03:32:26 PM
Context: During the republican primaries when Rudy, Romney and McCain were the "front" runners.





















(https://anarchyinyourhead.com/comics/2007-12-04-republican_turducken.png)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on June 28, 2009, 04:31:41 PM
(https://anarchyinyourhead.com/comics/2008-08-27-passing_the_buck.png)

(https://anarchyinyourhead.com/comics/2008-10-15-you_get_a_sticker.png)
(https://anarchyinyourhead.com/comics/2008-10-22-bubble_chat1.png)
(https://anarchyinyourhead.com/comics/2008-11-12_obama_messiah.png)
(https://anarchyinyourhead.com/comics/2009-02-27-buckle_up.png)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on June 28, 2009, 07:07:09 PM
(https://neatorama.cachefly.net/images/2007-06/no-exit-libertarianism-anarchy-for-rich-people.GIF)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on June 28, 2009, 07:12:26 PM
Or rather, libertarian is what some anarchists* claim to be while talking to statists until they become libertarian, at which point the facade is dropped.



*market anarchists
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on June 30, 2009, 07:55:25 PM
(https://anarchyinyourhead.com/comics/2007-11-18-bush_on_the_john.png)

This one took me a while to get.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on June 30, 2009, 10:15:05 PM
 :rollin
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on July 07, 2009, 09:26:04 PM
Quote from: Forward email I received
Memo - To All Employees

As the CFO of this business that employs 140 people, I have resigned myself to the fact that Barack Obama is our new President and that our taxes and government fees will increase in a BIG way.

To compensate for these increases, I figure that our clients will have to see an increase in our fees to them of about 8%, but since we cannot increase our fees right now due to the dismal state of our        economy, we will have to lay off six of our employees instead.

This has really been eating at me for a while, as we believe we are family here and I didn't know how to choose who will have to go. So, this is what I did.. I strolled through our parking lot and found 8 Obama bumper stickers on our employees' cars and have decided these folks will be the first to be laid off. I can't think of a more fair way to approach this problem. These folks wanted change; I'm giving it to them.

  Sincerely, The Boss
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on July 07, 2009, 09:27:36 PM
Way to fail at management.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on July 07, 2009, 09:42:48 PM
Way to fail at management.
You're talking about Obama, right? Because you're right.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on July 07, 2009, 09:45:41 PM
Way to fail at management.
You're talking about Obama, right? Because you're right.

Sigz, I think it's a joke.  You'd soooo get sued if you publicly did this. (Not that some Boss's didn't)

Emindead, hmm, the president as a manager?  That the country looks to the president as a manager is a large part of the problem in the first place.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on July 07, 2009, 09:49:52 PM
Way to blow the cover, Jobe. We could've had fun with Sigz!

Regarding management: Huh, that's the deal here. Our president is the image on how the country should be managed term by term. Why the hell do we need a Constitution if it's gonna be amended when he wants it? Blind Faith. What a shame.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on July 07, 2009, 09:54:14 PM
Any boss who'd make such silly assumptions based on nothing but party association is:
A:  So incompetent that the business would fail anyway.
B:  Such a stunning asshole that the Obama supporters would be happy to leave.
C.  Get shot 7 times by the gun toting Republican asshats that didn't get laid off as soon as A happens and they realize B. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on July 09, 2009, 10:21:27 PM
Quote
After long consideration, COMMENTARY’s editors have decided to end the policy of publishing comments. (https://www.commentarymagazine.com/blogs/index.php/jpodhoretz/72711)



wat
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on July 09, 2009, 10:22:43 PM
wat

 :lol That was my first thought before I even read this.

Anyways, I'm leaving this board for a while, I'll still read it, but I've gotten rather sick of arguing the same two things over an over again, just with different examples.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on July 10, 2009, 07:58:13 AM
What are you talking about? You haven't discussed anything, Sigz.

All you say is: "No." "Lol". "Now wait a minute, man". The only thing we know is that you are socialist, but as far as defending your position with clear arguments, positions, support by other authors you pretty much aren't saying anything.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on July 10, 2009, 09:43:31 AM
What are you talking about? You haven't discussed anything, Sigz.

All you say is: "No." "Lol". "Now wait a minute, man". The only thing we know is that you are socialist, but as far as defending your position with clear arguments, positions, support by other authors you pretty much aren't saying anything.


You just proved his point perfectly. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: millahh on July 10, 2009, 09:58:00 AM

Anyways, I'm leaving this board for a while, I'll still read it, but I've gotten rather sick of arguing the same two things over an over again, just with different examples.

Be careful about saying things like that...I said almost the eaxcat thing a few months ago, and now I'm the mod here!
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on July 10, 2009, 10:16:53 AM
What are you talking about? You haven't discussed anything, Sigz.

All you say is: "No." "Lol". "Now wait a minute, man". The only thing we know is that you are socialist, but as far as defending your position with clear arguments, positions, support by other authors you pretty much aren't saying anything.


You just proved his point perfectly. 
I see what you did there, but I fail to see why.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on July 10, 2009, 05:03:32 PM
What are you talking about? You haven't discussed anything, Sigz.

All you say is: "No." "Lol". "Now wait a minute, man". The only thing we know is that you are socialist, but as far as defending your position with clear arguments, positions, support by other authors you pretty much aren't saying anything.


The very fact that you call me socialist shows that either a) you see political beliefs as a total binary choice, or b) just pigeonhole your opponents into one group so you can throw the same canned arguments at them. I'm guessing it's a combination of the two, but either way it's exactly this kind of stuff that's made me lose interest in posting here.

Be careful about saying things like that...I said almost the eaxcat thing a few months ago, and now I'm the mod here!

 :omg: WHAT HAVE I DONE!?!?!?!
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on July 10, 2009, 05:18:38 PM
What are you talking about? You haven't discussed anything, Sigz.

All you say is: "No." "Lol". "Now wait a minute, man". The only thing we know is that you are socialist, but as far as defending your position with clear arguments, positions, support by other authors you pretty much aren't saying anything.


The very fact that you call me socialist shows that either a) you see political beliefs as a total binary choice, or b) just pigeonhole your opponents into one group so you can throw the same canned arguments at them. I'm guessing it's a combination of the two, but either way it's exactly this kind of stuff that's made me lose interest in posting here.
Well, well, well. We have a rebel within our selves, everybody. He doesn't likes to be labelled. AND he doesn't likes to say anything about himself because we, the plebs, have no possible insight to his brilliant mind of abstraction and superiority. He cannot waste another second with us, the vague minds that cannot discuss something worth for his brains.

Never say never, my friend.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on July 10, 2009, 05:20:19 PM
(https://jamie-online.com/random-jamz/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/facepalm.jpg)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on July 10, 2009, 05:57:52 PM
exactly
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on July 10, 2009, 06:00:14 PM
Dude, if you seriously think I'm stopping from posting out of some sense of intellectual superiority, then I don't what else there is to say. I'm simply sick of every thread (besides Andy's) coming down to either "the government is good/bad" or "the bible is right/wrong". Those two things have become the Kevin Moore of P/R.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on July 10, 2009, 06:19:14 PM
Then post something different! Start a thread about philosophy or whatever. I'm sure many will be glad to jump aboard.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: chknptpie on July 10, 2009, 06:20:37 PM
How many random threads does this forum need?! lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on July 10, 2009, 06:21:33 PM
What are you talking about? You haven't discussed anything, Sigz.

All you say is: "No." "Lol". "Now wait a minute, man". The only thing we know is that you are socialist, but as far as defending your position with clear arguments, positions, support by other authors you pretty much aren't saying anything.


The very fact that you call me socialist shows that either a) you see political beliefs as a total binary choice, or b) just pigeonhole your opponents into one group so you can throw the same canned arguments at them. I'm guessing it's a combination of the two, but either way it's exactly this kind of stuff that's made me lose interest in posting here.
Well, well, well. We have a rebel within our selves, everybody. He doesn't likes to be labelled. AND he doesn't likes to say anything about himself because we, the plebs, have no possible insight to his brilliant mind of abstraction and superiority. He cannot waste another second with us, the vague minds that cannot discuss something worth for his brains.

Never say never, my friend.

(https://jamie-online.com/random-jamz/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/facepalm.jpg)



Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on July 10, 2009, 06:50:40 PM
How many random threads does this forum need?! lol

143.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on July 10, 2009, 07:29:52 PM
Hey if anyone is interested in listening to some good free market discussions, https://freetalklive.com/

LIVE 6 Days a Week!
Mon-Sat: 7pm-10pm Eastern Time

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on July 11, 2009, 02:22:23 PM
John Holdren, Obama's Science Czar, says: Forced abortions and mass sterilization needed to save the planet (https://zombietime.com/john_holdren/)

 :metal
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on July 11, 2009, 02:24:27 PM
In 1977.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on July 11, 2009, 02:32:09 PM
There is nothing new under the sun though.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on July 11, 2009, 03:19:41 PM
There is nothing new under the sun though.

Sure there is, especially from his perspective, which is also changing. I can't imagine someone being the same after 33 years; I can't imagine someone being the same after 1 year.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on July 11, 2009, 03:55:45 PM
Perhaps I should have written that in sarcasm green just to make clear I was joking.  :smiley:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on July 11, 2009, 05:38:53 PM
CAn never go wrong with sarcasm green.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on July 12, 2009, 09:47:10 PM
(https://imgur.com/7dGuq.jpg)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: millahh on July 13, 2009, 03:24:30 PM
Steroids and moderating:  it's a winning combination!
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on July 14, 2009, 02:32:42 AM
So libertarians, one of your arguments against things like the FDA is the amount of money it wastes, "it's a huge waste of taxpayer money!" That's a common rallying cry against every sort of governmental administration. But the FDA's annual budget is ~$3 billion, and that's after Obama raised it. That's $10 a person in this country, little less, a year. I honestly doubt people are going to notice $10 less a year, or hell $20 less a year, for the FDA when it can accomplish something important if done properly.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on July 14, 2009, 02:25:41 PM
(https://imgur.com/7dGuq.jpg)
For someone who claims to not like George Carlin, you sure seem to reference his material a lot. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on July 14, 2009, 03:29:37 PM
Religious Carlin: I'll pass.
Political Carlin: Damn interesting.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on July 14, 2009, 03:58:13 PM
I grew to appreciate Carlin as I became older, though like Emindead will never appreciate his views on religion.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on July 14, 2009, 04:05:05 PM
May Joe Pesci have mercy on your souls. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on July 15, 2009, 04:10:48 PM
If you need a laugh watch penn and teller rip up new age medicine.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vSpPdp3_BQE
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on July 15, 2009, 05:21:05 PM
You know, the first one has nudity in the first scene. So take it out.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on July 15, 2009, 06:15:13 PM
edited
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on July 15, 2009, 07:04:33 PM
edited
:lol No. It's not allowed here. Period.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on July 15, 2009, 08:05:08 PM
Feel free to report it to a moderator, but I personally don't classify breasts as explicit nudity especially now that it is tagged with my equivalent of an NSFW sign.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on July 15, 2009, 08:14:53 PM
but I personally don't classify breasts as explicit nudity especially now that it is tagged with my equivalent of an NSFW sign.
That's cool. But there are rules here that aren't blend freely to your appeal.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: millahh on July 15, 2009, 08:20:22 PM
Feel free to report it to a moderator, but I personally don't classify breasts as explicit nudity especially now that it is tagged with my equivalent of an NSFW sign.

You should listen to em...he's a sharp kid.

Refer to rule #1.  Like it or not, agree with the US's phobia of the human body or not, exposed breasts count.  I can see where you're coming from, so no warning or anything, but please keep this in mind.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on July 15, 2009, 08:41:30 PM
Quote
That's cool. But there are rules here that aren't blend freely to your appeal.

No I meant that as per #1 if its tagged as nsfw and not explicit which I dont think breasts are, that it was ok. But as per the rules its up to the mod.

and millahh you removed both the clip with the nudity and the youtube video, but the youtube video didnt have any nudity.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: millahh on July 15, 2009, 08:45:52 PM
Quote
That's cool. But there are rules here that aren't blend freely to your appeal.

No I meant that as per #1 if its tagged as nsfw and not explicit which I dont think breasts are, that it was ok. But as per the rules its up to the mod.

and millahh you removed both the clip with the nudity and the youtube video, but the youtube video didnt have any nudity.



I only removed the first one.  Nick, in a true display of fail, removed the second.  Go ahead & repost the non-nipple one.

As a rule of thumb, nipples = no-no.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nick on July 15, 2009, 08:51:26 PM
Yeah, my bad. :lol

Got the report, saw the argument with you and Em on the page and figured that was the offending link, prior to turning the page and seeing Millahh's post.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on July 15, 2009, 09:28:46 PM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9xTOqIuAv6E
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: ariich on July 16, 2009, 12:53:41 AM
lol Nickfail
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on July 16, 2009, 02:57:24 PM
https://www.colbertnation.com/the-colbert-report-videos/238643/july-15-2009/douglas-rushkoff

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on July 16, 2009, 11:38:43 PM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DGeZQrpZbjI
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MetalMike06 on July 17, 2009, 02:31:06 AM
https://www.ronpaulsingles.com/


 :rollin
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on July 17, 2009, 08:29:15 AM
:lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on July 17, 2009, 11:30:06 AM
Oh dear.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on July 17, 2009, 01:08:27 PM
Regarding Goldman Sachs issue, this guy is incredible:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VSwWy4E6I04&feature=player_embedded
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZoQrYa_NKQQ&feature=player_embedded
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on July 17, 2009, 01:28:50 PM
Regarding Goldman Sachs issue, this guy is incredible:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VSwWy4E6I04&feature=player_embedded
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZoQrYa_NKQQ&feature=player_embedded

Max Keiser?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on July 17, 2009, 01:31:08 PM
Yeah.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on July 17, 2009, 01:46:50 PM
He seems half insane (not necessarily wrong), and in the end he's laying most of the blame upon the Corporate entity Goldman Sachs for having a silent coup in the American government. What charges he brings against the government are becuase of this take over, not against government qua government.

I'm all for limiting the power of businesses.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on July 17, 2009, 02:09:30 PM
I'm all for businesses being the furthest away possible from politics and government and vice-versa.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on July 17, 2009, 04:55:50 PM
https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/07/15/caller-reduces-glenn-beck_n_233846.html

......................
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on July 17, 2009, 05:08:05 PM
*Sigh*
He's an ass-hole.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on July 17, 2009, 05:11:59 PM
And dumb.



Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on July 17, 2009, 05:25:01 PM
He's not necessarily wrong, but he didn't offered a real answer or counterargument to why the caller was wrong. He just let himself drive by emotion. You can notice hos he's really new at Libertarianism. He knows the caller is wrong but he didn't had the patience, serenity nor the sufficient wisdom to give a rational answer. That's why he achieved the ass-hole position that easily.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on July 17, 2009, 05:30:38 PM
He's not necessarily wrong, but he didn't offered a real answer or counterargument to why the caller was wrong. He just let himself drive by emotion. You can notice hos he's really new at Libertarianism. He knows the caller is wrong but he didn't had the patience, serenity nor the sufficient wisdom to give a rational answer. That's why he achieved the ass-hole position that easily.

I would say you described pretty well what I would call "dumb." You can be dumb and "right," what makes someone intelligent is the reasons for their beliefs not the beliefs themselves.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on July 17, 2009, 05:49:31 PM
I agree. But he's an ass.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on July 17, 2009, 06:42:59 PM
https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/07/15/caller-reduces-glenn-beck_n_233846.html

......................

3:30 is classic. As emindead says, at least give some rational thought into your rebuttals against France/UK-style health administration if you honestly care that much.

Getting UHC passed here will be easier if we can paint this guy as one of its most vocal opponents.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on July 18, 2009, 10:19:48 AM
https://www.colbertnation.com/the-colbert-report-videos/238643/july-15-2009/douglas-rushkoff



https://jim.com/econ/chap03p1.html

The audience all getting cancer would NOT help the economy.

I like where he's going with the gold standard though.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on July 18, 2009, 12:56:12 PM
https://www.colbertnation.com/the-colbert-report-videos/238643/july-15-2009/douglas-rushkoff



https://jim.com/econ/chap03p1.html

The audience all getting cancer would NOT help the economy.

I like where he's going with the gold standard though.

The guy seems to split the difference between Liberals and Libertarians on this board.

And I think his poin about cancer was pretty much yours. Immediately speaking, the economy would probably get a good boost from people getting cancer. Any savings people have are going to start going away, and more money is going to be spent. It will appear good on the stock market and investors will think something good is coming. It's attacking the current business evaluation in our country; that is, it's trying to re-evaulating what makes something good for the economy. Right now, it's pure and simply measured by profits.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on July 18, 2009, 06:44:12 PM
If you want to ask Ron Paul a question, call free talk live NOW. He's on for another hour.

https://freetalklive.com/

EDIT: That part is over.  Though still check FTL out, I recommend it.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on July 18, 2009, 07:35:54 PM
Thanks!
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on July 20, 2009, 07:45:22 PM
Hey Em.  Didn't want to bring this up in the Apollo thread in the GD board, but can you recognize that there are things that can improve humanity that the private sector won't do on it's own?  Somethings should transcend profit margins.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on July 20, 2009, 08:05:05 PM
Hey Em.  Didn't want to bring this up in the Apollo thread in the GD board, but can you recognize that there are things that can improve humanity that the private sector won't do on it's own?  Somethings should transcend profit margins.

Where you watching that interview with the aaaaaaaaaastronaut last night?

BTW, private space flight is fast surpassing NASA crap.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on July 20, 2009, 08:10:33 PM
Hey Em.  Didn't want to bring this up in the Apollo thread in the GD board, but can you recognize that there are things that can improve humanity that the private sector won't do on it's own?  Somethings should transcend profit margins.

Where you watching that interview with the aaaaaaaaaastronaut last night?

BTW, private space flight is fast surpassing NASA crap.
Don't have TV, so no on the interview.

As for NASA vs. everybody else?  Irrelevant.  Not the question I asked. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on July 20, 2009, 09:03:37 PM
I was in a McD when it was on... really bad channel, had some dumbass saying, "and that's why I really hate the libertarian party," talking about healthcare, right after he totalllllly misrepresented libertarian views.

Anyway, not everything is driven by profits, like... charities! Which include scientific endeavors, or things done for pure knowledge or truth! Seriously, open your eyes man, many, many unprofitable things are done right now in the private sector.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on July 20, 2009, 09:04:11 PM
Hey Em.  Didn't want to bring this up in the Apollo thread in the GD board, but can you recognize that there are things that can improve humanity that the private sector won't do on it's own?  Somethings should transcend profit margins.
I don't know. Sometimes we say we advance too fast, sometimes we say we're moving too slow. We never seem to know why. We sometimes think that the greater good is the option, and we must pursuit quickly and at all costs. I happen not to agree with. I've quoted this before, but I never get tired of repeating what Mary Shelley wrote:

A human being in perfection ought always to preserve a calm and peaceful mind, and never to allow passion or a transitory desire to disturb his tranquillity. I do not think that the pursuit of knowledge is an exception to this rule. If the study to which you apply yourself has a tendency to weaken your affections, and to destroy your taste for those simple pleasures in which no alloy can possibly mix, then that study is certainly unlawful, that is to say, not befitting the human mind. If this rule were always observed; if no man allowed any pursuit whatsoever to interfere with the tranquillity of his domestic affections, Greece had not been enslaved; Caesar would have spared his country; America would have been discovered more gradually; and the empires of Mexico and Peru had not been destroyed.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on July 21, 2009, 12:12:22 AM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9V1nmn2zRMc

https://farm4.static.flickr.com/3658/3511591165_031ba41138.jpg
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on July 21, 2009, 03:38:21 AM
Quote
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9V1nmn2zRMc

https://farm4.static.flickr.com/3658/3511591165_031ba41138.jpg

brilliant
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: William Wallace on July 22, 2009, 01:43:32 PM
(https://www.openmarket.org/wp-content/themes/gazette/thumb.php?src=https://www.openmarket.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/obamachange.jpg&h=200&w=300&zc=1&q=95)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on July 22, 2009, 03:55:45 PM
https://cnnwire.blogs.cnn.com/2009/07/22/intelligence-chief-defends-delay-in-interrogation-policy-review/

Change.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: William Wallace on July 22, 2009, 05:41:01 PM
https://cnnwire.blogs.cnn.com/2009/07/22/intelligence-chief-defends-delay-in-interrogation-policy-review/

Change.
*Jerks off
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on July 23, 2009, 10:52:55 PM
Can someone explain to me what the hell is wrong with Chávez?

Colombia has just signed a "cooperation" with the USA where they will bring the latest technology in military airplanes (Colombia is also receiving atm some Israelis Jet planes) so they can fight the guerilla and shut down their drug traffic (so they don't get more resources and also intercept the guerilla leaders phones and radios in real time and blast those fuckers). But Chávez went crazy saying that what we just agreed to do with the Americans is an "unfriendly" action. So he calls for a total revision of our diplomatic relationships and is going to stop buying our products. He also just confirmed that he's now (as in tonight) buying some tanks from from Russia to make the borders more secure because we and the US Military are going to invade him or facilitate the US entry to Venezuela in a future and near attack or invasion. Apparently you (and us) want his oil.

They guy is just crazy. He's saying that we are now the new Israel of America! Fuck him!
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on July 24, 2009, 08:04:57 AM
Hey Reapsta.  What's your problem with Miranda vs. Arizona?  I can think of a couple of possible reasons, but neither of them are very good, honestly. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on July 24, 2009, 01:45:06 PM
Can someone explain to me what the hell is wrong with Chávez?

Colombia has just signed a "cooperation" with the USA where they will bring the latest technology in military airplanes (Colombia is also receiving atm some Israelis Jet planes) so they can fight the guerilla and shut down their drug traffic (so they don't get more resources and also intercept the guerilla leaders phones and radios in real time and blast those fuckers). But Chávez went crazy saying that what we just agreed to do with the Americans is an "unfriendly" action. So he calls for a total revision of our diplomatic relationships and is going to stop buying our products. He also just confirmed that he's now (as in tonight) buying some tanks from from Russia to make the borders more secure because we and the US Military are going to invade him or facilitate the US entry to Venezuela in a future and near attack or invasion. Apparently you (and us) want his oil.

They guy is just crazy. He's saying that we are now the new Israel of America! Fuck him!
Truth be told, he's right in a few of those areas.  Helping people fight guerrillas is precisely how we've fucked up huge chunks of the world.  Helping you guys kill drug dealers is a pretty shitty move, as well.  We do want his oil.  We have a long standing history of climbing into bed with questionable people (no offense) because we have issues with their neighbors.  So his comparison of you guys to Israel is somewhat valid.  And lastly, I figure that dude probably already had the biggest collection of T-72s in this hemisphere, along with a lot of other nice but slightly outdated Soviet era hardware.

On a more interpersonal level, he's doing what a lot of leaders of fast-growing medium size countries do.  He's bolstering himself by being a thorn in our side.  It's a time honored tradition that usually works pretty well.  What are we going to do, liberate them?  Didn't work for Hussein, but nobody expected Bush to be the simpleminded lunatic that he was.  For the most part, it's just talking big to someone you know is out of range.

Reminds me of this.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QukmIsFtwy0
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on July 24, 2009, 02:11:33 PM
I agree that the USA should give us no help (though I think I'm the only guy around here saying that). To be fair he does think that the CIA orchestrated that Coup against him in 2002 (the CIA has a bad reputation doing that).

What surprises me is that we were from 1988-1998 the most hated country by you guys and when Pastrana came into presidency, and all the help he got from Clinton, we became your new best friend all of a sudden.

I think the problem is that we (Colombia) want nothing to do with Chávez and Venezuela other than commercial affairs (like with any other country). We just want to solve our internal crisis, but Chávez has been helping our guerrilla, he is giving them weapons and shelter. He has meddled in Colombia's internal affairs (and I say that with the most integral objectivity, even though I'm Colombian). He has expressed that he wants to annex Colombia and Venezuela (and Ecuador) again, just like Simón Bolivar (our Libertador) always wanted and recreate La Gran Colombia. He has in the Venezuelan Constitution "arguments" that he can reclaim La Guajira (the department at the North of Colombia) and part of where the River Orinoco ends in Colombia. I think we have more justification to go into war with Chávez than him with us.

Now, if you say that Chávez has a problem with the USA, of course he has! That doesn't mean we're going to get in the way (or who knows, but I frankly believe we won't).

And you are right, the USA should gtfo out of the South ASAP and let ourselves run our own business once and for all.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: ReaPsTA on July 24, 2009, 07:49:18 PM
Hey Reapsta.  What's your problem with Miranda vs. Arizona?  I can think of a couple of possible reasons, but neither of them are very good, honestly. 

Just to quote the Miranda warning for reference:

Quote
You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to an attorney present during questioning. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed for you. Do you understand these rights?

That's absolutely true. What I think is ridiculous is how it's the responsibility of the police to inform you. To me, the responsibility is on the citizen to know it beforehand. To me, there's no good reason testimony should be inadmissible if the cops don't read you your Miranda rights. Your fault for not understanding them.

That said, cops should be informing people of their Miranda rights anyway. I don't think the decision is stupid in terms of the practical effects. I'm all for people knowing their rights when the cops are trying to dick them around. I just think it sets bad precedent in two ways. Like I already said, we need to keep consistent on the idea of citizens understanding the law for themselves,* and I really don't like when the Supreme Court makes up rights out of thin air.

*I recognize this is practically almost impossible, which is a problem of the law itself.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on July 24, 2009, 09:29:56 PM
Yup, those would be the two.  I was gonna give you the spiel about how Americans are stupid and how excluding unlawfully obtained evidence helps to protect our rights, but you already know all that. 

Here's an angle you might not have considered, though.  I've been detained by the Man on several occasions.  As a non-career criminal it's pretty harrowing.  It takes a very level head to tell a cop "fuck you, I want my lawyer."  I'm here to tell you that most people aren't going to be thinking fifth amendment while they're on the defensive from aggressive assholes with guns.  I suspect there are a lot of highly intelligent people who know damn well their constitutional rights, to whom it just doesn't click in their heads until the obligatory speech. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on July 28, 2009, 06:19:12 PM
Lol. Chávez has terminated the relations between Colombia and Venezuela because of the US Bases here and the recent problem with the rocket launchers (Sweden sold them to Venezuela in the 90s and on Saturday we bombed a FARC camp and found the rocket launchers there). Sweden demanded an explication and they said "we will explain when the time is right". lol. Bunch of ass-holes. And an hour ago Chávez said he couldn't take it any more. So he called his ambassador here in Bogotá and warned: "Any other declaration against Venezuela in behalf of the Colombian government, we expropriate all the Colombian industries here."

"When goods don't cross borders, soldiers will." - Fredric Bastiat

Besides a crooked bastard, he's also a thief! Bring it on, bastard!
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on July 28, 2009, 11:42:39 PM
Justice, or Justice?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pZfHZtI_dls&NR=1
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on July 29, 2009, 08:27:42 AM
Justice, or Justice?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pZfHZtI_dls&NR=1
No audio up here, but I'm pretty sure I get the drift of it.

It probably was just and absolutely understandable.  However, no cops who were involved in that would be working for my department anymore if I were in charge.  Whether the guy deserved it or not, it wasn't the copper's place to do it.  Furthermore, they're going to do that before a court appearance?  Not only do the cops lack the temperament to be police, they appear to lack common sense as well. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on July 29, 2009, 12:47:48 PM
Justice, or Justice?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pZfHZtI_dls&NR=1
No audio up here, but I'm pretty sure I get the drift of it.

It probably was just and absolutely understandable.  However, no cops who were involved in that would be working for my department anymore if I were in charge.  Whether the guy deserved it or not, it wasn't the copper's place to do it.  Furthermore, they're going to do that before a court appearance?  Not only do the cops lack the temperament to be police, they appear to lack common sense as well. 

This one, I mostly agree with you. It set's a bad standard, and I don't want vigilante cops taking justice into their hand. That's what the courts are for, and juries.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on July 29, 2009, 12:58:56 PM
If you didn't get the full story due to technical problems; He was being questioned for killing an old woman, on the way out of the place he grabbed a detectives gun and point blanked him in the face, dove out the third story window and was caught a few blocks away. The detective died so unofficially I suppose some of the cops beat the bejeesus out of him because that detective was probably a friend/brother in arms/whatever or something like that. FBI investigation didnt turn anything up, but I wouldn't doubt a couple of guys did it on the street or something completely random.

As for the courts thing, the guy was given his fair chance, he had dates schedules, lawyers, all that, and he grabs a gun and kills a guy on his way out of the police station.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on July 29, 2009, 01:06:19 PM
That sequence of events makes it a bit different.  I thought they kicked his ass right before his court appearance, and therefore, a long time after he offed Johnny.  If they did it right after the kaboom, then it was probably a resisting arrest kind of thing. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on July 29, 2009, 01:17:47 PM
Since we're talking about police brutality.

Watch it till the end: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8dPXjQHP_2M&NR=1
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on July 29, 2009, 01:43:08 PM
Uncalled for.

Or, called for.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on July 29, 2009, 02:08:29 PM
Since we're talking about police brutality.

Watch it till the end: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8dPXjQHP_2M&NR=1

I think if you kick/punch someone anywhere which could have potentially serious health side effects (like, say, kicking them in the head), you should lose your job. Hitting the guy a little should be considered part of the punishment for running from police.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on July 29, 2009, 03:03:14 PM
Since we're talking about police brutality.

Watch it till the end: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8dPXjQHP_2M&NR=1
Again, no sound up here.  So what were the ramifications?  Pretty damn funny, regardless. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on July 29, 2009, 10:21:56 PM
Long weekend, bb like... Tuesday or so.  Will post my thread about voluntaryism then or the next day.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on July 30, 2009, 01:44:09 PM
So what do you guys think of this?  :police:

https://www.freedomslighthouse.com/2009/07/dashcam-video-of-police-conspiring-to.html
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on July 30, 2009, 02:50:42 PM
I don't have audio, but based on the subtitles it's pretty easy to follow.  Isn't lying on a police report a felony?  For the third time in 24 hours, these cops are clearly too stupid to be police officers.  They were filming themselves.  "Dude, videotaping this crime spree is the greatest idea we've ever had!"

About 15 years ago I was at a bank at about 01:00 depositing a check in the ATM.  It was deserted so I just pulled up across the 3 closest parking spaces, jumped out and grabbed a deposit slip and went back to my car.  About 2 minutes later I here sirens.  Some moron thought I was robbing the place and called the cops.  "STEP OUT OF THE CAR WITH YOUR HANDS IN THE AIR!"  I show my ID, a deposit slip, they determine all is well and that's the end of it.  When I'm walking back to the ATM, the cop puts it in reverse, guns it, and slams right the fuck into a concrete pillar.  Buried the thing 18" into his trunk.  It was priceless.  After grabbing some food, I drove back by a half hour later and they're there with their supervisor measuring shit.  I loved it. Almost makes up for one or two of the times cops were assholes to me.  Frankly, they've got a long ways to go. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on July 30, 2009, 02:54:15 PM
 :lol That's awesome.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on July 30, 2009, 06:42:11 PM
So Dickhead drinks Bud Lite and Biden drinks near-beer.  Who are these people?  Our elected representatives continue to find new ways to disgust me.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MetalMike06 on July 30, 2009, 08:53:32 PM
Near-beer?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on July 30, 2009, 09:13:06 PM
Non-alcoholic beer I assume, since he's a non-drinker. All the shitty taste with no buzz! Hopefully he at least went for an import.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: ReaPsTA on July 30, 2009, 09:18:17 PM
So Dickhead drinks Bud Lite and Biden drinks near-beer.  Who are these people?  Our elected representatives continue to find new ways to disgust me.

Say what you will about Bush, but I don't imagine him making such catastrophic personal failings in his choice of alcoholic beverages.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on July 30, 2009, 09:54:55 PM
That's an (unintentionally?) ironic statement, given his well-documented struggle with alcoholism.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on July 31, 2009, 08:25:04 AM
So Dickhead drinks Bud Lite and Biden drinks near-beer.  Who are these people?  Our elected representatives continue to find new ways to disgust me.

Say what you will about Bush, but I don't imagine him making such catastrophic personal failings in his choice of alcoholic beverages.
Actually, I wanna say Bush drank Lone Star as his beer of choice.  I wouldn't rank it any lower than Dickhead's Bud Lite, but then I wouldn't call either of them beer.  When cameras were on him, he drank the same fake beer as Biden. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on July 31, 2009, 09:02:17 AM
What's with your Dickhead nickname for Obozo? Surely you can be a little more creative?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on July 31, 2009, 10:18:49 AM
What's with your Dickhead nickname for Obozo? Surely you can be a little more creative?
:sadpanda:
I really, really tried to come up with something better.  Dumbass was just so fitting for his predecessor, and I really wanted to come up with something as good.  What I came up with was Uncle Sambo, but I figured that might get me into trouble.  Besides, my contempt for the man has nothing whatsoever to do with his race, and I wouldn't want people to think otherwise.  Hell, he's whiter than I am as far as I'm concerned.  In casual conversation I had kept referring to him as "that dickhead in the White House," and as is so often the case, it just kind of defaulted into his nickname. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on July 31, 2009, 10:25:42 AM
I see.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on July 31, 2009, 12:53:31 PM
So Dickhead drinks Bud Lite and Biden drinks near-beer.  Who are these people?  Our elected representatives continue to find new ways to disgust me.

Wow, your cynicism is getting way out of hand with this post.

And I'm a cynic.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on July 31, 2009, 01:01:11 PM
I just think there's a lot you can tell about a person from what they drink. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on July 31, 2009, 01:53:53 PM
Well that's just stupid. Someone's taste buds is somehow supposed to tell you something about that person? The bumps on your head have as much credibility.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on July 31, 2009, 02:05:47 PM
Well that's just stupid. Someone's taste buds is somehow supposed to tell you something about that person? The bumps on your head have as much credibility.
You go to an upscale French restaurant with two other guys.  One orders Prawns, caesar salad, lobster bisque, rabbit with sweetbreads, and the Grand Marnier souffle.  The other guy orders fish sticks and mac & cheese from the kids menu.  Did that just tell you something about the two of them?

Edit:  It could tell you that the fist stick guy had giant juevos and ordered what he actually felt like eating, but that makes a pretty bold statement as well.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: ReaPsTA on July 31, 2009, 02:11:33 PM
Why would someone primarily drink Bud Light? (a) Undeveloped taste buds (b) Merely trying to get drunk (c) You have no interest in trying better, showing a lack of interest in the fineries of life we're offered (d) Brand Loyalty, which is chilling (e) Trying to pander to the American public. None of those reasons look good. Drinking fake beer is just so out there I can't even begin to comprehend it. Unless Biden is a non-drinker for some kind of moral or personal reason.

I don't consider myself a beer connoisseur, but I can at least drink a real beer (Yeungling) if I want.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on July 31, 2009, 02:20:14 PM
Maybe he didn't want to offend middle America by drinking a good beer. Hell, most non-east coasters probably think Yuengling is foreign.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on July 31, 2009, 02:31:29 PM
Fuck Yuengling.  I'm tired of hearing about it. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on July 31, 2009, 02:48:18 PM
Well that's just stupid. Someone's taste buds is somehow supposed to tell you something about that person? The bumps on your head have as much credibility.
You go to an upscale French restaurant with two other guys.  One orders Prawns, caesar salad, lobster bisque, rabbit with sweetbreads, and the Grand Marnier souffle.  The other guy orders fish sticks and mac & cheese from the kids menu.  Did that just tell you something about the two of them?

Edit:  It could tell you that the fist stick guy had giant juevos and ordered what he actually felt like eating, but that makes a pretty bold statement as well.

You not only compared an entire menu of items, but also likes and dislikes. You start to admit as much in your edit; but either way, if all you knew is what they ordered, you would most likely have no fucking clue as to what they're like. Sure, you can make a wild assumption, and probably will - but I'm going to guess you're also going to be wrong. There could mean many reasons for someone ordering what he did, and these still hardly say anything alone about the guy. Sure, if you're having dinner with the guy (meaning you're interacting with him constantly, talking with him, etc), this may have a role to play in your opinion of the guy. But that's becuase you then have a lot more information to draw upon and make a conclusion, and not some random piece of information that doesn't really mean much.

Seriously, this is like finding out Obama listens to Fall Out Boy and somehow saying this shows something about his character. Maybe he's not too keen on beer, like lots of people, and finds shit beers the most tolerable? Maybe it's reapsta's a), which means basically nothing. It's hardly something to object to (I really fail to see how this "doesn't look good." Holy shit, he hasn't developed a taste bud for beer? Have you developed the taste for growling music? How about cheese, caviar or fine wine? The list could keep going).


Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on July 31, 2009, 03:04:02 PM
So you're going to tell me that you wouldn't think any different of him if he wore a Jonas Brothers t-shirt or a "sold out" Score shirt?  Bullshit.  You would make assumptions and they'd probably be right.  We pass judgment on people all the time based on appearances.   

And for the record, I suspect it was Reapsta's A & E.  It's C that concerns me, though.  I'd really like to think we're represented by somebody with at least a modicum of intellectual curiosity. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on July 31, 2009, 03:11:34 PM
So you're going to tell me that you wouldn't think any different of him if he wore a Jonas Brothers t-shirt or a "sold out" Score shirt?  Bullshit.  You would make assumptions and they'd probably be right.  We pass judgment on people all the time based on appearances.   

And for the record, I suspect it was Reapsta's A & E.  It's C that concerns me, though.  I'd really like to think we're represented by somebody with at least a modicum of intellectual curiosity. 

I agree with you there, but we don't simply do it based upon what the person is wearing. How is the person walking, talking, moving, holding himself, behave, act, who is he with and why does he appear to be there? In other words, when we do so, we judge based upon the whole, the parts matter only in so much as they make up the whole. You can't simplify it down to one specific thing about the person and describe his entire whole. For one, that's a fallacy.

And if Obama was wearing either t-shirt, I would seriously not giving a fucking shit. People like music for many different reasons and they rarely do they have anything to do with personality, and they especially don't come close to being worthy of judgment. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on July 31, 2009, 05:30:25 PM
And at no point did I say that Obama sucks because he drinks Bud Lite.  He sucks, and he has poor taste in beer.  I brought the whole thing up because had he sat down with a cold, refreshing Sierra Nevada, I might have actually had a reason to like the guy.  Instead he gave me yet another reason to be disappointed in him. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on July 31, 2009, 06:00:01 PM
And at no point did I say that Obama sucks because he drinks Bud Lite.  He sucks, and he has poor taste in beer.  I brought the whole thing up because had he sat down with a cold, refreshing Sierra Nevada, I might have actually had a reason to like the guy.  Instead he gave me yet another reason to be disappointed in him. 

Seriously. You're still giving someone's choice in beer far too much importance. Their choice in beer "disgusts" you.

https://www.thedailyshow.com/full-episodes/239876/thu-july-30-2009-judd-apatow

You're like Fox and Friends (in the second segment). No matter what Obama does, it's going to be a misstep.

(by the way, I found it funny that Gates went with Red Stripe)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: ReaPsTA on July 31, 2009, 06:22:18 PM
Fuck Yuengling.  I'm tired of hearing about it. 

Don't you live in Texas? How does that work?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on July 31, 2009, 06:55:39 PM
And at no point did I say that Obama sucks because he drinks Bud Lite.  He sucks, and he has poor taste in beer.  I brought the whole thing up because had he sat down with a cold, refreshing Sierra Nevada, I might have actually had a reason to like the guy.  Instead he gave me yet another reason to be disappointed in him. 

Seriously. You're still giving someone's choice in beer far too much importance. Their choice in beer "disgusts" you.

https://www.thedailyshow.com/full-episodes/239876/thu-july-30-2009-judd-apatow

You're like Fox and Friends (in the second segment). No matter what Obama does, it's going to be a misstep.

(by the way, I found it funny that Gates went with Red Stripe)
I've defended my point and I stand by it.

I had read that Gates drank Sam Adams Lite.  Either way is a respectable choice, even though I don't much care for Sam Adams.

Fuck Yuengling.  I'm tired of hearing about it. 

Don't you live in Texas? How does that work?
Any time there's a forum thread about beer, everybody on the East Coast rants and raves about how it's the best beer in the world.  Might be, I wouldn't know.  But since they only sell to 5 states, it doesn't really matter.  I'd love to try it, but if they won't sell it to me, I'd just as soon never hear about it ever again.   

On the bright side, there are probably some great Colorado and California beers that you yanks don't get, so perhaps it evens out. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: chknptpie on July 31, 2009, 06:57:18 PM
I thought Gates had a Red Stripe? Or was that a joke on Colbert that I totally fell for? lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: ReaPsTA on August 01, 2009, 12:54:41 PM
Any time there's a forum thread about beer, everybody on the East Coast rants and raves about how it's the best beer in the world.  Might be, I wouldn't know.  But since they only sell to 5 states, it doesn't really matter.  I'd love to try it, but if they won't sell it to me, I'd just as soon never hear about it ever again.   

On the bright side, there are probably some great Colorado and California beers that you yanks don't get, so perhaps it evens out. 

There's no way to get it shipped over there somehow? I don't actually know, but wouldn't there be beer stores that specialize in importing from out of state?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: millahh on August 01, 2009, 12:58:52 PM
Any time there's a forum thread about beer, everybody on the East Coast rants and raves about how it's the best beer in the world.  Might be, I wouldn't know.  But since they only sell to 5 states, it doesn't really matter.  I'd love to try it, but if they won't sell it to me, I'd just as soon never hear about it ever again.   

On the bright side, there are probably some great Colorado and California beers that you yanks don't get, so perhaps it evens out. 

There's no way to get it shipped over there somehow? I don't actually know, but wouldn't there be beer stores that specialize in importing from out of state?

Yuengling is in that no-man's-land between micro-brew and macro-brew...it's not so small & indie that people everywhere view it as something special, and it's not so big to be able to get massive distribution.  By way of TX comparison, it seems like the same situation for Shiner Bock.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on August 01, 2009, 04:26:15 PM
It's actually illegal to bring it here; think Smokey and the Bandit.  The Yuengling folk seem to want it's distribution limited to a few states, and as such, it can't be imported outside of those states; or something like that.  There is actually a Navy PX down in Galveston that occasionally brings some in, but it doesn't do me any good. 

Interestingly, I did some research on it last night and most people outside of that area think it average at best.  Ratebeer.com has it in the 30th percentile.  Beer tends to enjoy significant regional loyalty.  Shiner is very popular down here (my preferred cheap beer), but most outsiders think it's swill.  The difference seems to be that nobody down here would ever say that Shiners the best beer in the world 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: ReaPsTA on August 01, 2009, 09:54:40 PM
I'm can't say Yuengling is the best beer in the world, I haven't tried enough different beers. But it's unquestionably the best beer I've tasted. Better than any Macrobrew I've had by a long shot. And better than the couple of lesser known brews I've tried.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Perpetual Change on August 02, 2009, 09:16:21 PM
Yuengling's just a good cheap beer. The best of the shitty selection. I can't believe people actually make more of it than that.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on August 02, 2009, 09:36:22 PM
Yuengling's just a good cheap beer. The best of the shitty selection. I can't believe people actually make more of it than that.
Yeah, I'm definitely starting to realize that.  I've been mislead.  In the meantime, Safeway has Sierra Nevada on sale for dirt cheap for the entire month of August.  Barto be stockin' up. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on August 02, 2009, 10:40:05 PM
https://www.wnd.com/index.php?fa=PAGE.view&pageId=105764
 :omg: ;)

Whoever put the "47,O44" easter egg at the top is someone I'd like to have a CHIMAY with.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on August 04, 2009, 10:46:03 PM
https://www.wnd.com/index.php?fa=PAGE.view&pageId=105764
 :omg: ;)

Whoever put the "47,O44" easter egg at the top is someone I'd like to have a CHIMAY with.

Thanks Internet, now whenever I hear "Kenya" I think of this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qRuNxHqwazs
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on August 04, 2009, 10:49:02 PM
 :|
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on August 07, 2009, 05:16:18 PM
 :lol :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on August 13, 2009, 05:18:42 PM
Speaking of rigid and inflexible, did Em go some place cool?  Hadn't heard from down South in a while. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: millahh on August 14, 2009, 03:35:14 PM
Self-requested temp-ban, for school reasons.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on August 14, 2009, 10:45:32 PM
Speaking of rigid and inflexible, did Em go some place cool?  Hadn't heard from down South in a while. 

He was supposed to ship me a package of 100% pure Colombian...., uhh, flour, and ran off with the money!

Self-requested temp-ban, for school reasons.

I like my answer better.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on August 14, 2009, 11:53:29 PM
Why we I fight:
https://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2009/8/14/766711/-Rage-and-Sadness-made-me-do-it...
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on August 16, 2009, 11:59:27 PM
Quote
Why we I fight:
https://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2009/8/14/766711/-Rage-and-Sadness-made-me-do-it...

Rage and sadness made him pay someone else's expense at a business?

Its funny to me that no one helps would be doctors and nurses pay their 8 + years through school, but when they start performing medical procedures that cost a bit of coin its a major injustice that it isn't free.

eff that in the a
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on August 17, 2009, 12:23:25 AM
Quote
Why we I fight:
https://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2009/8/14/766711/-Rage-and-Sadness-made-me-do-it...

Rage and sadness made him pay someone else's expense at a business?

Its funny to me that no one helps would be doctors and nurses pay their 8 + years through school, but when they start performing medical procedures that cost a bit of coin its a major injustice that it isn't free.

eff that in the a

You do realize most liberals would probably support free higher education? 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on August 17, 2009, 01:28:47 AM
Quote
You do realize most liberals would probably support free higher education?

Thats not the point.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on August 17, 2009, 01:48:24 AM
Quote
You do realize most liberals would probably support free higher education?

Thats not the point.

That's directly the point? You said it's funny to you that no one helps would be doctors, but liberals already/want to help would be doctors.

You're trying to point out a hypocrisy that's not there.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on August 17, 2009, 02:50:48 AM
https://www.freehighered.org/h_statem.html
Quote
We, the undersigned, say no, and call for the government to assume responsibility for payment of all tuition and fees for all students enrolled at all public, post-secondary degree-awarding educational institutions.

Free higher education, then free gas, then free food, and electricity and all that stupid shit that the government will pay for with a magical fairy money machine that does not incur debt or suffer the woes of inflation.

My point is that even though you want something something does not make it practical or technically even possible, nor does it justify your motivation for changing something as massive as the US healthcare system.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on August 17, 2009, 12:07:58 PM
https://www.freehighered.org/h_statem.html
Quote
We, the undersigned, say no, and call for the government to assume responsibility for payment of all tuition and fees for all students enrolled at all public, post-secondary degree-awarding educational institutions.

Free higher education, then free gas, then free food, and electricity and all that stupid shit that the government will pay for with a magical fairy money machine that does not incur debt or suffer the woes of inflation.

My point is that even though you want something something does not make it practical or technically even possible, nor does it justify your motivation for changing something as massive as the US healthcare system.

Why do you just love slippery slope fallacies? This seems to be a theme in all your objections. Free education does not lead to free food and electricity, nor anything else.

And UHC is quite possible. Seeing as how every other modern country has UHC systems, and all them are perform better and for less money than our own, I hardly see how this is not "practical or technically even possible." The argument against UHC is based solely around the confirmation bias - look up the systems in Japan, Germany, Taiwan, Switzerland. GB and Canada are the worst examples, and they're still better than what we have. Hell, you don't even need a public option, or anything directly administered by the government. Making rescission illegal and capping health care profits would go a long way. This would actually reduce the amount of money we spend on health care - and if our government spend money like it should, taxes could actually be lowered. If you're going to complain about the federal budget, it seems to be you should be upset about the part of the budget which has and is making us go bankrupt: "defense."

ANd by the way, that is definitely not the point you had in your oringal post. You were trying to point otu a hyporicsy that when doctors have to pay tons of money and go through lots of schooling, there's no one there helping them. Not only is that wrong (it's like that commentor on fox news saying he never got any help from anybody, but he went on unemployment and got money from Government), but it also ignores the desire s of the people who want UHC. People pushing for UHC also push for cheaper/free higher education.

By the way, the author is making a point about the current health care system that current right wing paranoia has taken up on: "death panels." What would a death panel be in this pipe dream of a government? A body of people deciding not to treat people becuase it would be too expensive. And the point this guy was making was that our current system won't even treat a person who obviously needs to see a doctors becuase a $40 co payment. We have death panels... private one's.

You're also one-dimensionalizing my arguments for UHC.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on August 17, 2009, 09:02:42 PM
Wasnt talking about UHC, I was talking about free higher education which is bullshit and impractical.

Quote
but it also ignores the desire s of the people who want UHC. People pushing for UHC also push for cheaper/free higher education.

Thats a generalization of people who want universal health care.

It may have been a bit brash of me to say something broad like that without first reading up on free higher education.

I hate when you do this to me...its not a fallacy. The government has been continuously and more frequently intervening in the private sector recently.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on August 17, 2009, 10:10:22 PM
 :tup Scheavo
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on August 17, 2009, 10:45:11 PM
Wasnt talking about UHC, I was talking about free higher education which is bullshit and impractical.

Quote
but it also ignores the desire s of the people who want UHC. People pushing for UHC also push for cheaper/free higher education.

Thats a generalization of people who want universal health care.

It may have been a bit brash of me to say something broad like that without first reading up on free higher education.

I hate when you do this to me...its not a fallacy. The government has been continuously and more frequently intervening in the private sector recently.

And yes that is a generalizatino, but it's a pretty sound one. Who supports UHC? Liberals. Who supports free higher education? Liberals. I'll admit that I'm sure there's pelnty of exceptions, where some people want one or the other, but not both.

And it's still a slippery slope argument. The only way for it not to be a slippery slope argument is for you to show directly how UHC and free higher education leads to free food, etc. To put it differently, I'm not saying that you are wrong, I'm saying you're not giving an argument for it at all. Basing an argument solely upon a slow transgression of events, without arguments of why they would happen - and especially when the end result is absrud -  is a slippery slope fallacy.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AndyDT on August 18, 2009, 01:16:00 PM
But of course it's not "free" and never can be "free".
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on August 18, 2009, 01:17:32 PM
But of course it's not "free" and never can be "free".
No but I'll gladly pay taxes so I don't have to be in a ridiculous amount of debt after I finish university:

https://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/education/8205539.stm
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on August 18, 2009, 01:19:10 PM
But of course it's not "free" and never can be "free".
No but I'll gladly pay taxes so I don't have to be in a ridiculous amount of debt after I finish university:

https://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/education/8205539.stm

It'll cost you more than money - IT WILL COST YOU YOUR MASCULINITY.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on August 18, 2009, 01:20:32 PM
I guess I'm not anglo centric swonpotz enough.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on August 18, 2009, 03:19:41 PM
Quote
No but I'll gladly pay more taxes so that the government can still be in a tremendous amount of debt after I finish university:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on August 18, 2009, 09:44:19 PM
Emin sends his greetings from ColOmbia.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on August 19, 2009, 10:31:54 AM
Quote
No but I'll gladly pay more taxes so that the government can still be in a tremendous amount of debt after I finish university:
lol

The only reason they introduced tuition fees was to try and help universities get more funding. Not to pay the government.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on August 19, 2009, 12:33:50 PM
Government paying for it = disaster in the long term.

For everyone not in college or who never plans on going to college and still pays taxes.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on August 19, 2009, 02:00:35 PM
This argument has been addressed millions of times.

Nice dodge.  :tup

I'll assume you mean he dodged the thing about being entitled to other people's work?

In that case, why don't we have private companies ensuring cops, the military, and firefighters? If you can't afford to pay for them when they're needed, and you don't have insurance, they don't help you.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on August 19, 2009, 06:22:40 PM
huh?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on August 19, 2009, 08:52:17 PM
Government paying for it = disaster in the long term.

For everyone not in college or who never plans on going to college and still pays taxes.

Are you saying the government paying for anything is a disaster in the long run, or that government paying for education is a disaster in the long run?

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on August 19, 2009, 11:55:59 PM
The government paying for anything that it should not be paying for, ex. higher education for millions of people, universal healthcare for millions of people, welfare for millions of people, etc is always a disaster.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on August 20, 2009, 12:32:49 AM
How does it lead to disaster? Why does it lead to a disaster? When has it lead to a disaster?

What disasters?

Disaster economically? Disaster in terms of the quality of the health care, education or whatever other service rendered?

 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on August 20, 2009, 01:09:43 AM
This will answer all of those questions (https://jim.com/econ/)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on August 20, 2009, 01:50:57 AM
This will answer all of those questions (https://jim.com/econ/)

Is arrogance and a feeling of superiority a required trait of libertarians?

Oh, and tomorrow, I'm goin to start another thread about how silly the "broken window" fallacy is. The last one got ruined when the forums got crashed, and I'd say the libertarians caught a break.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on August 20, 2009, 02:15:42 AM
Offering you a piece of historically validated economic literature that directly answers all of the questions you just posed makes me arrogant?

Damn. I wonder what that makes you.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on August 20, 2009, 02:27:20 AM
Offering you a piece of historically validated economic literature that directly answers all of the questions you just posed makes me arrogant?

Damn. I wonder what that makes you.

It makes you arrogant because you're assuming my ignorance, and assuming your omniscience. You're assuming I haven't read the literature in question, and it assumes that it will contain ALL my answers.

Besides, I wasn't asking those questinos in general, I was asking about your position. You said it always "leads to disaster," but that is an extremely vauge thing to say.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on August 20, 2009, 08:39:36 AM
As I recall, the preface was even sillier than the broken window fallacy. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on August 20, 2009, 11:54:31 AM
Quote
Besides, I wasn't asking those questinos in general, I was asking about your position. You said it always "leads to disaster," but that is an extremely vauge thing to say.

The reason I linked you to it was because those answers are my answers, so quit bitching about why I linked you to it and just go read it.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on August 20, 2009, 02:30:01 PM
Quote
Besides, I wasn't asking those questinos in general, I was asking about your position. You said it always "leads to disaster," but that is an extremely vauge thing to say.

The reason I linked you to it was because those answers are my answers, so quit bitching about why I linked you to it and just go read it.

And who says I haven't? You're stil assuming my ignorance, are you not?

And thanks for saying yourself that you're a dogmatist (not that there's anything necessarily wrong with that.. it' just opens up another debate).
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on August 20, 2009, 03:04:01 PM
Nigerius Rex, do you actually like Dream Theater?

It just occurred to me that I had never seen you post outside of P&R before so I had a quick look through the list of every post you've made and I was right :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on August 20, 2009, 03:40:38 PM
Quote
And who says I haven't? You're stil assuming my ignorance, are you not?

Obviously not you because instead of just saying "no I havent/have read it" and leaving it at that, you went on about how ignorant I am.

Quote
It just occurred to me that I had never seen you post outside of P&R before so I had a quick look through the list of every post you've made and I was right

Love dream theater, I guess I have just got into such a habit of P/r that I never really go to any other boards  :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on August 20, 2009, 03:49:42 PM
Quote
And who says I haven't? You're stil assuming my ignorance, are you not?

Obviously not you because instead of just saying "no I havent/have read it" and leaving it at that, you went on about how ignorant I am.

Quote

When - at least in this discussion - have I said how ignorant you are? I never went on at all about how ignorant you are, I went on about how you are assuming my arrogance. Please, stop making things up.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on August 20, 2009, 04:38:27 PM
Bitching is bitching, not reading a book does not make you arrogant.

It was a simple reccomendation that you are turning into a giant fiasco. Get over it already.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on August 20, 2009, 05:06:47 PM
Bitching is bitching, not reading a book does not make you arrogant.

It was a simple reccomendation that you are turning into a giant fiasco. Get over it already.

Dude, I HAVE READ IT

Continue with your arrogance though.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on August 20, 2009, 05:55:46 PM
Now why couldn't we have just saved 8 posts and you could have said that after I posted the link.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on August 20, 2009, 06:00:26 PM
Now why couldn't we have just saved 8 posts and you could have said that after I posted the link.



I did? What else do you think I mean when I said, "you assume I haven't read it"? Would I post that if you were right?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on August 20, 2009, 06:34:02 PM
Playing devils advocate maybe?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on August 20, 2009, 07:29:23 PM
Doesn't that require the assumption that I haven't read it?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: millahh on August 20, 2009, 08:03:23 PM
P/R really does stand for "pedantic and ridiculous" sometimes...
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on August 20, 2009, 08:40:10 PM
Quote
P/R really does stand for "pedantic and ridiculous" sometimes...

Sorry millah, Ive asked you over and over to respect other people. Gonna have to give you a warning.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: millahh on August 21, 2009, 06:17:07 AM
Quote
P/R really does stand for "pedantic and ridiculous" sometimes...

Sorry millah, Ive asked you over and over to respect other people. Gonna have to give you a warning.

 :blush

No fair...you don't warn hefdaddy or bosk1...
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on August 21, 2009, 12:29:33 PM
Oh trust me, they got theres.   :police:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on August 21, 2009, 01:16:12 PM
Speaking of rigid and inflexible, did Em go some place cool?  Hadn't heard from down South in a while. 
He was supposed to ship me a package of 100% pure Colombian...., uhh, flour, and ran off with the money!

Self-requested temp-ban, for school reasons.
I like my answer better.
Three Cubans had to die to get you the delivery.

Anyway, I'm back!
(https://www.schwimmerlegal.com/jack%20heres_johnny.jpg)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on August 21, 2009, 04:39:50 PM
I find it appropriate that you compare yourself to a crazy man, em.  :biggrin:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on August 21, 2009, 05:29:43 PM
I get that way when you don't understand basic and refuted fallacious arguments.  :angel:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on August 21, 2009, 07:13:28 PM
I get that way when you don't understand basic and refuted fallacious arguments.  :angel:

I'd say it's more foolish to think something is a fallacy, when it is not.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on August 21, 2009, 07:27:40 PM
I get that way when you don't understand basic and refuted fallacious arguments.  :angel:
I'd say it's more foolish to think something is a fallacy, when it is not.
It's more foolish not to accept defeat. Accepting ones mistake is a virtue.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on August 21, 2009, 07:56:53 PM
I get that way when you don't understand basic and refuted fallacious arguments.  :angel:
I'd say it's more foolish to think something is a fallacy, when it is not.
It's more foolish not to accept defeat. Accepting ones mistake is a virtue.

Why accept defeat, when you haven't been defeated? Cowardice is a vice. You saying over and over again that I'm wrong does not make me wrong anymore than me saying your wrong over and over again makes you wrong.

By the way, nice projection.  :biggrin:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on August 21, 2009, 08:06:40 PM
You are wrong. There's no doubt about it. You've been pointed out many times why you are wrong. It's that you find the reason you are wrong as a way to prove you are right. Doesn't work, buddy.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on August 21, 2009, 08:12:06 PM
You are wrong. There's no doubt about it. You've been pointed out many times why you are wrong. It's that you find the reason you are wrong as a way to prove you are right. Doesn't work, buddy.

From your perspective. You really are just getting silly now. An argument is rather worthless when both sides can use the same argument. I could just as easily tell you that you've been pointed out many times why and how you are wrong.

Get off your high horse.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: millahh on August 22, 2009, 06:11:53 AM
Quote
Man:
Oh look, this isn't an argument!

(pause)

Other Man:
Yes it is!

Man:
No it isn't!

(pause)

Man:
It's just contradiction!

Other Man:
No it isn't!

Man:
It IS!

Other Man:
It is NOT!

Man:
You just contradicted me!

Other Man:
No I didn't!

Man:
You DID!

Other Man:
No no no!

Man:
You did just then!

Other Man:
Nonsense!

Man:
(exasperated) Oh, this is futile!!

(pause)

Other Man:
No it isn't!

Man:
Yes it is!

(pause)

Man:
I came here for a good argument!

Other Man:
AH, no you didn't, you came here for an argument!

Man:
An argument isn't just contradiction.

Other Man:
Well! it CAN be!

Man:
No it can't!

Man:
An argument is a connected series of statements intended to establish a proposition.

Other Man:
No it isn't!

Man:
Yes it is! 'tisn't just contradiction.

Other Man:
Look, if I "argue" with you, I must take up a contrary position!

Man:
Yes but it isn't just saying 'no it isn't'.

Other Man:
Yes it is!

Man:
No it isn't!

Other Man:
Yes it is!

Man:
No it isn't!

Other Man:
Yes it is!

Man:
No it ISN'T! Argument is an intellectual process. Contradiction is just the automatic gainsaying of anything the other person says.


Other Man:
It is NOT!

Man:
It is!

Other Man:
Not at all!

Man:
It is!

 :biggrin:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: XJDenton on August 24, 2009, 05:01:46 AM
I'm considering drawing up a formal proposal of "Unintelligent Design" as an explanation of life. Anyone want to help me write it?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on August 24, 2009, 10:28:32 AM
I'm considering drawing up a formal proposal of "Unintelligent Design" as an explanation of life. Anyone want to help me write it?

As in, just point to the spleen, gills when we're in the womb, hiccups, etc?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: XJDenton on August 24, 2009, 10:42:17 AM
The first 3 chapters will be dedicated to the platypus. I mean, whats up with that shit?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on August 24, 2009, 12:54:21 PM
Quote
I'm considering drawing up a formal proposal of "Unintelligent Design" as an explanation of life. Anyone want to help me write it?

Were you abused by a priest or something when you were younger?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: rumborak on August 24, 2009, 01:13:58 PM
Quote
I'm considering drawing up a formal proposal of "Unintelligent Design" as an explanation of life. Anyone want to help me write it?

Were you abused by a priest or something when you were younger?

Why do you ask that? To XJ and others (including me), the whole "Intelligent Design" movement is an affront on serious inquiry. Given how prolific the movement is, one (sadly) has to counter one way or the other.
Ignoring it is sadly not an option.

rumborak
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on August 24, 2009, 03:03:14 PM
(https://farm4.static.flickr.com/3230/2790950732_f8c0c01554_b.jpg)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on August 25, 2009, 03:50:40 AM
Quote
Why do you ask that? To XJ and others (including me), the whole "Intelligent Design" movement is an affront on serious inquiry. Given how prolific the movement is, one (sadly) has to counter one way or the other.
Ignoring it is sadly not an option.

Ignoring it, like you ignore anything else is an option.

Science is not an atheist only pet rock that proves whatever they believe, many men who have earned there scientific educations and backgrounds do indeed choose to believe in and support intelligent design.

So to go on that ID or religion in general is an affront to serious inquiry not only makes you sound as if you are some self appointed defender of science (aka douche), but it is simply untrue. Not just that, but for someone to use that as a reason to continuously mock something they don't like is very poor justification.

Live and let live.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: XJDenton on August 25, 2009, 12:24:34 PM
Quote
I'm considering drawing up a formal proposal of "Unintelligent Design" as an explanation of life. Anyone want to help me write it?

Were you abused by a priest or something when you were younger?

...what the hell type of question is that?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: millahh on August 25, 2009, 12:35:51 PM
Quote
I'm considering drawing up a formal proposal of "Unintelligent Design" as an explanation of life. Anyone want to help me write it?

Were you abused by a priest or something when you were younger?

Quote
Why do you ask that? To XJ and others (including me), the whole "Intelligent Design" movement is an affront on serious inquiry. Given how prolific the movement is, one (sadly) has to counter one way or the other.
Ignoring it is sadly not an option.

Ignoring it, like you ignore anything else is an option.

Science is not an atheist only pet rock that proves whatever they believe, many men who have earned there scientific educations and backgrounds do indeed choose to believe in and support intelligent design.

So to go on that ID or religion in general is an affront to serious inquiry not only makes you sound as if you are some self appointed defender of science (aka douche), but it is simply untrue. Not just that, but for someone to use that as a reason to continuously mock something they don't like is very poor justification.

Live and let live.

NG, cut it out.  You've been warned about this before, and now this is two posts in a row.  Final warning.  Next time you step out of line, you're getting a vacation.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on August 25, 2009, 03:57:59 PM
Quote
NG, cut it out.  You've been warned about this before, and now this is two posts in a row.  Final warning.  Next time you step out of line, you're getting a vacation.

My bad.

Quote
...what the hell type of question is that?

There has to be some reason besides this crappy affront to scientific inquiry thing you and all the dawkinites keep trying to push. I mean really, you live with so many more retarded things in your life than religion and intelligent design yet somehow these need to be destroyed because.....they are wrong...according to you. I dont understand why you cant just turn a blind eye and like I said, live and let live.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on August 25, 2009, 04:24:29 PM
Because "intelligent designers" won't live an let live. They're the ones affronting Science, by trying to claim "Intelligent Design" is science - by asking that it be taught in science class. Again, this does not ay anything about the truthfullness of intelligent design, it just say that it is not Science.

I have nothing wrong with the philospihcal idea of creationism being taught in schools, but not in Science class.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on August 25, 2009, 04:57:24 PM
Intelligent design is a legitimate idea backed by many scientifically sound people and should be given the same equal attention as evolution is given. Its not biased or one sided, its simply fair. But the dawkinites seem to have this idea that it will destabilize science as a whole and reign terror on the masses.

Also maybe your definition of live and let live is a little different than mine. I am not telling, or suggesting we tell anyone how to think or behave. But by disallowing teachers or schools to teach ID in any science class you are by default telling them that what you think they believe is not science and that science is defined as this and only this. Kind of a breach of you believe what you want and I believe what I want and we wont tell each other what to believe by default is it not?

Teaching children that there are very popular alternative ideas to evolution wont do anything, the distinction here is that we are not telling them that ID is correct or incorrect which is not the case in science classes right now for evolution.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on August 25, 2009, 04:59:49 PM
It's still not science. It may be a legitimate idea but it's not science.

I am not trying to disprove Intelligent Design in this post. I am simply saying that it's not science.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on August 25, 2009, 05:20:46 PM
Intelligent design is a legitimate idea backed by many scientifically sound people and should be given the same equal attention as evolution is given. Its not biased or one sided, its simply fair. But the dawkinites seem to have this idea that it will destabilize science as a whole and reign terror on the masses.

Also maybe your definition of live and let live is a little different than mine. I am not telling, or suggesting we tell anyone how to think or behave. But by disallowing teachers or schools to teach ID in any science class you are by default telling them that what you think they believe is not science and that science is defined as this and only this. Kind of a breach of you believe what you want and I believe what I want and we wont tell each other what to believe by default is it not?

Teaching children that there are very popular alternative ideas to evolution wont do anything, the distinction here is that we are not telling them that ID is correct or incorrect which is not the case in science classes right now for evolution.


No dude, intelligent design isn't Science by definition. Science is very strictly defined, and one of the characteristics it requires is "falsifiability" and "reproducibility." Intelligent design can't offer anything of this sort. Intelligent designeres offer no experiments, nothing which can be reproduced, it makes no predictions, no hypothesis. There is nothing to test. This means it is not science.

Seriously, I'm not saying anything about the idea of creationism or intelligent design. I'm saying it's not science. And like I just said, I have no qualms about intelligent design being taught in schools, just not in the fucking science class.

Also, science says nothing of the sort. YOu have to completely misunderstand science in order to come to your conclusion (but you've already proven that by thinking ID is science).
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on August 25, 2009, 05:52:00 PM
I didnt know philosiphy majors had the credentials to tell other people they do not understand science.   :rollin

This is not a discussion I wish to have with anyone on the internet.

As denton so conveniently put it in the other thread:

Quote
Can we not just agree that noone on this forum knows a sufficient amount of climatology to make these arguments worth anything? It would save alot of senseless arguing.

Also, maybe a little reading.

https://www.ideacenter.org/contentmgr/showdetails.php/id/832

https://www.frame-poythress.org/frame_articles/IntelligentDesign.htm#_ftnref4

https://www.frame-poythress.org/poythress_articles/2003Why.htm

https://www.veritas-ucsb.org/library/origins/GRAPHICS-CAPTIONS/Flagellum.html
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on August 25, 2009, 06:07:26 PM
I didnt know philosiphy majors had the credentials to tell other people they do not understand science.   :rollin


Seeing as how philosophy created science and the scientific method, I would say philosophy has a rather good claim at defining what science is. Scientific inquiry and Philosophic inquiry are motivated by the same things. There isn't' the saying, "Philosophy is the queen of the sciences" for no reason. To make the point even further, "science" is latin for "knowledge," and a heavy and integral part of Philosophy is epistemology - or the theory of knowledge.

Besides which, this is a retarded thing to say. First of all, the first two years of college, I was a physics major (did quite well in it too). I've taken high end physics courses as early as a year ago, and would love continue doing so in Grad school. You also didn't actually address the points. It also begs the question: what's your major?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on August 25, 2009, 06:13:06 PM
1. None of your business. Even if it was a related science it wouldn't be good enough or I wouldn't have enough experience or some other crap which you will make up on the spot if I told you and we continued this debate.

2. Like I said, don't want to have this discussion with anyone on the internet because the same thing happens over and over. Especially with dawkinites who will never acknowledge their own bias and think they are the science god.

The fact that you are even trying to justify your criticisms of a science that you don't have a degree for just reinforces what I thought about debating religion on the internet in the first place.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on August 25, 2009, 06:48:29 PM
1. None of your business. Even if it was a related science it wouldn't be good enough or I wouldn't have enough experience or some other crap which you will make up on the spot if I told you and we continued this debate.

No I wouldn't. Your projecting becuase that's what you've done, and what you were trying to do. The problem is, according to your own logic, you can't make any of the justifications you are trying to make. You've already tried to make up some crap that I don't have enough experience (because I'm a philosophy major).

Quote
2. Like I said, don't want to have this discussion with anyone on the internet because the same thing happens over and over. Especially with dawkinites who will never acknowledge their own bias and think they are the science god.

I'm not a dawkinite. Not even close. In this field, you would have to call me a Heideggarian. But please, go on insisting that intelligent design is Science, when it's not by definition. Go read Francis Bacon, please.

Plus, like I've said numerous times, I have no problem with creationism being taught in schools, it just doesn't belong in the Science class room. It would be like teaching Spanish in English class. That is simply not the subject matter.

Quote

The fact that you are even trying to justify your criticisms of a science that you don't have a degree for just reinforces what I thought about debating religion on the internet in the first place.


You're right, I don't have a degree in the "science" of Creationism/Intelligent Design because it's not a Science. Intelligent design theory does not follow the Scientific Method, and is basically forecluded from being so by it's very stance on the issue.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: millahh on August 25, 2009, 07:13:03 PM
I didnt know philosiphy majors had the credentials to tell other people they do not understand science.   :rollin


Y'know, there's a reason that the terminal degree in a scientific degree is called a Ph.D....
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on August 25, 2009, 07:20:07 PM
Quote
No I wouldn't. Your projecting becuase that's what you've done, and what you were trying to do. The problem is, according to your own logic, you can't make any of the justifications you are trying to make. You've already tried to make up some crap that I don't have enough experience (because I'm a philosophy major).

I am not projecting and it wasn't specific to you. I am saying you don't have enough experience, because you don't and not in the right field. Remember a while back when I gave you that petition (https://www.petitionproject.org/qualifications_of_signers.php) of the thousands of scientists who thought global warming was a load of bull? Remember the general response (https://www.dreamtheaterforums.org/boards/index.php?topic=3120.175) that you seemed to agree with? The majority of the petition was filled with scientists who were not directly involved in climate science.

Why is your case with your two years of physics any different for biology or evolution and intelligent design?

Quote
I'm not a dawkinite. Not even close. In this field, you would have to call me a Heideggarian. But please, go on insisting that intelligent design is Science, when it's not by definition. Go read Francis Bacon, please.

Once again, not specific to you. It was a general reply encapsulating the entire internet debate atmosphere.

Quote
Plus, like I've said numerous times, I have no problem with creationism being taught in schools, it just doesn't belong in the Science class room. It would be like teaching Spanish in English class. That is simply not the subject matter.

Heres one of the humps. People who do have relevant degrees in the fields relating to evolution/creation debate do support ID. You cant deny they do, you cant challenge there backgrounds or degrees, and you cant dismiss what they believe. So how do you get off dismissing ID as not science without contradicting something that very clearly exists?

edit: Srsly millah...srsly.

Quote
Y'know, there's a reason that the terminal degree in a scientific degree is called a Ph.D

I cant believe the same crowd that has shot me down all these times for bringing unqualified experts to the table is now supporting scheavo as he becomes a scientist with his philosophy degree. This is exactly what I mean when I say debating on the internet. You know as well as I, thats not what it means. Maybe historically, but the meaning is very obviously not (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phd) philosophy in sheavos sense.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on August 25, 2009, 08:20:12 PM
Quote
No I wouldn't. Your projecting becuase that's what you've done, and what you were trying to do. The problem is, according to your own logic, you can't make any of the justifications you are trying to make. You've already tried to make up some crap that I don't have enough experience (because I'm a philosophy major).

I am not projecting and it wasn't specific to you. I am saying you don't have enough experience, because you don't and not in the right field. Remember a while back when I gave you that petition (https://www.petitionproject.org/qualifications_of_signers.php) of the thousands of scientists who thought global warming was a load of bull? Remember the general response (https://www.dreamtheaterforums.org/boards/index.php?topic=3120.175) that you seemed to agree with? The majority of the petition was filled with scientists who were not directly involved in climate science.

Why is your case with your two years of physics any different for biology or evolution and intelligent design?

Hehe. Sorry, it's funny becuase you report to evidence which proves you wrong. From that thread:


Second of all, modern scientific surveys are amazingly accurate. That, and it is simply a landslide. 82% of scientists and 97% of climatologists. Seriously, do you somehow think that this survey magically, and pretty much mathematically impossibly, surveyed simply the scientists who agree with the movement?

(https://img257.imageshack.us/img257/203/climatechange.png)


97% of Climatologists, which was defined as people, "who listed climate science as their area of expertise and who also have published more than 50% of their recent peer-reviewed papers on the subject of climate change (79 individuals n total). Of these specialists, 96.2%(76 of 79) answered “risen” to question 1 and 97.4% (75 of 77) answered yes to question 2."

Quote
Quote
I'm not a dawkinite. Not even close. In this field, you would have to call me a Heideggarian. But please, go on insisting that intelligent design is Science, when it's not by definition. Go read Francis Bacon, please.

Once again, not specific to you. It was a general reply encapsulating the entire internet debate atmosphere.

C'mon man, just admit you assumed I was a "dawkinite."

Quote
Quote
Plus, like I've said numerous times, I have no problem with creationism being taught in schools, it just doesn't belong in the Science class room. It would be like teaching Spanish in English class. That is simply not the subject matter.

Heres one of the humps. People who do have relevant degrees in the fields relating to evolution/creation debate do support ID. You cant deny they do, you cant challenge there backgrounds or degrees, and you cant dismiss what they believe. So how do you get off dismissing ID as not science without contradicting something that very clearly exists?

So um... why are you assuming every scientists actually performs Science? I go about calling it not Science based upon the definition of what science is. Meaning, if something doesn't follow a very exact method, meaning very exact means to an end, it is not Science. ID, and every single 'scientific' paper about ID doesn't follow these criteria, nor this definition. Also: The New Organon  (https://books.google.com/books?id=MUm8Yzmq5NUC&dq=francis+bacon+the+new+organon&printsec=frontcover&source=bl&ots=AkP81eAEi2&sig=XPR7WlzhhN9q6FFZ0Ut0_2lUddg&hl=en&ei=05qUSvikBZS2MNTJxfoH&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=3#v=onepage&q=&f=false). That is how any science department in the country, and in the world, is going to define modern Science.

Quote
edit: Srsly millah...srsly.

Quote
Y'know, there's a reason that the terminal degree in a scientific degree is called a Ph.D

I cant believe the same crowd that has shot me down all these times for bringing unqualified experts to the table is now supporting scheavo as he becomes a scientist with his philosophy degree. This is exactly what I mean when I say debating on the internet. You know as well as I, thats not what it means. Maybe historically, but the meaning is very obviously not (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phd) philosophy in sheavos sense.

Quote from: Wiki
Doctor of Philosophy, abbreviated PhD (also Ph.D.), for the Latin philosophiæ doctor, meaning "teacher of philosophy",

That's why? Because if Philosophy isn't related, why is every single Ph.D in any science called a "teacher of philosophy"?

And, thanks milahh... I forgot about that one.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: millahh on August 25, 2009, 08:36:36 PM

I cant believe the same crowd that has shot me down all these times for bringing unqualified experts to the table is now supporting scheavo as he becomes a scientist with his philosophy degree. This is exactly what I mean when I say debating on the internet. You know as well as I, thats not what it means. Maybe historically, but the meaning is very obviously not (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phd) philosophy in sheavos sense.

I'm not calling scheavo a scientist, or an expert in science.  So far as I know, he lacks the technical knowledge, the experience, and the insight (nothing personal, scheavo).  What he brings to the table is being well versed in logic, which is the foundation upon which science is built, and IMHO the part of science education that is most lacking in this country.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on August 25, 2009, 09:24:31 PM

I cant believe the same crowd that has shot me down all these times for bringing unqualified experts to the table is now supporting scheavo as he becomes a scientist with his philosophy degree. This is exactly what I mean when I say debating on the internet. You know as well as I, thats not what it means. Maybe historically, but the meaning is very obviously not (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phd) philosophy in sheavos sense.

I'm not calling scheavo a scientist, or an expert in science.  So far as I know, he lacks the technical knowledge, the experience, and the insight (nothing personal, scheavo)[/b].What he brings to the table is being well versed in logic, which is the foundation upon which science is built, and IMHO the part of science education that is most lacking in this country.

Meh, being ignorant never bothered me so much as being irrational. It's rather easy to fix ignorance if you're rational.

That, and good ol' Socrates.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on August 25, 2009, 09:47:58 PM
Arguing with you guys is like talking to a dining room table.

Quote
C'mon man, just admit you assumed I was a "dawkinite."

I will sick millahh on you if you don't stop telling me what I was trying to say.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on August 25, 2009, 10:01:11 PM
Arguing with you guys is like talking to a dining room table.


Yes, we're the stubborn ones.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on August 25, 2009, 10:18:25 PM
Yep. Its good to see you finally starting to realize it.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on August 25, 2009, 11:04:07 PM
Lol.

That's why I'm the one who answers with a yes or no; and why I create straw men, bring up red herrings, and employ other fallacies; and that's also why I ignore arguments completely.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on August 26, 2009, 01:17:33 AM
Quote
That's why I'm the one who answers with a yes or no; and why I create straw men, bring up red herrings, and employ other fallacies; and that's also why I ignore arguments completely.

Its best not to dwell on your fallacious past, look forward, it will bring good things.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on August 26, 2009, 06:51:10 AM
الرئيس أوباما يوجه رسالته بمناسبة حلول شهر رمضان

If the Dems have any balls and audacity (unlikely), they will use the sentimentality of TK's passing to ram through a public option.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Progmetty on August 26, 2009, 01:23:50 PM
You are aware I can read Arabic right?  :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on August 26, 2009, 01:26:32 PM
Quote
President Obama brought his message on the occasion of the holy month of Ramadan

Google can too. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Progmetty on August 26, 2009, 01:37:56 PM
No one here brought any messeges to me for the occasion  ???
But I understand, if there's only one buddist on the forums no one would probably mention his holiday  :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on August 27, 2009, 07:11:22 PM
Quote
It doesn't, and that's the point I was making. You are what you accuse me of being (trying to call the kettle black).

Stay with me here. But even if I am guilty of something why does it make my statement any less true of you?

It doesn't. Did I say it did? That's why I'm saying how it's untrue by pointing to different things, and pointed to an example of where I followed reason.

Quote
Quote
It doesn't take a scientists to perform science, either

My point even in the other thread was this. Why can you with your non scientific philosophy degree claim to understand a scientific topic and at the same time discredit those who have scientific degrees but not in directly related fields? If anything a scientist in an indirectly related field would have at least some required background learning on the subject while you would not.

I never discredit valid science. Ever. I discredit pseudo-Science and name it for what it is becuase of what science is. Just because something quacks like a duck, doesn't mean that it's a duck. And what is my claim to knowing what science is? Other than the definition of science, which anyone can look up, there's the fact that science itself is a creation of philosophy. The justification for Science being what it is, is a philosophical justification. As I tried to point out before, science is the scientific method. The scientific method is an epistemological theory, which means it is a philosophical treatise. Any success science has had, it has gained through this epistemological theory - a philosophical theory. Don't you think that might give philosophers first hand knowledge on what makes science science?

If I call myself a Christian, and I don't believe in God, am I a Christian?

And what you're still missing is that I'm taking the background learning to the background learning. In other words, I'm studying the logos, which makes up biology. Science without logic isn't science, and it doesn't take a scientist to point out when that logic is missing. It's also why a philosophy degree can be used as a pre-law degree.

Because I know what science is, I know when something is not science.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on August 27, 2009, 07:42:51 PM
At least your not a lawyer, here you can spin your bs and not change anything.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on August 27, 2009, 07:49:03 PM
Great rebuttal.

But thanks for like, ya know, proving my point.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on August 27, 2009, 08:29:33 PM
You and I are people who are convinced we are right about certain things. So why bother.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on August 27, 2009, 09:03:50 PM
You and I are people who are convinced we are right about certain things. So why bother.

True... but isn't impossible to not be convinced about something? Even a skeptic is convinced he's right.

But my "convictions" are determined by the evidence. Change and show where the evidence is wrong, and my "convictions" change.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on August 30, 2009, 01:35:42 PM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NOHjMwPTCXQ

Quote
We could use Griffins but we don't and I think that's what separates us from them.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on August 30, 2009, 01:38:48 PM
Saw that today. Pretty damn funny :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on August 30, 2009, 01:55:26 PM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NOHjMwPTCXQ

Quote
We could use Griffins but we don't and I think that's what separates us from them.

The fact that no one has been charged with war crimes (especially Cheney and Bush) is perhaps the clearest indication to me that America is fucked.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on August 30, 2009, 02:10:24 PM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NOHjMwPTCXQ

Quote
We could use Griffins but we don't and I think that's what separates us from them.

The fact that no one has been charged with war crimes (especially Cheney and Bush) is perhaps the clearest indication to me that America is fucked.
I came to that conclusion when >50 of these cretins said it was OK for the government to spy on it's citizens.  That's when this place stopped being America. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on August 30, 2009, 02:39:51 PM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NOHjMwPTCXQ

Quote
We could use Griffins but we don't and I think that's what separates us from them.

The fact that no one has been charged with war crimes (especially Cheney and Bush) is perhaps the clearest indication to me that America is fucked.
I came to that conclusion when >50 of these cretins said it was OK for the government to spy on it's citizens.  That's when this place stopped being America.  

Good point. That still doesn't shock me as much as torture, though.

And wow... 1980 really seems to be a bad year for American history. Reagan became President and paved the way for 28(+) years of failed policy; and CNN launched, paving the way for an even dumber and more corporate controlled masses (and of course, Fox "News")

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on August 30, 2009, 02:43:18 PM
lolcnn. We get it here in the UK as well.

Instead of showing news about the world, it just shows news about America.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on August 30, 2009, 03:34:23 PM
Well I mean the idea behind CNN, not even necessarily the crap fest which is CNN. 24 hours news is a self-destroying idea, if you ask me. It makes news too much about ratings and profit, and not about objective quality journalism. People would rather persist in their delusions, than be told the truth - so the news which aides the delusions get good ratings.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on August 30, 2009, 04:26:23 PM
I know. I just wanted to complain about CNN.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on August 30, 2009, 09:54:12 PM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NOHjMwPTCXQ

Quote
We could use Griffins but we don't and I think that's what separates us from them.

The fact that no one has been charged with war crimes (especially Cheney and Bush) is perhaps the clearest indication to me that America is fucked.
I came to that conclusion when >50 of these cretins said it was OK for the government to spy on it's citizens.  That's when this place stopped being America. 

Good point. That still doesn't shock me as much as torture, though.

To me, the tolerance for torture is quite predictable.  You get to abuse people you think are bad, and justify it by claiming self defense.  The simple minded often default to violence and they'll never understand moral integrity. 

The spying was totally unexpected.  Not trusting the government is one of the most basic tenets this country was founded on, and as soon as people got spooked, they rolled over hard.

A country full of vicious simpletons I expect.  A country of pussies is surprising to me.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on September 04, 2009, 02:00:18 PM
https://poststuff5.entensity.net/090209/flash.php?media=chicks.flv

Again animal cruelty sucks but the solution is not that we all become vegans
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on September 04, 2009, 02:35:08 PM
https://poststuff5.entensity.net/090209/flash.php?media=chicks.flv

Again animal cruelty sucks but the solution is not that we all become vegans


In the end though it pretty much is. With the level of demand for meat being what it is, that kind of mechanized system is the only one that can really meet the demand.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on September 04, 2009, 04:38:18 PM
While I agree a mechanized system is necessary, it doesn't need to be moving at a speed or be as aggressive that it hurts some of the chicks unnecessarily and outright throws some of them off the conveyor belt to die on the floor.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on September 04, 2009, 11:35:46 PM
So you're saying that people who want the animals treated more humanely shouldn't boycott said industry?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on September 05, 2009, 01:32:12 AM
Obviously the machine in its current form violates US animal treatment laws. I dont think any boycott is necessary. In the case that they dont change the machine or are not forced, then I suppose a boycott would be the only way.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on September 05, 2009, 01:41:56 AM
So why is the government's intervention in this case totally acceptable? No one's rights are being infringed, unless you give animals the same rights and values as humans.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on September 05, 2009, 03:23:27 AM
I don't give them the same rights, I give them the right not to have their limbs crudely bruised and completely destroyed as well as the right not to be thrown from fast moving conveyor belts onto concrete floors to await the slow embrace of death. Are we on the same page here man? I know your trying to turn this into "SEE YOU LIKE THE GOVERNMENT AND YOUR BLIND" thing but this is completely different because something like this would be handled by state police on a local level.

https://www.straypetadvocacy.org/html/cruelty_laws.html
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on September 05, 2009, 08:59:16 AM
Go back to licking Uncle Sam's boot.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on September 05, 2009, 02:21:03 PM
Fuck. I was just watching the God channels (it's fun to do when you're bored) and this guy comes along and says "an unscientific theory such as evolution". It was the same guy who says that bananas are proof of God though.

It's worrying that this nonsense is allowed on TV.

Edit: HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA. "Even insurance companies have got it right. They call a tornado, earthquake etc. an "act of God"". Good proof.

Edit2: Now he's going around the street using the scare tactic of "If you died right now, you would probably go to hell" etc. Nice way of converting people :yeahright
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: j on September 05, 2009, 02:56:03 PM
Edit2: Now he's going around the street using the scare tactic of "If you died right now, you would probably go to hell" etc. Nice way of converting people :yeahright

 :lol

What are you talking about dude?  The threat of eternal damnation, along with acts of violence, have been historically proven conversion tools.  They've been making sincere believers for centuries! ;)

-J
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on September 06, 2009, 12:57:04 AM
Quote
Go back to licking Uncle Sam's boot.

So why does not liking government intervention when it comes to private property and business require me to hate the government?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on September 06, 2009, 01:12:50 AM
Quote
Go back to licking Uncle Sam's boot.

So why does not liking government intervention when it comes to private property and business require me to hate the government?
I was joking.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on September 06, 2009, 03:02:24 AM
I can never tell when your joking.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jobe on September 08, 2009, 10:52:15 PM
6 times as many people die each year in your country because it doesn't have a public healthcare system.

Even if you're not serious, I have little doubt many people believe in statements like this, and it is for these reasons that I'm trying to segue away from politics.

I'm not really sure me spending vast amounts of time arguing to walls is worth the opportunity cost at this time in my life. 
(This isn't, "So long and thanks for all the fish!")

[/elitism]

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on September 09, 2009, 09:17:12 AM
6 times as many people die each year in your country because it doesn't have a public healthcare system.

Even if you're not serious, I have little doubt many people believe in statements like this, and it is for these reasons that I'm trying to segue away from politics.

I'm not really sure me spending vast amounts of time arguing to walls is worth the opportunity cost at this time in my life.  
(This isn't, "So long and thanks for all the fish!")

[/elitism]



What I made was a true statement. I can see why even a right-winger might be disturbed by it. Too bad all the right has are the same free-market "solutions" that allowed this statistic to become a reality.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on September 09, 2009, 01:29:10 PM
Its like every stereotype I dislike about politics exists in disappear.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on September 09, 2009, 03:09:30 PM
Good, my motto is "comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable." It should give you some discomfort to see things that I support come to pass. Otherwise I'm not doing my job. :D
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AndyDT on September 10, 2009, 06:21:47 AM
Good, my motto is "comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable." It should give you some discomfort to see things that I support come to pass. Otherwise I'm not doing my job. :D
At what point do the comforted afflicted warrant arbitrary affliction?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on September 10, 2009, 09:38:51 AM
Good, my motto is "comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable." It should give you some discomfort to see things that I support come to pass. Otherwise I'm not doing my job. :D
At what point do the comforted afflicted warrant arbitrary affliction?
Never, that's the point.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AndyDT on September 10, 2009, 12:38:15 PM
Good, my motto is "comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable." It should give you some discomfort to see things that I support come to pass. Otherwise I'm not doing my job. :D
At what point do the comforted afflicted warrant arbitrary affliction?
Never, that's the point.
How can you possibly know the appointed "comfortable" aren't the previously afflicted?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on September 10, 2009, 01:03:24 PM
Good, my motto is "comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable." It should give you some discomfort to see things that I support come to pass. Otherwise I'm not doing my job. :D
At what point do the comforted afflicted warrant arbitrary affliction?
Never, that's the point.
How can you possibly know the appointed "comfortable" aren't the previously afflicted?
Haha, good point. Basically if you are humble and not greedy, you shouldn't have anything to worry about. I'm only going after the ones who do not have values.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on September 10, 2009, 05:43:53 PM
Good, my motto is "comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable." It should give you some discomfort to see things that I support come to pass. Otherwise I'm not doing my job. :D
At what point do the comforted afflicted warrant arbitrary affliction?
Never, that's the point.
How can you possibly know the appointed "comfortable" aren't the previously afflicted?
Haha, good point. Basically if you are humble and not greedy, you shouldn't have anything to worry about. I'm only going after the ones who do not have values.
Thank God we have Disappear judging.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on September 10, 2009, 05:50:44 PM
Good, my motto is "comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable." It should give you some discomfort to see things that I support come to pass. Otherwise I'm not doing my job. :D
At what point do the comforted afflicted warrant arbitrary affliction?
Never, that's the point.
How can you possibly know the appointed "comfortable" aren't the previously afflicted?
Haha, good point. Basically if you are humble and not greedy, you shouldn't have anything to worry about. I'm only going after the ones who do not have values.
Thank God we have Disappear judging.
Ahem, you mean thank Me.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on September 10, 2009, 06:11:28 PM
Good, my motto is "comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable." It should give you some discomfort to see things that I support come to pass. Otherwise I'm not doing my job. :D
At what point do the comforted afflicted warrant arbitrary affliction?
Never, that's the point.
How can you possibly know the appointed "comfortable" aren't the previously afflicted?
Haha, good point. Basically if you are humble and not greedy, you shouldn't have anything to worry about. I'm only going after the ones who do not have values.
Thank God we have Disappear judging.
Ahem, you mean thank Me.
:metardica:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: staveoffzombies on September 11, 2009, 12:06:55 AM
Just read this on wikipedia:

"A 2002 literature review of elective abortion rates found that 91–93% of pregnancies in the United States with a diagnosis of Down syndrome were terminated."

That's so so so horrible.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AndyDT on September 11, 2009, 06:33:55 AM
Good, my motto is "comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable." It should give you some discomfort to see things that I support come to pass. Otherwise I'm not doing my job. :D
At what point do the comforted afflicted warrant arbitrary affliction?
Never, that's the point.
How can you possibly know the appointed "comfortable" aren't the previously afflicted?
Haha, good point. Basically if you are humble and not greedy, you shouldn't have anything to worry about. I'm only going after the ones who do not have values.
Thank God we have Disappear judging.
Ahem, you mean thank Me.
:metardica:


Rashid - [n] the supreme deity of the ancient Greeks, a son of Cronus and Rhea, brother of Demeter, Hades, Hera, Hestia, and Poseidon, and father of a number of gods, demigods, and mortals; the god of the heavens, identified by the Romans with Jupiter.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on September 20, 2009, 12:57:17 PM
"You know who deserves a posthumous Medal of Honor? James Earl Ray. We miss you, James. Godspeed." - Rush Limbaugh  :rollin
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AndyDT on September 20, 2009, 02:10:20 PM
Disappear - do Hindus get guaranteed marriage if they want it?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on September 20, 2009, 03:03:36 PM
Never heard of that. I'd ask my dad but then he'd be like "speaking of which, when are you getting married?" Google it.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AndyDT on September 21, 2009, 04:59:13 AM
My dad doesn't ask me questions like that. At least yours takes an interest.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: chknptpie on September 21, 2009, 08:34:23 AM
Having dinner with my boyfriend and his grammy, she mentions Hawaii would be a great place for our honeymoon and that she cant wait for grandkids........

we've only been dating for 6 months grammy, chill!
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on September 21, 2009, 09:53:14 AM
Having dinner with my boyfriend and his grammy, she mentions Hawaii would be a great place for our honeymoon and that she cant wait for grandkids........

we've only been dating for 6 months grammy, chill!
I'm really happy for you, and I'm gonna let you finish, but the GD-side Chat Thread is one of the best chat threads of all time!
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on September 21, 2009, 01:29:13 PM
dammit emin.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on September 21, 2009, 01:32:45 PM
dammit emin.
Sigz, I'm really happy for you, and Imma let you finish, but Nick had one of the best dammit Nick of all time!
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on September 21, 2009, 02:37:00 PM
It doesn't even work... they've already finished.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on September 21, 2009, 05:00:40 PM
https://washingtonindependent.com/60172/sen-tom-coburns-r-okla-chief-of-staff-all-pornography-is-homosexual-pornography


Fail in its purest form.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on September 21, 2009, 06:17:19 PM
https://washingtonindependent.com/60172/sen-tom-coburns-r-okla-chief-of-staff-all-pornography-is-homosexual-pornography


Fail in its purest form.

Sounds like something Andy would say.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on September 22, 2009, 07:59:58 PM
I believe that Barack Obama was sent as the Marxist suffering messiah for an evil movement to establish the globally controlled state -- not necessarily the Marxist reigning messiah, though he may "hope." That is, his job is to destroy free America and if necessary, go down with the ship of state.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AndyDT on September 23, 2009, 06:50:08 AM
Boskputin - bring hither the bucket of soapy frogs and remove Disappear's trousers.  :angry:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on September 23, 2009, 10:22:11 PM
U.S. Condemned For Pre-Emptive Use Of Hillary Clinton Against Pakistan (https://www.theonion.com/content/video/u_s_condemned_for_pre_emptive_use)

BREAKING NEWS: BAT LOOSE IN CONGRESS (https://www.theonion.com/content/video/breaking_news_bat_loose_in)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: XianL on September 23, 2009, 10:31:23 PM
U.S. Condemned For Pre-Emptive Use Of Hillary Clinton Against Pakistan (https://www.theonion.com/content/video/u_s_condemned_for_pre_emptive_use)

BREAKING NEWS: BAT LOOSE IN CONGRESS (https://www.theonion.com/content/video/breaking_news_bat_loose_in)

Both were quite clever, but I can't decide which I liked more :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on September 23, 2009, 10:40:21 PM
U.S. Condemned For Pre-Emptive Use Of Hillary Clinton Against Pakistan (https://www.theonion.com/content/video/u_s_condemned_for_pre_emptive_use)

BREAKING NEWS: BAT LOOSE IN CONGRESS (https://www.theonion.com/content/video/breaking_news_bat_loose_in)

Both were quite clever, but I can't decide which I liked more :lol
They both really floored me. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on September 23, 2009, 11:09:40 PM
The HC one...wow. Just perfect. :rollin
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: ReaPsTA on September 23, 2009, 11:26:11 PM
The HC one...wow. Just perfect. :rollin

The best line is at the very end:

"Researchers are close to finding yet another cure for erectile dysfunction."
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on September 23, 2009, 11:29:45 PM
https://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,554760,00.html
https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/09/23/bill-sparkman-census-work_n_297220.html

But srsly, that's fucked up. This killed my buzz from watching the Onion vids.  :tdwn
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on September 24, 2009, 10:35:39 PM
This is something Disappear and Scheavo will love

https://www.noticias24.com/actualidad/noticia/91005/venezuela-prohibe-bajo-amenaza-de-sancion-la-emision-de-family-guy/

I'm sorry, but it's in Spanish. It says that "Venezuela prohibits the transmission of Family Guy because it supports the legalization of marijuana. Chavez considers that Venezuelans have been corrupted by American Capitalistic values and they need new humanistic moral codes". 

Thank God Big Brother decides what's good for you. I love how freedom reigns in Venezuela.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on September 24, 2009, 10:52:11 PM
Soo... I'm authoritarian to you, now? You do realize I'm pro-legalization of all drugs, and don't support censorship?


Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on September 24, 2009, 10:56:44 PM
You have so many contradictions with your ideals that it's remotely impossible to cope up. You have like a Tutti Frutti of ideals.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on September 24, 2009, 11:04:56 PM
Care to point out these contradictions?

Or, are these contradictions just the difference between the ideal your create out of me, and what I actually am?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on September 24, 2009, 11:08:46 PM
The ability to hold two beliefs that are in direct conflict with one another is a sign of intellectualism.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on September 24, 2009, 11:09:32 PM
This is something Disappear and Scheavo will love

https://www.noticias24.com/actualidad/noticia/91005/venezuela-prohibe-bajo-amenaza-de-sancion-la-emision-de-family-guy/

I'm sorry, but it's in Spanish. It says that "Venezuela prohibits the transmission of Family Guy because it supports the legalization of marijuana. Chavez considers that Venezuelans have been corrupted by American Capitalistic values and they need new humanistic moral codes".  

Thank God Big Brother decides what's good for you. I love how freedom reigns in Venezuela.

Wait, don't they censor stuff all the time and throw ppl in jail for smoking pot in the mostest freedomest country in the world? I would hardly call banning a show that promotes illegal drugs "dictatorship." It sounds like common sense conservatism to me.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on September 24, 2009, 11:13:49 PM
Like I said, Tutti frutti. One day you are socialist, one day you are a "libertarian", depending on your mood you tingle with social democracy. It's nothing coherent.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on September 24, 2009, 11:14:18 PM
This is something Disappear and Scheavo will love

https://www.noticias24.com/actualidad/noticia/91005/venezuela-prohibe-bajo-amenaza-de-sancion-la-emision-de-family-guy/

I'm sorry, but it's in Spanish. It says that "Venezuela prohibits the transmission of Family Guy because it supports the legalization of marijuana. Chavez considers that Venezuelans have been corrupted by American Capitalistic values and they need new humanistic moral codes". 

Thank God Big Brother decides what's good for you. I love how freedom reigns in Venezuela.

Wait, don't they censor stuff all the time and throw ppl in jail for smoking pot in the mostest freedomest country in the world? I would hardly call banning a show that promotes illegal drugs "dictatorship." It sounds like common sense conservatism to me.
Of course it is.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on September 24, 2009, 11:19:25 PM
That means every country that censors obscene programing is a dictatorship. Thankfully you are including USA, this makes me happy.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on September 24, 2009, 11:20:45 PM
Any country that tells you what you can watch on TV or not, follows the same pattern. Some have it in disguise some are more open towards it.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on September 24, 2009, 11:24:43 PM
Like I said, Tutti frutti. One day you are socialist, one day you are a "libertarian", depending on your mood you tingle with social democracy. It's nothing coherent.

Yes it is. Why are any of those mutually exclusive to one another? Could it possibly be that - just maybe - there are commonalities between socialism and classical liberalism / libertarianism? It's also not as if socialism or liberalism give a complete answer to the question of governance.  

Most importantly, notice how you just pointed to labels, and not my actual positions? (and isn't a social democratic a.. uh.. socalist?)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on September 24, 2009, 11:24:51 PM
Any country that tells you what you can watch on TV or not, follows the same pattern. Some have it in disguise some are more open towards it.
Um, they banned a show that was promoting an illegal drug. Hardly dictatorship. They'd do the same in USA.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on September 24, 2009, 11:35:06 PM
Any country that tells you what you can watch on TV or not, follows the same pattern. Some have it in disguise some are more open towards it.
Um, they banned a show that was promoting an illegal drug. Hardly dictatorship. They'd do the same in USA.
Is Family Guy banned in the USA?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on September 24, 2009, 11:39:47 PM
Like I said, Tutti frutti. One day you are socialist, one day you are a "libertarian", depending on your mood you tingle with social democracy. It's nothing coherent.

Yes it is. Why are any of those mutually exclusive to one another? Could it possibly be that - just maybe - there are commonalities between socialism and classical liberalism / libertarianism? It's also not as if socialism or liberalism give a complete answer to the question of governance. 

Most importantly, notice how you just pointed to labels, and not my actual positions? (and isn't a social democratic a.. uh.. socialist?)
At the last point, yeah, but they put democratic just to make it look nicer... like German Democratic Republic. It's a charade.

And for the rest, they turn up (the terms) contradicting each other, you know? The purpose is that they don't contradict so they can work correctly.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on September 24, 2009, 11:48:38 PM
Like I said, Tutti frutti. One day you are socialist, one day you are a "libertarian", depending on your mood you tingle with social democracy. It's nothing coherent.

Yes it is. Why are any of those mutually exclusive to one another? Could it possibly be that - just maybe - there are commonalities between socialism and classical liberalism / libertarianism? It's also not as if socialism or liberalism give a complete answer to the question of governance. 

Most importantly, notice how you just pointed to labels, and not my actual positions? (and isn't a social democratic a.. uh.. socialist?)


And for the rest, they turn up (the terms) contradicting each other, you know? The purpose is that they don't contradict so they can work correctly.

Huh? So the theories don't contradict each other?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on September 24, 2009, 11:52:16 PM
Any country that tells you what you can watch on TV or not, follows the same pattern. Some have it in disguise some are more open towards it.
Um, they banned a show that was promoting an illegal drug. Hardly dictatorship. They'd do the same in USA.
Is Family Guy banned in the USA?
No, to the dismay of conservatives. To the delight of them, Janet Jackson's titty is.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on September 25, 2009, 02:15:24 AM
Like I said, Tutti frutti. One day you are socialist, one day you are a "libertarian", depending on your mood you tingle with social democracy. It's nothing coherent.
Pidgeonhole people more why don't you?

P.S. Family Guy should just be banned because it's shit.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on September 25, 2009, 07:12:30 AM
Like I said, Tutti frutti. One day you are socialist, one day you are a "libertarian", depending on your mood you tingle with social democracy. It's nothing coherent.
Pidgeonhole people more why don't you?

P.S. Family Guy should just be banned because it's shit.
No pigeon-hole, read his posts.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on September 25, 2009, 02:08:29 PM
Like I said, Tutti frutti. One day you are socialist, one day you are a "libertarian", depending on your mood you tingle with social democracy. It's nothing coherent.
Pidgeonhole people more why don't you?

P.S. Family Guy should just be banned because it's shit.
No pigeon-hole, read his posts.

His point is that your pigeon-holing me into labels, and then saying I contradict myself becuase of those labels.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on September 25, 2009, 03:51:55 PM
Exactly but you have to give him a break. It's difficult to see points when you're purposefully trying to ignore them.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on September 25, 2009, 04:17:41 PM
Meh, seems like a symptom of his dogmatism to me.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on September 26, 2009, 02:34:00 PM
NR:

Quote
When you say something is a slippery slope fallacy, you aren't making any qualitative statements about the person's conclusion. You are making a statement about their logic. As in, not the end, but the means. Your conclusion could very well come true, but that doesn't mean the argument you gave for it was rational and not fallacious.

Basically, an argument uses the slippery slope fallacy when they state that a - > b -> c -> d -> e, and e is bad, therefore we shouldn't do a. It's when you give a long trail of possible events, but which quite easily could not occur. So the reason why your "counter examples" don't matter is becuase it's irrelevant to what is fallacious about a slippery slope. A could lead to b, which could lead to, which could lead to d, which could lead to e, but there's no reason why it has to lead to e. If you start giving reasons why each one has to lead to the other, than you're not being fallacious. A good example of a slippery slope fallacy in today's world is the idea that legalizing gay marriage is somehow going to lead to legalizing bestiality and animal marriages. Could such a series of events play out? I can't say they can't, but it's also absurd to think that they will.

And if you could list one of your "counter examples," in full, I could possibly try and answer your question more fully.




Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on September 28, 2009, 01:21:39 AM
https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/Health/president-obamas-irish-ancestors-reformed-19th-century-health/story?id=8675385&cid=wkstmbl

I wonder if there's a gene for that...
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: YtseBitsySpider on September 28, 2009, 12:10:25 PM
probably old news....but Chicago's Olympic Committy must be pleased with the person presenting their bid for them.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on September 29, 2009, 03:43:30 PM
Does anyone else keep on reading the thread titled "The FDA's ban on fruit flavored cigarettes is baseless" as "The FDA's ban on fruit flavored cigarettes is badass"?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nick on September 29, 2009, 09:27:47 PM
Ron Paul just rocked the Daily Show with amazing levels of win.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: pogoowner on September 29, 2009, 09:29:34 PM
Ron Paul just rocked the Daily Show with amazing levels of win.
I'll have to find it on Youtube or something later.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nick on September 29, 2009, 09:34:08 PM
You'll be able to go to www.thedailyshow.com to see it.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on September 30, 2009, 12:06:46 PM
Does anyone else keep on reading the thread titled "The FDA's ban on fruit flavored cigarettes is baseless" as "The FDA's ban on fruit flavored cigarettes is badass"?
I keep reading it as "The FDA's ban on fruit flavored cigarettes is tasteless." :neverusethis:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on September 30, 2009, 02:19:14 PM
You know it's a thread by AndyDT when by the time you're done trying to figure it out, it's locked.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on September 30, 2009, 02:41:32 PM
My brain hurts trying to decipher his point there. And I thought I was cryptic... :|
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AndyDT on October 01, 2009, 07:12:29 AM
My brain hurts trying to decipher his point there. And I thought I was cryptic... :|

You don't see Germany's "cultural" exclusion of Turkey from the EU as racism? Or Berlusconi repeatedly calling Obama and his wife "tanned" as racism? Is this the same Disappear I'm talking to.

As for the topic getting locked it seems to rather prove the point I made that racism is ok, if it's continental Europe. You imagine a British or American person calling an Indian American politician as "tanned" or a white politician as "untanned" perhaps and them not being held to account for it.

I think some Americans have a weirdly rosy view of Continental politics like because it's tradiitionally more statist it's some benign entity. Aside from the EU being far beyond statist and statism being highly contentious to say the least, you don't seem to realise that Europe is vociferously "racist" by the developed English-speaking world's standards. Many people there have an almost spiritual association with the land they inhabit which they consider is theirs as the original white settlers. They don't come here and try to justify it or feel the need to - many are passionate about this and believe it is worth defending on those terms.

So you often get continental European countries trying to keep out or put down the "other". Millions voted for Le Pen in France,  abuse of black British footballers almost every time a game is played in Spain, Berlusconi making "gaffs" (as if somehow he couldn't help it), Germany stating that long-time NATO ally Turkey, a secular country, should be excluded from the EU on "cultural" grounds.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AndyDT on October 01, 2009, 07:17:19 AM
And as for the EU being far beyond statist, it's now come full circle to reveal what it was about all along: the domination of conitnental Europe by a united France and Germany:

https://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/europe/article6856174.ece

"Joschka Fischer, a former German Foreign Minister, said the Franco-German axis had to come into its own again whatever the fate of the Lisbon treaty. The centre of gravity of Europe can only be Paris and Berlin, he told Le Monde last weekend. Britain has decided to stay on the edge. Italy is . . . Italy. Poland has a way to come. Spain is buried in deep crisis.

The prospect of Britain electing a Eurosceptic Conservative government is said to have removed any French qualms and Mr Sarkozy has buried the differences with Ms Merkel that dogged the first 18 months of his presidency. He has appointed Germanophile officials, including Bruno Le Maire, his new German-speaking Agriculture Minister, given the task of securing a deal on Common Agriculture Policy spending. Mr Sarkozy and Ms Merkel have found common ground since the crisis of 2008, standing together against London and Washington over bankers pay and tax havens "


The Irish vote on the Lisbon Treaty tomorrow IIRC, I hope they remember this.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on October 01, 2009, 10:43:45 AM
Interesting. Thanks for clearing it up. Not having lived in Europe for long periods of time I can't make judgments on racial attitudes there.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on October 01, 2009, 03:25:56 PM
(https://jimmycarter08.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/olympian1.jpg)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: YtseBitsySpider on October 02, 2009, 05:39:47 AM
LOL@Jack Thompson

https://www.afterdawn.com/news/archive/19702.cfm
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on October 02, 2009, 06:05:03 AM
 :facepalm:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: XianL on October 02, 2009, 07:52:07 AM
LOL@Jack Thompson

https://www.afterdawn.com/news/archive/19702.cfm

Jack Thompson, when will you stop being ridiculous? :rollin :rollin
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: TheVoxyn on October 02, 2009, 08:10:21 AM
 :facepalm: :facepalm: :facepalm:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on October 02, 2009, 12:29:39 PM
lol....what a cry baby. Disbarred too.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on October 02, 2009, 03:42:09 PM
Thank you for changing your signature NR.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on October 02, 2009, 03:46:35 PM
Awesome avatar.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on October 02, 2009, 03:49:55 PM
Makes me want to play some Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles on SNES...
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on October 02, 2009, 03:57:05 PM
Uhh...yeah.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on October 02, 2009, 04:47:01 PM
Thank you for changing your signature NR.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on October 03, 2009, 12:08:34 AM
Thank you for changing your signature NR.

You guys have no sense of humor.

Or bad internet connection.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on October 03, 2009, 03:34:51 AM
It didn't load correctly at work and it used to drive me insane.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on October 03, 2009, 03:37:46 AM
lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on October 04, 2009, 04:45:37 PM
(https://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Observer/Pix/pictures/2009/9/29/1254235537236/Patients-without-medical--001.jpg)
Patients without medical insurance wait for treatment in the Forum, a music arena in Inglewood, Los Angeles. The 1,500 free places were filled by 4am. Photograph: John Moore/Getty Images (https://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2009/oct/04/california-failing-state-debt)

Get a job, moochers.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on October 04, 2009, 11:01:24 PM
You are like Micheal mooooooooo-re.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on October 04, 2009, 11:36:40 PM
He is a saint to me. One of the really fat ones. The soda tax is gonna hit him pretty hard I'm afraid.  :'(
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on October 05, 2009, 12:42:03 AM
You are like Micheal mooooooooo-re.

So you don't think it's a bad sign that people come out in big numbers for these free health care events?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on October 05, 2009, 01:45:09 AM
Quote
So you don't think it's a bad sign that people come out in big numbers for these free health care events?

Name to me a product that a lot of people want that is normally expensive which wont draw a huge crowd if you announce you are giving it away for free.

Couldn't do it? I wonder why.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on October 05, 2009, 02:13:03 AM
Quote
So you don't think it's a bad sign that people come out in big numbers for these free health care events?

Name to me a product that a lot of people want that is normally expensive which wont draw a huge crowd if you announce you are giving it away for free.

Couldn't do it? I wonder why.


Except, I think the problem is in the question. Of course expensive products are goin to draw big crowds, but that's becomes in order for something to qualify has a product it has to have certain features. It also seems, to me, to be part of the problem with our health care system.  

By the way, the problem isn't just that so many people show up, it's that many of them show up in terrible condition. It's not as if people aer showing up to wait all day because they have a cold. And to partialy answer your question, and show why it's biased, in other countries with universal health care, you wouldn't "draw a big crowd" if you offered free health care. The people who did show up probably woudln't be in the condition they are here, either. They have "free" health care if they need it when they first need it. Countries which have events like this are generally called "the third world."

But this isn't a problem?

(by the way, also very noticeably an appeal to ignorance fallacy)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on October 05, 2009, 03:42:54 AM
I think you grossly underestimate the appeal of "free" shit.

Quote
the problem isn't just that so many people show up, it's that many of them show up in terrible condition.

This seems relative. If your talking about health care its going to be a lot of people who dont have any and are therefore less healthy. If your talking about food it will be likely those underfed. etc.

There will also be a large number of people who do not necessarily need or want what you have to give away, but are trying to take advantage of anything they can to get any benefit they can

Quote
and show why it's biased, in other countries with universal health care, you wouldn't "draw a big crowd" if you offered free health care.

Again I think you grossly underestimate the appeal.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on October 05, 2009, 10:40:26 AM
Healthcare in USA needs to stop being seen as a product and start being seen as a right, like in all other civilized countries. For-profit insurance companies must be banned.

I think too much of the debate focuses on the monetary aspect and seldom do we remind ourselves that it is the morally right thing to do. If we reintroduced reform as a moral imperative I have a feeling it would give even the most unworldly, unrealistic, comfortable, middle class single white male lolertarians pause.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on October 05, 2009, 11:57:45 AM
I think you grossly underestimate the appeal of "free" shit.

Quote
the problem isn't just that so many people show up, it's that many of them show up in terrible condition.

This seems relative. If your talking about health care its going to be a lot of people who dont have any and are therefore less healthy. If your talking about food it will be likely those underfed. etc.

There will also be a large number of people who do not necessarily need or want what you have to give away, but are trying to take advantage of anything they can to get any benefit they can

You don't see what's wrong with the fact that there's this many poor people? You don't think that speaks ill of our society? You seem willing to simply state the facts, and ignore what the consequences of those facts are. There's many cases of events like this in America.

And those people aren't going to wait in line all day for medical attention. Would you get up by 4am for something you don't need or want? How about taking off work, on your birthday, to take your elderly parents to the event we're talking about?

Quote
Quote
and show why it's biased, in other countries with universal health care, you wouldn't "draw a big crowd" if you offered free health care.

Again I think you grossly underestimate the appeal.

I think you're overestimating the appeal and grossly underestimating what this says about our Country and our health care system.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on October 05, 2009, 12:26:32 PM
Quote
You don't see what's wrong with the fact that there's this many poor people? You don't think that speaks ill of our society? You seem willing to simply state the facts, and ignore what the consequences of those facts are. There's many cases of events like this in America.

Nope. Poor people will always exist as long as people exist. No different form of government or less government will fix that. Even if you gave all the poor people in the USA 20,000 bucks many of them would still walk around begging for change.

Quote
And those people aren't going to wait in line all day for medical attention. Would you get up by 4am for something you don't need or want? How about taking off work, on your birthday, to take your elderly parents to the event we're talking about?

Where are you pulling this scenario from? It is indisputable that people who don't need what is being offered will take as much as they can of whatever they may not need just in case. Are we suppose to assume every single person attending that event had a serious condition that needed tending?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on October 05, 2009, 12:40:32 PM
https://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20091005/lf_afp/undevelopmentpoverty;_ylt=AgvGbk6Eqm5.6_mSk8cBn1is0NUE;_ylu=X3oDMTM3ZWQ1dThuBGFzc2V0A2FmcC8yMDA5MTAwNS91bmRldmVsb3BtZW50cG92ZXJ0eQRjcG9zAzgEcG9zAzUEcHQDaG9tZV9jb2tlBHNlYwN5bl9oZWFkbGluZV9saXN0BHNsawNub3J3YXlpc2J

That's a response to the idea that, "there will always bee poor people, therefore we can't do anything." That's an absurd notion. There will always be rape, does that mean we shouldn't do anything about it? There's also the fact that realizing there will always be poor people is a far cry from saying if they can't afford health care, then they should die. 45,000 people die each year becuase of a lack of health insurance.

Oh, and I got that scenario from story disappear linked to. And yes, you're suppose to infer that most people there had serious reasons for being there. Just start looking at similiar events across the country, listen to people were there, etc. Most of the idea behind this is to get people who really need the attention. Why else would people stay in line all night?  (Are you really comparing health care to a harry potter movie?) Unless there was a flood of hypochondriacs, most people aren't going to stand in line all night to get medical care they don't need.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Disappear on October 05, 2009, 01:22:06 PM
The Lolertarian solution is: do nothing. It's a notion pushed by comfortable single middle class males.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on October 05, 2009, 05:18:55 PM
Quote
The Lolertarian solution is: do nothing. It's a notion pushed by comfortable single middle class males.

No that clearly shows how consistently you misconstrue the facts. Libertarians just don't want the government doing it by legislative force with our tax dollars. In fact, privately funded and managed homeless shelters and events are usually more successful by comparison anyway.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on October 07, 2009, 02:42:32 PM
I don't see any reason to start a thread since I figure we'd all agree that it was pretty fucked up.  It's a good read though so I'm throwing it out here for people to check out.  Cameron Todd Willingham (https://www.newyorker.com/reporting/2009/09/07/090907fa_fact_grann?currentPage=1)


Likely innocent fellow executed on the basis of highly faulty forensic evidence.  It's been in the news down here because Governor Perry recently dismissed most of an investigative panel just days before they began their public inquiry which would have been seriously scathing.  Perry has steadfastly maintained that the guy was guilty and doesn't want to be called out before what will be a hotly contested primary for his re-election.  The new panel probably won't reconvene until after the election. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on October 07, 2009, 05:35:16 PM
Comparing the Democratic Party to the Nazis is ridiculous. After all the Nazis got the Olympics.

Badum Tush!
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nick on October 08, 2009, 07:31:26 AM
Comparing the Democratic Party to the Nazis is ridiculous. After all the Nazis got the Olympics.

Badum Tush!

Well done sir, well done.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MetalMike06 on October 10, 2009, 05:56:32 PM
https://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2009/oct/11/armenia-turkey-deal-off

Can't believe it's actually happening.  :-\
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: XJDenton on October 10, 2009, 05:59:23 PM
Don't know much about the situation but it seems to be a step in the right direction for the two countries.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MetalMike06 on October 10, 2009, 06:02:10 PM
From a purely economical standpoint, it's probably for the better. But I'm still really undecided about it as a whole.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on October 18, 2009, 01:19:55 PM
(https://i36.tinypic.com/29mt6hs.jpg)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Fuzzboy on October 18, 2009, 02:05:46 PM
 :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on October 18, 2009, 03:46:12 PM
Woah, liberals don't have to pay taxes? I've never known that.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on October 18, 2009, 06:03:46 PM
Woah, liberals don't have to pay taxes? I've never known that.

Damn I shoulda registered as a Democrat then.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on October 18, 2009, 06:33:06 PM
Woah, liberals don't have to pay taxes? I've never known that.

Damn I shoulda registered as a Democrat then.

Same. I'd feel dirty registering as a Democrat, but free taxes are so worth it.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on October 21, 2009, 05:13:15 PM
Something that annoys me, though probably doesn't deserve it's own thread.  According to the 2007 UCR, 475 kids were murdered by their parents.  It's newsworthy in the town it happens in, less so at the state level, and irrelevant to the national news.  That is unless it's an honor killing by a culture we don't like (https://www.cnn.com/2009/CRIME/10/21/arizona.iraqi.daughter.struck/index.html?eref=igoogle_cnn).  Any time Akhmed kills (or in this case tries to kill) his daughter because she dresses like a slut, it's front page news everywhere.  Fox, I completely understand; they have a job to do.  But CNN?  I expect better from my liberal media.  They should just stick to reporting only gang related murders and those of pretty white girls (but only if they got a good rogering first).
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on October 21, 2009, 07:28:36 PM
Our entire Mass Media is one lumping pile of steaming shit.


Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Progmetty on October 23, 2009, 04:42:03 AM
I think the roll call thread was a great idea, why was it closed?!?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: millahh on October 23, 2009, 07:55:09 AM
I think the roll call thread was a great idea, why was it closed?!?

For maintenance.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on October 23, 2009, 03:33:47 PM
Our entire Mass Media is one lumping pile of steaming shit.




Yep. Fox is super right, MSNBC is totally pro-Obama, and CNN is just retarded.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on October 24, 2009, 03:01:51 AM
Our entire Mass Media is one lumping pile of steaming shit.




Yep. Fox is super right, MSNBC is totally pro-Obama, and CNN is just retarded.

Fox isn't even news anymore. Obama's not going to win the fight, but he's right.

And as pro-Obama MSNBC is, they're far from being what Fox "News" was with Bush. Not that this serves as an excuse.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AndyDT on October 31, 2009, 04:30:58 PM
Arnie's view of world government?

(https://aftermathnews.files.wordpress.com/2007/07/un_secretary_general_schwarzenegger.jpg)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Quadrochosis on November 01, 2009, 07:39:05 PM
Our entire Mass Media is one lumping pile of steaming shit.

Yep. Fox is super right, MSNBC is totally pro-Obama, and CNN is just retarded.

This, although I enjoy Glenn Beck, as crazy and insane as he is.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: millahh on November 03, 2009, 08:03:17 AM
Testing
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on November 03, 2009, 05:35:39 PM
One

Two
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on November 10, 2009, 08:18:47 AM
I'd just like to see Rumbo and Adami, that Andy spoof thread was epic, short-lived as it was.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on November 10, 2009, 02:45:17 PM
For anybody keeping  up with the Willingham case down here in Tejas.
New head of Texas Forensic Science Commission says he'll protect panel's integrity (https://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/dn/latestnews/stories/111109dntexforensics.2a2f7b127.html)
Quite a few things really jumped out at me.  Not the least of which is that they have no intention whatsoever of getting this thing moving before the March primaries.  Hearing some of these guys defend the conviction on the grounds that he was a monster is rather unsettling. 

I also found quite fascinating the difference between how two people view the backlog of 1000 rape kits.  One is concerned about the 1000 people that might be in prison right now, and the other is concerned about the 1000 people that aren't imprisoned right now. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on November 10, 2009, 02:47:57 PM
I'd just like to see Rumbo and Adami, that Andy spoof thread was epic, short-lived as it was.

Despite the insulting title, it wasn't meant to be a spoof. I just needed something to grab his attention. I was honestly hoping to contain his views into one thread. It seems he's the only troll who can't get in trouble, so I figured he's better off contained somehow.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: millahh on November 10, 2009, 02:49:09 PM
What's KBH's take on all of this?  Is it becoming a primary issue?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: millahh on November 10, 2009, 02:49:42 PM
I'd just like to see Rumbo and Adami, that Andy spoof thread was epic, short-lived as it was.

Despite the insulting title, it wasn't meant to be a spoof. I just needed something to grab his attention. I was honestly hoping to contain his views into one thread. It seems he's the only troll who can't get in trouble, so I figured he's better off contained somehow.

I've since directed him to keep it to a single trhread.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on November 10, 2009, 02:50:37 PM
I'd just like to see Rumbo and Adami, that Andy spoof thread was epic, short-lived as it was.

Despite the insulting title, it wasn't meant to be a spoof. I just needed something to grab his attention. I was honestly hoping to contain his views into one thread. It seems he's the only troll who can't get in trouble, so I figured he's better off contained somehow.

I've since directed him to keep it to a single trhread.

I really do appreciate that. I would love to see many of the things here discussed, however when it just turns into an anti eu thread,  and then everyone yelling at andy, it ruins it.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: millahh on November 10, 2009, 02:53:47 PM
I'd just like to see Rumbo and Adami, that Andy spoof thread was epic, short-lived as it was.

Despite the insulting title, it wasn't meant to be a spoof. I just needed something to grab his attention. I was honestly hoping to contain his views into one thread. It seems he's the only troll who can't get in trouble, so I figured he's better off contained somehow.

I've since directed him to keep it to a single trhread.

I really do appreciate that. I would love to see many of the things here discussed, however when it just turns into an anti eu thread,  and then everyone yelling at andy, it ruins it.

Unfortunately, that happens with the topic du jour around here frequently, usually having nothing to do with any one poster.  Global warming, Libertarianism, free market, biblical literalism, the EU.  I attempt to keep things somewhat on the rails, but it can be like a bit challenging...
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on November 10, 2009, 02:56:21 PM
And as I said, I do appreciate it. I realize I have done my share of de-railing and wrecking threads, but I promise to knock it off as of right now. I hope others can do the same thing.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on November 10, 2009, 02:58:19 PM
Her position is tactically quite sound.  She's a staunch supporter of the death penalty, as is required to be elected governor, so she's focusing her attack on Perry's politicalization of the process which she claims is providing ammunition to the bleeding hearts.  She's avoiding the question of whether or not CTW was guilty, but using the issue to paint Perry as soft on capital punishment.

Quote
“As hard as Rick Perry’s office and his campaign may try to divert from the issue, this is not about one man or one case. The issue is Rick Perry’s heavy-handed politicization of a process and Commission established by the legislature to provide critical oversight. First, Rick Perry delayed the formation of the Texas Forensic Science Commission, then he tried to ensure it didn’t have funding and when all else failed, he fired everyone he could. The only thing Rick Perry’s actions have accomplished is giving liberals an argument to discredit the death penalty. Kay Bailey Hutchison is a steadfast supporter of the death penalty, voted to reinstate it when she served in the Texas House and believes we should never do anything to create a cloud of controversy over it with actions that look like a cover-up.”

Pretty damn clever, in a monstrous sort of way.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on November 14, 2009, 08:59:48 AM
https://www.theonion.com/content/news/area_man_passionate_defender_of?utm_source=onion_rss_daily
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on November 22, 2009, 01:53:39 PM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ZXEShSIFks

Obama & Hu Jintao SNL :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on November 24, 2009, 03:24:54 PM
So as not to further derail the fascinating war on sexuality that Silent Fox and Andy are waging, I'll continue this topic here:

Mating season is for animals which don't construct shelters, and thus need to have their youngs grow to appropriate maturity before the next winter comes. Given we started building shelters at some point, we could have offspring year-round, and obviously the mammal/human that produces more "throughput" quickly replaces the genetic makeup of the whole population.

rumborak

There was a long period of time where man had shelter, but hadn't figured out cultivation or domestication.  Being hunter/gatherers, you'd think we would have some kind of innate schedule hardwired into us to breed when there was an abundance of chow.

Wouldn't be useful though, unless our bodies could predict 9 months in advance when we would have lots of food.
Our brains certainly can predict it, and mating seasons are hormonal. 

I could understand that in the case of an agricultural society, but for a hunter/gatherer society?
I found this on the subject:
Quote
Archaeologists have determined that by 2,500 years BP (before present), a subsistence-settlement strategy called the winter village pattern was widely established among hunter-gatherers on the Columbia River Plateau in northwest North America. In this strategy, hunter-gatherers dispersed into smaller groups during spring through fall as they collected food resources in bulk quantities for winter consumption. During winter, they aggregated in larger groups at permanent villages situated in low-elevation riverine environments, where they subsisted on stored food supplies augmented by hunting and fishing.
While food might not have been as big a problem as I had though, they were still very sensible about the weather and the seasons.  As such, you'd think they might have developed a sense for when the best time to get knocked up would be.  While food is still a factor, there are other factors as well, not the least of which is "it's fucking cold!"
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: 73109 on November 28, 2009, 11:16:09 PM
Hey. First post here. I am just really bored and looking to do stupid shit that I have not done in the first couple of months here on DTF, so...yeah...here I am. Posting in the P&R chat thread! :metal :metal :metal
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: millahh on November 29, 2009, 01:23:22 PM
I'm baaaaccckkkkk....
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AndyDT on December 04, 2009, 10:24:11 AM
I'm baaaaccckkkkk....
Where've you been?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: millahh on December 04, 2009, 10:41:08 AM
I'm baaaaccckkkkk....
Where've you been?

Over in your neck of the woods (relatively speaking)...London & Paris.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AndyDT on December 04, 2009, 01:06:52 PM
What are your thoughts on London?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on December 04, 2009, 04:41:22 PM
There's a hole in the world like a great black pit
and the vermin of the world inhabit it
and its morals aren't worth what a pig could spit
and it goes by the name of London.

At the top of the hole sit the privileged few
Making mock of the vermin in the lower zoo
turning beauty to filth and greed...

I too have sailed the world and seen its wonders,
for the cruelty of men is as wonderous as Peru
but there's no place like London!
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: 73109 on December 04, 2009, 05:03:58 PM
There's a hole in the world like a great black pit
and the vermin of the world inhabit it
and its morals aren't worth what a pig could spit
and it goes by the name of London.

At the top of the hole sit the privileged few
Making mock of the vermin in the lower zoo
turning beauty to filth and greed...

I too have sailed the world and seen its wonders,
for the cruelty of men is as wonderous as Peru
but there's no place like London!

Great fuckin movie...I have not seen the play.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on December 04, 2009, 09:03:11 PM
(https://whatreallyhappened.com/IMAGES/warpresident.jpg)


Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on December 08, 2009, 07:10:43 PM
Huh? No one knows what to do about global warming? That's just simply not true. The solution to global warming is quite simple: stop polluting the environment with greenhouse gases. If we're causing warming, the affects will peter out.

This is my main issue with those who want to make drastic policy issues that will affect everyone.  Let me use a car analogy to explain what I mean:

If I am driving my car with a lead foot, I will be wearing out the engine faster.  There is a solid cause and effect relationship here, and something can be done about it.  Hence why I agree with TV that we should focus on things we are certain about.

On the other hand, if I'm at the shop for a routine repair, and am told that I need to spend thousands of dollars to fix a problem they "think" is caused by my driving habits, and if so, the repair "might" fix it, I would laugh and say "no thanks, I need a little more convincing". 

Your analogy makes no sense on many levels.

For one, if the problem is caused by yoru driving habits, why is there any fix to be paid for? You're making the alternative irrational to support your conclusion. Global warming would be much more analogous to the first example, where the solution is quick and simple: change habits.

Secondly, if you took your car to every single mechanic in your area, and had 97% of them suggest the fix, would you still doubt that it's a problem?

Thirdly, green technology is a money saver. So for the example to work, it would have to be more like, "I am told that if I spend a thousand dollars now, I'll save three thousand over the course of several years - and I may or may not solve the problem. Meanwhile, while the fix may not fix this exact problem, it will fix other problems that are wrong with your car." I can't imagine why you would turn down this offer, even if you somehow knew their fix to be a "fix." To put this in terms of global warming, and reducing CO2 emissions, greener technology will save us money, and pollute less. Car emissions are still bad, global warming or not.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Fiery Winds on December 09, 2009, 09:41:09 AM
Huh? No one knows what to do about global warming? That's just simply not true. The solution to global warming is quite simple: stop polluting the environment with greenhouse gases. If we're causing warming, the affects will peter out.

This is my main issue with those who want to make drastic policy issues that will affect everyone.  Let me use a car analogy to explain what I mean:

If I am driving my car with a lead foot, I will be wearing out the engine faster.  There is a solid cause and effect relationship here, and something can be done about it.  Hence why I agree with TV that we should focus on things we are certain about.

On the other hand, if I'm at the shop for a routine repair, and am told that I need to spend thousands of dollars to fix a problem they "think" is caused by my driving habits, and if so, the repair "might" fix it, I would laugh and say "no thanks, I need a little more convincing". 

Your analogy makes no sense on many levels.

For one, if the problem is caused by yoru driving habits, why is there any fix to be paid for? You're making the alternative irrational to support your conclusion. Global warming would be much more analogous to the first example, where the solution is quick and simple: change habits.

Secondly, if you took your car to every single mechanic in your area, and had 97% of them suggest the fix, would you still doubt that it's a problem?

Thirdly, green technology is a money saver. So for the example to work, it would have to be more like, "I am told that if I spend a thousand dollars now, I'll save three thousand over the course of several years - and I may or may not solve the problem. Meanwhile, while the fix may not fix this exact problem, it will fix other problems that are wrong with your car." I can't imagine why you would turn down this offer, even if you somehow knew their fix to be a "fix." To put this in terms of global warming, and reducing CO2 emissions, greener technology will save us money, and pollute less. Car emissions are still bad, global warming or not.


I admit, my analogy isn't an exact carryover.  Before I clarify my position, let me be clear on where I stand with green technology.  I do not have anything against green technology and improving our environment.  I can't wait to see what new technology will be available for energy sources, whether it be improved alternative sources we know now, or completely new technologies we haven't seen yet. 

Whether or not climate change can be controlled by humans, we will eventually move to alternative forms of energy.  Fossil fuels won't last forever.  The ingenuity of the human mind wants to improve the efficiency and decrease the cost of providing energy. 

Back to my original argument, I don't believe there is conclusive evidence that we are the primary cause of climate change (which you implied in your post).  The only concrete evidence we have is the temperature record, which we all agree has risen, but is now remained steady for the past decade or so.  The only evidence proclaiming doom and gloom is provided by computer models.  I don't mean that to discount the usefulness of computer modeling, especially since I'm not fully knowledgeable on them, but I cannot put more trust in a computer model predicting the global climate 10 to 90 years in the future, than I would a computer model predicting the local 5 day forecast. 

Like I said before, I think green technology is great, and we are moving in that direction, but it's not happening as fast as you would like.  I personally, don't see the need to rush.

Quote
So, with your argument, when an obese person goes to the doctor and gets told to change his lifestyle since he otherwise will have a premature death 10 years down the road, the correct answer is "no thanks, that is too vague and too far into the future, I need a little more convincing."?

rumborak

Like I said above, my analogy wasn't the greatest, but it will still fit here I suppose.  The difference is that the doctor has seen concrete evidence from the complete life of thousands of obese patients, and that evidence always concludes that an obese patient will die prematurely.  The doctor may not be able to predict exactly how long of course, but there is solid evidence (not modeling) that this will occur.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: rumborak on December 09, 2009, 09:52:13 AM
Back to my original argument, I don't believe there is conclusive evidence that we are the primary cause of climate change (which you implied in your post).  The only concrete evidence we have is the temperature record, which we all agree has risen, but is now remained steady for the past decade or so.  The only evidence proclaiming doom and gloom is provided by computer models.  I don't mean that to discount the usefulness of computer modeling, especially since I'm not fully knowledgeable on them, but I cannot put more trust in a computer model predicting the global climate 10 to 90 years in the future, than I would a computer model predicting the local 5 day forecast.  

Ugh. So, you just discredited the whole scientific foundation of mathematical modeling. No offense, but just because you don't know how it works doesn't mean it's not correct.

Frankly, the more I read the anti-GW arguments here (by WW, Andy, and you), the more I have the impression it's heavily based on the "black magic" impression some of you have of predictive modeling. That is, you don't know how it works, and thus it must be implicitly distrusted.

rumborak
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on December 09, 2009, 10:00:07 AM
Huh? No one knows what to do about global warming? That's just simply not true. The solution to global warming is quite simple: stop polluting the environment with greenhouse gases. If we're causing warming, the affects will peter out.

This is my main issue with those who want to make drastic policy issues that will affect everyone.  Let me use a car analogy to explain what I mean:

If I am driving my car with a lead foot, I will be wearing out the engine faster.  There is a solid cause and effect relationship here, and something can be done about it.  Hence why I agree with TV that we should focus on things we are certain about.

On the other hand, if I'm at the shop for a routine repair, and am told that I need to spend thousands of dollars to fix a problem they "think" is caused by my driving habits, and if so, the repair "might" fix it, I would laugh and say "no thanks, I need a little more convincing". 

Your analogy makes no sense on many levels.

For one, if the problem is caused by yoru driving habits, why is there any fix to be paid for? You're making the alternative irrational to support your conclusion. Global warming would be much more analogous to the first example, where the solution is quick and simple: change habits.

Secondly, if you took your car to every single mechanic in your area, and had 97% of them suggest the fix, would you still doubt that it's a problem?

Thirdly, green technology is a money saver. So for the example to work, it would have to be more like, "I am told that if I spend a thousand dollars now, I'll save three thousand over the course of several years - and I may or may not solve the problem. Meanwhile, while the fix may not fix this exact problem, it will fix other problems that are wrong with your car." I can't imagine why you would turn down this offer, even if you somehow knew their fix to be a "fix." To put this in terms of global warming, and reducing CO2 emissions, greener technology will save us money, and pollute less. Car emissions are still bad, global warming or not.


I admit, my analogy isn't an exact carryover.  Before I clarify my position, let me be clear on where I stand with green technology.  I do not have anything against green technology and improving our environment.  I can't wait to see what new technology will be available for energy sources, whether it be improved alternative sources we know now, or completely new technologies we haven't seen yet. 

Whether or not climate change can be controlled by humans, we will eventually move to alternative forms of energy.  Fossil fuels won't last forever.  The ingenuity of the human mind wants to improve the efficiency and decrease the cost of providing energy. 

Back to my original argument, I don't believe there is conclusive evidence that we are the primary cause of climate change (which you implied in your post).  The only concrete evidence we have is the temperature record, which we all agree has risen, but is now remained steady for the past decade or so.  The only evidence proclaiming doom and gloom is provided by computer models.  I don't mean that to discount the usefulness of computer modeling, especially since I'm not fully knowledgeable on them, but I cannot put more trust in a computer model predicting the global climate 10 to 90 years in the future, than I would a computer model predicting the local 5 day forecast. 

I think warming depends upon how you want to look at it.

https://www.wmo.int/pages/mediacentre/press_releases/pr_869_en.html

Quote
Geneva, 8 December 2009 (WMO) – The year 2009 is likely to rank in the top 10 warmest on record since the beginning of instrumental climate records in 1850, according to data sources compiled by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). The global combined sea surface and land surface air temperature for 2009 (January–October) is currently estimated at 0.44°C ± 0.11°C (0.79°F ± 0.20°F) above the 1961–1990 annual average of 14.00°C/57.2°F. The current nominal ranking of 2009, which does not account for uncertainties in the annual averages, places it as the fifth-warmest year. The decade of the 2000s (2000–2009) was warmer than the decade spanning the 1990s (1990–1999), which in turn was warmer than the 1980s (1980–1989). More complete data for the remainder of the year 2009 will be analysed at the beginning of 2010 to update the current assessment.

It seems that when people say there has been a recent lack of warming, they mean that the highs have not gotten higher. But the average temperatures have still risen globally.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on December 11, 2009, 01:06:35 PM
Just watched The Simpsons episode where Sideshow Bob becomes mayor. Some damn funny jabs at that radio host "Rush Limbaugh" in there:

"those Dumbocrats and their bleeding-heart smellfare program"
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on December 11, 2009, 01:17:33 PM
Just watched The Simpsons episode where Sideshow Bob becomes mayor. Some damn funny jabs at that radio host "Rush Limbaugh" in there:

"those Dumbocrats and their bleeding-heart smellfare program"
The commercial is absolutely perfect.

"Mayor Quimby once even released Sideshow Bob from prison.  A man twice convicted of attempted murder.  Vote Sideshow Bob."

Didn't that episode also have also have Bob Dole reading from the Necromicon at the Republican convention?  Great stuff.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on December 11, 2009, 02:01:40 PM
The advert was awesome :lol

Hmmm, I don't think the Bob Dole bit was in it. I could be wrong though...bad memory.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AndyDT on December 11, 2009, 02:08:07 PM
Back to my original argument, I don't believe there is conclusive evidence that we are the primary cause of climate change (which you implied in your post).  The only concrete evidence we have is the temperature record, which we all agree has risen, but is now remained steady for the past decade or so.  The only evidence proclaiming doom and gloom is provided by computer models.  I don't mean that to discount the usefulness of computer modeling, especially since I'm not fully knowledgeable on them, but I cannot put more trust in a computer model predicting the global climate 10 to 90 years in the future, than I would a computer model predicting the local 5 day forecast.  

Ugh. So, you just discredited the whole scientific foundation of mathematical modeling. No offense, but just because you don't know how it works doesn't mean it's not correct.
Correct? What does that mean? Of course a computer program may well be "correct" but that has very little to do with whether the current state of human (let alone the programmer's) knowledge reflects reality.
Quote
Frankly, the more I read the anti-GW arguments here (by WW, Andy, and you), the more I have the impression it's heavily based on the "black magic" impression some of you have of predictive modeling. That is, you don't know how it works, and thus it must be implicitly distrusted.

rumborak

First, the phrase "anti GW arguments" amazes me. How anybody would think that such arguments would be a welcome thing per se which worries me about your motives. The above poster referred to the notorious inaccuracy of weather forecasts, extrapolate that to a model which is being used as a premise for colossal statism internationally and it is perfectly rational that anybody would be alarmed and concerned in my view.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on December 11, 2009, 02:13:28 PM
You do know experts are consulted when making these modeling programs? It's not like the programmers just sit down and make a program with no research done.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AndyDT on December 12, 2009, 05:55:37 AM
There are probably many layers between Truth and a world-influencing computer "model"

reallity and truth --> human perception and ability --> "expert" and associated infallibility, influences, ego etc --> consultee --> personal prejudice, opinion, pressure, influences --> communication processes --> programmer and associated infallibility --> computational limitations --> ability to identify, select and present relevatn data --> selection of "experts" to present to influenced in turn by funding body, allegiances, other pressures, prejudices, gripes, rivalries.


This is what has happened with the IPCC in the past, they select the data presented to them by scientists. This is the danger of all powerful supranational bodies like the UN or EU with weak or no accountability.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on December 12, 2009, 02:22:30 PM
There are probably many layers between Truth and a world-influencing computer "model"

reallity and truth --> human perception and ability --> "expert" and associated infallibility, influences, ego etc --> consultee --> personal prejudice, opinion, pressure, influences --> communication processes --> programmer and associated infallibility --> computational limitations --> ability to identify, select and present relevatn data --> selection of "experts" to present to influenced in turn by funding body, allegiances, other pressures, prejudices, gripes, rivalries.


This is what has happened with the IPCC in the past, they select the data presented to them by scientists. This is the danger of all powerful supranational bodies like the UN or EU with weak or no accountability.

Wow... this is perhaps the most coherent post I've read by andydt.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on December 13, 2009, 02:58:24 PM
https://www.theonion.com/content/video/dea_recruits_lil_wayne_to_use_up
 :rollin
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: rumborak on December 13, 2009, 03:36:54 PM
There are probably many layers between Truth and a world-influencing computer "model"

reallity and truth --> human perception and ability --> "expert" and associated infallibility, influences, ego etc --> consultee --> personal prejudice, opinion, pressure, influences --> communication processes --> programmer and associated infallibility --> computational limitations --> ability to identify, select and present relevatn data --> selection of "experts" to present to influenced in turn by funding body, allegiances, other pressures, prejudices, gripes, rivalries.


This is what has happened with the IPCC in the past, they select the data presented to them by scientists. This is the danger of all powerful supranational bodies like the UN or EU with weak or no accountability.

Andy, while the acting on the predictions of the models is subjective, the selection of the best model is not. That is the very power of the modeling process, that you're developing the model on a certain set of data, and validate it on a different one. And, have it validated by different people who are competing with each other.
Unless you subscribe to one massive conspiracy theory, where opposing teams still "collude" and only run the opposing teams' models against data that will confirm that team's model, it simply doesn't sound reasonable that this is happening.

rumborak
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on December 14, 2009, 11:21:24 AM
I predict that the guy who broke Berlusconi's nose and knocked two teeth off will be sleeping with the fish soon.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on December 14, 2009, 03:01:31 PM
https://www.theonion.com/content/news/industrial_revolution_provides
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AndyDT on December 15, 2009, 06:55:55 AM
There are probably many layers between Truth and a world-influencing computer "model"

reallity and truth --> human perception and ability --> "expert" and associated infallibility, influences, ego etc --> consultee --> personal prejudice, opinion, pressure, influences --> communication processes --> programmer and associated infallibility --> computational limitations --> ability to identify, select and present relevatn data --> selection of "experts" to present to influenced in turn by funding body, allegiances, other pressures, prejudices, gripes, rivalries.


This is what has happened with the IPCC in the past, they select the data presented to them by scientists. This is the danger of all powerful supranational bodies like the UN or EU with weak or no accountability.

Andy, while the acting on the predictions of the models is subjective, the selection of the best model is not. That is the very power of the modeling process, that you're developing the model on a certain set of data, and validate it on a different one. And, have it validated by different people who are competing with each other.
Unless you subscribe to one massive conspiracy theory, where opposing teams still "collude" and only run the opposing teams' models against data that will confirm that team's model, it simply doesn't sound reasonable that this is happening.

rumborak

CRU scientists were colluding, it's in the climategate emails and the selection of the "best" model is of course subjective.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on December 16, 2009, 11:22:25 AM
(https://politicalirony.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/091207usatC.slideshow_main.prod_affiliate.91.jpg)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on December 16, 2009, 10:13:07 PM
https://www.theonion.com/content/infograph/some_of_mans_most_important

Quote
Some Of Man's Most Important Inventions

Inclined Plane: A simple machine consisting of a flat surface whose topmost point is higher than its bottommost point, this is yet another example of mankind's propensity for "inventing" things they just found lying around.

Telephone: This groundbreaking communication device allowed people a more dramatic way to end conversations with subordinates or lovers, and also played a key role in Martin Scorcese's film The Departed.

Printing Press: The mass production of printed matter was an instant hit with readers everywhere, who at the time numbered nearly 1,000 and were spread out over some 57.4 million square miles.

Easy Cheese: A pioneering aerosol-powered food- delivery system that made it possible for people to discharge high-velocity streams of cheese directly into their mouths, usually from a prone or inverted position.

God: This multipurpose tool has allowed billions to soothe their mortal fears while easily excusing a wide variety of unconscionable actions such as war and homophobia.

Gatling Gun: Capable of firing 200 rounds a minute, this powerful weapon was a vast improvement over its less lethal predecessor, the Gatling Baton.

 :rollin
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on December 17, 2009, 06:25:31 AM
(https://politicalirony.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/091207usatC.slideshow_main.prod_affiliate.91.jpg)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dtbn9zBfJSs


Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on December 17, 2009, 02:58:41 PM
(https://politicalirony.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/091207usatC.slideshow_main.prod_affiliate.91.jpg)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dtbn9zBfJSs

You'll notice the comci isn't solely about climate change. The most expensive one I see on there is livable cities, which would be pretty costly.

As for the rest of it, it's pretty much a straw man because I probably won't agree on what needs to be done to address climate change. I'd also have questions for how he calculates the economic value. Does it take into account long-term boons? Does it take into account side-affects and other benefits of the solution(s)?

The video also points out how cheap some of the problems would be to solve.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Progmetty on December 17, 2009, 11:10:01 PM
https://wikimediafoundation.org/wiki/Appeal2/en?utm_source=2009_Jimmy_Appeal4&utm_medium=sitenotice&utm_campaign=fundraiser2009&target=Appeal2
BS or valid?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on December 18, 2009, 09:48:27 AM
https://wikimediafoundation.org/wiki/Appeal2/en?utm_source=2009_Jimmy_Appeal4&utm_medium=sitenotice&utm_campaign=fundraiser2009&target=Appeal2
BS or valid?
What part are you questioning?  WP has been doing a pledge drive for a week or two now.  They do this once a year it would seem.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on December 19, 2009, 01:13:51 AM
(https://img195.imageshack.us/img195/6610/1261208657327.gif)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on December 19, 2009, 01:15:12 AM
(https://img195.imageshack.us/img195/6610/1261208657327.gif)

classic.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: pogoowner on December 19, 2009, 10:38:39 AM
So long, but so good.  :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on December 19, 2009, 04:58:39 PM
https://www.swifteconomics.com/2009/12/17/global-warming-rank-world-problems/

The Copenhagen Consensus 2008 ranked the proposals for cost benefit as follows:

Quote
As you can see, global warming doesn’t come in until proposal number fourteen. If I put on my analyst cap, this means that thirteen other issues would produce greater benefits to more people if money was allocated to it. Yet the United States is proposing a Cap and Trade bill to curb carbon emissions during a down, vulnerable economy. The carbon credits, or carbon indulgences as coined on this website, will hurt business during a time when the unemployment rate is in the double digits. (3)
(https://www.swifteconomics.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/Copenhagen-Consensus-2008-Solutions-for-World-Challenges.png)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on December 22, 2009, 11:04:49 PM
Most of those problems you point to can be done quite cheaply as compared to global warming. Meaning, there's no reason we can't do multiple things at once - the idea that we can't combat global warming because there are other good things to do is fallacious.  The video you linked to before gave the monetary value needed, but completely ignored how cheap they were.

And again, it also doesn't address how many of these issues can be combated together. For example, giving AFricans and poor countries solar, wind and other green energy would be a great boon to their economy - which would lead to better education, less disease and malnutrition.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on December 23, 2009, 01:22:27 AM
You seem to misunderstand, why would multitasking all of a sudden make any of low carbon technologies cheaper? All you are talking about is allocating more toward low carbon tech and less toward what is actually cost effective. The point is that outright low carbon technologies are expensive and should not be funded in comparison to actual problems that are plaguing people in the millions that we could more efficiently allocate money we are already spending.

To answer your suggestion. Solar power as an example is still incredibly expensive and the benefits are commonly overstated (https://www.solarpowerrocks.com/solar-trends/solar-is-getting-more-expensive-not-cheaper/). To give an entire country or even small portions of it power via solar panels that would be needed to have even the smallest economic benefit would be outrageously expensive. The situation is the same with other green technologies like wind and hydro power. They cannot be efficiently and cheaply produced en mass in the number needed, and they cannot reliably produce the power needed to sustain change.


Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on December 23, 2009, 11:59:29 AM
Sorry, but it's untrue that solar power is STILL expensive and inefficient. That article is from early 2008, making is technologically out of date and inaccurate. Same goes for wind power, which has been a viable alternative for years now. These technologies pay for themselves in a matter of years, and after that save you money.

And hydro power is a different issue completely, and if you are talking about damns, is counter productive. Good thing we can get it done with solar and wind, though.

You're also avoiding the fact that those other problems are cheap to address on their own. I"m not suggesting we ignore them, I"m suggesting we target them at the same time. Maybe this weakens the funding for global warming a little, but $18 billion is simply not that much money in today's economy - especially globally. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on December 23, 2009, 03:26:00 PM
I think you need to read up a little more on all of those technologies before we continue this discussion. None of them are cheap enough to mass produce and provide more or equal power to that of fossil fuels.

Where are you getting your numbers from where you can say that problems 1-13 are cheap to solve?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on December 23, 2009, 05:45:50 PM
"Cheap" is a relative term. Could I afford them? No. Can the countries afford them? No. Can the US and the modern world afford them? Yes. And I got that information from Bjorn Lomburg. He made a point about how cheap some of the solutions would be, notably the ones concerning disease and malnutrition. But those issues can be combated by improving a nations economy as well.

Also, I'm not premising my argument on the idea that solar or wind power is on par with fossil fuel. Don't need that, though wind power has been on par with fossil fuels for a while now, and solar is quickly approaching.

https://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2009/may/12/solar-energy-price-fall

https://www.meic.org/energy/global_warming_pollution/renewable-energy-alternatives-1/wind_cost

Quote
Over the last two years, coal- and natural gas-fueled power prices have risen more than 40%, nuclear power prices more than 70%. Wind power prices, meanwhile, have risen a relatively paltry 13%.

As a result, wind power is now cheaper than gas or nuclear. Conventional (dirtiest) coal's small price advantage—about eight-tenths of a cent per kilowatt-hour—will soon be erased by regional and/or federal regulations on climate-polluting greenhouse-gas emissions.

I think YOU need to read up a little more on these technologies. You're 5 years in the past, not the present.



Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on December 23, 2009, 05:48:51 PM
I don't know if this contributes to this discussion (mainly because I'm too tired and lazy to read it) but 22% of UK's energy now comes from renewable sources, which is a 9% increase on 2007 (saw this on the BBC news tonight).

I'm pretty sure a lot of it comes from hydro too.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on December 23, 2009, 06:51:24 PM
Quote
https://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2009/may/12/solar-energy-price-fall

I could find articles from random websites that say farts could fuel the western hemispheres power needs. It doesn't make it true, and it was one of the criticisms that the the author in the article I linked to had. Solar systems as of 2009 cost $2-9 (https://www.solarbuzz.com/Moduleprices.htm) per watt. maybe in 2013 you could find some way to pay for it. But even then, unless you were to allocate much more than the united states is willing as an example you would be left off with little to no economic and climate benefit.

Not just that, but the above article doesnt say anything for the actual output of an average solar system on homes now which you seem to be seriously overstating. They produces less than half of the power needed for an average home, and little to none during winter or dark months.

Quote
https://www.meic.org/energy/global_warming_pollution/renewable-energy-alternatives-1/wind_cost

As interesting as wind power is, deploying it on a large scale would cost way too much money and again not be ultimately reliable. Look at the UK, they are thinking of switching (https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-500893/Wind-turbines-fuel-homes-2020.html) the entire country to wind power, but even by their estimates it would cost billions and not be ready until 2020

Quote
Wind turbines have proved to be controversial onshore and offshore. On land there have been complaints that they are a blot on some of Britain's best loved, and most dramatic, landscapes, while at sea there have been concerns about their impact on shipping, fishing and birds. The Government's plans would mean a turbine for every half mile of coast.

The point is regardless of where you stand on the issue of renewable vs fossil, you cannot correctly say that switching an entire country over to the current renewable resources we have now would produce anywhere near enough power or be cost effective.


Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on December 24, 2009, 01:22:22 AM
Quote
https://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2009/may/12/solar-energy-price-fall

I could find articles from random websites that say farts could fuel the western hemispheres power needs. It doesn't make it true, and it was one of the criticisms that the the author in the article I linked to had. Solar systems as of 2009 cost $2-9 (https://www.solarbuzz.com/Moduleprices.htm) per watt. maybe in 2013 you could find some way to pay for it. But even then, unless you were to allocate much more than the united states is willing as an example you would be left off with little to no economic and climate benefit.

LOL! You attack my link for being some random website, and then insert your own random website as a counterpoint! Also, completely irrelevant because it ignores the facts on the ground the solar power is rapidly become more efficient, cheaper and viable. Which the solarbuzz site even states:

Quote
We have reached the final survey of 2009. By any standards, this has been a momentus year in the long history of the solar photovoltaic industry. Never have there been such dramatic moves in pricing in a single 12 month period.

Quote
Not just that, but the above article doesnt say anything for the actual output of an average solar system on homes now which you seem to be seriously overstating. They produces less than half of the power needed for an average home, and little to none during winter or dark months.

Good thing I"m not putting all my marbles in solar power, now is it? And seeing as how I haven't made any comments on the actual output of current systems, I can't imagine how I have overstated them.
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https://www.meic.org/energy/global_warming_pollution/renewable-energy-alternatives-1/wind_cost

As interesting as wind power is, deploying it on a large scale would cost way too much money and again not be ultimately reliable. Look at the UK, they are thinking of switching (https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-500893/Wind-turbines-fuel-homes-2020.html) the entire country to wind power, but even by their estimates it would cost billions and not be ready until 2020

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Wind turbines have proved to be controversial onshore and offshore. On land there have been complaints that they are a blot on some of Britain's best loved, and most dramatic, landscapes, while at sea there have been concerns about their impact on shipping, fishing and birds. The Government's plans would mean a turbine for every half mile of coast.

The point is regardless of where you stand on the issue of renewable vs fossil, you cannot correctly say that switching an entire country over to the current renewable resources we have now would produce anywhere near enough power or be cost effective.

Look up the new wind turbine designs. This last year saw numerous new designs that are not only more efficient, but take up less space, are aesthetically pleasing and don't have large propellers.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on December 24, 2009, 06:24:59 AM
@Nigerius Rex: I don't think anyone is suggesting moving straight over to renewable sources but to make a gradual change. The UK's original target was to have a third of our energy come from renewable sources by 2012 (I think) but, at this rate, they think we'll be relying on more than that.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on December 24, 2009, 09:49:34 PM
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LOL! You attack my link for being some random website, and then insert your own random website as a counterpoint! Also, completely irrelevant because it ignores the facts on the ground the solar power is rapidly become more efficient, cheaper and viable. Which the solarbuzz site even states:

No, I am stating something and then saying that an author not affiliated with some random news website agrees with me that news website commonly lie or mislead in order to make it look like the next big break is happening tomorrow. In fact, the author is writing from a solar hobbyist site which if anything gives them reason to always shed praise (https://www.solarpowerrocks.com/solar-trends/read-the-leaked-transcript-of-the-uuws-climate-skeptics-meeting/) for solar power. Can you buy solar panels for $1/watt? Yes, from some companies. Can you mass produce solar cells for $1/watt and then install them and produce enough power to outweigh the use and effects of fossil fuels? No.

You are getting yourself lost in the good but not good enough news. Prices have fallen since the increase in interest in solar power, but although interest has risen substantially it has not risen enough to lower prices to a number low enough to enable mass distribution.

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Good thing I"m not putting all my marbles in solar power, now is it? And seeing as how I haven't made any comments on the actual output of current systems, I can't imagine how I have overstated them.

I basically said solar power is not ready, but you countered by saying its becoming cheaper every year. I then say that even though its becoming cheaper, its not cheap enough and still cannot makeup enough power to be considered a viable alternative. If its not a viable alternative regardless of cost, then it cannot be used to replace fossil fuels globally and we are back at square one until it becomes cheap enough and efficient enough to mass produce and distribute.

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Look up the new wind turbine designs. This last year saw numerous new designs that are not only more efficient, but take up less space, are aesthetically pleasing and don't have large propellers.

Thats great but irrelevant. Something being smaller, smoother, or more aesthetically pleasing don't say much for their ecological effects. The AWEA is still doing research to figure out exactly how the wind turbines will affect ocean life. Despite that, the larger wind turbines that will be placed out to see will be much larger than those on land and during construction and maintenance may do some harm.

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Offshore turbine designs now under development will have larger rotors—at the moment, the largest has a 110-meter rotor diameter—because it is easier to transport large rotor blades by ship than by land.

Small wind turbines intended for residential or small business use are much smaller. Most have rotor diameters of 8 meters or less and would be mounted on towers of 40 meters in height or less.

I am not trying to discredit renewable energy, I hope it develops rapidly soon so we can start using en mass. The point is regardless of that desire, it likely will not happen for many years.

Merry christmas everyone.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on December 25, 2009, 04:48:52 AM
The AWEA is still doing research to figure out exactly how the wind turbines will affect ocean life. Despite that, the larger wind turbines that will be placed out to see will be much larger than those on land and during construction and maintenance may do some harm.
I suppose all those oil rigs are much more aesthetically pleasing and don't damage the environment at all then?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on December 25, 2009, 06:28:50 AM
Not as much you would think, but that is besides the point. Cost, reliability, and then affects on oceanic life and environment is the order this argument progressed.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on December 26, 2009, 01:28:06 AM
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LOL! You attack my link for being some random website, and then insert your own random website as a counterpoint! Also, completely irrelevant because it ignores the facts on the ground the solar power is rapidly become more efficient, cheaper and viable. Which the solarbuzz site even states:

No, I am stating something and then saying that an author not affiliated with some random news website agrees with me that news website commonly lie or mislead in order to make it look like the next big break is happening tomorrow. In fact, the author is writing from a solar hobbyist site which if anything gives them reason to always shed praise (https://www.solarpowerrocks.com/solar-trends/read-the-leaked-transcript-of-the-uuws-climate-skeptics-meeting/) for solar power. Can you buy solar panels for $1/watt? Yes, from some companies. Can you mass produce solar cells for $1/watt and then install them and produce enough power to outweigh the use and effects of fossil fuels? No.

You are getting yourself lost in the good but not good enough news. Prices have fallen since the increase in interest in solar power, but although interest has risen substantially it has not risen enough to lower prices to a number low enough to enable mass distribution.

So, you admit if interest were high enough, the prices would fall and it would enable mass distribution? Well then, I guess I had better continue to try and raise interests in solar power! I had also better support public subsidization, because that will also help mass-production and lower prices.

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Good thing I"m not putting all my marbles in solar power, now is it? And seeing as how I haven't made any comments on the actual output of current systems, I can't imagine how I have overstated them.

I basically said solar power is not ready, but you countered by saying its becoming cheaper every year. I then say that even though its becoming cheaper, its not cheap enough and still cannot makeup enough power to be considered a viable alternative. If its not a viable alternative regardless of cost, then it cannot be used to replace fossil fuels globally and we are back at square one until it becomes cheap enough and efficient enough to mass produce and distribute.

But it is ready, just not for your straw man usage. People in northern climates are obviously going to have to find other sources of power, but I think the major thing you're doing is assuming I'm trying to switch our energy to one specific supply. I want to diversify our energy supply, using mostly green energy: Hydrogen, solar, wind, geo-thermal, biomass, algae-conversion (really, solar power), osmotic, hydro, nuclear, ethanol, natural gas - and yes, even fossil fuels where necessary. I know I haven't been overly clear about that, but I have never said anything to the contrary.

So is it ready for everyone to use [/i]everywhere[/i]? No. Doesn't need to be. But remember, one of the usages of solar I brought up would be for developing nations, which have a much much smaller electrical demand than developed nations.

It's also untrue that solar power can't fully supply a house's energy needs. Many people with solar panels sell power back to the grid because they create more than they use.

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Look up the new wind turbine designs. This last year saw numerous new designs that are not only more efficient, but take up less space, are aesthetically pleasing and don't have large propellers.

Thats great but irrelevant. Something being smaller, smoother, or more aesthetically pleasing don't say much for their ecological effects. The AWEA is still doing research to figure out exactly how the wind turbines will affect ocean life. Despite that, the larger wind turbines that will be placed out to see will be much larger than those on land and during construction and maintenance may do some harm. j

It's hardly irrelevant. One of the major problems cited with traditional turbines is their affect on birds. Smaller turbines, with no blades, gets rid of this problem. Either way, who says this has to be put out at sea? It also gives wind power even greater efficiency, making large wind farms off shore less of a requirement. Ignoring all that, there is no requirement that such farms be built to begin with, and it still leaves plenty of room for wind energy to be a viable option for people.

One especially promising design: https://www.mariahpower.com/

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Offshore turbine designs now under development will have larger rotors—at the moment, the largest has a 110-meter rotor diameter—because it is easier to transport large rotor blades by ship than by land.

Small wind turbines intended for residential or small business use are much smaller. Most have rotor diameters of 8 meters or less and would be mounted on towers of 40 meters in height or less.

So after I point out that such rotors are no longer required, you bring up that rotors present problems?



And Merry Christmas. On a personal note, I hope I keep most of the discussion idealistic, and not personal
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Arcaeus on December 26, 2009, 02:22:47 PM
What's with this?

https://www.metrowestdailynews.com/news/x1045395303/Al-Qaeda-link-seen-in-failed-plane-attack
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on December 28, 2009, 02:09:12 AM
Not arab, doesn't matter.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on December 28, 2009, 11:02:13 AM
What's with this?

https://www.metrowestdailynews.com/news/x1045395303/Al-Qaeda-link-seen-in-failed-plane-attack

Does this mean we have to remove our underwear to get on a plane?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: millahh on December 28, 2009, 11:03:58 AM
What's with this?

https://www.metrowestdailynews.com/news/x1045395303/Al-Qaeda-link-seen-in-failed-plane-attack

Does this mean we have to remove our underwear to get on a plane?

With some of the new imaging equipment, we may as well be doing so already...
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on December 28, 2009, 11:13:23 AM
What's with this?

https://www.metrowestdailynews.com/news/x1045395303/Al-Qaeda-link-seen-in-failed-plane-attack

Does this mean we have to remove our underwear to get on a plane?

With some of the new imaging equipment, we may as well be doing so already...

Ya... I've gone through those. Still had to take off my shoes though.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on December 30, 2009, 07:11:10 AM
www.paulgraham.com/disagree.html

I guess Millaahhhhh would like to pin what's said in that link. A good guide on hot to disagree on the Internet.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: millahh on December 30, 2009, 09:39:08 AM
www.paulgraham.com/disagree.html

I guess Millaahhhhh would like to pin what's said in that link. A good guide on hot to disagree on the Internet.

Good stuff.  I'll probably reformat it and opost it as a sticky.  That's the most concise version I've seen.  Thanks!
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on December 31, 2009, 06:48:49 PM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xlkprv-Upco

Fuck I love spongebob
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Genowyn on January 02, 2010, 10:22:51 PM
I have a quick question for the Libertarians that I don't think needs it's own thread so I'll post it here:

What is your opinion on PMCs/Mercenaries? Would these be preferable to national militaries, or is this something where the public option is acceptable?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on January 02, 2010, 11:41:38 PM
constitutionally thats one of the few legitimate duties of the government. So I am fine with a standing military for homeland security, but not what we have now. Do I care much about private militaries or mercenaries? Not really. Also pinkertons ftw.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Genowyn on January 03, 2010, 07:38:48 PM
OK.

What responsibilities do you think the government has to its people, if any?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on January 04, 2010, 02:09:38 PM
Aside from duties listed in the constitution, I don't think it has any.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on January 04, 2010, 04:31:15 PM
Aside from duties listed in the constitution, I don't think it has any.

But only according to your interpretation.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on January 04, 2010, 07:17:30 PM
He was asking me...?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on January 04, 2010, 09:26:07 PM
It's a uh... public forum.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on January 04, 2010, 10:41:39 PM
Right but for example if I asked you a question, and then you answered, and then someone else chimed in "Yes but only in your own opinion" then what was the point of the third response. Obviously according to my interpretation I think something. Am I just overthinking this?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Genowyn on January 04, 2010, 11:04:34 PM
It was still under my "I'm trying to establish what libertarians think" train of questions, so yes, what I want to know is his interpretation.

What responsibilities are listed in the constitution? If you don't want to explain it, is there somewhere online that would have that?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on January 04, 2010, 11:07:51 PM
Its mostly summed up in Article 1 Section 8 (https://www.usconstitution.net/const.html#A1Sec8):
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The Congress shall have Power To lay and collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Excises, to pay the Debts and provide for the common Defence and general Welfare of the United States; but all Duties, Imposts and Excises shall be uniform throughout the United States;

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on January 04, 2010, 11:14:23 PM
I guess you could say I was pointing out that doesn't answer the question. I would answer the same way, but we have different view points on just what the Government can do. Article I, Section 8 is rather vague and can be used to justify many positions.

And what of local and state government? What are their responsibilities?

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Genowyn on January 04, 2010, 11:17:41 PM
Its mostly summed up in Article 1 Section 8 (https://www.usconstitution.net/const.html#A1Sec8):
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The Congress shall have Power To lay and collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Excises, to pay the Debts and provide for the common Defence and general Welfare of the United States; but all Duties, Imposts and Excises shall be uniform throughout the United States;



What do you define as general welfare?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on January 04, 2010, 11:35:41 PM
Anything that is directly connected to or supports the enumerated powers.

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And what of local and state government? What are their responsibilities?

No more responsibilities than the federal government. I think defense, taxes, and general welfare still apply though.

Define responsibilities, are you trying to get me to or address that they have should duties to the people like providing healthcare and paying for higher education?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Genowyn on January 04, 2010, 11:44:33 PM
No I just want to understand your stance so that if I do find myself in debate with you I'll get where you're coming from.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on January 05, 2010, 07:08:46 AM
cool. Wanna debate?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Genowyn on January 05, 2010, 09:42:53 AM
cool. Wanna debate?

Not at the moment, no :p
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on January 05, 2010, 02:55:44 PM
Its mostly summed up in Article 1 Section 8 (https://www.usconstitution.net/const.html#A1Sec8):
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The Congress shall have Power To lay and collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Excises, to pay the Debts and provide for the common Defence and general Welfare of the United States; but all Duties, Imposts and Excises shall be uniform throughout the United States;



What do you define as general welfare?

Based upon an argument I had with him, "general welfare" has nothing to do with "general" or "welfare," as defined by a dictionary and etymology.

Anything that is directly connected to or supports the enumerated powers.

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And what of local and state government? What are their responsibilities?

No more responsibilities than the federal government. I think defense, taxes, and general welfare still apply though.

Define responsibilities, are you trying to get me to or address that they have should duties to the people like providing healthcare and paying for higher education?

So what do you mean by "general welfare"? You didn't really answer the question... you said anything which pertains to one of the enumerated powers, but promoting the general welfare is an enumerated power.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on January 05, 2010, 04:35:48 PM
It is the comfort granted when the enumerated powers are being used and enforced efficiently. For example, knowing you are safe within the nation because of a well funded and equipped military would constitute proper welfare whereas having a bankrupt military would cause panic.

It is not every facet of human culture and health that needs to be provided for to function, healthcare as an example.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Dr. SeaWolf on January 05, 2010, 04:48:18 PM
That's a rather sketchy interpretation.  I think the most obvious definition of "general welfare" is to keep the people safe and healthy.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on January 05, 2010, 05:04:46 PM
It is the comfort granted when the enumerated powers are being used and enforced efficiently. For example, knowing you are safe within the nation because of a well funded and equipped military would constitute proper welfare whereas having a bankrupt military would cause panic.

It is not every facet of human culture and health that needs to be provided for to function, healthcare as an example.

But why include in the doctrine specifically the guidance and the power to "provide for the...general welfare," if it's a result of the other enumerated powers?

And would not a unhealthy nation cause poor general welfare? It's true by definition. You do not fare well when you are sick.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on January 05, 2010, 05:16:24 PM
Having a list of enumerated powers shoots that argument out of the sky and also historically makes no sense. I should also bring up again that general welfare is merely part of an introduction followed by the list of actual enumerated powers. Why be painfully specific about what legislation could and could not do if you were going to grant them the ability to do what is necessary to promote whatever we define as "general welfare" at the time? It just doesn't make any sense.  The founding fathers knew welfare, healthcare, everything that we are now funding with tax dollars would inevitably lead to a bigger and more unstable government. Exactly like the one they fought a revolution against.

Heres a question, health was as much of a concern then as it is now if not more so. Why was a government funded healthcare system not implemented then? Why weren't all of these government programs we have now that address larger issues then not implemented? It seems like not until the early/mid 1900s did everything get all fucked up and government funded.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on January 05, 2010, 05:55:07 PM
Having a list of enumerated powers shoots that argument out of the sky and also historically makes no sense. I should also bring up again that general welfare is merely part of an introduction followed by the list of actual enumerated powers. Why be painfully specific about what legislation could and could not do if you were going to grant them the ability to do what is necessary to promote whatever we define as "general welfare" at the time? It just doesn't make any sense.  The founding fathers knew welfare, healthcare, everything that we are now funding with tax dollars would inevitably lead to a bigger and more unstable government. Exactly like the one they fought a revolution against.

But it makes perfect sense! I'm glad the founding fathers had enough foresight to realize they didn't have enough foresight - they knew circumstances would occur and proposals would arrive which they had not though of. They had to allow for such flexibility, or they would have doomed the government to complete rigidity.

And you're just wrong in saying that it's merely part of an introduction. It's in section 8, titled the powers of congress, and this is the first list of powers given. "Congress shall have the power to... provide for the ... general Welfare."

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Heres a question, health was as much of a concern then as it is now if not more so. Why was a government funded healthcare system not implemented then? Why weren't all of these government programs we have now that address larger issues then not implemented? It seems like not until the early/mid 1900s did everything get all fucked up and government funded.

That's a gross analogy. You completely ignore a myriad of other circumstances, all of them vastly more important, than the theory that government funded health care could not and would not work, and would just function as a drain on society. You also fallacious conclude a conclude the lack of it's implementation was for a reason, and not just circumstances or history.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on January 05, 2010, 06:09:16 PM
What they knew is that by listing enumerated powers they would discourage or eliminate the idea that a single sentence would disregard the entire document and its meaning. Never once during the constitutional convention or any of its preceding was the idea put forth that the government needed to fix societies every woe. They set forth a list of things the government needed to be able to do to promote peace and prosperity and protect itself. What other proof do you need than that they had just fought for independence from a government that was aggressive with taxes and too large and demanding? Kind of like what our government is becoming.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on January 06, 2010, 01:43:35 AM
Then why allow of amending of the Constitution?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on January 06, 2010, 09:02:04 AM
Because they knew circumstances would change that they did not foresee. Those circumstances were not the sudden and unforeseen need to tax people more than necessary and enact federal healthcare .
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on January 06, 2010, 03:15:26 PM
Lol. If anything, we're not taxing people enough - we have that huge deficit you like to point out. Just what constitutes the necessary taxation is entirely relative to the circumstances. Who the hell wages a war and doesn't fund it? (Well.. Bush, but that just shows how horrible of a president he was). Taxation has been on a steady decline since the 1950's, not up.

Same goes for health care. I also severely doubt that Founding Father's had any conception of the Modern World, especially the last 100 years. To assume they wouldn't assent to providing for health care with the modern worlds availability of education, doctors, hospitals and knowledge is baseless. It was a much different world in 1787. But the founding father's not only left us a list of specific powers, but a desire on how to use those powers. One of those is promoting the general Welfare of the United States, as well as the necessary powers to do so.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on January 06, 2010, 04:38:11 PM
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Insert Quote
Lol. If anything, we're not taxing people enough - we have that huge deficit you like to point out. Just what constitutes the necessary taxation is entirely relative to the circumstances.

That seems to be the problem. The government should not be this giant morphing entity that can consume resources depending on how large it is. It should have a set number of power and duties (constitution) and need to tax only to fund those needs. As Bosk mentioned in the thread about healthcare, part of the reason we have such a huge deficit is because the government is so inept at running social programs.

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Taxation has been on a steady decline since the 1950's, not up

source?

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But the founding father's not only left us a list of specific powers, but a desire on how to use those powers. One of those is promoting the general Welfare of the United States, as well as the necessary powers to do so.

Thats simply incorrect.

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Power To lay and collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Excises, to pay the Debts and provide for the common Defence

All of those things are tied to one of the enumerated powers. If general welfare was meant to be applied the way you say it should be, why is not one of the enumerated powers "To be do whatever is necessary to reinforce the general welfare of the populace". It only makes sense that they meant it to be applied in direct relation to the enumerated powers and not to be a fix all.

My point about federal healthcare then was that the needs of the poor and unhealthy were much more vast because of the level of technology at the time. Why, if they would not have been opposed to federal healthcare per the constitution, did they not implement it? Back to my original point, why did they not implement any social programs or support any failing businesses with tax dollars?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on January 06, 2010, 05:14:47 PM
That seems to be the problem. The government should not be this giant morphing entity that can consume resources depending on how large it is. It should have a set number of power and duties (constitution) and need to tax only to fund those needs. As Bosk mentioned in the thread about healthcare, part of the reason we have such a huge deficit is because the government is so inept at running social programs.



Medicare outperforms the "free-market," in terms of cost, efficiency and quality.

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Taxation has been on a steady decline since the 1950's, not up

source?

Google images:

(https://workforward.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/historical-marginal-tax-rates-0316091.jpg)

(https://www.pissedonpolitics.com/corporate%20tax%20rates.jpg)

Social security has gone up, but it's size in comparison to income tax makes it's rise irrelevant to the fact that taxes have gone down.

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But the founding father's not only left us a list of specific powers, but a desire on how to use those powers. One of those is promoting the general Welfare of the United States, as well as the necessary powers to do so.

Thats simply incorrect.

It's directly in the constitution. Even if someone accepts your insane argument that somehow the Constitution doesn't give Congress the power to provide for the general Welfare of the people - despite the fact that the Constitution literally says, "The Congress shall have Power To lay and collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Excises, to pay the Debts and provide for the common Defence and general Welfare of the United States; but all Duties, Imposts and Excises shall be uniform throughout the United States."

You are now literally ignoring what is written in the Constitution, not simply debating interpretation.

Quote
Quote
Power To lay and collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Excises, to pay the Debts and provide for the common Defence

All of those things are tied to one of the enumerated powers. If general welfare was meant to be applied the way you say it should be, why is not one of the enumerated powers "To be do whatever is necessary to reinforce the general welfare of the populace". It only makes sense that they meant it to be applied in direct relation to the enumerated powers and not to be a fix all.

So you really want to ignore the fact that that list starts out by saying these are powers of congress? Maybe they felt "general Welfare" didn't need further description, maybe they felt such was idiotic as it says, "general Welfare" and is thus rather hard to particulate.

But to even answer your question, what of the powers listed which don't pertain to taxes, duties, imposts, excises, paying of debts or defense? There two:

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To establish Post Offices and Post Roads;

To promote the Progress of Science and useful Arts, by securing for limited Times to Authors and Inventors the exclusive Right to their respective Writings and Discoveries;

Here's two powers given which don't fit any of your criteria, but do fit the idea of "general Welfare." 


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My point about federal healthcare then was that the needs of the poor and unhealthy were much more vast because of the level of technology at the time. Why, if they would not have been opposed to federal healthcare per the constitution, did they not implement it? Back to my original point, why did they not implement any social programs or support any failing businesses with tax dollars?

Your first sentence doesn't actually work with what you're saying. They didn't implement it because it was entirely impractical at the time, it's infeasibility meant that there was never a debate regarding the issue. To use this as some sort of proof that the founding fathers wouldn't' support universal health care is absurd.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on January 06, 2010, 05:23:26 PM
Dont feel like responding to the rest now, but:

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Here's two powers given which don't fit any of your criteria, but do fit the idea of "general Welfare."  

You missed my point. It was that they list a quaint summary of the powers like defense and taxes, and then go on to relist the actual powers in great detail. General welfare is strangely not there. If they meant general welfare as you define it, they would have listed it as a power and elaborated on its uses.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on January 06, 2010, 05:31:34 PM
I'm just baffled. I perform an argument, and then you object to my argument by asking for the exact same argument I just gave. They don't specifically restate the power to "provide for the common defense" either, they just list a series of related powers.

Are you just making this up as you go?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Genowyn on January 07, 2010, 09:49:58 AM
So, here's another question:

What do you feel about drugs, prostitution, censorship, and the banning of books, movies, games, TV shows, etc? Normally these are considered conservative things (the last 2 for, the first 2 against), but I would think a libertarian should have no problem with it, right?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on January 07, 2010, 10:37:50 AM
For legalizing drugs, prostitution, against censorship in all forms.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on January 09, 2010, 01:42:52 PM
I found SilentFox!

(https://img36.imageshack.us/img36/8482/1263069421911.jpg)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: j on January 09, 2010, 02:02:50 PM
 :lol

For the love of all that is holy, I hope those posts were in jest.

-J
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on January 09, 2010, 02:20:47 PM
I'm pretty sure the entire board is a satirical board.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on January 09, 2010, 06:46:12 PM
https://www.landoverbaptist.net
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Genowyn on January 09, 2010, 10:27:08 PM
I refuse to believe that these people are serious, that is just too much.
Title: TIME TO SAVE THE WORLD AGAIN, LADS
Post by: AndyDT on January 11, 2010, 03:56:11 PM
Quote

The fact of the matter is this: while the Germans can claim to have come up with the car, the Italians with electricity and the French with flight, everything else that has ever mattered in the whole of human history has come from a man in a shed in Britain.

Everything. The internet, penicillin, the mechanical computer, the electronic computer, steam power, the seed drill, the seismograph, the umbrella, Viagra, polyester, the lawnmower, the fax machine, depth charges, scuba suits, the spinning jenny . . . I could go on, so I will.

Radar, the television, the telephone, the hovercraft, the jet engine, the sewing machine, the periodic table
. . . It doesn't matter what field you're talking about - from submarine warfare to erectile dysfunction. The world always turns to Britain when some fresh thought is needed. And with only 25,000 engineers coming out of our universities every year, I fear the world may be doomed.

Of course, you may imagine that the giant economy that is America will ride in on a horse and save the day, but don't hold your breath. They got through the sound barrier only thanks to us; they stole the computer from under our noses; and they got into space only thanks to the Germans, who knew about rockets only because our Spitfires had made mincemeat of their Messerschmitts.

The Americans? Pah. Left to their own devices, I doubt they could build a pencil.

Sir James Dyson, who makes purple vacuum cleaners of such immense power that they can suck up rugs, mice and even medium-sized children, is so worried about the situation that he's opening a new academy, which will be called the Dyson School of Design and Innovation.

https://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/comment/columnists/jeremy_clarkson/article3734663.ece
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on January 11, 2010, 04:01:52 PM
Lol.

And why, for any reason, would Viagra be in the list?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MetalMike06 on January 11, 2010, 04:03:18 PM
https://www.foxnews.com/politics/2010/01/11/palin-join-fox-news-contributor/

Well wadda ya know  ::)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: GuineaPig on January 12, 2010, 09:52:33 AM
This is pathetic.  I can't see how this is a legal ruling.

https://www.cbc.ca/world/story/2010/01/12/abortion-murder-trial.html
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on January 13, 2010, 07:19:03 AM
Guys, check this out.  First article on the page, the one with the picture of Palin.

https://www.politico.com/

The article itself isn't so much the point as the picture. :rollin :rollin :rollin
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on January 13, 2010, 01:22:54 PM
Pat Robertson -- "Something happened a long time ago in Haiti, They were under the heel of the French, you know, Napoleon III and whatever. And they got togethter and swore a pact to the Devil. True story."
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on January 13, 2010, 08:19:31 PM
Pat Robertson -- "Something happened a long time ago in Haiti, They were under the heel of the French, you know, Napoleon III and whatever. And they got togethter and swore a pact to the Devil. True story."
I was just coming here to post about that.  The man is genuinely, bat-shit insane. Great fun to watch, though.  I like the 700 Club a lot more than most of Fox's programming. 

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on January 14, 2010, 12:16:53 PM
https://www.theonion.com/content/video/new_law_requires_women_to_name  :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on January 15, 2010, 03:43:48 PM
(https://i.imgur.com/68mTv.gif)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on January 22, 2010, 02:39:17 PM
We're back! :dangerwillrobinson:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jamesman42 on January 22, 2010, 02:40:30 PM
We're front! :clap:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on January 22, 2010, 02:43:49 PM
3 hours at most till the libertarians and the liberals are going at it again.
Title: Support for continuity with Britain grows
Post by: AndyDT on January 24, 2010, 09:41:21 AM
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1245649/Prince-Williams-trip-Australia-dampens-desire-country-ditch-monarchy.html

Title: Re: Support for continuity with Britain grows
Post by: shadowfex on January 25, 2010, 06:03:00 AM
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1245649/Prince-Williams-trip-Australia-dampens-desire-country-ditch-monarchy.html


I thought, if anything, his trip proved how little our country cares about the monarchy. The turnouts were not very large at all.

Also, the main reason Australian's don't want the flag to change is because we don't really find it necessary. Maybe, if we left the commonwealth but otherwise it is not an urgent matter.
Title: Re: Support for continuity with Britain grows
Post by: AndyDT on January 25, 2010, 06:55:47 AM
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1245649/Prince-Williams-trip-Australia-dampens-desire-country-ditch-monarchy.html


I thought, if anything, his trip proved how little our country cares about the monarchy. The turnouts were not very large at all.

Also, the main reason Australian's don't want the flag to change is because we don't really find it necessary. Maybe, if we left the commonwealth but otherwise it is not an urgent matter.
https://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/article6999813.ece

Women made up the overwhelming majority of a crowd of more than 2,000 that greeted William at the Botanic Gardens in Sydney last week. Girls screamed, “I love you William,” and clamoured to shake his hand. “It was just the perfect handshake,” said Alexandra Green, 15. “It was gentle ... like a prince.”

Two young girls carrying a sign for the prince and an Australian flag were so moved by his appearance that they vowed they would “totally never vote for a republic”.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: millahh on January 25, 2010, 08:18:40 AM
Sounds like BeatleMania, except for the prince instead.

BeatleMania didn't being about US-UK reunificaton...
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on January 25, 2010, 11:24:49 AM
https://www.theonion.com/content/opinion/i_dont_even_want_to_be_alive
Title: Re: Support for continuity with Britain grows
Post by: shadowfex on January 25, 2010, 06:53:45 PM
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1245649/Prince-Williams-trip-Australia-dampens-desire-country-ditch-monarchy.html


I thought, if anything, his trip proved how little our country cares about the monarchy. The turnouts were not very large at all.

Also, the main reason Australian's don't want the flag to change is because we don't really find it necessary. Maybe, if we left the commonwealth but otherwise it is not an urgent matter.
https://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/article6999813.ece

Women made up the overwhelming majority of a crowd of more than 2,000 that greeted William at the Botanic Gardens in Sydney last week. Girls screamed, “I love you William,” and clamoured to shake his hand. “It was just the perfect handshake,” said Alexandra Green, 15. “It was gentle ... like a prince.”

Two young girls carrying a sign for the prince and an Australian flag were so moved by his appearance that they vowed they would “totally never vote for a republic”.


The turnouts were not very large at all. When Princess Diana came down, those were some big turnouts.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on January 26, 2010, 12:08:20 AM
Just read a pretty funny quote from a Creationist page on Facebook:

Quote
natural selection is a fact, I agree, but natural selection IS NOT evolution! The word "SELECTION" gives it all away... it is a process where information is SELECTED from what is already there, i.e. it is an INFORMATION LOOSING process.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on January 26, 2010, 12:10:36 AM
Just read a pretty funny quote from a Creationist page on Facebook:

Quote
natural selection is a fact, I agree, but natural selection IS NOT evolution! The word "SELECTION" gives it all away... it is a process where information is SELECTED from what is already there, i.e. it is an INFORMATION LOOSING process.

sigh
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on January 26, 2010, 12:16:55 AM
Fuck. I just read something that was intentionally funny:

"How can anyone be Pro Evo, FIFA is so much better."

 :lol :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on January 26, 2010, 12:47:09 AM
What the hell is FIFA?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on January 26, 2010, 12:49:37 AM
Don't know if that's sarcasm or not but it's a football (soccer) game, as is Pro Evo.

Even then, he's still wrong because FIFA is for kids. Pro Evo is where it's at.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on January 26, 2010, 12:51:35 AM
I am not a sports guy in the slightest, so I still really have no clue what you're talking about. I think this proves that sports is the work of the devil to do stuff against god.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on January 26, 2010, 12:52:23 AM
*video game
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on January 26, 2010, 12:55:07 AM
Sports video games.....satan......whatever.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on January 26, 2010, 01:01:15 AM
I guess you have a point there.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on January 26, 2010, 06:31:37 AM
What the hell is FIFA?
https://tinyurl.com/o78ea9
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AndyDT on January 26, 2010, 06:48:25 AM
Sounds like BeatleMania, except for the prince instead.

BeatleMania didn't being about US-UK reunificaton...

Cricket, soccer and sons of HM subjects and Loyalists calling the shots these days might well I hope.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on January 26, 2010, 05:57:44 PM
Andy, sports and a national figure are hardly grounds for two countries unifying. You might as well say the US and Japan are going to merge because Ninja Warrior and anime are popular in America.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on January 26, 2010, 06:00:04 PM
Sounds like BeatleMania, except for the prince instead.

BeatleMania didn't being about US-UK reunificaton...

Cricket, soccer and sons of HM subjects and Loyalists calling the shots these days might well I hope.

There are no subjects and loyalists. There are citizens and diplomats.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on January 26, 2010, 10:19:14 PM
https://www.theonion.com/content/news/science_channel_refuses_to_dumb

 :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on January 26, 2010, 10:35:43 PM
https://www.theonion.com/content/news/science_channel_refuses_to_dumb

 :lol
Absolutely dead on. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: SilentFox on January 26, 2010, 11:41:04 PM
I found SilentFox!
Is it wrong that I use Scripture to back my views, if that's what I have faith in to be true?

Whatever.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on January 27, 2010, 12:07:04 AM
https://www.theonion.com/content/news/science_channel_refuses_to_dumb

 :lol
""It's like, just quit your yapping and dip the chain saw into the liquid nitrogen already.""

 :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: j on January 27, 2010, 12:52:27 AM
https://www.theonion.com/content/news/science_channel_refuses_to_dumb

 :lol
Absolutely dead on. 

-J
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: XianL on January 27, 2010, 05:24:53 AM
https://www.theonion.com/content/news/science_channel_refuses_to_dumb

 :lol
Absolutely dead on. 

-J

Back when I had Discovery channel I was quite pissed off when the programming changed in this way. I even sent a letter, for all the good it did.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on January 27, 2010, 05:36:18 AM
If it wasn't for Mythbusters, I would probably cancel my "Knowledge" pack with Sky.

I mean, who wants to watch a programme about people demolishing buildings (https://dsc.discovery.com/tv/detonators/detonators.html) ? Snore. I mean, in one episode they were just blowing up watermelons and got all excited when they managed to blow them all up :facepalm:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: XianL on January 27, 2010, 06:47:38 AM
If it wasn't for Mythbusters, I would probably cancel my "Knowledge" pack with Sky.

I mean, who wants to watch a programme about people demolishing buildings (https://dsc.discovery.com/tv/detonators/detonators.html) ? Snore. I mean, in one episode they were just blowing up watermelons and got all excited when they managed to blow them all up :facepalm:

(https://www.infidelsparadise.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/NotSureIfSerious.jpg)

Not sure if sarcastic, more like. Sure it's entertaining, but they had sacrificed too much for pure entertainment, last I watched.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on January 27, 2010, 06:57:01 AM
That was a serious post.

I haven't watched any of the new episodes of Mythbusters, if I'm being honest.

The second line of my post where I talk about people blowing up buildings, I was referring to the show in the link I provided (The detonators).
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: XianL on January 27, 2010, 07:03:27 AM
Sorry, I was talking more about Discovery (as a single case; I've never watched any other "science" channel, and even that was several years ago, before Steve Irwin passed away). I do actually have a deal of respect for Mythbusters, as they seem to take a marginally scientific perspective when attempting to disprove a myth.

I just recall seeing all the robot-building, motorcycle-customizing, blow-stuff-up programmes, and thinking along the same lines as the Onion article. After re-reading your post though, I'm fairly certain we, in fact, agree :P

What other channels come in the "Knowledge" pack?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on January 27, 2010, 07:09:12 AM
By the sounds of it, we do agree :P

Channels that come with Sky's Knowledge pack:

Animal Planet
Crime & Investigation Network
Discovery Channel
Discovery Knowledge
Discovery Science
Discovery Turbo
Nat Geo Wild
National Geographic
The Biography Channel
History
Eden
YeSTERDAY
Blighty
Military History
Animal Planet + 1
Discovery Channel + 1
Discovery Knowledge + 1
Discovery Science + 1
Eden + 1
Investigation Discovery
National Geographic + 1
History + 1
YeSTERDAY + 1

The history channels have fairly interesting stuff on them on occassionally but quite often it's just the same show about weapons over and over again.

Edit: There's also some HD versions of those channels which I can't find the listing for.

Edit 2: Got them:

Discovery HD
National Geographic HD
History HD
Bio.HD
Crime & Investigation Network HD
National Geographic Wild HD
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AndyDT on January 27, 2010, 08:06:00 AM
Andy, sports and a national figure are hardly grounds for two countries unifying. You might as well say the US and Japan are going to merge because Ninja Warrior and anime are popular in America.
Of course but they symbolise (to me) a changing in the assumptions of what demographic and sensibilities of person are now caling the shots in the US, representing the US and determining the direction of the US. It's no longer the stereotypical grey-haired anglosceptic/anglophobic Irish-American. It's people with closer links (and more importantly affinity) to Britiain, the British Empire and Commonwealth. About time IMHO.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on January 27, 2010, 08:38:44 AM
"Let's watch how they slap my belly... but REEEAAAALLLYYYY slowly." *snore*
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on February 01, 2010, 11:02:30 AM
https://www.theonion.com/content/news/bald_eagle_tired_of_everyone_just
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: lonestar on February 01, 2010, 03:16:49 PM
 :lol


Quote
"And, frankly, that's a little messed up," he added. "I'm just a bird."
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on February 04, 2010, 07:09:04 PM
So, does anyone know why the stock market fell really sharp WORLD WIDE? Not only the Dow Jones, Sao Paulo's, Chile's, Frankfurt's, London's, Athens, Milan's... YOU NAME IT.

I thought this was over.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on February 04, 2010, 08:27:46 PM
totally unrelated:

https://www.theonion.com/content/node/27674

Quote
"In order to have sex, you have to be confident in your sexuality, or at least appear confident," Pinter continued. "But in order to be confident, you have to have sex. It's, like, this Catch-22 sexual-confidence loop that I spent all of high school and half of college trying to break. And now I have to break it all over again."
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on February 04, 2010, 08:32:44 PM
totally unrelated:

https://www.theonion.com/content/node/27674

Quote
"In order to have sex, you have to be confident in your sexuality, or at least appear confident," Pinter continued. "But in order to be confident, you have to have sex. It's, like, this Catch-22 sexual-confidence loop that I spent all of high school and half of college trying to break. And now I have to break it all over again."

 :rollin :rollin
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Progmetty on February 06, 2010, 11:13:04 PM
https://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20100207/ap_on_el_ge/us_palin_s_people

Quote
All she offered was a smile when a moderator asking her questions used the phrase "President Palin." That prompted most in the audience to stand up and chant "Run, Sarah, run!"

Found that awesome  :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: mizzl on February 16, 2010, 06:52:15 AM
WHYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on February 18, 2010, 10:41:06 AM
https://www.theonion.com/content/news/scrappy_crew_of_good_morning?utm_source=onion_rss_daily

 :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: TheVoxyn on February 20, 2010, 06:13:27 PM
So, our governement fell apart last night - over the ongoing Irak debate (whether they should have gone given the information that was provided). New voting period will probably be in two months, and the statistics for now show that the guy I want the least in power (Geert Wilders, that racist douchebag) will probably get a lot of votes. Furthermore we will be without a normal governement until september/october.

Hurray...

I don't know if the term governement is correct in this case by the way, seeing as our political system is way different from the US and I couldn't find a good translation. I was talking about the people that lead our country of course.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on February 20, 2010, 06:24:40 PM
Netherlands, right?

Edit, news on the subject: https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/8525742.stm
Edit2: and the issue is Afghanistan, not Iraq.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on February 20, 2010, 06:32:26 PM
Netherlands, right?

Plan on moving? No federal gov, like your utopia.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: TheVoxyn on February 20, 2010, 06:46:21 PM
Netherlands, right?

Edit, news on the subject: https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/8525742.stm
Edit2: and the issue is Afghanistan, not Iraq.
I meant Afghanistan of course. It's 2:45am, not that sharp anymore :p.

And Netherlands indeed. This will be an interesting period... I really hope that Geert Wilders will lose some of his support. He has no actual standpoints and is just the most populistic (?) politicus you can imagine. All he says is that the islam is evil, and he tries to be in the news as much as possible (make a anti-islam movie that is based on nothing and then get mad when people dislike him).
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on February 20, 2010, 07:12:42 PM
So, the Netherlands equivalent of Sarah Palin?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: TheVoxyn on February 20, 2010, 07:23:14 PM
So, the Netherlands equivalent of Sarah Palin?
They have some similarities indeed. Seems all the 'joe the plumber' people love him, and all the people that actually dig a bit deeper into politics or have half a working brain despise him and everything he stands for. Too bad the former categorie is quite a lot bigger.

I have heard of people that were planning to vote for him (a while ago, at surveys) because he 'had nice hair'. Or because he 'was that guy from the television.' :facepalm:

Makes me wonder if democracy is all that great...
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on February 22, 2010, 09:48:45 PM
:corn FUCK!!! Colombia's president (Uribe) had a verbal fight with Chávez today in Mexico at the Summit of Rio!!!! Uribe said: "Don't leave! Stay inside and be a man. These kind of topics [Chávez blocking commerce and expropriating Colombian's companies] are supposed to be discussed here. You are brave to go and insult from far away and coward to say it in my face." As to what Chavez responded: "Go fuck yourself! (¡Vete pa'l Carajo!)".

FUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUCK!!!! :corn
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on February 23, 2010, 08:25:26 AM
It's a real shame that dueling has become a thing of the past.  It's so perfectly suited for heads of state.  I've always thought it should be brought back.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: millahh on February 23, 2010, 08:52:05 AM
Adding a marksmenship portion to presidential debates would certainly liven things up, that's for sure.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on February 23, 2010, 10:10:23 AM
It's a real shame that dueling has become a thing of the past.  It's so perfectly suited for heads of state.  I've always thought it should be brought back.
There are sources that say that at one point they said: "let's go and fix this outside". :rollin They are fucking kids who hate each other. It's not that I like him, but Chávez would have whooped Uribe's ass in a swift.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on February 23, 2010, 10:31:35 AM
I was one of the few people that thought Saddam's offer to duel Dumbass was an outstanding idea.  Unfortunately, it a lot easier to risk the lives of anonymous soldiers than your own. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: millahh on February 24, 2010, 08:04:15 AM
https://www.theonion.com/content/news/latest_sarah_palin_speech_opens
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on February 24, 2010, 08:07:05 AM
Aw man, they've blocked The Onion at my job now :(
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on February 24, 2010, 06:12:43 PM
https://www.theonion.com/content/news/latest_sarah_palin_speech_opens

 :rollin :rollin :rollin
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MetalMike06 on February 26, 2010, 02:43:53 PM
Well this sucks.

https://www.publicbroadcasting.net/kcur/news.newsmain/article/0/1/1616863/KCUR.News/KS.Smoking.Ban.Approved..Bill.Now.Goes.to.Governor
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on February 28, 2010, 10:17:54 PM
Well this sucks.

https://www.publicbroadcasting.net/kcur/news.newsmain/article/0/1/1616863/KCUR.News/KS.Smoking.Ban.Approved..Bill.Now.Goes.to.Governor

Quote
They have also criticized the bill because it exempts state-owned casinos, but not other businesses.
Talk about big cojones.  "Ah, nobody will notice, and who cares if they do.  :lol"
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: millahh on March 02, 2010, 01:57:21 PM
https://www.theonion.com/content/opinion/my_constituents_care_way_more?utm_source=onion_rss_daily
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MetalMike06 on March 11, 2010, 01:45:01 PM
Since the K2 thread got closed...Just felt like mentioning that the news here reported this morning that Kansas is now the first state that has banned the sale of K2.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on March 11, 2010, 07:00:20 PM
Since the K2 thread got closed...Just felt like mentioning that the news here reported this morning that Kansas is now the first state that has banned the sale of K2.
The first of 50.  A shame, actually.  There was some talk on other boards that maybe one state would have the balls/common sense to try regulating it instead of criminalizing it, just as an experiment.  It seems like anything that will give you a buzz and doesn't have a massive lobbying base will just never be acceptable to The Man. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on March 12, 2010, 12:50:49 AM
Since the K2 thread got closed...Just felt like mentioning that the news here reported this morning that Kansas is now the first state that has banned the sale of K2.
The first of 50.  A shame, actually.  There was some talk on other boards that maybe one state would have the balls/common sense to try regulating it instead of criminalizing it, just as an experiment.  It seems like anything that will give you a buzz and doesn't have a massive lobbying base will just never be acceptable to The Man. 

That's still possible. I mean, this is Kansas we're talking about, not Califnoria, New York, or some even a blue state.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: XianL on March 15, 2010, 05:45:05 AM
It's a shame, really. I only started drinking last summer out of curiosity of the effects, and when the time comes that I feel the want to try a different high, I'll have to go through illicit means, potentially exposing myself to criminal prosecution for merely being curious. The government tells me I can drink to get a high, but not smoke?

I've been thinking about sending an e-mail to my MLA or MP (regional Canadian provincial & federal representatives) and directly asking them why a substance such as weed is illicit. I suppose they'd just tell me it's a dangerous, addictive substance, eh?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: TheVoxyn on March 17, 2010, 04:20:32 PM
I suppose they'd just tell me it's a dangerous, addictive substance, eh?
Chances are fairly high they will. Weed seems to be seen as a lot more dangerous than alcohol. Both are legal here and alcohol certainly causes more trouble (and is also consumed more than weed though).
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on March 20, 2010, 02:13:58 PM
"Don't do it for me, do it for the people who need help"

WTF?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on March 21, 2010, 11:45:41 AM
"Don't do it for me, do it for the people who need help"

WTF?

? Obama on why we should pass health care?

I'm confused.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on March 21, 2010, 11:51:11 AM
Yeah, Obama reading his speech yesterday.

IMO, that's not an argument but just an evocation of sentiments. He's practically saying: please vote with your heart and not with your head.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: XJDenton on March 22, 2010, 05:39:46 AM
So this thing passed then?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on March 22, 2010, 08:21:26 AM
My condolences.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on March 22, 2010, 08:38:39 AM
So this thing passed then?

Yep. Apparently we should expect the tanks to be rolling down the streets any minute now.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Perpetual Change on March 22, 2010, 08:42:35 AM
My friend's FB status: RIP America: 1776-2010.

Fuck that.  Who's in for a group trip to the doctor's office?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: PlaysLikeMyung on March 22, 2010, 08:44:00 AM
My friend's FB status: RIP America: 1776-2010.

Fuck that.  Who's in for a group trip to the doctor's office?

I realized that a lot of people who are opposed to this Health Care reform don't know what the fuck they're talking about.

The arguments have boiled down to ZOMG SOCIALISM and DON'T TAX ME
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: pogoowner on March 22, 2010, 08:47:09 AM
Damn it.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Perpetual Change on March 22, 2010, 08:47:56 AM
Touche. It's not even a real national healthcare plan.  Canada and Europe have real healthcare plans.  This is something completely different, which never would have happened starting from scratch.

No one would have thought twice if the Republicans decide to expand medicaid.  

IMO, it's about time.

And Em, I don't need your sympathy to get me through the day~~.  ;D
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on March 22, 2010, 08:51:05 AM
I'm no fan of the healthcare bill, but it's fascinating to me that all of these people who think this is the death-knell for Amerika seemed to be all sunshine and lollipops in 2002.  Personally, I think the bells been pealing for a while.  This is just another chime, and nowhere near as loud as the USAPATRIOT Act or the senseless, bloody land grabs in the Middle East. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Perpetual Change on March 22, 2010, 08:52:42 AM
A reply to my friend's status:

"This country is so fucked.  Who wants to help me with starting the militia."

I know this person.  He is being completely serious.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: PlaysLikeMyung on March 22, 2010, 08:53:27 AM
It's pathetic
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on March 22, 2010, 09:11:02 AM
My friend's FB status: RIP America: 1776-2010.

Fuck that.  Who's in for a group trip to the doctor's office?
I realized that a lot of people who are opposed to this Health Care reform don't know what the fuck they're talking about.

The arguments have boiled down to ZOMG SOCIALISM and DON'T TAX ME
I love you, PLM, but seriously. No.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: PlaysLikeMyung on March 22, 2010, 09:12:48 AM
My friend's FB status: RIP America: 1776-2010.

Fuck that.  Who's in for a group trip to the doctor's office?
I realized that a lot of people who are opposed to this Health Care reform don't know what the fuck they're talking about.

The arguments have boiled down to ZOMG SOCIALISM and DON'T TAX ME
I love you, PLM, but seriously. No.

Have you talked to the people I've talked to?

They're insane
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Perpetual Change on March 22, 2010, 09:13:51 AM
No, em, he's pretty much right.  The fact that they're still calling it "Obamacare" just goes to show you how little they know.  They're completely riffing off of the fact that scared, old, white people don't like Obama by prefixing his name to everything the government does.  Did you see the statistics about when the Tea Parties were polled yet?  
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sir GuitarCozmo on March 22, 2010, 09:26:28 AM
Funny, a LOT of people I know who are bitching up a storm about this healthcare bill and farewell, America, and how much it's going to cost, are the same ones who NEVER seem to have one negative word to say about spending trillions of dollars and thousands of lives liberating a country that we at least THOUGHT maybe had some weapons that they shouldn't have had.

My brother said to my mother, via Facebook:

Quote
Tonight we got a chance to witness, firsthand, the first part of an effort by the Democrats to forcibly dismantle the country that I grew up in and love. They want to change it to something the founding fathers never intended it to be, and have ignored every bit of protest against it. They were going to have this, no matter what it costs them. It's disgusting.

Mrs. Cozmo directed me to a comment I quite liked, regarding people who love to constantly bang the "Founding Fathers Drum":

Quote
Not a single one of them could have forseen how complex the world is today.

I know how unique the founding of our country was and I appreciate the effort and sacrifice made by so many of our predecessors. But so many people refer to the intentions of the Founding Fathers when trying to decide what our policies should be today.

Our founding fathers were a product of their time and as such they wanted to govern based on those times. If any one of them were around today they would likely go insane trying to lead this country. Besides, they created a country with the intentions of the country actually advancing. Advancement brings with it change. And some change is good and some may be bad. But we need to make our decisions based on the realities of today, not by looking back at a group of people who had no possible way of knowing what obstacles would present themselves.

So founding fathers, my ass.  This country wasn't just running along, doing AWESOME until the big bad Democrats came along and fucked with the founding fathers, on a healthcare issue.

Admittedly, I don't know a whole lot about politics or this healthcare bill in specific.  For me, politics is generally like the verbal equivalent of watching paint dry.  As far as this whole healthcare thing is concerned, I think about the fact that forever and a day, you hear people bitching about how awful and unfair and stick it to the consumer the whole health care system in this country is.  Now that someone wants to attempt to do something about it, suddenly, somehow, the old system that f*cked you 234 different ways from Sunday is just fine?  WTF?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on March 22, 2010, 11:06:46 AM
I don't buy the "You are complaining about this (healthcare) but not about this (unnecessary wars)?". One thing is being your now-a-days Republican which, honestly, are in the line of Neo-Conservatism. The mainstream has been for the past year Progressives vs Neo-Cons. And this is the spectrum where people just usually lie and start their discussions not considering what others have said.

Hell, we all know that there's more than one spectrum. Concerning the Tea Party, they lack good leadership from someone who knows what it really is about. They have become people who have a vague idea of what they are supposed to do but get carried away and start shouting harangues at people who don't agree with them. They lack a focus and leadership, and thus they won't accomplish anything.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: TheVoxyn on March 22, 2010, 11:08:08 AM
I think they should take a good look at how health care is done in most European countries.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on March 22, 2010, 11:11:11 AM
I think they should take a good look at how health care is done in most European countries.
This is true. Also, they should look at how good are the fiscal books over there.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Perpetual Change on March 22, 2010, 12:19:00 PM
Quote
Hell, we all know that there's more than one spectrum. Concerning the Tea Party, they lack good leadership from someone who knows what it really is about. They have become people who have a vague idea of what they are supposed to do but get carried away and start shouting harangues at people who don't agree with them. They lack a focus and leadership, and thus they won't accomplish anything.

Because at the end of the day, people really don't give a shit about ideology. Ideology won't inspire Americans to do anything. We need buzzwords, talking points, etc. 

All these people are complaining about health-care when during the campaign the democratic candidates both said they agreed with a bill that would have been much stronger than this if not a complete government take over of the industry.  Same with Republicans-- it'll (thankfully) never be about adhering to the "small government no matter what happens or what the people demand" ideology because the minute a republican gets into office, 2/3rds of the complainers start walking around with firecrackers in their ass; just like so many of the anti-war protestors on the Obama bandwagon suddenly think the war is a good thing.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Perpetual Change on March 22, 2010, 12:25:55 PM
I think they should take a good look at how health care is done in most European countries.
This is true. Also, they should look at how good are the fiscal books over there.

Regardless, most of them look better than ours, only their people can actually go to the doctors.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on March 22, 2010, 01:20:48 PM
Even if some do, people should start looking for the best option and not for better options. I mean, you guys used to have the best medical treatment and the great majority found it affordable. Those who couldn't, found a helping hand with charity. What I find baffling is why people aren't asking why.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on March 22, 2010, 02:06:20 PM
A few gems from my Facebook news feed, featuring the Fordham University College Republicans

Quote
"That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them." I believe right now is that time.

Quote
Freedom is under attack. The constitution is under attack. But i am not worried because we will fight.

God Bless America and FUCK those who seek to destroy her.

Quote
A nation can survive its fools, and even the ambitious. But it cannot survive treason from within. An enemy at the gates is less formidable, for he is known and carries his banner openly. But the traitor moves amongst those within the gate freely, his sly whispers rustling through all the alleys, heard in the very halls of government itself. For the traitor appears not a traitor; he speaks in accents familiar to his victims, and he wears their face and their arguments, he appeals to the baseness that lies deep in the hearts of all men. He rots the soul of a nation, he works secretly and unknown in the night to undermine the pillars of the city, he infects the body politic so that it can no longer resist. A murderer is less to fear. The traitor is the plague.


Regardless of your feelings on the issue, isn't this all a little EXTREME? I'm embarrassed for my classmates, and worried that these douchebags are going to be the ones running things in a few decades.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on March 22, 2010, 02:16:48 PM
Even if some do, people should start looking for the best option and not for better options. I mean, you guys used to have the best medical treatment and the great majority found it affordable. Those who couldn't, found a helping hand with charity. What I find baffling is why people aren't asking why.
I think everybody knows why.  All aspects of the industry have become incredibly expensive because all of the people within it are trying to get rich.  Doctors, hospitals, big pharm, lawyers, insurance companies. An entire subset of civilization, all trying to get rich off of humanities interest in staying alive.  When it was nothing more than a doctor who wanted to treat people, of course it was affordable.  The days of doctors taking livestock for payment are long past.  They all want to be driving Porsches now.  
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: PlaysLikeMyung on March 22, 2010, 02:17:01 PM
this is hardly reason enough to start a revolution. And we are definitely NOT less free because of this bill
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on March 22, 2010, 02:22:33 PM
Instead of a new health care bill, Congress should be working to enact a law that says a person must be intelligent, educated, and legally sane in order to quote Cicero. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on March 22, 2010, 02:36:30 PM
Even if some do, people should start looking for the best option and not for better options. I mean, you guys used to have the best medical treatment and the great majority found it affordable. Those who couldn't, found a helping hand with charity. What I find baffling is why people aren't asking why.
I think everybody knows why.  All aspects of the industry have become incredibly expensive because all of the people within it are trying to get rich.  Doctors, hospitals, big pharm, lawyers, insurance companies. An entire subset of civilization, all trying to get rich off of humanities interest in staying alive.  When it was nothing more than a doctor who wanted to treat people, of course it was affordable.  The days of doctors taking livestock for payment are long past.  They all want to be driving Porsches now. 
You really think that it's because they want to be driving a fancy car that costs have risen up?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on March 22, 2010, 02:42:03 PM
Even if some do, people should start looking for the best option and not for better options. I mean, you guys used to have the best medical treatment and the great majority found it affordable. Those who couldn't, found a helping hand with charity. What I find baffling is why people aren't asking why.
I think everybody knows why.  All aspects of the industry have become incredibly expensive because all of the people within it are trying to get rich.  Doctors, hospitals, big pharm, lawyers, insurance companies. An entire subset of civilization, all trying to get rich off of humanities interest in staying alive.  When it was nothing more than a doctor who wanted to treat people, of course it was affordable.  The days of doctors taking livestock for payment are long past.  They all want to be driving Porsches now. 
You really think that it's because they want to be driving a fancy car that costs have risen up?
Of course that was a generalization, but I absolutely believe that the motivation of most doctors has changed from altruism to prestige and money. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: bosk1 on March 22, 2010, 04:31:17 PM
Of the ones I personally know, the vast majority couldn't care less about prestige.  Money, perhaps.  But not at the expense of their patients.  Many feel entitled to make good money because of (1) the amount of time, effort, and money it took them to get to be a doctor in the first place; (2) the amount of time, stress, and personal commitment they put into their work; and (3) they have to spend an obscene amount of money on malpractice insurance because the odds are they will be sued multiple times for malpractice during their careers whether they actually commit malpractice or not.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on March 24, 2010, 10:51:31 AM
George W. Bush doing his thing as always V. Haitians.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0DtwkTS9mq8

:rollin
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on March 24, 2010, 02:48:43 PM
George W. Bush doing his thing as always V. Haitians.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0DtwkTS9mq8

:rollin
Gotta say, wiping his hand on Clinton's sleeve was pretty slick. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on March 25, 2010, 12:14:02 PM
https://www.theonion.com/articles/like-hell-im-going-to-let-some-black-president-hel,11509/
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on March 25, 2010, 12:19:20 PM
 :lol :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on April 03, 2010, 11:57:57 AM
https://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3Dbs23CjIWMgA&h=b7fc7c412e438f6861920178a7acf443

oh for fucks sake come on.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on April 04, 2010, 02:38:13 PM
https://conservapedia.com/Liberal

I lol'd
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: yorost on April 04, 2010, 02:52:44 PM
Of the ones I personally know, the vast majority couldn't care less about prestige.  Money, perhaps.  But not at the expense of their patients.  Many feel entitled to make good money because of (1) the amount of time, effort, and money it took them to get to be a doctor in the first place; (2) the amount of time, stress, and personal commitment they put into their work; and (3) they have to spend an obscene amount of money on malpractice insurance because the odds are they will be sued multiple times for malpractice during their careers whether they actually commit malpractice or not.
Great post.  I have a number of friends becoming MD's and I can't think of a single one that is doing it for money or prestige.  The dedication they must have to have in order to finish all of their phases of training has to be incredible.  Now, some of the friends they've made in med school are pompous asses, but we can all meet that kind of person all over.

I think it is unfair to judge doctors so negatively.  They put so much time and effort into their field that if they don't actually have some sort of altruistic base their life must be miserable.  Money and prestige aren't going to make someone happy when their life is so closely attached to their job.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Zook on April 04, 2010, 03:55:53 PM
ICED EARTH SURVIVOR IS ONLINE! GO VOTE! NOW! PLEASE!
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on April 05, 2010, 04:20:54 AM
I've spoken to a person who is becoming a doctor for the money. He laughed at me for studying computing science as I wouldn't get near as enough money as he would.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: TheVoxyn on April 05, 2010, 07:27:41 AM
I've spoken to a person who is becoming a doctor for the money. He laughed at me for studying computing science as I wouldn't get near as enough money as he would.
What an Iain.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on April 06, 2010, 01:51:22 AM
"Man Attempts to Assassinate President Obama, 'But Not Because He's Black or Anything'"

https://www.theonion.com/video/man-attempts-to-assassinate-obama-but-not-because,17220/
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on April 06, 2010, 02:30:26 PM
I wouldn't want to imply that all doctors care more about money than their patient's well being; I'm sure that's not the case.  My Dr. isn't raking in the dough, and I'm positive he genuinely cares about my health.  What I do think is that people trying to figure out what to do with their life don't suddenly go "I want to help total strangers for the rest of my life."  The money and the prestige are a big part the decision to become a doctor in the first place.

Riddle me this.  If doctors are still practicing for truly altruistic reasons, why is so much of America under-served?  People in bum-fuck Nevada have terrible access to medical treatment.  The people working in hospitals up there are the altruists.  They're working for next to nothing and living in the asshole of America.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on April 16, 2010, 03:08:40 PM
So my conservative cousin posted this video: https://www.spike.com/video/brilliant-woman/3212215 on his facebook, with the comment, "this is the best and brightest in CA, and if its not obvious enough, she is a democrat."

I hate him.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: sonatafanica on April 17, 2010, 12:09:44 PM
Dude, there's a chat thread here?



So....how about those healthcare subsidized marriages and stuff
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on April 17, 2010, 06:03:21 PM
So my conservative cousin posted this video: https://www.spike.com/video/brilliant-woman/3212215 on his facebook, with the comment, "this is the best and brightest in CA, and if its not obvious enough, she is a democrat."

I hate him.
Watching that video made me die inside.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on April 18, 2010, 08:45:55 PM
I'm watching our presidential debates and it's :corn:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: TheVoxyn on April 21, 2010, 02:05:37 PM
I doubt anybody cares, but the Dutch elections are going to be pretty interesting...
Title: FAO Millahh
Post by: AndyDT on April 21, 2010, 03:28:49 PM
Millahh - you're inbox is full.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Neurasthenic on April 22, 2010, 08:11:13 PM
I doubt anybody cares, but the Dutch elections are going to be pretty interesting...
Tell us more!
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Zook on April 22, 2010, 08:16:17 PM
GAD NABBIT SOMEONE BREAK THE TIE IN MY SURVIVOR!!!

https://www.dreamtheaterforums.org/boards/index.php?topic=12550.0
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AndyDT on April 26, 2010, 05:34:59 AM
Millahh - your inbox is full
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on April 28, 2010, 07:55:24 AM
lol...Chavez has Twitter now:

https://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/americas/8648535.stm
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 06, 2010, 02:56:23 PM
Now that was a fun market plunge!
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on May 07, 2010, 04:22:53 PM
https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/05/06/rolando-negrin-full-body_n_566465.html

Quote
TSA screener Rolando Negrin is facing assault charges in a case that involves the controversial, full body scanners being adopted in airports as part of increased security measures.

The images produced by the powerful x-ray scanners--detailed enough to show breast implants--have been compared to "virtual strip-searching."

Negrin reportedly passed through the screener during a training session on how to use the device, and the revealing x-ray image of him produced by the x-ray prompted teasing from coworkers, "who joked about the size of the man's genitalia," reports The Smoking Gun.

The Smoking Gun adds,
"The X-ray revealed that [Negrin] has a small penis and co-workers made fun of him on a daily basis," reported cops. Following his arrest, Negrin told police that he "could not take the jokes anymore and lost his mind.


Negrin allegedly confronted his colleague, Hugo Osorno, in a parking lot after work and assaulted him with a police baton while demanding an apology.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 07, 2010, 04:33:24 PM
https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/05/06/rolando-negrin-full-body_n_566465.html

Quote
TSA screener Rolando Negrin is facing assault charges in a case that involves the controversial, full body scanners being adopted in airports as part of increased security measures.

The images produced by the powerful x-ray scanners--detailed enough to show breast implants--have been compared to "virtual strip-searching."

Negrin reportedly passed through the screener during a training session on how to use the device, and the revealing x-ray image of him produced by the x-ray prompted teasing from coworkers, "who joked about the size of the man's genitalia," reports The Smoking Gun.

The Smoking Gun adds,
"The X-ray revealed that [Negrin] has a small penis and co-workers made fun of him on a daily basis," reported cops. Following his arrest, Negrin told police that he "could not take the jokes anymore and lost his mind.


Negrin allegedly confronted his colleague, Hugo Osorno, in a parking lot after work and assaulted him with a police baton while demanding an apology.
I was gonna set that guy's mugshot up as my wallpaper at the shop.  While the story itself is funny as hell, the picture is absolutely priceless.  You can just look at him and tell A. he's got a little dick, and B.  he has absolutely no sense of humor about it whatsoever.  He looks exactly what the person in the story should look like. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 07, 2010, 04:51:57 PM
https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/05/06/rolando-negrin-full-body_n_566465.html

Quote
TSA screener Rolando Negrin is facing assault charges in a case that involves the controversial, full body scanners being adopted in airports as part of increased security measures.

The images produced by the powerful x-ray scanners--detailed enough to show breast implants--have been compared to "virtual strip-searching."

Negrin reportedly passed through the screener during a training session on how to use the device, and the revealing x-ray image of him produced by the x-ray prompted teasing from coworkers, "who joked about the size of the man's genitalia," reports The Smoking Gun.

The Smoking Gun adds,
"The X-ray revealed that [Negrin] has a small penis and co-workers made fun of him on a daily basis," reported cops. Following his arrest, Negrin told police that he "could not take the jokes anymore and lost his mind.


Negrin allegedly confronted his colleague, Hugo Osorno, in a parking lot after work and assaulted him with a police baton while demanding an apology.
I was gonna set that guy's mugshot up as my wallpaper at the shop.  While the story itself is funny as hell, the picture is absolutely priceless.  You can just look at him and tell A. he's got a little dick, and B.  he has absolutely no sense of humor about it whatsoever.  He looks exactly what the person in the story should look like.  


*edit*
 
Nevermind...
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on May 09, 2010, 03:25:53 PM
I was gonna set that guy's mugshot up as my wallpaper at the shop.  While the story itself is funny as hell, the picture is absolutely priceless.  You can just look at him and tell A. he's got a little dick, and B.  he has absolutely no sense of humor about it whatsoever.  He looks exactly what the person in the story should look like. 

 :rollin
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Progmetty on May 10, 2010, 05:38:43 AM
Just as I thought I finally understood what Agnostic means that guy says "Athiests who hate our heavenly father and Agnostics who're aren't sure if they hate our heavenly father"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P47OC439x88
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: millahh on May 12, 2010, 06:27:33 PM
Millahh - your inbox is full

 :(

On the up side, I had a good excuse for  not noticing...been in Belize for a couple of weeks!
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 13, 2010, 02:23:42 PM
Hey, zerogravityfat, what's the deal between Greece and Turkey?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AndyDT on May 14, 2010, 06:26:22 AM
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/_rqH4fUbko2U/S-wYJ0FwXtI/AAAAAAAAQuU/NpLrw3vek2Q/s1600/death+to+euros.jpg)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 14, 2010, 11:59:56 AM
Douglas Adams actually got it.

Quote
[An extraterrestrial robot and spaceship has just landed on earth. The robot steps out of the spaceship...]

"I come in peace," it said, adding after a long moment of further grinding, "take me to your Lizard."

Ford Prefect, of course, had an explanation for this...

"It comes from a very ancient democracy, you see..."

"You mean, it comes from a world of lizards?"

"No," said Ford, who by this time was a little more rational and coherent than he had been, having finally had the coffee forced down him, "nothing so simple. Nothing anything like to straightforward. On its world, the people are people. The leaders are lizards. The people hate the lizards and the lizards rule the people."

"Odd," said Arthur, "I thought you said it was a democracy."

"I did," said ford. "It is."

"So," said Arthur, hoping he wasn't sounding ridiculously obtuse, "why don't the people get rid of the lizards?"

"It honestly doesn't occur to them," said Ford. "They've all got the vote, so they all pretty much assume that the government they've voted in more or less approximates to the government they want."

"You mean they actually vote for the lizards?"

"Oh yes," said Ford with a shrug, "of course."

"But," said Arthur, going for the big one again, "why?"

"Because if they didn't vote for a lizard," said Ford, "the wrong lizard might get in. Got any gin?"
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on May 14, 2010, 12:02:38 PM
 :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AndyDT on May 18, 2010, 09:22:46 AM
Is there some kind of problem with posting positive material now?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: PlaysLikeMyung on May 18, 2010, 09:27:08 AM
Douglas Adams actually got it.

Quote
[An extraterrestrial robot and spaceship has just landed on earth. The robot steps out of the spaceship...]

"I come in peace," it said, adding after a long moment of further grinding, "take me to your Lizard."

Ford Prefect, of course, had an explanation for this...

"It comes from a very ancient democracy, you see..."

"You mean, it comes from a world of lizards?"

"No," said Ford, who by this time was a little more rational and coherent than he had been, having finally had the coffee forced down him, "nothing so simple. Nothing anything like to straightforward. On its world, the people are people. The leaders are lizards. The people hate the lizards and the lizards rule the people."

"Odd," said Arthur, "I thought you said it was a democracy."

"I did," said ford. "It is."

"So," said Arthur, hoping he wasn't sounding ridiculously obtuse, "why don't the people get rid of the lizards?"

"It honestly doesn't occur to them," said Ford. "They've all got the vote, so they all pretty much assume that the government they've voted in more or less approximates to the government they want."

"You mean they actually vote for the lizards?"

"Oh yes," said Ford with a shrug, "of course."

"But," said Arthur, going for the big one again, "why?"

"Because if they didn't vote for a lizard," said Ford, "the wrong lizard might get in. Got any gin?"

I love this series :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on May 26, 2010, 12:10:29 PM
https://www.theonion.com/articles/white-house-jester-beheaded-for-making-fun-of-soar,17495/

 :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 26, 2010, 09:33:42 PM
OK, I never thought to see the day...

I was coming back home from having a chat with some friends at this restaurant and this guy comes over me. "Excuse me, do you speak English?" I was surprised. No one speaks English here, and you will never get attended by someone in English unless you are in a big and expensive place. So I was surprised because I was stopped by a guy talking to me in English. I said "Yeah". I noticed how he was dressed; he was missing all of his front teeth; his face was dirty and his hands were dirty. He extended his hand and said "What's up, man? I'm American". Because I've lived here all my life I know how things run here. In two seconds I could just read the background of this guy. I was thinking to myself "He's American, so what? yeah, his accent is legit but he wants your money". He extended his dirty hand at me for me to shake it, I looked at it and said in a serious tone "No!". He asked: "Hey, man, could you please help me out?" I knew he wanted money. I knew he wanted money for drugs. I said to him "NO" and I give a step forward, he threw away at me some papers he had in his hand and says "Fuck off". I turned my head and yelled "FUCK YOU!" and walked away.

I never thought to see the day where an American will come here to Colombia, get his life in the toilet because he got addicted to drugs, and expected me to help him get his hourly fix. An American almsman in Colombia? It's supposed to be the other way around!
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AndyDT on May 27, 2010, 06:54:00 AM
OK, I never thought to see the day...

I was coming back home from having a chat with some friends at this restaurant and this guy comes over me. "Excuse me, do you speak English?" I was surprised. No one speaks English here, and you will never get attended by someone in English unless you are in a big and expensive place. So I was surprised because I was stopped by a guy talking to me in English. I said "Yeah". I noticed how he was dressed; he was missing all of his front teeth; his face was dirty and his hands were dirty. He extended his hand and said "What's up, man? I'm American". Because I've lived here all my life I know how things run here. In two seconds I could just read the background of this guy. I was thinking to myself "He's American, so what? yeah, his accent is legit but he wants your money". He extended his dirty hand at me for me to shake it, I looked at it and said in a serious tone "No!". He asked: "Hey, man, could you please help me out?" I knew he wanted money. I knew he wanted money for drugs. I said to him "NO" and I give a step forward, he threw away at me some papers he had in his hand and says "Fuck off". I turned my head and yelled "FUCK YOU!" and walked away.

I never thought to see the day where an American will come here to Colombia, get his life in the toilet because he got addicted to drugs, and expected me to help him get his hourly fix. An American almsman in Colombia? It's supposed to be the other way around!

You "knew" he wanted drugs? Did you ask?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 27, 2010, 08:02:28 AM
I'm no expert, true, but when you have been living here all your life you know how a street junkie looks like -no matter the nationality (and I've seen street junkies here that came from Peru, Argentina etc).

Had him be just a beggar he would have walked away. Junkies have the peculiarity of dismissing you in an aggressive way when you don't collaborate with them. This asshole even threw me some papers at me saying "fuck off".
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on May 27, 2010, 12:16:06 PM
Andy, every beggar wants money to buy alcohol and drugs, that's why they're bums in the first place.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AndyDT on May 28, 2010, 05:44:03 AM
I'm no expert, true, but when you have been living here all your life you know how a street junkie looks like -no matter the nationality (and I've seen street junkies here that came from Peru, Argentina etc).

Had him be just a beggar he would have walked away. Junkies have the peculiarity of dismissing you in an aggressive way when you don't collaborate with them. This asshole even threw me some papers at me saying "fuck off".

I thought you said that was after you abused him aggressively?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 28, 2010, 09:42:44 AM
It might have sounded that way, but I knew at first glance what I was facing with.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AndyDT on May 28, 2010, 10:04:05 AM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0z_Qqnq8pI8&NR=1

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MyVDOB0wU78&feature=related
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eNuHTEqSoRs&feature=related
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 30, 2010, 09:05:32 AM
OK, today could be a historic day for Colombia. We vote for our president (today is the first round -the candidate needs 50%+1 vote to win unanimously or there will be a second round with the top two candidates of today's election).

This could be the first time that an independent, under the Green Party flag, could be named president of Colombia. He has no strings attached, he's honest and has an impeccable record.

My problem is that his ideas are too socialist for me and he wants the State to grow bigger but more transparent. That's a contradiction in my book. Hopefully, the elections today will be held with peace and a massive a assistance in the urns.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: TheVoxyn on May 31, 2010, 05:19:29 PM
Dutch elections next week, going to be very interesting.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 31, 2010, 06:44:49 PM
What's the most likely situation over there?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: TheVoxyn on June 01, 2010, 04:43:33 AM
What's the most likely situation over there?
Thats the thing, nobody seems to know. Some parties are already announcing preferences for a coalition before the elections have even started. But almost none are compatible seeing as they are also stating that some things are 'breaking points' for them (Things they absolutely don't/do want to change).

Also, the two parties who are now projected to get most votes are a pretty left and a pretty right party. The biggest party has to make a coalition, so a few votes could make a huge difference.

O, and we also have this extreme right party, led by Geert Wilders. You might know him from the fact that he is a Islam-hating attention whore.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: PlaysLikeMyung on June 02, 2010, 02:33:14 PM
Prime Minister of Japan resigns

German President resigns


Who's next?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on June 02, 2010, 03:21:56 PM
Andy, every beggar wants money to buy alcohol and drugs, that's why they're bums in the first place.
Often, but definitely not always the case.  I work in an area with a ton of bums, and I can tell you that while plenty of them are drunks, plenty of them aren't.  Moreover, I suspect quite a few of them are drunks because they're homeless and not the other way around.  I can tell you that if I were stuck in that kind of cycle1, I'd probably want to get shitfaced every night too. 

1Yes, I'm aware that "stuck" is a debatable term.  Not relevant to the topic at hand.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on June 02, 2010, 03:24:38 PM
No I totally agree, I was semi-mocking emindead's post. I get to interact with the local bums on a daily basis as well.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on June 02, 2010, 03:55:33 PM
No I totally agree, I was semi-mocking emindead's post. I get to interact with the local bums on a daily basis as well.
Sorry, didn't catch that (though it's pretty clear in retrospect).  I certainly figured being in So-Cal you'd be pretty knowledgeable. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on June 02, 2010, 04:00:04 PM
Prime Minister of Japan resigns

German President resigns


Who's next?

I hope the Prime Minister of Israel. Oh lord what a good day that will be.

That is of course until he is replaced with another psycho douche bag.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: PlaysLikeMyung on June 02, 2010, 07:57:45 PM
Prime Minister of Japan resigns

German President resigns


Who's next?

I hope the Prime Minister of Israel. Oh lord what a good day that will be.

That is of course until he is replaced with another psycho douche bag.

I agree, actually :-\
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on June 02, 2010, 08:10:26 PM
Seriously, at this point the only hope I see for Israel is either...

A) The religious right realizes they are ruinign everything and change all of their policies
or
B) A civil war happens and the moderates take over without the consent of the religious extremists who need be to kicked out.


Seriously, I have so many ideas as to how to fix that country, sucks I'll never be in a place to do anything about it.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on June 02, 2010, 08:19:59 PM
Andy, every beggar wants money to buy alcohol and drugs, that's why they're bums in the first place.
Often, but definitely not always the case.  I work in an area with a ton of bums, and I can tell you that while plenty of them are drunks, plenty of them aren't.  Moreover, I suspect quite a few of them are drunks because they're homeless and not the other way around.  I can tell you that if I were stuck in that kind of cycle1, I'd probably want to get shitfaced every night too. 

1Yes, I'm aware that "stuck" is a debatable term.  Not relevant to the topic at hand.
I'm certain he was a drug addict.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on June 02, 2010, 10:10:43 PM
Seriously, at this point the only hope I see for Israel is either...

A) The religious right realizes they are ruinign everything and change all of their policies
or
B) A civil war happens and the moderates take over without the consent of the religious extremists who need be to kicked out.


Seriously, I have so many ideas as to how to fix that country, sucks I'll never be in a place to do anything about it.

For a second there, I could swear you said America...
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on June 02, 2010, 10:12:25 PM
Americas leadership isn't NEARLY as bad as Israels. Hell, even bush wasn't as bad as Israels recent leadership.

However, I know a lot of americans associate the country to the leader. So like when they hated bush, they for some reason hated america. I don't do that. I hate the current Israeli government, but I love my country. Not blindly, as I hope some of you can see.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AndyDT on June 03, 2010, 04:31:05 AM
but I love my country.
Roll out Cpl. Matt Barlow.
Title: House of Lords
Post by: AndyDT on June 12, 2010, 05:38:52 AM

By the way, there isn't just one black woman in the House of Lords:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valerie_Amos,_Baroness_Amos
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: hefdaddy42 on June 16, 2010, 09:56:23 AM
Last night, I was channel-surfing the various "news" networks following the President's speech.  I was surprised by two things:

1) The talking heads on MSNBC (Olbermann and Matthews), which I think we can all agree is the most left-leaning network, completely lambasted Obama.

2) On FOX Lies, O'Reilly was hosting Palin, and referred to her as "Governor."  WTF, she quit, she doesn't get to wear that title anymore.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nick on June 16, 2010, 10:36:38 AM
2) You can resign as president and you're still forever referred to as Mr. President. It's just the way it's done.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: hefdaddy42 on June 16, 2010, 02:59:03 PM
2) You can resign as president and you're still forever referred to as Mr. President. It's just the way it's done.
Was Nixon referred to as Mr. President after he left?  I could be wrong, but I don't think so.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on June 16, 2010, 03:05:29 PM
1) The talking heads on MSNBC (Olbermann and Matthews), which I think we can all agree is the most left-leaning network, completely lambasted Obama.

My parents watch MSNBC all the time, and I see that pretty often actually. They're definitely left-leaning, but they're not nearly as pro-Obama.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on June 16, 2010, 03:53:37 PM
2) You can resign as president and you're still forever referred to as Mr. President. It's just the way it's done.
Was Nixon referred to as Mr. President after he left?  I could be wrong, but I don't think so.
We've had this discussion in another thread. 

Formally, neither presidents nor governors get to keep their titles.  The rule is if there is only one at a time, then that person gets the title.  President Obama.  Mr Clinton, Mr. Nixon, etc.  The Honorable is an acceptable honorific which remains in place:  The Honorable Mr. Dumbass.   Judges, congressmen, generals, etc. all get to keep their titles since it's not exclusive to the current holder. 

In private, it's considered acceptable to use any title; all of their friends refer[ed] to President Nixon and Speaker Gingrich.  It's considered a courtesy title. 

Lastly, people who retire can choose to revert back to a previous title if it's acceptable after the fact.  General Eisenhower>>>President Eisenhower>>> General Eisenhower, Ret.  Clinton can't go back to Governor Clinton because of the first rule.

https://www.formsofaddress.info/former.html#FO011

Also, Fuckwad O'Reilley might not have been technically incorrect, depending on the context.  Basically, he can refer to her any way she wants.  While Governor Palin is technically incorrect,  she can ask to be called "Her Royal majesty, the Queen of Shit for Brains" if she'd like (see Nixon and Gingrich).  Also, if he's referring to her in the third person, then it's acceptable for reporters to use an honorific to be more specific, though appending former would be the non-biased way to go about it. 

Sincerely,

Clifford Claven
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on June 16, 2010, 11:52:10 PM
This was too obviously a derailment...

Quote
Because of what I bolded... can the environment be incidentally on their way to profits? Of course! Going "green" is the way of the future because going "green" simply means getting more efficient. McDondalds isn't just going to go green just because it improves their public image, but because it will also, eventually, save them money.

I disagree. Going green is switching to methods of power which damage the environment the least. Oil and Gasoline are the cheapest sources of power right now which makes them the most efficient to use. I have no doubt that if the green movement never existed that any non essential industrial green improvements would never be made ever. In fact, artificially requiring companies to switch without the proper mechanisms causing the market to naturally shift causes more eventual harm then good.

It's also about reducing our demands, which not only eases the demand on a fledgling green energy industry, but it quite obviously saves you money. Lower monthly bills eventually counter the initial cost of investment, just like how higher monthly income eventually counter's the initial cost of investment.

El Barto, you have any insight on the wind industry in Texas? From what I've heard, the State created a carbon market, and made incentives for there to be wind energy. The market took off, exceeding expectations, and Texas now leads the nation in Wind energy production.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: icysk8r on June 16, 2010, 11:57:33 PM
Hello there.  I'm gonna try posting in this forum more often.  I may not be the most politically intelligent person, but I do have solid opinions on things I'd like to express. I'm pretty good at debating things with my stepdad, so I'll see how I do here.  So give me some time to get used to everything in here.
Thanks!
-Collin
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on June 18, 2010, 08:16:56 AM
El Barto, you have any insight on the wind industry in Texas? From what I've heard, the State created a carbon market, and made incentives for there to be wind energy. The market took off, exceeding expectations, and Texas now leads the nation in Wind energy production.
Don't know anything about government incentives.  Wind has always been pretty popular here, whether or not that's due to those incentives, I have no idea.  The problem now is that the addition of so much wind power has saturated the infrastructure.  T Boone Pickens was building what would have been one of the largest wind farms in the world, and has had to postpone it indefinitely due in part to a lack of available transmission lines.   
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on June 18, 2010, 06:55:46 PM
Ya, forgetting about transmission lines was a major oops in the entire ordeal, but that's not an entirely hard thing to accomplish (that is, there's no technological issue). But... doesn't reaching that infrastructural bottleneck show how much wind energy has shot up in the market place?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on June 20, 2010, 06:04:07 PM
Today Colombia elected its worst president. It's a sad day.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: ddtonfire on June 20, 2010, 08:22:34 PM
Ya, forgetting about transmission lines was a major oops in the entire ordeal, but that's not an entirely hard thing to accomplish (that is, there's no technological issue). But... doesn't reaching that infrastructural bottleneck show how much wind energy has shot up in the market place?

The infrastructure's also ~60 years old and really showed its vulnerability/inability the 2003 blackout.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on June 21, 2010, 03:13:34 PM
Ya, forgetting about transmission lines was a major oops in the entire ordeal, but that's not an entirely hard thing to accomplish (that is, there's no technological issue). But... doesn't reaching that infrastructural bottleneck show how much wind energy has shot up in the market place?

The infrastructure's also ~60 years old and really showed its vulnerability/inability the 2003 blackout.

Ya, we really need to update our infrastructure. We waste a lot of energy in the ones we have now.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on June 21, 2010, 03:44:00 PM
Ya, forgetting about transmission lines was a major oops in the entire ordeal, but that's not an entirely hard thing to accomplish (that is, there's no technological issue). But... doesn't reaching that infrastructural bottleneck show how much wind energy has shot up in the market place?

The infrastructure's also ~60 years old and really showed its vulnerability/inability the 2003 blackout.

Ya, we really need to update our infrastructure. We waste a lot of energy in the ones we have now.
Interesting.  I'm not sure we should even think about upgrading infrastructure now, since we have no idea what we'll be upgrading to.  In the case of electricity, there is no efficient means of transporting it.  We don't know what future demands will be (they might be lower).  We don't know where it will come from.  A simple prediction might be that most buildings become electrically self-sufficient in the not-to-distant future. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on June 21, 2010, 04:56:40 PM
Ya, forgetting about transmission lines was a major oops in the entire ordeal, but that's not an entirely hard thing to accomplish (that is, there's no technological issue). But... doesn't reaching that infrastructural bottleneck show how much wind energy has shot up in the market place?

The infrastructure's also ~60 years old and really showed its vulnerability/inability the 2003 blackout.

Ya, we really need to update our infrastructure. We waste a lot of energy in the ones we have now.
Interesting.  I'm not sure we should even think about upgrading infrastructure now, since we have no idea what we'll be upgrading to.  In the case of electricity, there is no efficient means of transporting it.  We don't know what future demands will be (they might be lower).  We don't know where it will come from.  A simple prediction might be that most buildings become electrically self-sufficient in the not-to-distant future. 

Good point, a delocalized power grid would completely change everything. I still think there will be some need for energy transportation, especially in big cities. Updating our power lines would not only allow for the transportation of the energy, but would waste less of it, reducing demand.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Tick on June 21, 2010, 04:56:57 PM
(https://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m188/Bushwack_2006/ATT00223.jpg)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on June 21, 2010, 09:15:07 PM
Ya, forgetting about transmission lines was a major oops in the entire ordeal, but that's not an entirely hard thing to accomplish (that is, there's no technological issue). But... doesn't reaching that infrastructural bottleneck show how much wind energy has shot up in the market place?

The infrastructure's also ~60 years old and really showed its vulnerability/inability the 2003 blackout.

Ya, we really need to update our infrastructure. We waste a lot of energy in the ones we have now.
Interesting.  I'm not sure we should even think about upgrading infrastructure now, since we have no idea what we'll be upgrading to.  In the case of electricity, there is no efficient means of transporting it.  We don't know what future demands will be (they might be lower).  We don't know where it will come from.  A simple prediction might be that most buildings become electrically self-sufficient in the not-to-distant future. 

Good point, a delocalized power grid would completely change everything. I still think there will be some need for energy transportation, especially in big cities. Updating our power lines would not only allow for the transportation of the energy, but would waste less of it, reducing demand.


Are there ways that power transmission lines can be upgraded to become more efficient? 

If the only solution is to build more of them to offset loss, then I'd suggest that the better option would be to lessen demand downstream where possible (self-sufficient buildings) so that the places that still rely on massive amounts of external power can have more of the existing capacity. 




Quote
Tick's picture
Since he's actually somewhat bright, and I never associated him with being bitter, I'd say the description sucks (though he does have shitty taste in beer).
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Tick on June 21, 2010, 09:18:44 PM



Quote
Tick's picture
Since he's actually somewhat bright, and I never associated him with being bitter, I'd say the description sucks (though he does have shitty taste in beer).
[/quote]

Obama blows! Anything degrading him is funny in my books. :tick2: :metal
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on June 22, 2010, 12:23:59 AM
Ya, forgetting about transmission lines was a major oops in the entire ordeal, but that's not an entirely hard thing to accomplish (that is, there's no technological issue). But... doesn't reaching that infrastructural bottleneck show how much wind energy has shot up in the market place?

The infrastructure's also ~60 years old and really showed its vulnerability/inability the 2003 blackout.

Ya, we really need to update our infrastructure. We waste a lot of energy in the ones we have now.
Interesting.  I'm not sure we should even think about upgrading infrastructure now, since we have no idea what we'll be upgrading to.  In the case of electricity, there is no efficient means of transporting it.  We don't know what future demands will be (they might be lower).  We don't know where it will come from.  A simple prediction might be that most buildings become electrically self-sufficient in the not-to-distant future. 

Good point, a delocalized power grid would completely change everything. I still think there will be some need for energy transportation, especially in big cities. Updating our power lines would not only allow for the transportation of the energy, but would waste less of it, reducing demand.


Are there ways that power transmission lines can be upgraded to become more efficient? 

high-voltage transmission lines. It's nothing new, it's something we already do, we just don't fund it enough. But I also want to stress storage. At night, we produce a lot of energy which never gets used, so if we stored that, we would reduce the demand for new power plants. Some idea's I've seen for this are quite ingenious, like using an artificial underground lake to basically store wind energy; it works just like a damn during the day, just the water goes underground; then at night, when the wind is still active, that energy is used to pump the water back up into the river / water supply.

Quote
If the only solution is to build more of them to offset loss, then I'd suggest that the better option would be to lessen demand downstream where possible (self-sufficient buildings) so that the places that still rely on massive amounts of external power can have more of the existing capacity. 

I agree, but it seems like in the meantime we can improve the grid as well.

As for that Obama picture.. not a bad play on words/meaning, but I find it ironic that the author says Obama has no head. Disagree with him all you want, the man is no dummy.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on June 22, 2010, 06:05:45 AM
Anyway British folk following George Osbourne delivering his first budget?

https://news.bbc.co.uk/1/shared/bsp/hi/politics/live_event/
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on June 22, 2010, 08:32:45 PM

Obama blows! Anything degrading him is funny in my books. :tick2: :metal

:facepalm:



Just read the McChrystal Rolling Stone article. :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MetalMike06 on June 22, 2010, 08:43:39 PM
Today Colombia elected its worst president. It's a sad day.

Last night, the local evening news here said that the new Colombian president is from Kansas, or went to school here at KU or something. Interesting.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on June 22, 2010, 09:53:12 PM

Just read the McChrystal Rolling Stone article. :lol

Just read TWJ's take on it.  They're really calling for his ass.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on June 22, 2010, 11:09:14 PM
Today Colombia elected its worst president. It's a sad day.
Last night, the local evening news here said that the new Colombian president is from Kansas, or went to school here at KU or something. Interesting.
Yeah, more like he went there. Is that actually a good Uni? Because here say that it is a regular one. But I wouldn't know...
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on June 22, 2010, 11:44:03 PM

Just read the McChrystal Rolling Stone article. :lol

Just read TWJ's take on it.  They're really calling for his ass.

I think the man wants to be fired, it's almost like he pulled a George Costanza. And I mean, I completely disagree with Obama's strategy, even the one he talked about during the campaign... but I'm not a General, in charge of strategy, attempting to lead troops to victory... nor am I the underling of Obama.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Tick on June 23, 2010, 09:08:40 AM

Just read the McChrystal Rolling Stone article. :lol

Just read TWJ's take on it.  They're really calling for his ass.
McChrystal was wrong to dishonor the commander and chief in a tabloid, and in a piece of shit rag like Rolling Stone of all places. His thoughts were quite valid but definitely misplaced. Two wrongs don't make a right and maybe he has enough of Obama and this is his way oot. Obama will look bad no matter what he does on this.tick2:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on June 25, 2010, 11:51:13 AM
Just read the RS article on McChrystal.  RS is the biggest joke ever as a music magazine, but their political writing is often quite good.  This was a damned enlightening piece of work.  It provided a good portrait of an interesting guy, and pointed out the good/bad of the situation without pretending to know the answers.

This whole situation is a bummer.  McChrystal seems like a damned useful guy to have working.  Unfortunately, CI is invariably a losing proposition.  The war in Afghanistan became unwinnable as soon as it became a military operation; about 3 months in.  This guy was absolutely wrong and needed to be fired, but in many other instances, he'd be (and was) fantastic at his job.  Just don't ask him to do the impossible, and CI in this situation is impossible. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on June 25, 2010, 03:22:35 PM
But... isn't McChrystal the one who pushed for the current operations? So it's not as if he was asked to do something impossible, he suggested doing something impossible, and then realized it.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on June 25, 2010, 03:43:41 PM
But... isn't McChrystal the one who pushed for the current operations? So it's not as if he was asked to do something impossible, he suggested doing something impossible, and then realized it.


Definitely true.  However, I'd guess his only options were to tell the C&C that the war is unwinnable and pull out, or adopt a CI strategy.  He didn't choose CI.  He inherited an insurgency and had to make a plan.  He knew the difficulties and was aware that his plan would take many years; many more than he had.  I'd blame is predicament on the last two presidents, as well as each successor until we get to the one with the balls to say "we're out of here."  The president that will win this war is the one who can admit that we already lost. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on June 25, 2010, 04:57:19 PM
How did he not choose CI? You yourself point out that he did have options, he didn't have to choose to fight. Isn't there a saying about bad generals, and not knowing the right time to fight? I just don't see how any of McChrsytals actions were involuntary. He had a bad situations to deal with, yes, but I have yet to see any evidence to suggest he wasn't fully free in how he responded. Obama went to him for advice on how to win the war, and McChyrstal gave him a CI plan...

But yes, the sooner we pull out, the better.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on June 25, 2010, 09:59:51 PM
He had a choice if you consider tendering your resignation a valid option.  It's either "I quit, seeya," or "well, fuck, I guess lets deal with the insurgency then."  I don't think he had much choice on the professional level.  His job was to continue the war against Afghanistan.  He chose to remain at his job and CI was the hand he was dealt. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MetalMike06 on June 25, 2010, 10:55:33 PM
Today Colombia elected its worst president. It's a sad day.
Last night, the local evening news here said that the new Colombian president is from Kansas, or went to school here at KU or something. Interesting.
Yeah, more like he went there. Is that actually a good Uni? Because here say that it is a regular one. But I wouldn't know...

There really isn't anything outrageously special or prestigious about it. Not a bad school though. But yeah, it's just a regular public university.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on June 26, 2010, 03:08:16 AM
He had a choice if you consider tendering your resignation a valid option.  It's either "I quit, seeya," or "well, fuck, I guess lets deal with the insurgency then."  I don't think he had much choice on the professional level.  His job was to continue the war against Afghanistan.  He chose to remain at his job and CI was the hand he was dealt. 

Call me idealistic, I just don't think a General should put his profession above the troops he's commanding and putting into harms way. War is stupid fucking enough to begin with, and the last thing soldiers need is a General who's more concerned about his salary then their well-being.

Plus, there's no real certainty what would have happened had he suggested a withdrawal. Many people within the Military may not have liked it, but none of that matters given the President's commands.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on June 26, 2010, 12:17:07 PM
He had a choice if you consider tendering your resignation a valid option.  It's either "I quit, seeya," or "well, fuck, I guess lets deal with the insurgency then."  I don't think he had much choice on the professional level.  His job was to continue the war against Afghanistan.  He chose to remain at his job and CI was the hand he was dealt. 

Call me idealistic, I just don't think a General should put his profession above the troops he's commanding and putting into harms way. War is stupid fucking enough to begin with, and the last thing soldiers need is a General who's more concerned about his salary then their well-being.

Plus, there's no real certainty what would have happened had he suggested a withdrawal. Many people within the Military may not have liked it, but none of that matters given the President's commands.
I don't know that he didn't suggest withdrawal.  Whether he did or not, if the decision has been made to continue the war, then any general worth a damn will take the attitude that they're the best man for the job.  This guy in particular was highly arrogant, and undoubtedly believed that if there was to be a CI operation, then he stood the best chance of pulling it off.  That's not to say that he liked the idea, just that he wanted the best for it if that was the decision.  This is a professional decision not motivated by personal gain. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on June 26, 2010, 08:56:52 PM
I don't know that he didn't suggest withdrawal.

I suppose in time we may know whether or not he did, but it doesn't seem like a very plausible scenario to me.

And, I'm sorry, but I just don't see how a "professional decision" cannot be "motivated by personal gain." That seems like an inherent contradiction to me - or does it have to do with the hopeful altruism of the military?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: ogrejedi on June 27, 2010, 02:04:11 PM
I specifically remember Obama promising to get the U.S. out of Iraq in 2009. He said it when campaigning against Hillary Clinton: "I was against the war in 2003, I'm against the war in 2008, and I'm going to get us out of the war in 2009." I'm surprised this hasn't been talked about more. Well, not surprised, since the media is the 4th branch of the government.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on June 27, 2010, 10:42:51 PM
The logic, it burns:

https://www.healthy-eating-politics.com/american-diabetes-association.html
(https://www.fathead-movie.com/images/WhoGivesCarbs.jpg)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on June 28, 2010, 12:13:37 AM
The logic, it burns:

https://www.healthy-eating-politics.com/american-diabetes-association.html
(https://www.fathead-movie.com/images/WhoGivesCarbs.jpg)

This ignores humans use of agriculture in the past several thousand years, and ignores the presence of high fructose corn syrup (which contains 45% glucose) in almost all processed foods.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on June 28, 2010, 01:10:03 AM
How do any of those things change either of the conclusions?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on June 28, 2010, 07:36:30 PM
Because the problem is not with "bread, cereal, rice, and pasta," as the poster/picture is saying.

WHich also means the food pyramid isn't the great evil you want it to be.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on June 28, 2010, 08:22:09 PM
No, it is precisely what the poster is saying. The problem is carbohydrates whether they contain hfcs or not. The federal dietary guidelines also recommend way too many as part of a healthy diet.

According to the FDA a healthy adult male should be eating 300 carbs per day from fruit or otherwise. Do you know what that would do to anyones blood sugar? The results would be disastrous and almost certainly cause the person to become fat and develop insulin resistance and diabetes as well as a number of ailments commonly associated with obesity.

Kind of like exactly what is going on right now...
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on June 28, 2010, 09:00:35 PM
Not all carbohydrates effects the body in the same way. Fructose causes increased insulin resistance and bad cholesterol, as compared to glucose.

Besides, remember that I don't agree with a recommended diet by the government. There isn't a one size fit's all diet. However, that poster throws the baby out with the bath water. Yes, we eat too much carbohydrates, but don't demonize grains in the process - demonize the vast amounts of sweeteners and sugars Americans digest in just about everything.


Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on June 28, 2010, 09:19:02 PM
NR, I'm just curious, are you under the impression that all vegetarians and vegans are fat with diabetes and heart problems? It seems you say meat is the best thing to eat and everything else is bad for you.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on June 28, 2010, 09:22:31 PM
No, you are confusing two things. Glucose is used by the body as a fuel source for some things, but glucose and fructose are both simple sugars and both cause the same adverse affects in the body when consumed in more than small quantities.

https://www.webmd.com/heart/metabolic-syndrome/news/20090421/fresh-take-on-fructose-vs-glucose?page=2

Quote
Havel acknowledges that the study does little to answer the question of whether the body processes high-fructose corn syrup differently from table sugar or other sweeteners.

Cardiologist James Rippe, MD, who is a consultant for the Corn Refiners Association, says there is no credible scientific evidence that high-fructose corn syrup is a bigger cause of obesity or chronic disease than any of the other sugars used in processed foods.

Quote
NR, I'm just curious, are you under the impression that all vegetarians and vegans are fat with diabetes and heart problems? It seems you say meat is the best thing to eat and everything else is bad for you.

Not at all. Meat is the best diet for humans, but a vegetarian or vegan diet can work.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on June 28, 2010, 09:23:29 PM
So what about someone who has never eaten meat in their entire lives, eats plenty of wheats and fruits and is still perfectly healthy? Not overweight, no high blood pressure, no diabetes?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on June 28, 2010, 09:25:37 PM
More power to em.

I don't know of any known civilizations who purposefully avoided meat and embraced grains and vegetation who have been held up as shining examples of success. I know that it can work as I said, but that meat naturally provides the vitamins and nutrition that all parts of the human body need with little modification whereas you need to take extra steps when fashioning a vegetarian or vegan diet to meet your dietary requirements.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on June 28, 2010, 09:30:18 PM
But are you claiming that a majority of vegetarians/vegans are obese, unhealthy or have heart problems and diabetes? Or that most meat eaters are very healthy? If not, then I'm not sure how your case holds up.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on June 28, 2010, 09:31:34 PM
No, I am claiming that meats and animal fat are healthy and carbohydrates are not.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on June 28, 2010, 09:32:26 PM
No, I am claiming that meat is healthy and carbohydrates are not.

But if something is healthy, wouldn't the majority of people who avoid it be unhealthy while the majority of the people who indulge in it be healthier?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on June 28, 2010, 09:34:25 PM
We know that groups who indulge in meat, avoid sugars, and eat grains in small amounts are extremely healthy with rare incidence of cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on June 28, 2010, 09:37:58 PM
But is that WHY they're healthy? Cause someone people who indulge in meat more than other things are very unhealthy. And some people who avoid meats are very healthy. Is it just a correlation you're latching on to? Or is your last name atkins?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on June 28, 2010, 09:45:11 PM
What group/groups are you pointing to that back up these statements?

In observed tribal groups animal fat consumption was high, sugar consumption was low, grain consumption was low and intense exercise was sporadic. In dietary studies high fat low carbohydrate diets have shown to increase health markers and promote weight loss.

Meanwhile in a nation that promotes low consumption of meat and high consumptions of grains and sugar the entire nation is fat and diabetic.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on June 28, 2010, 09:48:09 PM
Tribal groups who probably didn't sit around on the computer all day.

Like I said, are you just latching onto a correlation? I mean, AIDS became more rampant around the same time Metallica started. One would be foolish to think it was causation.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on June 28, 2010, 09:51:53 PM
And like I said, in any environment where diets have been observed or studied over long periods of time animal fat consumption has proven to be healthier than carbohydrate consumption and also prevent the development of many diseases we commonly associate with obesity and fat.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on June 28, 2010, 10:58:29 PM

I don't know of any known civilizations who purposefully avoided meat and embraced grains and vegetation who have been held up as shining examples of success.

India?

Also, from the same webct article you linked to:

Quote
New research shows big differences in how the sugars fructose and glucose are metabolized by the body
...
Both groups gained weight during the 10-week study, but the fructose group gained more of the dangerous belly fat that has been linked to a higher risk for heart attack and stroke
...
Both the groups gained weight during the trial, but imaging studies revealed that most of the added fat in the fructose group occurred in the belly, while most of the fat gained by the glucose group was subcutaneous (under the skin).

Belly fat, but not subcutaneous fat, has been linked to an increased risk for heart disease and diabetes.

The fructose group had higher total cholesterol and LDL "bad" cholesterol, plus greater insulin resistance, which are consistent with metabolic syndrome, while the glucose group did not.

Did you just ignore that part? Like I said, fructose is correlated with more insulin resistance, more bad cholesterol, and general worse health effects than glucose.

It's rather hilarious to be told I'm confusing two things, then be linked an article which says the exact same thing I said...

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on June 28, 2010, 11:23:23 PM
Quote
India?

https://hindu.com/2007/10/12/stories/2007101260940600.htm

Quote
It's rather hilarious to be told I'm confusing two things, then be linked an article which says the exact same thing I said...

Those little tidbits are irrelevant. The study did not conclusively show that hfcs is any worse for you than glucose. All it did was show that glucose creates more subcutaneous fat and less visceral which is still bad for you, and suggest that hfcs does more than glucose without providing the background data to know whether or not it was because of the fructose. Even if it were true, the higher levels that hfcs may elevate blood sugar and encourage insulin resistance would only be a small amount higher than that of glucose. So either way, if you eat too much sugar you will gain weight and eventually develop diabetes and its associated diseases. It is not solely the fructose or hfcs that causes the problems associated with the food pyramid.

Quote
Tschop says whether the sweetener is high-fructose corn syrup or something else, it is clear that Americans are eating too much sugar.

Sugar comes from carbohydrates and we eat too many.

https://www.cnn.com/2010/HEALTH/03/25/corn.syrup.sugar/index.html

Quote
"The debate about which one is better for you is a false debate, because neither of them is good for you," says Elizabeth Abbott, author of the forthcoming "Sugar: A Bittersweet History."
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on June 29, 2010, 12:03:52 AM
Quote
India?

https://hindu.com/2007/10/12/stories/2007101260940600.htm

What exactly is that supposed to show? India and it's culture go back for millenia, and have had a similar diet for a lot of that time period - why, then, is this a new rising epidemic? It couldn't possibly be because of lifestyle? After all, India is modernizing, it's workforce is becoming increasingly urban and sedentary.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Obesity_in_India

Quote
India is following a trend of other developing countries that are steadily becoming more obese. Unhealthy, processed food has become much more accessible following India's continued integration in global food markets

So yes, carbohydrate are the problem, but the ones you find in processed foods.

Furthermore, India and America have similiar obesity rates, yet most Indian's never eat meat. If what you are saying is true, shouldn't we see much more obese Indians than American's? After all, according to you, we eat more meat, therefore we eat healthier. American's eat more meat than anyone else in the world.

Quote
It's rather hilarious to be told I'm confusing two things, then be linked an article which says the exact same thing I said...

Quote
Those little tidbits are irrelevant. The study did not conclusively show that hfcs is any worse for you than glucose. All it did was show that glucose creates more subcutaneous fat and less visceral which is still bad for you, and suggest that hfcs does more than glucose without providing the background data to know whether or not it was because of the fructose. Even if it were true, the higher levels that hfcs may elevate blood sugar and encourage insulin resistance would only be a small amount higher than that of glucose. So either way, if you eat too much sugar you will gain weight and eventually develop diabetes and its associated diseases. It is not solely the fructose or hfcs that causes the problems associated with the food pyramid.

I said fructose causes increased insulin resistance. It does. I said fructose causes increased bad cholesterol. It does. I said different carbohydrates affect the body differently. They do. No where did I ever say that it's solely the fructose. I said as compared to glucose. Importantly, the increased presence of HFCS in every sort of processed food also means an increase in the presence of glucose. My argument is against processed sugars / added sweeteners.

Besides, are you going to imply that Americans actually follow the food pyramids guidelines? One huge fault of your entire argument so far is that American's don't really eat according to the food pyramid / guidelines by the FDA. American's don't generally get their carbohydrates from fruits, vegetables and grains, they get them from manufactured and processed sugars which are added to foods, or drink it up in soda. I'm also willing to bet they go beyond the daily recommended value.

Another thing, how is that some diabetics manage their diabetes by going on vegetarian diets? Also:

Quote from: https://www.vegetarian-nutrition.info/updates/vegetarian_diets_health_benefits.php
Higher consumption of nuts (29) and whole grains (30) has been associated with lower rates of diabetes. In a large prospective study, fruit and vegetable intake was found to be inversely associated with the incidence of diabetes, particularly among women (31). Men and women who reported seldom or never eating fruit or green leafy vegetables had higher mean HbA1C levels than those who had more frequent consumption (32). An increased consumption of fruit and vegetables appears to contribute to the prevention of diabetes.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: ogrejedi on June 29, 2010, 12:23:17 AM
Quote
Havel acknowledges that the study does little to answer the question of whether the body processes high-fructose corn syrup differently from table sugar or other sweeteners.

Cardiologist James Rippe, MD, who is a consultant for the Corn Refiners Association, says there is no credible scientific evidence that high-fructose corn syrup is a bigger cause of obesity or chronic disease than any of the other sugars used in processed foods.

Well, I'm sold. If we can't trust doctors on the corn industry's payroll to give us an unbiased opinion of corn, whom can we trust?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on June 29, 2010, 12:56:47 AM
Quote
So yes, carbohydrate are the problem, but the ones you find in processed foods.

https://www.healthy-eating-politics.com/american-diabetes-association.html

Quote
On their website, the American Diabetes Association directs diabetics to eat between 45-60 grams of carbohydrates at each meal. Assuming a person eats three meals a day, this advice works out to telling diabetics to eat a minimum of 135 grams to a maximum of 180 grams of carbohydrates per day. Now, 180 grams of carbohydrates works out to 720 calories (1 gram of carb=4 calories). In a daily diet of 2000 calories, eating the minimum recommended carbs would set the daily percentage of carbs at 27% (540/2000) and the maximum carbs would be 36% (720/2000).

Quote
On their website, the American Diabetes Association nutritionist recommends the following guidelines for diabetics in designing a meal. She says to imagine a dinner plate, and keep carbs (brown rice, whole wheat pasta and 100% whole wheat bread) to no more than 1/4 of the plate at any meal. The non-starchy vegetables should fill 1/2 the plate. For the last quarter of the plate, add about 3 ounces of lean meat, chicken, or fish. She also says that a piece of fresh fruit or 1/2 cup of fruit salad for dessert, or even a "light" yogurt can be added for dessert. She recommends cooking with vegetable oils and cutting back on saturated fat.

If we analyze a typical meal using these guidelines, this is what we find:

Half of a 10.5 inch dinner plate works out to 35 square inches of space to fill with a non starchy vegetable. One can easily fit 2 cups of cooked yellow squash there – that’s about 18 grams of carb.
In one quarter of the plate, there is about 15 square inches to fill. That could hold a cup of brown rice easily. That’s about 45 carbs.
The last quarter plate would hold 3 oz of lean meat. That’s about 18 grams of protein.
For dessert, a piece of fresh fruit – if we went with a medium orange, that’s another 15 grams of carb.
Finally, the ADA says you can cook your veggies and protein in vegetable oil. (Forget for the moment that vegetable oils are polyunsaturated, meaning the chemical structure is volatile and easily oxidizes in the presence of heat. This introduces cancer causing free radicals into your food.) Sautéing 2 cups of squash would take about 1 T of canola oil. That’s about 14 grams of fat, and 125 calories.

What is so difficult to understand about breaks down into sugar? Just because you get the sugar from a complex nutritionally dense food does not negate the amount of sugar consumed. All carbohydrates by definition eventually break down into sugar.

Quote
Furthermore, India and America have similiar obesity rates, yet most Indian's never eat meat. If what you are saying is true, shouldn't we see much more obese Indians than American's? After all, according to you, we eat more meat, therefore we eat healthier. American's eat more meat than anyone else in the world.

As you know there are other markers to health than just weight. Eating no meat/less meat does not correspond with an increase in weight and a drop in overall health or well being. The point is, it has been proven that cultures who eat predominantly animal fat and few grains are healthier and have less incidence of disease than cultures that eat many grains and sugars and little/no meat. On a further note, eating meat does not mean you will be healthy in spite of any other factors. If you eat a lot of meat and a lot of sugar like an average american does at say Mcdonalds in a quarter pounder meal, how healthy do you think the population will be? You also confuse two separate arguments. A healthy diet of grains and meat can coexist as you point out India did in the past and as documentaries like fathead and studies like those done by Dr. Uffe Ravnskov prove. The key is portions.

The problem however is that an Indian diet does not consist solely of grains and leaves and does not adhere to a common vegetarian or vegan diet. Take a look at the indian diet on that page if you will. It contains a lot of vegetables, a lot of protein from various sources such as meat and legumes, and some grains. Not predominantly grains as you first thought.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_cuisine#Eating_Habits
https://www.foodbycountry.com/Germany-to-Japan/India.html

Quote
Besides, are you going to imply that Americans actually follow the food pyramids guidelines? One huge fault of your entire argument so far is that American's don't really eat according to the food pyramid / guidelines by the FDA. American's don't generally get their carbohydrates from fruits, vegetables and grains, they get them from manufactured and processed sugars which are added to foods, or drink it up in soda. I'm also willing to bet they go beyond the daily recommended value.

Read that article above. Even at base recommendation from the FDA or ADA, Americans will consume too many carbohydrates even from all natural sources such as fruits and vegetables.

Quote
Well, I'm sold. If we can't trust doctors on the corn industry's payroll to give us an unbiased opinion of corn, whom can we trust?

I understand the criticism, but its bullshit. Is what the man saying wrong? Is a study funded by someone you agree with any more reliable? Is the work of anyone paid to do a specific job any less reliable?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: William Wallace on June 29, 2010, 11:04:09 AM
Quote
Havel acknowledges that the study does little to answer the question of whether the body processes high-fructose corn syrup differently from table sugar or other sweeteners.

Cardiologist James Rippe, MD, who is a consultant for the Corn Refiners Association, says there is no credible scientific evidence that high-fructose corn syrup is a bigger cause of obesity or chronic disease than any of the other sugars used in processed foods.

Well, I'm sold. If we can't trust doctors on the corn industry's payroll to give us an unbiased opinion of corn, whom can we trust?
It's not just the corn refiner's consultant who knows the HFCS is no worse than sugar. Even the food cops know there's no difference between them. Barry Popkin (https://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2008-12-08-fructose-corn-syrup_N.htm), who started the craze over HFCS, retracted the claims he made about it in 2004. Even CSPI, a vegetarian group and no friend to the food industry, says the hype over HFCS is false.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on June 29, 2010, 12:37:30 PM
It's simple: if it wasn't available in food markets before the turn of the previous century, it's probably not good for you.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on June 29, 2010, 11:22:21 PM
Quote
So yes, carbohydrate are the problem, but the ones you find in processed foods.

https://www.healthy-eating-politics.com/american-diabetes-association.html

Quote
On their website, the American Diabetes Association directs diabetics to eat between 45-60 grams of carbohydrates at each meal. Assuming a person eats three meals a day, this advice works out to telling diabetics to eat a minimum of 135 grams to a maximum of 180 grams of carbohydrates per day. Now, 180 grams of carbohydrates works out to 720 calories (1 gram of carb=4 calories). In a daily diet of 2000 calories, eating the minimum recommended carbs would set the daily percentage of carbs at 27% (540/2000) and the maximum carbs would be 36% (720/2000).

Quote
On their website, the American Diabetes Association nutritionist recommends the following guidelines for diabetics in designing a meal. She says to imagine a dinner plate, and keep carbs (brown rice, whole wheat pasta and 100% whole wheat bread) to no more than 1/4 of the plate at any meal. The non-starchy vegetables should fill 1/2 the plate. For the last quarter of the plate, add about 3 ounces of lean meat, chicken, or fish. She also says that a piece of fresh fruit or 1/2 cup of fruit salad for dessert, or even a "light" yogurt can be added for dessert. She recommends cooking with vegetable oils and cutting back on saturated fat.

If we analyze a typical meal using these guidelines, this is what we find:

Half of a 10.5 inch dinner plate works out to 35 square inches of space to fill with a non starchy vegetable. One can easily fit 2 cups of cooked yellow squash there – that’s about 18 grams of carb.
In one quarter of the plate, there is about 15 square inches to fill. That could hold a cup of brown rice easily. That’s about 45 carbs.
The last quarter plate would hold 3 oz of lean meat. That’s about 18 grams of protein.
For dessert, a piece of fresh fruit – if we went with a medium orange, that’s another 15 grams of carb.
Finally, the ADA says you can cook your veggies and protein in vegetable oil. (Forget for the moment that vegetable oils are polyunsaturated, meaning the chemical structure is volatile and easily oxidizes in the presence of heat. This introduces cancer causing free radicals into your food.) Sautéing 2 cups of squash would take about 1 T of canola oil. That’s about 14 grams of fat, and 125 calories.

What is so difficult to understand about breaks down into sugar? Just because you get the sugar from a complex nutritionally dense food does not negate the amount of sugar consumed. All carbohydrates by definition eventually break down into sugar.

It does matter how you get the food. Here's why: if you get the carbohydrates from natural foods, i.e. grains, there is going to be a natural limit to the abundance of the carbohydrates. This isn't true for processed foods. Sugar is found in shit it just should not be found in, and if you don't believe me, just go to the grocery store and look. You'll find HFCS and sugar in a variety of items which would be surprising to most people.

*edit*

That is, you can only eat so much pasta before you're full.

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Furthermore, India and America have similiar obesity rates, yet most Indian's never eat meat. If what you are saying is true, shouldn't we see much more obese Indians than American's? After all, according to you, we eat more meat, therefore we eat healthier. American's eat more meat than anyone else in the world.

As you know there are other markers to health than just weight. Eating no meat/less meat does not correspond with an increase in weight and a drop in overall health or well being. The point is, it has been proven that cultures who eat predominantly animal fat and few grains are healthier and have less incidence of disease than cultures that eat many grains and sugars and little/no meat. On a further note, eating meat does not mean you will be healthy in spite of any other factors. If you eat a lot of meat and a lot of sugar like an average american does at say Mcdonalds in a quarter pounder meal, how healthy do you think the population will be? You also confuse two separate arguments. A healthy diet of grains and meat can coexist as you point out India did in the past and as documentaries like fathead and studies like those done by Dr. Uffe Ravnskov prove. The key is portions.

The problem however is that an Indian diet does not consist solely of grains and leaves and does not adhere to a common vegetarian or vegan diet. Take a look at the indian diet on that page if you will. It contains a lot of vegetables, a lot of protein from various sources such as meat and legumes, and some grains. Not predominantly grains as you first thought.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_cuisine#Eating_Habits
https://www.foodbycountry.com/Germany-to-Japan/India.html
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I'm sorry if I implied that they eat solely grains, I'm not sure I did, but so they still eat a lot of carbohydrates. Many legumes still have carbohydrates, and legumes are eaten with grains to be nutritionally valid. Vegetables themselves also contain a lot of carbohydrates.

By the way, nice job of pointing out the importance of other factors when it comes to health affects whilst ignoring the consequences. Carbohydrates are broken down into sugar for use as energy by the body, which get's stored as fat if that energy is not used. If Americans were more active, the consumption of carbohydrates would be less negative as their presence in the body woudln't be so long-lasting.

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Besides, are you going to imply that Americans actually follow the food pyramids guidelines? One huge fault of your entire argument so far is that American's don't really eat according to the food pyramid / guidelines by the FDA. American's don't generally get their carbohydrates from fruits, vegetables and grains, they get them from manufactured and processed sugars which are added to foods, or drink it up in soda. I'm also willing to bet they go beyond the daily recommended value.

Read that article above. Even at base recommendation from the FDA or ADA, Americans will consume too many carbohydrates even from all natural sources such as fruits and vegetables.

Perhaps they would consume too many carbohydrates, but would we b e seeing the obesity and diabetic epidemic we are seeing?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MetalMike06 on July 01, 2010, 09:34:53 PM
A pretty interesting article on Reagan's foreign policy and the myths surrounding it today:

https://www.foreignpolicy.com/articles/2010/06/07/think_again_ronald_reagan?page=full

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Sure, Reagan spent boatloads -- some $2.8 trillion all told -- on the military. And yes, he funneled money and guns to anti-communist rebels like the Nicaraguan Contras and Afghan mujahideen, while lecturing Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev to tear down that wall. But on the ultimate test of hawkdom -- the willingness to send U.S. troops into harm's way -- Reagan was no bird of prey. He launched exactly one land war, against Grenada, whose army totaled 600 men. It lasted two days. And his only air war -- the 1986 bombing of Libya -- was even briefer. Compare that with George H.W. Bush, who launched two midsized ground operations, in Panama (1989) and Somalia (1992), and one large war in the Persian Gulf (1991). Or with Bill Clinton, who launched three air campaigns -- in Bosnia (1995), Iraq (1998), and Kosovo (1999) -- each of which dwarfed Reagan's Libya bombing in duration and intensity. Do I even need to mention George W. Bush?
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As early as 1982, after Reagan skirmished with Israel, declined to send U.S. troops to Central America, and refused to cut off Western loans to communist Poland, Commentary's Norman Podhoretz declared that neoconservatives were "sinking into a state of near political despair." New York Times columnist William Safire announced that "if Ronald Reagan fails to awake to the hard-liners' anger at his betrayal, he will discover that he has lost his bedrock constituency." By 1984, after Reagan withdrew troops from their peacekeeping mission in Lebanon, Podhoretz moaned that "in the use of military power, Mr. Reagan was much more restrained" than his right-wing supporters had hoped.

But that was nothing compared with the howls of outrage that accompanied Reagan's dovish turn toward the Soviet Union. In 1986, when Reagan would not cancel his second summit with Gorbachev over Moscow's imprisonment of an American journalist, Podhoretz accused him of having "shamed himself and the country" in his "craven eagerness" to give away the nuclear store. Washington Post columnist George Will said the administration had crumpled "like a punctured balloon." When Reagan signed the INF Treaty, most Republicans vying to succeed him came out in opposition. Grassroots conservative leaders established the Anti-Appeasement Alliance to oppose ratification and ran newspaper advertisements comparing Gorbachev to Hitler and Reagan to Neville Chamberlain. Reagan, wailed Will, is "elevating wishful thinking to the status of political philosophy."
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on July 03, 2010, 06:16:50 AM
Apologies for taking so long to respond, took a bit of a mini break from p/r for a couple of days.

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It does matter how you get the food. Here's why: if you get the carbohydrates from natural foods, i.e. grains, there is going to be a natural limit to the abundance of the carbohydrates. This isn't true for processed foods. Sugar is found in shit it just should not be found in, and if you don't believe me, just go to the grocery store and look. You'll find HFCS and sugar in a variety of items which would be surprising to most people.

I think you very seriously underestimate the amount of carbohydrates in grains and other unprocessed sources of carbohydrates and also the impact they have on the body. To elaborate on that as an example if you were to follow the food pyramids example of a healthy diet and still eat only unprocessed whole grains you would still have problems with blood glucose spikes and all ailments associated with it. In clinical studies a single half cup of all natural pasta has been shown to produce blood glucose levels upwards of 200 mg/dl in non diabetics which is incredibly unhealthy for any person.

Again regardless of nutritional value all carbohydrates are broken down into simple sugar before being absorbed by the bloodstream. High blood sugar is toxic to humans so it only makes sense to avoid foods that spike your blood sugar and seek your nutritional needs from other foods which happens to be the exact opposite of what the FDA and ADA recommend.

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I'm sorry if I implied that they eat solely grains, I'm not sure I did, but so they still eat a lot of carbohydrates. Many legumes still have carbohydrates, and legumes are eaten with grains to be nutritionally valid. Vegetables themselves also contain a lot of carbohydrates.

The point I am making is that the Indian people as a culture never sat down and feasted on grains for all of their nutrition. As you can see from numerous sources Breakfast lunch and dinner consisted of a varying number of legumes, meat, and grains. Not predominantly one or the other and definitely not a lot of either.  As an example I tried my best to reconstruct how many carbohydrates would be included in the three meals and snacks and was very lenient and I came up with a estimate of 175 carbohydrates. If my guesstimate is correct then from what I know, an average Indian way back when would fit perfectly into the weight maintenance category of a healthy diet.

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By the way, nice job of pointing out the importance of other factors when it comes to health affects whilst ignoring the consequences. Carbohydrates are broken down into sugar for use as energy by the body, which get's stored as fat if that energy is not used. If Americans were more active, the consumption of carbohydrates would be less negative as their presence in the body woudln't be so long-lasting.

No that is a gross oversimplification of how your body uses glycogen and glucose as a source of fuel. It has been proven that the levels of glycogen and glucose obtained from a recommended American diet are completely out of proportion to how quickly your body needs them as a fuel source. So technically what you are saying is true but because of the rate at which you absorb glucose from food into your bloodstream you could never exercise enough to use all of the glucose, and by the time you may need it, insulin would have converted that it into fat and you would actually be gaining weight while exercising (which happened to me at one point during my weight loss). Because you can only store and use a small portion of glucose for cell and muscle fuel, what little you should be getting from a limited carbohydrate diet will last you until you sleep and eat again. All you do by excessively exercising and also eating a lot of carbs is drain your blood glucose reserves faster, store more fat, and your body then signals your brain that you should eat again earlier than you normally would and the cycle repeats. This wouldn't be a problem except for the fact that a recommended diet for a healthy adult is in the 300 carb/day area which goes back to the original point which is way too much regardless of who you are or how active you are.

Now on a low carbohydrate diet you would be eating enough complex carbs from fruits, legumes, or grains that you provide just enough glucose to provide fuel for those cells (100-200 complex carbs max/day) or you would then enter ketosis (>50carbs/day) and your body would burn stored fat for energy at an accelerated rate and everything would be working as it should.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on July 03, 2010, 03:48:10 PM
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It does matter how you get the food. Here's why: if you get the carbohydrates from natural foods, i.e. grains, there is going to be a natural limit to the abundance of the carbohydrates. This isn't true for processed foods. Sugar is found in shit it just should not be found in, and if you don't believe me, just go to the grocery store and look. You'll find HFCS and sugar in a variety of items which would be surprising to most people.

I think you very seriously underestimate the amount of carbohydrates in grains and other unprocessed sources of carbohydrates and also the impact they have on the body. To elaborate on that as an example if you were to follow the food pyramids example of a healthy diet and still eat only unprocessed whole grains you would still have problems with blood glucose spikes and all ailments associated with it. In clinical studies a single half cup of all natural pasta has been shown to produce blood glucose levels upwards of 200 mg/dl in non diabetics which is incredibly unhealthy for any person.

No, I think you just seriously underestimate the amount of carbohydrates in processed foods. In a 500g bag of spaghetti noodles, there are 44g of carbohydrates. In a 12 oz can of Dr. Pepper, there are 40g of sugar. Now, I'm willing to bet most people couldn't come close to finishing this bag of pasta in one sitting. I myself eat quite a bit of spaghetti at a time, and I can't even consume half the bag. Yet, the 12oz of soda are no problem for me, or any other American. Most American's drink at least one of those cans a day, many drink a lot more. Obese people seem to drink even more!

And I'd like to see the evidence that eating half a cup of natural pasta is "incredibly unhealthy" for you. That's true for some people, especially people who can't really digest gluten, but it's definitely not true for everybody. Remember your Fathead, it's about evolution.

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I'm sorry if I implied that they eat solely grains, I'm not sure I did, but so they still eat a lot of carbohydrates. Many legumes still have carbohydrates, and legumes are eaten with grains to be nutritionally valid. Vegetables themselves also contain a lot of carbohydrates.

The point I am making is that the Indian people as a culture never sat down and feasted on grains for all of their nutrition. As you can see from numerous sources Breakfast lunch and dinner consisted of a varying number of legumes, meat, and grains. Not predominantly one or the other and definitely not a lot of either.  As an example I tried my best to reconstruct how many carbohydrates would be included in the three meals and snacks and was very lenient and I came up with a estimate of 175 carbohydrates. If my guesstimate is correct then from what I know, an average Indian way back when would fit perfectly into the weight maintenance category of a healthy diet.

So, what changed between "way back when" and now? Oh right, processed foods, and a more sedentary culture! What didn't go through a major change were the natural sources of carbohydrates they eat / ate.

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By the way, nice job of pointing out the importance of other factors when it comes to health affects whilst ignoring the consequences. Carbohydrates are broken down into sugar for use as energy by the body, which get's stored as fat if that energy is not used. If Americans were more active, the consumption of carbohydrates would be less negative as their presence in the body woudln't be so long-lasting.

No that is a gross oversimplification of how your body uses glycogen and glucose as a source of fuel. It has been proven that the levels of glycogen and glucose obtained from a recommended American diet are completely out of proportion to how quickly your body needs them as a fuel source. So technically what you are saying is true but because of the rate at which you absorb glucose from food into your bloodstream you could never exercise enough to use all of the glucose, and by the time you may need it, insulin would have converted that it into fat and you would actually be gaining weight while exercising (which happened to me at one point during my weight loss). Because you can only store and use a small portion of glucose for cell and muscle fuel, what little you should be getting from a limited carbohydrate diet will last you until you sleep and eat again. All you do by excessively exercising and also eating a lot of carbs is drain your blood glucose reserves faster, store more fat, and your body then signals your brain that you should eat again earlier than you normally would and the cycle repeats. This wouldn't be a problem except for the fact that a recommended diet for a healthy adult is in the 300 carb/day area which goes back to the original point which is way too much regardless of who you are or how active you are.

Sorry for the gross oversimplification, but are you really going to tell me that American's extremely lazly lifestyle doesn't affect how fat we are? I'm not even talking about exercise necessarily, but just a bout anything which would use energy. Think about Wall-E. Forget about draining your blood glucose levels, but about reducing them. From there, storing fat is not bad / unhealthy in and of itself.

And it's like you don't follow my argument, and insist upon the liberal straw man. My complaint about the poster is that it throws the baby out with the bath water. Why does that poster have pictures of bread, and other perfectly fine dietary items, when there's better, more logical, targets? The problem is not with all carbohydrates, as the poster implies, and ignores the necessary function of carbohydrates. If you took the question the poster asked seriously, "who gives carbohydrates to Diabetics?" and figured diabetics should not eat any carbohydrates, you're pretty much killing the person.



Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on July 03, 2010, 06:37:12 PM
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In a 500g bag of spaghetti noodles, there are 44g of carbohydrates.

500 grams is just over one pound of spaghetti. On every bag of all natural whole grain spaghetti I just looked up, 1/8 of one pound is one serving and one serving is between 40-50 carbohydrates. I would wager that your average person can consume 2 cups of spaghetti with sauce before being full.  Even at that which seems completely reasonable without any other additions, you are consuming just over 100 carbohydrates if you are being reasonable. What we know is that the average man does not eat 2/8 serving of a bag of pasta and will likely eat until they become uncomfortably full and bloated.

https://www.barillaus.com/Pages/Product-Landing.aspx?brandID=3

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And I'd like to see the evidence that eating half a cup of natural pasta is "incredibly unhealthy" for you. That's true for some people, especially people who can't really digest gluten, but it's definitely not true for everybody. Remember your Fathead, it's about evolution.

Any type of spaghetti (or any food with a heaping number of carbohydrates complex or not) will produce a high blood sugar in anyone. High blood sugar puts unnecessary strain on your cardiovascular system and is responsible for insulin resistance, diabetes and as a side effect, obesity. So while you could likely skirt along if you would actually only eat a very small portion of spaghetti without any type of sauce or seasoning, it would still create a blood sugar spike and if repeated you would still suffer from the exact same problem as someone who eats an equal amount of carbohydrates from simple naturally sugar filled sources.

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So, what changed between "way back when" and now? Oh right, processed foods, and a more sedentary culture! What didn't go through a major change were the natural sources of carbohydrates they eat / ate.

No, what has consistently been observed is an increase in living standards and available food and as such every culture eating more of what they already ate in the past. It is even more self evident now that we have a government and nutritional market centered around eating grains and carbohydrates when in the past we ate only a small or medium amount of them.

You also again ignore that all evidence suggests that processed sweeteners affect the body in the same way that sugar from complex carbohydrate sources does.

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Sorry for the gross oversimplification, but are you really going to tell me that American's extremely lazly lifestyle doesn't affect how fat we are? I'm not even talking about exercise necessarily, but just a bout anything which would use energy. Think about Wall-E. Forget about draining your blood glucose levels, but about reducing them. From there, storing fat is not bad / unhealthy in and of itself.

Absolutely. Gary Taubes elaborates on the concept of activity impulse further in his book Good Calories, Bad Calories. Is a person who exercises fervently skinny because they burn calories exercising, or are they naturally genetically lucky to have a body that prefers to fuel their muscles with whatever calories they eat and not store them as fat? After going on a weight loss crusade I was dreadfully discouraged when I was running 20-40 miles a week and not losing weight any faster than if I had sat on my computer all day on a reduced sugar diet as I am now. The article below is amazingly informative on the subject, I suggest you read it.

https://nymag.com/news/sports/38001/

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And it's like you don't follow my argument, and insist upon the liberal straw man. My complaint about the poster is that it throws the baby out with the bath water. Why does that poster have pictures of bread, and other perfectly fine dietary items, when there's better, more logical, targets? The problem is not with all carbohydrates, as the poster implies, and ignores the necessary function of carbohydrates. If you took the question the poster asked seriously, "who gives carbohydrates to Diabetics?" and figured diabetics should not eat any carbohydrates, you're pretty much killing the person.

No the problem is with all carbohydrates. But more than just carbohydrates it is specifically about quantity consumed. Diabetics and people in its early stages in studies have been able to stop medication and insulin injections by going on a zero/low carb diet and keep their blood sugar as stable as possible all the time. Meanwhile we have an official government organization encouraging people who cannot bring their blood sugar down to eat sugar in an effort to be normal, healthy, and happy when it is directly detrimental to their body's ability to function normally. If you eat a low carb diet and stick with it for as long as you live you will never suffer from Diabetes and a host of other ailments associated with it.

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In a 2004 study published in Diabetes journal, participants were given either the American Diabetes Association recommended moderately high carb diet with a carbohydrate:protein:fat ratio of 55:15:30, or a low carb diet with a carbohydrate:protein:fat ratio of 20:30:50. The mean 24-hour serum blood sugar at the end of the ADA high carb diet was 198 mg/dl. The mean 24-hour serum blood sugar at the end of the low carb diet was 126 mg/dl. The low carb diet resulted in a drop of 36% in mean serum blood sugar as compared to the higher carb diet over the course of the study. Diabetes 53:2375-2382, 2004
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on July 03, 2010, 08:31:59 PM
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No the problem is with all carbohydrates. But more than just carbohydrates it is specifically about quantity consumed.

It's much easier to eat a lot of carbohydrates when those carbohydrates are refined and concentrated. You don't feel as full, if nothing else. And that does make a huge difference, and the fact that you have to go to the clearly wrong position that eating half a cup of pasta is incredibly unhealthy for you should be enough of an indication. Basically, you need to explain to me how I eat a lot of pasta and breads, yet am a slightly-underweight, non-diabetic person. If what you say is absolutely true, I should be fat, unenergetic and suffer from diabetes because I constantly eat food which is "incredibly unhealthy" for me.

And while I eat a lot of carbohydrates from natural sources, I take some vigilance to reduce the intake of how much manufactured sugar I eat.

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You also again ignore that all evidence suggests that processed sweeteners affect the body in the same way that sugar from complex carbohydrate sources does.

But you see, that isn't true. I'm not ignoring it, because there's enough evidence to show that there is a difference. Complex carbohydrates take longer to digest, and thus affect the glucose level in the blood differently. Yes, all the carbohydrates get transformed into blood sugar, but over what period of time? Notice that this allows for exercise, while not completely getting rid of your blood sugar level, and creating the pattern you described. As you deplete your blood sugar levels, it's being replenished by further digestion of the complex carbohydrates. Manufactured sugar, on the other hand, spikes the system and starts the sort of cycle that you described.

And why the fuck do you think I'm arguing that carbohydrates don't cause higher blood sugar levels? I'm arguing against this misconception about natural carbohydrates that you put forward. They do not affect the body in the same way, all sugars are not the same! This affects the human body differently, if in subtle of minor ways. Taking everything into account, that is, the American lifestyle, combined with the source of many American's carbohydrates (manufactured), is much more of an important driving factor in the rise of diabetes and obesity in the country than the amount of carbohydrates that the federal government suggests we eat, which probably isn't very close to how American's actually eat.

*edit*

By the way, I will blame the government for how our food subsidies are set up. We grow way too much corn, which gets turned into way too much HFCS. We need to subsidize more vegetable, lettuce and fruit growing.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on July 03, 2010, 10:37:01 PM
Why or how exactly am I wrong? Pasta and other carbohydrate rich food raise blood sugar regardless of their nutritional content. High blood sugar is toxic to your cardiovascular system and will lead to diabetes and plenty of other ailments commonly associated with it. Studies have shown that otherwise healthy adult diabietics can completely eliminate their need for insulin injections and other medications when following a low carbohydrate diet. We know from history and from numerous studies that an extended low carbohydrate diet has no negative health effects because your body can synthesize all the glucose it needs from dietary proteins.

I would go ahead and wager a guess that you have been skinny all of your life and not had problems with obesity. If its true then it would be for the same reason most naturally skinny people are skinny, genetics. However dont try and use just your weight as a marker for health. Just because you are skinny does not mean you don't have diabetes or high cholesterol. We are now seeing a huge spike in the number of skinny diabetic people. Would you care to guess why? Its because high blood sugar, although toxic, wont always make you fat and its why I consider obesity a side effect. It is also why it is so easy to understand why Gary Taubes and other researchers like him observations about high blood sugar and exercise are correct.

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It's much easier to eat a lot of carbohydrates when those carbohydrates are refined and concentrated. You don't feel as full, if nothing else. And that does make a huge difference

No, in fact that has nothing to do with it. Its true if you are eating something like ice cream but if we are talking about all natural grains and other sources of carbohydrate how full you are depends on things like the size of your stomach, dietary fiber, protein content, how much of the food or drink, liquid or solid etc.

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because there's enough evidence to show that there is a difference.

No, there may be a subtle difference somewhere but there has never been any conclusive study that can prove the link between specifically HFCS or other processed sugars and a sharper increase in disease or other health problems when compared to all natural sugar.

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Complex carbohydrates take longer to digest, and thus affect the glucose level in the blood differently. Yes, all the carbohydrates get transformed into blood sugar, but over what period of time?

I don't know where you are getting this information. Studies I read and observations I have performed personally with a blood glucose meter show the same spike in blood sugar whether you eat a cup of pasta or a candy bar an hour after consumption. There is no difference. You will obviously get more or less of what you need because of the varying nutritional content of the food, but it will always be accompanied by a blood sugar spike because of the carbohydrates followed by a normalization of blood sugar by insulin as it converts the sugar into fat.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on July 03, 2010, 10:48:54 PM
I would go ahead and wager a guess that you have been skinny all of your life and not had problems with obesity. If its true then it would be for the same reason most naturally skinny people are skinny, genetics. However dont try and use just your weight as a marker for health. Just because you are skinny does not mean you don't have diabetes or high cholesterol. We are now seeing a huge spike in the number of skinny diabetic people. Would you care to guess why? Its because high blood sugar, although toxic, wont always make you fat and its why I consider obesity a side effect. It is also why it is so easy to understand why Gary Taubes and other researchers like him observations about high blood sugar and exercise are correct.

You seem to be forgetting: My argument is that your diet your be based upon genetics, not any standard or norm given out by anyone. My point about my health isn't meant to be a marker for anyone, so once again: please follow my argument and debate me, not some straw man your keep pulling up for this.

And notice, I said skinny and non-diabetic.

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It's much easier to eat a lot of carbohydrates when those carbohydrates are refined and concentrated. You don't feel as full, if nothing else. And that does make a huge difference

No, in fact that has nothing to do with it. Its true if you are eating something like ice cream but if we are talking about all natural grains and other sources of carbohydrate how full you are depends on things like the size of your stomach, dietary fiber, protein content, how much of the food or drink, liquid or solid etc.

Hey guess what? Natural carbohydrates have a lot of dietary fiber, which makes you feel fuller quicker. It's the refined, processed sugar which has no nutritional value, which you are thinking of. Also, drinks are where a lot of people get sugar from - which you can drink more of.

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Complex carbohydrates take longer to digest, and thus affect the glucose level in the blood differently. Yes, all the carbohydrates get transformed into blood sugar, but over what period of time?

I don't know where you are getting this information. Studies I read and observations I have performed personally with a blood glucose meter show the same spike in blood sugar whether you eat a cup of pasta or a candy bar an hour after consumption. There is no difference. You will obviously get more or less of what you need because of the varying nutritional content of the food, but it will always be accompanied by a blood sugar spike because of the carbohydrates followed by a normalization of blood sugar by insulin as it converts the sugar into fat.

Google the "glycemic index." It's an index used by diabetics to estimate the affect of food on their blood glucose level, and to manage their diabetes.

The question isn't whether there will be a blood sugar spike, it's a question of how intense and how long it will last. And it should be obvious why this matters.

Speaking of which, I'm going drinking now. I'm going to make sure I pace myself so I don't' get too drunk.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on July 04, 2010, 01:03:33 AM
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so once again: please follow my argument and debate me, not some straw man your keep pulling up for this.

Alright. Here is the problem it keeps coming down to. Diabetics cannot bring their blood sugar down without extra insulin and sometimes other medications. If a food like pasta which is placed lower on the glycemic index will spike your blood sugar (which it does in all observed incidences), why deal with the detrimental side effects as well as medication and insulin injections if you could avoid the food in the first place? This is the goal of the poster. As I keep repeating, diabetics becomes normal healthy people if they avoid carbohydrates entirely. Not just processed ones.

We know that a high carbohydrate diet will lead to insulin resistance and eventually diabetes as we see now with a large number of the American population. This path leads to where diabetics are now and still struggling with their diabetes because of carbohydrates recommended to them by the government.

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Hey guess what? Natural carbohydrates have a lot of dietary fiber, which makes you feel fuller quicker. It's the refined, processed sugar which has no nutritional value, which you are thinking of. Also, drinks are where a lot of people get sugar from - which you can drink more of.

Fiber does not produce an immediate feeling of fullness. As I said earlier there are several factors which determine whether you feel full at the time of eating. All dietary fiber does is aid in long term digestion which helps you feel full hours after you previous meal.

So yes fiber aids in digestion and reduces the amount of sugar absorbed into your bloodstream but like exercise it does not have a significant enough impact to offset high carbohydrate intake and is best countered by simply avoiding concentrated sources of any carbohydrate.

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Google the "glycemic index." It's an index used by diabetics to estimate the affect of food on their blood glucose level, and to manage their diabetes.

The question isn't whether there will be a blood sugar spike, it's a question of how intense and how long it will last. And it should be obvious why this matters.

I know what the glycemic index is and I also know that it is a guideline (https://www.joslin.org/info/the_glycemic_index_and_diabetes.html) to be used in conjunction with an already low carbohydrate centered diet and it has some big problems like not taking into account that foods categorized as low glucose can and do produce the same glucose readings as foods high in index.

And regardless of all of that, what do you mean by intensity and how long it will last? There is no compartmentalization. Your blood sugar is your blood sugar and if it is high (<150mg/dl) an hour or two hours after a meal then something is definitely wrong whether the meal is pasta or whether it is a candy bar.


Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on July 04, 2010, 11:49:05 AM
Why are we looking at a diabetic diet when trying to come up with the best diet for a non-diabetic person? If I drink 2 beers a day, as a healthy person with a healthy liver, there's several studies which show that will be beneficial to me. However, if I've been an alcoholic, and have destroyed my liver, maybe I shouldn't drink any alcohol. Likewise, as a healthy person with healthy kidneys and pancreas, I can eat a big meal full of pasta and lot of other carbohydrates, and be perfectly fine from it because I haven't pushed my system over the limit to diabetes.

And yes, a high carbohydrate diet will lead to diabetes, but you need to distinguish between types of diabetes, and you have yet to actually qualify the statement that the recommended daily intake of 50% of your caloric intake from carbs, is "too high." Furthermore, American's receive a lot of refined sugars and sugars which quickly spike the system, add no nutritional value, which all are known factors to increase the risk of diabetes.

Which is why I said that the poster ignores such things, because it does.

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Hey guess what? Natural carbohydrates have a lot of dietary fiber, which makes you feel fuller quicker. It's the refined, processed sugar which has no nutritional value, which you are thinking of. Also, drinks are where a lot of people get sugar from - which you can drink more of.

Fiber does not produce an immediate feeling of fullness. As I said earlier there are several factors which determine whether you feel full at the time of eating. All dietary fiber does is aid in long term digestion which helps you feel full hours after you previous meal.

So yes fiber aids in digestion and reduces the amount of sugar absorbed into your bloodstream but like exercise it does not have a significant enough impact to offset high carbohydrate intake and is best countered by simply avoiding concentrated sources of any carbohydrate.

Can't you just admit this is a point I have in my favor? You're trying to hide behind the fact that there are a lot of variables involved in what makes someone feel full, but it isn't as subjective and varying as you make it out to be. Quit trying to obfuscate the issue. Perform an experiment with yourself. Drink a 12 oz can of soda, see if you feel full and for how long. Then, go eat the equivelant amount of carbohydrates from a banana (I don't care to compute how many banana's that is), and see how full you feel and for how long. Or, eat a lot of pasta, and tell me how long that stays with you.

And I'm noticing your changing what you say a little. Best to avoid "concentrated sources of any carbohydrate." But that's exactly what refined and processed sugars are. Bread's and pasta's are more concentrated than fruit, but the question is whether the human body can handle the load.

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Google the "glycemic index." It's an index used by diabetics to estimate the affect of food on their blood glucose level, and to manage their diabetes.

The question isn't whether there will be a blood sugar spike, it's a question of how intense and how long it will last. And it should be obvious why this matters.

I know what the glycemic index is and I also know that it is a guideline (https://www.joslin.org/info/the_glycemic_index_and_diabetes.html) to be used in conjunction with an already low carbohydrate centered diet and it has some big problems like not taking into account that foods categorized as low glucose can and do produce the same glucose readings as foods high in index.

And regardless of all of that, what do you mean by intensity and how long it will last? There is no compartmentalization. Your blood sugar is your blood sugar and if it is high (<150mg/dl) an hour or two hours after a meal then something is definitely wrong whether the meal is pasta or whether it is a candy bar.

There may be problems with the glycemic index, but at the basic of it's foundation is the simple fact that not all carbs affect your blood sugar in the same ways. More complex carbohydrate take longer to digest, provide hours of energy, and don't spike the system like refined sugars. So basically, the glycemic index uses as a basic starting point something you reject: that all carbohydrates are the same and affect the body in the same way.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on July 04, 2010, 05:14:08 PM
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Why are we looking at a diabetic diet when trying to come up with the best diet for a non-diabetic person? If I drink 2 beers a day, as a healthy person with a healthy liver, there's several studies which show that will be beneficial to me. However, if I've been an alcoholic, and have destroyed my liver, maybe I shouldn't drink any alcohol. Likewise, as a healthy person with healthy kidneys and pancreas, I can eat a big meal full of pasta and lot of other carbohydrates, and be perfectly fine from it because I haven't pushed my system over the limit to diabetes.

What is the difference between a diabetic and a healthy person? Unless the disease is passed on genetically, all it is is a resistance to the effects of insulin. There is no difference in how a diabetic processes or absorbs carbohydrates, just how their bodies try to stabilize their blood sugar afterwards. But lets think this through. If you admit that a diet rich in carbohydrates leads to diabetes, and abstaining from all carbohydrates prevents the occurrence of any problems, then how does it make sense that some carbohydrates affect the body differently and can be eaten in excess without causing problems? The end result is the same in every clinical study. Carbohydrates lead to high blood sugar, consistent high blood sugar leads to insulin resistance, insulin resistance leads to diabetes and by time you are also likely obese.

Yes someone like you may be able to stave off obesity longer than someone like me would if we were on a high carbohydrate diet. You would probably also not gain as much weight as someone like I would. But the end result remains the same regardless of how you want to categorize carbs as good or bad.

https://heartscanblog.blogspot.com/2010/02/is-glycemic-index-irrelevant.html

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And yes, a high carbohydrate diet will lead to diabetes, but you need to distinguish between types of diabetes, and you have yet to actually qualify the statement that the recommended daily intake of 50% of your caloric intake from carbs, is "too high." Furthermore, American's receive a lot of refined sugars and sugars which quickly spike the system, add no nutritional value, which all are known factors to increase the risk of diabetes.

Either type of diabetic respond to a reduced or no carbohydrate diet the same way. Whether your body does not naturally produce enough or you are insulin resistant, eating food that does not raise your blood sugar at all literally reverses the damage done and returns normally sensitive diabetics into normal and functioning people without insulin or medication.

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Furthermore, American's receive a lot of refined sugars and sugars which quickly spike the system, add no nutritional value, which all are known factors to increase the risk of diabetes.

The problem is that when you try to compartmentalize carbohydrates like you are doing now, you make it harder for people to understand the danger of high blood sugar in itself. So yeah pasta scores better on the glycemic index than a candy bar because it has little fat, medium levels of protein, and a small amount of fiber. On the flip side, a candy bar and a bowl of pasta produce the same or comparable blood sugar levels an hour after a meal is eaten. Whether you are full or satisfied is irrelevant. The damage is done and if you repeat the process over and over again you will become diabetic.  

So I will say again, sugar is sugar is sugar is sugar. Sugar raises blood glucose. until you provide me a study that conclusively proves processed sugar any differently affects the body than normal sugar I am going to not respond to this anymore. The reason I am such a stickler on this is because even organizations that agree with your line of reasoning agree that sugar as a whole is the danger, not specifically hfcs or other processed sweeteners.


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Quit trying to obfuscate the issue. Perform an experiment with yourself. Drink a 12 oz can of soda, see if you feel full and for how long. Then, go eat the equivelant amount of carbohydrates from a banana (I don't care to compute how many banana's that is), and see how full you feel and for how long. Or, eat a lot of pasta, and tell me how long that stays with you.

And I'm noticing your changing what you say a little. Best to avoid "concentrated sources of any carbohydrate." But that's exactly what refined and processed sugars are. Bread's and pasta's are more concentrated than fruit, but the question is whether the human body can handle the load.

Maybe we just misunderstood each other on this part. I agree eating pure sugar as in candy is much worse than eating its equivalent in bananas, but for the wrong reasons. A candy bar will lack any type of nutrition that would keep you full whereas a bannana has a lot of things going for it nutrition wise, still contains a lot of sugar which causes the same problem the candy bar will, on top of not satisfying you. Where we disagree is how dangerous it is to your long term well being. Your body can handle high doses of sugar for a little while, but you made my point. The body cannot handle the load and eventually you develop diabetes because of it.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on July 05, 2010, 01:51:46 AM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iCVo8HbDpXI#t=1m49s

Watch that movie using that link, it jumps to a minute and a half in when the doc starts talking about a sugary vs starchy diet (candy vs potatoes, pasta, etc).
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on July 05, 2010, 10:50:16 PM
then how does it make sense that some carbohydrates affect the body differently and can be eaten in excess without causing problems?

Where did I ever say they can be eaten in excess? I'm pointing out that "excess" is different for a diabetic than it is a healthy person.

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And yes, a high carbohydrate diet will lead to diabetes, but you need to distinguish between types of diabetes, and you have yet to actually qualify the statement that the recommended daily intake of 50% of your caloric intake from carbs, is "too high." Furthermore, American's receive a lot of refined sugars and sugars which quickly spike the system, add no nutritional value, which all are known factors to increase the risk of diabetes.

Either type of diabetic respond to a reduced or no carbohydrate diet the same way. Whether your body does not naturally produce enough or you are insulin resistant, eating food that does not raise your blood sugar at all literally reverses the damage done and returns normally sensitive diabetics into normal and functioning people without insulin or medication.

Sorry, I had a brain fart and wrote types of diabetes, and meant types of carbohydrates.


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Furthermore, American's receive a lot of refined sugars and sugars which quickly spike the system, add no nutritional value, which all are known factors to increase the risk of diabetes.

The problem is that when you try to compartmentalize carbohydrates like you are doing now, you make it harder for people to understand the danger of high blood sugar in itself. So yeah pasta scores better on the glycemic index than a candy bar because it has little fat, medium levels of protein, and a small amount of fiber. On the flip side, a candy bar and a bowl of pasta produce the same or comparable blood sugar levels an hour after a meal is eaten. Whether you are full or satisfied is irrelevant. The damage is done and if you repeat the process over and over again you will become diabetic.  

Soo, I'm wrong because some people may be not be able to follow it?

And whether you are full or satisfied is relevant. I don't know why you keep thinking this. If you aren't full or satisfied, you go back for more; and more very often means more carbohydrates. The cycle you talk about is much more vicious with sweets and other concentrated sources of carbohydrates. Furthermore, a lack of nutrients, found with processed/refined carbohydrates, helps make you fatter and more prone to insulin resistance.

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So I will say again, sugar is sugar is sugar is sugar. Sugar raises blood glucose. until you provide me a study that conclusively proves processed sugar any differently affects the body than normal sugar I am going to not respond to this anymore. The reason I am such a stickler on this is because even organizations that agree with your line of reasoning agree that sugar as a whole is the danger, not specifically hfcs or other processed sweeteners.

You're narrowing the parameters too much (which has been my argument the entire time). Yes, on one level, sugar is sugar is sugar is sugar. But you for some reason don't want to look at the overall picture of how carbohydrates affect a person in different ways. I've pointed to studies, I've pointed to common medical practices, I've pointed to evolutionary biology, I've pointed to simple common sense. In many of these area's, we agree, you just stubbornly want to disagree. You keep thinking I'm saying "you're wrong," when all I'm saying is "yes, but there's also this to consider."

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Quit trying to obfuscate the issue. Perform an experiment with yourself. Drink a 12 oz can of soda, see if you feel full and for how long. Then, go eat the equivelant amount of carbohydrates from a banana (I don't care to compute how many banana's that is), and see how full you feel and for how long. Or, eat a lot of pasta, and tell me how long that stays with you.

And I'm noticing your changing what you say a little. Best to avoid "concentrated sources of any carbohydrate." But that's exactly what refined and processed sugars are. Bread's and pasta's are more concentrated than fruit, but the question is whether the human body can handle the load.

Maybe we just misunderstood each other on this part. I agree eating pure sugar as in candy is much worse than eating its equivalent in bananas, but for the wrong reasons. A candy bar will lack any type of nutrition that would keep you full whereas a bannana has a lot of things going for it nutrition wise, still contains a lot of sugar which causes the same problem the candy bar will, on top of not satisfying you. Where we disagree is how dangerous it is to your long term well being. Your body can handle high doses of sugar for a little while, but you made my point. The body cannot handle the load and eventually you develop diabetes because of it.

Last time I checked, we don't know exactly what kind of load the body can handle. Nor do we know how this holds true for everybody. Either way, the human body evolved to handle carbohydrates, and their complete demonization by you is ridiculous. You can't just lump a candy bar and a banana together based upon the fact that your body will process sugar out of it. I also wasn't aware that doctors had actually diagnosed what actually causes a person to stop producing enough insulin. Therefor, you can't say that high blood sugar alone is responsible for diabetes, though you can say it is a necessary component. For all you know, the nutrients that come along with a balanced diet prevent the body from breaking down and not be able to produce insulin (please correct me here if you have evidence to the contrary), meaning the spike in blood sugar caused by eating fruits, vegetables, starches, etc, are able to be handled by the body in a more or less safe manner (you can still gain weight, but that's why you moderate yourself).
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on July 07, 2010, 10:51:30 AM
Random question:

In another thread you linked to a report about how people in prison are fed according to the federal guidelines. Is there any relationship between prison, obesity and diabetes?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on July 08, 2010, 05:33:50 AM
I dont recall any studies that focus on obesity rates in prisons and google is not turning up much.

I know they eat a 2000-3000 calorie diet and in some prisons can use received or earned money on snacks and other foods. If I were to guess I would say that inmate populations look about the same as the average person in the US is now with the majority being slightly overweight or obese.

Take a look at this:
https://www.thetimesnews.com/articles/county-32316-served-inmates.html

Based on that meal plan I input it into my personal calorie and nutrition tracker and everything looked about right if you want to be fat.

https://img651.imageshack.us/i/prisonmeal.png/

https://img197.imageshack.us/i/prisnfood2.png/
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Tanatra on July 08, 2010, 09:09:30 AM
Last time I checked, we don't know exactly what kind of load the body can handle. Nor do we know how this holds true for everybody.

True, but we can reasonably estimate. The average person only needs 100-150 grams of carbohydrates a day, and possibly more/less than that depending on activity level and BMI (Basal Metabolic Intake, not that body mass index bullshit).

I wish I had time right now to find some studies for you that back this claim up, but these estimates come from athletes and hardcore (intelligent) health & exercise freaks that know their bodies inside & out, and are free of the special interests that so many scientific studies are subject to. After two years of experimenting with my diet and using an Excel spreadsheet for tracking macronutrient intake, I've come to agree with those estimates as well.

The FDA gets lobbied just like any other government organization. Do you think companies like Kellogg aren't doing their damndest to protect the federal guidelines that claim you should be eating more of their products? Hell, studies claiming that eggs were bad for you didn't start coming out until cereal became a popular breakfast food!

You can't just lump a candy bar and a banana together based upon the fact that your body will process sugar out of it, mmeaning the spike in blood sugar caused by eating fruits, vegetables, starches, etc, are able to be handled by the body in a more or less safe manner (you can still gain weight, but that's why you moderate yourself).

Also true; it's better to eat an orange than drink orange juice, as the fiber in the orange will slow down the digestion and releasing of carbohydrates into the bloodstream, whereas the orange juice is basically a sugar bomb. Fructose is also predisposed to being stored as liver glycogen instead of muscle glycogen, the former of which can lead to fat gain. Granted, this gain can be minimized if you moderate yourself like you said, but I just wanted to highlight the differences between carbohydrate types.

I wish I could say more, but as I'm short on time I'll just end with two posts by Robb Wolf, a sports nutritionist that was fired from his last job when he started suggesting changes to the "Zone" diet that the company had been making money off of for years:

https://robbwolf.com/2009/10/08/crossfit-on-a-low-carb-paleo-diet-mat-lalonde-reporting/

https://robbwolf.com/2008/11/03/post-wo-nutrition/

However, since I'm not quite a regular poster here, it's not like anyone is going to read/respond to this anyway.  :)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: chknptpie on July 08, 2010, 10:13:19 AM
What the heck is crawling out of that avatar's panties?!  :omg:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on July 08, 2010, 10:42:15 AM
The FDA gets lobbied just like any other government organization. Do you think companies like Kellogg aren't doing their damndest to protect the federal guidelines that claim you should be eating more of their products? Hell, studies claiming that eggs were bad for you didn't start coming out until cereal became a popular breakfast food!

I don't support any dietary guidelines by the government. However, libertarians want to blame everything on the government, as if simply because the FDA recommends 50% of caloric intake by carbohydrates, American's are getting fatter and more diabetic. Most American's probably get way more carbohydrates than recommended, and from sources which are not recommended, nor do they get nearly enough exercise/activity. This is what I was objecting to, because the story is not that simple. More importantly, it seems that where the government is actually playing an agent in our diet (through subsidization), isn't getting the attention it should if people are concerned about what the government recommends.

I'd also like to say that not all of us need to or want to be at "peak" performance, At some point, any argument about diet has to come down to how you want to live, and to what is actually "unhealthy" vs. "not-as-healthy." More carbs may add a little more fat to the body, but why is that in-and-of-itself a bad thing?

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You can't just lump a candy bar and a banana together based upon the fact that your body will process sugar out of it, mmeaning the spike in blood sugar caused by eating fruits, vegetables, starches, etc, are able to be handled by the body in a more or less safe manner (you can still gain weight, but that's why you moderate yourself).

Also true; it's better to eat an orange than drink orange juice, as the fiber in the orange will slow down the digestion and releasing of carbohydrates into the bloodstream, whereas the orange juice is basically a sugar bomb. Fructose is also predisposed to being stored as liver glycogen instead of muscle glycogen, the former of which can lead to fat gain. Granted, this gain can be minimized if you moderate yourself like you said, but I just wanted to highlight the differences between carbohydrate types.


Well this is pretty much what I've been trying to talk about. NR is adamant that all carbohydrates are the same, but they just aren't.

Take a look at this:
https://www.thetimesnews.com/articles/county-32316-served-inmates.html

Based on that meal plan I input it into my personal calorie and nutrition tracker and everything looked about right if you want to be fat.

https://img651.imageshack.us/i/prisonmeal.png/

https://img197.imageshack.us/i/prisnfood2.png/

Holy fuck, look at how much sodium they're getting. Though, since it's all processed foods, that shouldn't be too surprising...

It's also a little hard to know what each person drinks. I assume the inmates can still drink water if they choose to, and those fruit drinks are probably a "great" source of HFCS and other refined sugars.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Tanatra on July 08, 2010, 10:43:08 AM
What the heck is crawling out of that avatar's panties?!  :omg:

A tarantula. I chose it because it seems oddly fitting for my username, plus it freaks the crap out of people. At the last forum I used it as an avatar, someone created a poll to have it removed.  :lol

I'd also like to say that not all of us need to or want to be at "peak" performance, At some point, any argument about diet has to come down to how you want to live, and to what is actually "unhealthy" vs. "not-as-healthy." More carbs may add a little more fat to the body, but why is that in-and-of-itself a bad thing?

It only is if you're obsessed with "peak" performance, like I am.  :) Though ultimately, your sentiments are why I don't preach about healthy lifestyles. People are going live their lives however they want, regardless of anything I have to say. Personally, I get far more satisfaction out of reaching the exercise goals I set for myself, being <10% bodyfat, and just overall well-being and rarely being sick/ill than I would get from any tasty meal.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on July 09, 2010, 04:46:31 PM
https://www.theonion.com/video/truck-accident-that-killed-rafters-in-canyon-spark,17697/
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on July 09, 2010, 05:01:52 PM
 :rollin :rollin :rollin
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on July 13, 2010, 09:32:53 PM
I just had an ex of a friend call me a socialist because I said that the Constitution could become obsolete or no longer applicable to this country's government in the near future (near future meaning the next few decades).

???
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on July 13, 2010, 09:53:25 PM
What did you mean? Were you saying its a fact of life or it should.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on July 14, 2010, 11:19:22 AM
What did you mean? Were you saying its a fact of life or it should.

Either way, that isn't socialism.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on July 14, 2010, 11:23:48 AM
Socialist is just the new catch-all term for any person even moderately liberal that someone wants to discredit or insult.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Seventh Son on July 14, 2010, 11:28:30 AM
Socialist is just the new catch-all term for any person even moderately liberal that someone wants to discredit or insult.
I completely agree except Conservatives have been doing that forever, its not new.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on July 14, 2010, 11:32:07 AM
Well the word of choice has changed here and there; 5 years ago unpatriotic/terrorist sympathizer were far more popular than socialist.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Seventh Son on July 19, 2010, 11:31:44 AM
Well the word of choice has changed here and there; 5 years ago unpatriotic/terrorist sympathizer were far more popular than socialist.
True but in the end its meant to put down anyone that isn't a right-winger.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sir GuitarCozmo on July 21, 2010, 08:30:13 AM
A new acronym stands on the horizon, ready to take the world by storm:  BTFY

Breitbart'd That For You.  An example:

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Look, I've been racist. But I learned that it's wrong, so avoid thinking along racial lines.

BTFY
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on July 26, 2010, 05:40:01 PM
What did you mean? Were you saying its a fact of life or it should.

Either way, that isn't socialism.

That wasn't what I was getting at.
Title: Britain to be biggest population in Europe by 2050
Post by: AndyDT on July 29, 2010, 01:24:32 PM
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/7916924/Britain-to-be-biggest-country-in-Europe-by-2050.html
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on July 30, 2010, 11:30:23 PM
This is just awesome
https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/07/29/anthony-weiner-911-bill-ballistic_n_664568.html

"THE GENTLEMAN IS CORRECT IN SITTING!"
:lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on August 03, 2010, 12:50:43 PM
https://www.theonion.com/articles/recently-single-al-gore-finally-able-to-listen-to,17824/
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on August 03, 2010, 02:58:16 PM
I hate Senate Reps.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Logical Nightmare on August 04, 2010, 04:19:12 AM
I was going to post this in the GD chat thread but then realized its place is probably here.

Here's something that makes me angry:
I just read in the newspaper that there's a religious group called Team Exodus visiting my city. They're standing in the town trying to convert by-passers to Christianity. I dislike it when people try to "save" other people, because I completely hate it when someone tries to force their belief onto me, so this by itself is a bit annoying in my eyes. (Though I don't have anything against religious people in general, I want to make that clear - I just don't want them in my face with their religion when I haven't asked for it.) But these people just take it too far. What upsets me the most is that they save little children without their parents' permission, because "the only permission we need is God's" and "if God want them to come to us we can't send them away, that's what the Bible says." That is just wrong. Children are so easy to convince (the group said that themselves, even) that they barely even have a choice to make. They're going to believe what they are told. And it's their parents' choice whether they want them to hear it or not.
They also tried to save a young woman whose father recently passed away. They did it through praying - and not just praying FOR her father, they used a CELLPHONE to CALL him and pray TOGETHER with him. I can't believe there are people who think that would work. This group is totally nuts in my eyes! (Whether or not the woman was saved isn't said in the article.)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on August 04, 2010, 08:13:02 AM
What did you mean? Were you saying its a fact of life or it should.

A little bit of both.  I see that political actors in most if not all government institutions in the US are becoming really comfortable with the boundaries and loopholes of their respective institutions; in that way, the Constitution is on its way to becoming an obsolete check on government power.

On the other hand, in order to curb such a trend, perhaps the Constitution should be overhauled or replaced altogether, in order to put new/better constraints on the institutions.  Obviously stuff like freedom of speech, press, and religion would remain; it would simply be a rewrite of the government itself and the functions and powers allotted to it.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: PlaysLikeMyung on August 04, 2010, 08:14:39 AM
On the other hand, in order to curb such a trend, perhaps the Constitution should be overhauled or replaced altogether, in order to put new/better constraints on the institutions.  Obviously stuff like freedom of speech, press, and religion would remain; it would simply be a rewrite of the government itself and the functions and powers allotted to it.

I've always thought this would be a good idea. Those who drafted it in the 18th century couldn't possibly have predicted what life would hold and what government would be like today. It does seem outdated today
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on August 04, 2010, 09:28:28 AM
I was going to post this in the GD chat thread but then realized its place is probably here.

Here's something that makes me angry:
I just read in the newspaper that there's a religious group called Team Exodus visiting my city. They're standing in the town trying to convert by-passers to Christianity. I dislike it when people try to "save" other people, because I completely hate it when someone tries to force their belief onto me, so this by itself is a bit annoying in my eyes. (Though I don't have anything against religious people in general, I want to make that clear - I just don't want them in my face with their religion when I haven't asked for it.) But these people just take it too far. What upsets me the most is that they save little children without their parents' permission, because "the only permission we need is God's" and "if God want them to come to us we can't send them away, that's what the Bible says." That is just wrong. Children are so easy to convince (the group said that themselves, even) that they barely even have a choice to make. They're going to believe what they are told. And it's their parents' choice whether they want them to hear it or not.
They also tried to save a young woman whose father recently passed away. They did it through praying - and not just praying FOR her father, they used a CELLPHONE to CALL him and pray TOGETHER with him. I can't believe there are people who think that would work. This group is totally nuts in my eyes! (Whether or not the woman was saved isn't said in the article.)
Sounds like a good time for a holy war.  It seems like there should be other Christians offended by this sort of nonsense. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on August 05, 2010, 07:00:06 AM
@PLM: Agreed. No modern country should adhere to a constitution that's nearly three hundred years old (think about that: at least a quarter of a millennium, at most a third), especially considering the rapidity with which developments have been made in that time.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AndyDT on August 05, 2010, 11:36:18 PM
On the other hand, in order to curb such a trend, perhaps the Constitution should be overhauled or replaced altogether, in order to put new/better constraints on the institutions.  Obviously stuff like freedom of speech, press, and religion would remain; it would simply be a rewrite of the government itself and the functions and powers allotted to it.

I've always thought this would be a good idea. Those who drafted it in the 18th century couldn't possibly have predicted what life would hold and what government would be like today. It does seem outdated today

Is it about predictions? I thought it was about universal human values. The US Constitution itself was based on *much* older document from the 13th century. Who was it who said "the price of freedom is eternal vigilance"? I'd say that included knowing the history and origins of one's country i.e. England, the peasant's revolt, the Magna Carta, the English Bill or Rights, Great Britain, religious pilgrims seeking freedom, people seeking freedom from arrogant government, the formation of the UN by the second world war victors (Britain, the US, Russia et al.) etc. But then that takes effort I suppose.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on August 06, 2010, 07:39:23 AM
Indeed. Americans are rather selective not only of what they remember, but how they remember it. In addition, I feel as though we take the "constant vigilance" bit too far, to the point where any cooperation between the government and its people is needlessly difficult.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on August 18, 2010, 09:49:13 PM
I will go tomorrow to hear Francis Fukuyama. It's been too long since I read his famous book. It's going to be interesting, that's for sure. I don't know what to ask him if I get the chance.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: soundgarden on August 20, 2010, 11:04:43 AM
The recent Daily Show episode concerning the Mosque was well done with the Charlton Heston clip. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on August 20, 2010, 06:59:47 PM
Yes. It was amazing.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: soundgarden on August 24, 2010, 11:48:44 AM
Wow, another great one with the Saudi News Copr shareholder bashing by Fox....
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MetalMike06 on August 27, 2010, 04:39:43 PM
https://www.politico.com/news/stories/0810/41504.html

lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: hefdaddy42 on September 06, 2010, 06:07:47 AM
(https://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i238/hefdaddy42/funny/beck.png)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on September 06, 2010, 06:59:55 AM
On that note, apparently Sarah Palin tried to tweet Glenn Beck during his beckapalooza rally thing, and instead tweeted Beck the musician about it.  :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: hefdaddy42 on September 06, 2010, 08:52:26 PM
On that note, I find it interesting that Beck's most well-known lyric is "I'm a loser baby, so why don't you kill me"
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MetalMike06 on September 07, 2010, 04:06:45 PM
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-11223457

Awful.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on September 07, 2010, 04:09:28 PM
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-11223457

Awful.

Also good publicity. Which is all it is.

"We love everyone" is a message that falls on deaf ears.
"We gonna burn them brown peoples book" is a message that everyone will listen to it.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on September 08, 2010, 01:27:01 PM
https://www.theonion.com/articles/us-ends-combat-operations-in-iraq,18045/


Quote
Last week, the U.S. occupation of Iraq officially ceased being a combat mission as the military entered the stability phase of its operations. Here are some of the major victories of the seven-and-a-half-year war:

Oct. 11, 2002: In the most crucial victory of the campaign, the Bush administration wins enough congressional votes to authorize war
Apr. 12, 2003: Statue of Iraqi track star Taffar Al Saffar toppled in front of Mosul Boys & Girls Club
Nov. 27, 2003: President Bush absentmindedly gnaws at prop Thanksgiving turkey while watching The New Three Stooges cartoon on portable DVD player
Oct. 17, 2004: Anger over the invasion and daily bombings spurs the creation of al-Qaeda in Iraq, finally producing the enemy we need to justify the war
Nov. 7, 2004: The second, and best, Battle of Fallujah begins
Nov. 11, 2006: A drone aircraft armed with Hellfire missiles foils a carefully orchestrated plan to wed Hakim Jassar al-Rawi and Sanaa Haydar
Dec. 30, 2006: Iraqi officials execute the most convincing of Saddam Hussein's look-alikes
May. 2007: 121 U.S. troops die, which is way less than 500

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: hefdaddy42 on September 11, 2010, 04:55:49 AM
The Governator jabs at Palin

https://twitter.com/Schwarzenegger/status/24068075611

lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on September 11, 2010, 11:54:47 AM
1963-CIA accidentally overthrows Costa Rica (https://www.theonion.com/video/ospan-classic-cia-accidentally-overthrows-costa-ri,18056/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+OnionNewsNetwork+%28Onion+News+Network%29&utm_content=Google+Feedfetcher)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: soundgarden on September 13, 2010, 11:59:04 AM
The Governator jabs at Palin

https://twitter.com/Schwarzenegger/status/24068075611

lol

"as the search continues" lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on September 17, 2010, 05:40:04 PM
Wired's Guide to driving in Kabul (https://www.wired.com/autopia/2010/09/wired-coms-guide-to-driving-in-kabul/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+wired%2Findex+%28Wired%3A+Index+3+%28Top+Stories+2%29%29&utm_content=Google+Feedfetcher)

I really love trying to get around in weird places, but I think I'll be giving Afghanistan a miss. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: hefdaddy42 on September 25, 2010, 11:56:38 AM
Did anyone see Stephen Colbert's testimony before Congress yesterday?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Perpetual Change on September 26, 2010, 04:59:27 AM
^it was weird. I'm not sure what he was going for, but not many people were laughing. He did raise some good points, though.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: hefdaddy42 on September 26, 2010, 06:42:43 AM
^it was weird. I'm not sure what he was going for, but not many people were laughing. He did raise some good points, though.
Not many people were laughing because Congress is stupid.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: GuineaPig on October 01, 2010, 03:20:24 PM
Well, Canada has a new governor general.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on October 04, 2010, 05:13:50 PM
This isn't meaningful or relevant, I just thought all the American political enthusiasts would enjoy it:

(https://zs1.smbc-comics.com/comics/20101001.gif)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sir GuitarCozmo on October 06, 2010, 09:24:43 PM
(https://deus-ex-machinima.net/images/cb.jpg)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on October 07, 2010, 12:00:54 AM
I love that strip.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Chino on October 13, 2010, 12:25:58 PM
That's a great strip.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on October 13, 2010, 10:34:22 PM
Whatever happened to Scheavo?  Guy just up and disappeared. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on October 13, 2010, 11:01:02 PM
When I said in the "hostile" thread that this got stale... I think he concurred.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on October 14, 2010, 07:29:27 AM
"Schwarzenegger drops in on David Cameron":

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-11540969

"David Cameron joked that Mr Schwarzenegger would help "terminate the budget deficit"."

That made me lol but not in the way that it was intended.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on October 14, 2010, 11:52:43 AM
Whatever happened to Scheavo?  Guy just up and disappeared. 

I was wondering that the other day as well  :-\
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: ariich on October 15, 2010, 02:23:53 PM
"Schwarzenegger drops in on David Cameron":

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-11540969

"David Cameron joked that Mr Schwarzenegger would help "terminate the budget deficit"."

That made me lol but not in the way that it was intended.
That is amazing. :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: PlaysLikeMyung on October 15, 2010, 02:24:55 PM
"Schwarzenegger drops in on David Cameron":

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-11540969

"David Cameron joked that Mr Schwarzenegger would help "terminate the budget deficit"."

That made me lol but not in the way that it was intended.

lol in the 'Arnold has his own budget problem' way?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on October 15, 2010, 04:47:15 PM
Yep.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on October 16, 2010, 02:27:55 AM
For the lulz

(https://i.imgur.com/eTVaN.jpg)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on October 16, 2010, 03:16:40 AM
 :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: soundgarden on October 17, 2010, 11:32:56 PM
...with diligence and stability.   :rollin
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on October 25, 2010, 05:02:06 PM
Quote
Deutschland über alles

Chile's president, in a token of gratitude of what Germany did to support the trapped miners in the coal mine, wrote those  words in the Golden Book of visits without a clue that the Germans associate that phrase with their Nazi past. (That phrase started the old National Anthem.)

I think it translates into "Germany overall".

:facepalm:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on October 26, 2010, 09:54:04 AM
https://www.theonion.com/articles/my-opponent-knows-where-washington-is-on-a-map-i-d,18330/

Quote
As your Republican nominee for U.S. Senate, I'm grateful to have this opportunity to reach out to the people of Wisconsin and draw some distinctions between myself—a D.C. outsider—and Russ Feingold. The incumbent is a classic tax-and-spend liberal who, if elected, will increase the deficit even further. But most importantly, Russ Feingold is a career politician who knows exactly where to find our nation's capital on a map.

Me? I don't have the slightest idea. If somebody asked me right now where Washington, D.C. is, I would say north, but that's really just a shot in the dark. I am literally clueless.

You see, Russ Feingold has been a senator for nearly 20 years. He knows the Beltway backwards and forwards. Heck, I bet he could even tell you which state Washington, D.C. is in. I, on the other hand, don't even know what the "D.C." stands for, and I never will. I'll die before I acquire that information, and that is my promise to you.

Is D.C. where Mount Rushmore is? Beats me. Ask Russ Feingold.

Truth be told, I never even heard the name "Washington, D.C." until I decided to run for the Senate. When I am elected, I will have no idea how to get there or where I'm supposed to go. Will there be buildings there? Is it temperate, rainy, hot, or arid? Do people speak English in this place, this Washington, D.C.?

I haven't the foggiest. But you know who does? You know who probably knows what year Washington, D.C. was founded and who it's named after? Russ Feingold, geography whiz and soon-to-be-former senator from the great state of Wisconsin.

If, in fact, Wisconsin is even technically a state. Is it? To tell you the truth, I'm not 100 percent certain America is made up of states. We might be living in a fiefdom, for all I know.

Am I spelling that right? "Wisconsin." It looks weird written out.

What I do know is that my opponent is a liberal, he'll raise your taxes, and he didn't vote for financial reform because he didn't think it went far enough. Now let me ask you a question: Isn't it time you elected an outsider who doesn't even know what casting a vote means? Someone who doesn't know the number of U.S. senators or whether they are appointed by some kind of special committee?

Ladies and gentlemen, isn't it time you elected someone who only learned five minutes ago that there are three branches of government, not 14?

Once again: Russ Feingold could point out Washington, D.C. with his eyes closed, and I have never quite grasped the difference between a map and a light-up globe. That is the difference I bring to the race, and that is the kind of leadership we need.

For the past 17 years Russ Feingold has done nothing but let down the people of this great state, or territory, or place, or whatever this is. He's a D.C. insider who has well-thought-out positions on issues. I don't know what issues are.

I want your vote, if that is a thing, and I want a lot of them—as many as you can spare. Perhaps you could mail them to me. I don't know.

While Russ Feingold likes to talk about how he's worked across the aisle and fostered relationships with both John McCain and members of the House of Representatives to pass campaign finance reform, I am proud to say that, as a political outsider, I could not begin to tell you what an aisle is or how the House of Representatives is remotely involved. Furthermore, who the heck is John McCain?

Here is what I know: Washington, D.C. is far away. Outer space is farther away. And Caesar salad is a kind of salad. What more do you need?

What we don't need is Russ Feingold, who is a Democrat capable of conjugating verbs and composing thoughts in sentence form. I'll be honest, I have absolutely no clue what I've been saying here this entire time. What is time? Where am I? Who are you? How do telescopes work, and why am I writing this right now? I don't know, I don't know, I don't know.

Because I am an outsider and Russ Feingold is a man with dark hair.

Furthermore, overspending, the left-wing media, tax cuts, class warfare, Muslims, Obamacare, Nancy Pelosi, corporate giveaways, socialism, Nancy Pelosi. Washington, D.C.

Voter-people of Wisoncassinn, my name is Rob Jameson, and I want to be your congressman or Parliament or surgeon general or whatever the hell it is I'm running for. Thank you.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Seventh Son on October 29, 2010, 12:26:20 PM
And the onions wins yet again  :rollin
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Rina on November 01, 2010, 09:25:34 PM
For the lulz

(https://i.imgur.com/eTVaN.jpg)

 :rollin
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: YtseBitsySpider on November 03, 2010, 08:15:45 AM
Why has Andy not started a thread on the newly announced military/naval co-operationt between the British and the French. Including bilingual aircraft carriers that both nations can land their planes on.

Or did I just miss it.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: pogoowner on November 03, 2010, 01:37:37 PM
With all the pointless bickering going on in this part of the forum, here's something a bit more lighthearted. But unfortunately, these are the people who vote in our country.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_23Nt5XumaU (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_23Nt5XumaU)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Ħ on November 03, 2010, 08:04:21 PM
With all the pointless bickering going on in this part of the forum, here's something a bit more lighthearted. But unfortunately, these are the people who vote in our country.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_23Nt5XumaU (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_23Nt5XumaU)

 :rollin

That's almost as bad as this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JUP9Jm9SqvY
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: YtseBitsySpider on November 04, 2010, 09:30:45 AM
Um....wow... canadians can be dumb sometimes.

https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/ontario/ontario-legion-branch-shut-down-after-kkk-halloween-costume-debacle/article1784812/
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Progmetty on November 07, 2010, 05:50:44 AM
https://edition.cnn.com/2010/WORLD/asiapcf/11/07/indonesia.obama.protest/index.html?eref=mrss_igoogle_cnn

The O man is not getting a break anywhere.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on November 10, 2010, 08:58:09 AM
If Other Industries Were As Evil as the RIAA (https://www.cracked.com/photoplasty_147_if-other-industries-were-as-evil-as-riaa/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+CrackedRSS+%28Cracked%3A+All+Posts%29&utm_content=Google+Feedfetcher)

(https://i.crackedcdn.com/phpimages/photoshop/2/7/0/35270.jpg?v=1)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MetalMike06 on November 11, 2010, 09:26:03 PM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7UAeSsvHhTg&feature=sub

 :rollin
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on November 14, 2010, 12:12:03 AM
For Chrissake...I just saw this posted as a status on FB.  This "friend" of mine...there are just no words.

https://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=576926692520&oid=190824176445&comments

If you're wondering but too lazy to click, some video by Jesse Ventura.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: PlaysLikeMyung on November 14, 2010, 06:41:17 AM
That show looks dumb as hell
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Tick on November 17, 2010, 02:55:37 PM
I post a thread as a goof and now I'm a dick because no one got my sense of humor?  I guess it was a bad idea to think I wouldn't be misunderstood. Live and learn.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on November 17, 2010, 02:57:28 PM
I post a thread as a goof and now I'm a dick because no one got my sense of humor?  I guess it was a bad idea to think I wouldn't be misunderstood. Live and learn.

I think it's a mix of that, you calling out whoever it was for the "no homo" comment and going pretty far with it, and posting the blue man almost every time you post.

I dunno, usually joke threads don't last too long in P/R. You might have been better off posting it in GD.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on November 17, 2010, 02:58:45 PM
I post a thread as a goof and now I'm a dick because no one got my sense of humor?  I guess it was a bad idea to think I wouldn't be misunderstood. Live and learn.
I bet that if you had posted it here instead of starting a thread, everybody would have gotten that it was a goof and that would have been the end of it.  Just a hunch.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Tick on November 17, 2010, 03:14:57 PM
It certainly was meant to amuse and not offend.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Rina on November 17, 2010, 03:44:59 PM
It could be what El Barto said - maybe making a thread did it. (And the overuse of the smilie)  :P

But no one died so it's not a big deal, just maybe avoid that kind've thing in this area of the forum.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on November 17, 2010, 03:48:48 PM
Yeah, usually all the joke/funny posts in P&R are done in the chat thread.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on November 17, 2010, 03:49:36 PM
Yeah, usually all the joke/funny posts in P&R are done in the chat thread.

And andys threads.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on November 17, 2010, 03:50:44 PM
Pardon my omission.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Tick on November 17, 2010, 07:43:26 PM
As I said, it was just for a chuckle and was said tongue and cheek. I didn't think it would be taken serious.
I didn't even get a chance to mention how racist people are who are dreaming of a White Christmas. :tick2:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: GuineaPig on November 17, 2010, 08:16:13 PM
I don't think anyone took it seriously. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Keyboardframe on November 17, 2010, 09:53:30 PM
came across as a racist pig to me :tick2: :tick2: :tick2:

glad to see it was a misunderstanding :tick2: :tick2: :tick2: :tick2: :tick2: :tick2:

i forgive you tick :tick2: :tick2: :tick2: :tick2: :tick2: :tick2: :tick2: :tick2: :tick2:




















:tick2:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Tick on November 18, 2010, 06:23:31 AM
came across as a racist pig to me :tick2: :tick2: :tick2:

glad to see it was a misunderstanding :tick2: :tick2: :tick2: :tick2: :tick2: :tick2:

i forgive you tick :tick2: :tick2: :tick2: :tick2: :tick2: :tick2: :tick2: :tick2: :tick2:




















:tick2:
Sorry you took it that way. I guess I forget people don't know that I use humor in almost everything I do.
I would be quite frightened of anyone who could actually write something like that in a serious manner.
As others have said, I could have just put it in this thread and perhaps it would have gotten a laugh.
I posted it on a Rush board I have posted on for 5 years. I have over 20,000 posts there and everyone to a man knew it was me being me. It was taken as I meant without one person thinking it otherwise. I guess being a class clown can be misunderstood.
I thought of the term Black Friday and ran with it.
You should hear what I could come up with for White Christmas, but I will leave that to the imagination.

Wait for it.....









































































:tick2:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on November 18, 2010, 06:49:57 AM
As I said, it was just for a chuckle and was said tongue and cheek. I didn't think it would be taken serious.
I didn't even get a chance to mention how racist people are who are dreaming of a White Christmas. :tick2:

The guy who wrote White Christmas was Jewish.

-1
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Tick on November 18, 2010, 07:03:16 AM
As I said, it was just for a chuckle and was said tongue and cheek. I didn't think it would be taken serious.
I didn't even get a chance to mention how racist people are who are dreaming of a White Christmas. :tick2:

The guy who wrote White Christmas was Jewish.

-1
Do you know what comedy satire is?
-100 :tick2:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sir GuitarCozmo on November 18, 2010, 12:33:50 PM
FWIW tick, I immediately saw the humor and complete lack of seriousness in that post.  I thought it was damned funny and knew right away that there was absolutely no way in hell you'd have posted something like that as ANYTHING but humor.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on November 18, 2010, 12:34:16 PM
FWIW tick, I immediately saw the humor and complete lack of seriousness in that post.  I thought it was damned funny and knew right away that there was absolutely no way in hell you'd have posted something like that as ANYTHING but humor.

No one thought it was serious.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sir GuitarCozmo on November 18, 2010, 12:37:13 PM
The two responses that didn't come from PLM sounded to me like they thought he was serious.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Tick on November 18, 2010, 12:37:37 PM
FWIW tick, I immediately saw the humor and complete lack of seriousness in that post.  I thought it was damned funny and knew right away that there was absolutely no way in hell you'd have posted something like that as ANYTHING but humor.

No one thought it was serious.
Did you read the responses? They were more ridiculous they what I wrote. Has no one figured out who I am yet?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Tick on November 18, 2010, 12:38:37 PM
FWIW tick, I immediately saw the humor and complete lack of seriousness in that post.  I thought it was damned funny and knew right away that there was absolutely no way in hell you'd have posted something like that as ANYTHING but humor.
Thanks Cozmo, it was meant for a laugh.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on November 18, 2010, 12:41:25 PM
The two responses that didn't come from PLM sounded to me like they thought he was serious.

They called it spam. They called it trolling. Because it was a joke thread. That's all. Sentence fragments.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: PlaysLikeMyung on November 18, 2010, 12:44:12 PM
The two responses that didn't come from PLM sounded to me like they thought he was serious.

Exactly. So we can finally put this to rest:

There are people who will see that and take it seriously. Trying to decipher emotion (ie, humor) on the internet is really hard, and so not everybody is going to take it seriously.

Not to mention it's not really a P/R topic and probably would have been better in GD.

Also, for what it's worth, I didn't lock it. When I checked my computer I saw that it was already locked. Please don't blame me.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sir GuitarCozmo on November 18, 2010, 12:49:04 PM
(https://www.bitlogic.com/images/trolldar2.gif)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on November 21, 2010, 09:22:33 PM
https://www.independentpoliticalreport.com/2010/11/david-f-nolan-1943-2010/

David Nolan, founder of the Libertarian Party, died of a heart attack this morning.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on December 03, 2010, 05:07:43 PM
Debating whether or not 1s and 0s have value made me thing about this little gem:

5 Reasons the Future will be Ruled by Bullshit (https://www.cracked.com/article_18817_5-reasons-future-will-be-ruled-by-b.s..html)

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sir GuitarCozmo on December 06, 2010, 06:29:57 AM
Chicago area Islamic Center denied building permit for being 810 miles too close to Ground Zero:

https://www.chicagobreakingnews.com/2010/12/islamic-groups-petition-for-suburban-religious-center-denied.html
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on December 06, 2010, 06:40:39 AM
I talked about the movie fat-head a lot when I used to post those articles about the 2010 dietary guidelines and how our societies condemnation of saturated fat is unjustified. Fortunately, Fat-Head just finally came out on Hulu and you can watch it there:

https://www.hulu.com/watch/196879/fat-head
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: PlaysLikeMyung on December 06, 2010, 10:40:19 AM
Chicago area Islamic Center denied building permit for being 810 miles too close to Ground Zero:

https://www.chicagobreakingnews.com/2010/12/islamic-groups-petition-for-suburban-religious-center-denied.html

Septic concerns? Bullshit
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sir GuitarCozmo on December 06, 2010, 11:43:48 AM
Not certain who the shit-for-brains was that denied their permit, but after all this, he's likely to find himself up Shit Creek without a paddle.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: PlaysLikeMyung on December 06, 2010, 12:01:16 PM
Yeah they'll probably end up approving it down the road. But really? Septic concerns? That's just so transparent
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on January 12, 2011, 10:57:48 AM
When looking into free speech info for the WBC thread, I stumbled across this.  It's audio of the oral arguments in Hustler Magazine vs. Falwell.  It doesn't pertain directly to the WBC matter, so I didn't post it there, but it's great insight into how the infliction of emotional distress is viewed by the courts.

As an aside, I didn't know that they made these available.  Listening to these really gives you an appreciation for how nerve-racking it would be to spend 30 minutes arguing in front of these people.  Any preparation you might have made is worthless when they start grilling you with some tough question.  Big balls seem to be in order.

https://www.oyez.org/sites/default/files/audio/cases/1987/86-1278_19871202-argument.mp3
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on January 23, 2011, 04:48:39 AM
https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/01/06/oreilly-god-causes-tides_n_805262.html

lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: TheVoxyn on January 23, 2011, 05:10:45 AM
https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/01/06/oreilly-god-causes-tides_n_805262.html

lol
:lol
I think the atheist guy was a tad aggresive, but the other guy was pretty stupid.

Also, 0.4% atheist in America? Didn't know it was that little (if it's true). I just wiki'd it and it seems its 27% over here.



edit: Just watched his clip with Dawkins. Why is that guy still on tv?  :|
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Riceball on January 23, 2011, 05:14:51 AM
https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/01/06/oreilly-god-causes-tides_n_805262.html

lol

I second that lol...ignorance must be bliss.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: TheVoxyn on January 23, 2011, 05:20:18 AM
I just watched some more clips of O'Reilly. I don't get why that guy is still on tv. What a ignorant lieing bastard.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on January 23, 2011, 06:29:13 AM
I don't get why that guy is still on tv.

Protip: It's Fox News.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on January 24, 2011, 03:23:59 PM
I just watched some more clips of O'Reilly. I don't get why that guy is still on tv. What a ignorant lieing bastard.

Most watched news show in Amerika.

As for the atheist, I think he was right about something.  A helluva lot of the Americans that profess themselves to be Christians don't really buy into it.  Plenty of them like to think there's a God, and a few don't really even believe that.  Looking at the discrepancy between professed atheists here and in Europe, I'd be willing to be that the numbers are a lot closer than they appear, it's just that Europeans have the balls to admit what Americans won't. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: jsem on January 24, 2011, 03:26:34 PM
Europe has been in essence post-christian for quite some time already.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Progmetty on January 26, 2011, 12:49:13 PM
3 of my friends are in prison and one is missing, I should have been there, I'm the one who bitched most and started protests in college but now I'm safely away from it all sipping my diet coke and reading about it on the net :(
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on January 26, 2011, 01:18:55 PM
3 of my friends are in prison and one is missing, I should have been there, I'm the one who bitched most and started protests in college but now I'm safely away from it all sipping my diet coke and reading about it on the net :(
Maybe you could help leaking info out and publishing on Twitter et al. I dunno.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Progmetty on January 26, 2011, 07:42:12 PM
I'm writing what we call "recruiting articles" as we call them, it's been used and some people like them but that's not really like being there and getting tear gassed, 6 people so far beaten to death, this is the biggest attempt of revolution our lazy asses has ever tried.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on January 27, 2011, 07:01:24 AM
First Tunisia, then Egypt now Yemen. I think this deserves its own thread.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on January 27, 2011, 08:48:16 AM
https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/01/06/oreilly-god-causes-tides_n_805262.html

lol
:lol
I think the atheist guy was a tad aggresive, but the other guy was pretty stupid.

Also, 0.4% atheist in America? Didn't know it was that little (if it's true). I just wiki'd it and it seems its 27% over here.



edit: Just watched his clip with Dawkins. Why is that guy still on tv?  :|

From the Religion in America wiki: Unaffiliated, including atheist or agnostic (11.6%[12] to 15% [4])

Even that could be a gross underestimation.
Title: WON'T SOMEBODY PLEASE THINK OF THE CHILDREN!!!
Post by: El Barto on February 08, 2011, 03:04:26 PM
More senseless hysteria.  According to the Dallas Women's foundation, 38,000 child sex workers would be shipped into Dallas to meet the demands of pervy football fans.  Seriously, doesn't anybody question anything any more?

https://www.dallasobserver.com/2011-01-27/news/the-super-bowl-prostitute-myth-100-000-hookers-won-t-be-showing-up-in-dallas/

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Riceball on February 08, 2011, 07:50:57 PM
The US seems to be slowly falling to pieces. For the media to even publish such drivel is horrendous.

Although, the number one story in Australia at the moment is our leader of the Federal Opposition saying to a soldier that "shit happens" in war when talking about a casualty. Seriously, this journo from one of our major TV stations ambushed the guy. His reaction is priceless:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yv7KjYFqxgA

EDIT: Skip the first 45 seconds.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: TheVoxyn on February 09, 2011, 06:15:45 AM
Of course it's very blunt, but he does have (sort of) a point. When the first Dutch casualty fell in Afghanistan, the newspapers and television were full of stories that we should retreat and how tragic everything was. But come on, there was a war going on. You can expect some people to die. Were we sending them in expecting them to have the best time of their lives and all come back completely healthy?

Also, no one seemed to give a damn when the reports came out detailing the deaths of a lot of innocent civilians (not by Dutch troops btw, but still...).
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on February 09, 2011, 11:52:47 AM
Catholic church gives blessing to iPhone app

Quote
The Catholic Church has approved an iPhone app that helps guide worshippers through confession.

The Confession program has gone on sale through iTunes for £1.19 ($1.99).

Described as "the perfect aid for every penitent", it offers users tips and guidelines to help them with the sacrament.

Now senior church officials in both the UK and US have given it their seal of approval, in what is thought to be a first.

The app takes users through the sacrament - in which Catholics admit their wrongdoings - and allows them to keep track of their sins.

It also allows them to examine their conscience based on personalised factors such as age, sex and marital status - but it is not intended to replace traditional confession entirely.

Instead, it encourages users to understand their actions and then visit their priest for absolution.
Continue reading the main story

Start Quote

Our desire is to invite Catholics to engage in their faith through digital technology”
Patrick Leinen
Little iApps

"Our desire is to invite Catholics to engage in their faith through digital technology," Patrick Leinen of developer Little iApps told Reuters.

The launch comes shortly after Pope Benedict XVI gave urging to Christians to embrace digital communication and make their presence felt online.

In his World Communications Address on 24 January, he said it was not a sin to use social networking sites - and particularly encouraged young Catholics to share important information with each other online.

"I invite young people above all to make good use of their presence in the digital world," he said.


He warned them to keep in mind that digital communication was part of a bigger picture, however.

"It is important always to remember that virtual contact cannot and must not take the place of direct human contact with people at every level of our lives."

Confession's developers, who are based in Indiana, said they took the Pope's words to heart when they were preparing the application for public consumption.

"Our goal with this project is to offer a digital application that is truly 'new media at the service of the word'," said the company.

The firm said the app was developed with assistance from several priests and had been given the church's imprimatur by Bishop Kevin Rhoades of the Diocese of Fort Wayne in Indiana.

A spokesperson from the Catholic Bishops' Conference of England and Wales told BBC News the app was a "useful tool to help people prepare for the Sacrament of Reconciliation".

"The Church believes in embracing new technology and this creative app will hopefully help people to make a good confession."

It is thought to be the first time the church has approved a mobile phone application, although it is not entirely unfamiliar with the digital world.

In 2007, the Vatican launched its own YouTube channel.

Two years later created a Facebook application that lets users send virtual postcards featuring the pontiff.

(https://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/51146000/jpg/_51146321_51146320.jpg)

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-12391129
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on February 09, 2011, 12:21:08 PM
And today the Vatican said it doesn't allow it. :(

Title: What a wise and wonderful man
Post by: El Barto on February 10, 2011, 07:42:27 PM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mLEtb9N9oMA&feature=related
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on February 10, 2011, 07:55:05 PM
Funny, but that was a little too much rambling.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on February 10, 2011, 08:05:41 PM
You miss the point.  It was an interview for Archive of American Television; not an HBO special.  What we normally get to see is the streamlined and well crafted snippet of the man's thoughts.  This was the real deal. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on February 10, 2011, 08:24:05 PM
The real deal is him making several interesting observations but rambling too much. Yes I got that.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on February 12, 2011, 08:12:08 AM
Does anyone here happen to know if TopNews is a legit news source?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on February 15, 2011, 10:21:25 PM
Apparently the House is discussing the possibility of gov't shutdown in March.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on February 16, 2011, 08:09:35 PM
Apparently the House is discussing the possibility of gov't shutdown in March.
Not at all surprising.  In fact, quite predictable.  Naturally it has nothing to do with the actual spending, but more about trying to stick it to Obama.  The last time they tried this they got their asses handed to them by a fairly popular Clinton.  They really came off looking like assholes and idiots.  With Obama appearing somewhat week at the moment, they're looking at is a means of keeping the base energized.  If they can take him on and win, it'll look quite well for them. 

Personally, I doubt it'll work.  For one thing,  Obama's actually been doing a pretty good job of playing the reasonable type.  He's looking fairly even-handed in his dealings with the GOP.  I suspect he'll be able to play that against them.  Plus, he's got history on his side.  People will feel naturally inclined to side with the Executive as they did last time.  Lastly,  the White House will be in the passive role.  It'll be the Republican congress that actually shuts things down, and that'll also look bad to the people who are hurt by it. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nigerius Rex on February 28, 2011, 12:17:04 PM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x7bi7vHsbVg&feature=player_embedded

Never even knew Canada at one point was worse than the US in terms of debt.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: ddtonfire on March 08, 2011, 05:47:17 AM
Ah yes, here we go:

(https://www.smbc-comics.com/comics/20110308.gif)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on March 12, 2011, 10:20:29 AM
Really good, interesting op-ed:

https://www.nytimes.com/2011/03/12/opinion/12herbert.html?_r=1&hp
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on March 15, 2011, 02:49:24 PM
We're officially in trouble: https://www.nytimes.com/2010/12/22/science/earth/22carbon.html?pagewanted=5&ref=temperaturerising
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on March 30, 2011, 09:12:29 AM
A good article on the downsides of the current spending cut policy: https://opinionator.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/03/29/why-were-fasting/?hp
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: hefdaddy42 on April 03, 2011, 04:26:19 AM
(https://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i238/hefdaddy42/funny/95theseslol.jpg)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on April 10, 2011, 12:13:24 AM
Our "College Republicans" group on campus got the university to pay $25,000 for Karl Rove to come speak. I want to vomit.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: ricky on April 19, 2011, 11:04:44 PM
Our "College Republicans" group on campus got the university to pay $25,000 for Karl Rove to come speak. I want to vomit.

Just for the record, I identify as a republican, yet I agree with your statement.

when will there be a candidate that appeals to us moderate republicans?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Quadrochosis on April 20, 2011, 06:22:32 AM
when will there be a candidate that appeals to us moderate republicans?

When the hardcore rightwing base of your party shut up.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: millahh on April 20, 2011, 06:59:31 PM
when will there be a candidate that appeals to us moderate republicans?

When the hardcore rightwing base of your party shut up.

Or when the moderates grow a pair, and stop pandering to the wingnuts for the sake of a few votes.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: hefdaddy42 on April 23, 2011, 03:30:04 PM
(https://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i238/hefdaddy42/funny/philosophyrefsignals.jpg)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: ricky on April 23, 2011, 10:02:41 PM
when will there be a candidate that appeals to us moderate republicans?

When the hardcore rightwing base of your party shut up.

Or when the moderates grow a pair, and stop pandering to the wingnuts for the sake of a few votes.

we honestly don't pander, i have been going to lengths to distance myself from the types of palin, etc. I guarantee you that the only way that the republican party has a chance of beating obama in 2012 is to nominate a representative that isn't a right wing nutjob.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on April 25, 2011, 10:08:12 PM
I was curious about why every doctor in Amerika is so gung-ho to put everybody on SSRI's.  Not even my cynical ass would think that they're all on the take.  Most of them actually do want what's best for their patients.  Found this article which seems pretty solid.  You don't have to buy anybody's support.  You just have to buy enough time with them to get your foot in the door.  It's another fine example of a situation that causes a great deal of trouble that nobody wants to fix. 

https://www.scu.edu/ethics/publications/submitted/morreim/prescribing.html

Quote
When you ask doctors whether this kind of drug marketing is effective, the answer is always the same: "It doesn't influence me at all. They're not going to buy my soul with a laser pointer." In a recent syndicated newspaper column, one doctor commented, "I blame the pin-striped MBAs, who mistakenly believe that physicians are going to prescribe certain medicines because the company plies them with pens."
...
A recent letter in the Journal of the American Medical Association illustrates how effective drug advertising can be. It describes a patient who came into the hospital with an infected insect bite. The intern who first saw the patient first sensibly wanted to prescribe a nice, inexpensive penicillin, which is the drug of choice for a minor infection. But the resident overruled the intern and favored a more "modern" choice for this "severely" ill patient. He decided the patient had to have a brand-new antibiotic at $183 a day.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on April 25, 2011, 10:13:13 PM
I was curious about why every doctor in Amerika is so gung-ho to put everybody on SSRI's.  Not even my cynical ass would think that they're all on the take.  Most of them actually do want what's best for their patients.  Found this article which seems pretty solid.  You don't have to buy anybody's support.  You just have to buy enough time with them to get your foot in the door.  It's another fine example of a situation that causes a great deal of trouble that nobody wants to fix. 

https://www.scu.edu/ethics/publications/submitted/morreim/prescribing.html

Quote
When you ask doctors whether this kind of drug marketing is effective, the answer is always the same: "It doesn't influence me at all. They're not going to buy my soul with a laser pointer." In a recent syndicated newspaper column, one doctor commented, "I blame the pin-striped MBAs, who mistakenly believe that physicians are going to prescribe certain medicines because the company plies them with pens."
...
A recent letter in the Journal of the American Medical Association illustrates how effective drug advertising can be. It describes a patient who came into the hospital with an infected insect bite. The intern who first saw the patient first sensibly wanted to prescribe a nice, inexpensive penicillin, which is the drug of choice for a minor infection. But the resident overruled the intern and favored a more "modern" choice for this "severely" ill patient. He decided the patient had to have a brand-new antibiotic at $183 a day.

Just part of the current paradigm. Hard work and struggle is seen as bad while quick fixes are seen as ideal.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on April 28, 2011, 05:07:19 AM
https://www.advocate.com/News/Daily_News/2011/04/26/Robertson_Abortions_Promote_Lesbian_Equality/

Quote
Pat Robertson has come up with a new theory as to why liberals support abortion rights — it’s because they want to put lesbians and straight women on “a level playing field.”

On a recent episode of The 700 Club, discussing the battle over federal funding for Planned Parenthood, Robertson says President Obama supports the organization because of what the antigay minister calls the Left’s “culture of death.” Then Robertson says to cohost Terry Meeuwsen, “If a woman is a lesbian, what advantage does she have over a married woman? Or what deficiency does she have?”

Meeuwsen replies, “Well, she can’t have children” — ignoring the fact that lesbians can and do have children. Robertson says, “That’s exactly right. And so if these married women don’t have children, if they abort their babies, then that kind of puts them on a level playing field.”

lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on April 28, 2011, 06:13:06 AM
FDA Official: "Just Eat A Goddamn Vegetable":

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BOyebcrVWb4&feature=channel_video_title
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MetalMike06 on April 28, 2011, 08:08:41 PM
 :lol I remember seeing that a while back.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 02, 2011, 10:33:04 PM
The Bin Laden spending spree (https://money.cnn.com/2011/05/02/news/economy/security_spending/?section=money_latest)

Since America seems happy to pin 911 100% on OBL's shoulders, he also gets the credit* for obliterating the US economy.  From a strategic standpoint, it's absolutely phenomenal.  424 billion just on the Dept of Homeland Security.  Trillions of added dollars waging two wars.  Massive increases in intelligence expenditures.  A significant loss of freedom.  All of this a direct result of a fairly inexpensive operation.  Worse still, most of it was completely unnecessary.  Throwing money pointlessly at a problem to avoid the appearance of not throwing enough. 
 

*Partial credit, technically.  Having W in office helped him far more than he could ever have anticipated. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on May 04, 2011, 09:55:34 AM
https://www.wired.com/dangerroom/2011/05/blackwaters-new-ethics-chief-john-ashcroft/

lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: XJDenton on May 04, 2011, 09:56:43 AM
So I'm fairly certain my country is going to vote down election reform tomorrow. :/
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on May 05, 2011, 08:40:06 AM
Yep *sigh*
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on May 05, 2011, 10:54:17 AM
https://www.wired.com/dangerroom/2011/05/blackwaters-new-ethics-chief-john-ashcroft/

lol

Party on iron triangles :metal
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 05, 2011, 12:24:31 PM
Holy shit.  I thought that was an Onion article when I saw it yesterday.  They're actually serious!   :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: kári on May 07, 2011, 10:02:14 AM
Soo.. Would I dare to make a science/math related thread?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: tjanuranus on May 07, 2011, 09:09:22 PM
Soo.. Would I dare to make a science/math related thread?

yes please. BY the way kari. Thanks for the help with math. Not only did i get 100 on my final. I get 100 for the entire course!
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: kári on May 08, 2011, 04:48:07 AM
Oh man that's awesome! Glad I could be of help, feel free to contact me any time if you have more problems. :)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on May 11, 2011, 12:50:28 AM
Thought this was quite interesting:

(https://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/52645000/gif/_52645452_petrol_304_2.gif)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: kári on May 11, 2011, 05:33:02 PM
Yeah, you've got nothing to complain about.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on May 12, 2011, 09:02:15 AM
Besides the fact that people in the US have to drive way more because there's no public transportation.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on May 12, 2011, 09:02:57 AM
Get more public transport. It's that simple.

:v
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on May 12, 2011, 09:07:17 AM
:neverusethis:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MetalMike06 on May 12, 2011, 01:51:42 PM
Besides the fact that people in the US have to drive way more because there's no public transportation.

Not necessarily just because there's no public transportation, but we have a terrible sprawl problem. Our neighborhoods and houses are primarily set up to where you basically are forced to drive if you want to go anywhere. Everyone has to have big driveways, SUVs, and separation.

(https://static.flickr.com/3076/2910702880_a4d1acf345.jpg)

I doubt you really find many neighborhoods like this outside of North America. It's primarily why we consume so much more energy than the rest of the world, I can only assume.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 12, 2011, 02:15:41 PM
Part of the difference is that European towns were built around transportation hubs, and not the other way around.  Sprawl exists in other countries, and a big chunk of Europe lives outside of major cities, but they're all very close to a rail station.  Rural towns in America are close to interstates. 

The bigger concern is Americans tend to be fiercely independent.  Gosh darnit, I want to get to work at 9:00, not 8:52 which I'd have to do if I road the train!  People would rather sit in traffic on their own time than ride the train on somebody else's schedule. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: GuineaPig on May 12, 2011, 02:23:56 PM
People would return to trains if they were regular, cheap, and reliable.

But governments are interested more in investing in roads rather than cheaper, more reliable, and much more efficient rail travel.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: carl320 on May 16, 2011, 12:02:09 PM
People would return to trains if they were regular, cheap, and reliable.

But governments are interested more in investing in roads rather than cheaper, more reliable, and much more efficient rail travel.

This.  But since the US has gone so long without investing so much as a dime in light rail, the initial investment is tremendous.  It makes more sense to keep up existing road and rail than to build new rail systems from scratch.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: GuineaPig on May 17, 2011, 12:36:00 PM
People would return to trains if they were regular, cheap, and reliable.

But governments are interested more in investing in roads rather than cheaper, more reliable, and much more efficient rail travel.

This.  But since the US has gone so long without investing so much as a dime in light rail, the initial investment is tremendous.  It makes more sense to keep up existing road and rail than to build new rail systems from scratch.

You'd be surprised.  It costs less per passenger capacity/hour to build a conventional rail line (not even light rail, which is cheaper) than it is to build a highway.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on May 18, 2011, 03:03:55 AM
Relevant to a lot of the discussions that happen in P/R: https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/fairfax-teacher-sean-lanigan-still-suffering-from-false-molestation-allegations/2011/03/04/AFVwhh3G_story.html
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 18, 2011, 09:02:58 AM
Relevant to a lot of the discussions that happen in P/R: https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/fairfax-teacher-sean-lanigan-still-suffering-from-false-molestation-allegations/2011/03/04/AFVwhh3G_story.html
Gotta keep the bonfires burning.  That's pretty fucked up.  It's also why I can't imagine anybody wanting to be a teacher.  Easy for me since I hate kids, but somebody who actually likes them and wants to teach them is putting himself at extraordinary risk.  It's just not worth it in this climate.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AndyDT on May 19, 2011, 07:05:30 AM
Besides the fact that people in the US have to drive way more because there's no public transportation.

Not necessarily just because there's no public transportation, but we have a terrible sprawl problem. Our neighborhoods and houses are primarily set up to where you basically are forced to drive if you want to go anywhere. Everyone has to have big driveways, SUVs, and separation.

(https://static.flickr.com/3076/2910702880_a4d1acf345.jpg)

I doubt you really find many neighborhoods like this outside of North America. It's primarily why we consume so much more energy than the rest of the world, I can only assume.
What about buses?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: GuineaPig on May 19, 2011, 12:38:21 PM
I'm about to head home for a long weekend.  I'm glad I live within a 20 minute walk of a train station, that's well connected to the other parts of the city by public transport.  Hell, of that 20 minutes, only 10 of it need to be above ground, because the city was planned with a little foresight.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: chknptpie on May 19, 2011, 01:03:22 PM

What about buses?

According to my cities local bus trip planner, for me to take a bus from home to work it would take 40 minutes to an hour and 5 minutes depending on the route and if the buses are on schedule. Add in the additional 10-15 minute walk to the closest bus stops and we're looking at waking up at 4am to make it to work at 7am. It takes me 10 minutes to drive there as its only 6 miles...
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 19, 2011, 03:06:10 PM

What about buses?

According to my cities local bus trip planner, for me to take a bus from home to work it would take 40 minutes to an hour and 5 minutes depending on the route and if the buses are on schedule. Add in the additional 10-15 minute walk to the closest bus stops and we're looking at waking up at 4am to make it to work at 7am. It takes me 10 minutes to drive there as its only 6 miles...
Same here.  It's a 15 minute drive for me, but it'd take me either 3 buses and 50+ minutes or two trains, 35 minutes and a couple miles hoofing it.  And frankly, this ain't Paris.  Riding around on the Metro might be nifty as a new experience, but DART's a real bummer. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MetalMike06 on May 20, 2011, 12:40:30 AM
That's the thing - our cities are built around automobile transportation. Why would people take the train when there are giant parking lots to accommodate them everywhere they go?

Anywho, this guy does some fascinating talks on this, I've read one of his books as well. If you have time check out a few of these:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rwd4Lq0Xvgc
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 20, 2011, 07:49:11 AM
Liberals
(https://jasonlaning.net/ffs/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/another-successful-protest.jpg)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: GuineaPig on May 20, 2011, 07:49:54 AM
More like 2-party system.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 24, 2011, 09:53:49 PM
https://www.nytimes.com/2011/05/25/nyregion/democrat-capture-house-seat-in-special-election.html

I really don't see how candidates haven't learned the simplest rule of them all by now.  DON'T FUCK WITH MEDICARE!  I mean, who doesn't know this already?

Quote
Some Republicans suggested that it would be oversimplifying to attribute the results to the Medicare issue, saying that Ms. Corwin proved a less nimble and ultimately less appealing candidate than Ms. Hochul, who campaigned energetically and with great focus.

So, when Medicare erupted in the race, Ms. Corwin, a wealthy former Wall Street analyst, was knocked off balance and struggled to respond.

In the closing hours of the race, Ms. Corwin admitted as much, saying about her rival’s attacks: “When she started making these comments, I thought, ‘This is so outrageous no one would ever believe it.’ Apparently some people did.”

I suppose a second but also important rule would be to not come off like an arrogant, condescending cunt. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nick on May 25, 2011, 02:23:47 PM
However much it will pain me to no longer be able to vote in a major primary due to Pennsylvania's horrid closed primary system, after the 2012 April primary I will be leaving the Republican party.

I left the party in spirit many many years ago but stayed on paper to be able to vote. The last straw was seeing Newt say a few things that actually sounded close to true conservative principles and get mercilessly attacked for them.

Thinking about it I really started to become focused on politics around 2002/2003, and though I don't necessarily agree with him as a politician now, in my formative years I very much had an appreciation for what Newt accomplished in the 90's. Then the opposite happened to what had happened under Bush. With Newt and Clinton both sides agreed to reduce, Republicans on defense and Democrats on social programs. To see Newt show a glimpse into those principles and be attacked by Republicans is disgusting. It was also in those years that I still had hope for Bush, he had not come close to being the worst president since FDR at that point. For many years the Republican actions of the 90's and the first two years or Bush helped keep me in the party, but as the Iraq war was launched and Bush's domestic and foreign policies quickly grew into everything I hate I saw the party transform... I stayed on hoping for a change of course, but it seems obvious to me now that will not likely happen.

I oppose one party on principles and the other on actions, and like so many I have felt for years there are so few in Washington who even come close to representing my beliefs and principles.

I'll be spending the next year deciding whether to go full independent or join the Libertarian party.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MetalMike06 on May 25, 2011, 03:40:06 PM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WYJLZLitq_o&feature=feedu

Both sides of the establishment continue to show their true colors.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 25, 2011, 04:37:30 PM
Indeed.  Here's Rand Paul's speech a couple of hours earlier.

Rand Paul Hates America (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MXLGyOdE_tc&feature=related)

It's a shame that nobody will listen to him.  Sadly, for all of the bravado Americans like to spew, we really have become a nation of pussies. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Quadrochosis on May 25, 2011, 04:41:17 PM
Nick, that is a great post that very accurately describes a similar situation I went through a few years back.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MetalMike06 on May 25, 2011, 09:48:12 PM
Indeed.  Here's Rand Paul's speech a couple of hours earlier.

Rand Paul Hates America (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MXLGyOdE_tc&feature=related)

It's a shame that nobody will listen to him.  Sadly, for all of the bravado Americans like to spew, we really have become a nation of pussies. 

Rand continued to verbally bitch slap Reid (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rzjYUmi5_IQ&feature=feedu) in reply.

It's really sad because arguably, he represents popular opinion on this issue, but nobody knows any better to elect better reps or make their voice heard. It's all made me really cynical over the past year or so. Will writing to my neocon rep really change things? I remember throughout the past few years I had gotten in the habit of sending emails to senators and reps just to get a mailed letter back basically stating the position I already knew they'd take. The more and more I give a shit about what's happening, the more I realize there's nobody that really represents me.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 25, 2011, 09:59:47 PM
Indeed.  Here's Rand Paul's speech a couple of hours earlier.

Rand Paul Hates America (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MXLGyOdE_tc&feature=related)

It's a shame that nobody will listen to him.  Sadly, for all of the bravado Americans like to spew, we really have become a nation of pussies. 

Rand continued to verbally bitch slap Reid (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rzjYUmi5_IQ&feature=feedu) in reply.

It's really sad because arguably, he represents popular opinion on this issue, but nobody knows any better to elect better reps or make their voice heard. It's all made me really cynical over the past year or so. Will writing to my neocon rep really change things? I remember throughout the past few years I had gotten in the habit of sending emails to senators and reps just to get a mailed letter back basically stating the position I already knew they'd take. The more and more I give a shit about what's happening, the more I realize there's nobody that really represents me.

A most horrific irony, if I were to write my congressman and tell him that I was actually more afraid of the government than of terrorists, I'd find myself very much under their scrutiny via the very provisions that I'm writing to complain about.  I think I'll pass. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nick on May 26, 2011, 09:45:57 PM
While I'm generally not a fan of Rand I certainly appreciate what he has done on this issue.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MetalMike06 on May 27, 2011, 10:11:34 AM
Unfortunately, his efforts failed (https://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2011/05/26/ap/congress/main20066458.shtml), as I expected.

*throws hands in air*

I give up.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 27, 2011, 10:14:11 AM
Yeah, not surprising.  What frightens me is that the only real debate going on is whether or not to make this nonsense permanent.

Personally, I preferred when government goons were jack-booted thugs, rather than our guardian angel. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MetalMike06 on May 27, 2011, 11:16:09 AM
I posted this link on my facebook, and one of my Obama-supporter acquaintances messaged me saying "it's not his fault" and that "there's merit to it." Really? Good God. A lot of people I know who voted for him at least give him some criticism in areas like this, but then there are legions of people like this guy who justify every continuation of his predecessor. I expected it but damn it pisses me off if I think about it too much.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: hefdaddy42 on May 28, 2011, 06:34:53 AM
Here are four religious truths that we can all count on:

1 Muslims do not recognize Jews as God's chosen people

2 Jews do not recognize Jesus as the Messiah.

3. Protestants do not recognize the Pope as the leader of the Christian World.

4. Baptists and Methodists do not recognize each other at the liquor store.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on May 30, 2011, 06:31:13 PM
:lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on May 30, 2011, 08:19:09 PM
Yeah, not surprising.  What frightens me is that the only real debate going on is whether or not to make this nonsense permanent.

Personally, I preferred when government goons were jack-booted thugs, rather than our guardian angel. 

If people get angry enough, we could end up with a genuine revolution on our hands.  I have no idea yet if that's a good thing or not, but it's looking more and more likely with each passing day.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on May 31, 2011, 04:24:02 AM
Yeah, not surprising.  What frightens me is that the only real debate going on is whether or not to make this nonsense permanent.

Personally, I preferred when government goons were jack-booted thugs, rather than our guardian angel. 

If people get angry enough, we could end up with a genuine revolution on our hands.  I have no idea yet if that's a good thing or not, but it's looking more and more likely with each passing day.

I have a hard time believing it will come to that.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on May 31, 2011, 06:39:16 AM
Well, national trust of the government is sinking into the toilet.  It's getting to a point where it's almost as low if not as low as during the Vietnam War, and I've heard the stories about those days.

In an unrelated note, Thunderdome!  Westboro Baptist Church vs. the Ku Klux Klan!

https://www.cnn.com/2011/US/05/30/arlington.cemetery.protesters/index.html?hpt=T2
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 31, 2011, 08:58:28 AM
Yeah, not surprising.  What frightens me is that the only real debate going on is whether or not to make this nonsense permanent.

Personally, I preferred when government goons were jack-booted thugs, rather than our guardian angel. 

If people get angry enough, we could end up with a genuine revolution on our hands.  I have no idea yet if that's a good thing or not, but it's looking more and more likely with each passing day.

I have a hard time believing it will come to that.
Revolution is out of the question.  People like to bitch and moan about how bad things are, but they're still convinced that this is the greatest country there is.  I don't see them challenging that belief by taking on the government.  Plus, we're to busy fighting amongst ourselves.  As long as everybody thinks that the real enemies are Republicans or Democrats, nobody's paying much attention to The Man. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on May 31, 2011, 09:02:36 AM
I mean truth be told, the Democrats do have a better track record for doing things the people demand of them.  They may *not* do certain things, but they rarely do something *contrary* to what the people want (the Patriot Act being one of those confounding, rare few).
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 31, 2011, 11:25:05 AM
Epic, Fox may not be as bad as people who like liberal networks pretend, but two wrongs doesn't make a right. Sure, Fox is no worse than MSNBC. But both networks are complete shams as news networks and if the health of our government is dependent partly on having a strong news media (as any democracy should) than a quick look at the big names, Fox included, should explain why we're stuck with what we're stuck with now.
Because Americans aren't interested in news.  They're interested in hearing someone pseudo-authoritative reinforce their existing beliefs. 


Fox News coverage is fine.

The problem is, 70 percent of what you seen on Fox News is actually not news, but commentary. And Epic View's right, that all the competitor "news" networks are the same.
Yeah, not so much.  I read a ton of FOX "news" articles everyday, and their journalism is just as biased as their commentary; just a different method of presentation. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on May 31, 2011, 12:07:24 PM
I'll wait for FOX to locate Egypt correctly on a map of the Mediterranean before relying on them for news.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Perpetual Change on May 31, 2011, 07:53:29 PM
Yeah, not so much.  I read a ton of FOX "news" articles everyday, and their journalism is just as biased as their commentary; just a different method of presentation. 

And other news sources don't? Presentation is fair game. There's no such thing as objective news, but to say that their news is just as bad as their commentary is just wrong.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 31, 2011, 08:34:32 PM
Yeah, not so much.  I read a ton of FOX "news" articles everyday, and their journalism is just as biased as their commentary; just a different method of presentation. 

And other news sources don't? Presentation is fair game. There's no such thing as objective news, but to say that their news is just as bad as their commentary is just wrong.
I didn't say anything about other news agencies.  I said that FOX's journalism is no different than their commentary and I stand by that. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Perpetual Change on May 31, 2011, 08:45:30 PM
Let's see. On the Fox news site front page right now, we have:

1. A headline about an E. Coli outbreak in Europe.
2. An article about the cost of war spending in Afgahnistan
3. Something about Blagojevich's trial.
4. An article about new laws that might ban fourth of July fireworks.

I don't know what Bill'O talked about tonight, but I doubt it was anything like that. I skimmed the article about the Afghan war, too, which had the greatest potential for some political bias. I didn't notice anything off-color. So yeah, I really don't know what people are getting all up in arms about. It's just a shame that the "news" is shoved to time slots when people are working and the commentary gets the prime time slots.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 31, 2011, 08:57:11 PM
Same four I got, but the fifth headline was High Class:  The Governments Preferred Style of Ride,  subtitled "'Limousine Liberals' Report Shows Government Limo Fleet Swelling, "  about the increase in limousines purchased during the Obama administration (with a small mention that the purchasing actually began at the end of the Bush administration).   And the fireworks article was how the Fourth of July is coming under attack by tree-hugging California judges.  Personally,  I wouldn't consider a San Diego ordinance to be national news, but some things are just too good to pass up. 

Personally, I'd bet a fiver that the San Diego thing was mentioned by O'Reilly--I doubt he'd pass up an opportunity to call Cali judges pinheads. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Perpetual Change on May 31, 2011, 09:04:15 PM
I don't have that fifth headline. Where are you seeing that?

It's not great, but I don't see what the fuss is about. I have no love for Fox news, but I also don't see the point in demonizing it, especially when those who do seem to be missing out on the much bigger problem.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 31, 2011, 09:14:32 PM
My desktop feed is set to show the top five headlines.
Quote
House Rejects Debt Ceiling Increase
U.S. Lawmakers Debate Costs of Afghanistan War
Blago on Trial: Senate Seat Deal 'Didn't Appeal' to Him
Court Ruling JeopardizesFourth of July Celebration
High-Class: Government's Preferred Style of Ride

I don't really have a problem with people saying they're no different than the other outlets.  I get annoyed when people say that they're objective or spout that fair and balanced nonsense.  Those are the people who think that every other news source is the liberal media because they consider FOX the center of the scale. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Perpetual Change on May 31, 2011, 09:19:26 PM
Who said anything about them being objective or fair and balanced? They're not, but how they actually present their news IS fair game.

My biggest issue is with the commentary.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on June 01, 2011, 08:57:36 AM
Who said anything about them being objective or fair and balanced? They're not, but how they actually present their news IS fair game.

My biggest issue is with the commentary.

EV, PraXis, and Powerslave, who else?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Perpetual Change on June 01, 2011, 09:49:31 AM
Well fuck me. Who said I was willing to go anywhere near that  :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on June 02, 2011, 07:12:48 AM
We're doomed.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on June 02, 2011, 02:11:37 PM
Quote from: https://thinkprogress.org/politics/2011/05/31/232182/rand-paul-criminalize-speech/
PAUL: I’m not for profiling people on the color of their skin, or on their religion, but I would take into account where they’ve been traveling and perhaps, you might have to indirectly take into account whether or not they’ve been going to radical political speeches by religious leaders. It wouldn’t be that they are Islamic. But if someone is attending speeches from someone who is promoting the violent overthrow of our government, that’s really an offense that we should be going after — they should be deported or put in prison.

Wait what? I was under the impression Rand Paul was a libertarian.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on June 02, 2011, 03:53:45 PM
And this is why I left the libertarian camp. :loser:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on June 04, 2011, 03:50:56 PM
I think someone who notify Netenyahu that last time Israel had pre 67 borders, they defeated every arab neighboring country within 6 days.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on June 04, 2011, 07:54:19 PM
Adami, is your universal translator broken? :p
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on June 04, 2011, 09:11:13 PM
America is becoming Pakistan apparently, and the guy makes a good argument for it:

https://www.nytimes.com/2011/06/05/opinion/05kristof.html
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on June 04, 2011, 09:52:02 PM
Adami, is your universal translator broken? :p

My point still stands, poor typing and all.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on June 06, 2011, 11:00:52 AM
Does anyone remember the days when every P/R thread WASN'T about Obama being the antichrist?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on June 06, 2011, 11:09:40 AM
Ah yes, back in the day when Disappear still posted and we could all agree that Bush was the antichrist. :biggrin:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on June 06, 2011, 11:12:58 AM
Ah yes, back in the day when Disappear still posted and we could all agree that Bush was the antichrist. :biggrin:

Oh god I miss Disappear and his Hezbollah loving ways.


EDIT: But seriously, it's getting impossible to post in P/R these days since everything just turns into a debate with Epicview about either Obama or the reliability of news agencies.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on June 06, 2011, 11:25:36 AM
And I'm sure that if he were here in older days he'd have been defending Bush to the point of insanity.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: PlaysLikeMyung on June 06, 2011, 11:26:54 AM
I miss dislolppear
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on June 06, 2011, 11:27:11 AM
And I'm sure that if he were here in older days he'd have been defending Bush to the point of insanity.

Would have? He still is!
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on June 06, 2011, 04:30:17 PM
EDIT: But seriously, it's getting impossible to post in P/R these days since everything just turns into a debate with Epicview about either Obama or the reliability of news agencies.
Indeed. I used to enjoy reading P&R. Now, due to EPICVIEW, I just find it frustrating. He just ruins every thread he goes into.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: eric42434224 on June 06, 2011, 04:36:59 PM
EDIT: But seriously, it's getting impossible to post in P/R these days since everything just turns into a debate with Epicview about either Obama or the reliability of news agencies.
Indeed. I used to enjoy reading P&R. Now, due to EPICVIEW, I just find it frustrating. He just ruins every thread he goes into.

+1 on both quotes.

He PMed me apologizing that he didnt get a chance to answer my question to him (in the gas thread)
I told him he is more than welcome to answer it in PM.
Still waiting........
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on June 07, 2011, 05:33:48 PM
https://www.buzzfeed.com/mjs538/man-tattoos-leviticus-1822-that-forbids-homosexua
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on June 07, 2011, 08:22:33 PM
https://www.buzzfeed.com/mjs538/man-tattoos-leviticus-1822-that-forbids-homosexua
:rollin
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on June 08, 2011, 11:58:33 AM
I got a PM from EV declaring his departure from P/R.  What was that all about?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on June 08, 2011, 01:14:25 PM
I got a PM from EV declaring his departure from P/R.  What was that all about?
He got tired of being banned for reasons concerning his style rather than any actual violations of the rules. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on June 08, 2011, 01:25:01 PM
He was banned?  From P/R?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on June 08, 2011, 01:40:24 PM
He was banned?  From P/R?
Yeah, this was the third time, I think. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: GuineaPig on June 08, 2011, 03:10:14 PM
I'm going to start another account, named weivcipE, and have it spout nothing but extreme left-wing rhetoric.  It'll be like someone pushed him off one side and he came around on the other.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: eric42434224 on June 08, 2011, 03:24:16 PM
We are going at it in PM now.  He says he is going to post the entire PM conversation in the thread when he is unbanned.
It should be interesting.

He made a statement in the "gas" thread.
I ask for sources he used to back it up.
He posts articles and his own opinions that, guess what...dont show any causation at all.
Just lots of marginally related opinion pieces, and some articles speculating alot.
He just cant see the difference between actual information showing causation and opinion/speculation.
He doesnt understand why I dont see it, and then pushes me to prove him wrong.
Seriously, it is the same EXACT formula as any of his other threads.
He just doesnt get it, and will not change.
I think I may have to seriously make a point to completely avoid any threads he posts in.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on June 08, 2011, 03:41:29 PM
I think I may have to seriously make a point to completely avoid any threads he posts in.

Which will limit your options considerably since he posts in almost every P/R thread AFAIK.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: eric42434224 on June 08, 2011, 03:56:44 PM
I think I may have to seriously make a point to completely avoid any threads he posts in.

Which will limit your options considerably since he posts in almost every P/R thread AFAIK.

And turns them all into Obamaisthedevil
I know....it makes P/R markedly less enjoyable.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on June 09, 2011, 03:35:24 PM
Quote from: https://thinkprogress.org/politics/2011/05/31/232182/rand-paul-criminalize-speech/
PAUL: I’m not for profiling people on the color of their skin, or on their religion, but I would take into account where they’ve been traveling and perhaps, you might have to indirectly take into account whether or not they’ve been going to radical political speeches by religious leaders. It wouldn’t be that they are Islamic. But if someone is attending speeches from someone who is promoting the violent overthrow of our government, that’s really an offense that we should be going after — they should be deported or put in prison.

Wait what? I was under the impression Rand Paul was a libertarian.
I think he's a Constitutionalist which is not the same thing as a libertarian.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on June 11, 2011, 12:35:12 PM
Well, Colbert found video showing him at a gun convention, where performers advocated the violent overthrow of the government on stage.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on June 11, 2011, 03:03:57 PM
I wish the first and fourth amendments had half the support gun lobby gets.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: juice on June 11, 2011, 09:35:59 PM
So why was Epicview banned from P/R?  It didn't seem to me like he broke any rules.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on June 12, 2011, 12:51:36 AM
So why was Epicview banned from P/R?  It didn't seem to me like he broke any rules.

I think it was just his general posting style, which caused an extreme lack of actual discussion.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on June 13, 2011, 03:26:36 PM
https://laststatements.tumblr.com/

A blog of the last statements of prisoners who were executed. It's especially interesting to hear their statements prior to actually knowing what their crime was (there's a link at the bottom of each post with the full info).
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on June 14, 2011, 12:08:12 PM
Eh, I think I'm done with P/R for a while, at least until it becomes more than screaming matches about Obama or something.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: eric42434224 on June 14, 2011, 03:49:42 PM
Eh, I think I'm done with P/R for a whole, at least until it becomes more than screaming matches about Obama or something.

All of a sudden we are bombarded with Odinga rants.  What changed in P/R today?  Hmmmm.....

EDIT...and now back on the Birth Certificate.  Why god....why?   :facepalm:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on June 14, 2011, 05:16:59 PM
Eh, I think I'm done with P/R for a whole, at least until it becomes more than screaming matches about Obama or something.

All of a sudden we are bombarded with Odinga rants.  What changed in P/R today?  Hmmmm.....

EDIT...and now back on the Birth Certificate.  Why god....why?   :facepalm:

I'll post here in the chat thread, and if someone has a legitimate question in the Israel thread, I'll help out there. But aside from that this place has turned to crap recently.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on June 14, 2011, 05:26:05 PM
Is EV back?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on June 14, 2011, 05:28:11 PM
Is EV back?

You need to ask? Just read any of the top 5 threads.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: eric42434224 on June 14, 2011, 05:34:45 PM
Is EV back?

You need to ask? Just read any of the top 5 threads.

Odinga, Birth Certificate, etc.
He obviously didnt learn anything during his week off.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on June 14, 2011, 09:46:06 PM
Remember the time we had a thread that wasn't about Obama?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Riceball on June 14, 2011, 10:44:37 PM
I've only been here for six months or so, and I'm finding myself looking in here a lot less because of all of the partisan dribble that goes on. Lots of smart people in P/R, shame it all gets covered up in slanging matches and one-ups...
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on June 14, 2011, 10:50:26 PM
(https://www.truthdig.com/images/eartothegrounduploads/lk061211dAPR-500.jpg)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: chknptpie on June 14, 2011, 10:56:05 PM
I've only been here for six months or so, and I'm finding myself looking in here a lot less because of all of the partisan dribble that goes on. Lots of smart people in P/R, shame it all gets covered up in slanging matches and one-ups...

agreed.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on June 15, 2011, 04:43:33 AM
It seems like P/R goes through phases with its own version of Kevin Moore. A few years back every thread devolved into a free market vs. government argument, and now every thread devolves into Obama.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on June 15, 2011, 06:07:50 AM
Interesting Op-Ed in the times about whistle-blower protections then and now.

https://www.nytimes.com/2011/06/13/opinion/13kohn.html?_r=1
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on June 15, 2011, 10:47:51 AM
https://www.thedailyshow.com/watch/tue-june-14-2011/indecision-2012---the-awakening

Hah.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on June 16, 2011, 12:21:19 PM
I noticed on the first page alone we have 5 threads dedicated to Obama, including the thread with the phrase "EVERYTHING OBAMA" in it.

And another 4-5 that have turned into threads about Obama.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on June 16, 2011, 12:33:35 PM
I noticed on the first page alone we have 5 threads dedicated to Obama, including the thread with the phrase "EVERYTHING OBAMA" in it.

And another 4-5 that have turned into threads about Obama.
Yeah, but today they're actually pretty reasonable and the discussion has been alright.  Personally, I'd much rather see discussion of the president than 5 threads parsing the Vulgate of St. Jerome or "how can I become more humble and meek". 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on June 16, 2011, 12:34:46 PM
I noticed on the first page alone we have 5 threads dedicated to Obama, including the thread with the phrase "EVERYTHING OBAMA" in it.

And another 4-5 that have turned into threads about Obama.
Yeah, but today they're actually pretty reasonable and the discussion has been alright.  Personally, I'd much rather see discussion of the president than 5 threads parsing the Vulgate of St. Jerome or "how can I become more humble and meek". 

That's fine, but that's 9-10 threads about him. Including one that clearly states "everything obama".
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on June 16, 2011, 12:47:53 PM
Even in a thread about everything Obama, it's hard to carry on 5 different discsussions at the same time. It just get's confusing.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on June 16, 2011, 12:50:33 PM
Even in a thread about everything Obama, it's hard to carry on 5 different discsussions at the same time. It just get's confusing.

But there aren't 5 different discussions, it's 1 discussion with 5 different sets of details.


Some people: Obama isn't the devil.
EV, Tick, Praxis and others: Obama is the devil.
People who don't care: Bush is worse.


That's it. And it always results in each side saying that the argument is pointless, but then somehow continuing for several pages. How many times have people said "Well this isn't worth arguing with you" or something along those lines? Hell, I'm pretty sure Tick actually retired from the forum 4-5 times in the past week or so.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on June 16, 2011, 12:56:25 PM

That's it. And it always results in each side saying that the argument is pointless, but then somehow continuing for several pages. How many times have people said "Well this isn't worth arguing with you" or something along those lines? Hell, I'm pretty sure Tick actually retired from the forum 4-5 times in the past week or so.
As I said a couple of weeks ago, most discussions in this forum won't accomplish much.  Nobody's going to convince EV that Obama isn't the Antichrist,  and nobody's going to convince Bosk that there is no God.  That doesn't make those discussions pointless.  Often time tangents arise that are interesting to discuss. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on June 16, 2011, 12:58:51 PM
I guess if you're really into American politics, then yea, this place may on occasion bring up a short lived tangent or two, but I tend to think there's a lot more to politics and religion than simply Obama and Jesus, respectively.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on June 16, 2011, 01:35:30 PM
To add to that, there wouldn't be anything wrong with continued discussion if it didn't always end up in the same freaking place every freaking time.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on June 16, 2011, 09:09:20 PM
I have inadvertently found what I can only call a horrifyingly misinformed left-wing radical: https://www.inthe00s.com/index.php?topic=43945.msg2706851#msg2706851
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on June 23, 2011, 03:02:11 PM
More fuel for the fire: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-usmvYOPfco
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on June 23, 2011, 05:26:34 PM
More fuel for the fire: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-usmvYOPfco
Well that was civilized.

Truth be told, that's actually the plan for both parties since either way we're beholden to insurance companies to determine who can get treatment and how much they can receive.  Personally,  I'm pretty confident that if McCain had been elected, we'd be discussing McCaincare, and it would look identical. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on June 23, 2011, 05:46:56 PM
That's kind of the irony of it all: just as '08 elections were rolling around, Obamacare to be was proposed in the House by Republicans, not Democrats. The only reason they're shitting on it now is because Obama took their obscure bill and made it the centerpiece of his early agenda.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: TheVoxyn on June 25, 2011, 10:55:09 AM
Watching a documentary about the Tea Party in the US. Obama would still be right wing here, so imagine how right wing the tea party seems for me  :-X.



edit: I'm glad I never have to see someone like Glenn Beck on TV here.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: GuineaPig on June 25, 2011, 12:13:52 PM
You do have Wilders.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: TheVoxyn on June 25, 2011, 12:22:05 PM
You do have Wilders.
Yep, but he doesn't have a tv show and on most points he isn't as right wing as the tea party seems to be. And that's saying a lot.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on June 28, 2011, 05:37:53 PM
I guess that back in the Cold War era, calling someone left-wing was today's equivalent to right-wing.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: GuineaPig on June 28, 2011, 08:19:40 PM
Not really.  The former accusation implied treason.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on June 28, 2011, 08:22:35 PM
Ahhh yes, back in the day when if you suggested the war on Communism was the least bit overwrought or believed the American capitalist system could use just a smidge of welfare, THEN YOU WERE A PINKO! :yarr
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: YtseBitsySpider on June 29, 2011, 08:35:04 AM
I golfed and had dinner with G.Gordon Liddy's nephew last night. This man was in Washington at the time the "shit" hit the fan(and had some very interesting details). Naturally once he told people who he was a big Nixon discussion ensued.
Fascinating time in American history.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on June 30, 2011, 10:22:41 AM
https://www.theonion.com/articles/kansas-outlaws-practice-of-evolution,2098/

 :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on July 06, 2011, 08:32:17 AM
Wow. I don't really know what The Patriot Act actually allows the US government to do but I read this today:

Quote
Last week, Microsoft quietly confirmed that cloud data stored on its European servers can still be handed over to American investigators -- and the EU is none too pleased about it. As it turns out, the revelation has shed new light on a fundamental conflict between US law and the EU's Data Protection Directive -- an edict requiring that companies notify consumers whenever sharing their personal information. The bi-lateral Safe Harbor agreement calls for similarly strict protocol, but under the Patriot Act (which trumps all else), companies like Microsoft could be forced to hand over private data without informing targeted individuals. In response, some members of the European Parliament are calling upon legislators to take action and to implement safeguards that can't be overridden by third-party governments. It remains to be seen whether or not this leads to any new laws or transatlantic tensions, but if we've learned anything, it's that Europeans take their clouds very seriously.

And it's pretty shocking.

Source:

https://www.engadget.com/2011/07/06/microsofts-patriot-act-admission-has-the-eu-up-in-arms/
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on July 09, 2011, 02:50:12 PM
So I just found out that Iranian passports say "not valid in Israel" on them. I was curious if this was Iran's rule?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on July 09, 2011, 02:52:50 PM
I would think so, given that Iranian foreign policy and rhetoric is very plainly anti-Israel. And I'm sure the Israeli government isn't complaining.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on July 09, 2011, 02:56:46 PM
I would think so, given that Iranian foreign policy and rhetoric is very plainly anti-Israel. And I'm sure the Israeli government isn't complaining.


Well I'm just trying to make sense of the whole passport situation there, it's really confusing and hard to find definitive information on. I know if you have an Israeli passport, or a stamp entering or exiting from Israel, you can't go to like most Arab countries and a lot of African countries. I also know that Israel has no rule about passport stamps, meaning they'll let people in who have been to any country, although they may face some intense questioning upon arrival. However, several countries have their passports state that it isn't valid in Israel. It just seems weird that a country would actually legally ban its own citizens from entering Israel. I mean, Iranians can go to Israel.......I'm just curious what the passport situation is then, are they still Iranian citizens in Israel since their passport is apparently deemed ineffective by the Iranian government? Also, I dunno..........it's just super confusing. I'm not sure any other countries passports actually have a disclaimer in them about not being allowed into any other country.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on July 09, 2011, 03:23:10 PM
A few minutes of research suggests that Iranians probably shouldn't even bother trying to travel anywhere.  That sucks.  

It does appear that Israel recognizes Iranian passports as valid, though (even though Iranians claim them to be invalid), since they bother to stamp them.  It also appears that on your return, the Iranians will unperson you almost immediately because of that stamp.  

Edit:  as for the reason,  I suspect it's symbolic of their non-recognition of Israeli statehood.  What the disclaimer actually says is "not valid for entry into occupied Palestine." 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on July 09, 2011, 03:26:19 PM
A few minutes of research suggests that Iranians probably shouldn't even bother trying to travel anywhere.  That sucks. 

It does appear that Israel recognizes Iranian passports as valid, though (even though Iranians claim them to be invalid), since they bother to stamp them.  It also appears that on your return, the Iranians will unperson you almost immediately because of that stamp. 

Yes, it's messed up. I have a friend from Dubai, she said if she goes to Israel on her UAE passport, Dubai won't let her back in.



But as far as I know UAE has nothing on their passport about it being invalid in Israel (or occupied Palestine, as they actually say). It just seems weird countries would make such an extreme law.

However I wasn't aware the Iranian passports aren't allowed in Egypt or Jordan. Not sure how enforced that rule is, but it seems strange.


Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on July 09, 2011, 03:29:17 PM
There's a list of travel requirements for Iranian citizens on WikiP.  Only a handful of countries will let you in without a visa (or give you one when you arrive).  Almost everybody wants you to get a visa in advance, and generally they'll just deny you. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on July 09, 2011, 03:31:00 PM
There's a list of travel requirements for Iranian citizens on WikiP.  Only a handful of countries will let you in without a visa (or give you one when you arrive).  Almost everybody wants you to get a visa in advance, and generally they'll just deny you. 

I'm mostly curious about the whole "not valid in occupied Palestine" deal. Iran isn't the only country who has that.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on July 10, 2011, 09:31:18 AM
I thought this article was interesting, have at it: https://www.nytimes.com/2011/07/10/business/the-unemployed-somehow-became-invisible.html
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on July 14, 2011, 03:49:24 PM
Austrian Man Wins Right to Wear Pasta Strainer in License Photo (https://www.npr.org/blogs/thetwo-way/2011/07/13/137824732/austrian-man-wins-right-to-wear-pasta-strainer-in-license-photo?ps=cprs)

Quote
In Austria one of the strangest fights for religious freedom has come to an end: Niko Alm, a self-described "Pastafarian," fought for three years for the right to wear a pasta strainer on his head in his driver's license photo.

His argument? Alm claimed he belonged to the Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster and wearing the strainer was part of his religion.

Really, it only amuses me because the people who made him undergo psychiatric counseling will probably tell you that angels are real and that Jesus walked on the water. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on July 14, 2011, 06:40:49 PM
 :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on July 14, 2011, 08:18:42 PM
 :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: chknptpie on July 14, 2011, 10:25:49 PM
RAmen!
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on July 15, 2011, 06:42:56 AM
Really, it only amuses me because the people who made him undergo psychiatric counseling will probably tell you that angels are real and that Jesus walked on the water. 

True dat.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on July 15, 2011, 07:26:14 PM
BUT WHAT ABOUT THE CHILDREN?!

https://www.news9.com/story/15084225/woman-mistaken-for-casey-anthony-attacked
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on July 16, 2011, 08:36:02 AM
Wasn't there a link somewhere around here calculating how much more likely you were to be killed by a cop than by a terrorist attack?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on July 16, 2011, 10:21:35 AM
Wasn't there a link somewhere around here calculating how much more likely you were to be killed by a cop than by a terrorist attack?
Check Sceavo's police state thread.  I think it was 9x.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on July 19, 2011, 09:38:44 AM
(https://24.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_loedctFJoL1qkt6yoo1_500.png)

Wow at the second comment he/she made...
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MasterShakezula on July 19, 2011, 09:41:12 AM
Clearly, the only thing this guy lacks more than tolerance for gay marriage is the ability to properly use figurative language. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on July 19, 2011, 10:03:47 AM
Seriously.  Not to mention he/she might be wrong, because I don't remember where I read it, but I don't think AIDS is increasing anymore.  I think it may have stabilized recently or something, due to advancements in HIV treatment.

It's great though that this Pope is making a point of being on the right side of history.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MasterShakezula on July 19, 2011, 10:09:33 AM
Seriously.  Not to mention he/she might be wrong, because I don't remember where I read it, but I don't think AIDS is increasing anymore.  I think it may have stabilized recently or something, due to advancements in HIV treatment.

It's great though that this Pope is making a point of being on the right side of history.

You're right, likely; as of 2009, anyways, the rate of HIV possessors is on the downturn, and it's been pretty stable as of the last few years.

Here's the chart I found regarding this:

(https://www.avert.org/media/content/graphs/GlobalGraph.jpg)

Also, I agree that Ben Mk. 16 deserves props for this change in stance.  The church, much like society in whole, really is in need of forward progress towards gay equality. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on July 19, 2011, 10:14:30 AM
And even more people fooled by The Onion.

Pope Supports Gay Marriage After Meeting Charming Connecticut Couple  (https://www.theonion.com/video/pope-supports-gay-marriage-after-meeting-charming,20949/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+OnionNewsNetwork+%28Onion+News+Network%29&utm_content=Google+Feedfetcher)

And on a side note,  I don't like the switch from full length news stories to these shorter updates that The Onion is doing now.  I guess it's related to Onion TV or something. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MasterShakezula on July 19, 2011, 10:16:40 AM
Oh.  Well, I retract the props that I gave to Ben Mk. 16, then. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on July 19, 2011, 10:32:08 AM
Well, can't blame a guy for hoping.  And who knows?  Change is upon us either way, and he'd be seen as backwards if he didn't seize upon such an opportunity.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on July 20, 2011, 01:39:21 PM
From a book of famous quotes: "Economists are experts who will know tomorrow why what they predicted yesterday didn't happen today."
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on July 21, 2011, 10:00:40 PM
Unrelated to the above, but, for you, Super Jew

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H3EVoF-LUdU
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on July 22, 2011, 05:19:27 AM
Ah yes, the wonders of being an internet political pundit. I will believe these claims if I hear it from the horse's mouth, sure; find me an audio recording of Obama explicitly saying these things and I'll believe it. Also the guy says the HuffPost reporter who got the quote heard it in 2010. So...why didn't he come out with the quote then?

The danger of the new political atmosphere aided by the internet - and this is something Obama himself has remarked on - is people can say anything they want and pose anything as fact without being expected to provide real, verifiable evidence.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MetalMike06 on July 22, 2011, 05:03:19 PM
 :rollin

Quote
Man Takes Viagra, Wears Sweatpants for TSA Pat Down

NASHVILLE INT’L AIRPORT — A Wyoming man walked through a TSA checkpoint with a raging erection on Tuesday, daring TSA officers and even fellow passengers to give him an invasive pat down.
“I’m next,” Warren Kelvin, 34, screamed as he pushed to the front of the security line. According to TSA officials, Kelvin had ingested two Viagra and wore sweatpants without boxers for his Southwest flight from Nashville to Phoenix.
“I thought he was carrying a baton in his pants,” said Amanda Watershed, second shift supervisor of the A Terminal at Nashville International Airport. “Nope… That was his penis.”

Full article:
https://thewashingtonfancy.com/2011/06/man-takes-viagra-wears-sweatpants-for-tsa-pat-down/
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on July 22, 2011, 05:13:51 PM
:rollin

Quote
Man Takes Viagra, Wears Sweatpants for TSA Pat Down

NASHVILLE INT’L AIRPORT — A Wyoming man walked through a TSA checkpoint with a raging erection on Tuesday, daring TSA officers and even fellow passengers to give him an invasive pat down.
“I’m next,” Warren Kelvin, 34, screamed as he pushed to the front of the security line. According to TSA officials, Kelvin had ingested two Viagra and wore sweatpants without boxers for his Southwest flight from Nashville to Phoenix.
“I thought he was carrying a baton in his pants,” said Amanda Watershed, second shift supervisor of the A Terminal at Nashville International Airport. “Nope… That was his penis.”

Full article:
https://thewashingtonfancy.com/2011/06/man-takes-viagra-wears-sweatpants-for-tsa-pat-down/

Funny.  When I thought it was a real story,  I thought the guy was a real asshole despite my enormous hatred of TSA bullshit. 

Had it been real, the guy would have been arrested for interfering with their operations,  and I'd probably have to agree with the TSA on that one.  Now I feel dirty, too. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on July 24, 2011, 01:48:42 PM
First same-sex marriage in New York:

(https://www.nypost.com/rw/nypost/2011/07/24/news/web_photos/gay_marriage_nyc_2--300x450.jpg)
https://www.nypost.com/p/news/local/first_same_sex_weddings_take_place_Cnzs5B8JcW6EC6Esu04oOJ

Read the comments section for lulz.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on July 24, 2011, 03:14:08 PM
Damn,  gotta love the airlines.

https://www.foxnews.com/politics/2011/07/24/airline-fee-hike-discussed-as-part-debt-ceiling-talks-industry-warns/
Quote
The airline industry's Air Transport Association is raising alarm about what they claim is a proposal to double the $2.50-per-flight passenger security fee as well as impose a new departure fee on airlines.
Quote
The group is working "vigorously" to try and stop it, he said.

"The passenger is going to take a hit if this tax increase goes through, and it'll make travel more expensive," Lott told FoxNews.com. "Unfortunately, a lot of politicians see airlines and their passengers as a cash cow."

The current $2.50 fee was imposed after the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks and was meant to help fund the Department of Homeland Security's operations. But Lott expressed concern that a hike would amount to a tax on passengers solely for the purpose of deficit reduction.

Personally,  I think a government fee for air travel is bullshit.  But for the ATA to bitch and moan about the hardship a $2.50 fee is going to pose to passengers is just insanity.  They've invented fees for everything they think they can get away with, which is basically everything since there's no viable alternative. 

And this comes on the heals of...
https://www.foxnews.com/travel/2011/07/23/some-flyers-may-not-see-savings-from-expired-taxes/
Quote
DALLAS-- Some airline customers won't see savings this weekend even though several federal taxes on tickets have expired.

US Airways and American Airlines raised fares to offset the tax savings.

That means instead of passing along the savings from expired taxes, the carriers are pocketing the money while customers pay the same amount as before.

Christ, I hate these people. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: GuineaPig on July 25, 2011, 08:25:01 AM
Considering airlines are so heavily subsidized by governments anyways, they really shouldn't be bitching.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on July 25, 2011, 08:35:13 AM
No, but they have reason to worry like everyone else.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on July 27, 2011, 08:44:52 PM
https://thenextweb.com/socialmedia/2011/07/27/the-white-house-just-rickrolled-a-twitter-user/

lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: ReaPsTA on July 28, 2011, 09:02:44 AM
https://thenextweb.com/socialmedia/2011/07/27/the-white-house-just-rickrolled-a-twitter-user/

lol

Nicely done.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on July 28, 2011, 10:05:42 AM
Saw this on reddit.

(https://hotimg23.fotki.com/a/46_187/104_96/141092.jpg)

lol.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on July 28, 2011, 01:02:42 PM
Saw this on reddit.

(https://hotimg23.fotki.com/a/46_187/104_96/141092.jpg)

lol.
Of course Hermann was right, but it wasn't anything new to them, either.  The Romans figured that one out 2000 years ago.  Various people have just been quick to jump all over it.  My problem with the continuing anti-immigrant hysteria isn't about the logical arguments for/against, but that it's being used as just another nationalistic wedge,  and whenever that happens, the results are usually tragic.  Something else that Hermann would knew quite well.   
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on August 04, 2011, 12:17:43 PM
Glad to see Governor Christie laying the smack down on idiots.


Quote from: Frances Martel
At this juncture, it may be more efficient to highlight which interactions between New Jersey Governor Chris Christie and the media are not newsworthy. The Republican’s appointment of Muslim-American Sohail Mohammed to a state bench this week ruffled some feathers among some who fear the threat of Sharia Law, but when asked about those concerns, Gov. Christie made clear he had no patience for such “ignorance,” calling the complaints “crap.”

“Ignorance is behind the criticism of Sohail Mohammed,” he told a reporter asking about the complaints that he may be inadequate to be a judge because he defended Muslim Americans who were wrongly arrested post-9/11. “He is an extraordinary American who is an outstanding lawyer and played an integral role in the post-September 11th period in building bridges between the Muslim American community in this state and law enforcement,” Gov. Christie argued, adding that he was “disgusted, candidly, by some of the questions he was asked… at the Senate judiciary committee.”

But it was a follow-up question on the fear of Sharia Law that set the governor off. “Sharia Law has nothing to do with this at all, it’s crazy!” he cried. “The guy is an American citizen!” He concluded that the “Sharia Law business is just crap… and I’m tried of dealing with the crazies,” adding with disgust and frustration that “it’s just unnecessary to be accusing this guy of things just because of his religious background.”
https://www.mediaite.com/tv/gov-chris-christie-defends-appointing-muslim-judge-this-sharia-law-business-is-crap/

Awesome.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Riceball on August 04, 2011, 05:14:56 PM
From a book of famous quotes: "Economists are experts who will know tomorrow why what they predicted yesterday didn't happen today."
Personal attack. Reported :p
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on August 04, 2011, 05:55:04 PM
I regret nothing. :biggrin:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on August 05, 2011, 03:33:08 PM
https://www.foxnews.com/world/2011/08/05/students-preparing-to-take-on-authorities-by-staging-another-water-fight/

(https://a57.foxnews.com/static/managed/img/U.S./660/371/iran-water-fight.gif)

I'm really starting to like the Iranians. 

I was unaware of the enormous culture gap they have going on.  75% under 35.  That's actually a fascinating situation they got going on.  A bunch of stone-age Mullahs trying to reign in a youthful culture that must absolutely scare the shit out of them. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: GuineaPig on August 07, 2011, 06:15:59 AM
https://nation.foxnews.com/president-obama/2011/08/05/obama-parties-chris-rock-jay-z-and-whoopi-while-rome-burns

Amusing.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MasterShakezula on August 07, 2011, 06:20:11 AM
Well, that is quite amusing.

I wonder what Boehner and co. are up to at this time...
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on August 07, 2011, 01:05:35 PM
Oh for fuck's sake.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on August 07, 2011, 06:58:41 PM
Gotta take every chance to try and tie Obama to every black person you could ever know, don't ya know?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MasterShakezula on August 07, 2011, 07:57:30 PM
I notice that Boehner and friends weren't invited.  I wonder if the far right are going to use that as another point against Barack...
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on August 25, 2011, 06:14:18 AM
Video response to an Onion article titled "Drunken Ben Bernanke Tells Everyone At Neighborhood Bar How Screwed U.S. Economy Really Is":

https://youtu.be/kOY98kqG6wg

Article he is referencing: https://www.theonion.com/articles/drunken-ben-bernanke-tells-everyone-at-neighborhoo,21059/?mobile=true
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on August 25, 2011, 10:00:08 AM
lol "sheeple"
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Horatio on August 25, 2011, 01:10:07 PM
Figured I'd share one of my favorite hilarious conservative blogs, Debbie Schlussel's:

https://www.debbieschlussel.com/41154/anti-israel-israeli-author-race-on-obamas-vacay-reading-list/
https://www.debbieschlussel.com/40825/barf-on-eve-of-911-novel-lectures-us-on-hurts-of-the-real-victims-muslims/

She also does movie "reviews" (read: poorly veiled attempts to further the blog's political agenda, as well as constant moralizing every other sentence -- like Armond White except replace race agenda with neoconservative agenda):

https://www.debbieschlussel.com/35208/wknd-box-office-source-code-win-win-miral-certified-copy/
https://www.debbieschlussel.com/13898/dont-believe-the-hype-avatar-stinks-long-boring-unoriginal-uber-left/

Quote
*  “Source Code“:  The worst thing about this movie is that it goes out of its way to show you that a disgruntled White guy anarchist, and not an Arab Muslim, is the real terrorist.  Been there, seen that . . . except in real life, where the Muslim is usually the terrorist blowing up the train, and the White guy anarchist is usually at home reading the Turner Diaries.  But, hey, it’s Hollywood, where politically correct fantasies rule, and the Muslim is always the victimized innocent nice guy who just wants to be left alone.

Quote
Clocking in at nearly three hours, “Avatar” is an incredible waste of time.  It’s essentially a remake of “Dances With Wolves” and every other movie where we evil Americans terrorize the indigenous natives, kill them, take their land, and are just all around imperialistically wicked and inhumane.  Oh, and we’re destroying the environment, clearing precious giant trees and natural landscapes and killing rare animals and their habitats, in order to invade and harvest valuable substances under the ground.  Sound familiar?  Yup, just like a million diatribes from Daily Kos, Democratic Underground, and every other far-left outlet about how we invaded Iraq for oil.

Yes, “Avatar” is cinema for the hate America crowd.

And, like “Dances With Wolves,” there is, of course, the standard stock White male and/or human character who “becomes one of them” and sympathizes with their plight, begging the evil humans–or evil Americans, take your pick–to stop the invasion, destruction, and wholesale theft.  It’s been in a million movies you’ve seen, including this summer’s far superior if equally heavy-handed and manipulative, “District 9″ (read my review).

At least she gets it right that District 9 is better than Avatar though.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on August 25, 2011, 02:07:33 PM
Yeah,  I stumbled across one of her blogs the other day and found it insanely humorous.   Don't recall the topic, but it was Muslim hate-mongering.  I don't mind these things so much if they're creatively written.  In her case, while she's not a bad writer, she's definitely a boring and uninspired one, and that's even worse in my book. 

As for moralistic movie reviews,  this was always my favorite. 
https://christiananswers.net/spotlight/movies/pre2000/i-titanic.html?zoom_highlight=titanic

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on August 30, 2011, 09:00:33 AM
This is the closest I've seen The Onion come to straight reporting. It's kind of sad, actually

"Ongoing Iraqi Violence Almost Makes Invasion Seem Pointless"

Quote from: The Onion
WASHINGTON—Following the latest surge of violence in Iraq, a Pew Research Center poll released Monday has found that a substantial majority of Americans now believe the continuing bloodshed in the country almost makes it seem as if the 2003 U.S. invasion might have actually been somewhat pointless.

Approximately 83 percent of Americans surveyed said recent incidents such as a car bomb explosion that killed 40 in the city of Kut, the executions of seven worshippers outside a mosque in Youssifiyah, and a series of other attacks that have left scores of Iraqis dead and wounded were the kinds of events that, if they didn't know better, might make them think the lengthy occupation really wasn't worth it in the slightest.

Forty-three percent of Americans said if someone wanted to, they could very nearly make the assessment, based on current conditions on the ground, that perhaps the United States wasted valuable resources on an unwinnable, nearly impossible endeavor.

"If I didn't have the full story of how and why we got into Iraq, I could see how the continuing violence might, possibly, make the whole war seem almost misguided or something," Atlanta resident Arnold Grover said. "You read about terrorists dressed as police officers gunning down men at a recruiting station and catch yourself wondering for a moment if maybe, just maybe, we might have actually made a terrible decision that just made a bad situation worse and squandered the international goodwill we enjoyed after 9/11."

https://www.theonion.com/articles/ongoing-iraqi-violence-almost-makes-american-invas,21238/
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on August 30, 2011, 09:29:40 PM
Hey, at least there's no rape rooms.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: YtseBitsySpider on September 08, 2011, 06:10:51 AM
https://www.afterdawn.com/news/article.cfm/2011/09/07/mpaa_piracy_claims_amount_to_2_000_per_pirate

Damnit how did they know I'd buy 200 discs last year.

The MPAA so in touch....
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on September 08, 2011, 03:40:57 PM
https://www.afterdawn.com/news/article.cfm/2011/09/07/mpaa_piracy_claims_amount_to_2_000_per_pirate

Damnit how did they know I'd buy 200 discs last year.

The MPAA so in touch....

Lol, funny for several reasons.

It actually reminds me of the "broken window" fallacy, or I should so, it's the kind of fallacious logic that makes "the broken window fallacy." The false assumption here is that the money wasn't spent elsewhere, or that the money would have been available for purchase. If you can afford it, and you pirate a movie, then you'll spend that money on something else, so it enters the economy. If you can't afford it, then you'd never have been able to spend the money in the first place, for it to enter the economy.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on September 12, 2011, 04:43:06 PM
This year's influx of new members seems to have brought in some quality P/R posters.  I've seen some good posts today from people I've not noticed before.  Always a good thing.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: 73109 on September 12, 2011, 04:57:37 PM
Yes, but you'll always have me. There is a black lining to every silver cloud.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on September 12, 2011, 05:10:51 PM
I worked as an intern for Environment Massachusetts today, 'twas fun.  Go green everybody! :tup
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on September 12, 2011, 05:11:21 PM
Yes, but you'll always have me. There is a black lining to every silver cloud.

You're black?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: 73109 on September 12, 2011, 05:12:09 PM
If only I could photo shop...that would have been the greatest post evar!
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Riceball on September 12, 2011, 05:57:21 PM
I had been lurking for about 12 months before I started posting, and yeah I've noticed a pick up in the debate over that time. It seems like theres less fanaticism now and more "thanks for sharing your perspective" going on; its great!

Still needs to be more economic discussion though :loser:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nick on September 12, 2011, 06:05:23 PM
Seeing The Colbert Report on Wednesday, very excited...

Just wish guest wasn't Michael Moore.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: 73109 on September 12, 2011, 06:06:06 PM
I love Michael Moore.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on September 12, 2011, 06:06:52 PM
Seeing The Colbert Report on Wednesday, very excited...

Just wish guest wasn't Michael Moore.

That will be awesome. Michael Moore? The most absurdly left leaning person talking to Colbert who acts like the most absurdly right learning person ever?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: chknptpie on September 12, 2011, 06:10:23 PM
Seeing The Colbert Report on Wednesday, very excited...

Just wish guest wasn't Michael Moore.

 :lol I can just imagine how that interview is going to go. I'm jelly
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nick on September 12, 2011, 06:10:54 PM
I've just really never liked Michael Moore. His politics are one thing but I've just never liked how he carries himself. Though I have to admire his ankles and how they carry him.

Edit: He's been on at LEAST once before, if you go to Steven's website you can search it and dig it up.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on September 12, 2011, 07:59:43 PM
I understand that it may have gone a bit off course, but why was the 9/11 thread locked? I was enjoying reading it before the shitstorm -- figured a nudge back on topic would have sufficed.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: zxlkho on September 12, 2011, 08:06:37 PM
I agree. I rarely come to p/r for anything, but I found that thread to be a very good read.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: ClairvoyantCat on September 12, 2011, 08:13:56 PM
Would a mod/admin consider unlocking it under the agreement that we abandon the whole Native American issue?

I think there is still very interesting discussion to be had on the subject, and it would be a shame if it went to waste just because the thread veered slightly off topic for a few posts. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: bosk1 on September 12, 2011, 08:18:23 PM
Would a mod/admin consider unlocking it under the agreement that we abandon the whole Native American issue?

I think there is still very interesting discussion to be had on the subject, and it would be a shame if it went to waste just because the thread veered slightly off topic for a few posts. 

Yes.  And also under the condition that people stop baiting Tick.  Just because his beliefs may be unpopular with certain members, or because he tends to be "bull in a china shop" in the way he articulates them sometimes, doesn't give people the right to bait him.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on September 12, 2011, 08:34:45 PM
Thanks bosk!
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on September 12, 2011, 08:55:00 PM
There's this lesson that is taught in the CIA: blow-back. How can I phrase a tactful question that would incentivate constructive debate on this basis: Did the US foreign policy provoked the 9/11 attacks?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: zxlkho on September 12, 2011, 09:01:09 PM
There's this lesson that is taught in the CIA: blow-back. How can I phrase a tactful question that would incentivate constructive debate on this basis: Did the US foreign policy provoked the 9/11 attacks?
This will be a very opinionated question since we don't really know all the facts, but I believe yes, absolutely.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nick on September 12, 2011, 09:02:43 PM
Well, I mean, there's only the fact that Bin Laden has expressly said that US foreign policy was his reason for the attacks...
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on September 12, 2011, 09:07:20 PM
They provoked anger, but to say they provoked 2 planes crashing into buildings................no.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MetalMike06 on September 12, 2011, 09:11:44 PM
Well, I mean, there's only the fact that Bin Laden has expressly said that US foreign policy was his reason for the attacks...

Quiet, citizen!

Seriously though, this is never mentioned enough.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on September 12, 2011, 09:15:22 PM
Is the question well phrased so I can make a thread about it?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on September 12, 2011, 09:18:56 PM
Is the question well phrased so I can make a thread about it?

Yea, but it will most likely be most of us saying yes, and like 3 overly conservative posters saying no and then after 2 pages or so of good discussion it will turn into something insane, probably a fight about whether or not Washington had sex with his slaves or something.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on September 12, 2011, 09:21:53 PM
Basically, the typical P/R thread. :tup Let's go!
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MetalMike06 on September 12, 2011, 09:25:18 PM
I'd ask, "did US foreign policy unintentionally provoke the 9/11 attacks?"

I think that'd narrow the debate to a more realistic level. 'Cause a lot of people try to attack the idea that we expressly attacked the Arab world and literally tried to directly provoke them, which just isn't the case. Some basically were religiously outraged at our presence in the Muslim world. A lot of people over there don't like it, but there are a few who are crazy enough to carry out terrorist attacks to make a statement about it.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MasterShakezula on September 12, 2011, 09:29:52 PM
probably a fight about whether or not Washington had sex with his slaves or something.

Dude, that was Phat Tommy Jefferson. 

Though, Washington did have his moral downfalls.

For example, during the Revolutionary War, he ran up 450,000 1770s dollars worth of personal expenses (read: dining on steak and lobster and such).  That's equivalent to 9.4 million modern dollars.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on September 12, 2011, 09:31:09 PM
Well if everyone knows Jefferson banged his slaves, then what's to fight about? That's why I said Washington.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MetalMike06 on September 12, 2011, 09:36:01 PM
Is the question well phrased so I can make a thread about it?

Yea, but it will most likely be most of us saying yes, and like 3 overly conservative posters saying no and then after 2 pages or so of good discussion it will turn into something insane, probably a fight about whether or not Washington had sex with his slaves or something.

Lol, this is correct though.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: emindead on September 12, 2011, 09:37:55 PM
I'd ask, "did US foreign policy unintentionally provoke the 9/11 attacks?"

I think that'd narrow the debate to a more realistic level. 'Cause a lot of people try to attack the idea that we expressly attacked the Arab world and literally tried to directly provoke them, which just isn't the case. Some basically were religiously outraged at our presence in the Muslim world. A lot of people over there don't like it, but there are a few who are crazy enough to carry out terrorist attacks to make a statement about it.
Good call.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nick on September 14, 2011, 01:11:03 PM
I have arrived at the Colbert studios!
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: chknptpie on September 14, 2011, 01:19:56 PM
I have arrived at the Colbert studios!

Shout something DT related during filming!
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on September 16, 2011, 03:33:55 AM
Edit: never mind
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on September 17, 2011, 07:46:33 AM
Here P/R, take this:

https://tomnichols.net/blog/

It's a blog written by a professor who taught one of my Harvard classes this summer, one called Future of War. I disagree with him on a lot of things but he's a really bright guy, and where international relations and the difficulties of the future of war are concerned I think he's spot-on.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: black_biff_stadler on September 17, 2011, 12:03:30 PM
Anyone hear about the Sarah Palin/Glen Rice (former NBA player but in college at that time) hookup of '87?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Riceball on September 18, 2011, 05:59:32 PM
I don't think this has been posted yet, but I would call this the definition of irony:

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2011-09-19/wall-street-protest-dwindles/2905300?section=world

lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on September 18, 2011, 06:27:50 PM
Not sure how that's ironic, but it's quite sad.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Riceball on September 18, 2011, 06:31:57 PM
I'd draw a parallel to what went on in North Africa earlier in the year - these countries protest, holding up the democratic process and their right to protest as a beacon of light to escape oppression, while the "world's greatest democracy" tries to do the same thing and it goes down in flames.

Ironic might not be the best word, sad is probably better.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on September 19, 2011, 08:31:22 AM
A:  I like the flag.  B: I like that one girl had the common sense to cover her face.  She'll probably still wind up on a few watch lists, but at least she's cognizant of the risks. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MasterShakezula on September 19, 2011, 10:15:23 PM
I think the lack of effort may have to do with the fact that the average person here, though probably affected by the economy, isn't exactly facing the same degree of general suffering in life than the average citizen in one of the N-African nations which were toppled by revolution. 

Also, our police force is quite well-armed/scary to deal with. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on September 20, 2011, 04:21:03 PM
I think the lack of effort may have to do with the fact that the average person here, though probably affected by the economy, isn't exactly facing the same degree of general suffering in life than the average citizen in one of the N-African nations which were toppled by revolution. 

Also, our police force is quite well-armed/scary to deal with.

Including these thing, I'd also say the size of the US has some role.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on September 20, 2011, 06:29:28 PM
I think the lack of effort may have to do with the fact that the average person here, though probably affected by the economy, isn't exactly facing the same degree of general suffering in life than the average citizen in one of the N-African nations which were toppled by revolution. 

Also, our police force is quite well-armed/scary to deal with.

Including these thing, I'd also say the size of the US has some role.
Certainly the first thing I figured.  Egypt isn't that much bigger than Texas.  Everybody here could drive to Austin in 6 hours or so, so you could conceivably get quite a few people there for a protest. NYC is a four hour flight. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: YtseBitsySpider on September 23, 2011, 06:36:36 AM
Your princess hypocrite moment this morning:

Melissa Ethridge a big fighter for gay/lesbian equal rights.......now divorcing her partner and fighting over everything says they weren't actually married it was just some "commital ceremony".

nice

it's THIS WAY....but...if it's going to cost me money...its THAT way.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on September 23, 2011, 11:11:16 AM
People booing a gay soldier at Republican debate: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xwoh6g05hj4

What. The. Fuck.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on September 27, 2011, 09:15:05 AM
(https://24.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_ls6c2oM7TB1qkt6yoo1_500.png)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on September 27, 2011, 10:52:01 AM
By hardcore republican cousin always spells California with a K. I really don't understand what that's supposed to do.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on September 27, 2011, 12:32:08 PM
By hardcore republican cousin always spells California with a K. I really don't understand what that's supposed to do.
I suppose it's supposed to make it look more Russian, and therefore more Kommunist. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on October 04, 2011, 12:50:06 PM
I was blocked on Facebook today by someone who told me I shouldn't have played the "race card" right after he called Obama a "Kenyan Born Piece Of Muslim Shit".

Classy.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on October 04, 2011, 02:14:01 PM
You shouldn't have.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on October 04, 2011, 03:41:18 PM
All I said was that the statement was racist so why not?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on October 05, 2011, 06:08:01 AM
It wasn't.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on October 05, 2011, 06:39:36 AM
Uh...yeah it was.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on October 05, 2011, 07:07:07 AM
Uh...yeah it was.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on October 05, 2011, 07:36:40 AM
Jesus, I'm joking :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on October 05, 2011, 08:34:17 AM
Difficult to tell when someone is joking in P&R  :P
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on October 05, 2011, 11:44:50 AM
Well, technically speaking it wasn't racist, it was ignorant and xenophobic.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on October 10, 2011, 01:09:32 PM
(https://www.smbc-comics.com/comics/20111010.gif)

https://www.smbc-comics.com/?id=2394
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on October 13, 2011, 10:26:11 PM
An interesting little piece discovered by none other than our own Cole:

https://www.politicalcompass.org/uselection2008
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on October 13, 2011, 10:42:12 PM
An interesting little piece discovered by none other than our own Cole:

https://www.politicalcompass.org/uselection2008
Not surprising at all.  I would love to see it updated, as I suspect Obama's shifted a bit over the last few years.  I'd also like to see some historical representation.  I suspect you'd see both parties moving to the NE.

Some of the regional ones are quite interesting.  I had no idea that the ideology was so different between Kiwis and Aussies. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on October 19, 2011, 01:56:06 PM
P/R has been hopping lately. I like.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Ryzee on October 19, 2011, 03:30:22 PM
Any of you guys watch Parks & Rec?  We've got a lot of little Ron Swansons on this board!
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Ħ on October 23, 2011, 05:58:39 PM
Does anyone else get really annoyed whenever quotation marks are used as a form of "mockery"?  I'll admit, I do it sometimes, but it's still a really rude thing to do.  Very immature argument style.  I think Trunk and White even addressed it as something silly.

Just had to vent. :)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AndyDT on October 25, 2011, 06:48:19 AM
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/comment/ambroseevans_pritchard/8844646/World-power-swings-back-to-America.html
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on October 25, 2011, 10:33:17 AM
Figure this is as good a place as any:

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/319981_2614207677787_1332915897_33120685_2066887003_n.jpg)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Riceball on October 25, 2011, 06:02:06 PM
He's doing it wrong.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: GuineaPig on October 31, 2011, 08:17:00 AM
A governmental study was recently released concerning a hypothetical high-speed rail line in Ontario/Québec.  It predicted that it would cost $17-20 billion, and would become instantly profitable, while reducing CO2 emissions and better integrating Canada's business community.

It will presumably be ignored.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Rathma on November 01, 2011, 07:14:53 AM
Quote
Nice thread title Scheavo.

Is locking a thread because the title is slightly provocative justified? Couldn't the title just have been changed?? Censorship should really be a very last resort, imho.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on November 01, 2011, 03:48:55 PM
Quote
Nice thread title Scheavo.

Is locking a thread because the title is slightly provocative justified? Couldn't the title just have been changed?? Censorship should really be a very last resort, imho.

Eh, I'll admit that the hasty generalization was uncalled for. Still an amazing amount of cognitive dissonance going about in conservative groups. They fellate Reagan, but don't support anything Reagan stood by, and when presented with a Reagan-esq Obama, they turn him down.

DDTonfire, I wasn't be facetious, just so ya know.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: GuineaPig on November 02, 2011, 08:57:28 AM
A report finds that deaths due to painkiller abuse now exceed deaths from cocaine and heroin combined. (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-15548478)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on November 08, 2011, 10:26:23 PM
An institution is a beautiful thing. That is all.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on November 10, 2011, 12:49:11 AM
"Had Mr. Vilca actually molested a child," The New York Times notes, "he might well have received a lighter sentence." (https://reason.com/blog/2011/11/07/a-life-sentence-for-possessing-child-por)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on November 10, 2011, 08:23:56 AM
"Had Mr. Vilca actually molested a child," The New York Times notes, "he might well have received a lighter sentence." (https://reason.com/blog/2011/11/07/a-life-sentence-for-possessing-child-por)
That's fucked up.  At the same time,  the problem in this instance is with sentencing guidelines in general,  and not the silly "think of the children!" paranoia that caused this situation. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on November 14, 2011, 07:50:16 AM
So I was looking at the grid from that Political Compass Test, and I realized that while I know right authoritarian correlates with fascism and left authoritarian with socialism, I have no idea what the difference is between right and left libertarian, or if there's a more recognizable name for one or the other.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: chknptpie on November 14, 2011, 11:51:50 AM
So I was looking at the grid from that Political Compass Test, and I realized that while I know right authoritarian correlates with fascism and left authoritarian with socialism, I have no idea what the difference is between right and left libertarian, or if there's a more recognizable name for one or the other.

Libertarian is such a large collection of believes its hard to say. I know there are some that are pro-choice, some that are pro-life... so it may just be the nature of the naming convention.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on November 14, 2011, 12:14:20 PM
So I was looking at the grid from that Political Compass Test, and I realized that while I know right authoritarian correlates with fascism and left authoritarian with socialism, I have no idea what the difference is between right and left libertarian, or if there's a more recognizable name for one or the other.

I'm trying to read up on it but I'm coming out somewhat confused. I think the gist of it is that they place a high value on social justice and equality, which they believe can be achieved through anticorporatist, free-market means.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on November 14, 2011, 12:27:54 PM
Oral arguments for United States v. Jones:  https://www.oyez.org/cases/2010-2019/2011/2011_10_1259/argument

This is the case where the Supreme Court will determine that The Man doesn't need a search warrant to put a GPS tracker on your car.  I haven't had a chance to listen to it yet,  but I've been looking forward to hearing it. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on November 14, 2011, 12:55:49 PM
Oh gosh; thanks for posting. Oyez does a nice job with these.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on November 14, 2011, 01:23:25 PM
Yeah,  I love listening to these when I walk in the evenings.  Looking forward to this one tonight. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on November 14, 2011, 02:12:00 PM
This is the case where the Supreme Court will determine that The Man doesn't need a search warrant to put a GPS tracker on your car.

It's mindblowing that that's even a question.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on November 14, 2011, 02:19:15 PM
I actually thought Dreeben for the US did a much better job than Jones' counsel, although I shouldn't be surprised I guess; you don't just get to be a Deputy Solicitor General without some skills.

I'm concerned.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on November 14, 2011, 02:56:46 PM
This is the case where the Supreme Court will determine that The Man doesn't need a search warrant to put a GPS tracker on your car.

It's mindblowing that that's even a question.

I agree, but at the same time, given the way you can get warrants, I don't really see why this matters a whole lot to the individual. If the police go an get a warrant to track me, I'm still not gonna know, right? I'd say the problem arises with technology; why doesn't someone create a device the scrambles gps monitoring devices like this? Or would that just fuck with everyone's cell phones?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on November 14, 2011, 04:21:25 PM
I actually thought Dreeben for the US did a much better job than Jones' counsel, although I shouldn't be surprised I guess; you don't just get to be a Deputy Solicitor General without some skills.

I'm concerned.
I haven't heard it yet,  but yeah,  Uncle Sammy tends to get some pretty brilliant guys to argue for him.  I don't recall any cases he's argued specifically,  but this fellow appears to have been arguing on The Man's behalf since '89. 



This is the case where the Supreme Court will determine that The Man doesn't need a search warrant to put a GPS tracker on your car.

It's mindblowing that that's even a question.

I agree, but at the same time, given the way you can get warrants, I don't really see why this matters a whole lot to the individual. If the police go an get a warrant to track me, I'm still not gonna know, right? I'd say the problem arises with technology; why doesn't someone create a device the scrambles gps monitoring devices like this? Or would that just fuck with everyone's cell phones?
At least there's some oversight, though.  Even if it's just the FISA court.  I recall one of the FISA justices actually demonstrating some conscience a while back.  Better than allowing Johnny to make all of the decisions.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on November 14, 2011, 04:52:48 PM
Hey goon thanks for the blurb, but who's who in that? Or are libertarians fairly similar right or left?

I can't believe I'm saying this, but I wish livehard were here to help me out. :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on November 14, 2011, 08:04:32 PM
The "they" are left libertarians. Although in my very limited reading I found it difficult to make a distinction between them and the "regular" libertarians.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on November 14, 2011, 08:57:45 PM
OK thanks
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on November 14, 2011, 11:05:17 PM
This is the case where the Supreme Court will determine that The Man doesn't need a search warrant to put a GPS tracker on your car.

It's mindblowing that that's even a question.

I agree, but at the same time, given the way you can get warrants, I don't really see why this matters a whole lot to the individual. If the police go an get a warrant to track me, I'm still not gonna know, right? I'd say the problem arises with technology; why doesn't someone create a device the scrambles gps monitoring devices like this? Or would that just fuck with everyone's cell phones?
At least there's some oversight, though.  Even if it's just the FISA court.  I recall one of the FISA justices actually demonstrating some conscience a while back.  Better than allowing Johnny to make all of the decisions.

I guess my point was that the biggest threat to persona privacy isn't the government, but technology.

The fact that you actually recall a justice "demonstrating a conscience" means how rare that thing seems to be. If it makes a difference in like 1% of the cases, is it really all that different? I guess I just don't see the results of this being much more than legal mumbo jumbo, with little effect for most people.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on November 15, 2011, 02:07:50 PM
A few things struck me about U.S. v. Jones.

For one thing,  they never followed the path I hoped they would.  The best chance for them shooting this thing down was if they determined it was over-broad.  A couple of years ago, they said The Man couldn't fly around in pork-choppers scanning neighborhoods with infrared cameras looking for dope growers.  The rationale behind it was that picking up heat signatures could tell you a lot more than if they're growing pot.  Justice Bryer expressed concern that they could tell when he was using his Swedish sauna (rather than working).  It seems the same thing applies here.  A GPS device can tell when you visit the Asian massage parlor, for example.  It's always on and always reporting.  This goes well beyond the scope of the investigation.

Without following that avenue,  I see little chance that they'll shoot this thing down.  One possibility is that they overturn this guys conviction, but punt the larger issue.  They were very concerned about the trespass issue.  It's possible (though I wouldn't bet on it) that they conclude placing the device on his car was no-bueno,  but leave the actual tracking undecided.  Either way,  this case demonstrates once again how completely meaningless the concept of privacy has become.

What actually concerned me the most is their opinion that this is an issue that should be left up to the legislatures.  It seems to me that the 4th Amendment is actually there specifically to protect us from the intrusion of government,  so it seems quite a stretch to think that the government is going to step in here and castrate itself.  Their reasoning is that the people control the government,  and therefore it's safe to leave the safeguard up to us, via the legislature.  Of course we now know good and well that we have absolutely no control over the government.  The people who actually make GPS transmitters actually have more influence than we do.  Kind of a depressing situation, honestly.

In the end,  I suppose that the only way this can work itself out is for the surveillance situation to get so bad that people insist something be done about it.  Another entry on the list of reasons to rebel.  I don't see that happening in my lifetime.  At this point,  I think Americans will trade all the privacy in the world for a little added convenience.  Just another reason why things suck.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on November 15, 2011, 02:15:58 PM
A GPS device can tell when you visit the Asian massage parlor, for example.  It's always on and always reporting.  This goes well beyond the scope of the investigation.

In the end,  I suppose that the only way this can work itself out is for the surveillance situation to get so bad that people insist something be done about it.  Another entry on the list of reasons to rebel.  I don't see that happening in my lifetime.  At this point,  I think Americans will trade all the privacy in the world for a little added convenience.  Just another reason why things suck.

Considering things like Facebook and cellphones, I'm not sure most people have any right to complain about their privacy being taken away anymore. It's like a whore complaining when she get's pregnant.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on November 15, 2011, 02:22:47 PM
A GPS device can tell when you visit the Asian massage parlor, for example.  It's always on and always reporting.  This goes well beyond the scope of the investigation.

In the end,  I suppose that the only way this can work itself out is for the surveillance situation to get so bad that people insist something be done about it.  Another entry on the list of reasons to rebel.  I don't see that happening in my lifetime.  At this point,  I think Americans will trade all the privacy in the world for a little added convenience.  Just another reason why things suck.

Considering things like Facebook and cellphones, I'm not sure most people have any right to complain about their privacy being taken away anymore. It's like a whore complaining when she get's pregnant.
I don't use Facebook, and I have GPS assist disabled in my phone.  I'm not voluntarily ceding my privacy like most people do, and as such,  it seem reasonable to expect that a court order should be required to track my phone. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on November 15, 2011, 02:34:47 PM
A GPS device can tell when you visit the Asian massage parlor, for example.  It's always on and always reporting.  This goes well beyond the scope of the investigation.

In the end,  I suppose that the only way this can work itself out is for the surveillance situation to get so bad that people insist something be done about it.  Another entry on the list of reasons to rebel.  I don't see that happening in my lifetime.  At this point,  I think Americans will trade all the privacy in the world for a little added convenience.  Just another reason why things suck.

Considering things like Facebook and cellphones, I'm not sure most people have any right to complain about their privacy being taken away anymore. It's like a whore complaining when she get's pregnant.
I don't use Facebook, and I have GPS assist disabled in my phone.  I'm not voluntarily ceding my privacy like most people do, and as such,  it seem reasonable to expect that a court order should be required to track my phone.

Well you aren't most people.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on November 17, 2011, 10:00:12 AM
I can't remember if it's Nigerius Rex or WW that likes talking about American food policy, but lemme just leave this here...

https://notionscapital.wordpress.com/2011/11/16/congress-reaps-pizza-harvest/

Pizza = vegetable
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on November 17, 2011, 10:21:57 AM
ksadfhlasdfjhasldfhgasdf'asd

Quote
In other farm news, Monsanto announced that Roundup-Ready Pizza Seeds will be available in time for spring planting, and February pizza crop futures rose at the Chicago Board of Trade after predictions of  increased Super Bowl party demand.
:lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on November 17, 2011, 11:25:48 AM
We need a 'take a bow' emote.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on November 17, 2011, 11:53:01 AM
That's a real hoot.  While I agree with the Republican's position that the federal government shouldn't be dictating what schools feed kids,  they're still absolutely wrong.  Setting aside the very sound (from a Republican point of view) argument that today's children are too fat to go off and get and get blown to bits in faraway deserts defending corporate profits,  it seems to me that the federales do have a right to dictate what lunch meals they're paying for.  The Republican stance should be that poor kids should buy their own,  rely on a kind-hearted public to support them, or fucking starve. 

And this has come up before under the administration of St. Reagan.  Ketchup as a vegetable (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ketchup_as_a_vegetable)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on November 17, 2011, 12:03:01 PM
I just gotta say, Barto, I appreciate the nicknames you give our recent presidents :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on November 18, 2011, 01:42:03 PM
Does anybody actually like Ann Coulter?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on November 18, 2011, 06:38:27 PM
She actually said most of the Republican candidates are a joke, first time I think I've ever agreed with her.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on November 19, 2011, 09:12:44 AM
I saw this in someone's signature at another forum:

(https://www.zeldauniverse.net/forums/image.php?u=5371267&type=sigpic&dateline=1319220928)

The Holocaust denial part...bleh.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on November 19, 2011, 11:31:56 AM
lol.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on November 23, 2011, 11:10:39 PM
Do we have a war thread? Thought this article was interesting. The US is trying to lift the UN ban on cluster bombs, apparently. 

https://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/nov/22/us-pushing-un-cluster-bombs
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on November 24, 2011, 02:06:33 PM
I can't think of one damn good reason why anyone would fight for this kind of thing (but really, that goes for all warfare/hostile actions). In the end, if conventional style warfare broke out, I fully expect both sides to use the means at their disposal to achieve their ends.

Really, the fueling factor in the Cold War is still with us though, so I'm not sure we'll see much more than the Proxy war's we've seen the for past 60 year's. Nukes in the hands of terrorists organizations are bad, nukes in the hands of states of power is almost beneficial. You know if you use a nuke, you're going to probably get nuked if you're a state, and there's not much fucking defense you can offer. Who the fuck is going to want that? No one, especially the powerful rulers of a country who just love to have people worship them.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on November 24, 2011, 02:52:56 PM
That Cold War mentality has been with us since the foundation of the Union, so that doesn't surprise me.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on November 24, 2011, 02:58:34 PM
I don't see how that's possible? There weren't nukes then, there wasn't the panic over nukes, and their repercussions. that's what I meant to refer to.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on November 24, 2011, 05:10:16 PM
Well sure, but the mentality was there, as in a Revolutionary War pt. 2 in which the British invade again, in which the British invade after weakening and dividing North and South, etc. I'll find the book I learned this from later.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on November 24, 2011, 07:49:52 PM
Well sure, but the mentality was there, as in a Revolutionary War pt. 2 in which the British invade again, in which the British invade after weakening and dividing North and South, etc. I'll find the book I learned this from later.

Think we're talking about different aspects. I don't mean the mentality of American's as a whole, but specifically the mentality around Nuclear Weapons, the major major influence that had on the Cold War, and it's effects on worlds politics.

It's purely based upon weapons technology, as Russians face the same mentality, and notice how Pakistan and India haven't blown each other up (at least yet). Mutually assured destruction is a game changer.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on November 24, 2011, 08:45:46 PM
Ah, my bad. :P
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MasterShakezula on November 25, 2011, 08:54:25 AM
https://articles.cnn.com/2011-11-17/justice/justice_dc-white-house-shooting_1_white-house-initial-court-hearing-assassination?_s=PM:JUSTICE (https://articles.cnn.com/2011-11-17/justice/justice_dc-white-house-shooting_1_white-house-initial-court-hearing-assassination?_s=PM:JUSTICE)

I'm surprised no one's posted this here, as of yet. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on November 25, 2011, 09:02:29 AM
Do we have a war thread? Thought this article was interesting. The US is trying to lift the UN ban on cluster bombs, apparently. 

https://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/nov/22/us-pushing-un-cluster-bombs
Cluster bombs are actually pretty damned useful.  I can see arguing for their continued use, but only if you start adding secondary fuses to them so that one way or the other, every munition blows up after it's deployed.  It'd probably also be wise to start making them look different than the food rations we often times drop for civvies. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on November 25, 2011, 12:45:43 PM
https://articles.cnn.com/2011-11-17/justice/justice_dc-white-house-shooting_1_white-house-initial-court-hearing-assassination?_s=PM:JUSTICE (https://articles.cnn.com/2011-11-17/justice/justice_dc-white-house-shooting_1_white-house-initial-court-hearing-assassination?_s=PM:JUSTICE)

I'm surprised no one's posted this here, as of yet.

The picture they send out of the guy makes him look half sane, but when you see video of the guy talking, he's clearly unstable.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Progmetty on November 26, 2011, 08:36:22 AM
I knew the U.S voted against admitting Palestine into the UNESCO but I didn't know it was gonna make a donation and canceled it because of this. That was so low. I only found out from this Egyptian Political show, the Egyptian Stephen Colbert if you will, it's in Arabic but you can see the slut @ 3:16 and the sheer fucktard expressions while she announces the fund cut. https://youtu.be/vCxw2YsWhtA
If you keep watching til the end you'll notice that it's not even the point he's trying to make; his point is the wealthy Arabian Gulf countries are spending so much insane amounts of money on so much nonsense although they could have proved to the UNESCO in a great stand that we won't all collapse just cause the U.S lobbyists have horns and breath fire. So the blame here really is on the Arab countries.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on November 26, 2011, 12:14:08 PM
Driven By Drug War Incentives, Cops Target Pot Smokers, Brush Off Victims Of Violent Crime (https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/11/21/drug-war-incentives-police-violent-crime_n_1105701.html)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: jsem on November 26, 2011, 01:01:15 PM
As usual. The statistics game.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: GuineaPig on November 26, 2011, 01:01:43 PM
It's moronic.  There's no justification for it.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on November 26, 2011, 02:21:38 PM
Driven By Drug War Incentives, Cops Target Pot Smokers, Brush Off Victims Of Violent Crime (https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/11/21/drug-war-incentives-police-violent-crime_n_1105701.html)

Sure makes me glad my town told cops they have to address anything and everything before they deal with pot. They don't always follow it, but they also have trouble seating juries for it anyways.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on November 27, 2011, 09:51:39 PM
Read this on another forum, in response to that Senate bill allowing home deployment:

Quote
I read about this yesterday. Obama's gotta be drooling with all of the power he's soon to be getting. Not only can he kill American citizens without due process, now he can do it on our own turf and even imprison them if he wants.

There's a good chance I'll be on one of his lists for speaking the truth and posing a threat to him.

That bottom part... :lolpalm:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Riceball on November 27, 2011, 10:22:41 PM
Bender: What is this the Middle Ages?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on November 27, 2011, 11:35:29 PM
I've gotta be on a list somewhere for buying this book for class (https://www.amazon.com/Milestones-Sayyid-Qutb/dp/1567444946) a few years ago :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on November 29, 2011, 05:19:24 PM
https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2011/nov/29/senate-defies-obama-veto-threat-terrorist-custody-/


Quote
Defying a veto threat from President Obama, the Senate voted Tuesday to preserve language that would give the U.S. military a crack at al Qaeda operatives captured in the U.S., even if they are American citizens.

The White House and its Senate allies objected and tried to block the changes, instead calling for the issue to be studied further.

They argued giving the military priority could complicate investigations into terrorist suspects in the U.S., and said it opens the door to indefinite military detention of U.S. citizens.

Not sure if the defense of Habeus Corpus is sincere, but I think this is an example of one area where McCain and Obama might have come to different conclusions.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on November 29, 2011, 05:58:39 PM
Good to see Obama is trying to fight this one. See? He ain't all bad.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on December 01, 2011, 08:02:43 AM
I think the Obama Administration just doesn't want the military messing with its executive authority in those areas.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on December 01, 2011, 08:20:10 AM
I suspect that their rationale is exactly what the quote says.  The federales have already given themselves the right to do whateverthehell they want to American citizens,  whenever and however they want.  There's no need to try and move that authority over to the military, as people would balk about it (which they should have done 10 years ago).  It would just be a huge layer of complication in a situation that already favors them greatly.

I'm surprised that the Republicans don't get that, as they're the ones who should be so happy about the decimation of habeas corpus.   I suspect that they're just trying to put forth a "strong on terror" front, and involving the military,  useful or otherwise,  is a good way to go about it.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on December 01, 2011, 08:43:33 AM
Yes, thanks for expanding.

Also, I don't know what took me this long (3 years) but I've finally unsubscribed from Obama's campaign emails. The one that did it was an email I just got from the First Lady saying that if I donated $30 or something like that I could be entered into a contest to have dinner with her and the President. No thank you :lol

edit: it was $3, not $30.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on December 01, 2011, 09:43:39 AM
Hey,  I think he's a crappy president,  but I'd be all over a dinner at the White House. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on December 01, 2011, 10:18:56 AM
I don't know what I would talk to him about. I feel like it would be extremely uncomfortable and awkward for me.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on December 01, 2011, 11:23:00 AM
Ask him what it's like being black. 

Seriously,  you'd be one of 20 guests.  I doubt you'd get much conversation time with the guy.  My guess is that you'd spend more time talking to the girl scout sitting next to you that sold the most cookies that year. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on December 01, 2011, 11:42:20 AM
:lol I'd just go on behalf of EPICVIEW and ask how his buddies Alinsky, Wright, Soros, and Uncle Odinga are doing.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: chknptpie on December 01, 2011, 11:58:03 AM
:lol I'd just go on behalf of EPICVIEW and ask how his buddies Alinsky, Wright, Soros, and Uncle Odinga are doing.

CIA has now made it impossible for you to win this raffle...  :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on December 01, 2011, 11:59:36 AM
:lol Oh ALSO, I'll need to see that birth certificate in person
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on December 01, 2011, 02:15:08 PM
I think the Obama Administration just doesn't want the military messing with its executive authority in those areas.

This doesn't make sense to me though... Obama is the Commander in Chief, so how is giving the military priority in any way undermine Obama's authority?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on December 01, 2011, 02:53:36 PM
It would undermine his executive authority.  He's got everything he wants right now in terms of the ability to hose us all,  and trying to expand that to the military would raise flags, suspicions, objections,  and basically just more attention that he wants or needs. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on December 01, 2011, 03:37:37 PM
But it's still under his executive authority? I'm obviously missing something hear. Undermining his authority would be to give this power to Congress, not give it to Obama in a different way.

I think the bill would be damaging in other ways, but not becuase it "undermines" Obama's authority. He would still have authority over the cases, he would still be able to authoritatively decide how the cases would be handled, etc.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on December 01, 2011, 04:03:17 PM
What I'm saying is that I think adding a whole new layer of complication and scrutiny to the powers he already has would weaken and jeopardize them.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: XJDenton on December 01, 2011, 05:34:33 PM
https://www.smbc-comics.com/index.php?db=comics&id=2434#comic
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on December 03, 2011, 07:39:54 AM
If anyone would like a lighthearted look back, here's This Land by JibJab, back from the '04 elections:

https://sendables.jibjab.com/originals/this_land
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on December 03, 2011, 10:59:16 AM
It's weird to think about how popular that video was back then :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on December 08, 2011, 09:41:19 AM
https://usnews.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2011/12/08/9290603-report-air-force-dumped-remains-of-274-troops-in-landfill

why...why?!
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: chknptpie on December 08, 2011, 11:23:29 AM
"Partial remains" ... does that mean like someone's cremated leg, another persons cremated arm... and things along those lines?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on December 08, 2011, 04:53:33 PM
The Allied American forces did that to corpses they found at the concentration and death camps. The reason for that was sanitation, don't know if it applies here but possibly.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on December 09, 2011, 12:15:38 PM
And if y'all want something else to chew on for a bit:

https://www.cnbc.com/id/45612773/

Why Is Eric Cantor Blocking the Congressional Insider Trading Act?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on December 09, 2011, 01:07:25 PM
'cos he's a huge fucking douchebag :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on December 09, 2011, 05:55:38 PM
(https://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/377089_2316571149426_1103880163_31966784_33177056_n.jpg)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on December 14, 2011, 02:08:35 PM
I think the Obama Administration just doesn't want the military messing with its executive authority in those areas.

This doesn't make sense to me though... Obama is the Commander in Chief, so how is giving the military priority in any way undermine Obama's authority?
But it's still under his executive authority? I'm obviously missing something hear. Undermining his authority would be to give this power to Congress, not give it to Obama in a different way.

I think the bill would be damaging in other ways, but not becuase it "undermines" Obama's authority. He would still have authority over the cases, he would still be able to authoritatively decide how the cases would be handled, etc.
What I'm saying is that I think adding a whole new layer of complication and scrutiny to the powers he already has would weaken and jeopardize them.

Don't worry guys, looks like he's not gonna veto it after all. (https://www.ajc.com/news/nation-world/white-house-says-no-1259587.html)

Quote
A White House statement says changes by congressional negotiators would not challenge or restrict the president's ability to collect intelligence or incapacitate terrorists.

The White House had threatened a veto over provisions requiring military custody of suspected terrorists linked to al-Qaida.


Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on December 14, 2011, 02:36:03 PM
Quote
A White House statement says changes by congressional negotiators would not challenge or restrict the president's ability to collect intelligence or incapacitate terrorists.

The White House had threatened a veto over provisions requiring military custody of suspected terrorists linked to al-Qaida.



What an asshole.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on December 14, 2011, 03:03:00 PM
WTF.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on December 14, 2011, 03:59:12 PM
Wouldn't have been surprised though if the veto had been overridden.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on December 14, 2011, 08:22:54 PM
cenk angry (https://current.com/shows/the-young-turks/videos/cenk-we-were-supposed-to-get-change-not-defense-authorization-act-stripping-civil-liberties)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on December 14, 2011, 10:54:04 PM
At this point,  given that Obama is the spiritual successor to Dumbass and a pussy as well,  I'm starting to think he's going to cave on the mandatory defense cuts.  He'll milk it as a campaign issue,  but at the end of the day he'll let the Republicans off the hook. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on December 14, 2011, 11:03:08 PM
And so back to my old argument that while Obama is not a great president, I would put it all behind a strong Democrat if the opportunity arose.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on December 15, 2011, 08:44:22 AM
My favorite part of this is that the White House was actually the entity that requested removal of the provision that would exempt American citizens from indefinite military detention.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on December 15, 2011, 08:48:35 AM
That's pretty messed up. I would like to know however if that came from the very top or what.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nick on December 15, 2011, 11:27:45 AM
https://www.dreamtheaterforums.org/boards/index.php?topic=29968.0

Well, after reading that I'm thinking that maybe my 2011 DTF New Years Eve Orgy won't work out. :(
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on December 15, 2011, 11:28:45 AM
it's okay nick everything will be ok
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on December 15, 2011, 02:46:26 PM
Something I forgot to point out before: terrible timing for the White House. This could seriously hurt Obama next year.

Although I can see two ways he can wriggle out of it:

1. Just go back on his word and veto the damn thing (unlikely, but there is always the pocket veto)

2. Take it to the Supreme Court (also small chance of success, but at least that's what they're supposed to do)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on December 15, 2011, 02:49:38 PM
I don't think it's going to hurt him. He's already lost people like me, and the rest of those who even care about this shit are going to vote for him anyway because they find Newt Romney so unpalatable.

And the libertarians weren't voting for him anyway
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on December 15, 2011, 02:53:15 PM
BTW, who are you thinking of voting for? If at all?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on December 15, 2011, 02:58:44 PM
I don't know. I am really conflicted about my one little vote. I guess I'll convince my parents to vote for Paul in the primaries since NY is a closed primary state.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on December 15, 2011, 04:35:47 PM
Quote from: Senator Obama
You know I taught constitutional law for 10 years at the University of Chicago, so…um…your next President will actually believe in the Constitution which you can’t say about your current President. [applause]

In today’s environment in particular I want Supreme Court Justices who are vigilant about civil liberties. Because I think that when people are afraid — and terrorism has created fear — then that’s when the greatest danger to civil liberties happens. It’s easy to be for civil liberties when there are no threats. It’s when there are threats that you start seeing civil liberties chipped away at. So I want a President…I want a Supreme Court that is not just giving the President a blank check for whatever power grab he or she is engaging in.

By the way that also means that when I’m President one of the first things I’m going to do is call in my attorney general and say to him or her I want you to review every executive order that’s been issued by George Bush — whether it relates to warrantless wiretaps, or detaining people or reading e-mails, or whatever it is — I want you to go through every single one of them and if they are unconstitutional or they are encroaching on civil liberties unnecessarily we are going to overturn them…we are going to change them.
https://www.mtv.com/videos/news/185105/18-of-21-a-president-who-believes-in-the-constitution.jhtml#id=1572958

Do you know what debate I would really like to see? Candidate Obama vs. President Obama

... and yes i know finding this stuff is unproductive and fruitless
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on December 16, 2011, 05:36:10 PM
It's amazing to think that religion is so far removed from politics in the UK that when the prime minister talks about it once, it actually becomes a huge news story:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-16224394

It's currently the most read article on the BBC
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: jsem on December 16, 2011, 05:45:56 PM
NDAA is complete and utter crap. I can't see how any progressive could support Obama in the next election.

I mean, Rocky Anderson is running a 3rd party bid. Plus, progressives should vote for either Johnson or Paul in the GOP primaries/caucuses anyway.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on December 16, 2011, 05:51:07 PM
i am considering registering republican to do that.


did i just say that

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on December 17, 2011, 08:43:32 AM
Ron Paul on Jay Leno
https://ronpaulflix.com/2011/12/ron-paul-with-jay-leno-dec-16-2011/

Skip to 17:23 for a little nugget of truth and hilarity
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on December 19, 2011, 02:57:43 PM
Nearly 1/3 of Americans are arrested by age 23 (https://www.nytimes.com/2011/12/19/us/nearly-a-third-of-americans-are-arrested-by-23-study-says.html?_r=1&partner=rss&emc=rss)

Whoa.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on December 19, 2011, 03:16:36 PM
Nearly 1/3 of Americans are arrested by age 23 (https://www.nytimes.com/2011/12/19/us/nearly-a-third-of-americans-are-arrested-by-23-study-says.html?_r=1&partner=rss&emc=rss)

Whoa.
Yeah,  23 was about right for me.  Guess I was a late bloomer. 

Of course there doesn't appear to be any differentiating between felonies and misdemeanors.  I'd be one of their statistics,  and I was busted for what amounted to a parking ticket.  If some dickhead cop hadn't impounded our vehicle,  the whole matter would have been <2 hours and $200.  Encounters like that shouldn't really be a statistic. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Riceball on December 19, 2011, 04:48:23 PM
As a user of stats, I say on behalf of stat users everywhere: don't let technicalities get in the way of a good story :P
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on December 26, 2011, 11:53:26 PM
Quote from: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conservative_Bible_Project#Conservative_Bible_Project
Conservapedia hosts the "Conservative Bible Project", a project aiming to rewrite the English translation of the Bible in order to remove terms described as "liberal bias".

lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on December 29, 2011, 12:49:50 PM
CNN is actually discussing Americans Elect.  First mention I've seen of them in the MSM. 
https://www.cnn.com/2011/12/29/politics/americans-elect/index.html?eref=mrss_igoogle_cnn

Interestingly,  they actually do a much better job of explaining Americans Elect than AE does. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on December 29, 2011, 05:08:08 PM
Pushing the dialogue to the center is fine, but the most extreme things our government does are supported by both parties. I'm not concerned about combating extreme right-wing views on gay marriage. Or extreme left-wing...er...there isn't really an extreme left voice in our government today anyway.


Quote
One point of contention is that the group does not disclose the names of its donors, citing its nonprofit status and fears that contributors could find themselves losing potential business or social contacts. Critics contend the secrecy undermines the organization's claims of openness and transparency, and they argue that any group with such a clear electoral goal should not be exempt from disclosure rules governing the Democratic and Republican national committees.
I have a growing feeling that whoever the AE Board vets and becomes the eventual nominee is just going to be another super-rich establishment jerkoff.


Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nick on December 30, 2011, 09:19:01 PM
Edit: Thread coming.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on January 04, 2012, 08:15:42 AM
Number three in this article:

https://www.cracked.com/blog/5-dating-sites-terrible-people-to-find-terrible-love/

Do it.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on January 04, 2012, 10:08:36 AM
Saw this and thought of you, Barto. I can't remember where, but there was some speculation about this in some thread around here.

https://www.allgov.com//ViewNews/TSA_Spreads_to_Trains_Subways_Bus_Terminals_and_Ferries_120104

"The Transportation Security Administration isn't just in airports anymore. TSA teams are increasingly conducting searches and screenings at train stations, subways, ferry terminals and other mass transit locations around the country.

"We are not the Airport Security Administration," said Ray Dineen, the air marshal in charge of the TSA office in Charlotte. "We take that transportation part seriously.""
https://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/nation/la-na-terror-checkpoints-20111220,0,3213641.story
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: GuineaPig on January 04, 2012, 10:37:49 AM
I don't mind the TSA doing stuff like that.  Being visible is part of security, and part of ensuring public trust in transportation.

That being said, airport style screenings must not come to public transport.  It would be a death knell for any attempts to move towards sustainable means of transportation.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on January 04, 2012, 11:03:02 AM
Saw this and thought of you, Barto. I can't remember where, but there was some speculation about this in some thread around here.

https://www.allgov.com//ViewNews/TSA_Spreads_to_Trains_Subways_Bus_Terminals_and_Ferries_120104

"The Transportation Security Administration isn't just in airports anymore. TSA teams are increasingly conducting searches and screenings at train stations, subways, ferry terminals and other mass transit locations around the country.

"We are not the Airport Security Administration," said Ray Dineen, the air marshal in charge of the TSA office in Charlotte. "We take that transportation part seriously.""
https://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/nation/la-na-terror-checkpoints-20111220,0,3213641.story
Like I've said,  security is big money nowadays.  You've got people selling x-ray machines, cameras, scanners, and all sorts of high-tech gizmos,  and they'll keep finding new places for them.  Plus,  you've got all of those ass-hats with the TSA that'd be unemployed if they actually perfected their job.  That's the problem dubbing something a war if there aren't any negative consequences.  There's no incentive to actually win the silly things when you can just go on fighting it indefinitely. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on January 05, 2012, 05:32:06 PM
2012 shouldn't be about the middle class, it should be about people under 35.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Riceball on January 05, 2012, 07:12:52 PM
2012 shouldn't be about the middle class, it should be about people under 35.
:tup
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on January 10, 2012, 08:03:22 AM
Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaand Obama appoints yet another Wall Street goon to his cabinet.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on January 11, 2012, 09:49:50 PM
I don't really have a proper meme image for it, but there needs to be one that reads:

Obamas plant White House vegetable garden and teach kids to eat healthy
Congress names pizza a vegetable

Blame Obama
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on January 12, 2012, 10:16:27 AM
:lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on January 12, 2012, 11:47:39 AM
Reminded me of this:

https://www.onionsportsnetwork.com/articles/presidential-fitness-test-now-awarded-to-any-kid-w,26857/
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on January 12, 2012, 03:19:21 PM
 :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on January 16, 2012, 08:07:34 AM
Chris Hedges is suing the president. lol.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: chknptpie on January 16, 2012, 08:48:56 AM
Chris Hedges is suing the president. lol.

For what?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on January 16, 2012, 10:33:42 AM
He appears to be suing to block the provision of the NDA which allows for the indefinite detention of US citizens based on mere suspicion.  I suspect all but one or two of us think it's dandy that somebody's trying to stop this nonsense,  but I doubt he'll get anywhere.  I envision one of those clusterfucks where he's denied standing to sue since he hasn't actually been detained.  Of course,  people who have been detained will have no opportunity to challenge their detentions in court,  so it's one of those catch-22 type things. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on January 20, 2012, 04:44:42 PM
Picture my friend took outside the library on campus today:

(https://i.imgur.com/aKGP2.jpg)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: jsem on January 21, 2012, 10:50:47 AM
That pic is awesome on so many levels.

:rollin
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on January 23, 2012, 09:11:09 AM
https://www.politico.com/news/stories/0112/71818.html

Quote
Ran Paul was detained 'indefinitely' after refusing a full body pat-down in Nashville. | AP Photo
Close
By TIM MAK | 1/23/12 10:37 AM EST

Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul (R) was detained Monday by the Transportation Security Administration in Nashville, Tenn. after refusing a full body pat-down, POLITICO has confirmed.

“I spoke with him five minutes ago and he was being detained indefinitely,” Paul spokesperson Moira Bagley said Monday morning. “The image scan went off, he refused patdown.”

Paul’s father, Rep. Ron Paul (R-Texas) tweeted out news of the incident, saying that there had been an “anomaly” with a body scanner.

“My son @SenRandPaul being detained by TSA for refusing full body pat-down after anomaly in body scanner in Nashville. More details coming,” wrote the authenticated Twitter account of presidential candidate Ron Paul.

Paul was travelling when he was detained.

The incident was first reported by Bagley on Twitter.

“Just got a call from @senrandpaul. He’s currently being detained by TSA in Nashville,” read her tweet.

Read more: https://www.politico.com/news/stories/0112/71818.html#ixzz1kIYd5Vsq
God damn,  I hope this dude raises all kinds of hell about this. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on January 23, 2012, 09:51:55 AM
Woulda been pretty funny if it had been almost any other senator, but I know Rand opposes this stuff.

Alright, it's still kinda funny.  I agree with you, though.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on January 23, 2012, 10:50:43 AM
Score one for the good [bad] guys.  SCOTUS ruled for Antoine Jones in the warrantless GPS case.  Kind of a mixed bag of opinions,  which should make for some good reading over lunch.  Still,  I'm certainly pleasantly surprised. 

Here's a nifty analysis of the decision.
https://www.scotusblog.com/2012/01/opinion-recap-tight-limit-on-police-gps-use/#more-137614
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on January 23, 2012, 10:56:35 AM
Way to go SCOTUS! Will definitely read soon. Edit: It was unanimous? holy shit.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on January 23, 2012, 12:02:18 PM
Way to go SCOTUS! Will definitely read soon. Edit: It was unanimous? holy shit.
Not exactly.  It was unanimous to overturn the conviction,  but not in the message they sent.  There was a majority opinion and a concurring opinions,  which was also joined by Sotomayer,  making for one clusterfuck of a plural decision.  I haven't gotten to it yet,  but I believe Alito's concurrence will be far short of the important message here.

That message is very important,  and one which I never expected to see.  I thought there was a small chance they'd overturn the conviction based on the trespass component,  but I wouldn't have bet one cent that they actually rule the tracking to constitute a search.  In fact,  that's stated very directly, numerous times in Scalia's majority opinion.  That makes me very happy.  From a footnote of his opinion:

Quote

JUSTICE  ALITO’s concurrence (hereinafter concurrence) doubts the
wisdom of our approach because “it is almost impossible to think of
late-18th-century situations that are analogous to what took place in
this case.”  Post, at 3 (opinion concurring in judgment).  But in fact it
posits a situation that is not far afield—a constable’s concealing himself
in the target’s coach in order to track its movements.  Ibid.  There is no
doubt that the information gained by that trespassory activity would be
the product of an unlawful search—whether that information consisted
of the conversations occurring in the  coach, or of the destinations to
which the coach traveled.
In any case, it is quite irrelevant whether there was an 18th-century
analog.  Whatever new methods of  investigation may be devised, our
task, at a minimum, is to decide whether the action in question would
have constituted a “search” within the original meaning of the Fourth
Amendment.  Where, as here, the Government obtains information by
physically intruding on a constitutionally protected area, such a search
has undoubtedly occurred.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on January 23, 2012, 12:30:18 PM
Ah, that's what I get for reading news headlines. In any event, that's fantastic. Looking forward to checking out the full opinion.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on January 23, 2012, 12:47:18 PM
I was mistaken.  Alito's concurrence actually goes a bit further.

As I understand it (I'm not a lawyer, I don't play one on TV, and I didn't sleep at a Holiday Inn Express last night),  the majority opinion was somewhat narrowly tailored to include the trespass as a component of the search.  In his closing remark,  Scalia said that if it had occurred without the trespass,  they might still decide the same way,  but don't have to worry about it right now.

Alito's concurrence,  joined by Ginsburg, Kagen and Breyer,  was considerably more vague.  They discounted the role of the trespass, but considered it a breach of one's reasonable expectation to privacy,  and therefore a search.

Sotomayer filed a separate concurrence,  which supports both explanations,  and suggests that they need to go quite a bit further in establishing privacy rights in the digital age.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on January 23, 2012, 03:01:39 PM
https://www.politico.com/news/stories/0112/71818.html

Quote
Ran Paul was detained 'indefinitely' after refusing a full body pat-down in Nashville. | AP Photo
Close
By TIM MAK | 1/23/12 10:37 AM EST

Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul (R) was detained Monday by the Transportation Security Administration in Nashville, Tenn. after refusing a full body pat-down, POLITICO has confirmed.

“I spoke with him five minutes ago and he was being detained indefinitely,” Paul spokesperson Moira Bagley said Monday morning. “The image scan went off, he refused patdown.”

Paul’s father, Rep. Ron Paul (R-Texas) tweeted out news of the incident, saying that there had been an “anomaly” with a body scanner.

“My son @SenRandPaul being detained by TSA for refusing full body pat-down after anomaly in body scanner in Nashville. More details coming,” wrote the authenticated Twitter account of presidential candidate Ron Paul.

Paul was travelling when he was detained.

The incident was first reported by Bagley on Twitter.

“Just got a call from @senrandpaul. He’s currently being detained by TSA in Nashville,” read her tweet.

Read more: https://www.politico.com/news/stories/0112/71818.html#ixzz1kIYd5Vsq
God damn,  I hope this dude raises all kinds of hell about this.

Given what I heard, my only problem is the slight hyperbole given to this. "Detained" means he wasn't allowed to board a flight until they had resolved why the scanner went off. Pretty tame, and I'm sure it was rather civil.

That said, I think the TSA procedures are invasive. Some kind of security is warranted, but full body scanners and the level to which we suspect everyone is still too strong of a reaction to 9/11.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on January 23, 2012, 03:42:59 PM
Detention in this case is actually more significant.  When detained by TSA you're not allowed to go home, either.  Once you enter a checkpoint,  you're there's until they either send you forward or backward.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Progmetty on January 24, 2012, 01:34:45 AM
I frankly wish everybody would suck up the TSA shit already. Let the man feel you up and you'll be on your way, are you that worried you might like it?  :o
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on January 24, 2012, 06:21:35 AM
Yeah, I have to be honest, I don't understand the big deal. It hasn't impacted my life in any way.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on January 24, 2012, 08:48:58 AM
As I've pointed out in the past,  my objection isn't that they want to see or feel my dick.  I dislike and distrust authority; always have.  In some cases,  I see that it's warranted and abide it.  In other case,  like this one,  I see it as arbitrary and senseless.  TSA is an unnecessary intrusion that, quite frankly,  exists only to remind us all who's in charge.  I hate to sound like one of Alex Jones' minions,  but this seems more like population control than security.

And let's not forget it's role in the big picture.  It's one more piece in win conjunction with everything else going on,  it's a pretty sorry-ass development. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on January 24, 2012, 09:18:28 AM
That's another thing I don't get: why distrust/reject authority for its own sake? I know I seldom criticize the government, but that doesn't mean I don't get ticked off at times; I just like to think I'm more particular and take things on a case-by-case basis.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on January 31, 2012, 03:07:15 PM
(https://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/402291_10151197625345401_609100400_22059803_1600150878_n.jpg)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on January 31, 2012, 03:15:27 PM
Well, at least they got the countries right I guess. I mean, sure, they said Norwich is London and marked Cornwall as a city, but it's a start.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on January 31, 2012, 06:58:24 PM
American's don't know geography, what's new?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: jsem on February 03, 2012, 11:53:01 AM
American's don't know geography, what's new?
This. Not surprised to see this epic failure tbh.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on February 03, 2012, 01:43:27 PM
Student Arrested for Jailbreaking Game Consoles (https://www.wired.com/threatlevel/2009/08/game-console-jailbreaking-arrest/?utm_source=Contextly&utm_medium=RelatedLinks&utm_campaign=Previous)

Quote
A Southern California man was taken into custody Monday on accusations of running a home business of jailbreaking videogame consoles so they can play pirated games.

Homeland Security authorities arrested Matthew Crippen, 27, from his Anaheim home following his indictment for allegedly breaching the Digital Millennium Copyright Act of 1998. The Cal State Fullerton liberal arts student is accused of hiring himself out to circumvent copyrighted encryption technology on Wii, Playstation and Xbox games.

Prosecutor Mark Krause said in a brief telephone interview that, if the case went to trial, he could prove the illegal activity “a number of times.” The indictment (.pdf) charges Crippen with two counts, carrying a maximum 10-year prison term.

Crippen, in a telephone interview with Threat Level, said the purpose of the jailbreaking was not for illegal piracy, but to allow patrons to use decrypted copies of their own DRM-laden gaming software. The DMCA, however, is not on his side, especially because he is accused of profiting from his hacks.

“This if for your legally made backups. If you’re talking about piracy, I’m not helping you out,” he said.

With the Xbox360, he said, “It’s a given that any game will be scratched in that system. ”

The Entertainment Software Association tipped the Immigration and Customs Enforcement branch of the Homeland Security Department that Crippen was allegedly running the circumvention outfit from his house.

“Playing with games in this way is not a game, it is criminal,” Robert Schoch, an ICE agent, said in a statement.

The authorities said they seized a dozen consoles. Crippen said he charged about $30 a job.

The defendant suspected a former neighbor alerted the Entertainment Software Association. Federal agents then went undercover. “They got two systems done,” Crippen said.

Potential customers were alerted to him, he said, by “mostly word of mouth.”

“There was no advertising. There was none of that shit. I’ll tell you that much,” he said.

The DMCA, the law under which Crippen was charged, says, “no person shall circumvent a technological measure that effectively controls access to a work protected under this title.”

Crippen appeared in Los Angeles federal court late Monday and was released on $5,000 bond.

He said it took about 10 minutes to jailbreak a console.

Where did he learn the skill?

“Google, man.”

The fascinating part of this story, to me anyway,  is that it was Homeland Security that busted the guy.  Seems a little outside of their mandate.

But I doubt we have anything to worry about.  I'm sure they won't expand their scope beyond fighting terrorists and protecting the Entertainment Software Association.   ::)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: chknptpie on February 03, 2012, 02:18:33 PM
I'm not entirely familiar with jailbreaking, especially of consoles... and this sentence is like another language to me:

allow patrons to use decrypted copies of their own DRM-laden gaming software


So what exactly was he doing and how is it illegal?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on February 03, 2012, 02:39:50 PM
I'm not entirely familiar with jailbreaking, especially of consoles... and this sentence is like another language to me:

allow patrons to use decrypted copies of their own DRM-laden gaming software


So what exactly was he doing and how is it illegal?
He was modifying Xboxes and/or PS3's to allow them to play copies of games by circumventing their built in copy protection.  The justification is that people can make copies of games they bought and store the originals in a safe place (the 360 is notorious for scratching the hell out of every disk you put into the thing).  The reality is that it allows people to download pirated versions and play them.  Unlike a computer or a DVD player,  consoles have very stout copy protections built into them,  so the only way to play non-original disks is to hack them (which, last I checked,  involved a new chip and some soldering skills).  He was selling this service.

My point is that the Department of Homeland Security is now raiding people for [fairly mild] instances of copyright infringement. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on February 03, 2012, 02:58:01 PM
Ya, that' a little fucked up.

I thought a judge ruled within the past year or so that jailbreaking was legal? Or did that get overturned, or was it specific to something else?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: chknptpie on February 03, 2012, 03:03:45 PM
I'm not entirely familiar with jailbreaking, especially of consoles... and this sentence is like another language to me:

allow patrons to use decrypted copies of their own DRM-laden gaming software


So what exactly was he doing and how is it illegal?
He was modifying Xboxes and/or PS3's to allow them to play copies of games by circumventing their built in copy protection.  The justification is that people can make copies of games they bought and store the originals in a safe place (the 360 is notorious for scratching the hell out of every disk you put into the thing).  The reality is that it allows people to download pirated versions and play them.  Unlike a computer or a DVD player,  consoles have very stout copy protections built into them,  so the only way to play non-original disks is to hack them (which, last I checked,  involved a new chip and some soldering skills).  He was selling this service.

My point is that the Department of Homeland Security is now raiding people for [fairly mild] instances of copyright infringement.

I definitely understood your point, just wanted to understand exactly what he was doing :)

So could someone also get a game from gamefly or something similar and copy it?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on February 03, 2012, 03:15:53 PM
No.  Anybody could copy it,  but no console would play the duplicate.  Consoles have DVD drives that will only read specially manufactured disks which are only available to game manufactures.  None of us can buy the blank stock.  It'd be like printing fifties on your ink jet printer at home.  To the best of my knowledge,  nobody's ever been able to duplicate those things. 

Moreover,  each console is programmed at the factory to only operate with the DVD drive it was originally built with.  Therefore,  you can't even swap out the drive with one which would play copied disks.  Frankly,  this part of it is kind of bullshit.  Those drives fail at a pretty high rate,  and even though they only cost about $10 on eBay,  they can only be installed by reprogramming the unit--tricky and risky. 

By virtue of their hardware level copy protection,  console games have enjoyed a tremendous amount of protection from counterfeiters.  Anybody can download a PC game.  Almost nobody can play a pirated console game.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: chknptpie on February 03, 2012, 10:23:58 PM
Thanks for the technical info. I had no idea games were that secure.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: hefdaddy42 on February 04, 2012, 02:25:53 PM
(https://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i238/hefdaddy42/motivation/veryfunnynewt.jpg)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sir GuitarCozmo on February 05, 2012, 04:47:24 PM
Did anyone else notice all the people on the Super Bowl who DIDN'T have their hands over their hearts during the National Anthem?  Including servicemen.  I guess it's okay to do that if you aren't a black Democrat in the White House.   :\
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on February 05, 2012, 04:53:04 PM
By virtue of their hardware level copy protection,  console games have enjoyed a tremendous amount of protection from counterfeiters.  Anybody can download a PC game.  Almost nobody can play a pirated console game.
Unless you own a Wii or a PSP. Those are really easy to "jailbreak" via soft mods.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: chknptpie on February 05, 2012, 09:39:44 PM
Did anyone else notice all the people on the Super Bowl who DIDN'T have their hands over their hearts during the National Anthem?  Including servicemen.  I guess it's okay to do that if you aren't a black Democrat in the White House.   :\

What?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sir GuitarCozmo on February 06, 2012, 06:22:39 AM
The following picture has made its way into my inbox a number of times:

(https://i.imgur.com/oVdFy.jpg)

I've seen it on Facebook, in emails, heard about it in discussion, the media has beaten it into the ground - about what an absolute AWFUL abomination of a President this man is for not putting his hand over his heart during the National Anthem.  My dad has cited it as the primary reason he doesn't like Obama.  People get crazy up in arms about it.

My point was that as they were playing the National Anthem at the Super Bowl last night, they showed TONS of people who did not have their hands over their hearts.  INCLUDING servicemen overseas.  So far I haven't heard a peep out of anyone anywhere about it.  And I won't.  People only make a big deal out of it when it's Obama not doing it.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: chknptpie on February 06, 2012, 06:44:38 AM
Ah okay, I have never seen the photo. I don't put my hand on my heart for the anthem and don't think its a requirement.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sir GuitarCozmo on February 06, 2012, 06:52:57 AM
I don't have any problem with it.  The flag code indicates that it's something that should be done, but it also makes mention that "headdress" should be removed and placed over the heart.  It would appear to me that nowadays. it's not really required to place the right hand over the heart any longer.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on February 06, 2012, 08:07:26 AM
The following picture has made its way into my inbox a number of times:

(https://i.imgur.com/oVdFy.jpg)

I've seen it on Facebook, in emails, heard about it in discussion, the media has beaten it into the ground - about what an absolute AWFUL abomination of a President this man is for not putting his hand over his heart during the National Anthem.  My dad has cited it as the primary reason he doesn't like Obama.  People get crazy up in arms about it.

My point was that as they were playing the National Anthem at the Super Bowl last night, they showed TONS of people who did not have their hands over their hearts.  INCLUDING servicemen overseas.  So far I haven't heard a peep out of anyone anywhere about it.  And I won't.  People only make a big deal out of it when it's Obama not doing it.

I guess maybe because they're dying for our country they might get a free pass, but yeah, still.

Ah okay, I have never seen the photo. I don't put my hand on my heart for the anthem and don't think its a requirement.

Which is what makes it so absolutely ridiculous that everyone is getting all up in arms about this with Obama.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sir GuitarCozmo on February 06, 2012, 08:12:06 AM
I guess maybe because they're dying for our country they might get a free pass, but yeah, still.

My thinking was that being in the military, they would be more likely to feel led to do so than your average person.  When they aren't doing it, you know it shouldn't be a big deal if anyone else does or not.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on February 06, 2012, 08:24:04 AM
I thought military guys were supposed to salute, or some dipshit like that.

Me,  I usually just use that as a opportunity to go and get a beer.  I have no interest in participating in any patriotic circle-jerks,  but down here there will be a confrontation if you don't,  and neither fighting off the hoards nor trying to explain to it my reasoning which won't be understood anyway sound very appealing.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MasterShakezula on February 06, 2012, 06:26:17 PM
I've never quite understood the national anthem ritual/pledge of allegiance. 

I mean, I do it so I don't stand out or anything, but I still don't get it.

Are other Western countries as unusually enthusiastic about their pledging allegiance and such? 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on February 06, 2012, 06:27:54 PM
Tons of countries do it, whether Western or not. I think it may be a relic of a different time though, I'm not sure.

Israel does it, and I think Britain and Canada do as well.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on February 06, 2012, 08:22:47 PM
This is brilliant:

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/402342_371649099531216_205344452828349_1376456_534311024_n.jpg)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on February 08, 2012, 05:20:02 PM
(https://29.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lyxs451Uqx1qkt6yoo1_500.png)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Ryzee on February 08, 2012, 05:29:10 PM
That's....amazing, dude  :laugh:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: GuineaPig on February 08, 2012, 05:46:05 PM
There's a tumblr dedicated to those who don't realize The Onion is satirical:

https://literallyunbelievable.org/
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: GuineaPig on February 09, 2012, 12:45:21 PM
There's been an amusing mini-coup in Toronto against the current mayor, Rob Ford.  When Ford came into office, he unilaterally canceled Toronto's existing transit expansion plan, which would fund the creation of five light rail lines for about $10 billion, instead opting to sink all of it into one completely sub-surface LRT and a short subway expansion.

Well, there's been a massive backlash to Ford since his election.  He campaigned on fiscal responsibility (that he never explained how he would implement), vowed to "end the war on cars," won by a significant measure, and has since alienated everyone.  He's an anti-intellectual, petty, slob, who hates compromise.  And much to my delight, the City Council is basically reversing all his decisions and leaving him powerless, with going back to the previous transit plan (called "Transit City") as the biggest push.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MetalMike06 on February 09, 2012, 02:59:37 PM
A friend of a friend on facebook posted a photo of Rick Santorum (met him at some rally). The caption reads:

"I met Rick Santorum this morning. I think he's the only one not corrupted by Washington and big money."
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: GuineaPig on February 09, 2012, 02:59:59 PM
 :rollin
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on February 09, 2012, 03:09:15 PM
Just corrupted by his outdated, backwards worldview I guess :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on February 09, 2012, 03:25:17 PM
Part of being a politician is being able to pull off a completely genuine demeanor when you actually meet people.  It's a lot easier to see somebody as a fake and a douchebag on TV than when you're actually shaking his hand.  The slimy types know how to play off of that. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on February 09, 2012, 04:12:45 PM
I was waiting for one of my professors to arrive to class today and heard this guy behind me talking about how Dr. Paul is so much more qualified than anyone else because he's a doctor and he understands the economy better than anyone else in the country.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on February 09, 2012, 07:41:24 PM
wat
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on February 09, 2012, 09:12:00 PM
A friend of a friend on facebook posted a photo of Rick Santorum (met him at some rally). The caption reads:

"I met Rick Santorum this morning. I think he's the only one not corrupted by Washington and big money."

 :rollin

It's just plain historically wrong. He was one of the most corrupt house members when he was in the Government.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: hefdaddy42 on February 12, 2012, 04:24:44 AM
(https://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i238/hefdaddy42/funny/freedomofreligion.jpg)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: GuineaPig on February 16, 2012, 01:01:47 PM
The Long Gun Registry here in Canada is finally on its way out.

I'm not in the pro-gun rights crowd, but the Long Gun Registry has always been a mess.  It has no effect upon preventing crime, and is much too expensive to run.  Never should have been implemented.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Vivace on February 16, 2012, 01:09:17 PM
Ah okay, I have never seen the photo. I don't put my hand on my heart for the anthem and don't think its a requirement.

This doesn't surprise me. Love is no longer a requirement to marry someone. Having a father and mother are no longer requirements for a family. Cursive writing is no longer a requirement for elementary school.

Wait for it... a new Renaissance is coming. It always does when people stray too far in a direction without a foundation for it to support. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on February 16, 2012, 01:11:17 PM
:orly:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: GuineaPig on February 16, 2012, 01:15:27 PM
God Hates Fags, Loves Cursive Writing
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on February 16, 2012, 01:16:39 PM
:lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: kirksnosehair on February 16, 2012, 01:19:37 PM
(https://29.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lyxs451Uqx1qkt6yoo1_500.png)

(https://www.kirksnosehair.com/Portals/0/images/smilies/tardlol.gif)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Vivace on February 16, 2012, 01:20:03 PM
(https://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i238/hefdaddy42/funny/freedomofreligion.jpg)

One of my biggest questions on this whole thing (which I completely side with the RCC on) is what exactly does it mean that woman cannot control their reproductive health because of someone else's beliefs? Maybe I'm just ignorant to a woman's reproductive system but what exactly does a pill do that is better than sexual abstinence in general? It just seems the problem exists because of a social issue we have created.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Vivace on February 16, 2012, 01:22:01 PM
God Hates Fags, Loves Cursive Writing

er? Your new sign for the protest?  ;D. Cause that's not what I said.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: kirksnosehair on February 16, 2012, 01:26:35 PM
A friend of a friend on facebook posted a photo of Rick Santorum (met him at some rally). The caption reads:

"I met Rick Santorum this morning. I think he's the only one not corrupted by Washington and big money."

From a New York Times piece posted on 2/15/2012 (https://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/16/us/politics/as-rick-santorum-secured-earmarks-2006-donations-flowed-in.html?pagewanted=all)

Quote
But an examination of Mr. Santorum’s earmark record sheds light on another aspect of his political personality, one that is at odds with the reformer image he has tried to convey on the trail: his prowess as a Washington insider.       
 A review of some of his earmarks, viewed alongside his political donations, suggests that the river of federal money Mr. Santorum helped direct to Pennsylvania paid off handsomely in the form of campaign cash.

Rick Santorum is the consummate Washington insider who has long since been bought and owned by his corporate and military industrial complex overlords.  He's also a whack-job.




Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on February 16, 2012, 01:27:50 PM
Ah okay, I have never seen the photo. I don't put my hand on my heart for the anthem and don't think its a requirement.

This doesn't surprise me. Love is no longer a requirement to marry someone. Having a father and mother are no longer requirements for a family. Cursive writing is no longer a requirement for elementary school.

Wait for it... a new Renaissance is coming. It always does when people stray too far in a direction without a foundation for it to support.

I can't tell if this post is a joke or not.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: kirksnosehair on February 16, 2012, 01:31:00 PM
*snipped*

One of my biggest questions on this whole thing (which I completely side with the RCC on) is what exactly does it mean that woman cannot control their reproductive health because of someone else's beliefs? Maybe I'm just ignorant to a woman's reproductive system but what exactly does a pill do that is better than sexual abstinence in general? It just seems the problem exists because of a social issue we have created.

Not sure if seriously asking what the pill does compared to abstinence?  How about it allows my 48 year old wife and I to enjoy an intimate sex life without having to worry about her getting pregnant at her age and without us having to diminish our enjoyment of the experience because I have a hunk of latex covering my johnson?

Let's start there.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on February 16, 2012, 01:34:53 PM
The pill keeps a woman's eggs from dropping into the uterus during ovulation, which means that all eggs are still inside the woman, just that they're not really in a position to be used. It also makes the fallopian tubes stickier so it's harder for sperm travel through it to the egg. Nothing is being "killed" by use of the pill.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on February 16, 2012, 01:46:58 PM
*snipped*

One of my biggest questions on this whole thing (which I completely side with the RCC on) is what exactly does it mean that woman cannot control their reproductive health because of someone else's beliefs? Maybe I'm just ignorant to a woman's reproductive system but what exactly does a pill do that is better than sexual abstinence in general? It just seems the problem exists because of a social issue we have created.

Not sure if seriously asking what the pill does compared to abstinence?  How about it allows my 48 year old wife and I to enjoy an intimate sex life without having to worry about her getting pregnant at her age and without us having to diminish our enjoyment of the experience because I have a hunk of latex covering my johnson?

Let's start there.

I'm pretty sure there's been a variety of health benefits from taking hormonal birth control. It's not just about not getting pregnant, though that's obviously a main one.

https://www.nytimes.com/ref/health/healthguide/esn-contraception-ess.html

Quote
Studies have shown that all those methods reduce the risk of ovarian and endometrial cancer. Some may also help protect against osteoporosis.

Using contraception can also give women a chance to get healthy before they conceive — to stop smoking, lose weight or lower their blood sugar.

If those reasons aren’t enough, ads for pills like Yaz cite beautiful skin and relief from premenstrual bloating and mood swings.



Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: kirksnosehair on February 16, 2012, 01:49:37 PM
^I'm well aware of that, and it's one of the reasons my wife has been on the pill for close to 30 years.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on February 16, 2012, 01:51:16 PM
So actually, now that secondary benefits have been mentioned, I should mention there are some women whose periods are so severe that in the absence of a birth control pill, menstruation is excruciatingly painful. For some it can be so severe that it causes them to vomit whenever they go on their period, or worse.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: kirksnosehair on February 16, 2012, 02:08:07 PM
So actually, now that secondary benefits have been mentioned, I should mention there are some women whose periods are so severe that in the absence of a birth control pill, menstruation is excruciatingly painful. For some it can be so severe that it causes them to vomit whenever they go on their period, or worse.

You could swap out "some women" with "Mrs. NoseHair" here.  That was a big problem for her in the early 90's when she came off the pill for a while due to some other medical issues.  Getting back on the pill deal and it brought an incredible amount of relief.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on February 16, 2012, 02:26:30 PM
It also helps with something called endometriosis, and without the use of the pill, those afflicted could potentially become infertile. The pill delays the process long enough until they're old enough to receive actual treatment.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on February 16, 2012, 03:32:23 PM
^I'm well aware of that, and it's one of the reasons my wife has been on the pill for close to 30 years.

I was chirping in, not rebutting.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: jsem on February 16, 2012, 05:00:30 PM
This whole contraception debate really is distracting from the key issue here.

Government mandates are just wrong. It relies on the use of force, i.e there's always a gun behind a government law, to solve a supposed problem. Government coercing insurance companies to cover birth control is just wrong, there's no reason they shouldn't pay for it themselves - or have private donors paying for it.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: wolfandwolfandwolf on February 21, 2012, 08:52:55 PM
This whole contraception debate really is distracting from the key issue here.

Government mandates are just wrong. It relies on the use of force, i.e there's always a gun behind a government law, to solve a supposed problem. Government coercing insurance companies to cover birth control is just wrong, there's no reason they shouldn't pay for it themselves - or have private donors paying for it.
This is easily the best and most balanced thought I've seen on the issue.  I missed the forest for the trees on this thing entirely and got pissy that people were bothered about the morality issue of birth control.  What you're saying is something else entirely that I'm ashamed I hadn't even thought of.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on February 26, 2012, 06:42:32 AM
God, liberals are insane.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: chknptpie on February 26, 2012, 09:45:51 AM
wha?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on February 26, 2012, 09:46:35 AM
dont be bringing god into this bro
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on February 26, 2012, 05:43:42 PM
wha?

https://www.facebook.com/events/260033744071085/

And I know not everyone agrees with me here on this issue, but there has to be a more moderate way of doing this. And I just thought they were all being huge jerks.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on February 26, 2012, 05:55:01 PM
wha?

https://www.facebook.com/events/260033744071085/

And I know not everyone agrees with me here on this issue, but there has to be a more moderate way of doing this. And I just thought they were all being huge jerks.

I'm sure it will accomplish a lot. I know Bibi doesn't listen to his own citizens or the Palestinians in the slightest, but I'm sure a few Brandies idiots will get his attention. I look forward to all of my countries problems being solved thanks to this brave and original group.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on February 26, 2012, 06:08:24 PM
Oh I realize all that, I'm just sorta peeved about the principle of the whole thing. You'll take my meaning once you read comments by myself, Michelle and Michael and some of the responses tied to them.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on February 29, 2012, 05:58:58 PM
Apparently birthirism is coming back.

 :facepalm:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Riceball on February 29, 2012, 11:27:15 PM
..................che?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on March 01, 2012, 02:28:04 AM
Some (mostly white) people don't seem to be able to accept that Obama is a citizen, and legally allowed to be President. Sherrif Joe formed a posse to investigate it, and they're promising results.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Riceball on March 01, 2012, 02:47:59 AM
Wow.

Australian politics is pretty...silly...most of the time, but thats very silly.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on March 01, 2012, 07:05:26 AM
Because apparently we still haven't laid this one to rest either....

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/64665_302623006472347_217514361649879_832926_380478560_n.jpg)

I'm sure I'm pointing out the obvious here, but I think we've found the new JFK assassination.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nick on March 01, 2012, 07:55:17 AM
Well I know 160 A/E specialists who should lose their license for incompetence...
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on March 01, 2012, 08:33:12 AM
So apparently Andrew Breitbart died...
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on March 01, 2012, 08:34:45 AM
Excuse my ignorance, but who?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on March 01, 2012, 08:40:17 AM
nut job sensationalist blogger

https://www.foxnews.com/politics/2012/03/01/andrew-breitbart-dies-natural-causes-website-reports/
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: wolfandwolfandwolf on March 01, 2012, 08:54:02 AM
Random.  Guy was still pretty young.  I first heard of him when Weinergate broke.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on March 01, 2012, 08:55:00 AM
They're seriously calling it Weinergate? Wow.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on March 01, 2012, 08:55:56 AM
my weinergate is kept well guarded at all times
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: wolfandwolfandwolf on March 01, 2012, 08:56:51 AM
No...I called it that.  :laugh:

EDIT:
my weinergate is kept well guarded at all times
Lol'd pretty hard at that.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Ħ on March 01, 2012, 05:26:23 PM
What's the best way to stay on top of current events? I've always been terrible at this. I don't even know any of the positions of the presidential candidates.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: hefdaddy42 on March 01, 2012, 05:34:19 PM
What's the best way to stay on top of current events? I've always been terrible at this. I don't even know any of the positions of the presidential candidates.
Watch the news, or read news websites.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on March 01, 2012, 05:39:47 PM
What's the best way to stay on top of current events? I've always been terrible at this. I don't even know any of the positions of the presidential candidates.
I set up my browser start page (iGoogle) with a ton of RSS feeds.  Currently:
CNN
Reuters
Google's top stories (draws form all sources, including podunk town newspapers)
FOX
Wired
Techdirt
ESPN
Some entertainment thing

It's constantly updating with current headlines, allowing you to read whatever article looks like it'd interest you.  I set each feed up for 5 headlines, except the Google top stories which is 8 or 9.

I've also go a half dozen or so search boxes, plus some other crap like weather and Cracked/The Onion/TED Talks, etc.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: j on March 01, 2012, 05:44:05 PM
What's the best way to stay on top of current events? I've always been terrible at this. I don't even know any of the positions of the presidential candidates.
I set up my browser start page (iGoogle) with a ton of RSS feeds.  Currently:
CNN
Reuters
Google's top stories (draws form all sources, including podunk town newspapers)
FOX
Wired
Techdirt
ESPN
Some entertainment thing

It's constantly updating with current headlines, allowing you to read whatever article looks like it'd interest you.  I set each feed up for 5 headlines, except the Google top stories which is 8 or 9.

I've also go a half dozen or so search boxes, plus some other crap like weather and Cracked/The Onion/TED Talks, etc.

I do something similar for a small handful of sites.  And for sites I don't care to have immediate feeds from, I just have them bookmarked and I'll look over those when I'm checking my e-mail or have some down time.

-J
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: GuineaPig on March 01, 2012, 06:18:56 PM
What's the best way to stay on top of current events? I've always been terrible at this. I don't even know any of the positions of the presidential candidates.
I set up my browser start page (iGoogle) with a ton of RSS feeds.  Currently:
CNN
Reuters
Google's top stories (draws form all sources, including podunk town newspapers)
FOX
Wired
Techdirt
ESPN
Some entertainment thing

It's constantly updating with current headlines, allowing you to read whatever article looks like it'd interest you.  I set each feed up for 5 headlines, except the Google top stories which is 8 or 9.

I've also go a half dozen or so search boxes, plus some other crap like weather and Cracked/The Onion/TED Talks, etc.

Not the BBC?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: snapple on March 01, 2012, 06:32:41 PM
Fuck Brits  :heart
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on March 01, 2012, 06:36:31 PM
Fuck Brits  :heart
First thing I thought of.  :lol

The BBC and al Jazeera will pop up on the Google feed somewhat regularly.  I kind of had to balance the amount of information on there with the amount that I'd pay attention to.  I've already got 3 columns and it takes 3 pages worth of scrolling to see it all. I tried to cover the ideological spectrum with CNN, Reuters and FOX, and the google mish-mash fills in the gaps.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on March 02, 2012, 04:14:32 AM
Don't worry, I don't read any American news sites :neverusethis:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on March 02, 2012, 11:34:59 AM
Religious lol of the day:

So I'm sure everyone here's pretty familiar with the story of Roman occupation of Judea and why the zealots and other opposition parties formed. In case you're not, the reason is because the Romans asked that, as members of the Roman Empire, we Jews offer a small prayer at the end of our religious rituals basically asking our deity to bless the Caesar. The Jews cried "Blasphemy!" and fought the Romans basically to the death, ending in our exile from our own native homeland and kingdom (again), two millennia of persecution under various emperors and later under kings, czars, and Hitler, coming face-to-face with near extinction, the destruction of the Holy Temple and the theft of its sacred items, and religious subjugation everywhere we went until the last century or so, even in our own country. Now, two thousand years later, most if not all Jewish prayer services include a prayer such that God may blesss "the President, the Vice President, and all constituted officers of this land."

We sure showed them. :facepalm:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: GuineaPig on March 02, 2012, 03:34:29 PM
Iceland is considering adopting the Canadian dollar.

https://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/economy/currencies/iceland-eyes-loonie-canada-ready-to-talk/article2356634/
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on March 03, 2012, 08:01:15 PM
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/424368_376441182366866_114517875225866_1423473_93999465_n.jpg)

It's so weird, I was watching him on TV a few days ago and I was just thinking, "Man, he looks like he belongs in a Steve Carell movie."
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sir GuitarCozmo on March 07, 2012, 09:49:51 AM
I think that from now on, any time someone I know uses the term "founding fathers", I'll ask them "Wait, are you talking about the guys who founded the country, or the Founding Fathers© , who seem to be these mythical beings that always agree with whatever the Republicans say?"
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: hefdaddy42 on March 07, 2012, 09:56:38 AM
lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on March 07, 2012, 09:57:55 AM
:tup
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on March 10, 2012, 07:55:33 AM
They can't be doing this on purpose, right? ...Right?

https://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/opinion/53626155-82/video-public-undercover-whistleblowers.html.csp
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on March 10, 2012, 02:39:02 PM
Quote from: https://www.cracked.com/blog/how-archies-gay-friend-proved-internet-can-do-good/
One Million Moms is a website based on intolerance and the inability to count. It's named the same way a kid might call himself Commander Badass Boobtoucher: desperate wish-fulfillment and blatant lies. Despite being an entirely online group, they only had about 40,000 Facebook fans, an accurate count both of their real support and of how many moms don't know their kids have already blocked them. By their math, I could call my dick the Pleaser of Luxembourg and it would be more accurate, because I'm only short about half a million people.

 :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on March 11, 2012, 08:42:17 AM
https://www.islandpacket.com/2012/01/06/1918776/too-bad-ron-paul-cant-spend-a.html

A great articulation of why I can't personally get behind libertarianism.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on March 11, 2012, 09:02:25 AM
I always shook my head whenever he would talk about the Civil Rights Act.

Anyway I just heard on Meet the Press that a US soldier went on a shooting rampage and killed 16 Afghan civilians in their homes the other day (https://www.cnn.com/2012/03/11/world/asia/afghanistan-us-service-member/index.html?hpt=hp_t1). I wonder why they hate us!

I can only imagine what doesn't get reported.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on March 11, 2012, 01:06:42 PM
I always shook my head whenever he would talk about the Civil Rights Act.

Anyway I just heard on Meet the Press that a US soldier went on a shooting rampage and killed 16 Afghan civilians in their homes the other day (https://www.cnn.com/2012/03/11/world/asia/afghanistan-us-service-member/index.html?hpt=hp_t1). I wonder why they hate us!

I can only imagine what doesn't get reported.

Well, I think it's about high time we get the fuck out of there.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Ħ on March 12, 2012, 12:12:28 AM
Can someone clarify for me the proper use of terms relating to Islam?

So 'Islam' is the religion, and 'Muslim/Moslem' is the believer. But what is the adjective? Is it 'Islamic' or 'Muslim'?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on March 12, 2012, 12:15:25 AM
Can someone clarify for me the proper use of terms relating to Islam?

So 'Islam' is the religion, and 'Muslim/Moslem' is the believer. But what is the adjective? Is it 'Islamic' or 'Muslim'?


Islam is the religion.
Muslim is the believer.
Muslim OR Islamic is the adjective.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on March 12, 2012, 12:44:27 AM
I tend to prefer saying "Islamic."
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on March 12, 2012, 12:36:29 PM
Could The Use Of Flying Death Robots Be Hurting America's Reputation Worldwide? (https://www.theonion.com/video/could-the-use-of-flying-death-robots-be-hurting-am,27601/)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on March 12, 2012, 12:59:23 PM
:lol I liked the one guy, author of War and Peace 2
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Riceball on March 12, 2012, 06:08:16 PM
Fox News Funny of the Week: Krugman a 'menace to society'.

https://krugman.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/03/09/im-honored/
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on March 12, 2012, 10:02:04 PM
Amusing on so many levels:
https://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-lax-bomb-plotter-20120313,0,795680.story
Quote
A 22-year sentence was unreasonably lenient for Al Qaeda-trained terrorist Ahmed Ressam, who drove a trunk full of powerful explosives into the United States from Canada with the intent of bombing Los Angeles International Airport, a federal appeals court ruled Monday.

The 7-4 ruling by the full U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals sent the case back to a Seattle federal judge for resentencing with the recommendation that the Algerian-born prisoner be given a term more in line with federal sentencing guidelines that call for 65 years to life for the offenses for which Ressam was convicted.

Disputes over the appropriate punishment for Ressam have roiled the federal courts for more than a decade, as the young Algerian, who was intercepted as he entered Washington state on a ferry from Canada, initially cooperated with U.S. counterterrorism agents, exposing the inner workings of the global terror network and helping identify and convict other extremists.

But Ressam ceased cooperating with national security agents after two years, citing a fading memory and mental trauma from his harsh confinement at a federal detention facility in Seattle.

U.S. District Judge John Coughenour, who oversaw Ressam's 2001 trial and conviction on nine criminal charges, sentenced Ressam to 22 years in 2005, rejecting the government's urging of at least a 35-year term. Coughenour said the need to balance the severity of Ressam's planned attack and his contributions to the fight against terror was the most difficult decision he faced in 24 years on the federal bench. Ressam had identified 150 jihadists to U.S. intelligence agents and testified in two trials that resulted in convictions, the judge noted.

The government appealed, and a three-judge panel of the 9th Circuit struck down the sentence on procedural grounds in 2008. The U.S. Supreme Court overturned the 9th Circuit, sending the case back to Coughenour, who again imposed the 22-year term. A 9th Circuit panel vacated that sentence two years ago and ordered that a different judge decide how much time Ressam should serve.

That order was put on hold when the appeals court agreed to reconsider the case with a full 11-judge panel last year, leading to Monday's ruling that 22 years was too light a sentence for the serious terrorism offenses for which Ressam was convicted.

The 11-judge panel said a more appropriate sentence would be in the range set by federal guidelines, suggesting that Ressam remain in prison for what may be the rest of his life. The four dissenting judges, all appointees of Democratic presidents, said the district court's judgment should be respected.

Ressam would be 51 when released from prison if the 22-year sentence were left in place, the appeals court majority pointed out. The judges agreed with the government that national security could be in jeopardy if Ressam were freed at that relatively young age.

When the full 9th circuit overturns your decision as being too soft on crime, you've done something that violates the metaphysical laws of the universe.

The guy was inept enough to get nabbed almost immediately, and chickenshit enough to roll over on all of his friends over a two year span.  It seems to me that the risk of his someday being released is mitigated by the benefit of his someday being released.

This is why you never tell a detective anything other than "I'd like to speak with my attorney" and "go fuck yourself!"  They used him as a rat for two years, promising him a lenient sentence, and then spent 6 years appealing his sentence because it was lenient.  Don't cooperate with people who can't be trusted!
Quote
Bing, what are you doing here? I thought I told you to go fuck your mother!

Is 22 years in a federal super-max really lenient?  The risk of the guy being released after that long is that you'll have to support his non-functional ass for the next 22 years in the federal loony bin.  That's right about the time that they'll be wheeling Hinkley's dead ass out, so they can give him his room. 

It seems to me that there are really only two sentences here.  The rest of your life in prison, or half of your life in prison.  Is there any way for the former to be considered lenient? 

What's the point of allowing a judge to issue a sentence if you can overrule it on the basis that you don't like it?  This isn't a matter of being procedurally or factually wrong.  They just don't think it's cool.  The Man seeks to take a decision made by a person charged with rendering it, who used his professional judgement to mitigate punishment and reward, and toss it in lieu of an arbitrary one.  Not cool. 

Quote
Investigators found powerful explosives hidden in the wheel well of the rental car "capable of producing a blast 40 times greater than that of a devastating car bomb," court records show.
WTF does this mean!


Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on March 13, 2012, 04:34:57 PM
This week's lulz brought to you by the Telegraph (vis-a-vis HuffPost):

https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/03/12/do-christians-have-right-wear-cross-crucifix-british-government-trial-case_n_1339460.html?ref=religion
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on March 13, 2012, 09:30:16 PM
Space Station Columbia (https://www.wired.com/wiredscience/2012/03/space-station-columbia-1991/)

This is plenty damned fascinating.  In 1991, a private company submitted their proposal for a permanent space station, while NASA busy was trying to figure out how to build Freedom (renamed the International Space Station).  It used a stripped down version of a space shuttle, Columbia was their suggestion, and would have been baseline operational after the first mission.  By the second it would have had the operational capacity that ISS wasn't projected to reach until it's MB-13.  It would have maxed out at 24,000 cubic feet of pressurized workspace after MB-5; still a few years prior to the ISS being operational at all. 

I'd never heard of this before, but it seemed like a pretty nifty idea.  I suspect that the eventual design of the ISS was a better quality platform, but I also figure that the ODS could have been upgraded quite a bit, as well.  Unfortunately, NASA tends to prefer sexier ideas to practical ones.  That's always been it's biggest failing, IMO.  When they do take the practical approach they usually do pretty well.  When they try to take the flashy route, the result is usually wasted money, misguided programs, and charred corpses. 

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on March 13, 2012, 11:48:30 PM
All of this is why I hate people complaining about "those goddamned politicians:"

https://campaignstops.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/03/12/the-hypocrite-in-everyone-else/
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on March 14, 2012, 08:42:47 AM
And now a little bit of the lighter side of internet politicking:

(https://i3.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/newsfeed/000/222/965/lib.jpg)

(https://dissention.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/35kjgk.jpg)

(https://i3.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/newsfeed/000/225/284/35kdvz.jpg)

(https://dissention.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/35kl8j.jpg)

(https://i1.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/newsfeed/000/225/295/35kb09.jpg)

(https://i0.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/newsfeed/000/249/907/88c.jpg)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on March 14, 2012, 03:52:12 PM
:lol

Are those just random people or what?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on March 14, 2012, 04:43:39 PM
The guy apparently is the president of the Berkeley College Republican Club. Harriet Potter I have no idea.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Ryzee on March 14, 2012, 04:54:34 PM
 :lol  That's good stuff man, and holy shit hippy chick does look exactly like Dan Radcliffe/Harry Potter!
The guy reminds me of David Spade's character in PCU.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on March 14, 2012, 06:57:58 PM
Harriet Potter :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: MetalMike06 on March 14, 2012, 07:19:51 PM
https://www.ricksantorum.com/enforcing-laws-against-illegal-pornography

Quote
For many decades, the American public has actively petitioned the United States Congress for laws prohibiting distribution of hard-core adult pornography.

Congress has responded.  Current federal “obscenity” laws prohibit distribution of hardcore (obscene) pornography on the Internet, on cable/satellite TV, on hotel/motel TV, in retail shops and through the mail or by common carrier. Rick Santorum believes that federal obscenity laws should be vigorously enforced.  “If elected President, I will appoint an Attorney General who will do so.” 

Quote
The Obama Administration has turned a blind eye to those who wish to preserve our culture from the scourge of pornography and has refused to enforce obscenity laws. While the Obama Department of Justice seems to favor pornographers over children and families, that will change under a Santorum Administration.

Good luck bro
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on March 14, 2012, 07:27:09 PM
Quote
Current federal “obscenity” laws prohibit distribution of hardcore (obscene) pornography on the Internet, on cable/satellite TV, on hotel/motel TV, in retail shops and through the mail or by common carrier

Is any of this actually true?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on March 14, 2012, 09:04:22 PM
Quote
Current federal “obscenity” laws prohibit distribution of hardcore (obscene) pornography on the Internet, on cable/satellite TV, on hotel/motel TV, in retail shops and through the mail or by common carrier

Is any of this actually true?

I dunno. I can order porn in a hotel/motel, but it's mostly softcore, so he might be correct. But there is definitely hardcore on the internet. But not all of it is legally distributed.

Hmm...
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on March 14, 2012, 09:51:03 PM
Quote
Current federal “obscenity” laws prohibit distribution of hardcore (obscene) pornography on the Internet, on cable/satellite TV, on hotel/motel TV, in retail shops and through the mail or by common carrier

Is any of this actually true?
Absolutely true.  The important part is what constitutes obscenity as opposed to indecency.  Chimpy's AG went after pornographers pretty hard, but they don't have much success.  You really have to get into some pretty nasty shit to run afoul of Miller.  It also helps if The Man orders your smut from someplace particularly wholesome, so when he drags John Q. Smutpeddler across the country to be judged, it's in accordance with the community standards of a town that considers sex with the lights on to be sodomy.

Under Ashcroft, they mainly just brought charges against people to be a pain in the ass in the hopes of stifling their productions.  To this end they were actually pretty successful.  Most people would prefer to settle than risk a few years in prison.  I know of one company (which I won't name here) that packed up and folded because America was no longer a climate that the owner felt safe working in.  There's also a pretty long list of things you won't see in mainstream, Hollywood porn anymore.  Lastly, they occasionally win a case here or there.  I've mentioned Max Steiner before.  They tried him countless times until they finally won a case, and stuck him in a federal pen for a few years. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on March 14, 2012, 09:59:39 PM
I'm not really familiar with federal trials or anything, but does that basically mean that a federal obscenity case out in Bumfuck Kansas sets a precedent for the rest of the country?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on March 14, 2012, 10:47:25 PM
No.  It'd only mean that the video in question was deemed obscene in Bumfuck.  Obscenity is a localized thing.  What will fly in San Francisco will probably get shot down in Bumfuck. 

Quote
The Miller test was developed in the 1973 case Miller v. California.[2] It has three parts:

    Whether "the average person, applying contemporary community standards", would find that the work, taken as a whole, appeals to the prurient interest,
    Whether the work depicts/describes, in a patently offensive way, sexual conduct specifically defined by applicable state law,
    Whether the work, taken as a whole, lacks serious literary, artistic, political or scientific value.[3]

The work is considered obscene only if all three conditions are satisfied.

Even in Bumfuck, the third condition is still pretty dicey to an open-minded jury.  Like I said, they didn't win many cases, but brought plenty of them because the threat itself was very strong deterrence.  The point was just to scare the hell out of the producers, and they were fairly successful.   
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on March 14, 2012, 10:59:00 PM
So it's a localized thing, but it's still tried at a federal level?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on March 14, 2012, 11:23:38 PM
It's gotta be tried somewhere.  However, I suppose it'd have to be in some place with a federal court, which presumably Bumfuck would not.  Looking over US v. Extreme Associates, they picked Western Pennsylvania as a socially conservative venue.  All that'd be required is to order the videos sent to some place within the district you wish to try the case. 

BTW, it looks like the folks in the Extreme Associates case (husband and wife) got convicted after all.  Initially, their case had been dismissed (after a fairly long ordeal), which was the last I heard about it.  The DOJ appealed the decision and won, and SCOTUS upheld that decision.  After 5 years of precedings that made it all the way to the SCOTUS, they didn't have the money left to fight the charges and copped out. One year and one day, which they have now served. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: pogoowner on March 15, 2012, 10:45:17 AM
they picked Western Pennsylvania as a socially conservative venue
As a resident of Western Pennsylvania, I will say that they knew what they were doing when they made that choice.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on March 15, 2012, 11:48:25 AM
they picked Western Pennsylvania as a socially conservative venue
As a resident of Western Pennsylvania, I will say that they knew what they were doing when they made that choice.
Didn't really matter, though.  It seems that a jury never heard any of it.  The legal wrangling before hand exhausted their ability to defend themselves at all.

Frankly, the whole thing's really repugnant.  What they're doing is applying the community standards of one locality to something made elsewhere, solely on the basis that somebody there could order it if they so desired.  It's not like California is foisting this up a bunch of Amish in Pennsylvania.  California is making something available only to people who actually want to purchase it, and the people of Pennsylvania are prosecuting them because some of their citizens might actually want to buy it. 

Alas, this is all a function of the Burger court.  In the late 60's/early 70's they heard a plethora of obscenity cases, culminating in Miller.  The upshot of it all was that the law can't prevent a person from possessing obscene material.  The law can prevent it from being disseminated within a jurisdiction.  The bummer part of that is that it includes mail order materials, so even though it's legal to possess porn in Bumfuck, it's not legal to obtain there.  Compounding this is that the same standard was applied to the internet.  The folks in Bumfuck can therefore prosecute the people who run an adult website, but not the person who downloaded the material.

The only saving grace is that each bit of material has to be deemed obscene, and rarely do communities care enough to actually take it to court to find out.  Every day juries would be having to decide if Back Door Sluts 9 was obscene, even though 8 and 10 were already deemed acceptable.  What has happened is that certain acts greatly increase the likelihood of getting that conviction, which created an enormous chilling effect in American pr0n. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on March 15, 2012, 11:56:25 AM
How do you know all this stuff?!

edit: to add, somewhat tangentially, to the conversation I came across a great article in The New Yorker (https://www.newyorker.com/arts/critics/books/2012/03/12/120312crbo_books_lithwick#ixzz1pD3Ja8Ab) about the circumstances surrounding Lawrence v. Texas (2003 case holding laws prohibiting homosexual sodomy are unconstitutional).

The gist of it:
Quote
That’s the punch line: the case that affirmed the right of gay couples to have consensual sex in private spaces seems to have involved two men who were neither a couple nor having sex. In order to appeal to the conservative Justices on the high court, the story of a booze-soaked quarrel was repackaged as a love story. Nobody had to know that the gay-rights case of the century was actually about three or four men getting drunk in front of a television in a Harris County apartment decorated with bad James Dean erotica.


Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on March 15, 2012, 12:24:48 PM
When I walk in the evenings I'll frequently listen to oral arguments from the SCOTUS.  First amendment cases intrigue me (and that's what we're dealing with here), as does pornography.  I listened to quite a few of the Burger cases.  Add to that my disgust with Ashcroft and Gonzalez,  which led me to check out some of their prosecutions of smut peddlers.  I was following AE, Max Steiner and a one or two others pretty closely.

I also listened to the arguments for Lawrence, and don't recall any of that being in the case.  If it's still in my phone I'll check it out again in the shop, as I recall they did go into some detail about what Johnny found when he went barging in.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on March 15, 2012, 01:22:24 PM
The idea that a website owner can be charged for distributing porn to a given jurisdiction is fucking absurd. Don't get me wrong, the idea of obscenity laws in general are pretty absurd, but jesus.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on March 15, 2012, 01:46:52 PM
The idea that a website owner can be charged for distributing porn to a given jurisdiction is fucking absurd. Don't get me wrong, the idea of obscenity laws in general are pretty absurd, but jesus.
It's worse than that.  The website is charged for merely making it available, which is passive.  Distribution implies that they were actively trying to get it into the jurisdiction.



How do you know all this stuff?!

edit: to add, somewhat tangentially, to the conversation I came across a great article in The New Yorker (https://www.newyorker.com/arts/critics/books/2012/03/12/120312crbo_books_lithwick#ixzz1pD3Ja8Ab) about the circumstances surrounding Lawrence v. Texas (2003 case holding laws prohibiting homosexual sodomy are unconstitutional).

The gist of it:
Quote
That’s the punch line: the case that affirmed the right of gay couples to have consensual sex in private spaces seems to have involved two men who were neither a couple nor having sex. In order to appeal to the conservative Justices on the high court, the story of a booze-soaked quarrel was repackaged as a love story. Nobody had to know that the gay-rights case of the century was actually about three or four men getting drunk in front of a television in a Harris County apartment decorated with bad James Dean erotica.
Interesting read, now that I got around to it.  And in the oral arguments, the only references are to being accused of, and of defending their rights to commit such conduct.

Fascinating aspect that I'd forgotten about.  The State's argument to the equal protection challenge was that the law didn't bar homosexuals from committing such conduct.  It barred all people from committing homosexual conduct.  That's a damned interesting distinction, if you think about it.   I haven't gotten to the opinions yet, but I can certainly see how that would sway some of them away from that challenge.  It might even hold with me.  Factor that in with their fundamental disregard for due process and I can understand how the conservative bloc dissented (though I obviously disagree with them). 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on March 15, 2012, 03:12:35 PM
I haven't listened to the parties' oral arguments or read their briefs, but Justice Kennedy in the majority opinion quites from the Texas law in question: "A person commits an offense if he engages in deviate sexual intercourse with another individual of the same sex"

In fact, I believe that was the main reason Justice O'Connor changed her position from Bowers v. Hardwick.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on March 15, 2012, 03:55:56 PM
The majority decision was based on the due process challenge.  They did not agree with the equal rights challenge, although I suppose that might be why SDO wrote her separate concurrence.  I haven't read it, but I just listened to the arguments and decision summaries.

Honestly, the state's position on the equal rights aspect is compelling.  There is no class that they're discriminating against, as they're prohibiting straight or bisexual people from the same action.

On a side note, it was a pretty bad showing for Scalia.  Aside from coming off as a snarky douchbag in his dissent announcement, his behavior during the arugments was pretty questionable as well.  The State's counselor wasn't particularly adept, and there were several instances of Scalia helping him out, almost to the point of prompting him.  I've listened to a lot of cases and I don't recall every hearing such behavior.  Given his attitude during questioning and the amount of emphasis he placed on the outcome of this leading straight to the legalization of gay marriage, which had absolutely no bearing on the matter at hand,  it really seemed as if he was just acting on personal interests and opinion.  I don't much care for the guy, but this is the first time I've really thought he was just doing what he wanted to see happen.

Here's audio of the arguments and announcements, if anybody's interested:  https://www.oyez.org/cases/2000-2009/2002/2002_02_102#argument
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on March 16, 2012, 01:33:45 AM

Honestly, the state's position on the equal rights aspect is compelling.  There is no class that they're discriminating against, as they're prohibiting straight or bisexual people from the same action.

This isn't true though. The law facially discriminates against homosexuals. The majority and the concurrence both refer to the law as prohibiting gay sex only.

And I have a begrudging respect for Scalia. I don't really ever agree with him but his dissents are usually great reads. His dissent in Lawrence was just really hard to stomach.

I'm gonna check out the oral argument.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on March 16, 2012, 08:36:27 AM
The law doesn't single out a class of individuals, which is the key.  It singles out an activity that anybody can engage in, but is usually practiced by homosexuals.  It's a subtle distinction, but one that I can see them hanging their hats on. 

It occurs to me that a more valid argument for the equal protection aspect wasn't presented.  What the law did is to preclude people from committing the same act based on their own sex.  According to the statute, women could give all the blowjobs they wanted, while men were legally prevented from giving any.  Since I gather that some people of both genders enjoy giving blowjobs, you're now denying a specific right to one group based on their gender.

It's a simple matter of the way it was presentec.  Petitioners claim that the class effected was homosexuals.  What they should have claimed was that the class effected was men.  They might have had something with that. 

I'm gonna check out the oral argument.
Pay attention to when Breyer starts going to work on Rosenthal, who's pretty clearly outmatched.  Scalia will start asking him questions and then answering them to address Breyer's arguments.  It was pretty clear he was trying help the guy out.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on March 16, 2012, 08:40:00 AM
Wait, hold on. How is This

"A person commits an offense if he engages in deviate sexual intercourse with another individual of the same sex"

not singling out a class of individuals? What non-gay man gives blowies?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on March 16, 2012, 08:45:55 AM
Bisexuals.  Men who experiment as youngsters.  Rape victims.

Look, I get that the practical effect is to single out homos, but I don't think that's necessarily the same as making a law specifically citing them as a class.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on March 16, 2012, 08:55:50 AM
I suppose so. It's certainly an interesting argument. I listened to the petitoner's argument last night - Scalia was really on him from the get go.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on March 16, 2012, 09:03:33 AM
Scalia is generally pretty even handed in his questioning; that's what makes him so hard to predict.  Like I said, the state's petitioner was fairly weak, and I think that made a difference in Scalia's approach.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on March 16, 2012, 03:20:42 PM
Just listened to the other argument...my god I have never heard anything like that before. Scalia was straight up making the guy's arguments for him when he felt Rosenthal's answers weren't sufficient.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: GuineaPig on March 16, 2012, 05:19:51 PM
An interesting article about how transit funding in the US is often used to fund roads. (https://pedestrianobservations.wordpress.com/2012/03/15/surreptitious-underfunding/)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on March 17, 2012, 07:47:23 AM
We should be going after corporate America and the military-industrial complex and try to rein them in, not totally dismantle them or blame it entirely on the government.

https://www.peoplesworld.org/heat-ray-weapon-a-threat-to-collective-action/
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on March 17, 2012, 09:26:24 PM
Do you guys think this is legit? Because something about it smells fishy to me, and I'm usually the guy with an interest in having this be true.

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/427624_370255596330480_5392351_n.jpg)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on March 17, 2012, 09:36:56 PM
https://www2.ucsc.edu/whorulesamerica/power/wealth.html

Don't have the time to look at it (two finals on monday woop woop), but I have a hard time taking a UCSC hosted webpage called "Who Rules America" seriously.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: YtseBitsySpider on March 19, 2012, 08:27:04 AM
oh...wow.....humans are evil.

https://www.cnn.com/interactive/2012/03/world/mauritania.slaverys.last.stronghold/index.html?hpt=hp_c1

after reading this article I wondered though....as I did with the Somalia thing when Canadian peace keepers and our Airborn unit were told to sit on their hands while 700,000 people were slaughtered.......

is it our place to act in situations like this.
these countries are progressing through their history at different times than us.
The American Civil war, slavery, women's right to vote.
USA has gone through these struggles.
Are we morally obligated to force our "don't do this" attitude on these nations?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on March 19, 2012, 08:37:47 AM
European nations including Britain did the same for the US back in the mid-1800s. Sure, it didn't work out the way they hoped, but it's not like they didn't do it.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: YtseBitsySpider on March 19, 2012, 09:06:56 AM
the Crusades?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on March 19, 2012, 09:17:39 AM
Que?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on March 20, 2012, 09:04:52 PM
Just fyi Ytse, I didn't understand that comment.

In other news, an interesting read in the saga of the Culture War: https://campaignstops.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/03/17/forget-the-money-follow-the-sacredness/?partner=rss&emc=rss#
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on March 21, 2012, 01:00:11 PM
Fox News strikes again:

(https://i.imgur.com/h8NeV.jpg)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on March 21, 2012, 03:39:03 PM
Wow.  I certainly understand why they'd throw in the apology to the Asian community; misguided apologies are a staple of anti-liberalism.  What I don't get is why they wanted it to be a Buddhist.  I would have thought they'd be calling him a Muslim under any circumstances.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: GuineaPig on March 21, 2012, 04:03:16 PM
Wow.  I certainly understand why they'd throw in the apology to the Asian community; misguided apologies are a staple of anti-liberalism.  What I don't get is why they wanted it to be a Buddhist.  I would have thought they'd be calling him a Muslim under any circumstances.

Because it's fake.

C'mon guys.  Let's have a little skepticism here.

(https://www.mediabistro.com/tvnewser/files/2011/06/FNCPalin.jpg)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on March 21, 2012, 04:58:36 PM
Okey dokey, then. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on March 21, 2012, 06:23:47 PM
Meh, the fact that I just expected Fox to do something like that says something about them really.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Riceball on March 21, 2012, 06:32:50 PM
I don't think this needs its own thread, but based on the figures presented here (https://www.watoday.com.au/opinion/society-and-culture/icash-flow-apple-aims-for-a-trillion-and-history-20120321-1vk0m.html), Apple is the 21st largest country in the world (in USD terms, not PPP terms I couldn't find that on short notice).

Now market cap =/= GDP, but its a reasonable comparison to make for mine.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on March 21, 2012, 06:35:18 PM
The BBC had a decent article on that recently:

"Is Apple really worth more than Poland?"

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-17344386

Quote
"At $500 billion, Apple is worth more than Poland" - so shouted the headlines last week. Can the technology giant really be worth more than this entire country? No, and here's why.

CNN started this news line, which was picked up by media organisations around the world.

It seems like an amazing fact - that Apple's stock market value, or market cap, of $506bn (£323bn) makes it worth more than Poland, whose Gross Domestic Product is about $470bn (£300bn).

This would make Apple around the 20th biggest economy in the world.

But it is not true. It makes no sense to compare the two like this. You might as well compare… apples and pears.

This is because the market value of a company is linked to the expected value of all future profits. GDP, on the other hand, is a measure of the value of goods and services a country has produced in a single year.

It is possible to compare the size of a company and a country, but it has to be done properly, says Prof Paul De Grauwe, of the London School of Economics.

"We would have to make a forecast of future growth of GDP in Poland, and then you would take the present value and use an interest rate," he says.

"My guess is that it would multiply the Polish number by a factor of at least five."

This would give Poland a comparative value of almost $2.5 trillion (£1.6tn), putting it well ahead of Apple.

There is another respectable way to compare the two. For this, calculate Apple's "added value" and compare that to Poland's GDP. (The Financial Times' business glossary defines added value as "an increase in the value of something that has been worked on, so that it can be sold in a new form".)

This makes sense because GDP is essentially a measure of a country's added value - it is the value of all the goods and services there, minus anything that has been imported.

"We would take the sales of Apple and subtract everything that is in the iPhone, but that Apple has not produced itself," De Grauwe says.

"For example, some chips, or the screen, which has been produced in China somewhere. And the difference then is what you could call the value added by Apple. And that we compare with GDP which is the value added in Poland."

Apple's relative value would shrink four or five-fold if you did the comparison this way, De Grauwe estimates. This would make it the 56th largest economy in the world, not the 20th. It would be 36 places behind Poland, just ahead of Bangladesh and just behind Vietnam.

Even with these corrections, it is true that Apple is a big company.

But if a company is bigger than a country, does that mean it is more powerful?

Not necessarily, says De Grauwe.

"Just looking at the size doesn't tell us much about relative power of the company v the country. Countries are still sovereign in the sense they can set the rules of the game. They can tax companies, and they do."

And he points out that companies tend to have much more dramatic ups and downs in their fortunes than countries. The market cap - properly called "market capitalisation" - of a company is calculated by multiplying the current value of a single one of its shares by the number of shares in existence.

"When you take the market cap of a company like Apple this can change very quickly," says De Grauwe. "It is quite possible that in five years the market cap of Apple could have dropped to $100bn or $200bn.

"Look what happened to Microsoft. Not so long ago Microsoft was the biggest company in the world. Now it has weighed down. The price of a company's shares can move up a lot, but can [also] crash."
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Riceball on March 21, 2012, 06:37:41 PM
I agree with everything in that article :lol

Still, being the 56th largest economy in the world - its pretty intense for a corporation to be that big.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on March 22, 2012, 12:13:01 PM
Creator of "Don't Re-Nig 2012" bumper sticker says it's not racist (https://www.forbes.com/sites/rogerfriedman/2012/03/17/exclusive-seller-of-controversial-anti-obama-sticker-says-its-not-racist/)

lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Ryzee on March 22, 2012, 12:24:03 PM
 :lol  Yeah one of my facebook friends posted that yesterday I think.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on March 22, 2012, 12:53:45 PM
Creator of "Don't Re-Nig 2012" bumper sticker says it's not racist (https://www.forbes.com/sites/rogerfriedman/2012/03/17/exclusive-seller-of-controversial-anti-obama-sticker-says-its-not-racist/)

lol

https://teamcoco.com/video/deon-cole-bumper-sticker


Well, she's even more of a moron then... seeing as how she's actually saying re-elect Obama.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on March 26, 2012, 11:05:10 PM
So there's something I don't get in the Trayvon case...  Zimmerman argument is that he was acting in self-defense, and he showed signs of being attacked, and witnesses report Trayvon being on top of Zimmerman. Well, if Zimmerman was following Trayvon, and Trayvon felt threatened, wouldn't he have been defending himself? If he was defending himself, how could Zimmerman be defending himself?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on March 26, 2012, 11:41:55 PM
This whole thing is just a big mess. I've been trying not to get involved.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on March 27, 2012, 08:39:14 AM
So there's something I don't get in the Trayvon case...  Zimmerman argument is that he was acting in self-defense, and he showed signs of being attacked, and witnesses report Trayvon being on top of Zimmerman. Well, if Zimmerman was following Trayvon, and Trayvon felt threatened, wouldn't he have been defending himself? If he was defending himself, how could Zimmerman be defending himself?
I considered the same thing this morning.  My best guess is that being followed isn't a legal excuse for attacking someone. 

I agree with the FL AG.  They seem to have gone out seeking to fix something that wasn't broken, and created quite a mess in the process.  After listening to Zimmerman's 911 call, I've no doubt that he felt threatened, yet it does seem to be a situation that he could have avoided.  The problem is that use of force can now be considered a first option instead of a last resort.  The traditional version of self defense statutes probably would have compelled Zimmerman to avoid the confrontation in the first place, and would have done nothing whatsoever to prevent him from defending himself had he needed to. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on March 27, 2012, 08:46:08 AM
I don't say this much, but interesting Cracked article: https://www.cracked.com/article_19785_5-ways-modern-men-are-trained-to-hate-women.html

File this under gender relations, which I never realized how truly fucked up they are.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Ryzee on March 27, 2012, 09:34:39 AM
So there's something I don't get in the Trayvon case...  Zimmerman argument is that he was acting in self-defense, and he showed signs of being attacked, and witnesses report Trayvon being on top of Zimmerman. Well, if Zimmerman was following Trayvon, and Trayvon felt threatened, wouldn't he have been defending himself? If he was defending himself, how could Zimmerman be defending himself?
I considered the same thing this morning.  My best guess is that being followed isn't a legal excuse for attacking someone. 

I agree with the FL AG.  They seem to have gone out seeking to fix something that wasn't broken, and created quite a mess in the process.  After listening to Zimmerman's 911 call, I've no doubt that he felt threatened, yet it does seem to be a situation that he could have avoided.  The problem is that use of force can now be considered a first option instead of a last resort.  The traditional version of self defense statutes probably would have compelled Zimmerman to avoid the confrontation in the first place, and would have done nothing whatsoever to prevent him from defending himself had he needed to.

Here's what I don't get about this whole thing.  Even if Trayvon was the one who attacked Zimmerman, has it come out that Trayvon was armed with something?  Even like a knife or something?  Because even if Zimmerman was completely getting his ass beat, and I understand using deadly force to defend yourself if you feel that your life is in danger, since when is it ok to shoot somebody who is unarmed?  How is your life in danger when somebody is attacking you unarmed, unless the person attacking you is the size of Shaq or Gregor Clegane or something?  Is Zimmerman trying to imply that he thought Trayvon was going to kill him with his bare hands, and he had no choice but to shoot him to protect his own life?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on March 27, 2012, 10:01:29 AM
Well for one thing, I believe Zimmerman stated that he thought Travon was going for his gun. 

Aside from that, one of the purposes of the so-called stand your ground legislation is that a person in GZ's position is under no obligation to wait and see how badly a person might harm him, and I agree with that reasoning.  Plenty of people do get beaten to death by unarmed assailants, and I'm not going to wait around to find out if some guy is going to only beat me up for 3 minutes before leaving, or continue beating me until I'm the late El Barto.

Traditionally, the word reasonably comes into play, and a jury would determine if you got it right.  Here in Tejas:
Quote from: The Man
a person is justified in using force against
another when and to the degree he reasonably believes the force is
immediately necessary to protect himself against the other's use or
attempted use of unlawful force.
There are two important aspects of that.  "When and to the degree" establishes a continuum.  Force from both parties escalates.  A jury would determine if deadly force was reasonable under the circumstances, and in this situation it might or might not have been.  The fact that Travon was unarmed is only one component.

The second part is "reasonably believes." Another thing a jury would have to consider.  Also something that might well fall onto Zimmerman's side in this instance.  After listening to the 911 call,  I believe GZ had a reasonable belief that Travon posed a threat. 

Where Zimmerman would fall afoul of the Texas statute is going back to that continuum, he probably could have avoided the confrontation, and he should have been obligated to do so. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Ryzee on March 27, 2012, 10:40:05 AM
Right on.  I don't know, the notion that one grown man needed to use a firearm for protection in a fist fight with another grown man just seems odd to me.  I can understand if he was being jumped by multiple people, but one on one? 

This whole thing is just a big mess. I've been trying not to get involved.

Yeah I'm going back to this stance.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on March 27, 2012, 04:41:55 PM
After listening to Zimmerman's 911 call, I've no doubt that he felt threatened, yet it does seem to be a situation that he could have avoided.

I won't get into Zimmerman feeling threatened (as that get's into the race issue), but it's quite clear Zimmerman was following Trayvon, and Trayvon's girlfriend reports him saying this guy was following him. Now, if someone's following you, wouldn't you feel threatened?

Basically, this would set a precedent where you could just follow someone until they attack you, pull out a gun and shoot them, and then claim self defense if a fight breaks out. Or any other such scenario, where you basically force the fight without doing anything direct, then claiming self defense. Be a complete ass hole, have a punch thrown at you, shoot the person, claim self defense.

I mean, I agree that I think there needs to be a more level playing field for self defense claims - sometimes, it seems as if the person has to then prove their innocence, when the point of our judicial system is that you're supposed to be innocent until proven guilty - but if this is how the law plays out (and I've heard worse anecdotes).
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on March 27, 2012, 05:06:19 PM
Ah hell, you don't even need to follow somebody.  All you need to do is find yourself in a place with no witnesses and it becomes your word against that of a dead man.  That's the problem I'm seeing here.  I haven't considered it enough to form an opinion, but I'm not sure the onus shouldn't be on the shooter to prove self defense.  What I do know is that the state of Florida seems to have made it too easy to kill someone; hence the huge increase in justifiable homicide cases there.

As for Travon, I agree he had every right to feel threatened.  I would have too.  What I probably wouldn't have done is confronted the guy following me.  He was talking to his old lady on the phone, why didn't he call the cops?  Seems to me like they probably both fucked up, and the whole thing is compounded by the state legislature making a mess of their homicide laws.   



What's fascinating to me about the whole thing is the likelihood of ever seeing something that resembles justice, and whether or not it'll matter.  It's entirely possible that GZ was justified in shooting him.  It's just as likely that he wasn't morally justified, but within his legal rights.  And it's possible that he just wanted to shoot a black kid.  At this point, given the snowballing sensationalism, will any of it actually matter?  Everybody's claiming that they want justice, but I doubt any of them are going to like what they get.  This is actually starting to remind me of Rodney King, and that's a very, very bad thing.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on March 27, 2012, 05:21:34 PM
Ah hell, you don't even need to follow somebody.  All you need to do is find yourself in a place with no witnesses and it becomes your word against that of a dead man.  That's the problem I'm seeing here.  I haven't considered it enough to form an opinion, but I'm not sure the onus shouldn't be on the shooter to prove self defense.  What I do know is that the state of Florida seems to have made it too easy to kill someone; hence the huge increase in justifiable homicide cases there.

That's bad enough, but so far what's happening is basically saying you can have evidence describing your behavior as provactive, and still claim self defense. I agree that the law is insane if it just says, "kill someone in private." It reminds me of medieval Japan.


Quote
As for Travon, I agree he had every right to feel threatened.  I would have too.  What I probably wouldn't have done is confronted the guy following me.  He was talking to his old lady on the phone, why didn't he call the cops?

I don't know much about it, but form what I hear, black people don't tend to trust the police too much, and I don't blame 'em. He's also just 17, maybe he wanted a good story to tell his friends.

Quote
Seems to me like they probably both fucked up, and the whole thing is compounded by the state legislature making a mess of their homicide laws.   

I can agree with this, but in terms of who fucked up more, and who is more responsible, I'd say that's Zimmerman. He decided to carry a gun, making it a possibility for someone to grab it. Plus, after Trayvon saw it, maybe he felt threatened. Some guys who's following you, and he has a gun? I'd still say Trayvon has the much better claim for self-defense, and I don't see how two people can really be defending themselves from each other, at the same time.

So in terms of justice, Zimmerman deserves some punishment. Manslaughter is made for cases like this. 

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on March 29, 2012, 07:53:51 AM
https://qkme.me/3oizam

I never learned how to embed Quickmeme pictures.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on March 29, 2012, 08:12:53 AM
dere u go

(https://puu.sh/mVRH)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: j on March 30, 2012, 04:24:42 PM
Lolbermann fired by Current TV, replaced by Eliot Spitzer.

https://news.yahoo.com/blogs/upshot/keith-olberman-fired-current-tv-replaced-eliot-spitzer-213532556.html

-J
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on March 30, 2012, 04:40:46 PM
What did he do?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on March 30, 2012, 10:23:02 PM
I'm sure there are some people here who would love this:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WB6p5QPVhPI&feature=related
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on March 30, 2012, 10:26:55 PM
Wow. Supreme Douchebag Drone Bomb and Torture Loverman Deputy National Security Advisor John Brennan has been selected to speak at my alma mater's commencement this spring. I feel so bad for the class of 2012.

Some Jesuit values.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on March 30, 2012, 10:30:26 PM
Hey, I've never even heard of the person who's doing ours.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on March 30, 2012, 10:37:55 PM
This asshole graduated from the school. Oh gosh I am just so bothered by that. SO glad we didn't get someone like that last year. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on April 04, 2012, 09:47:18 AM
It's amazing what's happened to American politics today: https://msmagazine.com/blog/blog/2012/03/31/at-11th-hour-georgia-passes-women-as-livestock-bill/
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Riceball on April 04, 2012, 11:03:38 PM
*dismayed - even though not affected directly by this law in any way*
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Progmetty on April 05, 2012, 04:09:22 AM
This is kinda of a long story with a lot of background on Egyptian political life for the last 5 or 6 month but I just wanted to share an amusing moment in the new Egyptian phase we're going through right now. The front runner of the Egyptian presidential elections has been disqualified after truly gathering enough momentum and support to win the race, this guy was turning into a gold God for the vast majority of Egyptians and a few days ago it was rumored his mom was American, it was confirmed a few hours ago. The law says neither the president nor his parents could have dual citizenship.
His supporters are so in shock that I almost feel sorry for them even after all the long exhausting -sometimes harsh- debates they put me and other undecided voters over the last few month.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on April 05, 2012, 01:35:03 PM
Fucking birthers.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on April 05, 2012, 02:13:34 PM
What now?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on April 05, 2012, 03:11:40 PM
dave mustaine
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on April 05, 2012, 03:28:06 PM
I thought that was a while ago already?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on April 05, 2012, 03:35:35 PM
No clue what Simpson was actually referring to, but this came out a few days ago: https://www.guardian.co.uk/music/2012/mar/30/dave-mustaine-megadeth-barack-obama?newsfeed=true
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on April 05, 2012, 03:40:48 PM
Fucking birthers.

I think this is true of most conspiracy theories, but with the birther movement it seems all that much more relevant: if the powers that be went through all this trouble to forge Obama's records, so as to make him President, what the FUCK do you really think your movement is going to do? Furthermore, why would they let this issue continue to get news?

If what they claim is true, then they basically make impotent any reason why we should care about their claims.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on April 09, 2012, 11:04:46 AM
Hey guys check it out, I think he may be onto something this time: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x-CrNlilZho&feature=related
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Riceball on April 10, 2012, 12:07:40 AM
I know this is from a less-than-ideal source, but it is both :rollin and  :|

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/9194006/One-in-40-UK-diplomats-fluent-in-language-of-country-in-which-they-work.html
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on April 10, 2012, 05:40:21 AM
Hey, American FSOs are pretty terrible about that too. I'm sure the number of American diplomats who can speak the language of their client countries can be counted on one hand.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on April 11, 2012, 12:41:29 PM
So there's one thing I can agree with fiscal conservatives on:

Just filed my taxes today... getting back $600 dollars. My effective tax rate? -46.25%.*

Don't tax me, but don't give me money. The silly thing about it is, all that money's most likley just going to be used for student loans, and going right back into the governments hand.

*Also, that refund is coming back due to tuition at a college.


Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: GuineaPig on April 12, 2012, 08:15:29 PM
Excellent video on the problems of a car-centric society:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bv0Fjk9D968
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on April 17, 2012, 05:34:57 AM
An event I was invited to by this cute girl in my Econ class:

Quote
Be a part of the 99% Spring, called for by over 60 progression organizations, and get training in non-violent direct action along with 100,000 others all around the country. We are training ourselves to prepare for 6 weeks of action to show the 1% we are here to stay and plan to change some things.

That awkward moment when you have to explain that you pretty much are the 1%. :lol

And in other news:

(https://i.imgur.com/T2EDv.png)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on April 17, 2012, 06:53:55 AM
I saw that on Facebook :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on April 18, 2012, 11:35:02 AM
 :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on April 19, 2012, 07:37:14 AM
https://www.upworthy.com/how-many-minimum-wage-work-hours-does-it-take-to-afford-a-2-bdrm-apartment-in-yo?c=cp2
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on April 23, 2012, 12:58:10 PM
I didn't really know where to put this, but salon.com's redesign is one of the worst things I've ever seen.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: TheVoxyn on April 23, 2012, 02:32:43 PM
So, today our government fell.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-17811509
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on April 26, 2012, 06:16:54 PM
Before coming to this board, I never realized how fucked humanity is.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on April 26, 2012, 06:18:09 PM
lol

were you that sheltered?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: snapple on April 26, 2012, 06:23:21 PM
The best part is that you really can't do anything.

Well, you can vote. But, really you can't do anything.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on April 26, 2012, 06:46:12 PM
The best part is that you really can't do anything.

Well, you can vote. But, really you can't do anything.

You can move to where there's less people.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: snapple on April 26, 2012, 06:48:16 PM
Even things like gas prices you can't do shit about. Well, unless you don't use a car. But I live in Michigan. Try biking everywhere all the time.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on April 26, 2012, 06:49:29 PM
lol

were you that sheltered?

Apparently. Or in denial. Since encounters on the internet remove even a shadow of a doubt.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on April 26, 2012, 06:59:45 PM
But I live in Michigan. Try biking everywhere all the time.

Well I would say move to a place where you can, I did. But that's not very practical.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on April 26, 2012, 07:07:07 PM
Or institute a workable train system, like this one guy wants to do:

https://www.fwrail.org/

Note: Nothing on that website is real. The guy made it out to be what the railway system might look like if it did end up becoming a reality. Pretty cool imo.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: GuineaPig on April 26, 2012, 07:43:28 PM
Or institute a workable train system, like this one guy wants to do:

https://www.fwrail.org/

Note: Nothing on that website is real. The guy made it out to be what the railway system might look like if it did end up becoming a reality. Pretty cool imo.

That isn't even all that well-designed a hypothetical system.  No through-running, no clockface scheduling, no electrification, push-pull trainsets instead of multiple units, etc.

This is a good article (https://pedestrianobservations.wordpress.com/2011/08/12/national-low-speed-rail-network-proposal/) on what the basics of such a system should be.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on April 26, 2012, 07:58:53 PM
Well excuuuuuse me, Mr. Particular. :P

Yeah, I dunno enough about trains to judge really, but I'd still love to see the idea come to fruition.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on April 26, 2012, 09:29:13 PM
Or institute a workable train system, like this one guy wants to do:

https://www.fwrail.org/

Note: Nothing on that website is real. The guy made it out to be what the railway system might look like if it did end up becoming a reality. Pretty cool imo.

Ya, but people suck, and unless you're Warren Buffet or Bill Gates, that's not something you can "just do."
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on April 26, 2012, 09:31:50 PM
Oh yeah I know, but it's not like it's "just" this one guy. I seem to remember a friend of mine from non-profit group Summer in the City saying that they would in the future try to arrange with GM to have them lift the prohibition on the installation of a railway system. It might not be much, but it'd be a start.

BTW Scheavo, where did you originally hail from?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: GuineaPig on April 26, 2012, 09:33:50 PM
Or institute a workable train system, like this one guy wants to do:

https://www.fwrail.org/

Note: Nothing on that website is real. The guy made it out to be what the railway system might look like if it did end up becoming a reality. Pretty cool imo.

Ya, but people suck, and unless you're Warren Buffet or Bill Gates, that's not something you can "just do."

Lots of cities throughout the world have these things called public transportation agencies.  Many of them are properly funded and administrated.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on April 26, 2012, 09:58:56 PM
Or institute a workable train system, like this one guy wants to do:

https://www.fwrail.org/

Note: Nothing on that website is real. The guy made it out to be what the railway system might look like if it did end up becoming a reality. Pretty cool imo.

Ya, but people suck, and unless you're Warren Buffet or Bill Gates, that's not something you can "just do."

Lots of cities throughout the world have these things called public transportation agencies.  Many of them are properly funded and administrated.

Well, I should say more, current day people suck. Because, as you know, if you propose we update and upgrade those systems, and fund them a little more, nothing happens, or if it does, it takes way longer than it should because people keep wanting to fight it.

Quote
BTW Scheavo, where did you originally hail from?

Well, where I'm back at now. Missoula, Montana.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: GuineaPig on April 27, 2012, 06:08:28 AM
Or institute a workable train system, like this one guy wants to do:

https://www.fwrail.org/

Note: Nothing on that website is real. The guy made it out to be what the railway system might look like if it did end up becoming a reality. Pretty cool imo.

Ya, but people suck, and unless you're Warren Buffet or Bill Gates, that's not something you can "just do."

Lots of cities throughout the world have these things called public transportation agencies.  Many of them are properly funded and administrated.

Well, I should say more, current day people suck. Because, as you know, if you propose we update and upgrade those systems, and fund them a little more, nothing happens, or if it does, it takes way longer than it should because people keep wanting to fight it.


Hopefully things will change.  American cities were built on cheap and consequence-free oil.  That doesn't exist anymore.  The next big oil crisis will hopefully be accompanied by a huge push for public transportation.

Many cities have built what is being proposed (a regional rail system) more or less from scratch.  Zürich, for example, has probably the best public transport system in the world, and that stemmed from a decision in the '70s to stop building roads and build an S-bahn instead.  Hell, even Denver is building its own (somewhat flawed, but oh well) rail system from scratch right now.  See Fastracks. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FasTracks)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on April 27, 2012, 08:24:03 AM
Quote
BTW Scheavo, where did you originally hail from?

Well, where I'm back at now. Missoula, Montana.
Nice country.  I'd prefer further West or North, but I'd still be way cool living up there.

To make an effective rail system in this country, if we're to assume it's even possible, would require tremendous oversight from the higher levels.  Exactly the sort of thing that Americans don't tolerate well.  We'd insist on letting the private market do it, which it won't, and wind up with competing formats and an every man for himself design philosophy.  There was a reference in the article GP linked to about the German approach: organization before electronics before concrete.  Absolutely fucking brilliant.  It's something the Europeans could put into practice because they're not terrified of central planning and their end goal is a system that benefits everybody.  Neither of those are philosophies that Americans subscribe to.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: GuineaPig on April 27, 2012, 08:45:47 AM
One of the problems with rail in the US is excessive oversight.  The FRA is a massive bureaucracy who is attempting to preserve their own relevance by imposing dated and terrible regulations on the rail industry, that not only keeps it in the dark ages but also makes it less safe.  This is a good rundown of how bad the FRA is. (https://pedestrianobservations.wordpress.com/2011/06/20/bad-fra-regulations-a-compendium/)

Private rail is simply not feasible because there's no way to make it profitable under FRA oversight.  In everywhere else in the world, intercity rail is a profitable enterprise.

As for the "organization before electronics before concrete," American bureaucracies are so self-serving and entrenched (and often corrupt) that they try and do the opposite: concrete solutions first.  Great example: want to bring trains from Long Island into Grand Central?  Let's not share track space with Metro North, because that would mean two separate bureaucracies working together.  Nope, the solution here is to build a $5 billion dollar new station under Grand Central.  Limited space at Penn Station because you have NJ Transit and LIRR terminating there?  Instead of organizing through-running or sharing of space, the solution is to build another huge fucking station when you already have plenty of capacity.  Hell, the main reason that the California HSR alignment is so fucking expensive (though price estimates have come way down from the $100 billion) is that the HSR guys don't want to share tracks, space, platform heights, or even the same signalling as Caltrain.  They'd rather pay out the ass to have it their own way than work together.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on April 27, 2012, 12:33:53 PM
This is the only PR thread I'm posting in these days, so I'll ask....


What ever happened to William Wallace? Remember when he was the extremist? He almost looks like a liberal compared to some of the people here now. Amazing stuff.


Also, while every thread is rather entertaining to read.....don't you guys find arguing with some of these people to just be pointless? If so, why do you keep it up?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on April 27, 2012, 12:48:42 PM
William Wallace is still around.  He seems to spend more time writing professionally than for leisure, though.  And I never thought of him as being particularly extreme.  He's certainly a diehard libertarian, but there are certainly more avid ones.  Braveheart was pretty moderate compared to Job or the newest raving and drooling Libertarian Nick.

As for the current crop of right wingers, there are only one or two that I won't waste my time on.  As long as somebody can craft a reasonable argument, I'm perfectly happy to banter with somebody of whacked out opinions.  Hell, I'm sure they think the same of my ass. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on April 27, 2012, 12:52:15 PM
Opinions also change over time, it's not some quick thing. Looking at the heated debates that go nowhere misses the bigger picture.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: snapple on April 27, 2012, 04:29:59 PM
eh, I don't have the time or desire to argue with people about politics to the extremes people do here. I once had the passion, but now I hardly give a fuck. Great to read, however.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on April 28, 2012, 06:00:42 AM
For you, P/R:

(https://i.imgur.com/qLPPt.png)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on April 28, 2012, 06:56:07 AM
:lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on April 28, 2012, 12:53:52 PM
Quote
BTW Scheavo, where did you originally hail from?

Well, where I'm back at now. Missoula, Montana.
Nice country.  I'd prefer further West or North, but I'd still be way cool living up there.

In terms of geography, you might be right. I'll refrain from quoting A River Runs Through It, but let's just say I'm of the opinion that Missoula is your best bet for people.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on April 30, 2012, 11:21:21 AM
My own contribution to the College Liberal meme: https://qkme.me/3p1mvl

Unfortunately it describes a LOT of people at my college. :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on April 30, 2012, 01:33:38 PM
Here's my slight modification: https://qkme.me/3p1mzn

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on April 30, 2012, 09:55:29 PM
I have to say, as entertaining and intriguing the gay marriage thread originally was, it has become REALLY bad. It's literally Omega repeating himself over and over and over and over and for some reason...some of you guys still try to convince him otherwise.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Omega on April 30, 2012, 09:57:27 PM
I have to say, as entertaining and intriguing the gay marriage thread originally was, it has become REALLY bad. It's literally Omega repeating himself over and over and over and over and for some reason...some of you guys still try to convince him otherwise.

I could say the same thing of the other posters.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on April 30, 2012, 09:59:39 PM
I have to say, as entertaining and intriguing the gay marriage thread originally was, it has become REALLY bad. It's literally Omega repeating himself over and over and over and over and for some reason...some of you guys still try to convince him otherwise.

I could say the same thing of the other posters.

The only reason their arguments have similarities to one another is because you haven't changed yours in the slightest bit. And they have tried different angles at least. But even if you could say the same thing, why continue? This applies to them too. Why do any of you keep it up at this point? Each of you clearly feel as if you're yelling at a brick wall. At what point does pride blind you to futility? (you being all of you, not just you Omega)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on May 01, 2012, 07:52:25 AM
https://www.bloomberg.com/video/91689761/

Because we should never try to emulate the Benzatine Empire.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 01, 2012, 08:27:30 AM
I have to say, as entertaining and intriguing the gay marriage thread originally was, it has become REALLY bad. It's literally Omega repeating himself over and over and over and over and for some reason...some of you guys still try to convince him otherwise.

I could say the same thing of the other posters.

The only reason their arguments have similarities to one another is because you haven't changed yours in the slightest bit. And they have tried different angles at least. But even if you could say the same thing, why continue? This applies to them too. Why do any of you keep it up at this point? Each of you clearly feel as if you're yelling at a brick wall. At what point does pride blind you to futility? (you being all of you, not just you Omega)
I don't think I've even glanced at the gay marriage thread, but my answer to that is simple.  Convincing others of my beliefs is a secondary goal.  Crafting logical defenses of them or challenging others' beliefs is a valid exercise, regardless of whether or not those others might be receptive of them.   That's why Travis never bother me much.  I'm content to argue for my own benefit while others seem to think it's a competitive sport. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on May 01, 2012, 10:39:05 AM
I have to say, as entertaining and intriguing the gay marriage thread originally was, it has become REALLY bad. It's literally Omega repeating himself over and over and over and over and for some reason...some of you guys still try to convince him otherwise.

I could say the same thing of the other posters.

The only reason their arguments have similarities to one another is because you haven't changed yours in the slightest bit. And they have tried different angles at least. But even if you could say the same thing, why continue? This applies to them too. Why do any of you keep it up at this point? Each of you clearly feel as if you're yelling at a brick wall. At what point does pride blind you to futility? (you being all of you, not just you Omega)
I don't think I've even glanced at the gay marriage thread, but my answer to that is simple.  Convincing others of my beliefs is a secondary goal.  Crafting logical defenses of them or challenging others' beliefs is a valid exercise, regardless of whether or not those others might be receptive of them.   That's why Travis never bother me much.  I'm content to argue for my own benefit while others seem to think it's a competitive sport.

Who's Travis?


Also, I totally get that. But at this point (at least in the gay marriage thread) it isn't about coming up with logical defenses anymore, it's just repeating them over and over and over. It would be like writing a song, yea that's amazingly fun. But playing the exact same song over and over and over and never writing a new one? And not even getting payed to play it? Seems annoying. But if you guys dig it, more power to you.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on May 02, 2012, 07:03:40 AM
I never thought I'd say this, but this is a brilliantly written Cracked article. Read it all the way to the end, because I think the message at the tail end is pretty important, and I say this knowing that I do that all the time:

https://www.cracked.com/blog/5-ways-to-spot-b.s.-political-story-in-under-10-seconds/
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on May 02, 2012, 08:16:47 AM
Excellent article. Most of us are guilty of succumbing to that stuff, one way or another.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 02, 2012, 09:58:52 AM
I never thought I'd say this, but this is a brilliantly written Cracked article. Read it all the way to the end, because I think the message at the tail end is pretty important, and I say this knowing that I do that all the time:

https://www.cracked.com/blog/5-ways-to-spot-b.s.-political-story-in-under-10-seconds/

Romney's advisor comparing his campaign to an etch-a-sketch wasn't a "gaffe." This is more or less what Romney's going to try and do, all Romney's advisor did was make this public knowledge. The "gaffe," if there is any, is using the actual word "etch-a-sketch," but the essence of what he was saying was not a gaffe.

The woman who said Romney's wife had never worked a day in her life, worked for CNN, and not Obama by any means. He helping spread this lie, even though he later acknowledges it.

If it was just some random dude, the guys right, and people do that all the time. However, that doesn't really apply to this case, as Romney actually sought Nugent's endorsement (according to Ted). Now it's not as if we should be paying attention to Ted Nugent, and I don't think this is a scandal in any way, but this isn't just some random dude saying something, and trying to tie it to Romney. It's a vocal republican supporter, whose support Romney sought. He doesn't mention that fact.

Overall, I think he's right, I just think he missed on some of his examples. He seems to be using false logic, that becuase 99% of what the media latches on to is a bullshit story, that everything the media latches onto is a bullshit story. The fact that Romney wants to completely remake himself for the general election is not a gaffe, and is actually politically important.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Omega on May 02, 2012, 12:33:51 PM
Moral of the homosexuality thread:

If you can get enough people to irrationally whine about an opposing viewpoint, you can request a thread to be closed.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on May 02, 2012, 12:34:32 PM
If that's the lesson you took away from that thread, then may God have mercy on your soul.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on May 02, 2012, 12:46:02 PM
Moral of the homosexuality thread:

If you can get enough people to irrationally whine about an opposing viewpoint, you can request a thread to be closed.

Is that the objective moral of the thread or the subjective moral of the thread? If it's the subjective moral, then anything can be the moral of the thread, including the moral that there is no moral of the thread.



INCEPTION!
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 02, 2012, 12:53:00 PM
FOX has really been hammering this story about the veteran being refused a refund by Spirit Airlines the last few days, so I finally decided to read what was gong on.  I had assumed that he was returning from combat or something.  I was wrong.

https://www.foxnews.com/us/2012/05/02/vietnam-veteran-overwhelmed-with-support-after-denial-refund-by-spirit-airlines/

Quote
A Facebook campaign calling for a boycott of Spirit Airlines has taken off with jet-like propulsion since the carrier's denial of a refund to a dying former Marine made headlines.

The “Boycott Spirit Airlines” Facebook page has seen its number of "likes" soar in recent days, rising tenfold to nearly 7,000. The social network support has come as Jerry Meekins, a 76-year-old Vietnam veteran with terminal esophageal cancer, raised a fuss when the Fort Lauderdale-based airline nixed his request for a $197 refund. Meekins was going to fly to New Jersey for his daughter's surgery, but his doctor told him not to fly, citing his deteriorating health. The Facebook page blasting the much-complained-about airline already existed, but Meekins' plight has sent furious fellow veterans and concerned citizens flocking to it.

"This is a despicable act on their part," one post read. "They should have quietly returned the airfare and they could have avoided this. I will never fly this airline."

Another wrote: "Here is another former Army soldier supporting you! They picked the wrong group of people to mess with!"

"I hope all the negative publicity is worth $197," read another post.

Meekins, who appeared on Fox News' "Fox & Friends" Wednesday morning, said he appreciates the support. The ex-cop, who drove up from his home in Clearwater, Fla., said he's gotten numerous offers of cash, including a $197 handshake from host Steve Doocy -- which Meekins said he would donate to the Wounded Warrior Project for injured veterans. But it is no longer about the money, said Meekins, who added that he's genuinely touched by the outpouring of support.

“It’s been tremendous, my phone hasn’t stopped ringing,” Meekins, 76, of Clearwater, Fla., told FoxNews.com following the appearance.

    “It’s been tremendous, my phone hasn’t stopped ringing.”

- Jerry Meekins, Vietnam veteran

Peter Forbes, president of the Veterans of the Vietnam War and the Veterans Coalition, told FoxNews.com his 70,000-member, Pennsylvania-based organization sent a letter asking for a reversal by Spirit Airlines on Tuesday

"What would have happened if this patriotic American said ‘no’ when called to serve his country?” the letter obtained by FoxNews.com reads.

The tight-fisted airline is standing by its decision, according to Spirit spokeswoman Misty Pinson. Spirit officials say their refusal to compromise helps them keep costs down for all passengers, and note that passengers can pay extra for insurance that enables them to apply for refunds -- an option Meekins did not take.

Meekins protested near the airline’s ticket counter at Tampa International Airport last month and was joined by other veterans, including one who voiced the potential of a boycott.

"We've got 3 million Legionnaires, and when you take into account all veterans, you're talking 10 million people,” said Bill Hamlin, commander of American Legion Post 5 in Tampa. “Can Spirit Airlines really afford the negative publicity and the possible boycott of at least 10 million veterans?”

Read more: https://www.foxnews.com/us/2012/05/02/vietnam-veteran-overwhelmed-with-support-after-denial-refund-by-spirit-airlines/#ixzz1tjtenlde

I don't understand why he deserves special treatment from private businesses at this point.  If people want to call Spirit heartless for denying his refund on compassionate grounds, then I'd agree with them.  FOX has a real hard-on for veterans, almost to the point of beatifying them, and this is a fine example.  The guy bought the cheapest ticket he could buy, which we all know means non-refundable, and he declined travel insurance which is easy to get and reasonably priced.  It probably would have cost him $30 or so.  He, like I always do, took the risk of losing $190, and now he's tugging on patriotic heartstrings because he got burned on the deal. 

Like I said before, I think it's pretty callous under the circumstances to refuse the guy's refund, and it's certainly a bad PR move.  Not because of the negative publicity, which I think is bullshit, but for the missed opportunity to do something compassionate.  Personally, I commend them for sticking to their guns at this point. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Omega on May 02, 2012, 01:12:12 PM
Moral of the homosexuality thread:

If you can get enough people to irrationally whine about an opposing viewpoint, you can request a thread to be closed.

Is that the objective moral of the thread or the subjective moral of the thread? If it's the subjective moral, then anything can be the moral of the thread, including the moral that there is no moral of the thread.



INCEPTION!


Adami, you gotta read some Jean-Paul Sartre or some Camus or some Nietzsche. Seriously. Like, a vast majority of supposed "moral relativists" here on DTF ought to. As soon as possible.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 02, 2012, 01:27:35 PM
Moral of the homosexuality thread:

If you can get enough people to irrationally whine about an opposing viewpoint, you can request a thread to be closed.

Is that the objective moral of the thread or the subjective moral of the thread? If it's the subjective moral, then anything can be the moral of the thread, including the moral that there is no moral of the thread.



INCEPTION!


Adami, you gotta read some Jean-Paul Sartre or some Camus or some Nietzsche. Seriously. Like, a vast majority of supposed "moral relativists" here on DTF ought to. As soon as possible.


Haven't done Camus, but I have read Heidegger, Sartre and 90%+ of Nietzsche's works.

Except for Camus, they're all perspectivalists. Something you label as "relativist" and meaningless.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on May 02, 2012, 01:36:36 PM
Moral of the homosexuality thread:

If you can get enough people to irrationally whine about an opposing viewpoint, you can request a thread to be closed.

Is that the objective moral of the thread or the subjective moral of the thread? If it's the subjective moral, then anything can be the moral of the thread, including the moral that there is no moral of the thread.



INCEPTION!


Adami, you gotta read some Jean-Paul Sartre or some Camus or some Nietzsche. Seriously. Like, a vast majority of supposed "moral relativists" here on DTF ought to. As soon as possible.

lol I've studied philosophy quite a bit. I admit I don't have the memory to recall tons of names/concepts like you can, but all of my studying led me here. And I am quite happy here.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Omega on May 02, 2012, 02:10:41 PM
Haven't done Camus, but I have read Heidegger, Sartre and 90%+ of Nietzsche's works.

Except for Camus, they're all perspectivalists. Something you label as "relativist" and meaningless.

No, Camus was an absurdist, Sartre an existentialist and Nietzsche a nihilist. Point is, though, that they realized that, in accordance with their atheism, the universe is simply purposeless, senseless, and meaningless. Nature is nothing but matter in motion. And the motions of matter are governed not by any purpose, but by blind, purposeless forces. If the scheme of the universe is purposeless and meaningless, then the life of man is purposeless and meaningless too. Everything is futile and all effort in the end is worthless. A man may, of course, pursue disconnected ends, money, fame, art, science, and may gain pleasure from them, but his life is hollow at the center. Hence the dissatisfied, disillusioned, restless nature of postmodern man. There are no reasons for the universe being or for how the universe is. Everything might as well have been quite different and there would be no reason for that either.

And along with the death of God, as Sartre, Camus, and Nietzsche saw, died all moral principles and indeed all moral values. For if there is a cosmic purpose; if there is in the nature of things a drive towards goodness, then our moral systems will derive their validity from this. But if our moral rules do not proceed from something outside us in the nature of the universe, then they must be our own inventions. Thus these honest atheist philosophers came to see that moral rules are merely an expression of our own likes and dislikes. Yet likes and dislikes are notoriously variable; what pleases one man, people, or culture displeases another. Therefore morals are wholly relative. Even Hobbes was able to see that if there is no purpose in the universe, then there are no values either:

"Good and evil are names that signify our appetites and aversions; which in different tempers, customs, and doctrines of men are different... Every man calleth that which pleaseth him, good; and that which displeaseth him, evil."


The eras of modernism and postmodernism can be aptly summed up as a series of failed attempts to ground morals in a secularist foundation.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 02, 2012, 02:43:35 PM
Um, wow. Because Sartre is a perspectvist, doesn't mean he's not an existentialist. Just because Nietzsche "is" a nihilist, doesn't mean he's not a perspectivist. Perspectivism is a way of lookiing at the world, and it's the way in which Kant solved the modern "crisis" of "subject" and "object" (which we know to be false interpretations of the world). Perspetvisim is relative, but it not merely up to the persons desires and feelings, as you make it out to be. Try as I want, I cannot desire a square to be a circle. Just not gonna happen. You overlook this latter portion of perspectivism all the time. There IS a common world we all share, a "reality," but we don't directly experience that reality, we experience and interpretation of said reality - and while interpretations will all vary, you cannot interpret anything you desire.

You seem to be completely unaware of Nietzsche fundamental theory of "will to power."

Quote from:  481, From "The Will to Power"
In so far as the world "Knoweldge" has nay meaning, the world is knowable; but it is interpretable otherwise, it has no meaning behind it, but countless meanings. - "perspectivism.

"it has no meaning behind it," can be easily interpreted as saying its meaningless. But that's obviously not what he means, because he says it has countless meanings. Instead, what he is saying is that there is no one meaning behind the word "knowledge." It is not that it can mean anything, it's that it has countless meanings, making it not this one meaning, or that one meaning - which is to say, there is no meaning behind it.

I had a professor make a hermeneutical point once, that really helped me understand this. To take a relevant example, "The Will to Power" says two things: one's will to power, which is probably the most natural way to interpret that statement - but also, the will which belongs to power, power itself having a will.






Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Omega on May 02, 2012, 04:21:36 PM
Um, wow. Because Sartre is a perspectvist, doesn't mean he's not an existentialist. Just because Nietzsche "is" a nihilist, doesn't mean he's not a perspectivist. Perspectivism is a way of lookiing at the world, and it's the way in which Kant solved the modern "crisis" of "subject" and "object" (which we know to be false interpretations of the world). Perspetvisim is relative, but it not merely up to the persons desires and feelings, as you make it out to be. Try as I want, I cannot desire a square to be a circle. Just not gonna happen. You overlook this latter portion of perspectivism all the time. There IS a common world we all share, a "reality," but we don't directly experience that reality, we experience and interpretation of said reality - and while interpretations will all vary, you cannot interpret anything you desire.

We are not interested in moral epistemology, Scheavo; we're interested with moral ontology. The question is "do objective moral values and duties exist, and if so, were are they grounded?"


Quote
You seem to be completely unaware of Nietzsche fundamental theory of "will to power."

Quote from:  481, From "The Will to Power"
In so far as the world "Knoweldge" has nay meaning, the world is knowable; but it is interpretable otherwise, it has no meaning behind it, but countless meanings. - "perspectivism.

"it has no meaning behind it," can be easily interpreted as saying its meaningless. But that's obviously not what he means, because he says it has countless meanings. Instead, what he is saying is that there is no one meaning behind the word "knowledge." It is not that it can mean anything, it's that it has countless meanings, making it not this one meaning, or that one meaning - which is to say, there is no meaning behind it.

I had a professor make a hermeneutical point once, that really helped me understand this. To take a relevant example, "The Will to Power" says two things: one's will to power, which is probably the most natural way to interpret that statement - but also, the will which belongs to power, power itself having a will.

All Nietzsche is saying is that, at bottom, there is no objective meaning in the universe or of anything other than what we subjectively ascribe to it. Hence there are countless meanings which each individual can subjectively impose on their own existence or on the universe.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on May 02, 2012, 04:53:39 PM
Seriously guys, not in the chat thread,  please?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Omega on May 02, 2012, 05:28:32 PM
Seriously guys, not in the chat thread,  please?

Are we not "chatting"?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on May 02, 2012, 05:37:07 PM
Chat thread is meant for the rather more lighthearted and/or casual political discussions, not srs business. Save it for specialized threads please.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Omega on May 02, 2012, 05:44:39 PM
Chat thread is meant for the rather more lighthearted and/or casual political discussions, not srs business. Save it for specialized threads please.

To have such a thread locked because (insert name here) doesn't "like" the discussion again?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: yeshaberto on May 02, 2012, 06:04:51 PM
Omega, I will not lock this thread.   I will only ask you to stay out, unless you can pleasantly chat.  This is not a discussion thread.   If u want to discuss a subject start a thread
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on May 02, 2012, 06:06:04 PM
Anyway, so I've had some fantasies recently about moving back to Israel (actually pretty realistic) and trying to start some kind of pro-unity thing against the government (not as realistic). I have the image of covering Tel Aviv or Haifa in posters saying "What happened to our country?"

Superdude, you want in?


Also, covering Jerusalem in ירושלים של זהב לא של דם would be pretty awesome.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on May 02, 2012, 06:13:20 PM
Wow, I like that slogan. For those who can't understand, "Jerusalem of Gold, not of Blood." As for the against the government thing, I'd go the more moderate route of trying to moderate said government. Get more Arab politicians and liberal Israelis involved, foster more inter-state cooperation, etc. Although you could be on the right track by saying that pro-unity is the thing to emphasize.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on May 02, 2012, 06:16:31 PM
Wow, I like that slogan. For those who can't understand, "Jerusalem of Gold, not of Blood." As for the against the government thing, I'd go the more moderate route of trying to moderate said government. Get more Arab politicians and liberal Israelis involved, foster more inter-state cooperation, etc. Although you could be on the right track by saying that pro-unity is the thing to emphasize.

I think it's less anti government, and more a pressure to reflect on what once made the country great, and a look at what we've become. Hopefully the realization that we have become something....not very good, will motivate people to change from the ground up. And yea, I am pretty fond of that slogan, maybe I should copyright it.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: jammindude on May 02, 2012, 06:17:35 PM
Immanuel Kant was a real pissant who was very rarely stable,
Heidegger, Heidegger was a boozy beggar who could think you under the table,
David Hume could out-consume Schopenhauer and Hegel,
And Wittgenstein was a beery swine who was just as schloshed as Schlegel.

There's nothing Nietzsche couldn't teach ya 'bout the turning of the wrist,
Socrates himself was permanently pissed...

John Stuart Mill, of his own free will, with half a pint of shandy was particularly ill,
Plato, they say, could stick it away, half a crate of whiskey every day,
Aristotle, Aristotle was a beggar for the bottle, Hobbes was fond of his dram,
And Rene Descartes was a drunken fart, "I drink therefore I am."

Yes, Socrates himself is particularly missed;
A lovely little thinker but a bugger when he's pissed.

- Monty Python

I was reading this thread, and the inspiration hit me.  ;D
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on May 02, 2012, 06:22:13 PM
Wow, I like that slogan. For those who can't understand, "Jerusalem of Gold, not of Blood." As for the against the government thing, I'd go the more moderate route of trying to moderate said government. Get more Arab politicians and liberal Israelis involved, foster more inter-state cooperation, etc. Although you could be on the right track by saying that pro-unity is the thing to emphasize.

I think it's less anti government, and more a pressure to reflect on what once made the country great, and a look at what we've become. Hopefully the realization that we have become something....not very good, will motivate people to change from the ground up. And yea, I am pretty fond of that slogan, maybe I should copyright it.

I don't s'pose you know a decent bit about Israeli voting stats, do ya? 'Cause from the politics I assume the young rarely vote (since they're in the army and all), but I won't presume to know.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on May 02, 2012, 06:27:13 PM
Wow, I like that slogan. For those who can't understand, "Jerusalem of Gold, not of Blood." As for the against the government thing, I'd go the more moderate route of trying to moderate said government. Get more Arab politicians and liberal Israelis involved, foster more inter-state cooperation, etc. Although you could be on the right track by saying that pro-unity is the thing to emphasize.

I think it's less anti government, and more a pressure to reflect on what once made the country great, and a look at what we've become. Hopefully the realization that we have become something....not very good, will motivate people to change from the ground up. And yea, I am pretty fond of that slogan, maybe I should copyright it.

I don't s'pose you know a decent bit about Israeli voting stats, do ya? 'Cause from the politics I assume the young rarely vote (since they're in the army and all), but I won't presume to know.

No you're right. The young don't often vote, because they have accepted the status quoe. However this idea is aimed to inspire change from the youth and the general population. To motivate them to vote, motivate them to demand change and not just sit around thinking it's futile.

Slightly of topic, I realized yesterday that if for some odd reason Iran and Hamas all declared peaceful intentions with Israel and ceased all hostilities, the entire k'neset would essentially collapse.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 02, 2012, 06:35:11 PM
Interesting.  I always considered the chat thread an excellent place for discussions, even the serious variety, when there might not be enough participation to warrant a specific thread.    It actually seems to me that having people start threads for one on one discussions of a niche subject (  ;)) would be counterproductive when there's a chat thread specifically for such matters.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on May 02, 2012, 06:36:50 PM
Interesting.  I always considered the chat thread an excellent place for discussions, even the serious variety, when there might not be enough participation to warrant a specific thread.    It actually seems to me that having people start threads for one on one discussions of a niche subject (  ;)) would be counterproductive when there's a chat thread specifically for such matters.

I agree. However in this specific case, a 9 page chat thread tangent about the objectivity or morals.....well, do we need that? We've had like 2 threads already, it goes nowhere. And it would completely blow away any other smaller topics that might pop up.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 02, 2012, 06:53:46 PM
I'm not real comfortable deciding which conversations should or shouldn't be necessary.  I agree that this is trivial,  but if there are people who want to discuss this for the umpteenth time, that's their lookout, AFAIC. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on May 02, 2012, 06:54:24 PM
I'm not real comfortable deciding which conversations should or shouldn't be necessary.  I agree that this is trivial,  but if there are people who want to discuss this for the umpteenth time, that's their lookout, AFAIC.

Once again I agree, but in a thread for it. Not in this one.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 02, 2012, 06:58:58 PM
I'm not real comfortable deciding which conversations should or shouldn't be necessary.  I agree that this is trivial,  but if there are people who want to discuss this for the umpteenth time, that's their lookout, AFAIC.

Once again I agree, but in a thread for it. Not in this one.

Well, I made a thread for it, and I have a feeling it'll last maybe three posts. The argument isn't if there's moral subjectivity, it's about what someone said. And as far as that goes, I can pull of quotes. Can't really do that in the previous debate regarding morality.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on May 02, 2012, 07:40:31 PM
Slightly of topic, I realized yesterday that if for some odd reason Iran and Hamas all declared peaceful intentions with Israel and ceased all hostilities, the entire k'neset would essentially collapse.

Yeah, I mean, good luck getting that to happen... :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on May 02, 2012, 07:44:39 PM
Slightly of topic, I realized yesterday that if for some odd reason Iran and Hamas all declared peaceful intentions with Israel and ceased all hostilities, the entire k'neset would essentially collapse.

Yeah, I mean, good luck getting that to happen... :lol

Oh obviously. It's just amazing. Iran and Hamas would like nothing more than the collapse of the Israeli government, and all they have to do is declare peace and it will crumble. It's just funny in some way.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Omega on May 02, 2012, 08:29:21 PM
Interesting.  I always considered the chat thread an excellent place for discussions, even the serious variety, when there might not be enough participation to warrant a specific thread.    It actually seems to me that having people start threads for one on one discussions of a niche subject (  ;)) would be counterproductive when there's a chat thread specifically for such matters.

Haven't you heard, Barto? DTF is now a democracy and accordingly we can now vote and campaign to get certain threads that we don't happen to fancy or understand locked.






This message has been paid for by the Institutionalized Conservative Party of Dream Theater Forums.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: ehra on May 02, 2012, 08:40:34 PM
Omega, your points and posts are painfully easy to understand. You really don't need to keep trying to play that card.


Kinda disappointed that no one really responded to Odysseus' point that I brought up again later in that thread, but oh well.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Omega on May 02, 2012, 09:00:57 PM
Omega, your points and posts are painfully easy to understand. You really don't need to keep trying to play that card.

As has been shown plenty of times, apparently not.

Quote
Kinda disappointed that no one really responded to Odysseus' point that I brought up again later in that thread, but oh well.

Which point?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nick on May 02, 2012, 09:19:26 PM
Interesting.  I always considered the chat thread an excellent place for discussions, even the serious variety, when there might not be enough participation to warrant a specific thread.    It actually seems to me that having people start threads for one on one discussions of a niche subject (  ;)) would be counterproductive when there's a chat thread specifically for such matters.

Haven't you heard, Barto? DTF is now a democracy and accordingly we can now vote and campaign to get certain threads that we don't happen to fancy or understand locked.

This message has been paid for by the Institutionalized Conservative Party of Dream Theater Forums.

Just to avoid any confusion, it was a figure of speech, it's not a democracy. :p

Yesh was simply expressing that despite our tyrannical regime's rule, we do value input from everyone.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: ehra on May 02, 2012, 09:22:33 PM
Omega, your points and posts are painfully easy to understand. You really don't need to keep trying to play that card.

As has been shown plenty of times, apparently not.

Quote
Kinda disappointed that no one really responded to Odysseus' point that I brought up again later in that thread, but oh well.

Which point?

You're not a misunderstood soul that people just don't get. You're some random guy who holds a world view that practically no one agrees with.

https://www.dreamtheaterforums.org/boards/index.php?topic=32006.msg1276891#msg1276891
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on May 02, 2012, 09:28:32 PM
Kinda disappointed that no one really responded to Odysseus' point that I brought up again later in that thread, but oh well.

Christians don't do things like murder homosexuals because those laws were specifically for the Israelites, not Christians under the new covenant.


Jews don't murder homosexuals because we're not insane.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: ehra on May 02, 2012, 09:30:24 PM
Just to be clear, Romans 1 is specifically targeted at Israelites?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on May 02, 2012, 09:34:54 PM
Just to be clear, Romans 1 is specifically targeted at Israelites?

Well no, Leviticus is. Romans one is Paul, and Paul is an insane person. However from a Christian point of view, I believe he isn't commanding death, just expressing that god will judge them badly, which is fine.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 02, 2012, 10:04:24 PM
Kinda disappointed that no one really responded to Odysseus' point that I brought up again later in that thread, but oh well.

Christians don't do things like murder homosexuals because those laws were specifically for the Israelites, not Christians under the new covenant.


Jews don't murder homosexuals because we're not insane.
:rollin
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on May 03, 2012, 07:08:16 AM
So I was on Facebook just now when I got this in my News Feed: https://news.yahoo.com/blogs/ticket/maraniss-excerpts-obama-ex-girlfriend-recalls-sexual-warmth-173445825.html

My question for the author, for the readers, for the world: Who the fuck cares? :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 03, 2012, 10:03:19 AM
This thing with FOX and Spirit Airlines (https://www.dreamtheaterforums.org/boards/index.php?topic=327.msg1278079#msg1278079) is a real trip.  They really seem to be on a mission here.  Since Saturday:

Quote
Facebook users heap baggage on Spirit Airlines after dying vet refused refund

In passenger complaints, Spirit Airlines soars above the competition

Should Spirit Airlines refund dying vet's money?

Give Spirit Airlines an 'F' in Public Relations 101

Spirit Airlines offers no discount for military, unlike most U.S. carriers

Why can airlines be so rigid on its no-refund ticket policies?

Vets mull boycott of Spirit Airlines after dying former Marine denied refund

Spirit Airlines' final answer to dying Vietnam vet seeking ticket refund: No

Airline denies refund for cancer patient
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: eric42434224 on May 03, 2012, 10:33:16 AM
sorry.  duplicate post.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: eric42434224 on May 03, 2012, 10:47:01 AM
Omega, your points and posts are painfully easy to understand. You really don't need to keep trying to play that card.

As has been shown plenty of times, apparently not.


You're not a misunderstood soul that people just don't get. You're some random guy who holds a world view that practically no one agrees with.



Exactly Ehra.  Omega, you can make your point, defend your position, etc....but not everyone will agree with you.  You should already realize by now that with your views, many wont agree with you.  A big issue is that you treat your position or assertion as the only correct version, when in fact, it is merely an opinion.  You will notice that many times posters (myself included) will say that you are entitled to your opinion, but that they just are not in agreement.  The difference is that we realize that our position is what we believe, and yours is what you believe (both with valid support for that belief)....but you place your position as right, correct, and true...period....and that we are just flat out wrong.
The threads dont get locked because we disagree, or because we cant understand.  They get locked because they all inevitably end up at the same roadblock...the point when all meaningful discussion has passed.
And then to say we are not educated or intelligent enough to understand just makes things worse.

Ok then.  Have a good day.
Sincerely;
He-whose-name-you-shall-not-utter
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on May 03, 2012, 11:02:17 AM
Omega, your points and posts are painfully easy to understand. You really don't need to keep trying to play that card.

As has been shown plenty of times, apparently not.


You're not a misunderstood soul that people just don't get. You're some random guy who holds a world view that practically no one agrees with.



Exactly Ehra.  Omega, you can make your point, defend your position, etc....but not everyone will agree with you.  You should already realize by now that with your views, many wont agree with you.  A big issue is that you treat your position or assertion as the only correct version, when in fact, it is merely an opinion.  You will notice that many times posters (myself included) will say that you are entitled to your opinion, but that they just are not in agreement.  The difference is that we realize that our position is what we believe, and yours is what you believe (both with valid support for that belief)....but you place your position as right, correct, and true...period....and that we are just flat out wrong.
The threads dont get locked because we disagree, or because we cant understand.  They get locked because they all inevitably end up at the same roadblock...the point when all meaningful discussion has passed.
And then to say we are not educated or intelligent enough to understand just makes things worse.

Ok then.  Have a good day.
Sincerely;
He-whose-name-you-shall-not-utter

What, eric?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: eric42434224 on May 03, 2012, 11:04:39 AM
Exactly Ehra.  Omega, you can make your point, defend your position, etc....but not everyone will agree with you.  You should already realize by now that with your views, many wont agree with you.  A big issue is that you treat your position or assertion as the only correct version, when in fact, it is merely an opinion.  You will notice that many times posters (myself included) will say that you are entitled to your opinion, but that they just are not in agreement.  The difference is that we realize that our position is what we believe, and yours is what you believe (both with valid support for that belief)....but you place your position as right, correct, and true...period....and that we are just flat out wrong.
The threads dont get locked because we disagree, or because we cant understand.  They get locked because they all inevitably end up at the same roadblock...the point when all meaningful discussion has passed.
And then to say we are not educated or intelligent enough to understand just makes things worse.

Ok then.  Have a good day.
Sincerely;
He-whose-name-you-shall-not-utter

What, eric?


Well, before I respond, Scheavo, thanks for the consideration of starting a thread (though, as precedent has shown, the thread may spiral into madness again as non-philosophically oriented people come into the thread and state something along the following {just as rumborak and He-whose-name-I-shall-not-utter seem to already be on the path to doing  :|}: "What is this I don't even! We must lock this thread! I don't know what the crap Omega is saying!"). Also, the topic isn't really about Nietzsche, I might add. It's -- as you may have guessed -- whether morality is objective and the consequences of whether it is or is not. I only mentioned Nietzsche merely as an example of an atheist who was able to follow out the repercussions of his atheism fully and logically.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on May 03, 2012, 11:22:46 AM
Oh wow, didn't see that. :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: snapple on May 03, 2012, 12:56:40 PM
this is how we could take care of over populated prisons

take the mass murderers or people who are 100% guilty and have killed someone, have no signs of remorse, and start doing prison fights. charge admission PPV etc. Lower prison populations and bring in some $. Rate out of 10.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nick on May 03, 2012, 12:58:55 PM
Or just spend a single bullet on each one tomorrow and you'll instantly see some serious cost reduction. Over the years my view on the death penalty has moved towards two extremes, if you can't be 100% sure, then no death penalty, but those who we are sure about should just be eliminated quickly and efficiently.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: snapple on May 03, 2012, 01:00:00 PM
Or just spend a single bullet on each one tomorrow and you'll instantly see some serious cost reduction. Over the years my view on the death penalty has moved towards two extremes, if you can't be 100% sure, then no death penalty, but those who we are sure about should just be eliminated quickly and efficiently.

But the PPV, man. Charge like 400 a fight. You know someone would pay hella cash to actually watch someone die.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nick on May 03, 2012, 01:00:52 PM
Or just spend a single bullet on each one tomorrow and you'll instantly see some serious cost reduction. Over the years my view on the death penalty has moved towards two extremes, if you can't be 100% sure, then no death penalty, but those who we are sure about should just be eliminated quickly and efficiently.

But the PPV, man. Charge like 400 a fight. You know someone would pay hella cash to actually watch someone die.

I also know we have this thing called the bill of rights. :p
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on May 03, 2012, 01:01:25 PM
Even ignoring the entire Hunger Games thing you have going there, making money off of prisoners is a very bad idea.


Or just spend a single bullet on each one tomorrow and you'll instantly see some serious cost reduction. Over the years my view on the death penalty has moved towards two extremes, if you can't be 100% sure, then no death penalty, but those who we are sure about should just be eliminated quickly and efficiently.

I don't see any way to legislate a system that is 100% correct, not to mention drawing the line for what qualifies for the death penalty.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: snapple on May 03, 2012, 01:02:38 PM
Hey man, I'm the one posting ideas!


(friends decided to feed me a few drinks. kind of mind blowing stuff going on in my brains)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on May 03, 2012, 01:06:41 PM
Would you seriously watch that?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: snapple on May 03, 2012, 01:07:32 PM
Would you seriously watch that?

no, but there are sick fuckers in this world.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 03, 2012, 01:11:48 PM
I actually knocked around the Circus Maximus 2000 idea about 20 years ago.  The trick is to do it in international waters, and buy condemned prisoners from countries that just don't give a shit.  Americans would publicly never go for it because allowing them to fight to the death isn't as Christian as strapping them down and shooting them full of poison.  Privately, every household in America would tune in. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: snapple on May 03, 2012, 01:14:15 PM
I actually knocked around the Circus Maximus 2000 idea about 20 years ago.  The trick is to do it in international waters, and buy condemned prisoners from countries that just don't give a shit.  Americans would publicly never go for it because allowing them to fight to the death isn't as Christian as strapping them down and shooting them full of poison.  Privately, every household in America would tune in.

El Barto/Snapple ticket for 2016?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on May 03, 2012, 01:22:14 PM
I actually knocked around the Circus Maximus 2000 idea about 20 years ago.  The trick is to do it in international waters, and buy condemned prisoners from countries that just don't give a shit.  Americans would publicly never go for it because allowing them to fight to the death isn't as Christian as strapping them down and shooting them full of poison.  Privately, every household in America would tune in. 

That is so fucked up :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on May 04, 2012, 07:37:47 AM
A little late, but I loved this:

"Fuck the White House Correspondents' Dinner" (https://gawker.com/5905698/fuck-the-white-house-correspondents-association-dinner?)
Quote
Tomorrow evening, the cream of our nation's mainstream media celebrities, political celebrities, and celebrity celebrities will put on tuxedos and evening gowns and gather in a ballroom in Washington, DC to mutually give one another handjobs, in a mostly metaphorical sense. This is because the most powerful elements of our nation's DC press corps are all "on the same team" as the people they cover (politicians) and the people they idolize (celebrities). This is called the White House Correspondents' Association Dinner, and it is the single most revolting annual gathering of pseudojournalistic cocksuckery in all the land.

Do you know who knows that the White House Correspondents' Association Dinner is a shameful display of whoredom that makes the "average American" vomit in disgust, or, more likely, simply continue to disregard the findings of any ostensibly neutral journalistic outlet in favor of their own ideology of choice, because they have a fully solidified belief that the "mainstream media" is little more than a bunch of ball-lapping lapdogs to whoever's in power? Everyone. Everyone knows this. Even the members of the media who attend the White House Whores Despondence Dinner know this, deep down, whether they admit it openly or lie defensively about how they, the true professionals, can stand in a receiving line to backslap and shake the hands of politicians like groupies and pose for pictures with Ashton Kutcher and Alec Baldwin and Stephen Baldwin and Anna Paquin and no, it does not matter tomorrow, because they are professionals who would never be compromised by the fact that they just spent their favorite evening of the year joshing playfully with the powerful officials they are supposed to be afflicting and reveling in their close proximity to the celebrities that they wish they were.

This is not just any segment of the working press, enjoying a night out. This is the DC press corps, which has arguably the most important job in American journalism: informing the public about the activities of its government, and serving as a strong and omnipresent check on the government's power. Great to know that our fearless watchdogs are busy swilling wine with the people they are supposed to be covering and introducing them to their wives and posing for pictures with Mila Kunis.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: eric42434224 on May 04, 2012, 09:08:43 AM
I dont see the problem with the event being basically a fun night out with handjobs.  Every industry should have a night like that, regardless of the importance of the job.  Sounds like the author is pissed he wasnt invited.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on May 04, 2012, 09:11:36 AM
The problem is that the Dinner is representative of the vast majority of the press' relationship with the government the other 364 days of the year too. We don't have a watchdog press anymore.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: eric42434224 on May 04, 2012, 09:20:11 AM
The problem is that the Dinner is representative of the vast majority of the press' relationship with the government the other 364 days of the year too. We don't have a watchdog press anymore.

I would say to characterize the professional relationship the other 364 days by one fun dinner event is probably not a fair assessment.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on May 04, 2012, 09:26:36 AM
And we do have watchdog press. It may not be the mainstream, but it does exist. Alternet is a good example, even though I personally don't like them.

https://www.alternet.org/
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on May 04, 2012, 09:45:38 AM
I think we're pretty fucked if Alternet is the best we can do. Obviously, there are good aversarial journalists out there but I'm talking about the vast majority of the establishment press. The Wolf Blitzers and Brian Williamses of the world and their respective employers, if you will.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on May 04, 2012, 11:13:36 AM
I think we're pretty fucked if Alternet is the best we can do. Obviously, there are good aversarial journalists out there but I'm talking about the vast majority of the establishment press. The Wolf Blitzers and Brian Williamses of the world and their respective employers, if you will.

Oh, I never said they were a good watchdog. :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: chknptpie on May 04, 2012, 12:57:20 PM
edit - going to put in election thread.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on May 06, 2012, 09:18:01 AM
TN house passed a bill allowing parents to sue teachers for 'condoning gateway sexual activity':

Quote from: https://newsfeed.time.com/2012/04/30/tennessee-passes-abstinence-based-gateway-sexual-activity-bill/
Hugging? You better not be doing that in Tennessee.

The state has passed a long-mocked bill allowing parents to sue teachers and other outside parties for “promoting or condoning ‘gateway sexual activity’ by students.” The controversial measure is intended to curb teen pregnancy and is an offshoot of the state’s growing abstinence-based sex education program.

At the heart of the matter, most of the controversy stems from the “gateway sexual activity” line, which remains vague and was not clearly defined before the bill went to vote. Some detractors argue that it could unreasonably punish teachers for allowing students to cuddle, hold hands or even hug, whether in the halls between classes or at a school dance.

While critics say that abstinence-based sexual education doesn’t do as good a job preventing teen pregnancy as comprehensive sex ed programs, at least one study has shown that abstinence-based programs can delay sex among teens. And supporters of the bill say that Tennessee schools have to do something; as local media outlet WMC-TV reported:

According to a 2009 Youth Risk Behavior Study, 61 percent of Memphis City high school students and 27 percent of middle school students have had sex. That’s higher than the national average.
The bill, which was sponsored by Republican Rep. Jim Gotto of Nashville, passed with a vote of 68-23. According to the Associated Press, 60 Republicans and eight Democrats voted yes while 22 Democrats and one Republican voted against the bill.

Unsurprisingly, Planned Parenthood has remained unsupportive of the bill. As the group’s Director of Education Elokin CaPese noted, “If the state of Tennessee gets to create the [sex] curriculum, it has to create something that umbrella reflects everyone.”
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: GuineaPig on May 06, 2012, 03:29:22 PM
Christian side-hugs all 'round!
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on May 06, 2012, 03:31:43 PM
JESUS NEVER HUGGED NOBODY LIKE THAT
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on May 08, 2012, 10:01:14 PM
And now for something completely different:

https://opinionator.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/05/08/the-ecotopiast-who-glimpsed-the-future/?hp

Yes, it is all very utopian sounding, but if we can somehow manage to work our way towards it, we can go a long way in fixing this mess. And hey, in some sense the smelly hippies of the 60s did get to make their change, as social developments in the 70s and 80s will show (the Internet and the EPA being the most visible of these, but there were numerous others).
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 09, 2012, 08:48:45 AM
Would be suicide bomber was US informant (https://www.reuters.com/article/2012/05/09/us-usa-security-plot-idUSBRE84807W20120509?feedType=RSS&feedName=topNews&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+reuters%2FtopNews+%28News+%2F+US+%2F+Top+News%29&utm_content=Google+Feedfetcher)

At this point I kind of have to ask, have we prevented any terrorist plots that weren't our own?  Anytime you hear about an attack that didn't go off, either it was all orchestrated by the FBI, sometimes quite dubiously, or it was thwarted by sheer, dumb ass luck, like the Time's Square bomb. 

I'll make clear that I'm not opposed to FBI sting operations, as long as they're against actual terrorists and not incompetent lackeys, but you shouldn't get to toot your own horn afterward.  Hell, by that logic I'm America's greatest hero because I've prevented myself from blowing shit up for 14,965 consecutive days.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: soundgarden on May 10, 2012, 03:50:57 PM
@Bosk,

The reason you locked the thread is the very core of the debate.  Perhaps there was a better way to say it; but it IS an issue of civil rights.  And if you don't think its a civil rights issue, please say why.  You can't dismiss our views because you may feel its insulting to you (even though you are absolutely in the right to feel so).
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 10, 2012, 04:03:04 PM
I'd just like to say that I was fixing to blow GMD's very solid post clean out of the water before the thread got locked.   :biggrin:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: yeshaberto on May 10, 2012, 04:06:34 PM
@Bosk,

The reason you locked the thread is the very core of the debate.  Perhaps there was a better way to say it; but it IS an issue of civil rights.  And if you don't think its a civil rights issue, please say why.  You can't dismiss our views because you may feel its insulting to you (even though you are absolutely in the right to feel so).

This is the reason for pm
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on May 10, 2012, 04:09:23 PM
I dunno, I agree with soundgarden.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on May 10, 2012, 04:29:36 PM
I guess I just don't understand why people get so personally invested and worked up in what strangers on the internet think about things. That thread was getting pretty chippy.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: snapple on May 10, 2012, 04:44:48 PM
I'd just like to say that I was fixing to blow GMD's very solid post clean out of the water before the thread got locked.   :biggrin:


I was about to solve world hunger and cure aids before the thread was locked. :lol

It was probably for the best. I was about to really make emotional responses. Those arent good. I do think most people were handling the conversation well.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Progmetty on May 10, 2012, 04:57:26 PM
Voting for Egyptians abroad starts in a day and I'm still undecided, watching the first debate between two of the thirteen candidates. Folks in Egypt start voting a week after us so they have more time to watch the upcoming debates although I don't think it will add anything to what I already know.
Although I'm fucked cause I'm undecided, I'm still very glad to take part in the first presidential elections in my life time of 30 years.
Just thought to share that, I've been in a shit storm of debates and discussions for the last 6 month with other Egyptians, so much has happened and there was something new everyday in Egypt. Going along side the elections and reading/watching a lot of the nominees ideas and programs. I'm tired but aware of how important this is, that's why I'm whining about it to you guys and not to other Egyptians heh
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Rick on May 10, 2012, 06:38:29 PM
@Bosk,

The reason you locked the thread is the very core of the debate.  Perhaps there was a better way to say it; but it IS an issue of civil rights.  And if you don't think its a civil rights issue, please say why.  You can't dismiss our views because you may feel its insulting to you (even though you are absolutely in the right to feel so).

Agreed. That thread was interesting, and for the most part entirely civil. I've moderated a fair amount of internet communities in the past decade, and that thread flagged nothing to me in terms of needing shut-down. To shut down the discussion merely because you disagree with those who label anti-gay-marriage people as being anti-civil-rights is quite harrowing to me as it seems to insinuate that you are denying the possibility that it ought to be in homosexuals civil rights to marry, and as someone in a homosexual relationship I find it uncomfortable that you would do that. If the situation were reversed and I, as a bisexual, were to shut down a discussion wherein people were stating that I shouldn't have the civil right to marry my boyfriend, would that be equally justifiable? I think not. If you disagree with something said in a debate, then engage in that debate by all means and express your objections, but I implore you not to just shut down discussion and deny others a voice.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: yeshaberto on May 10, 2012, 06:47:23 PM
As I stated earlier, these should be pm'd to a mod per first paragraph of rule page. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: bosk1 on May 10, 2012, 06:55:41 PM
Rick, first off, I want to thank YOU for being one who, despite disagreeing VERY strongly with the anti- position and voicing your opinion forcefully, you always kept it civil.  Second, I'm sorry you get the impression that I shut the thread simply because I disagree with a position being taken.  I have not and will not do that and, again, I apologize if that was the impression I inadvertently gave.  But, Rick, if you were around on a regular basis and kept track of my record in how I moderate, I have issued FAR more warnings and bans to people on the right for getting out of hand than people on the left, and I try hard to be extra tolerant when it comes to warning people on the left side of these debates because I want to make sure I am being as unbiased as possible in the way I mod.  Whether you personally believe that or not, I am quite comfortable with the fact that I do not ban, warn, or otherwise mod threads based on whether I agree with a person's viewpoint or ideology.

As far as the issue at hand, let me rephrase:  In my opinion, it is NOT a civil right issue.  HOWEVER, I recognize that a good many people who posted in the thread DO view it that way.  I may personally disagree with that position as an individual, but in my capacity as the person who runs the forum, that's perfectly fine.  I did not shut the thread down for that reason.  There is a difference between, (1) on one hand, holding the opinion that it should be considered a civil rights issue and arguing the point that denying gay marriage is to deny people their civil rights, versus (2) on the other hand, stating as fact that it is a civil rights issue and, by default, anyone who disagrees is bigoted and willing to trample willy-nilly over the rights of others.  Do you see the difference?  Admittedly, it is a subtle one.  And in and of itself, not something I would have locked the thread over.  But it was one of MANY instances in that thread of people personally attacking others and tossing around labels at any who disagree.  Whether that flies on some other forums you frequent or not, that isn't the kind of environment I want here, and there are times when I get sick of it--no matter which side of the political or religious spectrum it is coming from. 

If people want the thread reopened and can discuss the issue civilly, that's fine.  I will reopen it.  I wish all who post in it would follow the example of people like you, El Barto, and yeshua, for example, in terms of how to post an opinion in a civil way.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Rick on May 10, 2012, 07:19:18 PM
As I stated earlier, these should be pm'd to a mod per first paragraph of rule page.

No it doesn't:

Quote
Punishment/Enforcement:
Posts and threads with content that breaks the rules are subject to closing or deletion. If a moderator does not provide a reason for deletion and you wish to know, PM him/her/it/they.

Users who violate the rules will be warned at most three times before action is taken against them. The actions taken are largely at the moderators' discretion and will be scaled with the severity of the infraction. If you have a question about a rule or the punishment you received for breaking a rule, PM or e-mail a moderator. Please don't start threads about individual cases of moderation.

That first paragraph says to PM the mod if they DON'T give a reason why they have closed or deleted things. Bosk did give a reason, ergo that rule doesn't apply to this situation.

The second paragraph says don't start new threads about cases - this is in the chat thread and not a new thread. It also says if you have a question about a rule 'you' broke then PM the mod - I didn't break any rules in that discussion, and therefore it makes sense to have a transparent open discussion about this instance because it was shut due to the actions of numerous posters, and not just one. I'm a great believer in transparency in general; things that instill an unhealthy rigid kyriarchy genuinely disturb me, and things done behind closed doors disturb me even more.

Rick, first off, I want to thank YOU for being one who, despite disagreeing VERY strongly with the anti- position and voicing your opinion forcefully, you always kept it civil. 

No problem. Ad hominems are not the way I ever do things.

As far as the issue at hand, let me rephrase:  In my opinion, it is NOT a civil right issue.  HOWEVER, I recognize that a good many people who posted in the thread DO view it that way.  I may personally disagree with that position as an individual, but in my capacity as the person who runs the forum, that's perfectly fine.  I did not shut the thread down for that reason.  There is a difference between, (1) on one hand, holding the opinion that it should be considered a civil rights issue and arguing the point that denying gay marriage is to deny people their civil rights, versus (2) on the other hand, stating as fact that it is a civil rights issue and, by default, anyone who disagrees is bigoted and willing to trample willy-nilly over the rights of others.  Do you see the difference?  Admittedly, it is a subtle one. 

On a totally personal level, I actually do think that "it is a civil rights issue and, by default, anyone who disagrees is bigoted and willing to trample willy-nilly over the rights of others" - and I mean that with 100% sincerity, but in the least aggressive way. Marriage is a social union or legal contract, and I don't understand why harm is doled out to homosexual couples who desire this union in the same way as heteresexual couples; gay marriages cause no harm to anyone else whatsoever, and civil unions in most countries do not confer the same rights as marriages and therefore are very unequal; therefore loving couples are treated as 2nd class citizens whereas any ol' drunken straight idiots can go get married in Vegas 2 days after they met and divorce a week later. I genuinely find it offensive when I see people denying that this is a civil rights issue as it is something that legitimately causes suffering to many many people worldwide, and reinforces a clear inequality. In terms of the differences between (1) and (2), then elementary understanding of Wittgenstein and Derrida's linguistic analysis ought to allow one to understand that in the vast majority of cases, (2) is implied by (1), however politely it is articulated  ;)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on May 11, 2012, 05:04:03 AM
(https://i.imgur.com/yCYT5.jpg)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: soundgarden on May 11, 2012, 06:21:44 AM
I may disagree with you on many things Bosk; but you at least you are fair and open :tup
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on May 11, 2012, 08:14:19 AM
Good article about how the media has lost all pretense of factchecking: https://www.politifact.com/truth-o-meter/article/2012/may/03/boomerang-kids-85-percent-media/
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Omega on May 11, 2012, 09:58:38 AM
I'm posting the text from a pdf file that is provided by the website that propelled the amendment. It is helpful in establishing clarity in what the amendment was designed to do and in dispelling disingenuous information about the amendment as well:



Myths & Facts:
The North Carolina Marriage Protection Amendment

Myth: The amendment isn’t necessary.

Fact: Unless North Carolina passes the Marriage Protection Amendment, our present marriage laws are vulnerable to politicians and activist judges overturning them and imposing same-sex marriage here. This is what occurred in New York, New Hampshire, California, Massachusetts, Iowa, District of Columbia, Vermont and Connecticut. Already, lawsuits have been filed in North Carolina to invalidate our marriage laws! We need the Amendment to ensure that lawsuits like this are not successful.

Myth: The amendment is just more big government telling people how to live their private lives.

Fact: The amendment will prevent government from re-defining marriage for us without our input or our vote. Marriage has a definition that predates government, and the amendment will insure that government, either through an activist judge or legislative action, cannot redefine marriage. Once the amendment passes, only another vote of the people of North Carolina can change the definition of marriage.

Myth: Marriage is simply about loving couples making a public commitment of their love.

Fact: Marriage certainly provides an opportunity for a couple in love to declare their commitment to each other, but the government doesn’t regulate marriage to provide a forum for public commitment simply because two people love each other. Marriage is unique because it is the social institution we recognize to channel the biological drive of men and women with its inherent capacity to produce children into the ideal family units. Marriage provides the best opportunity of ensuring that any children produced by that sexual union are known by and cared for by their biological parents, and that benefits us all. It is because of children that government regulates and licenses marriage.

Myth: The amendment prohibits same sex couples from entering into private contractual agreements.

Fact: No. The Marriage Protection Amendment is very clear: “This section does not prohibit a private party from entering into contracts with another private party; nor does this section prohibit courts from adjudicating the rights of private parties pursuant to such contracts." Thus, the Amendment allows same-sex couples and others to enter into, and enforce, private legal agreements. For instance, a private company could agree to provide health benefits to any couple it chooses, and the couple could enforce this agreement in court.

Myth: The measure strips important public benefits for same-sex partners of city and county employees.

Fact: Government benefits that are currently received by unmarried couples can continue to exist, even with the passage of the Amendment. Universities and other local governments, under the Amendment, can grant benefits to an individual government employee that he or she could share with another person of his or her choice.

Myth: The measure contains vague language that could have profound unforeseen consequences.

Fact: The amendment is two sentences and easy to read and understand. It means, simply, that marriage will continue to be only between one man and one woman and that private parties can enter into enforceable contracts with other private parties.

Myth: The amendment could invalidate domestic violence laws as they are currently applied to unmarried couples.

Fact: This myth is an example of the length to which opponents of the amendment are going to attempt to trick voters into opposing the amendment. No state with a similar amendment has ever ruled that it has any impact on domestic violence laws. In Ohio, their Supreme Court made clear that their marriage protection amendment would not impact the application of the state domestic violence laws. The same is true in North Carolina.

Myth: The amendment could interfere with existing child custody and visitation rights that seek to protect the best interests of children.

Fact: The amendment has nothing to do with child custody laws or arrangements.

Myth: The amendment could result in courts invalidating trusts, wills, and end-of-life directives– which are not “private contracts” – in which an unmarried partner is a beneficiary and/or is entrusted with the care of a loved one.

Fact: The amendment has nothing to do with trusts, wills and end-of-life directives. The amendment puts our existing definition of marriage into the constitution where it will be safe from future legislative or judicial tampering. It will not interfere with private agreements governing the end-of-life decisions made by same-sex partners.

Myth: The amendment should be called the “anti gay amendment.”

Fact: The amendment is pro-marriage, it is not anti-anyone and doesn’t even use the words “gay” or “homosexual.” Our current marriage laws limit marriage to only one man and one woman. The amendment does not change that.

Myth: The amendment signals to gay people that they are second-class citizens.

Fact: Thousands of gays and lesbians have chosen to make North Carolina their home, where marriage has always been defined as the union of one man and one woman. All citizens of our state – gay and straight – are respected and welcomed, but that doesn’t mean that marriage should be redefined.

Myth: The amendment is bad for business.

Fact: Marriage is not only good for families and children, but also good for business. Research shows that states with a marriage protection amendment in their state constitution are the nation’s top performing economic states. This includes eight of the top ten “best states for business” (according to a survey of 556 CEOs) and eight of the top ten states for job growth (according to Moody’s Analytics, Nov. 23, 2011).

Myth: Polls show that the amendment is trailing badly and will fail.

Fact: Every legitimate poll of likely or actual North Carolina voters has shown the marriage amendment has extensive support in the Tar Heel state. This includes polls by PPP, the Civitas Institute, and Public Opinion Strategies. The only survey claiming that the amendment is trailing is an outdated Elon University Survey, but this poll admits that it “does not restrict respondents by voter eligibility or likelihood of voting.” Every state in the nation to consider a marriage amendment has approved it, including states like California, Wisconsin, and Maine.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: bosk1 on May 11, 2012, 10:00:59 AM
I may disagree with you on many things Bosk; but you at least you are fair and open :tup

I may not always be successful, but I hope it is clear that I do at least try very hard.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nick on May 11, 2012, 10:03:51 AM
Wrong thread?

Edit: @Omega
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Omega on May 11, 2012, 10:13:22 AM
Wrong thread?

Edit: @Omega

I'm getting contradictory orders from the moderators / administrators now; bosk asked me "to leave" the "right" thread merely for discussing my stance on same-sex marriage (and dismissed my comment with a simple "it's, like, your opinion but you're entitled to it"). So it appears that I can no longer post on that thread because if I do, bosk (or yeshaberto; take your pick) will likely issue me another "warning" merely for discussing the matter at hand, or for "stating my views to harshly," or for "being off topic" or for "derailing the thread by responding to responses to my post" (again, take your pick).

Either way, what I posted isn't "my view"; it's a statement made by the amendment's website. Which I thought would be handy to post since it's what is being discussed.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on May 11, 2012, 10:16:03 AM
I'm posting the text from a pdf file that is provided by the website that propelled the amendment. It is helpful in establishing clarity in what the amendment was designed to do and in dispelling disingenuous information about the amendment as well:



Myths & Facts:
The North Carolina Marriage Protection Amendment


As nice as all of that is, it is just a bunch of arguments they themselves designed. I'd love for the "myths" to be actual objections that people are using, along with real answers and not just political one liners to deflect the root objection.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Nick on May 11, 2012, 10:22:43 AM
Wrong thread?

Edit: @Omega

I'm getting contradictory orders from the moderators / administrators now; bosk asked me "to leave" the "right" thread merely for discussing my stance on same-sex marriage (and dismissed my comment with a simple "it's, like, your opinion but you're entitled to it"). So it appears that I can no longer post on that thread because if I do, bosk (or yeshaberto; take your pick) will likely issue me another "warning" merely for discussing the matter at hand, or for "stating my views to harshly," or for "being off topic" or for "derailing the thread by responding to responses to my post" (again, take your pick).

Either way, what I posted isn't "my view"; it's a statement made by the amendment's website. Which I thought would be handy to post since it's what is being discussed.

You can check with Bosk for clarification, but generally if you are asked to leave a discussion, that doesn't mean you can just continue it elsewhere.

And for the latter "quoted" parts, I'd suggest instead of being confused by them you learn what they mean and try and fix things appropriately, and thus issues like this won't happen in the future.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: bosk1 on May 11, 2012, 10:31:05 AM
Wrong thread?

Edit: @Omega

I'm getting contradictory orders from the moderators / administrators now; bosk asked me "to leave" the "right" thread merely for discussing my stance on same-sex marriage (and dismissed my comment with a simple "it's, like, your opinion but you're entitled to it"). So it appears that I can no longer post on that thread because if I do, bosk (or yeshaberto; take your pick) will likely issue me another "warning" merely for discussing the matter at hand, or for "stating my views to harshly," or for "being off topic" or for "derailing the thread by responding to responses to my post" (again, take your pick).

Either way, what I posted isn't "my view"; it's a statement made by the amendment's website. Which I thought would be handy to post since it's what is being discussed.

You can check with Bosk for clarification, but generally if you are asked to leave a discussion, that doesn't mean you can just continue it elsewhere.

And for the latter "quoted" parts, I'd suggest instead of being confused by them you learn what they mean and try and fix things appropriately, and thus issues like this won't happen in the future.

^All of that.  If you want to post something like that and can have civil discussion about it without doing the things you have been warned for, that's fine.  Go ahead.  But as I said, continue on your prior path, and you will be banned for it no matter what thread you posted it in.  Doing the same kinds of things AND doing it in an off-topic thread doesn't somehow make the problem go away.  It makes it worse.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Omega on May 11, 2012, 10:33:00 AM
You can check with Bosk for clarification, but generally if you are asked to leave a discussion, that doesn't mean you can just continue it elsewhere.

I didn't post that from the website to continue any conversation on this thread; I posted it for mere reference and for others to be clear on what the amendment was designed to accomplish, what it affects and what it doesn't, etc.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on May 11, 2012, 02:27:26 PM
Well that's basically the same thing, isn't it? Also the point of the chat thread, AFAIK, is for much smaller P/R topics that don't require their own thread and for non-serious stuff like political cartoons and the like.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sir GuitarCozmo on May 16, 2012, 08:12:16 AM
Because I know someone in P/R will find a use for it:

(https://i.imgur.com/ms2bg.jpg)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on May 17, 2012, 07:58:27 AM
This anti-Obama Ricketts plan really astounds me. I really hope the Obama Campaign will have a good counter to it.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: GuineaPig on May 17, 2012, 08:09:39 AM
This is a really, really good Cracked article that everyone should read. (https://www.cracked.com/article_19864_6-ridiculous-lies-you-believe-about-founding-america.html)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on May 17, 2012, 08:13:13 AM
I saw that, fascinating stuff. I'm always reluctant though because I'm not sure how great their choices for citations usually are (and I can't be arsed to check). I know for a fact the stuff about Cahokia and the Vikings is true though.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 17, 2012, 09:14:26 AM
Cops being cops (https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=Lvy976QKuS4#t=55s)

The first of these guys was acquitted yesterday.  Not a big deal realistically, since he only faced a year in jail, but on principle it's pretty insulting. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sir GuitarCozmo on May 17, 2012, 09:33:54 AM
Cops being cops, like you said.  People can spout the "Oh, you don't know what they face on a day to day basis, they're putting their lives on the line".  Maybe some other day they are.  There was a mob of cops pummeling the shit out of someone who'd already laid down and given up.  WTF??  Cop apologists drive me fucking crazy.  It's always amusing to see stories like this on Fark, because the discussion has a clear side of aplogists and people who think cops are America's best armed street gang.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 17, 2012, 09:47:17 AM
Interestingly, even some of the guys over at the cop forum think this was out of line, and they'll normally always side with their own.  However, they're mostly just pissed off that this kid will get a huge settlement, despite the fact that he was convicted of the burglary he was being apprehended for. 

And speaking of America's biggest street gang, it would seem that another Rampart scandal might be brewing in LA.
https://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-sheriff-clique-20120510,0,728956.story
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sir GuitarCozmo on May 17, 2012, 09:54:13 AM
Doesn't really surprise me much.  I sometimes feel the need to tell Mrs. C's kid that "If you are EVER somewhere and police show up, calmly, quickly, and as inconspicuously as possible, GTFO, even if you didn't do anything wrong."  Some would say "If you did nothing wrong, then why leave?"  Because of things like the links you posted.  There is an overwhelming majority of cops, in my opinion, who were probably slighted in high school and now have a God complex, because they have a badge and a gun.  That does not bode well for those they've vowed to "protect and serve".
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 17, 2012, 10:01:23 AM
While there's certainly some little-man complex going on, I never really thought that was the root of the problem.  The bad attitude is the result of being a cop, not the precursor.  There's a necessary us against them mentality that cops have, and it's actually somewhat understandable, but the inevitable result is that they tend to turn into thugs as a result of it.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: GuineaPig on May 17, 2012, 10:39:09 AM
It's just human nature.  Give anyone power, and they'll abuse it.  This goes for school presidents to generals.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on May 17, 2012, 12:15:04 PM
To all those who yearn for "the good ole days" before our country went insane:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bath_School_disaster
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 17, 2012, 12:52:18 PM
To all those who yearn for "the good ole days" before our country went insane:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bath_School_disaster
Not sure what point you're trying to make, but I actually do prefer an era where 50 kids get blown up and people shrug, say that's a shame, and then get on with their lives.  It seems to me like people back then didn't have a sense that they're entitled to live to old age.  Since people dying young nowadays is totally unacceptable in any way, every incident like this requires all the rest of us to change the way we live.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 17, 2012, 02:15:50 PM
Cops being cops (https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=Lvy976QKuS4#t=55s)

The first of these guys was acquitted yesterday.  Not a big deal realistically, since he only faced a year in jail, but on principle it's pretty insulting.

Insulting? That's fucking worse than Rodney King. Each and every one of those cops should be fired, and more than one of them should be in jail for aggravated assault. Fucking bullshit that we even come close to accepting anything like this.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 17, 2012, 03:07:50 PM
Four of them were already fired, and the mayor's pretty pissed off about the acquittal. 

The important thing that everybody needs to keep in mind is that this happens a lot, and has been happening for decades.  The only reason this is getting resolved somewhat reasonably is because a community activist got the video from a mini-warehouse and made it public. 

And as somebody who's speech-101 final presentation was a defense of the cops who beat Rodney King's stupid ass, yeah, I agree this is obviously worse.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 17, 2012, 04:10:40 PM
Four of them were already fired, and the mayor's pretty pissed off about the acquittal. 

Good, but not good enough.

Quote
The important thing that everybody needs to keep in mind is that this happens a lot, and has been happening for decades.  The only reason this is getting resolved somewhat reasonably is because a community activist got the video from a mini-warehouse and made it public. 

I really don't see how it happening a lot makes it more acceptable or more palatable. It also means that when we do have video proof of brutality like this, that we should fucking give those cops the maximum penalty applicable under the law. Creating a culture of permissiveness, which I'd say we have by letting so many cops off the hook, is going to make the situation worse.

Quote
And as somebody who's speech-101 final presentation was a defense of the cops who beat Rodney King's stupid ass, yeah, I agree this is obviously worse.

You defended the cops who beat up Rodney King? O_o
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 17, 2012, 04:45:12 PM
Four of them were already fired, and the mayor's pretty pissed off about the acquittal. 

Good, but not good enough.

Quote
The important thing that everybody needs to keep in mind is that this happens a lot, and has been happening for decades.  The only reason this is getting resolved somewhat reasonably is because a community activist got the video from a mini-warehouse and made it public. 

I really don't see how it happening a lot makes it more acceptable or more palatable. It also means that when we do have video proof of brutality like this, that we should fucking give those cops the maximum penalty applicable under the law. Creating a culture of permissiveness, which I'd say we have by letting so many cops off the hook, is going to make the situation worse.
I certainly wasn't trying to suggest that frequency makes it more palatable.  My point was largely the same as yours.  People have been complaining for decades about how fucked up the cops are, and plenty of people just don't buy it.  We're now seeing more and more examples of it, which make it kind of hard to ignore the allegations from the past.  Personally, I'm hoping we create an environment where this behavior isn't acceptable, and with each instance of it being made a media circus, we should be getting a wee bit closer.

You defended the cops who beat up Rodney King? O_o
Strangely, there are plenty of instances where I defend aggressive police behavior, and this was one of them.  Quite frankly, a lot of the Monday Morning Quarterbacks just don't know what the fuck they're talking about.  King was violent and combative until the end.  The point of my presentation was that they probably would have been justified in shooting his dumb ass.  Rather than doing that they worked their way up the use of force continuum, and I think acted quite reasonably.  Remember that not everybody falls to the ground in a lump when they get tazered; hell, one of our favorite guitarists here can attest to that little fact  :lol.  King got tazered and reacted violently, which is one of the risks of using the thing.  Another interesting thing that the MMQB's overlook is that the beating was halted fairly quickly, and King continued to resist resulting in them continuing beating. 

BTW, I got an A on the presentation and made it safely to my car afterward.   :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on May 17, 2012, 05:07:47 PM
To all those who yearn for "the good ole days" before our country went insane:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bath_School_disaster
Not sure what point you're trying to make, but I actually do prefer an era where 50 kids get blown up and people shrug, say that's a shame, and then get on with their lives.  It seems to me like people back then didn't have a sense that they're entitled to live to old age.  Since people dying young nowadays is totally unacceptable in any way, every incident like this requires all the rest of us to change the way we live.

Oh, yeah, that wasn't the point I was trying to make at all. I was just thinking about the way people react to violent tragedies today, how people say, "How could anyone do such a thing? People never did things like this [insert number of years ago]!" It's complete bullcrap, people were just as crazy in the days of yore as today.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 18, 2012, 11:47:52 AM
https://tpmmuckraker.talkingpointsmemo.com/2012/05/arizona_ken_bennett_obama_birth_certificate_birther.php

If I'm ever appointed president, the first thing I'm going to do is initiate proceedings to give Arizona back to the Mexicans.  The rest of us really shouldn't have to be associated with these nimrods.

What I'd really like to see is Obama issue a one word statement:  So?  There is no possibility of him getting their electoral votes, so what difference does it make?  It would be cool to see their madman looking secretary of state be known as the guy who disenfranchised his entire electorate, though. n
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on May 18, 2012, 12:11:52 PM
Oh God, that face.  :rollin
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Progmetty on May 19, 2012, 05:30:47 AM
Quick question: Does any official source announce the results of American presidential elections for Americans abroad if the local elections were not done yet? If not; does it leak?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 19, 2012, 10:24:18 AM
Quick question: Does any official source announce the results of American presidential elections for Americans abroad if the local elections were not done yet? If not; does it leak?
If I understand what you're asking, no they don't.  I think what you're referring to are absentee ballots.  The results don't get leaked because they don't get counted until the day of the election.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Progmetty on May 19, 2012, 05:17:01 PM
I see, thanks man. That sounds like sane way to do it.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: chknptpie on May 21, 2012, 01:29:29 PM
 :facepalm: I hate my state
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: igotrhythm on May 25, 2012, 07:27:28 AM
In the Hindu religion, the Supreme Being Shiva came to earth in the form of a cow. For this reason it is considered a cardinal sin to eat beef or cause the death of a cow in Hinduism--one of the worst sins a person can commit. Traffic regularly comes to a dead stop in Indian cities when a cow crosses the road. You would think it would be a given that it would be illegal to eat beef in India, 80% of the population of which is Hindu--more than the Christian population of the United States. You would be wrong. India is a free society, and therefore they don't legislate based on religion--therefore if you're a Christian or Muslim in India, you can eat all the beef you want. If only the United States were as free a country as India...
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: eric42434224 on May 25, 2012, 09:44:53 AM
India is not immune from religions discrimination issues.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: The Dark Master on May 25, 2012, 03:13:45 PM
https://tpmmuckraker.talkingpointsmemo.com/2012/05/arizona_ken_bennett_obama_birth_certificate_birther.php

If I'm ever appointed president, the first thing I'm going to do is initiate proceedings to give Arizona back to the Mexicans.  The rest of us really shouldn't have to be associated with these nimrods.

What I'd really like to see is Obama issue a one word statement:  So?  There is no possibility of him getting their electoral votes, so what difference does it make?  It would be cool to see their madman looking secretary of state be known as the guy who disenfranchised his entire electorate, though. n

Is this even going to matter at all?  I thought AZ was already pretty much a guaranteed win for Mittens just because of all the birther crazies in the first place.  If this goes through, all it is really doing is confirming the status quo in Arizona, which really is nothing surprising anyways.




Oh yes, and LOL @ dat face   :rollin
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 26, 2012, 10:47:12 AM
https://www.buzzfeed.com/gavon/a-users-guide-to-smoking-pot-with-barack-obama

The first thing I've seen about the guy that suggests I might actually have gotten along with him at some point.  Shame he turned into such a hypocritical shitbag.

And I'd just like to say that the roof hit picture is incredible.  Try as we might, we were never able to get anything close to that. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 26, 2012, 02:44:13 PM
I gotta say, his position on pot is certainly one I horribly disagree, but I'm not willing to dislike someone for being pragmatic. Putting health care and economic reform before legalizing weed seems fairly reasonable to me, especially considering the current congress.

It comes down to personality for me as much as his positions. Hes not a legislator, even though that's how the media makes Presidents run for the office.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 26, 2012, 03:15:20 PM
I gotta say, his position on pot is certainly one I horribly disagree, but I'm not willing to dislike someone for being pragmatic. Putting health care and economic reform before legalizing weed seems fairly reasonable to me, especially considering the current congress.

It comes down to personality for me as much as his positions. Hes not a legislator, even though that's how the media makes Presidents run for the office.
Unquestionably true.  Also not really the point in this matter.  I don't care if he attempts to decriminalize it or not.  I care a great deal that he's the most actively anti-pot president we've had since Nixon. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 26, 2012, 03:23:28 PM
The pot market has also gone crazy. He said he'd let states decide, but we both know the huge medical industries also transport across state lines, and into states where its illegal. More pot being grown and transported makes for more arrests, and more raids - especially when its a business with an address.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 26, 2012, 03:56:42 PM
A: he isn't letting the states decide.  It's not like the paradigm became different in 2008, either. 

B: while popularity has probably increased, and quality certainly has, I don't think the market has changed much at all.  I doubt I have to tell you how easy it is to manufacture KB.  It's not like acid where it has to be made in a few locations and distributed across the country.  Everybody can grow fine quality bud, and there's really not much of a benefit to interstate commerce.  Lets also keep in mind that in places where it's legal, like Cali or Colorado, there's no benefit to taking their expensive, retail weed and shipping it elsewhere. 

Where there is distribution out of the states is going to be cheap Mexican bud, and that hasn't changed in 50 years, except that there's probably few people interested in it. 

This doesn't really matter, though, as it's strictly California and Colorado that he's cracking down on, and has made it fairly clear.  They're hitting specific targets to put a chilling effect on the whole affair.  These targets tend to be lawful dispensaries, operated by notable activists. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 26, 2012, 06:11:40 PM
Its not just California and Colorado, he hit Montana too, and every charge relates to interstate trafficking.

Also, when I lived in NM, there was tons of stuff from Cali and Colorado, more than in state. Ya, anyone can grow it, but it was at least thought to be less risky to do it in a state where its quasi-legal. If the local cops catch you, they don't have jurisdiction.

Plus, people want "medical," cause they're silly enough to think its massively superior.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 26, 2012, 06:53:39 PM
DEA enforcement in Montana doesn't bother me (at least no more than my obvious dislike of the war on drugs).  The concern here is the bullshit assurance that he'd let California deal with California's marijuana situation.  And I'm not aware of any interstate aspect to raiding dispensaries and training facilities.  Why would a legal shop owner risk his livelihood selling illegally when he's doing well above board?  Holder's going after intermediate size dispensaries that don't seem to be connected to any exporting.

As for NM, two points come to mind.  Discerning dopers won't give a shit if it's medical grade pot from Cali or Colorado; that's what you tell to the poseurs.  Somebody offers me dope from Cali or Amsterdam and I'm gonna laugh at them for automatically assuming it's superior to what I'm already smoking.  That makes me wonder if it actually was imported, or if it's salesmanship.  The other thing is that even if they were transporting it, which seems pretty foolish to me, that doesn't necessarily make it related to the state's legal interest in medicinal dope.  I suspect that dopers were moving around grass long before either of those states legitimized their stoners.  By the way, I'd bet money that most of the non-Mexican dope in NM is either homegrown or from Texas, where the laws are more favorable than Cali or Colorado. 

Rolling Stone is the latest to publish a story on what's going on.  Here's the section dealing with some examples of legitimate operations getting wiped out by swat teams and bogus criminal threats:
Quote
Since the federal crackdown began last year, the DEA has raided dozens of medical-cannabis dispensaries from Michigan to Montana. Haag, the U.S. attorney for Northern California, claims the federal action is necessary because the state's legalized pot dispensaries have been "hijacked by profiteers" who are nothing more than criminals.

It's true that California has no shortage of illegal pot dealers. Nonmedical marijuana is the state's largest cash crop, raking in an estimated $14 billion a year. And demand is growing, in part because former governor Arnold Schwarzenegger thwarted a ballot measure aimed at full legalization in 2010 by removing criminal penalties for possession of up to an ounce of pot. But instead of focusing limited federal resources on off-the-grid growers in places like Humboldt County, who are often armed and violent, Haag targeted Matthew Cohen, a medical-marijuana farmer in Mendocino who was growing 99 plants under the direct supervision of the county sheriff. As part of a pioneering collaboration with local law enforcement, Cohen marked each of his plants with county-supplied tags, had his secured facility inspected and distributed the mari­juana he grew directly to patients in his nonprofit collective.

Cohen appeared to be precisely the kind of caregiver that the Ogden memo advised should be given safe harbor for operating in "clear and unambiguous compliance with existing state law." But last October, DEA agents stormed Cohen's farm in the middle of the night and cut down his crop. Sheriff Tom Allman, who learned of the raid on his turf only an hour before it was executed, was outraged. "Matt Cohen was not in violation of any state or local ordinances when federal agents arrived at his location," Allman says. In January, Haag took the fight to the next level, threatening county officials like Allman with federal sanctions. Three weeks later, county supervisors voted to abandon the program to license and monitor Mendocino's legal growers. "This is a huge step backward," says Allman.

Haag's treatment of urban dispensaries has been equally ham-handed. She recently shuttered one of the oldest dispensaries in the state, a nonprofit that serves a high percentage of female patients in Marin County, which has the nation's highest rate of breast cancer. She has threatened to seize the properties that landlords rent to legal pot dispensaries. And in San Francisco, she targeted Divinity Tree, a cooperative run by a quadriplegic who himself relies on prescribed cannabis for relief from near-constant muscle spasms. At a time of high unemployment and huge budget deficits, the move killed more than a dozen jobs and deprived the state of $180,000 in annual tax revenue. In San Diego alone, the feds have shut down nearly two-thirds of the county's dispensaries. Statewide, the United Food and Commercial Workers Union estimates, the federal crackdown has destroyed some 2,500 jobs in California. It also sent street prices soaring by at least 20 percent, putting more money in the hands of actual criminals.

In addition, the federal war on medical marijuana has locked pot dispensaries out of the banking system – especially in Colorado, home to the nation's second-largest market for medicinal cannabis. Top banks – including Chase, Wells Fargo and Bank of America – are refusing to do business with state-licensed dispensaries, for fear of federal prosecution for money-laundering and other federal drug crimes. In a House hearing in December, Rep. Jared Polis of Colorado warned Attorney General Holder that strong-arming banks will actually raise the likelihood of crime. If pot dispensaries have to work outside the normal financial system, Polis told Holder, "it makes the industry harder for the state to track, to tax, to regulate them, and in fact makes it prone to robberies, because it becomes a cash business."

The IRS has also joined in the administration's assault on pot dispensaries, seeking to deny them standard tax deductions enjoyed by all other businesses. Invoking an obscure provision of the tax code meant to trip up drug kingpins, the IRS now maintains that pot dispensaries can deduct only one expense – ironically, the cost of the marijuana itself. All other normal costs of doing business – including employee salaries and benefits, rent, equipment, electricity and water – have been denied.

The agency has used the provision to go after Harborside Health Center, one of the largest and most respected providers of medical cannabis in California. Its Oakland branch, serving 83,000 patients in conforming with state law, paid more than $1 million in city taxes last year – placing it in the top 10 percent of local businesses. "It's incredibly tightly run and very, very professional," says Nadelmann of the Drug Policy Alliance. "But it's also big – and it may be that big is bad as far as the feds are concerned." Slapped with an IRS bill for $2.5 million in back taxes, Harborside now faces bankruptcy. "It's profoundly inaccurate to characterize us as a 'drug-trafficking' organization," says Harborside president Steve DeAngelo. "We are a nonprofit community-service organization that helps sick and suffering people get the medicine they need to be well. This is not an attempt to tax us – it's an attempt to tax us out of existence."

Read more: https://www.rollingstone.com/politics/news/obamas-war-on-pot-20120216#ixzz1w1hYb2aD

The nifty part is that not only is he a lying asshole, to the extent that he's actually condoning these operations, he's a fucking idiot.  He's deliberately targeting the legitimate entities, and greatly empowering the criminal element.  I gather that's his intention, actually.  Make the California experiment the biggest disaster it can, so it can turn around and say "see, we told you it would be a disaster!"  Of course the effect is the same as the rest of the war on drugs.  Propping up criminals and abusing citizens.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 26, 2012, 07:12:12 PM
I didn't read Obama's name anywhere. Correct me if I'm wrong, but the man has bigger fish to fry, and US Attorneys act somewhat independently.

They're casting way too big of a net, because its not the dispensaries, but the producers for those dispensaries, who are often third party. It is an actual problem, and I know this because I knew more than one person who would run the stuff from Cali. They were idiots, but its what they were doing. Same goes for Colorado.

Besides, do you think a Republican president would be better? The President has no lasting authority on the matter, so its not a real solution to the problem. Blame Congress for continuing the prohibition.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on May 26, 2012, 07:21:34 PM
I think a Republican president was better.  Ashcroft's administration made token efforts, pretty much keeping things honest.  Holder's administration is making a concerted effort to destroy medicinal marijuana in every state it exists.  Insofar as marijuana interests go, I suspect everybody would prefer to have Dumbass back. 

And the two people most responsible for this are the AG and the head of the DEA.  One's a cabinet level position and both serve at the president's pleasure.  Furthermore, I'm pretty confident that on at least one occasion, the topic of how to deal with medical marijuana in California was discussed with him.  It's not like strangers are acting on their own accord in defiance of his wishes. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on May 26, 2012, 10:11:02 PM
No, but there is bureaucratic inertia.

Dumbass, was well, dumbass. Ashcroft and Gonzales? didn't seem very good at their job. Since 2009, the industry grew a lot. Perhaps not in Cali, but def. in Colorado, Montana, New Mexico, and in other Western States. At least in Montana, its the conservatives who called on the Feds, and its the conservatives who have issues with the growing acceptance. Short of incompetence, I really don't see a conservative having a better position on this. I think I'd like incompetence in the DEA, but the AG?

I disagree with the actions, I just don't hate or blame Obama for the current state of affairs like you do. What bothers me more about Obamas policies relate to "national security" and our presence in Afghanistan. There, Obama has actual authority.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on June 01, 2012, 02:19:00 PM
An entertaining Cracked article that I found to be surprisingly convincing: https://www.cracked.com/article_19402_6-mind-blowing-ways-zombies-vampires-explain-america.html?wa_user1=4&wa_user2=Movies+%26+TV&wa_user3=article&wa_user4=recommended
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Tick on June 03, 2012, 11:37:07 AM
(https://i.qkme.me/3pj11g.jpg)
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on June 03, 2012, 11:57:50 AM
Meh.  Not only is the logic flawed, and the targets misplaced (hippie girl there doesn't give a shit about soda bans), but it's just as applicable to the right:


Abortion:  It's a defenseless child and we have to protect it from harm!

Soda:  If I want to raise a fat fuck diabetic toddler, that's none of your business!
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on June 03, 2012, 12:25:19 PM
Calling it a comparison between apples and oranges would be a massive understatement.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Tick on June 03, 2012, 02:34:56 PM
Whatever. I found it amusing.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Tanatra on June 03, 2012, 03:37:09 PM
(https://i.qkme.me/3pj11g.jpg)

Haha, I remember when this meme was all over Facebook. My favorite one was "Concerned about hormones in milk - Takes acid from strangers."

Someone also did this photo caption meme with young Republicans, using a picture of a college-age kid in a business suit with a douchebag smile on his face.  The only one that stuck out in my mind was particularly true: "Loves wars - Doesn't enlist."
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on June 03, 2012, 05:16:02 PM
Well actually that's a photo of the Wash U (or maybe George Washington U, I can't remember) college Republican club president.

My favorite of him:

https://www.quickmeme.com/meme/35k58d/
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sir GuitarCozmo on June 04, 2012, 11:32:54 AM
My mother, who loves to post Obama bashing shit to her Facebook page, made me think about something today.  There are a lot of people I know, my mother included, who never in their life have shown me one OUNCE of interest in anything even remotely political.

Until a black man became President.

All of the sudden, people who didn't give a damn about politics have this newfound interest in it.

Strange how that works...
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on June 04, 2012, 11:36:33 AM
Retaliatory arrest?  Really?
Supreme Court backs Secret Service arrest of man confronting Cheney (https://www.latimes.com/news/politics/la-pn-supreme-court-backs-secret-service-arrest-of-man-confronting-cheney-20120604,0,5913692.story)

If there's probable cause to detain somebody, then arrest them.  If there's not, don't.  Seems really straight forward to me.  Now we seem to have a new element to factor in--retaliatory arrest.  Retaliatory implies that it was done for a reason outside legitimacy.  Seriously, WTF?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on June 04, 2012, 02:05:47 PM
Retaliatory arrest?  Really?
Supreme Court backs Secret Service arrest of man confronting Cheney (https://www.latimes.com/news/politics/la-pn-supreme-court-backs-secret-service-arrest-of-man-confronting-cheney-20120604,0,5913692.story)

If there's probable cause to detain somebody, then arrest them.  If there's not, don't.  Seems really straight forward to me.  Now we seem to have a new element to factor in--retaliatory arrest.  Retaliatory implies that it was done for a reason outside legitimacy.  Seriously, WTF?

Was hoping it was at least a 5-4 decision, then I read it was unanimous.

Once again, the Supreme Court coming to a decision that seems to run smack in the face of common sense. I'm all for letting the Secret Service have a little bit more power than would normally be the case, but there was obviously no threat from this person, and so any justification they could throw out there is gone.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: GuineaPig on June 18, 2012, 07:32:29 AM
Today's the bicentennial of the start of the War of 1812.  What are the odds we get an AndyDT thread?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: eric42434224 on June 19, 2012, 12:05:53 PM
I wonder what the over / under is on when Omega will get the PR ban hammer again, when still fresh off the first ban, he posts stuff like this:

Through past experience attempting to discuss philosophical matters -- especially morality -- with others here on this subforum, I've come to discover just how immature and emotional DTFers can be when discussing (attempting to discuss seems a more apt wording of it) certain philosophical matters, if not philosophy in general. Not only would I not be able to get one measly post into the ordeal before receiving point-missing and immature responses such as "but atheists can act good and morally too" (guilty as charged, rumborak) or "lol I don't need to believe in some magical fairy or leprechaun to tell me how to act good," but I'd also have to face the prospect of being "warned" again or some such nonsense after an utterly confused crowd of DTFers who aren't even half sure what to be angry about barge into the thread and demand my head on a platter for having the audacity of disagreeing with and challenging the predominantly secular worldview that most of the users happen to share on this subforum.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on June 19, 2012, 12:08:15 PM
What does over/under mean?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: DebraKadabra on June 19, 2012, 12:10:14 PM
Vegas odds.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on June 19, 2012, 12:11:09 PM
Oh you colonials and your odd terminology.



Anywho, he won't be banned for that. Since he didn't bring it up, other people did.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: eric42434224 on June 19, 2012, 12:12:47 PM
What does over/under mean?

In sports betting, an over/under means you are betting over or under a specific number, like a point total between 2 teams.
Lets say the over/under for a football game is 42 points.  If you feel the two teams will score more than a combined 42 points, you bet the over.  If you feel they will score less than 42 combined, you bet the under.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: eric42434224 on June 19, 2012, 12:16:11 PM
Oh you colonials and your odd terminology.

Anywho, he won't be banned for that. Since he didn't bring it up, other people did.

Saying we wont explain himself because the DTF posters who disagree with him are "immature", "emotional", and are unable to properly discuss philosophy wasnt a topic brought up by anyone.  It looks like his condescending attitude towards other posters hasnt changed.  I am taking the under.

EDIT:
Funny enough, I was going to send a pm welcoming him back, assuming that he had plead his case to the mods, and had changed his ways.  Then I saw that post.   :facepalm:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Omega on June 19, 2012, 12:28:32 PM
You know I can read this thread, right, eric?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Omega on June 19, 2012, 12:35:59 PM
How about, eric, you stop talking about me behind my back (proverbially, as it were) and stop antagonizing me, no?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on June 19, 2012, 12:38:33 PM
How about, eric, you stop talking about me behind my back (proverbially, as it were) and stop antagonizing me, no?

It's a chat thread. Should we start a thread dedicated to someone asking if we think you'll be banned again?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Omega on June 19, 2012, 12:40:29 PM
Should you even be asking if or suggesting for someone to be banned again? Should it ever be fine to antagonize another user?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on June 19, 2012, 12:41:58 PM
Should you even be asking if or suggesting for someone to be banned again? Should it ever be fine to antagonize another user?

No one suggested you should be banned. I even pointed out that I don't think you will be. But if you jump into a pool, you should expect some waves.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: eric42434224 on June 19, 2012, 12:53:03 PM
You know I can read this thread, right, eric?

Yes I do.

How about, eric, you stop talking about me behind my back (proverbially, as it were) and stop antagonizing me, no?

I am not talking about you behind your back.  I am talking about you in a public thread.  I think that your posting style has got you in trouble, and it appears you havent learned your lesson.  This is readily apparent by calling other posters immature and emotional.  Don't think of it as antagonizing, but think of it as someone trying to alert you that the behavoir which caused you to take a vacation hasnt changed.
I hope you stay, but I am taking the under.
Good luck.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Omega on June 19, 2012, 12:53:14 PM
Whether I ever "jumped in" such a pool is precisely what is in question. The main reason why I ever received warnings and such is because people begin to unfairly antagonize me and post comments precisely like "wonder when he will be banned again" which then a hair-tiggered mod sees and erroneously convinces himself that some sort of disciplinary action must be taken. It's a simple-minded snowball effect which comments like eric's only serve to initiate. So how about you and others grant me the reciprocal courtesy of not conversing about my standing with the mods or my "closeness" to being banned. And while we're there, how about we also stop with the " :facepalm: Wow here we go again! Close the thread" manure-of-comments which are not only rude and annoying, but also contribute to that pathetic snow-ball situation I just described. It goes without saying that I'm quite sure that I've not participated in any of those petty actions towards any other forum member. I just expect the same in return.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: eric42434224 on June 19, 2012, 12:56:16 PM
Whether I ever "jumped in" such a pool is precisely what is in question. The main reason why I ever received warnings and such is because people begin to unfairly antagonize me and post comments precisely like "wonder when he will be banned again" which then a hair-tiggered mod sees and erroneously convinces himself that some sort of disciplinary action must be taken. It's a simple-minded snowball effect which comments like eric's only serve to initiate. So how about you and others grant me the reciprocal courtesy of not conversing about my standing with the mods or my "closeness" to being banned. And while we're there, how about we also stop with the " :facepalm: Wow here we go again! Close the thread" which are not only rude and annoying, but also contribute to that pathetic snow-ball situation I just described. It goes without saying that I'm quite sure that I've not participated in any of those petty actions towards any other forum member. I just expect the same in return.

The only reason you were warned/banned was because people unfairly antagonized you?
That statement is 100% deserving of a  :facepalm:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Omega on June 19, 2012, 12:58:57 PM
Whether I ever "jumped in" such a pool is precisely what is in question. The main reason why I ever received warnings and such is because people begin to unfairly antagonize me and post comments precisely like "wonder when he will be banned again" which then a hair-tiggered mod sees and erroneously convinces himself that some sort of disciplinary action must be taken. It's a simple-minded snowball effect which comments like eric's only serve to initiate. So how about you and others grant me the reciprocal courtesy of not conversing about my standing with the mods or my "closeness" to being banned. And while we're there, how about we also stop with the " :facepalm: Wow here we go again! Close the thread" which are not only rude and annoying, but also contribute to that pathetic snow-ball situation I just described. It goes without saying that I'm quite sure that I've not participated in any of those petty actions towards any other forum member. I just expect the same in return.

The only reason you were warned/banned was because people unfairly antagonized you?
That statement is 100% deserving of a  :facepalm:

The main reason

Cease conversing with me or about me, eric. I've not the patience to do so with you.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: eric42434224 on June 19, 2012, 01:04:28 PM
Whether I ever "jumped in" such a pool is precisely what is in question. The main reason why I ever received warnings and such is because people begin to unfairly antagonize me and post comments precisely like "wonder when he will be banned again" which then a hair-tiggered mod sees and erroneously convinces himself that some sort of disciplinary action must be taken. It's a simple-minded snowball effect which comments like eric's only serve to initiate. So how about you and others grant me the reciprocal courtesy of not conversing about my standing with the mods or my "closeness" to being banned. And while we're there, how about we also stop with the " :facepalm: Wow here we go again! Close the thread" which are not only rude and annoying, but also contribute to that pathetic snow-ball situation I just described. It goes without saying that I'm quite sure that I've not participated in any of those petty actions towards any other forum member. I just expect the same in return.

The only reason you were warned/banned was because people unfairly antagonized you?
That statement is 100% deserving of a  :facepalm:

The main reason

Cease conversing with me or about me, eric. I've not the patience to do so with you.

I think you will be solving that problem by yourself.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on June 19, 2012, 01:05:05 PM
Omega you seem like a very intelligent person. However the only way to not get banned around here (in your case especially) is to take some responcibility for your actions and stop attacking everyone who disagrees with you. You weren't warned/banned because the rest of us all decided to gang up on you. You got warned/banned because you are very antagonizing toward the rest of us. You belittle everyone who disagrees with you and cannot seem to comprehend that view points other than your own are equally valid as yours. You drag on convo's for the sake of not admitting that you needn't be dominant. This is what got you in trouble. All you have to do is try to be a little nicer, calmer and more open minded and you'll do fine.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: yeshaberto on June 19, 2012, 01:21:50 PM
Not really any profit to discussing the fate of omega, so please move on. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on June 19, 2012, 01:23:22 PM
Not really any profit to discussing the fate of omega, so please move on.


Fair enough. 10 to 1 odds says Yeshaberto gets permabanned. Anyone want to take that one?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on June 19, 2012, 01:30:19 PM
This is why I love you all.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on June 19, 2012, 01:30:52 PM
Not really any profit to discussing the fate of omega, so please move on.


Fair enough. 10 to 1 odds says Yeshaberto gets permabanned. Anyone want to take that one?
.
Twenty quatloos on the newcomer.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on June 19, 2012, 01:31:53 PM
Not really any profit to discussing the fate of omega, so please move on.


Fair enough. 10 to 1 odds says Yeshaberto gets permabanned. Anyone want to take that one?
.
Twenty quatloos on the newcomer.

I see your twenty quatloos sir and raise you 5 bars of gold pressed latinum.

Wait, who's the new comer?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: eric42434224 on June 19, 2012, 01:33:51 PM
This is why I love you all.

You dont love us.

You want us for a possession, something to look at like a painting or an ivory box.
Something to own and to display. You dont want us to be real, or to think or to live.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on June 19, 2012, 01:34:36 PM
This is why I love you all.

You dont love us.

You want us for a possession, something to look at like a painting or an ivory box.
Something to own and to display. You dont want us to be real, or to think or to live.

Yea but it's a dry heat.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on June 19, 2012, 01:36:08 PM
I think a better wager would be a which comes first: Yesh gets permabanned, or Yesh gets promoted to New Jesus.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on June 19, 2012, 01:37:28 PM
I think a better wager would be a which comes first: Yesh gets permabanned, or Yesh gets promoted to New Jesus.


I bet 5 tribbles that he gets promoted to New Jesus.


Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: yeshaberto on June 19, 2012, 01:40:29 PM
does this involve wearing sandals and a robe and traveling around healing people?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on June 19, 2012, 01:41:22 PM
does this involve wearing sandals and a robe and traveling around healing people?

It involves wearing sandals, then dying then being really disappointed once that happens.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on June 19, 2012, 01:41:44 PM
What if his new gig is contingent on his willingness to sack the original one first?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on June 19, 2012, 01:43:12 PM
What if his new gig is contingent on his willingness to sack the original one first?

Ohhh I like that. Would you kill your own god to become the next god? Very interesting.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on June 19, 2012, 01:45:32 PM
does this involve wearing sandals and a robe and traveling around healing people?

It involves wearing sandals, then dying then being really disappointed once that happens.

Well fuck, that's an easy job description.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on June 19, 2012, 01:46:14 PM
I'd be all over it, but in Yeshua's case, I'd put my money on the permaban.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Omega on June 19, 2012, 01:55:09 PM
Omega you seem like a very intelligent person. However the only way to not get banned around here (in your case especially) is to take some responcibility for your actions and stop attacking everyone who disagrees with you. You weren't warned/banned because the rest of us all decided to gang up on you. You got warned/banned because you are very antagonizing toward the rest of us. You belittle everyone who disagrees with you and cannot seem to comprehend that view points other than your own are equally valid as yours. You drag on convo's for the sake of not admitting that you needn't be dominant. This is what got you in trouble. All you have to do is try to be a little nicer, calmer and more open minded and you'll do fine.

Thanks, Adami (no, that's not sarcasm). Yet there's a deep conflict here in DTF that has contributed greatly to my warnings and banning and such:

Quote
You cannot seem to comprehend that view points other than your own are equally valid as yours.

This very idea is what has caused so much confusion on this subforum. For it is patently false. All "view points" cannot fail to be unequally as valid as others. You and others seem to have succumbed to a deeply pernicious form of relativism in which all view points are equally as valid as others. But that cannot fail to be false. For example, under this supposition, were I to propose some absurdity such as that the law of gravity doesn't exist and is nothing more than an illusory tool thought up by men to empower themselves and to subordinate women, you'd have to grant that my view point is as "equally valid" as any other. Or you might say "that's true for you, perhaps," but that simply denies that there exists truth that is independent of the mind and which we can all (and indeed do all) acknowledge exists whether one realizes such or not. Unfortunately, such is often taken for granted. For if we accept that radical supposition that other view points are all equally valid, then we cannot say to someone who believes such an absurd thing about gravity that he is wrong. All we could do is merely say that we "don't like" his viewpoint. Truth would become nothing more than a subjective opinion. It goes without saying that such philosophical sophistry has not only been defeated since the time of Socrates, but is also patently self-defeating. Analogues can be drawn, for example, in one of the many discussions I've participated on cosmology here on DTF. I would claim and defend, for example (and this is just an example; I'm not defending such a claim here nor am I interested in defending it at the present in such an intellectually noxious environment), that both scientific discoveries and philosophical arguments entail that the universe began to exist and that the universe's ultimate fate was to succumb to heat death. Yet instead of pointing flaws in the arguments I employed to arrive at such conclusion and out of a motivation to reject the conclusions I reached because they didn't sit well with their atheism, many users instead opted to say such absurdities and non-sequitors as "well, that's just your viewpoint" or "you can believe that, but I don't". But such poppycock is hardly a defense of their own views and hardly a critique of the conclusions I arrived at through scientific and philosophical means. If anything, such utterances only serve to demonstrate just how philosophically uninformed such a person really is. And the fact that such a radical supposition is held by the majority of the users on this forum -- even by some of the moderators, it appears -- (and which played a large part in my banning and still plays a large part in my antagonization) is a sure sign of the deeply rooted intellectual and philosophical decadence of the community of users of the P/R section of DTF (note that, if it's not obvious enough, I'm not calling anyone anything like "stupid" nor is it my goal to do so. If that is what you have taken away from reading this, then I'm afraid you've grossly misunderstood the observation I'm making here).

Furthermore, Adami, I'm not sure the accusation that I'm "attacking everyone who disagrees with me" is fair; to be sure, one can surely misunderstand or misconstrue my posts to be an "attack" on others, but that is not the case. The only sense in which I "attack" others is by critiquing their worldview through (hopefully) reasoned responses posts. I don't ever recall dismissing another's arguments or conclusions because of the person presenting them (ad hominem fallacy) nor do I recall ever attacking someone personally. I'll accept, though, the charge that I may have been impolite here and there (which were often in response to impoliteness towards me), but haven't we all been impolite in dealing with others on the internet at least once? Also, I don't "drag conversations on for the sake of not admitting that you needn't be dominant"; I rather defend my assertions as I would expect anyone else to do if they come to be critiqued or challenged by others.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: yeshaberto on June 19, 2012, 02:06:42 PM
Omega, I am giving you the benefit of the doubt that you have not yet read my PM or my post in the fear of death thread.
Do not post in P/R.  If you can do so voluntarily, this will be a bonus.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Progmetty on June 19, 2012, 03:33:24 PM
Mubarak is not dead, SCAF has been cooking this up for a while so he'd be taken out of Egypt.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on June 19, 2012, 03:34:21 PM
Mubarak is not dead, SCAF has been cooking this up for a while so he'd be taken out of Egypt.

........he's not dead? Alrighty then.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on June 19, 2012, 04:25:05 PM
Mubarak is not dead, SCAF has been cooking this up for a while so he'd be taken out of Egypt.
I was curious if that was a possibility.  The man's health crashed really hard and with spectacular timing.  Seems like if it's a scam they should have drawn it out a bit longer.  Looks kind of obvious at the moment.

Personally, I don't care as long as he's officially declared dead so I get my points.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Progmetty on June 19, 2012, 11:36:50 PM
I think he will be, it missed this time but they were trying. It will work next time.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: wolfandwolfandwolf on June 20, 2012, 07:22:15 AM
I just read that the father that beat to death a man sexually assaulting his young daughter won't be indicted.  It's a good thing when the system works.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on June 20, 2012, 07:56:32 AM
I just read that the father that beat to death a man sexually assaulting his young daughter won't be indicted.  It's a good thing when the system works.
I didn't have a problem with what happened, but I didn't like the way it was covered or the way people were so thrilled about it.  Since nobody ever mentioned the nature of the alleged assault, we don't really have any way of knowing if it was actually justified.  And whether the guy deserved it or not, I don't consider it a happy outcome when somebody's beaten to death by an angry farmer.  Though occasionally understandable, mob justice isn't really a good thing.

Like I said, I would have probably voted to no-bill the guy as well, but it certainly exposed a couple of sorrier aspects about life in these here United States. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on June 25, 2012, 02:23:27 PM
With all the discussion about US vs. Arizona, lost in the mix is that John Roberts joined with the majority on all parts.  Alito also supported shooting down the ID provision.  I still think Alito is a lost cause, but I've said all along that Roberts isn't the rubber stamp they want him to be. 

The scary part is that three of those assholes think a law that requires US citizens to carry papers on them at all times is valid. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on June 25, 2012, 02:40:34 PM
This law makes the perfect kind of fucked up federal logic this country is built on. The police can check the papers, they just can't do anything about it. And the Feds have authority over the punishment for this kind of thing. Unless I'm misunderstanding the ruling, it almost seems... logical. I mean, so what if the police can ask for your papers, it doesn't have any actual consequences, does it?

Stripped of everything else in the bill, that one provision seems rather impotent. Unnecessarily, useless, stupid, but completely impotent.

Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on June 25, 2012, 02:54:26 PM
Federal logic?  It's Arizona's law, not the US's.  Frankly, it's their fault for passing a law that doesn't reconcile with the current version of the Constitution. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on June 25, 2012, 06:19:10 PM
Err by law, I meant federal decision. The fact that they let the police check for papers and legal immigration status, they just don't get them the power to do anything about it.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on June 27, 2012, 06:14:22 AM
I saw this today and laughed:

(https://www.pslweb.org/liberationnews/newspaper/vol-6-no-9/infographic-absurd.png)

https://www.pslweb.org/liberationnews/newspaper/vol-6-no-9/infographic-absurd.png
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on June 27, 2012, 06:43:32 AM
I don't suppose you have a higher resolution for that? I can't see Massachusetts' poverty rate.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on June 27, 2012, 07:13:49 AM
Edited my post with the original image. You better be happy because it took me all of 1 minute to find that website.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on June 27, 2012, 07:15:52 AM
I'm not happy. I'll never be satisfied until the greedy capitalist class is brought to their knees.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: AcidLameLTE on June 27, 2012, 07:16:26 AM
D:
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on June 27, 2012, 10:38:42 AM
The only thing I take issue with, is how much we should even call this Capitalism. Capitalism is about taking capital and investing it into new means of production, and thereby growing the economy (least, that's what I remember about the little bit of Adam Smith I read). That's not even close to what this country does now.

But that's a minor, somewhat semantical point. I get what the person means, and I couldn't agree more.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: pogoowner on June 27, 2012, 01:41:42 PM
What's the definition of "poverty?" Or "near poor?" Because I have a feeling I'll disagree with it.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on June 27, 2012, 01:52:41 PM
What's the definition of "poverty?" Or "near poor?" Because I have a feeling I'll disagree with it.

Persons in
family/household    Poverty guideline
1    $11,170
2    15,130
3    19,090
4    23,050
5    27,010
6    30,970
7    34,930
8    38,890
For families/households with more than 8 persons,
add $3,960 for each additional person.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on June 27, 2012, 01:57:16 PM
Holy shit, that's even lower than I thought it was.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on June 27, 2012, 02:07:57 PM
Yeah, I couldn't imagine having to make do on that.  The cheapest, crackhouse apt down here is about $325/month.  Another $135 in utilities.   After taxes, that's nearly half your salary just for housing. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: pogoowner on June 27, 2012, 03:06:16 PM
Yeah, I couldn't imagine having to make do on that.  The cheapest, crackhouse apt down here is about $325/month.  Another $135 in utilities.   After taxes, that's nearly half your salary just for housing. 
It is doable... UNLESS something goes wrong unexpectedly (medical bill, car breakdown, etc.).

But yeah, that actually is much lower than I expected.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on June 27, 2012, 03:44:53 PM
I feel for people hovering just above the poverty line. From what accounts I've read, they're poor enough to be one unexpected calamity away from eviction, but too "well off" to apply for welfare programs of any kind.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on June 27, 2012, 04:10:33 PM
Yeah, I couldn't imagine having to make do on that.  The cheapest, crackhouse apt down here is about $325/month.  Another $135 in utilities.   After taxes, that's nearly half your salary just for housing.

And if you're a young student, add in another $200-$300 in student loan bills.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on June 27, 2012, 07:42:29 PM
Well...tomorrow's gonna be interesting.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on June 27, 2012, 08:11:58 PM
Indeed.  I'm really torn on the whole thing.  I think it's a lousy plan, and I won't be sorry if it gets shot down.  At the same time there are aspects of it that genuinely help a lot of people, and I'd hate to see them fall victim to senseless partisan bullshit.  Add to that, most of the criticism is totally misguided and really reflects one the things I hate most about shallow and simple-minded Americans. 

The flip side is that I think there's a reasonable chance it stands up.  I really don't know what Scalia or Roberts will do on this one.  My hunch is that if the conservative bloc shoots down the individual mandate, they'll whack the whole bill.  I don't really see it as their responsibility to so such a thing, and nor should the people who bitch and moan about judicial activism, but I can see them taking the in for a pound approach.  It's the same knuckle-headed business as Bush v. Gore.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on June 27, 2012, 08:44:29 PM
I'm conflicted for the same reasons. I'd kinda like to see it scrapped so it can be done again some time in the future the right way. But, as you said, it really is helping people. Tough.

Here's my wacky prediction:

Upheld, 6-3. Roberts writes the majority opinion. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on June 28, 2012, 05:32:09 AM
Yeah, sorry to say but I'm in it for the senseless partisan bullshit. :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on June 28, 2012, 08:03:11 AM
Yeah, you're gonna get a helluva lot of it coming up.  That's really my biggest annoyance about the whole thing, more than what it actually means.  We're gonna get 3 days of non-stop gloating and whining from people with invalid opinions based more on bullshit than fact. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on June 28, 2012, 08:17:52 AM
Looks like Roberts was the swing vote to uphold it in full.  Torn on the outcome, but happy about how it came to be.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on June 28, 2012, 08:33:36 AM
It would appear that the conservatives voted en masse that the entire thing was unconstitutional. The liberals said it was valid under commerce and under taxation. Roberts as the swing vote upheld it under taxation, but not commerce. Pretty entertaining outcome.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on June 28, 2012, 08:34:48 AM
Oh yeah, and Stolen Valor was shot down, as well.  Doubt we'll see as much coverage on that one, but it's good thing that it happened. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on June 28, 2012, 09:41:36 AM
From the Texas Republican Part Platform (PDF) (https://s3.amazonaws.com/texasgop_pre/assets/original/2012Platform_Final.pdf):

Quote
Knowledge-Based Education – We oppose the teaching of Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) (values clarification), critical thinking skills and similar programs that are simply a relabeling of Outcome-Based Education (OBE) (mastery learning) which focus on behavior modification and have the purpose of challenging the student’s fixed beliefs and undermining parental authority


lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on June 28, 2012, 11:42:18 AM
It would appear that the conservatives voted en masse that the entire thing was unconstitutional. The liberals said it was valid under commerce and under taxation. Roberts as the swing vote upheld it under taxation, but not commerce. Pretty entertaining outcome.

I found it interesting to hear Roberts say this:

Quote
Chief Justice Roberts added: "It is well established that if a statute has two possible meanings, one of which violates the Constitution, courts should adopt the meaning that does not do so."

The more I think about this, the more comforting, and disturbing, it becomes.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: El Barto on June 28, 2012, 11:57:03 AM
Just skimmed the opinion on Stolen Valor.  The dissenters made a very good argument but based it on a faulty premise.  If there were tangible harm done as a result of the lies told, then a law prohibiting them would be reasonable based on their logic.  However, the harm that's done appears to be entirely emotional.  Frankly, stifling free speech to keep people from getting butt-hurt is about as wrong as it gets. 

BTW, it was another instance of Roberts siding with the left bloc.  This was the third major decision he's blown for the Republicans in as many days.  I'm wondering if he's sought secret service protection yet. 
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: antigoon on June 28, 2012, 03:51:51 PM
So I was half right. I read the complete opinion at work and I found myself hard-pressed to really disagree with any of it.

I think this is the right result.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on June 28, 2012, 07:17:05 PM
BTW, it was another instance of Roberts siding with the left bloc.  This was the third major decision he's blown for the Republicans in as many days.  I'm wondering if he's sought secret service protection yet.

Looks like they might try to blame his competence, because he's on medication. Because, ya know, you have to be stupid / incompetent to be a liberal.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: ohgar on July 07, 2012, 11:19:23 AM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F9SOVzMV2bc
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: YtseBitsySpider on July 13, 2012, 05:41:42 AM
UH OH....Joe Pa knew!!!!

Im stunned.

Fry his ass too....sorry, to all the Church of Joe people....you just don't cover that shit up for sake of school's reputation.

if this guy had a legacy...it's now in the toilet.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Guy Fawkes Mask on July 17, 2012, 03:04:17 PM
Hey guys,

I thought posting here would be appropriate. I've been lurking for quite some time, and I think I'm finally going to set up shop and throw some opinions around. You'll probably see me over in the music discussion area also.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on July 17, 2012, 03:06:35 PM
Hey guys,

I thought posting here would be appropriate. I've been lurking for quite some time, and I think I'm finally going to set up shop and throw some opinions around. You'll probably see me over in the music discussion area also.

Something tells me you're going to be libertarian in your principles, or close to it. Hmmm.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on July 17, 2012, 03:07:37 PM
As if the username wasn't clue enough. :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Guy Fawkes Mask on July 17, 2012, 03:13:57 PM
Hey guys,

I thought posting here would be appropriate. I've been lurking for quite some time, and I think I'm finally going to set up shop and throw some opinions around. You'll probably see me over in the music discussion area also.

Something tells me you're going to be libertarian in your principles, or close to it. Hmmm.

Hmm. Meh. From what I've seen on this board, there is a strong right-libertarian lean when it comes to folks under the "x axis" so to speak. I'm far far far from that. Ayn Rand was a wingbat. In a utopian world, I most certainly would be a left libertarian with the likes of Bakunin, Kropotkin and Chomskey. Unfortunately, this is the real world where everyone can't gather into a commune, so my practical views are rather far from my utopian ones. For what it's worth, my political compass test, which I've seen you guys like, is rougly -8,-7.

As for the name...it just looks cool.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Adami on July 17, 2012, 03:15:53 PM
Not a fan of Chomsky for obvious reasons, but it's cool that you're not a right winged libertarian.

Looking forward to seeing what you post, and possibly having Parliament blown up.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Guy Fawkes Mask on July 17, 2012, 03:16:57 PM
To be honest, I'm not sure what your "obvious reasons" are. Perhaps you could enlighten me.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on July 17, 2012, 03:21:39 PM
I can't speak for him, but I think Chomsky's crazy. And as for your political views, I find it interesting. Can't say I agree 100%, but hey, that's politics.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on July 17, 2012, 09:05:52 PM
Quote
right-libertarian

Our current system doesn't seem to acknowledge anything else.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Scheavo on July 18, 2012, 11:22:40 AM
So, am I really supposed to take the Sheriff Joe investigation into Obama's records seriously?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Super Dude on July 18, 2012, 01:58:22 PM
What is this? And I would assume not.
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on July 18, 2012, 02:14:27 PM
What is this? And I would assume not.

https://www.latimes.com/news/nation/nationnow/la-na-nn-arpaio-obama-birth-certificate-fraudulent-20120718,0,596040.story
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jaffa on July 18, 2012, 02:37:48 PM
Um.  Is it just me, or did the entirety of P&R get moved to archives?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Sigz on July 18, 2012, 02:38:42 PM
Yeah, wtf?
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: theseoafs on July 18, 2012, 02:39:44 PM
I was trying to figure out how I'd gotten banned from PR for a second. :lol
Title: Re: The P/R-side Chat Thread v.2
Post by: Jaffa on July 18, 2012, 02:40:39 PM
Me too.