Thursday 31 December 2009
Happy New Year
As we end the noughties
And as the teens begin
I resolve to be less haughty:
Less righteousness, more sin.
How To 'Fix' The Sunday Morning Shows
I think you miss the point. These shows are not about facts, they are about opinion: first, the opinion of the interviewer and then the opinion of the guest, if there is time. Facts are only used to support pre-held opinions and, so, can be made up on the spot by both sides.
Since the purpose of the show is winning arguments, rather than exploring ideas or having a conversation to discover anything new, checking facts seems a bit churlish. It is just a post-facto test of how well one side or the other invents on their feet - i.e. just another way of deciding who won the argument.
Latest Public Option Concession Comes Into Focus
What do we lose with state-based exchanges?
1) buying power, to get costs down
2) government jobs, to run each state exchange
3) political patronage, appointing friends to state insurance commissions
However, there is a compromise that solves all 3: have state-based exchanges but allow people to buy insurance out of state (on any state exchange). As people flock to the best value-for-money insurers, larger pools can spread risk better and bring costs down. Since no government or bureaucracy ever reduces staff just because work load goes down, state government jobs and patronage will be unchanged.
What do we lose with state-based exchanges?
1) buying power, to get costs down
2) government jobs, to run each state exchange
3) political patronage, appointing friends to state insurance commissions
However, there is a compromise that solves all 3: have state-based exchanges but allow people to buy insurance out of state (on any state exchange). As people flock to the best value-for-money insurers, larger pools can spread risk better and bring costs down. Since no government or bureaucracy ever reduces staff just because work load goes down, state government jobs and patronage will be unchanged.
Monday 28 December 2009
Thursday 24 December 2009
Windfall for Blairs as Sedgefield home sells
How is it a windfall? They bought it, then sold it a quarter-century later for more than they paid for it - just as most sensible property investors have done for generations. Does the Independent now consider all profit to be windfall? Indeed, if the Indie figures are correct, they seem to have just recouped their capital and paid off their mortgage,
How is it a windfall? They bought it, then sold it a quarter-century later for more than they paid for it - just as most sensible property investors have done for generations. Does the Independent now consider all profit to be windfall? Indeed, if the Indie figures are correct, they seem to have just recouped their capital and paid off their mortgage,
Biodome plan will bring Congo to Cheshire
Orwellian Newspeak had_it wrote Thursday, 24 December 2009 at 01:53 pm (UTC)
Sanctuary for endangered animals - does that mean prisons are sanctuaries for endangered people?
Unesco criticised over dictator's $300,000 prize
Cheap at twice the price had_it wrote: Thursday, 24 December 2009 at 01:57 pm (UTC)
Cheap at twice the price had_it wrote: Thursday, 24 December 2009 at 01:57 pm (UTC)
Hey, for 30 years of oppression, that's only 10k per year. Oppression usually costs a lot more than that.
Wednesday 23 December 2009
Balloon Boy Prosecutor Seeks Maximum Sentence
How much jail time did the media get for blasting this story to the front of the news?
How much jail time did the media get for blasting this story to the front of the news?
Smokers find haven on Tokyo's smoke-free streets
A first step had_it wrote: Wednesday, 23 December 2009 at 09:45 pm (UTC)
A first step had_it wrote: Wednesday, 23 December 2009 at 09:45 pm (UTC)
Now if we can just get obese people off the streets as well. On-the-spot fines might work here too.
Monday 21 December 2009
Pay deals for public sector fat cats need justifying
Pretty easy fomula had_it wrote:Monday, 21 December 2009 at 11:51 am (UTC)
Pretty easy fomula had_it wrote:Monday, 21 December 2009 at 11:51 am (UTC)
Just present the average wage in the department or agency concerned and ask the candidate - publicly - how many times this average worker's wage s/he thinks s/he should get.
Healthcare reform reaches US Senate
Tragedy - or an amusing mistake? had_it wrote:Monday, 21 December 2009 at 11:45 am (UTC)
Tragedy - or an amusing mistake? had_it wrote:Monday, 21 December 2009 at 11:45 am (UTC)
When we listen to presidential candidates make promises about what they will do if elected, anyone who has worked or lobbied anywhere the US legislature just laughs. They know that the president can't do any of those things. Only congress can pass laws - and they will only pass laws that will bring them a personal benefit and not hurt their re-election chances.
"the White House failed to hold out for more radical measures that the president promised during his soaring election campaign" If the white house wanted to do this, they would be holding out for a long, long, long time.
"the White House failed to hold out for more radical measures that the president promised during his soaring election campaign" If the white house wanted to do this, they would be holding out for a long, long, long time.
Teacher sacked for offering to pray for sick pupil
One strike and you're out had_it wrote: Monday, 21 December 2009 at 11:34 am (UTC)
One strike and you're out had_it wrote: Monday, 21 December 2009 at 11:34 am (UTC)
I hold no brief for silly superstition, but I would hope that this instance was merely an excuse to get rid of a supply teacher that was not up to snuff in other regards.
If not, if the policy is actually to stop using a supply teacher on the first mistake, I despair of supply teachers ever improving.
If she is any good as a teacher, help her to understand what she did wrong, get her to agree not to do it again, then send her back out,
If not, if the policy is actually to stop using a supply teacher on the first mistake, I despair of supply teachers ever improving.
If she is any good as a teacher, help her to understand what she did wrong, get her to agree not to do it again, then send her back out,
China stands accused of wrecking global deal
We lucked out had_it wrote: Monday, 21 December 2009 at 11:23 am (UTC)
We lucked out had_it wrote: Monday, 21 December 2009 at 11:23 am (UTC)
While China and the US got slammed, the EU (the world's 3rd largest polluter) barely copped a mention. The EU got exactly what it wanted: no reductions targets with consequences, and the chance to play holier than thou
Saturday 19 December 2009
Thousands spend night trapped in Channel Tunnel
Philippe Serna from Lincolnshire: "The journey was very long but it was fine to be honest just boring, frustrating and a bit stuffy."
Philippe Serna from Lincolnshire: "The journey was very long but it was fine to be honest just boring, frustrating and a bit stuffy."
What a sensible man. Whiners please take note.
Eastern Britain warned of more snow
Rail and Road Chaos had_it wrote: Saturday, 19 December 2009 at 04:02 pm (UTC)
Rail and Road Chaos had_it wrote: Saturday, 19 December 2009 at 04:02 pm (UTC)
Hey, give the authorities a break. After all, winter only happens once a year - we can't expect the bureaucrats to plan for an event that is so rare, can we?.
Prince Charles and the looming constitutional crisis
Shut up King had_it wrote: Saturday, 19 December 2009 at 03:49 pm (UTC)
Shut up King had_it wrote: Saturday, 19 December 2009 at 03:49 pm (UTC)
How dare he act like a human being when we (unwrittenly) require an automaton.
80 MPs revolt against ruling to repay expense claims
Good for them had_it wrote: Saturday, 19 December 2009 at 03:56 pm (UTC)
Either we have a rule of law or we do not. Retroactive changesto compensation would have any trade union out in the streets.
Wednesday 16 December 2009
Bonus row heats up as RBS says it must pay
Missing the point had_it wrote Wednesday, 16 December 2009 at 10:39 am (UTC)
Missing the point had_it wrote Wednesday, 16 December 2009 at 10:39 am (UTC)
"under the Companies Act each director must act in the way he considers would be most likely to promote the success of RBS for the benefit of our shareholders as a whole."
The government thinks it no longer is required to run RBS in the best interest of the shareholders, since the shareholders are now the taxpayers. Now the government can run the bank in the interest of getting elected and the taxpayer/shareholders can go hang.
The government thinks it no longer is required to run RBS in the best interest of the shareholders, since the shareholders are now the taxpayers. Now the government can run the bank in the interest of getting elected and the taxpayer/shareholders can go hang.
Johnson building an army of private police
Keep coersion nationalised. had_it wrote:Weds, 16 Dec 2009 at 10:05 am (UTC)
Police are meant to be a coercive arm of the state - using the threat of force and other menaces to extort taxes & licence fees, and actual force to make citizens to behave in certain ways. Private police forces can be used to do the same thing: the mafia is a good example.
Newspapers victorious in battle to protect sources
Good decision had_it wrote: Wednesday, 16 December 2009 at 09:54 am (UTC)
Good decision had_it wrote: Wednesday, 16 December 2009 at 09:54 am (UTC)
Although I agree with the EU decision to overturn UK sovereignty on this issue, there is one small, niggling caveat: did the papers have to disclose how much their source made by short-selling the stocks before s/he leaked the information?
Tuesday 15 December 2009
Wall Street Shorting the Dollar
Shorting is trivial; small change. The real problem comes from interest rates.
Banks can borrow here for 1% and invest in countries that pay 5%.
Given that option, what would you
COP 15: Accepting Responsibility
Imagine you live in a community that has garbage collection. The landfills are almost full and somethng must change if the town is not to drown in its own garbage. The less well off say that the richest 20% must cut their amount of garbage by 50% - recycling the other 50% by themselves. Meanwhile, the 80% less well off will be allowed to continue increasing the amount of garbage they put out for collection (albeit at a slower rate) and the richer citizens should pay them a fee for not increasing their garbage output faster than they did the year before. This fee will not relate to the amount of decrease in their garbage growth nor will it relate to the amount of recycling that the less affluent do: it will be a flat transfer of money that they say they will spend on recycling and garbage reduction - but if they do not, they will not have to pay it back. That's the G77 position.Monday 14 December 2009
Hopes of global emissions deal at Copenhagen fade
Plus ca change had_it wrote:Monday, 14 December 2009 at 10:18 am (UTC)
Plus ca change had_it wrote:Monday, 14 December 2009 at 10:18 am (UTC)
So nothing has changed - everyone wants to reduce greenhouse gasses as long as someone else pays for it. Pretty much like the average household then.
Leading article: Speeding into the future?
There is a difference had_it wrote: Monday, 14 December 2009 at 10:03 am (UTC)
I am all for investing in rail, but I am strongly opposed to having my tax dollars supporting fares - especially the fares of commuters into London. That is just a straight subsidy of their lifestyle choices.
Keep government investment confined to the infrastructure and let the consumers pay for themselves.
The cruelty of locking up child asylum-seekers
Let these people go! had_it wrote: Monday, 14 December 2009 at 09:58 am (UTC)
Let these people go! had_it wrote: Monday, 14 December 2009 at 09:58 am (UTC)
These children (along with their parents) should be released on their own recognisance in their home country to await the decision on their case in the UK.
Sunday 13 December 2009
How Homeopathic Medicines Work: Nanopharmacology At Its Best
This is not only wrong, it is dangerous: Not only does it promote the placebo effect as all that is needed, it also promotes the idea that a pill can solve all mental and physical health issues.
Patients should be able to sue for medical malpractice all homeopaths who do not deliver on their promises.
Does Death Exist? New Theory Says 'No'
This is not a scientific theory. To present it as such is disengenuous.
In fact it is pseudo-scientific babble. It is too vaguely presented to determine whether it even has anything to add to the philosophy of reality and perception.
Does Death Exist? New Theory Says 'No'
This is pseudo-scientific babble, NOT a scientific theory. To present it as such is either a silly grade-school level mistake or a deliberate lie. As a contribution to the philosophy of reality and perception, it might be germane, but is too vaguely expressed to decide either way.
This is pseudo-scientific babble, NOT a scientific theory. To present it as such is either a silly grade-school level mistake or a deliberate lie. As a contribution to the philosophy of reality and perception, it might be germane, but is too vaguely expressed to decide either way.
Friday 11 December 2009
MPs who have – and those who have not
Only the wealthy will be MPs? That is true already. If poor people get elected to Parliament, they are no longer poor.
The problem with relatively low remuneration (though still generous compared to UK average incomes) is that the best and the brightest run, not walk, to the nearest exit. Parliament will not become richer, it will become ever more mediocre.
Only the wealthy will be MPs? That is true already. If poor people get elected to Parliament, they are no longer poor.
The problem with relatively low remuneration (though still generous compared to UK average incomes) is that the best and the brightest run, not walk, to the nearest exit. Parliament will not become richer, it will become ever more mediocre.
Tuesday 8 December 2009
Has the internet brought us together or driven us apart? are we losing our culture?
The short answer is: Yes.
Just as the printing press led to the loss of theocracy and divine right monarchy (and some say memory)
Radio led to the loss of ships at sea disappearing without a trace (and some say the ability to entertain oneself)
TV led to the loss of candidates being chosen in smoke-filled back rooms (and some say imagination)
Every new overlay of invention loses some things that are good and some that are bad and changes many of the rest. There is only one way to deal with this phenomenon: get over it.
The short answer is: Yes.
Just as the printing press led to the loss of theocracy and divine right monarchy (and some say memory)
Radio led to the loss of ships at sea disappearing without a trace (and some say the ability to entertain oneself)
TV led to the loss of candidates being chosen in smoke-filled back rooms (and some say imagination)
Every new overlay of invention loses some things that are good and some that are bad and changes many of the rest. There is only one way to deal with this phenomenon: get over it.
Synchronised bombings kill 46 in Pakistan
They stay on course had_it wrote Tuesday, 8 December 2009 at 02:41 pm (UTC)
They stay on course had_it wrote Tuesday, 8 December 2009 at 02:41 pm (UTC)
Once again the Taliban murder innocent Muslim women and children, as is their policy.
When will there be a jihad against this stain on Islam?
When will there be a jihad against this stain on Islam?
I will pay more tax because I haven't found Mr Right?
All targeted taxes are discrimination.
Progressive income tax is discrimination against those who make more money.
Fuel taxes are discrimination against people who drive a lot.
Rebates on hybrid vehicles are discrimination in favour of those who drive green.
Family allowances are discrimination in favour of those who have children
You just don't like the government discriminating in favour of two-parent families.
As the research show that children in two-parent families do better than those in one-parent families, this discrimination seems to serve a legitimate government purpose - whether or not you or I agree with it.
Progressive income tax is discrimination against those who make more money.
Fuel taxes are discrimination against people who drive a lot.
Rebates on hybrid vehicles are discrimination in favour of those who drive green.
Family allowances are discrimination in favour of those who have children
You just don't like the government discriminating in favour of two-parent families.
As the research show that children in two-parent families do better than those in one-parent families, this discrimination seems to serve a legitimate government purpose - whether or not you or I agree with it.
So to whine about discrimination makes you no different than the bankers who oppose the super-tax on bonuses.
America Needs Jobs Bill, Federal Deficit Shouldn't Stand in the Way
Too right, Bob. Let our children and grandchildren pay for us to return to the lifestyle we have come to expect as a right.
Too right, Bob. Let our children and grandchildren pay for us to return to the lifestyle we have come to expect as a right.
We Are Now in a Crucial Moment
"borrowing money from China to buy oil from the Persian Gulf, and then burn it in ways that destroy the planet. Every bit of that’s got to change."
Yes, Al, but it is hard. The Chinese want to lend so we will buy their goods, Persian Gulf states want to sell because they have little other income, and the bankers make a profit on every leg of the cycle that they do not want to give up. Finally, politicians feel they can't live without the campaign contributions from the importers, the oil companies and the banks.
Good luck breaking this impasse and let us know if there is something you think that Joe Public can do to help.
"borrowing money from China to buy oil from the Persian Gulf, and then burn it in ways that destroy the planet. Every bit of that’s got to change."
Yes, Al, but it is hard. The Chinese want to lend so we will buy their goods, Persian Gulf states want to sell because they have little other income, and the bankers make a profit on every leg of the cycle that they do not want to give up. Finally, politicians feel they can't live without the campaign contributions from the importers, the oil companies and the banks.
Good luck breaking this impasse and let us know if there is something you think that Joe Public can do to help.
Monday 7 December 2009
Look on the bright side had_it wrote: Monday, 7 December 2009 at 04:52 pm (local)
The best way to reduce carbon emissions is to reduce the population of the planet by 10-20%.
If serious (+4 degrees C) climate change actually does come, the rising sea levels, water conflict and falling agri-production should accomplish this nicely. Problem solved.
Big squeeze hits middle classes and rich
Try to remember had_it wrote: Monday, 7 December 2009 at 04:20 pm (UTC)
Try to remember had_it wrote: Monday, 7 December 2009 at 04:20 pm (UTC)
The poor in Britain, including unemployed single mums, are incredibly wealthy by world standards, being in the top 30% of the world by possessions and consumption
The middle class in Britain are in the top 10% of the worlds most affluent people.
The rich - the top 1% - are much of a muchness world-wide. (OK, they will now have only 9 times more money than they can sensibly spend, as opposed to the 10 times more they had before the latest crisis.)
The middle class in Britain are in the top 10% of the worlds most affluent people.
The rich - the top 1% - are much of a muchness world-wide. (OK, they will now have only 9 times more money than they can sensibly spend, as opposed to the 10 times more they had before the latest crisis.)
MoD 'did not want to breach privacy of detainee'
Sorry? had_it wrote: Monday, 7 December 2009 at 04:24 pm (UTC)
Sorry? had_it wrote: Monday, 7 December 2009 at 04:24 pm (UTC)
"the British government has taken no steps over the past five years to ensure that they receive legal assistance" If the British government is responsible for providing legal assistance to every enemy soldier it captures, either war will become far too expensive for the country to wage or there will be an increase in 'take no prisoners' actions.
New world disorder: The age of uncertainty
Financial inevitability had_it wrote: Monday, 7 December 2009 at 04:40 pm (UTC)
It was not just the arrogant incompetence of G.W. Bush.Financial inevitability had_it wrote: Monday, 7 December 2009 at 04:40 pm (UTC)
There was no way that America could prosper while paying for the defence of Europe and Asia for the past 60 years. Had the US, like China, ploughed it's money into industry, instead of the defence of others, it would not be about to be overtaken economically. True, it could be argued that - by buying American debt - it was actually China and OPEC that paid for the defence of Europe and Asia. But the USA still has to repay that debt, so it's economic fall is inevitable.
Thursday 3 December 2009
The scandal of invisible harassment
This problem has gone unreported for years.
Journalists and their efforts should rightly be placed under scrutiny.
Those not doing enough should face legal action.
Anti-Surge Lawmakers Write Letter Of Opposition To Obama
These three had a their chance and put their point of view. After considering their views and those of many others, the Commander in Chief made a decision - so shut up and soldier.
Will Not Testify About Gatecrashing Salahis
Dear CongressGet off of this silly season stuff and get on with your real job.
This investigation, including figuring out how to fix the problem, can be handled by any low-level bureaucrat. So stop grandstanding and get back to work.
Lou Dobbs: 'Who The Hell Does This President Think He Is?'
He is the man the American people elected as their president, Lou.Who the hell are you?
Tuesday 1 December 2009
Mortgage Modification: Bank Bailouts By Another Name?
Let's look at it another way: Some people borrow 500k to buy stocks and bonds, because they believe the hype that the markets are good long-term investments. Their investments are now underwater (worth less than they paid for them). These people would be better off giving the banks their stocks to write off the loan, then rent them back (buy options). What government support can they get?Afghanistan: Obama Drops The Other Shoe
Was the Monty Python Holy Grail option (Run Away!) not even considered?How could they not contemplate having all the UN forces simply abandon moderate Afghan men and all Afghan women to their fates?
Monday 30 November 2009
Countdown to Copenhagen: The 'people's summit'
A test of true colours had_it wrote:Monday, 30 November 2009 at 01:25 pm (UTC)
A test of true colours had_it wrote:Monday, 30 November 2009 at 01:25 pm (UTC)
What proportion of the activists will have walked or bicycled to Copenhagen?
Britain faces return to Victorian levels of poverty
Planning for Failure had_it wrote:Monday, 30 November 2009 at 01:22 pm (local)
Planning for Failure had_it wrote:Monday, 30 November 2009 at 01:22 pm (local)
"higher earners would finance more generous, universal benefits"
Get the better off to give poorer people something for nothing as an entitlement, not as something to be earned. That will surely reduce dependence and poverty, won't it? But as Thatcher once quoth: sooner or later we will run out of other people's money.
Get the better off to give poorer people something for nothing as an entitlement, not as something to be earned. That will surely reduce dependence and poverty, won't it? But as Thatcher once quoth: sooner or later we will run out of other people's money.
Friday 27 November 2009
The real reasons Blair went to war
It's modern politics had_it wrote: Friday, 27 November 2009 at 01:22 pm (UTC)
It's modern politics had_it wrote: Friday, 27 November 2009 at 01:22 pm (UTC)
This is the current political thinking: winning an election is not the first thing, it is the only thing.
Whether Dumbocrat or Retroblican, Layburr or Consternative, politicians are blithely willing to do untold damage to their country if it only helps them win an election.
Whether Dumbocrat or Retroblican, Layburr or Consternative, politicians are blithely willing to do untold damage to their country if it only helps them win an election.
China sets ambitious target on emissions
More Happy talk had_it wrote:Friday, 27 November 2009 at 01:14 pm (UTC)
More Happy talk had_it wrote:Friday, 27 November 2009 at 01:14 pm (UTC)
So China, the worlds biggest polluter, promises to cut the rate of emissions growth; not cut emissions, just reduce the growth rate of emissions. Sadly, I suspect that even this will turn out to be a Kyoto promise - one the signatory has no intention of keeping.
Pay rise for peers
About time! had_it wrote: Friday, 27 November 2009 at 01:10 pm (UTC)
Abolishing the communication allowance removes all suggestion that keeping constituents informed is part of a member's job. Let 'em eat cake.
Thursday 26 November 2009
Can a Muslim say happy Christmas to his friends?
"Whoever argues that a person is entitled to complete freedom of faith is an unbeliever, guilty of the major sin of disbelief." Whoever argues that a person is NOT entitled to complete freedom of faith is a bigot who promotes hate crime."The person who maintains that the Sun does not move should be condemned to death" - so all intelligent people should die? Reminds me of Pol Pot.
"It is not permitted to teach secular law as a general course in higher education. This subject should be limited to specialists, who are able to show how secular law deviates from the truth..." i.e. those who agree with me.
That there are not fatwas against the people who issued these edicts is a stain on all Islam.
Wednesday 25 November 2009
Google says sorry
"Cynics noted that Google was not so high-minded when it entered the lucrative Chinese market..."
Here's a solution: Let's have China set the standard for free speech.
Will that make the cynics happy?
"Cynics noted that Google was not so high-minded when it entered the lucrative Chinese market..."
Here's a solution: Let's have China set the standard for free speech.
Will that make the cynics happy?
PS: Most of the criticism seems directed at the the tool that people used to find the image, little at the hosting website and almost none at the creator of the image. Does anyone else find this odd? Unless we want Google to become Big Brother, deciding what people can and cannot see, doesn't it seem downright misguided?
Obama sets target for emissions cut
It feels good
had_it wrote: Thursday, 26 November 2009 at 03:47 am (UTC)Almost no signatory to the Kyoto protocol met their stated targets, but it is nice to see America joining the happy talk at last. Even if Copenhagen is as big a failure as Kyoto, perhaps things will be less bad than they would have been without this move.
Parties face new rules to end 'white men's club'
Good idea, but
A fair assessment of discrimination in employment: is the proportion of qualified applicants from a given group roughly equivalent to the proportion of those hired? With democratically selected candidates, this is a bit tricky. It measures the biases of the selecting population but is difficult to fix without destroying democracy. Still, reporting the proportions might be a step in the right direction: it would let people see their bias and decide whether or not they wish to change it.
It might also fix your teeth and get bankers to behave responsibly. Unlikely, but could.
Okay. You have now had two days. No other side. No explanation of why you would take allegations and report them as fact or why you would use words like "betrayal" and "wasted".
Is the Bulldog to be real effort at journalism, or do we need to ask who is paying whom?
Is the Bulldog to be real effort at journalism, or do we need to ask who is paying whom?
Tuesday 24 November 2009
Soviet Occupation of Afghanistan Through CIA Eyes: Lessons for the US Today
Of course, when the Soviets did withdraw, there was a bit of a blood bath, women were told to stay home and forget education, men were told how to wear their hair and to forget democracy, Al Qaeda was invited to plan and conduct the murder of civilians abroad (mostly Muslims, including lots of women and children). Is that how this author thinks the UN involvement should end?
Of course, when the Soviets did withdraw, there was a bit of a blood bath, women were told to stay home and forget education, men were told how to wear their hair and to forget democracy, Al Qaeda was invited to plan and conduct the murder of civilians abroad (mostly Muslims, including lots of women and children). Is that how this author thinks the UN involvement should end?
Monday 23 November 2009
Why is my gender suddenly in retreat?
Use one of your roles
Women raise and educate most of the children in this and any other country.
Stop whining and do something about it.
Stop whining and do something about it.
Battle lines drawn on US health Bill
One side wishes to pass a weak and ineffective bill, the other wishes to emasculate it entirely. Both are paid political compensation from the same deep pockets.
One side wishes to pass a weak and ineffective bill, the other wishes to emasculate it entirely. Both are paid political compensation from the same deep pockets.
expenses spotlight falls on Britain's judiciary
The expenses appear reasonable to me.
As there is a remarkable lack of fact in the story, until I see any evidence of a judge scamming the system, I will file this story under the let's-you-and-him fight category. That is, a story designed to weaken trust in an institution and to increase anomie and alienation in society.
The expenses appear reasonable to me.
As there is a remarkable lack of fact in the story, until I see any evidence of a judge scamming the system, I will file this story under the let's-you-and-him fight category. That is, a story designed to weaken trust in an institution and to increase anomie and alienation in society.
Friday 20 November 2009
Church Of Scientology Accused Of Torture And Forced Abortions
Okay, pretty much like any other church then.
Wednesday 18 November 2009
China will soon export its ideas as well
While Barack was lecturing on Tibet, I was surprised that Hu didn't lecture back on our treatment of 12 million illegal immigrants (or the lack thereof).
While Barack was lecturing on Tibet, I was surprised that Hu didn't lecture back on our treatment of 12 million illegal immigrants (or the lack thereof).
Obama Paints a Fresh Bull's-Eye on NYC
I am getting a little tired of the cowards who fear a trial because it might damage New York or might fail because of flaws in our justice system. These people are the natural targets of terrorism, and it works: they get scared and try to bend over backwards to accommodate the terrorists by saying "not on our soil" or "we have to use tribunals because our courts aren't good enough." Grow some backbone - stand strong for America.
I am getting a little tired of the cowards who fear a trial because it might damage New York or might fail because of flaws in our justice system. These people are the natural targets of terrorism, and it works: they get scared and try to bend over backwards to accommodate the terrorists by saying "not on our soil" or "we have to use tribunals because our courts aren't good enough." Grow some backbone - stand strong for America.
Tuesday 17 November 2009
Imam Al Awlaki Did Not Press Fort Hood Gunman
Any Imam who has not issued a fatwa against or called for jihad against Al Qaeda and the Taliban has Muslim blood on his hands. These two organizations have murdered more Muslims than all the western forces combined. Anyone who does not condemn them lies each time he says Salam Aleikum.Just as any Irish priest who did not condemn the IRA and ex-communicate any member of its military wing has Christian blood on his hands, any Irish protestant minister than did not condemn the UDA and ex-communicate any member of its military wing has Christian blood on his hands. They lied each time the gave the benediction.
Insurance Runs Out For 12-Year-Old Without Arm
This kid tugs at our heartstrings in a way that distracts from clear thinking. If the lifetime limit is set at $300,000 or $3 million, the premiums have to be higher - one gets what one pays for.
I do not know if such options were available to his parents at the time they made their selection. If it was, they are to blame - not the insurers. If higher coverage limits were NOT available, then this family was not offered true health insurance and hence have a moral case, if not a legal one.
I do not know if such options were available to his parents at the time they made their selection. If it was, they are to blame - not the insurers. If higher coverage limits were NOT available, then this family was not offered true health insurance and hence have a moral case, if not a legal one.
Army Mom Skipping Deployment To Care For Baby
Duty or family; abandon your child or your comrades: not a fun choice.
She made the right decision, but I feel for her dilemma.
Give her a general discharge and let her be on her way
She made the right decision, but I feel for her dilemma.
Give her a general discharge and let her be on her way
Palin Accuses AP Of "Opposition Research" In Fact Check of Book
Well, she's right, of course.Anyone who stands for facts and against drivel is opposed to Sarah Palin as a political candidate.
Monday 16 November 2009
Nick Clegg: Cancel the Queen's Speech
Dream on Clegg. You are asking for sensible behaviour at a pre-scripted piece of theatre.
Next thing, you'll be asking MPs to represent their constituents, rather than their party - or for the party to care about anything other than winning elections. (And that will get you in just as much trouble at LibDem headquarters as it would at the HQs of other parties.)
Dream on Clegg. You are asking for sensible behaviour at a pre-scripted piece of theatre.
Next thing, you'll be asking MPs to represent their constituents, rather than their party - or for the party to care about anything other than winning elections. (And that will get you in just as much trouble at LibDem headquarters as it would at the HQs of other parties.)
Education officials spent £10m on first-class fares
If we measured these bureaucrats on results, I would be happy to give the top 10% first class travel. Unfortunately, if they are measured on anything at all, it is input not outcomes. Their use of 1st class comes from a sense of entitlement of rank, not from a desire to work on the train.
Although I accept that many do work on the train, the work that they do does not seem worth the price. I am prepared to be corrected: let the education bureaucrats list the work they did and its effect on results.
If we measured these bureaucrats on results, I would be happy to give the top 10% first class travel. Unfortunately, if they are measured on anything at all, it is input not outcomes. Their use of 1st class comes from a sense of entitlement of rank, not from a desire to work on the train.
Although I accept that many do work on the train, the work that they do does not seem worth the price. I am prepared to be corrected: let the education bureaucrats list the work they did and its effect on results.
Best thing to do to get a relationship back on track: lie.
With advice like this, no wonder kids are in trouble.
With advice like this, no wonder kids are in trouble.
Thursday 12 November 2009
Parliamentary questions not there to be dignified
Is Parliamentary question time just public-school theatre?
I won't dignify that question with an answer
I won't dignify that question with an answer
Religious freedom at last!
Man sacked for belief in psychics backed by judge
It is nice to know that respectable religions like Scientology, Jedi, Voodoo and Wiccan will now be protected, along with beliefs in psychics, ghosts, laetrile, numerology, faith healing and UFO's. If we can protect the evil five (Catholicism, Protestantism, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism - those responsible for more war and oppression than any other cause), it is about time we started protecting more gentle superstitions.
It is nice to know that respectable religions like Scientology, Jedi, Voodoo and Wiccan will now be protected, along with beliefs in psychics, ghosts, laetrile, numerology, faith healing and UFO's. If we can protect the evil five (Catholicism, Protestantism, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism - those responsible for more war and oppression than any other cause), it is about time we started protecting more gentle superstitions.
Wednesday 11 November 2009
Key differences between Dumbocrats and Retroblicans
Redistribution of Wealth
Dumbocrats: One main purpose of taxation is the redistribution of wealth
Retroblicans: Government should not redistribute wealth, except to farmers, steel-makers, oil companies, banks, insurance companies and other friends of ours.
Immigration
Retroblicans: Throw them all out, except for those that work for me and my friends
Dumbocrats: Let them all in, as long as someone else pays for them
Health Care
Retroblicans: No Socialized Medicine, but don’t you dare touch our Medicare drugs plan
Doctors, Hospitals, Drug Companies and Insurers deserve a fat profit at our expense
Dumbocrats: Give the indigent free health insurance, as long as someone else pays for it
Doctors, Hospitals and Insurance Companies deserve no profit (except for mine).
Social Security
Retroblicans: Get government out: people should plan for their own retirement income
PS: don’t you dare touch our Social Security
Dumbocrats: Give everyone free social security, as long as someone else pays for it
Dumbocrats: One main purpose of taxation is the redistribution of wealth
Retroblicans: Government should not redistribute wealth, except to farmers, steel-makers, oil companies, banks, insurance companies and other friends of ours.
Immigration
Retroblicans: Throw them all out, except for those that work for me and my friends
Dumbocrats: Let them all in, as long as someone else pays for them
Health Care
Retroblicans: No Socialized Medicine, but don’t you dare touch our Medicare drugs plan
Doctors, Hospitals, Drug Companies and Insurers deserve a fat profit at our expense
Dumbocrats: Give the indigent free health insurance, as long as someone else pays for it
Doctors, Hospitals and Insurance Companies deserve no profit (except for mine).
Social Security
Retroblicans: Get government out: people should plan for their own retirement income
PS: don’t you dare touch our Social Security
Dumbocrats: Give everyone free social security, as long as someone else pays for it
IG CEO Robert Benmosche Ready To Quit Over Pay Constraints
I think you are perhaps too simplistic about a complex area. People resent the big bonuses that sports stars get for hitting a ball, until you explain that the team owners are making millions from the TV coverage - then folks agree that the players ought to get a fair piece of the pie. As Walter Cronkite said when he got the first million-dollar newscaster contract: Am I worth it? Compared to a school teacher, no; but compared to a baseball player, you bet!What folks do not understand is what talents are actually being paid for, why executive compensation is such a large share of the profits and why they do not seem to sink in relative measure when the companies do badly. They also have been led to distrust the term "bonus" in its own right. If these exec's could swallow their pride and call their performance-contingent compensation "commission", much of the animosity might disappear.
Indeed, if executives were paid commission on profits, both shareholders and the general public might be a good deal happier - especially if commissions went negative when the executives showed losses.
Fannie and Freddie Fire Their Own Inspector General
Why? Did the IG object to the size of their bonuses?
End this futile 'war on drugs'
You answer your own questions
had_it wrote: Wednesday, 11 November 2009 at 10:47 am (UTC)You answer your own questions
Reasons for the drug war:
1) "there is a huge profit to be made in a black market" Sensible drugs policies would reduce that profit
2) "Under prohibition, drug use becomes more hardcore" which means better profit margins
3) "The drug war doesn't reduce drug use" so it gives employment in criminal justice without damaging the profits
"What would happen if we started to build our drugs policy around the facts, rather than our desire for a fuzzy feeling inside?" The media would never allow this: basing things on fact makes the story too hard to cover.
"like all faiths, it can only be maintained by cultivating a deliberate blindness to the evidence." True - and this has not stopped people adhering to the lies of Islam, Christianity, Hinduism and Judaism, so what is your point?
1) "there is a huge profit to be made in a black market" Sensible drugs policies would reduce that profit
2) "Under prohibition, drug use becomes more hardcore" which means better profit margins
3) "The drug war doesn't reduce drug use" so it gives employment in criminal justice without damaging the profits
"What would happen if we started to build our drugs policy around the facts, rather than our desire for a fuzzy feeling inside?" The media would never allow this: basing things on fact makes the story too hard to cover.
"like all faiths, it can only be maintained by cultivating a deliberate blindness to the evidence." True - and this has not stopped people adhering to the lies of Islam, Christianity, Hinduism and Judaism, so what is your point?
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"The most shocking aspect of the whole case" is that NONE of the new "security" procedures would have made the slightest difference to Abdulmutallab. He would have walked/sat through them all and still ignited his bomb.
However, neither politicians, government agencies or airlines can be seen to do nothing in the face of a media incident, so these new measures are ones that have been waiting in the wings for a publication trigger.
Here's an assignment for the budding investigative reporter: what other "security" measures are in the queue, waiting for the next media-covered incident?
PS: What would have helped? Profiling might have, but that is doubtful. Following their own procedures: e.g. being extremely thorough - with a minute examination of everyone on a watch list - would have.
The failure here is not panic myopia: prohibiting nail scissors with a 1-inch blade while allowing 6-inch sharpened pencils. The failure is not being thorough before any passengers arrive at security screening