Vote NO on a constitutional convention

I just wrote the following message to my state legislators urging them to oppose any call for a constitutional convention.

---

To: Senator Greg Walker; Representative Sean Eberhart
Cc: Representative Eric Allan Koch; Representative Milo Smith
Subject: I urge NO on a constitutional convention

Thank you for your service to the citizens of Indiana.

Please vote NO on any resolution in the Indiana general assembly that petitions Congress to call a constitutional convention (as provided for by Article V of the U.S. Constitution).

I also urge you to vote YES on any resolution to rescind the 1979 resolution of the Indiana general assembly that favored a national constitutional convention.

I've become aware that several organizations are contacting state legislators to promote resolutions petitioning Congress to convene a constitutional convention, so this issue appears likely to come up in our general assembly, if it hasn't already.

Since leading constitutional scholars say a constitutional convention could not be restricted as to the amendments it could consider and propose, I am very concerned that such a convention could lead to proposing one or more amendments that could have a very harmful effect on our freedoms under the U.S. Constitution.

One need look no further than our own country's history to see that a convention called for the purpose of updating the Articles of Confederation ended up leading to an entirely new form of government instead.

With the current state of citizen knowledge of the precepts of liberty in the United States, the odds are not in favor of getting a better government than we have now if this situation should arise in our lifetime.

Although it would take three-quarters of the 50 states to ratify any proposed amendments, the biased news media and other opinion-molding institutions could easily help enable the ratification of undesirable amendments.

I understand that conservatives are split on this issue, but I am among those who feels that the risks posed by a constitutional convention far outweigh the possible benefits.

For more background information on this issue, I highly recommend the following items:

(1) "Beware of Article V," a 36-minute video free to view at
http://www.jbs.org/news-center/birchtube/69

This video was created specifically for helping state legislators understand the negative aspects of convening a constitutional convention.

(2) "Dangers of a Constitutional Convention," an article free to view at
http://www.thenewamerican.com/index.php/usnews/constitution/1241

(3) "Another Endorsement of a Constitutional Convention on Glenn Beck," an article free to view at
http://www.jbs.org/us-constitution-blog/5638

Please be sure to vote NO on any resolution calling for a national constitutional convention for the purpose of amending the U.S. Constitution.

Sincerely,
Bill Starr
Columbus, Indiana
Wed, 30 Dec 2009, 1:16 pm EST

Moral Criticisms of the Market

Ken Ewert does a great job of addressing moral criticisms often leveled against the free market by Christians.

Moral Criticisms of the Market

Postal Employees Live It Up | Cato @ Liberty

"Of course, private companies spend money on conferences, meetings, and events. But they don’t force people to buy their products or use their services. The USPS has a government-granted monopoly over first-class mail. It’s time to put an end to the government mail monopoly, and this audit is one more reason why." -- Tad DeHaven

Postal Employees Live It Up | Cato @ Liberty

Your Neighbor’s Contract You Can’t Refuse

A modern-day parable.

"A contract forced on someone else is not a contract. It is force. Every day, we pay for services we never requested, for prices never agreed to, from people we never met."

Your Neighbor’s Contract You Can’t Refuse

Chuck Baldwin: ‘Anger With Federal Government Not Enough’ | Independent Political Report

If conservatives/constitutionalists/libertarians would spend as much time and energy influencing elections and policies at the State and local levels as they attempt to do at the national level, we could turn this floundering ship of state around. -- Chuck Baldwin

For a fictional version of Mr. Baldwin's proposal, I recommend reading "Molôn Labé!".

Molon Labe! - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Chuck Baldwin: ‘Anger With Federal Government Not Enough’ | Independent Political Report

Which Comes First: Interventionism or Terrorism? by Jacob G. Hornberger

"The intervention comes first. The anger, hatred, resentment, and retaliation come second, followed by cockamamie explanations from the U.S. Empire and its chorus of interventionist supporters as to what has motivated the terrorists to strike." -- Jacob Hornberger

Which Comes First: Interventionism or Terrorism? by Jacob G. Hornberger

Sustainability: An Assault on Economics - Tyler A. Watts - Mises Institute

Excellent explanation of how prices trump "sustainability" in conserving scarce resources.

Sustainability: An Assault on Economics - Tyler A. Watts - Mises Institute

Earliest sunset of the year December 7

December 7 marks the earliest sunset of the year. (December 21 is the shortest day and January 4, 2010 is the latest sunrise, but that oddness is another story).

The natural clock time (aka Local Mean Time) for sunset in Indianapolis is 4:35 pm. This would be our sunset time today if Indianapolis had happened to end up at the middle of a time zone like Philadelphia or Peoria did.

The table below compares sunrise time today in Indianapolis with other United States cities located in their geographically-correct time zone.

You can see that Indy sticks out like a sore thumb on eastern time, but will be back in with the rest of the pack again if or when Indiana goes back to central time.

Sunset times on Monday, 7 December 2009

5:20, Indianapolis (eastern time)


4:35, Philadelphia (middle of eastern time zone)
4:35, Denver (middle of mountain time zone)
4:35, Reno (middle of Pacific time zone)
4:32, Nashville TN (nearly due south of Indy)
4:31, Peoria (middle of central time zone)
4:28, New York City
4:26, Las Vegas
4:20, Indianapolis (if returned back to central time)
4:20, Chicago
4:12, Boston
3:54, Bangor, Maine

Ref: http://www.usno.navy.mil/USNO/astronomical-applications/data-services/rs-one-year-us/

Congressman Ron Paul - Who Wants War? - Texas Straight Talk

Great arguments from Ron Paul against escalating the undeclared war in Afghanistan.

Congressman Ron Paul - Who Wants War? - Texas Straight Talk

Let’s Not Make a Federal Case Out of It! « J. Neil Schulman

Schulman helps put a few "outrages" back in perspective.

Let’s Not Make a Federal Case Out of It! « J. Neil Schulman

Does High Cholesterol REALLY Cause Heart Disease?

Some arguments against the conventional wisdom on cholesterol and statin treatment.

Does High Cholesterol REALLY Cause Heart Disease?

Letter to Congressmen: Support our troops; bring them home

Following is the message I just sent to my congressmen.


I urge you to vote NO to any funding for increasing U.S. troop presence anywhere overseas, including Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iraq, or Iran.

I think it is time to really support our troops by bringing them home, out of harm's way, from the far-flung overseas reaches of the U.S. empire, and getting them back to work producing goods and services that the American people want and will pay for voluntarily.

I am all for maintaining a sufficient, constitution-sized, armed service to defend U.S. borders, but as far as overseas occupations and operations, I favor the defense policy of John Quincy Adams, and urge you to do likewise.

"Wherever the standard of freedom and Independence has been or shall be unfurled, there will America's heart, her benedictions and her prayers be. But she goes not abroad, in search of monsters to destroy. She is the well-wisher to the freedom and independence of all. She is the champion and vindicator only of her own." (U.S. House of Representatives, 4 July 1821)

John Quincy Adams on U.S. Foreign Policy (1821)

Thank you for your service to our state and country.

Sincerely,
Bill Starr
Columbus, Indiana


Contact U.S. Congressman Mike Pence : 6th District Of Indiana
- Fri, 4 Dec 2009, 1:24 pm EST

Contact Richard G. Lugar, United States Senator for Indiana
- Fri, 4 Dec 2009, 1:27 pm EST

Contact Indiana Senator Evan Bayh
- Fri, 4 Dec 2009, 1:29 pm EST

Can the County Sheriff Save the Constitution?

A practical decentralized approach to begin to shake off unconstitutional United States federal government usurpations.

Can the County Sheriff Save the Constitution?

A Penchant for Controlling Others - Llewellyn H. Rockwell Jr. - Mises Institute

Good arguments from Lew Rockwell against banning texting while driving.

A Penchant for Controlling Others - Llewellyn H. Rockwell Jr. - Mises Institute

The Economics of Recycling by Floy Lilley

Informed voluntary recycling conserves resources and raises our wealth. However, forcing people to recycle routinely makes society worse off. Floy Lilley

The Economics of Recycling by Floy Lilley

Mugwumps: public moralists of the ... - Google Books

I just finished reading this book.

Not too long of a read, and sheds some interesting light on the public debates of the late 1800s over the issues of sound money, tariffs, civil service reform, and imperialism.

I find myself in sympathy with the Mugwumps on their political views on these issues, but I find it a somewhat sad book.

The Mugwumps come across to me as men who urged the adoption of Christian morality in public life, but without basing it on the power of a Christian foundation.

Mugwumps: public moralists of the ... - Google Books

What to Be Thankful For | David Boaz | Cato Institute: Daily Commentary

"A Kenyan boy who managed to get to the United States told a reporter for Woman's World magazine that America is "heaven." Compared to countries that lack the rule of law, equality, property rights, free markets, and freedom of speech and worship, it certainly is. A good point to keep in mind this Thanksgiving Day." David Boaz

What to Be Thankful For | David Boaz | Cato Institute: Daily Commentary

Employer Parking Lots and Firearms - A Poll -- A Keyboard and a .45

Important debate.

Let's start by pointing out that the responsible, law-abiding employees are the only ones who comply with company policies against having firearms locked in their vehicles in the company parking lot in the first place.

I hate to see government get involved in this.

It is unfortunate that there are employers who would penalize their law-abiding employees who wish to assume full responsibility provide for their own self-protection while in transit between home and work, and at all stops in between.

The companies certainly don't provide any protection for these employees during the commuting phase of each workday, and yet they think it's moral to deny the employee to provide for it himself.

If this is to be resolved legislatively, it must include the component that absolves the employer of any responsibility for any criminal incident which might involve one of these firearms locked in a vehicle in their parking lot.

A Keyboard and a .45: Employer Parking Lots and Firearms - A Poll

Triggers for Civil Disobedience | Political Class Dismissed

Where would you draw the line?

Triggers for Civil Disobedience | Political Class Dismissed

Repeal Day Serves as Reminder of the Folly of Our Drug Laws - Opinion - FOXNews.com

"The prestige of government has undoubtedly been lowered considerably by the prohibition law ... For nothing is more destructive of respect for the government and the law of the land than passing laws which cannot be enforced." -- Einstein on U.S. alcohol Prohibition.

Repeal Day Serves as Reminder of the Folly of Our Drug Laws - Opinion - FOXNews.com

EDITORIAL: End Clinton-era military base gun ban - Washington Times

Great article on the foolishness of gun-free victim-disarmament zones, especially on military bases.

EDITORIAL: End Clinton-era military base gun ban - Washington Times

- Flu Shots and Freedom

Lots of good information here more general than just the question of whether people should be forced to accept flu shots.

Flu Shots and Freedom

The Winds of Change Die Down by Justin Raimondo -- Antiwar.com

We can have an empire, or we can have our old republic back. We cannot have both. -- Justin Raimondo

The Winds of Change Die Down by Justin Raimondo -- Antiwar.com

A few quotes to ponder this Friday | The Real Revo

Some great quotations on government, liberty, and tyranny.

A few quotes to ponder this Friday | The Real Revo

The GOP, a Revolutionary Party Once Again -- Sultan Knish

Good commentary on the state of the GOP.

"We have had enough of responsible Republican leaders carefully maintaining the prison walls that the Democrats have erected and continue to erect around us. What we need are leaders who will tear them down."

Sultan Knish

Why FIJA Activism is Important » no third solution » Blog Archive

Good argument for fully-informed jurors.

no third solution » Blog Archive » Why FIJA Activism is Important

Can the Rampaging Leviathan Be Stopped or Slowed? | The Beacon

Sobering commentary for lovers of liberty on the realities of the U.S. political landscape.

Can the Rampaging Leviathan Be Stopped or Slowed? | The Beacon

Texan police officer Kim Munley who shot Fort Hood gunman hailed as a heroine - Times Online

Just heard on Twitter about the woman who stopped the Fort Hood shooter.

Texan police officer Kim Munley who shot Fort Hood gunman hailed as a heroine - Times Online

Campaign For Liberty — Marriage License & Registration, Please | by Steve Bierfeldt

Thoughtful arguments for separation of marriage and state.

Campaign For Liberty — Marriage License & Registration, Please   | by Steve Bierfeldt

A Gun-Free Zone at Ft. Hood by Jacob G. Hornberger

"Why do shooters select gun-free zones to commit their massacres rather than, say, gun shows? No doubt that question continues to befuddle the gun-control crowd."

A Gun-Free Zone at Ft. Hood by Jacob G. Hornberger

On Getting Mugged -- The Arizona Rifleman » Blog Archive

One more example of a gun defusing an ugly situation without needing to be fired (usually the case).

The Arizona Rifleman » Blog Archive » On Getting Mugged

Concealed carry and property rights are compatible

"You are also assuming responsibility for the safety of your guests or customers if you forbid self-defense. If you fail, you are almost as guilty as the attacker."

Concealed carry and property rights are compatible

Book Review - Isabel Paterson and the Idea of America

Nice review of a book I am reading and enjoying.

Book Review - Isabel Paterson and the Idea of America

Halfway back to normal sunrise time in Indiana

The end of 7.8 months of DST today gets Indiana halfway back to a normal sunrise time.

Asking our state legislators and governor to petition the United States Department of Transportation to put Indiana back in the central time zone again would finish the job.

The table below compares sunrise time today in Indianapolis with other United States cities located in their geographically-correct time zone.

Sunrise times on 1 November 2009

7:14, Indianapolis (eastern time)
6:30, Philadelphia (middle of eastern time zone)
6:28, St. Louis (middle of central time zone)
6:26, New York City
6:23, Chicago
6:18, Boston
6:14, Indianapolis (if returned back to central time)
6:14, Bangor, Maine
6:10, Nashville TN
6:04, Las Vegas

Ref: http://www.usno.navy.mil/USNO/astronomical-applications/data-services/rs-one-year-us/

How much extra evening daylight per year?

Some in Indiana who favor staying on eastern time are concerned that there would be no benefit from daylight saving time if Indiana were on central time instead.

This is not the case at all.

Currently, in Indianapolis, during the 238 days (7.8 months) per year of DST, there are about 105 minutes per day of daylight shifted from the morning to the evening. During the remaining 127 days (4.2 months) of "standard" time, there are still 45 minutes per day of daylight shifted from morning to evening.

Over the course of a year, Indianapolis "enjoys" an average of 84 minutes per day of daylight shifted from morning to evening.

How does this stack up with other locations around the country?

[Compared with other United States cities located in their geographically-correct time zone], there are virtually no other locations in the country that have as much morning daylight shifted to the evening as Indianapolis on eastern time.

Average minutes per day shifted from morning to evening

84, Indianapolis (eastern time)
40, Philadelphia (middle of eastern time zone)
40, St. Louis (middle of central time zone)
35, New York City
30, Chicago
26, Nashville TN
24, Indianapolis (if returned to central time)
23, Boston
20, Las Vegas
14, Bangor, Maine

{ Fri, 6 Nov 2009, 12:30 pm EST, slight addition for accuracy, see "[]" above }

Time to rethink Daylight Saving Time?

Is it time to rethink the wisdom of Daylight Saving Time -- especially observing it for 7.8 months as we do now in the United States?

I think so.

The following 2008 study at University of California, Santa Barbara found:

"Our main finding is that — contrary to the policy's intent — DST increases residential electricity demand."

Back during World War II, when the main residential usage for electricity was lighting, there may have been a bit of an argument for DST.

Now that the use of electricity for heating and air conditioning outweighs that for lighting in the typical U.S. residence, DST has become more of a two-times-per-year annoyance, and is actually more likely "anti-green" (for those who care about such things).

Adding insult to injury, the typical home in 2009 is likely to have a few more timekeeping devices that need attention than did the typical home of the 1940s. E.g., PDA, answering machine, stove, microwave, vehicles, water softener.

NBER WORKING PAPER SERIES DOES DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME SAVE ENERGY? EVIDENCE FROM A NATURAL EXPERIMENT IN INDIANA

Congressman Ron Paul - Anything Less Than Full Disclosure is Unacceptable - Texas Straight Talk

Any select group of people, no matter how wise and educated, simply cannot replace the wisdom of the market. We need to know who the Fed deals with, what they buy, how much they spend, and who benefits. -- Ron Paul

Congressman Ron Paul - Anything Less Than Full Disclosure is Unacceptable - Texas Straight Talk

- Obama Seeks to Silence Free Speech Through Blasphemy Laws

Freedom of thought and freedom of expression are fundamental human rights — and a key element of this freedom is the ability to say that you believe that someone else’s position is wrong. The advocates of blasphemy laws wish to restrict this freedom to themselves alone: they would sit above all of us, dictating what may be said and thought on the most fundamental questions which confront us as human beings. No greater tyranny is imaginable than to seek to compel another man’s conscience through coercion of law. -- Rt. Rev. James Heiser

- Obama Seeks to Silence Free Speech Through Blasphemy Laws

CEO of ING Insurance to Woods: Who Cares about Austria's economy? - Stephan Kinsella - Mises Economics Blog

Funny story for anyone else like me who is into Austrian economics.

CEO of ING Insurance to Woods: Who Cares about Austria's economy? - Stephan Kinsella - Mises Economics Blog

The Edwards Threat -- The Weekly Standard -- Nov 2007

Some prescient thoughts on presidential power and health care, just as applicable to Obama as they were to Edwards.

The Weekly Standard

Dangerous Censorship From the Left - FOXNews.com

In the end, if the left has its way, and all criticism of Obama is boycotted, forbidden, or categorized as racist, America will have indeed become exactly what the Tea Party attendees and town hall protesters have been cautioning: a socialist nation with a totalitarian dictator whose policies can’t be questioned in public. -- Noel Sheppard

Dangerous Censorship From the Left - FOXNews.com

Gun Control: Schemed by Tyrants, Supported by Fools by Michael Gaddy

Those who advocate gun control as a means of enslaving the people will never be influenced by an intellectual argument, presentation of facts and figures, or a simple plea to do that which is right... Don’t waste your time, money or efforts on "educating" those who believe in gun control. This criminal government is doing it much better than we ever could. -- Michael Gaddy

Gun Control: Schemed by Tyrants, Supported by Fools by Michael Gaddy

OUR VIEW: A score for medical pot | federal, marijuana, medical - Opinion - Colorado Springs Gazette, CO

"Imagine how free some states would become if federal authorities respected all state laws, including those protecting gun and property rights." (Interesting that my newspaper decided to omit this paragraph.)

"The administration’s memo is a step in the direction of ending prohibition. It’s a small step, but first steps are milestones."

OUR VIEW: A score for medical pot | federal, marijuana, medical - Opinion - Colorado Springs Gazette, CO

He's high on U.S. pot-policy reversal

A voice of common sense on unwarranted intrusion by government into the private lives of the citizens whose rights this very government was instituted to help secure.

He's high on U.S. pot-policy reversal

Lecturing the New York Times on Libertarianism by Jacob G. Hornberger

Excellent little tutorial on libertarianism.

"Libertarians simply believe people shouldn’t be punished by the state for making what some consider is the wrong choice. Libertarians might disagree with the peaceful choices you make in life, but we will defend your right to make them."

Lecturing the New York Times on Libertarianism by Jacob G. Hornberger

Professional Anti-Anti-Semitism And Anti-Racism

"Wielding the fearsome brand of "Anti-Semite" as a powerful weapon, the professional Anti-Anti-Semite is able, in this day and age, to wound and destroy anyone he disagrees with by implanting this label indelibly in the public mind." Rothbard, 1990

Rothbard's words might just as well be applied to the professional Anti-Racists of 2009.

PAT BUCHANAN AND THE MENACE ANTI-ANTI-SEMITISM

Words Speak Louder Than Actions

"If people can be rewarded merely for what they plan to do, then maybe they should just give all presidents a Nobel Peace Prize."

Words Speak Louder Than Actions

Congressman Ron Paul - Bombs and Bribes - Texas Straight Talk

Foreign policy wisdom from Ron Paul.

"Without much humility or regard for human life, our foreign policy has been reduced to alternately bribing and bombing other nations, all with the stated goal of “promoting democracy”. This policy of endless intervention in the affairs of others is very damaging to American liberty and security. If our government really wanted to promote freedom, Americans would be free to travel and trade with whoever they wished. It is our bombs and sanctions and condescending aid packages that isolate us."

Congressman Ron Paul - Bombs and Bribes - Texas Straight Talk

Plymouth, PA Cops Assault Me and Terrorize My Toddler Son Right Outside My Home | George Donnelly

"A citizen’s alarm or concern does not alone negatively impact the rights of a person lawfully carrying a firearm."

Plymouth, PA Cops Assault Me and Terrorize My Toddler Son Right Outside My Home | George Donnelly

Central time makes sense for Indiana » Evansville Courier & Press

I agree. Central time makes sense for all of Indiana.

Central time makes sense for Indiana » Evansville Courier & Press

What the politicians promise, HSAs deliver :: Liberty Maven

"This doctor was willing to order the test when he thought someone other than the patient would pay for it."

What the politicians promise, HSAs deliver :: Liberty Maven

CARPE DIEM: Profit Margin: Health Insurance Industry Ranks #86

Profit margins for health insurance industry rank 86th among American business sectors.

CARPE DIEM: Profit Margin: Health Insurance Industry Ranks #86

The Federal Pledge | 10-4: The Tenth Amendment Center Pledge

This looks great. Will be asking legislators and candidates in my area if they will take this pledge.

The Federal Pledge  | 10-4: The Tenth Amendment Center Pledge

A Tale of Two Shortages - Doug French - Mises Institute

Venezuelan coffee and United States health care -- unfortunate parallels.

A Tale of Two Shortages - Doug French - Mises Institute

What ‘right’ to health care? - The Boston Globe

"Happily, there is no better system for achieving the widest possible access to health care - or any other good or service - than the one that requires the least degree of political interference: the normal interplay of supply, demand, and competition. Health care is too important to be left to the market? No, it is too important not to be."

What ‘right’ to health care? - The Boston Globe

ObamaCare: Status Quo on Steroids | Foundation for Economic Education

Excellent explanation of how companies and governments got involved in health care and insurance, and why it would be better for the consumer (but worse for the insurance companies) to get them out.

ObamaCare: Status Quo on Steroids | Foundation for Economic Education

Obama Attacks Tire Buyers « LewRockwell.com Blog

Silly government. Tariffs steal from the consumer to shelter the protected domestic industry from competition.

Obama Attacks Tire Buyers « LewRockwell.com Blog

Municipalized Trash: It's Uncivilized - Jeffrey A. Tucker - Mises Institute

Excellent arguments for separation of trash pickup and State.

Columbus, Indiana: Anybody listening?

Municipalized Trash: It's Uncivilized - Jeffrey A. Tucker - Mises Institute

Scratching By: How Government Creates Poverty as We Know It | The Freeman | Ideas On Liberty

Excellent analysis of the ways supposed well-meaning government policies lock people into poverty.

Scratching By: How Government Creates Poverty as We Know It | The Freeman | Ideas On Liberty

The Worst Economics Article Ever? - Robert P. Murphy - Mises Institute

Some common-sense arguments from Robert Murphy against the "eating local" hype.

The Worst Economics Article Ever? - Robert P. Murphy - Mises Institute

Anti-Big-Government DC Demonstration Draws Huge Crowd: “Don’t Tread on Me” | The Beacon

People are getting fed-up with out-of-control big government.

Anti-Big-Government DC Demonstration Draws Huge Crowd: “Don’t Tread on Me” | The Beacon

Is Obama's Speech Indoctrination? by Jacob G. Hornberger

I like Jacob Hornberger's take on the president's speech to children in government schools.

"Is counter-indoctrination the solution? No. The solution is a separation of school and state, an end to all governmental involvement in education. Don’t count on President Obama to share that idea in his speech to the public-school children of America."

Is Obama's Speech Indoctrination? by Jacob G. HornbergerI

The Intellectual Paralysis of Statists by Jacob G. Hornberger

Hornberger nails it. "Having grown accustomed to “debating” which form of statism Americans should embrace, the statists simply lack the competence and expertise to defend their statism against the free-market arguments presented by libertarians, both at the moral level and the practical level."

The Intellectual Paralysis of Statists by Jacob G. Hornberger

The Intellectual Paralysis of Statists by Jacob G. Hornberger

I agree.

"The problem we face in our day is not only economic and political in nature but also psychological in nature. To get our nation back on the right track, we libertarians have the task of not only showing people that economic liberty and free markets are moral and that they work, we must also inspire people to restore their faith in themselves, in others, in freedom, in free markets, and in God."

The Intellectual Paralysis of Statists by Jacob G. Hornberger

Daniel Griswold: Main Street should embrace globalization | Washington Examiner

Imposing steep tariffs on imports would punish millions of American consumers through higher prices.

Daniel Griswold: Main Street should embrace globalization | Washington Examiner

Whose children are they? | Christine Smith's Blog

"The controversies will come and go… until the real problem, government provided education, is widely exposed, challenged and abolished."

Whose children are they? | Christine Smith's Blog

How 9/11 Should Be Remembered by Tom Engelhardt -- Antiwar.com

Good perspective on 11 September 2001.

How 9/11 Should Be Remembered by Tom Engelhardt -- Antiwar.com

Six Theses of Libertarian Rhetoric

Good food for thought for libertarians, liberals, and conservatives.

Six Theses of Libertarian Rhetoric

74 Years Ago, Henry Ford Predicted Hemp Cars Powered by Biofuels « HempNews

Too bad our economy is hamstrung by the prejudice against hemp products.

74 Years Ago, Henry Ford Predicted Hemp Cars Powered by Biofuels « HempNews

A Politically Incorrect Guide to Antitrust Policy - D.T. Armentano - Mises Institute

Dr. Dominick T. Armentano hits the nail on the head. "Antitrust theory and history are both a myth and a hoax. The laws were never intended to help consumers... and their long historical track record is that they have not helped consumers. They have, instead, punished innovative and efficient business organizations while protecting less efficient competitors and every state-sanctioned monopoly. They have tended to make consumers poorer and the overall economy less efficient and they deserve to be repealed, not reformed."

A Politically Incorrect Guide to Antitrust Policy - D.T. Armentano - Mises Institute

Watch Out Google, Obama’s Antitrust Chief Is Looking To Make An Example Out Of You

Erick Schonfeld gets it right. The market will always do a better job undermining monopolies than the Justice Dept will.

Watch Out Google, Obama’s Antitrust Chief Is Looking To Make An Example Out Of You

The only kind of monopoly to be feared is one imposed with the help of government favoritism and other sorts of interference in the free market, or operated by the government itself (e.g., U.S. Postal Service).

A Politically Incorrect Guide to Antitrust Policy - D.T. Armentano - Mises Institute

The war on drugs has failed. Now we need a more humane strategy | Comment is free | The Observer

Ex-president of Brazil, Fernando Henrique Cardoso, writes, "Repressive policies towards drug users are firmly rooted in prejudice, fear and ideological visions, rather than in cold and hard assessment of the realities of drug abuse."

The war on drugs has failed. Now we need a more humane strategy | Comment is free | The Observer

Prohibition's failed. Time for a new drugs policy | Editorial | Comment is free | The Observer

Good recommendation.

"The entire framework of the debate must change. In Britain, we operate with laws that start from the premise that drug use is inherently morally wrong, and then seek ways to stop it. Instead we must start by evaluating the harm that drug use does, and then look for the best ways to alleviate it; and we must have the courage to follow that logic wherever it leads."

Prohibition's failed. Time for a new drugs policy | Editorial | Comment is free | The Observer

Unfair, unbalanced, but free - Washington Times

Jacob Sullum writes, "The government cannot create a pure, balanced, undistorted political debate; all it can do is introduce new distortions. And as bad as distortions caused by wealth (or visibility or good looks or charisma) might seem, distortions imposed by force are worse, which is why the Constitution forbids them."

Unfair, unbalanced, but free - Washington Times

U.S. health care costs too high? Compared to what?

I just got an e-mail from Indiana's junior U.S. senator, Evan Bayh. He was replying to an e-mail I sent him recommending that we return to more of a free-market in health care to reduce cost and increase quality and availability.

Senator Bayh wrote me, "A growing threat to our economy is the skyrocketing cost of health care. The U.S. system is the world's costliest; the country spends some $2.4 trillion a year on health care."

That is a hard number to put in perspective, so I did a little math on it. A Google search tells me that the U.S. population is about 304,059,724 (as of July 2008). Dividing this figure into $2.4 trillion, it works out that the average annual health care cost per person is just under $8,000. Of course a lot of that is hidden in the money that employers pay to provide health care insurance for their employees.

Meanwhile, I see here that the average annual cost to send one student per year to Washington DC government (i.e., public) schools is $24,600.

The Real Cost of Public Schools | Cato @ Liberty

Why is $8,000 per person for health care such a national emergency, but exorbitant costs for public / government schools are apparently not so much?

This article also points out that the cost for the government option in education is about 68 percent higher than the cost of private education.

Is the same sort of surcharge the politicians are proposing that we pay for a "public" health care option?

Group making push for Ind. switch to Central time -- chicagotribune.com

I'd like to see Indiana all back on central time. The natural boundary between eastern and central runs north-south through the middle of Ohio. Wonder who ever thought it was a good idea to split Indiana into two zones in the first place. Indiana was entirely in the central zone until early 1960s.

Group making push for Ind. switch to Central time -- chicagotribune.com

Who Won World War II? by Jacob G. Hornberger

"Being saved from Hitler and the Nazis only to be turned over to Stalin and the communists was no victory, at least insofar as the Poles were concerned."

Who Won World War II? by Jacob G. Hornberger

Arizona dust-up demonstrates why campaign finance rules threaten free speech

I agree with J.D. Tuccille.

Regulating speech to guarantee "clean elections" is nothing more than censorship to muzzle non-politicians. No matter the supposed risks of respecting free speech, regulating political speech is enormously dangerous.

Arizona dust-up demonstrates why campaign finance rules threaten free speech

EDITORIAL: False reports about guns - Washington Times

"MSNBC misrepresented a black man carrying a gun as a white man to invent a racial dynamic that didn't exist."

EDITORIAL: False reports about guns - Washington Times

Generation Sloth - Jeffrey A. Tucker - Mises Institute

Good article on the unintended consequences of government interference with the free-market pricing for labor.

Generation Sloth - Jeffrey A. Tucker - Mises Institute

John Stossel : Clunker Legislation - Townhall.com

Stossel is right.

"Finally, there is something revolting about the government subsidizing the destruction of useful things. It reminds me of the New Deal policy of killing piglets and pouring milk down sewers to keep food prices from falling. Leave it to politicians to think we can prosper by obliterating wealth."

John Stossel : Clunker Legislation - Townhall.com

Campaign For Liberty — Publik Edumacation Яefermation | by Jerry Salcido

Excellent and thought-provoking article on the moral problem with government-run education that is based on force and coercive funding.

Campaign For Liberty — Publik Edumacation Яefermation   | by Jerry Salcido

Campaign For Liberty — The Fed on the Defensive | by Gary North

"The FED has never had to play defense. It has had a free ride. The free ride is over. The general public has still not heard of the FED. The FED still has the advantage of invisibility. But it is losing that invisibility."

Campaign For Liberty — The Fed on the Defensive   | by Gary North

‘Baron’ is merely your *name*, Rep. Hill (D, IN-09). - Moe_Lane’s blog - RedState

Great reminder to another politician of who works for who.

‘Baron’ is merely your *name*, Rep. Hill (D, IN-09). - Moe_Lane’s blog - RedState

The Post & Mail - Group pushes for Central Time Zone

I'd certainly be in favor of Central Time for Indiana.

Shifting 45 minutes of daylight from morning to evening in the DST months, as Central Daylight Time would do, has always seemed a whole lot more reasonable to me than the 1 hour 45 minutes we get from Eastern Daylight Time in Indiana.

The Post & Mail - Group pushes for Central Time Zone

Circumcision for All; Free Choice for None by Stephanie R. Murphy

"To be perfectly blunt, I do not see any justification for removing a part of a baby boy’s body without his consent."

I agree.

Circumcision for All; Free Choice for None by Stephanie R. Murphy

A Need for Some Soul-Searching by Jacob G. Hornberger

Great article by Jacob Hornberger. He reminds us:

"The political and economic solution to America’s woes lies in abandoning socialism and imperialism and restoring a free-market, limited-government republic to our land. More fundamentally, however, the solution involves a restoration within the American people of faith in themselves, in others, in freedom, and in God."

A Need for Some Soul-Searching by Jacob G. Hornberger

Selling Short the Short-Seller by Gregory Bresiger

Good little lesson on short-selling.

He does not point out explicitly that short-selling helps to warn would-be investors of risky companies. Short-selling provides non-governmental regulation of the investment market.

Selling Short the Short-Seller by Gregory Bresiger

We don't want to rule the world | Mark Weisbrot | Comment is free | guardian.co.uk

"It is not that the American people are so backward and ignorant, or bellicose. Rather the main problem is that the public has so little input into foreign policy decisions. That is what must change if we are to get away from the prospect of never-ending wars and conflicts, and from a foreign policy that continues to be one of the greatest obstacles to social and economic progress in the world."

We don't want to rule the world | Mark Weisbrot | Comment is free | guardian.co.uk

Religious Roots of Liberty - Rev. Edmund A. Opitz - Mises Institute

Good discussion of the relationship between religious belief and political/economic liberty.

Similar to Rose Wilder Lane's thesis in "Discovery of Freedom".

Religious Roots of Liberty - Rev. Edmund A. Opitz - Mises Institute: "Ludwig"

What Ted Kennedy Never Learned by Sheldon Richman

An open-eyed look at the Kennedy legacy and blindness.

What Ted Kennedy Never Learned by Sheldon Richman

Free the Drug Users and Tax Resisters Too by Jacob G. Hornberger

Good questions about the proportionality of the offense and the consequences for torturers, drug users, and tax resisters.

Free the Drug Users and Tax Resisters Too by Jacob G. Hornberger

Campaign For Liberty — What Is This "Free Market" We Keep Hearing About? Part II | by Tom Mullen

Great rebuttal of some free market fallacies and misconceptions.

Campaign For Liberty — What Is This "Free Market" We Keep Hearing About? Part II   | by Tom Mullen

EDITORIAL: Government thuggishness - Washington Times

"Thuggish behavior by politicians is a valid reason not to give them even more power over people's lives."

EDITORIAL: Government thuggishness - Washington Times

Get Out of Afghanistan and Everywhere Else by Jacob G. Hornberger

Good arguments for ending U.S. empire now.

Get Out of Afghanistan and Everywhere Else by Jacob G. Hornberger

The Evil-Mongering Of The American Medical Association - Forbes.com

Shikha Dalmia: If the president is serious about lowering health care costs instead of advancing an ideologically driven government takeover of the industry, he should be doing everything in his power to disband the American Medical Association -- not cozy up to it.

The Evil-Mongering Of The American Medical Association - Forbes.com

Free Association: Oh the Injustice!

Sheldon Richman points out the follow of railing against pre-existing condition exclusions in health insurance.

"When will we finally get homeowner's insurance reform so that companies will stop this cruel practice of refusing to cover preexisting conditions?"

Free Association: Oh the Injustice!

Why Conservatives and Liberals Dislike Libertarians by Jacob G. Hornberger

Hornberger writes, "Is there a bright light in all this? You bet there is! That light is libertarianism, one of the grandest and most glorious movements in history. Libertarianism is the political philosophy that rejects socialism, interventionism, and imperialism and aims to restore America’s heritage of economic liberty, free markets, sound money, and a limited-government republic. Libertarianism aims to protect Americans from the statism of both the Left and the Right. Is it any wonder why conservatives and liberals dislike libertarians?"

Why Conservatives and Liberals Dislike Libertarians by Jacob G. Hornberger

Soldiers Who Just Say No by Jon Letman -- Antiwar.com

Good article on some of the hidden costs of war.

Soldiers Who Just Say No by Jon Letman -- Antiwar.com

He Had a Gun and Nothing Happened - lincolncountyrecord.com

Larry Pratt reminds us. "One would think that consistently being wrong would be embarrassing, but one would be wrong about those who assume that common citizens are untrustworthy and dangerous. A tip of the hat to those who have stirred the debate. And, our thanks to them for exercising proper gun control and reminding us of how homeland security should be conducted."

He Had a Gun and Nothing Happened - lincolncountyrecord.com

CNSNews.com - Americans Had to Work from January 1 to August 12 This Year Just to Cover Cost of Government

Incredible and very sad. Get mad!

"In 2009, the cost of government will consume 61.34 percent of national income."

CNSNews.com - Americans Had to Work from January 1 to August 12 This Year Just to Cover Cost of Government

Paul Craig Roberts: Americans: Serfs Ruled by Oligarchs

Good article. Mr. Roberts asks, "Will Americans realize that they are not ruled by elected representatives but by an oligarchy that owns the Washington whorehouse? Will Americans ever understand that they are impotent serfs?"

Paul Craig Roberts: Americans: Serfs Ruled by Oligarchs

John Mackey: The Whole Foods Alternative to ObamaCare - WSJ.com

Great healthcare recommendations from a man in the trenches.

John Mackey: The Whole Foods Alternative to ObamaCare - WSJ.com

Hope Is No Substitute for Theory by Sheldon Richman

Sheldon Richman hits the nail on the head.

"One hopes Obama succeeds in ushering in an era of freedom, peace, and prosperity. But hope is idle. He will have to discover sound economic theory and a reservoir of courage to make it happen."

Hope Is No Substitute for Theory by Sheldon Richman

Congressman Ron Paul - We Need Sunlight to Disinfect the Legislative Process! - Texas Straight Talk

Ron Paul's proposed Sunlight Rule ten-day waiting period for a vote for all federal legislation sounds like a great idea.

Congressman Ron Paul - We Need Sunlight to Disinfect the Legislative Process! - Texas Straight Talk

Is "Bambi" Libertarian?

Murray Rothbard wrote, "It is not the business of the law to make anyone good or reverent or moral or clean or upright."

Is "Bambi" Libertarian?

CIA Hired Blackwater for Assassinations

The power to create private assassination squads is exclusively delegated to Congress, not the President.

CIA Hired Blackwater for Assassinations

The Bogus Right to Health Care by Jacob G. Hornberger

Jacob Hornberger writes, "Once the free market builds up that large wealth base, however, the statists pop up with their programs calling for coercion and plunder. That, in turn, inevitably leads to a shrinking of the wealth base, thereby condemning people to increasingly lower standards of living in terms of such things as health care, education, food, transportation, and the like. At the root of it all is the statists’ warped view of rights."

The Bogus Right to Health Care by Jacob G. Hornberger

More Liberal Inanity on Guns by Jacob G. Hornberger

Well-written rebuttal to more anti-gun arguments.

More Liberal Inanity on Guns by Jacob G. Hornberger

George F. Will - Government Should Drop Its Ban on Online Poker - washingtonpost.com

I don't see any legitimate reason for a government "of the people" to ban those people from voluntarily engaging in online poker.

George F. Will - Government Should Drop Its Ban on Online Poker - washingtonpost.com

EDITORIAL: Obama misidentifies 'rationing' - Washington Times

I agree with the Times.

"There is no more rationing by private insurance companies than there is rationing at the grocery store. In a private system, consumers can buy more expensive health insurance plans if they want better benefits. Similarly, in a grocery store, if you want more food, you pay more money. There is no rationing in either case. Prices adjust until the amount people want is the amount that is provided... With people wanting more health care than government programs are going to provide, some government bureaucrat will step in to make decisions. That's when rationing takes place -- not in the private market."

EDITORIAL: Obama misidentifies 'rationing' - Washington Times

Campaign For Liberty — The Free Market as Regulator | by Ron Paul

Ron Paul is correct. "Bailouts allow giant corporations to run roughshod; the free market puts them out of business when they misbehave."

Campaign For Liberty — The Free Market as Regulator   | by Ron Paul

Banana Republics by Doug Bandow -- The National Interest

I heartily agree. "Why should officials in Washington attempt to substitute their judgment for that of people in Honduras?"

The National Interest

Daniel Oliver: Fighting obesity is best left to the individual | Washington Examiner

Very practical discussion of the moral hazard of third-party and socialized medical care and health insurance.

Daniel Oliver: Fighting obesity is best left to the individual | Washington Examiner

The Overlooked Solution for Health Care | Foundation for Economic Education

Great arguments for a free market in medical care (which we do not have now in the U.S.).

"We will never achieve the medical system — indeed, the society — worthy of free people as long as we are trapped in the juvenile mindset that someone owes us medical care."

The Overlooked Solution for Health Care | Foundation for Economic Education

I’m the Government and I’m Here To Lie To You by Karen De Coster

Well said, Karen.

I’m the Government and I’m Here To Lie To You by Karen De Coster

What could go wrong?

Darrin Moore writes on Facebook, "Obama's health care plan will be written by a committee whose chairman says he doesn't understand it, passed by a Congress that hasn't read it and whose members will be exempt from it, signed by a president who is a closet smoker, funded by a treasury chief who did not pay his taxes, overseen by a surgeon general who is obese, and financed by a country that is nearly broke. What could possibly go wrong?"

Well said, Darrin.

The coming-out stories of anonymous bloggers - CNN.com

Some interesting stories about formerly-anonymous bloggers whose identities were voluntarily or involuntarily revealed.

The coming-out stories of anonymous bloggers - CNN.com

Obama and the Post Office by Llewellyn H. Rockwell, Jr.

I agree with Lew Rockwell. "The right path to health-care reform is the market path (no subsidies, no monopolies such as drug patents, no licensure, no anything) that tends toward universal distribution at very low prices and relentless improvement in service. The wrong path is to make health care run the same way as the post office."

Obama and the Post Office by Llewellyn H. Rockwell, Jr.

How Can the Fed Prevent Asset Bubbles? - Frank Shostak - Mises Institute

"The best way to prevent the emergence of asset bubbles is to stop the Fed from pushing massive amounts of money to the economy."

How Can the Fed Prevent Asset Bubbles? - Frank Shostak - Mises Institute

Inhumanity of the Minimum Wage - Paul Poirot - Mises Institute

Excellent explanation of the evils of a minimum wage by Paul Poirot.

"Those who have most clearly proved their productive capacity are rewarded accordingly through the voluntary acts of their fellow men in the market place. This is the signal to produce even more, and it is the incentive which attracts other men to lead more useful and productive lives. A compulsory minimum wage, at any level, can only add to the hazards of the jungle."

Inhumanity of the Minimum Wage - Paul Poirot - Mises Institute

You Can Trust a Liberal … to Be a Liberal by Jacob G. Hornberger

Jacob Hornberger writes, "With the increasing crises and chaos that their statist policies are producing, the statists are getting increasingly frightened and desperate. That’s undoubtedly why they’re going on the attack against us libertarians. Not surprisingly, however, they won’t take us on in direct debate because they know that they will wilt under the relentless logic of libertarian arguments, as Matthews himself did by the end of the Kostric interview. That’s why they resort to their old tired tactic of insults, insinuations, and innuendo. That’s not a bad sign. It’s a good one."

You Can Trust a Liberal … to Be a Liberal by Jacob G. Hornberger

Chris Matthews Unloads On Protester Who Carried Gun To Obama Event

The more I see of Kostric the more I like him.

William Kostric is the peaceful protestor who open-carried a gun to an Obama healthcare event in New Hampshire. Kostric is affiliated with the Free State Project.

Introduction to the Free State Project [ Free State Project - Liberty in Our Lifetime ]

Kostric's sign said "It's time to water the tree of liberty."

To fans of political and economic liberty, this is an obvious reference to the words of Thomas Jefferson, "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants."

Kostric, although obviously not a polished speaker, acquits himself well against Chris Matthews in this eight-minute interview on MSNBC.

Matthews is an aggressive interviewer who makes no bones about his hostile bias toward Kostric.

My favorite segment of the interview so far, from about 3:45 to 4:20, is where Kostric deftly steers a Matthews question into a nice sound bite about the socialistic policies of the Massachusetts state government.

Matthews: I'm talking about people who bring guns to presidential events...

Kostric: I'll tell you this Chris. We just started new history... a peaceful rally... No on one our side was alarmed... the people of New Hampshire are used to seeing firearms... Maybe some of the people they bused in from Massachusetts were alarmed...

Matthews: What is wrong with the people from Massachusetts?

Kostric: They already have their healthcare scheme and their socialism going in their state; they should probably keep it over there.

YouTube - Chris Matthews Unloads On Protester Who Carried Gun To Obama Event

Junk Food, Taxes, and the Market Solution - Sascha Baghestanian - Mises Institute

Interesting perspective on junk food and insurance.

Junk Food, Taxes, and the Market Solution - Sascha Baghestanian - Mises Institute

Older Americans Can Lead Us Out of Socialism by Jacob G. Hornberger

I agree with Jacob Hornberger. "God has created a consistent universe, one in which freedom and the free market work, while socialism doesn’t."

Older Americans Can Lead Us Out of Socialism by Jacob G. Hornberger

I Respect a Socialist by Jacob G. Hornberger

Jacob Hornberger writes:

In essence, here is what both liberals and conservatives are saying: “We oppose socialism and believe in free enterprise and limited government … except for Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, public schooling, the drug war, economic regulations, trade restrictions, immigration controls, occupational licensure, welfare, subsidies, government-business partnerships, public housing, SBA loans, the FDA, the SEC, the minimum wage, price controls, the Federal Reserve, paper money, and all the various departments and agencies of the federal government.

How can anyone have any respect for that?

I Respect a Socialist by Jacob G. Hornberger

A Four-Step Healthcare Solution - Hans-Hermann Hoppe - Mises Institute

Hans-Hermann Hoppe's healthcare recommendations looks just as timely in 2009 as they were in 1993, if not more so.

1. Eliminate all licensing requirements for medical schools, hospitals, pharmacies, and medical doctors and other health-care personnel.

2. Eliminate all government restrictions on the production and sale of pharmaceutical products and medical devices.

3. Deregulate the health-insurance industry.

4. Eliminate all subsidies to the sick or unhealthy.

A Four-Step Healthcare Solution - Hans-Hermann Hoppe - Mises Institute

The American Vision » Obama’s Post Office Gaffe: More True than You Can Imagine

Government will not allow competition in something so simple a letter-delivery, despite its failures.

The American Vision » Obama’s Post Office Gaffe: More True than You Can Imagine

Campaign For Liberty — An Antiwar Effort Only the Right Can Lead | by John Walsh

I hope John Walsh is correct. "The Right has a world to win, if it might be put that way, or at least an empire to terminate."

Campaign For Liberty — An Antiwar Effort Only the Right Can Lead   | by John Walsh

Protester William Kostnic at Obama healthcare town hall in New Hampshire carried 9mm pistol - legally | World news | guardian.co.uk

The chief of police had told him: "The law allows this man to be here."

Nice to see someone in law enforcement who knows the rule of law trumps the opinion of the mob.

Protester William Kostnic at Obama healthcare town hall in New Hampshire carried 9mm pistol - legally | World news | guardian.co.uk

The Spring is Silent on DDT - Llewellyn H. Rockwell, Jr. - Mises Institute

"The politics of the environmentalists are increasingly predictable and obvious. They oppose all forms of capitalistic innovation."

The Spring is Silent on DDT - Llewellyn H. Rockwell, Jr. - Mises Institute

Democracy in the Schoolroom - Fred DeArmond - Mises Institute

"The final indictment of education today is that it has produced a generation that is uncritical of easy panaceas and a ready prey to the demagogue."

No less true in 2009 than when printed in 1953.

Democracy in the Schoolroom - Fred DeArmond - Mises Institute

Bubble Economics: The Illusion of Wealth - Doug French - Mises Institute

Excellent analysis and illustrations of the deleterious effects of government-caused inflation on the economy.

Bubble Economics: The Illusion of Wealth - Doug French - Mises Institute

Kudlow's Cuckoo for Clunkers - Robert P. Murphy - Mises Institute

Excellent dissection of Republican economist Larry Kudlow's fallacious thinking on Cash for Clunkers.

Kudlow's Cuckoo for Clunkers - Robert P. Murphy - Mises Institute

Phony Originalism | Tenth Amendment Center

Kevin Gutzman confirms my concerns about the Constitutionality of Sen. Thune's Concealed Carry Amendment.

Phony Originalism | Tenth Amendment Center

Typing Errors: The standard typewriter keyboard is Exhibit A in the hottest new case against markets. But the evidence has been cooked. - Reason Magazine

Apparently the QWERTY versus Dvorak typewriter keyboard example is of such importance to many writers because it can so easily persuade people that an interventionist technology policy is necessary.

Typing Errors: The standard typewriter keyboard is Exhibit A in the hottest new case against markets. But the evidence has been cooked. - Reason Magazine

“Tax The Hell Out Of It.” Why? | Christine Smith's Blog

"Why should the most natural aspects of living be exploited by government bureaucrats… and why do so many Americans not care? Why do so many agree with government regulating people’s behavior? And how in the world can anyone be excited and in favor of more taxation?"

“Tax The Hell Out Of It.” Why? | Christine Smith's Blog

“Tax The Hell Out Of It.” Why? | Christine Smith's Blog

I agree with Christine Smith. "I’m not about to spend my time lobbying for something which is still oppressive."

“Tax The Hell Out Of It.” Why? | Christine Smith's Blog

Doomsday -- pros and cons - Washington Times

I agree. "America can no longer afford the astronomic costs of empire." (and probably never could)

Doomsday -- pros and cons - Washington Times

Amity Shlaes - Market Discipline: The Most Powerful Tool for Fair Executive Pay - washingtonpost.com

Good comparison between athlete and executive compensation.

Amity Shlaes - Market Discipline: The Most Powerful Tool for Fair Executive Pay - washingtonpost.com

Health plan is legalized stealing | thespectrum.com | The Spectrum

"A good way to test the soundness of any government proposal is to apply it at the individual level and see if it would still be acceptable."

Health plan is legalized stealing | thespectrum.com | The Spectrum

Bastiat on “Cash for Clunkers” | The Beacon

John Chapman writes, "Government spending cannot create wealth; it can at best redistribute it, often accompanied by waste."

Bastiat on “Cash for Clunkers” | The Beacon

'Uh-Oh They're Here' - washingtonpost.com

"It should not be a crime to annoy the cops, whose raid on Ms. Strom's house looks more like a fit of pique than an act of law enforcement."

'Uh-Oh They're Here' - washingtonpost.com

A Great Moment in Our History by Andrew P. Napolitano

Great speech by Judge Napolitano.

"This is that moment and you are that generation! Now is the time to defend our freedoms."

A Great Moment in Our History by Andrew P. Napolitano

Campaign For Liberty — What Is This “Free Market” We Keep Hearing About? | by Tom Mullen

I agree with Tom Mullen. "When we are confronted with gibberish about the failure of free markets and the need for government to "play a role in the economy," or for a "public-private partnership," let us not let ourselves be led into a carefully framed argument about what might provide more health care, produce more automobiles, or save more jobs. Let us recognize these arguments for what they are: a declaration of war upon our inalienable rights."

Campaign For Liberty — What Is This “Free Market” We Keep Hearing About?   | by Tom Mullen

Carolina Crown 2nd at world championship - CharlotteObserver.com

My nephew, Nick Starr, was on keyboard for this drum and bugle corps.

First year to place this high in 20-year history.

Carolina Crown 2nd at world championship - CharlotteObserver.com

Campaign For Liberty — Ukrainian Follies: Creating More Needless Defense Dependents | by Doug Bandow

I agree with Doug Casey. "NATO no longer advances U.S. security. Washington should turn Europe’s defense over to Europe."

Campaign For Liberty — Ukrainian Follies: Creating More Needless Defense Dependents   | by Doug Bandow

Stromata Blog: Bastiat Updated

I agree with Tom Veal. If it were this easy to spur economic growth, why shouldn’t the government offer money for the destruction of other goods?

Stromata Blog: Bastiat Updated

End the Fed? A not-so-crazy idea. | csmonitor.com

I agree. "Congressman Ron Paul's bill may never pass, but history suggests the US economy would be better off without the Federal Reserve."

End the Fed? A not-so-crazy idea. | csmonitor.com

Cash for Clunkers and the Poor « Acton Institute PowerBlog

I agree with Hunter Baker. In effect, Cash for Clunkers is a tax on the lower end of the market.

Cash for Clunkers and the Poor « Acton Institute PowerBlog

Crush for Clunkers - Henry Payne - Planet Gore on National Review Online

"SUVs, apparently, aren’t the only things being sacrificed at the green altar."

Crush for Clunkers - Henry Payne - Planet Gore on National Review Online

Rereading Our Enemy, the State - Cecil Palmer - Mises Institute

"Our Enemy, the State" should be in the hands, and in the minds, of the new and rising generation which is being so cleverly and so wickedly seduced by power-drunk State idolaters. It is a book which offers inspired guidance to those who have ventured off the known way, only to find themselves in a jungle of frustration and perplexity.

Rereading Our Enemy, the State - Cecil Palmer - Mises Institute

Free online copy of this book and others by Nock at the following page.

Albert Nock :: Mises Institute

How Not to Bring Broadband to All - Fernando Herrera-Gonzalez - Mises Institute

Why price controls don't work, with broadband internet access as an example.

How Not to Bring Broadband to All - Fernando Herrera-Gonzalez - Mises Institute

Hoover Institution - Hoover Digest - How to Cure Health Care

I agree with Milton Friedman's prescription for health care.

"The high cost and inequitable character of our medical care system are the direct result of our steady movement toward reliance on third-party payment. A cure requires reversing course, reprivatizing medical care by eliminating most third-party payment, and restoring the role of insurance to providing protection against major medical catastrophes. The ideal way to do that would be to reverse past actions: repeal the tax exemption of employer-provided medical care; terminate Medicare and Medicaid; deregulate most insurance; and restrict the role of the government, preferably state and local rather than federal, to financing care for the hard cases."

Hoover Institution - Hoover Digest - How to Cure Health Care

Congress in Fantasyland - Washington Times

Richard W. Rahn shows how the broken window fallacy applies to various government "stimulus" ideas.

Congress in Fantasyland - Washington Times

Cash for Clunkers Falls Flat - FOXNews.com

Excellent analysis, questions, and commentary on Cash for Clunkers.

Cash for Clunkers Falls Flat - FOXNews.com

Our view: 'Clunkers' program sputters - Opinion - USATODAY.com

I agree with USA Today editors. "From its outset cash for clunkers has been more about rewarding two politically powerful industries — automakers and auto dealers — than about promoting energy efficiency or juicing the economy."

Our view: 'Clunkers' program sputters - Opinion - USATODAY.com

Cash for Clunkers by David Dorn

Excellent commentary on the lunacy of "Cash for Clunkers".

Cash for Clunkers by David Dorn

How much is that clunker in the window? - Los Angeles Times

I agree with Jonah Goldberg. "Under the government's program, my tax dollars are being diverted to people with cheap cars so they can buy expensive ones. That's just really inefficient wealth distribution, not wealth creation. But government can see it, and that's all that counts."

How much is that clunker in the window? - Los Angeles Times

Archaic Word Meanings In King James Version of the Bible

Interesting list of archaic word meanings in the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible and how more modern translations make the meaning clearer.

Rapture - Archaic Word Meanings In KJV - hope this is helpful

Robin Hood Run Amok | Tenth Amendment Center

I agree with Ron Paul. "The fact that the national healthcare overhaul could force taxpayers to subsidize abortions and may even force private insurers to cover abortions is more reason that this bill and the ideas behind it, are neither constitutional, moral, nor in the American people’s best interest."

Robin Hood Run Amok | Tenth Amendment Center

The U.S. Government Is Not the USA by Jacob G. Hornberger

I agree with Jacob Hornberger. "Isn’t it the responsibility of an enlightened citizenry to criticize the wrongdoing of its own government, both foreign and domestic, with the aim of keeping it on the right course? Isn’t that what genuine patriotism is all about?"

The U.S. Government Is Not the USA by Jacob G. Hornberger

Cops and turning the other cheek - St. Petersburg Times

I agree with Robyn E. Blumner. "True freedom is the right to question authority, boisterously and even offensively, and yet be left alone. Living under a law that essentially punishes any conduct that a police officer doesn't like is no freedom at all."

Cops and turning the other cheek - St. Petersburg Times

Liberty and lip - Washington Times

I agree with Jacob Sullum. "A policy of zero tolerance for public slights may be appropriate for a gangster, but it's not appropriate for a peace officer charged with enforcing the law."

Liberty and lip - Washington Times

I Worked for the Government Today Without Pay by Robert Higgs

Mr. Higgs is certainly onto something here.

"That we Americans have resigned ourselves to living in such an environment and, in many cases, continue to refer to this police state as a free country speaks volumes about our ability to follow Winston Smith’s example, in George Orwell’s Nineteen Eighty-Four, of loving Big Brother."

I Worked for the Government Today Without Pay by Robert Higgs

Meet the Enemy - Butler Shaffer - Mises Institute

I like what I have read of Albert Jay Nock so far, but am still working my way through this book.

Meet the Enemy - Butler Shaffer - Mises Institute

Healthcare Plan Based on Economic Fantasy, by US Rep. Ron Paul | from Reason to Freedom

I heartily agree with Ron Paul. "The leadership in Washington persists in a fantasy world of unlimited money to spend on unlimited programs and wars to garner unlimited control. But there is a fast-approaching limit to our ability to borrow, steal, and print. Acknowledging this reality is not mean-spirited or cruel. On the contrary, it could be the only thing that saves us from complete and total economic meltdown."

Healthcare Plan Based on Economic Fantasy, by US Rep. Ron Paul | from Reason to Freedom

Okefenokee Swamp Pigs

Excellent analogy illustrating the subtle hazard of ever-increasing dependence on government.

Okefenokee Swamp Pigs

Spending Our Way to Wealth and Prosperity by Jacob G. Hornberger

I agree with Jacob Hornberger, "Contrary to exhortations from federal officials, the key to increases in wealth and to higher standards of living lies in savings, not spending. Americans would be wise to reject the spending/consumption paradigm and embrace the savings/capital paradigm."

Spending Our Way to Wealth and Prosperity by Jacob G. Hornberger

Campaign For Liberty — Modern Prohibition and Individual Liberty | by Howard Wooldridge

I agree with Howard Wooldridge. Modern Prohibition is completely incompatible with the principles of Individual liberty, personal responsibility, property rights, limited government, cost-effective government and States’ Rights.

Campaign For Liberty — Modern Prohibition and Individual Liberty   | by Howard Wooldridge

During this 'teaching moment,' learn about the First Amendment

Great analysis. "First Amendment expert Harvey Silverglate points out that police officers have the same right as the rest of us to be insulted -- and the same obligation to suck it up or walk away"

During this 'teaching moment,' learn about the First Amendment

Reason Foundation - The Myth Of Free Market Health Care In America

Shikha Dalmia writes, "The point is that there is no health care model, whether privately or publicly financed, that can offer unlimited access to medical services while containing costs... The only sustainable system that avoids this Hobson's choice is one that is based on a genuine free market in which there is some connection between what patients pay for coverage and the services they receive. That is emphatically not what America or any Western country has today."

Reason Foundation - The Myth Of Free Market Health Care In America

American Thinker Blog: Obama's revealing body language (updated and expanded))

Quite a photo.

American Thinker Blog: Obama's revealing body language (updated and expanded))

You, too, can be vilified as a heinous criminal

I agree.

"So the next time you see a brief news blurb about some "evil" offender who ran afoul of the law with seeming disregard for public safety, and who is publicly vilified in government press releases, keep in mind that there may be more to the story. You could well be looking at another Krister Evertson, who hurt nobody, intended no legal violation, and was tripped up by a maze of laws of the sort that you yourself may unknowingly violate every day."

You, too, can be vilified as a heinous criminal

Socialized Healthcare vs. The Laws of Economics - Thomas J. DiLorenzo - Mises Institute

Excellent outline of what we can expect in United States healthcare the further we go toward socialized medicine.

Socialized Healthcare vs. The Laws of Economics - Thomas J. DiLorenzo - Mises Institute

Right of Revolution -- New Hampshire constitution

Interesting clause in the Bill of Rights of the constitution of the state of New Hampshire.

[Art.] 10. [Right of Revolution.] Government being instituted for the common benefit, protection, and security, of the whole community, and not for the private interest or emolument of any one man, family, or class of men; therefore, whenever the ends of government are perverted, and public liberty manifestly endangered, and all other means of redress are ineffectual, the people may, and of right ought to reform the old, or establish a new government. The doctrine of nonresistance against arbitrary power, and oppression, is absurd, slavish, and destructive of the good and happiness of mankind.

NH.gov - The Official Web Site of New Hampshire State Government - State Constitution, Bill of Rights

My vision for U.S. healthcare reform

Here is my vision for U.S. healthcare reform.

Get the companies and governments out of the picture.

Have companies drop healthcare plans and put the savings into their employees paychecks.

Everyone pays healthcare providers directly out of pocket for all routine expenses, analogous to the way we pay for oil changes and tires for our cars out of pocket, rather than having those items covered by our vehicle insurance policy.

The only health insurance most people would carry would be for unexpected major medical expenses. The cost for this type of coverage should be relatively low, since there would be relatively few claims.

The result of these reforms would be higher quality care and lower costs, since the mindset would be one of free-market competition among providers, competing directly for the consumers' dollars.

Addendum Thu, 30 Jul 2009, 9:16 am EDT

Congress should equalize the tax benefit so the individual gets the same tax break for buying his own healthcare and health insurance directly that his employer is getting now to buy it for him.

This would result in minimal or no financial incentive to accept whatever healthcare option is offered through the employer versus what the individual could purchase directly on the free market.

This would help to put natural, non-governmental, free-market regulation back into play, helping drive down healthcare costs and drive up quality as providers and insurers compete directly for the individual's healthcare dollar, and individuals are free to shop directly for the best value between competing suppliers.

The Myth of the Level Playing Field by Samuel Bostaph

Why trying to "level the playing field" by government intervention is bad for consumers and bad for the economy.

The Myth of the Level Playing Field by Samuel Bostaph

REVOLT OF THE MISESIANS

Excellent little story about Guatemala and the threat that sound economic policy poses to the powers that be.

REVOLT OF THE MISESIANS

Why Do Conservatives Always Side With the Cops? | The Beacon

I agree with Anthony Gregory. So long as many consider rudeness to a cop to be an arrestable offense, we will never have our sweet land of liberty.

Why Do Conservatives Always Side With the Cops? | The Beacon

School Competition Begets Greater Quality: Newsroom: The Independent Institute

Good arguments for consumer choice in public education.

School Competition Begets Greater Quality: Newsroom: The Independent Institute

Consumers Don't Cause Recessions

Good, easy-to-follow, economic analysis by Robert Murphy.

Consumers Don't Cause Recessions

Libertarianism 101: What's the libertarian position on foreign policy?

I agree. "Mucking around in the doings of other countries isn't foreign policy; it's just arrogant muscle flexing."

Libertarianism 101: What's the libertarian position on foreign policy?

The Roots of Racial Profiling: Why are police targeting minorities for traffic stops? - Reason Magazine

Great article showing the connection between racial profiling and draconian drug and asset forfeiture laws.

"It should be obvious that there's something nutty about a legal system that assumes suspects in murder, robbery, and rape cases are innocent until a trial proves otherwise, but assumes that a landscaper carrying some cash is guilty of drug trafficking"

The Roots of Racial Profiling: Why are police targeting minorities for traffic stops? - Reason Magazine

The Liberty Papers »Blog Archive » Why Do We Need Expensive College Degrees to Get A Simple Job?

Eye-opening analysis of an issue I have been wondering about for some time.

The Liberty Papers »Blog Archive » Why Do We Need Expensive College Degrees to Get A Simple Job?

Will the Republicans Save Us? by Laurence M. Vance

I agree with Laurence M. Vance. If we’re looking to the Republicans save us, we’re doomed.

Will the Republicans Save Us? by Laurence M. Vance

The Dangerous Minimum Wage Mirage: Why raising the minimum wage will hurt workers and worsen the economy - Reason Magazine

Excellent article. Steve Chapman explains why raising the minimum wage will hurt workers and worsen the economy.

The Dangerous Minimum Wage Mirage: Why raising the minimum wage will hurt workers and worsen the economy - Reason Magazine

Campaign For Liberty — Romans Chapter 13 Revisited | by Chuck Baldwin

Excellent discussion of the U.S. Christian's responsibility to obey man versus God.

Campaign For Liberty — Romans Chapter 13 Revisited   | by Chuck Baldwin

The Case for Separation of School and State

Good Q/A of the case for separation of school and State.

The Case for Separation

Chinese tire ban won't save jobs | detnews.com | The Detroit News

I agree with Ross Kogel, Jr: Chinese tire ban won't save jobs.

Chinese tire ban won't save jobs | detnews.com | The Detroit News

A Free Market in Health Care Is the Only Solution by Jacob G. Hornberger

I agree. We need separation of medicine and State.

A Free Market in Health Care Is the Only Solution by Jacob G. Hornberger

Shame on Conservatives by Jacob G. Hornberger

I agree with Jacob Hornberger that libertarians "inevitably remind people of what conservatives once were and what they have become."

Shame on Conservatives by Jacob G. Hornberger

Campaign For Liberty — Collectivist Republicans Losing Their Fight? | by Tom Mullen

Tom Mullen points out that "the Republicans have continually sold us free markets, smaller government, individual liberty, and then delivered. . . socialism."

Campaign For Liberty — Collectivist Republicans Losing Their Fight?   | by Tom Mullen

Gentle Nock at Our Door - Frank Chodorov - Mises Institute

Little sketch worth the read. I like what I have read by Nock so far.

Gentle Nock at Our Door - Frank Chodorov - Mises Institute

Washington drops hammer on state gun plan

Glad to see states standing up for their rightful, Constitutional sovereignty.

"This is a free state and it's time to tell the thieves in Washington to butt out."

Washington drops hammer on state gun plan

Lawmakers, read the bills before you vote - The Boston Globe

I agree with Jeff Jacoby. Fewer and shorter laws more carefully thought through would be a vast improvement over today’s massive bills, which are assembled in the dark and enacted in haste.

Lawmakers, read the bills before you vote - The Boston Globe

The Right to a Guilty Verdict: Obama's empty promise of due process for terrorism suspects - Reason Magazine

I agree with Jacob Sullum. "When freedom is not a real possibility, due process is just for show."

The Right to a Guilty Verdict: Obama's empty promise of due process for terrorism suspects - Reason Magazine

Liberty and Safety by Andrew P. Napolitano

I heartily agree with the judge. "President Bush argued frequently and forcefully that his first job was to keep us safe. He was wrong. The Constitution tells us that his sole job was to enforce the Constitution; and that means keeping us free."

Liberty and Safety by Andrew P. Napolitano

Minimum Wage, Maximum Stupidity

Very easy-to-follow explanation by Peter Schiff.

Euro Pacific Capital

The Madoff Scandal Exposes Government Failure by Sheldon Richman

Great article on the poor cost-to-benefit ratio of government "regulation".

The Madoff Scandal Exposes Government Failure by Sheldon Richman

Bernie Madoff Was Only a Petty Crook Compared with Uncle Sam | The Beacon

Robert Higgs writes, "The U.S. government, however, does not bother to claim any prowess in investing the money it forces people to surrender to its scheme. It admits that the “client’s” return is now close to zero (varying a bit according to the client’s age and other factors). Nor does it carry out its admitted Ponzi scheme in a civilized way. Not only is participation in the scheme involuntary, but the government threatens violence against anyone who fails to participate as it commands him."

Bernie Madoff Was Only a Petty Crook Compared with Uncle Sam | The Beacon

I Was Just Following Orders by Laurence M. Vance

Great commentary on the double standard for U.S. and non-U.S. soldiers.

I thoroughly agree with Mr. Vance. "Just think what it would mean to the peace of the world, not to mention the U.S. defense budget, if American soldiers limited their activities to actually defending the United States – guarding American borders, patrolling American coasts, protecting American citizens, enforcing no-fly zones in American skies – and refusing to follow orders to do otherwise."

I Was Just Following Orders by Laurence M. Vance

Kill the Monster by Thomas E. Woods, Jr.

Great arguments against the Fed.

Kill the Monster by Thomas E. Woods, Jr.

Government Creates Human Suffering by Llewellyn H. Rockwell, Jr.

Excellent explanation of why mandated health care and full employment are mutually exclusive.

Government Creates Human Suffering by Llewellyn H. Rockwell, Jr.

If Ten Percent Is Good Enough for Jesus

Dated but incredibly timely tune by Ray Stevens.

If Ten Percent Is Good Enough for Jesus

Legendary CBS anchor Walter Cronkite dies at 92 - Yahoo! News

Good write-up on Walter Cronkite; RIP.

Legendary CBS anchor Walter Cronkite dies at 92 - Yahoo! News

Libertarian Quotes: "If once the people become inattentive to the public affairs, you and I, and Congress and Assemblies, Judges and Governors, shall all become wolves."

Jefferson's prediction has come true, with a vengeance.

Libertarian Quotes: "If once the people become inattentive to the public affairs, you and I, and Congress and Assemblies, Judges and Governors, shall all become wolves."

David Knowles - Paradigms Lost - Texas Gov. appoints creationist to run state’s Board of Education - True/Slant

I'd like to see more commitment to balance like this.

David Knowles - Paradigms Lost - Texas Gov. appoints creationist to run state’s Board of Education - True/Slant

Three National Treasures - Llewellyn H. Rockwell, Jr. - Mises Institute

Great review of the work of three great economists.

Three National Treasures - Llewellyn H. Rockwell, Jr. - Mises Institute

Campaign For Liberty — Bring Back the Declaration of Independence | by Matt Hawes

Great arguments for more liberty and less government.

Campaign For Liberty — Bring Back the Declaration of Independence   | by Matt Hawes

Tenth Amendment Center | Tenth Amendment Talking Points

Great article on the limitations of the federal government.

Tenth Amendment Center |  Tenth Amendment Talking Points

A New Stimulus? Washington Never Learns by Sheldon Richman

I agree with Sheldon Richman. The “stimulus” isn’t working because it can’t work. A new “stimulus” is therefore idiotic. Freeing the economy is the only path to sustainable prosperity.

A New Stimulus? Washington Never Learns by Sheldon Richman

Why Not Permanently Cancel Aid to Honduras? by Jacob G. Hornberger

I agree with Jacob Hornberger, "good news and bad news about the coup in Honduras. The good news is that the U.S. government has suspended $16.5 million in military-assistance programs to Honduras and threatened that another $180 million in aid could be at risk. The bad news is that it’s only a temporary suspension and only a threat of a cutoff, not a permanent termination of foreign aid to Honduras and its military."

Why Not Permanently Cancel Aid to Honduras? by Jacob G. Hornberger

Campaign For Liberty — Liberty Is An Absolute | by Tom Mullen

Excellent argument for liberty and against misguided attempts by government to prevent crime.

Campaign For Liberty — Liberty Is An Absolute   | by Tom Mullen

Campaign For Liberty — Hands off Honduras! | by Philip Giraldi

I agree with Philip Giraldi. Far better to leave Honduras alone and let the Hondurans sort it out.

Campaign For Liberty — Hands off Honduras!   | by Philip Giraldi

Campaign For Liberty — TSA: Tyrannical, Silly Agency | by Becky Akers

Becky Akers rakes the TSA deservedly over the coals.

Campaign For Liberty — TSA: Tyrannical, Silly Agency   | by Becky Akers

EDITORIAL: Rewriting economic history - Washington Times

Good analysis of the effect of government "stimulus" spending. It just moves money from what Americans would have spent it on to things the government prioritizes instead.

EDITORIAL: Rewriting economic history - Washington Times

Minimum-wage folly - The Boston Globe

I agree with Jeff Jacoby. Minimum-wage laws don’t make low- and unskilled Americans more productive, more experienced, or more desirable. They merely make them more expensive - and more likely, therefore, to be unemployed.

Minimum-wage folly - The Boston Globe

The Founders' Rights Stuff | CommonDreams.org

Rosa Brooks writes, "Sometimes I wonder: If the founders could have foreseen this, would they have bothered to fight the Revolutionary War?"

The Founders' Rights Stuff | CommonDreams.org

The Essence of Americanism | Foundation for Economic Education

Excellent article by Leonard Read encouraging individuals to take leadership in fomenting liberty.

The Essence of Americanism | Foundation for Economic Education

Real Change on Cuba by Jacob G. Hornberger

Excellent recommendations on U.S. foreign policy toward neighboring country of Cuba.

Real Change on Cuba by Jacob G. Hornberger

Boundless Ignorance versus Self-Government by James Bovard

American's must educate themselves about history, economics, and government if we are to preserve what little liberty we have left and make inroads on restoring all that we have lost.

Boundless Ignorance versus Self-Government by James Bovard

Government growth challenges liberty - Washington Times

Excellent article.

Government growth challenges liberty - Washington Times

Campaign For Liberty — Life, Liberty, and Property Are Inseparable | by Tom Mullen

Excellent article. Tom Mullen writes, "Our government ultimately gives us what we ask for. For the past century, we have increasingly asked it to make us slaves, seduced by the siren's song of comfort and security without responsibility. This can only be provided to each of us at another's expense and can only be provided to others at ours. Once we reject the idea that we can claim a right to another human being's life, the chains that bind us will be broken. Then, it will matter not who makes our laws."

Campaign For Liberty — Life, Liberty, and Property Are Inseparable   | by Tom Mullen

Congressman Ron Paul - Celebrating the Fight for Freedom on the Fourth - Texas Straight Talk

Great Independence Day message from Congressman Ron Paul.

Congressman Ron Paul - Celebrating the Fight for Freedom on the Fourth - Texas Straight Talk

Ambrose: Spending our way to disaster | ScrippsNews

I agree with Jay Ambrose. You take money out of the private economy so you can put it back in and then assume it now has newly acquired powers? Laughable.

Even more so after you take into account the political brokerage deducted by the bureaucrats (to borrow a phrase from Indiana House Concurrent Resolution Number 2, 1947).

Ambrose: Spending our way to disaster | ScrippsNews

Health Care Is Not a Right by Jacob G. Hornberger

Great explanation!

Health Care Is Not a Right by Jacob G. Hornberger

The American Revolution: Was it an Act of Biblical Rebellion?

Excellent analysis of the motivations of America's Founding Fathers.

WallBuilders - Issues and Articles - The American Revolution: Was it an Act of Biblical Rebellion?

Why freedom remains fragile despite its appeal | detnews.com | The Detroit News

Excellent commentary by Kevin Schmiesing on the prerequisites for liberty.

Why freedom remains fragile despite its appeal | detnews.com | The Detroit News

The Roots of Limited Government

Very good article. My first exposure to Alan Barth.

The Roots of Limited Government

Congressman Ron Paul - Cap and Trade Will Lead to Capital Flight - Texas Straight Talk

I agree with Congressman Ron Paul.

"Contrary to claims repeated over and over, there is no consensus in the scientific community that global warming is getting worse or that it is manmade. In fact over 30,000 scientists signed a petition recently directly disputing the claims on which this policy is based. Legitimate environmental claims should instead be directed towards the public sector. The government, especially the military, is the most serious polluter in the country, and is exempt from most EPA regulations."

Congressman Ron Paul - Cap and Trade Will Lead to Capital Flight - Texas Straight Talk

The American Conservative » In Praise of Robber Barons

Thomas Woods: It is government, with its subsidies, special privileges, and restrictions on competition, not to mention the looting of the public and rewarding of privileged interests that go on within the military-industrial complex, that promote monopolys properly understood and grants truly unfair advantages to some at the expense of everyone else.

The American Conservative » In Praise of Robber Barons

Federal Fraud in the Kahre Case by Jacob G. Hornberger

Excellent analysis of government's case against Las Vegas businessman Robert Kahre.

Federal Fraud in the Kahre Case by Jacob G. Hornberger

The American Way Of War « Dprogram.net

As Leo comments, grimly enjoyable sarcasm.

The American Way Of War « Dprogram.net

That Old-Time Religion: Christian Standard

David A. Fiensy has some good comments and questions on true Christianity versus the American right wing agenda.

Christian Standard

Editorial: Telling the truth about the drug war - Brockton, MA - The Enterprise

Reasoned analysis of the failure of the U.S. government "war on drugs".

Editorial: Telling the truth about the drug war - Brockton, MA - The Enterprise

Campaign For Liberty — Politicians Talking Gibberish About Health Care | by Tom Mullen

Great article on the folly of government-funded healthcare.

Campaign For Liberty — Politicians Talking Gibberish About Health Care   | by Tom Mullen

HoosierAccess » Blog Archive » The Scary Thing About School Funding…Ghosting

Eye-opening article about the school funding formula for Indiana.

HoosierAccess » Blog Archive » The Scary Thing About School Funding…Ghosting

Thunderous news passes almost without notice | End the War on Freedom

I like it. "Tennessee joins Montana in telling the feds that federal gun laws do not apply to firearms manufactured and sold entirely within their state."

Thunderous news passes almost without notice | End the War on Freedom

How to Escape Criminal Gangs | End the War on Freedom

If a burglar broke in over and over, do you think it would be effective to write him a letter asking him to stop?

How to Escape Criminal Gangs | End the War on Freedom

Congressman Ron Paul - International Bailout Brings Us Closer to Economic Collapse - Texas Straight Talk

Excellent commentary from Ron Paul on the sorry passage of the recent Supplemental Appropriations Bill.

Congressman Ron Paul - International Bailout Brings Us Closer to Economic Collapse - Texas Straight Talk

The US Embargo of Cuba Is a Failure | Daniel Griswold | Cato Institute: Commentary

I agree with Daniel Griswold. Obama should lift the embargo. Allowing more travel and farm exports to Cuba will be good for democracy and the economy.

The US Embargo of Cuba Is a Failure | Daniel Griswold | Cato Institute: Commentary

Drug Control Begets Gun Control: The violence in Mexico is caused by prohibition, not firearms. - Reason Magazine

I agree with Jacob Sullum: Instead of importing Mexico’s approach to guns, we should stop exporting our approach to drugs.

Drug Control Begets Gun Control: The violence in Mexico is caused by prohibition, not firearms. - Reason Magazine

Federal Prosecutors Buckle on Abusive Subpoena in Kahre Case by Jacob G. Hornberger

Jacob Hornberger writes, "It’s clear to me that the prosecutor’s actions are nothing more than an attempt to intimidate people into silence, especially with respect to criticism of a prosecution of a man who has committed the cardinal sin of bringing much-needed light to the economic and monetary damage that the Federal Reserve and the IRS have done to the American people."

Federal Prosecutors Buckle on Abusive Subpoena in Kahre Case by Jacob G. Hornberger

Interventionism Comes with Empire by Jacob G. Hornberger

Jacob Hornberger writes:

What should the U.S. government do with respect to the current situation in Iran? The same thing it should do with respect to the internal situation of every other country in the world: Butt out and stay out. In that way, whichever side prevails there is no anger or animosity within the losing side against the United States.

What should the American people do? Dismantle the U.S. Empire and restore a limited-government republic to our land, prohibit the U.S. government from interfering with the affairs of other nations, and liberate the American people — the private sector — to interact and trade with the people of the world.

Interventionism Comes with Empire by Jacob G. Hornberger

The Pentagon's Favorite Demon by Carlton Meyer

Excellent arguments for the United States to get its military out of Korea.

The Pentagon's Favorite Demon by Carlton Meyer

Shut Up about Iran by Sheldon Richman

I agree with Sheldon Richman -- the way for the United States to safeguard against terrorism is to follow a noninterventionist foreign policy.

Shut Up about Iran by Sheldon Richman

Pull Out of Korea (and Everywhere Else) by Jacob G. Hornberger

Jacob Hornberger writes, "It’s best to treat the North Korean regime as a scuba diver treats strange and bizarre creatures in the sea — by simply leaving it alone. Unfortunately, that’s not what the U.S. Empire doing. Instead it’s instead poking and provoking the North Korean regime, increasing the possibility of a miscalculation whose consequences would be disastrous for America."

Pull Out of Korea (and Everywhere Else) by Jacob G. Hornberger

Campaign For Liberty — Statement on Global Warming Petition Signed by 31,478 Scientists | by Ron Paul

Ron Paul: Bogus claims about climate dangers should not be used as justification to further limit freedom.

Campaign For Liberty — Statement on Global Warming Petition Signed by 31,478 Scientists   | by Ron Paul

Obama’s Baby Steps by David R. Henderson -- Antiwar.com

Obama first president to admit U.S. government’s role in overthrowing a democratically elected prime minister of Iran.

Obama’s Baby Steps by David R. Henderson -- Antiwar.com

Civil Liberties and the Winds of ‘Change’ by Justin Raimondo -- Antiwar.com

Justin Raimondo writes, "Civil liberties are the first items to be thrown overboard when the ship of state starts listing... One universal principle always obtains: the guys in charge want to silence the opposition... Progressives are trying to link mainstream conservatives with the nuts that cheered the murder of Dr. Tiller and that museum guard."

Civil Liberties and the Winds of ‘Change’ by Justin Raimondo -- Antiwar.com