Steve this is a brilliant essay. I just want to comment on one subtle aspect, the relationship of knowledge, understanding, and doing... because I see it as a framework to aid our thinking in any realm.
We randomly get, and seek out knowledge/facts. We then take that information (I'll use the analogy of a clothes dryer) toss it around with other information and the heat of our emotions/desires until we understand relationship. When we understand we can do something new based upon What We Value. So: Knowledge in > Understanding > New ability.
45 values only "me." He does not care what happens to "we" or the "many." Thus the results are evil. Obama demonstrated caring for himself, others, and multitudes. Thus the results are good and honorable.
What I tried to say was, we want to increase ableness, through understanding the information we gather. Knowledge in itself is inadequate... we've all met the highly educated person who can't hold a job or function in life, as an extreme of what I'm saying.
The stereotype of the absent-minded professor is often all too true. I know, I was married to one for 25 years. He was at the top of his very narrow field (a form of applied mathematics) and couldn't remember to take out the garbage. More important, he completely forgot to file his tax returns for two years. Luckily he forgot this when he was firmly an ex.
Sharp of you to hone in on the theme of knowledge, as a scholar did it just jump off the screen to you? I didn't pick up on that until you pointed it out, just enjoyed the variety and piqued my interest in the movies. Like Sharon, I really want to make time to see a few! As usual, waiting for heads to explode and someone's knickers to get in a knot over Hollywood once again highlighting uncomfortable history. Slava Ukraini
So glad that there are more than 1 of me. 3 weeks ago I decided to make a list of 10 movies that I would watch as soon as they became available on cable or streaming. I’ve watched 3 of them already: Anatomy of a fall, Oppenheimer and Memory, the latter not included in any Oscar nominations. Indeed it feels good to get away from the non-stop drumming of American politics and I’m so glad that I’ve rekindled my affection for good movies.
Buckle up, good people, because we're about to witness a puppet show that puts Punch and Judy to shame. In this twisted theater of American politics, where truth is just a casualty, left bleeding on the stage by the marionettes of grandiose fiction, we find ourselves teetering on the brink of a future so dark, it makes the Brothers Grimm look like bedtime storytellers.
Enter Donald Trump, the puppet master extraordinaire, pulling the strings of his fellow autocrat, Viktor Orban. They prance across the gaudy, gold-plated stage of Mar-a-Lago like a pair of demented Pinocchios, their noses growing with every lie they spin. It's a sickening display of mutual admiration, a duet between two puppets who get their kicks from stomping on the very principles of democracy they're supposed to represent.
But here's the thing: this isn't just some twisted children's tale. This is a full-blown assault on the very foundations of our society. When Trump proclaims his love for "the poorly educated," he's not just playing to the cheap seats. He's declaring war on knowledge itself, on the very concept of enlightenment that has cut humanity's strings and allowed us to think for ourselves.
And now, as the 2024 election looms on the horizon like the final act of a Shakespearean tragedy, we've got a choice to make. Are we going to sit back and watch as the curtain falls on democracy, smothering the last gasps of freedom? Or are we going to stand up, grab the puppet strings, and yank them back from the hands of the autocrats?
Because make no mistake, this is a battle for the very soul of America. It's a choice between a future where truth matters, where knowledge is valued, and where the power of the people is the only script that matters - or a future where the puppet master's word is law, and the masses are nothing more than marionettes, dancing to the tune of tyranny.
As Steven Beschloss has so eloquently asked, what's it going to be, America? Are we going to let the puppets of autocracy and ignorance take their final bow? Or are we going to storm the stage, armed with the unshakable conviction that truth and democracy will always triumph in the end?
The curtain is rising, and the stakes couldn't be higher. It's time to choose sides, to take center stage, and to fight like our lives depend on it. Because in this twisted puppet show of politics, the only thing that matters is the pursuit of truth - and the courage to cut the strings of those who would manipulate it.
As Cicada said, well stated Gloria. I want to point
out one thing though. The enemy of democracy
isn’t just Donald Trump and others like him. It’s
also the republican party. The GOP enabled and
facilitated all of it.
Even if the GOP is teetering on the brink of bankruptcy—thanks to Trump—they are going to throw everything they’ve got into the upcoming election and there are plenty of millionaires/billionaires willing to help bankroll their planned government takeover.
All of the sad displays of naked greed are the foundation, the bedrock, for the GOP’s house of cards. And like a house of cards, it will all blow over at some point. The November elections are their
best chance to grab the brass ring after 30-40
years of planning and maneuvering. So as you said
Gloria, everybody should buckle up and plan for
the worst.
My personal belief is that Dems will prevail, but republicans aren’t going to quietly slink away.
I’ve often thought of a sporting event when pondering the current political scene. Being such a prevalent pastime of American culture. Where one chooses a “team/side” and sticks with it no matter what. Cheerleading no matter the consequence, for that which serves one’s own agenda.
Many of us can be seen as “side-liners”, waiting for our chance to be in the game. Seemingly waiting for a “coach”(conscience) to tell us it’s time. Or, perhaps we’re in the bleachers, cheering and bellowing to one’s content for, or against, whichever team suits our beliefs, without any substantial repercussion. After all, there’s nothing really physical, yet, with this game we play.
Then, I suppose, there are those who aren’t the least bit interested in this game. No participation on their part seems to affect them personally, so they imagine. One’s struggle for survival is more relevant. Listening and validating the persistent rantings and bickering of supposed “leaders” whose responsibilities ought to include making life’s “pursuit of happiness” just a little bit easier for them, seems futile. All too often, these leaders/team players have an agenda of their own, “winning”, that doesn’t seem to include them in the least.
If only the individual could see the bigger “Game” at play here. Where Truth, Democracy, Common Good, and such lofty ideals, are Global in reach. And, this American “game”, is to be taken seriously. For it is NOT just another sporting event! The Ideals that are being tested here are not intended to be selfish or narcissistic in nature. We’re dealing with Kindred Spirits now. That which unites Persons of Good Will the world over.
And, Knowledge, in itself, without Love, is futile indeed. We need to remind ourselves of this now and then. I am Hopeful.
An unusual, but illuminating assessment of how our current cinema reflects our better angels, and yet also shines a light on the worst of what we do as people. Knowledge, wisdom, truth, facts, are all things we should seek to expand in our personal lives and society. But we also need introspection, to acknowledge the consequences of what we do, no matter the intent, but see how others may use and abuse new knowledge.
I wish you had mentioned “20 Days in Mariupol” as it shows both the best and worst and the strength to continue on and fight for what is right regardless of the cost to us personally. It is a lesson in grit, determination, and perseverance in the face of unimaginable destruction and impending evil. We should all pay heed to that here in the US as we fight for our survival as a nation at the ballot box.
I just watched “Anthropoid”, based on a true story about Czech Resistance fighters’ dangerous mission in Prague during WWII. Cillian Murphy stars, and he is brilliant. But a grim and sometimes gruesome reminder, also, of the unabashed cruelty and violence of autocratic systems. We don’t want to even imagine it happening here, but many of us are seeing the signs. I truly hope voting in great numbers will succeed and not be overturned in a coup. Project 2025 needs a LOT more media attention .
Naima, thanks for the recommendation on Anthropoid. You are right, most have no clue how close we are to the precipice of a cruel, autocratic regime here in the US. Channeling my inner Sinclair Lewis in “It Can Happen Here.”
Most people I know cannot stomach the violence and that is understandable.I happened to find the actual entire script for the movie here: (this exchange between Lenka and Josef struck me especially having come from a military family and having a father who gave his life in WWII. I just joined "stopthecoup2025.org by the way. People need to know about this!!
JOSEF:
I think it’s my turn to apologize
to you about the other morning.
You were right to be angry. We
should have told you what was at risk.
To give you the choice to walk away.
LENKA:
(ironic hufff) Walk away?
Opinions are divided as to what constitutes resistance.
That is powerful and unfortunately true. We do not hear much about the extermination of the best and brightest in Czechoslovakia in 1939-40. Events such as the Katyn massacre in Poland have captured more attention. But I can imagine that happening here if Trump is elected.
Imagining the unimaginable. I don't want anyone to be surprised by having to be detained in a "camp", injured or even killed because they weren't paying attention. Not even those who have been duped by the Right Wing into believing that Autocracy is going to be better for THEM than democracy. Such ignorance is terribly sad though. Solidarity, mutual respect, dignity, human rights: all these are on the line and we all CAN do something. Thank you for paying attention!
I really appreciate your pointing out this theme, even though I haven't had time to actually watch movies in a long time. I do wish people would search for knowledge before they start spouting opinions.
My current bête noire is the number of people speculating on Chubb's ties to Russia (re the E Jean Carroll bond). Come on folks, learn how sureties operate. If it took, as is usual, full cash collateral, its issuing of the bond is risk free to Chubb and its shareholders and is a slam dunk decision that most sureties would take, given the premium. (Remember, it is likely to be over a million PER YEAR).
Surety isn't understood by most Americans, and most Americans haven't had to care they don't know about it--until now. I just read extensive comments on a story on the bond, and they tend to go all out conspiracy theory about Chubb itself.
The danger of undue influence regarding this bond is who provided the collateral. That's a legitimate concern, but it is far more likely to be any of the abundant home grown billionaires who want to see tax breaks continue. Focus on the likely, not the conspiracy, once you understand how the whole thing works.
Sorry for the soap box. It's just that forming opinions in ignorance isn't limited to the Right Wing. So anything that causes people to increase their knowledge and understanding is a plus for me--even if it is movies I don't have time to see myself.
Always excellent read. I look forward to new postings.
Questions in my mind about media's handling of the two presidential candidates;
One can do no right, the other...oh well..
Why is this done by the likes of NYT, WaPo etc?
Why when DJT talks negatively about immigrants the reporting not start with his two immigrant wives- one ex, He complains about chain migration, his in-laws came under chain immigration?
Why when reporting about border, crime, and "illegal.." do the responsible reporting not juxtapose real statistics to provide perspective?
Would appreciate your setting my head straight about this and similar nagging questions.
Brilliant newsletter, Steven! I nearly felt that I was reading meaningful classical literature -the kind with timeless themes, metaphors, truths, and cause for reflection. We need more literature and great essays to be taught in our schools. Thank you.
My father and I lived in Osage county from when I was in 5th grade until I graduated from college. I never once heard any mention of the killings of the Osage for their oil headrights. I imagine there were plenty of people in town who benefitted from that, even if they were's the killers. There was so much money there back then that they called Pawhuska the Paris of America. I haven't read the book, but will watch the movie.
Considering what Melania did to the Rose Garden, I don't know why anyone would give her flowers. As for trump, he could stand up there and tell America I intend to be a dictator beyond day one, everyone will do as I say, there will be no more elections, no more voting, I am The Word. And those who follow him would clap and cheer, and NAZI flags would swing in the air. There is only one way to be rid of trump. I won't say it, but no doubt all of us have thought it. It has been done by CIA help in other countries. Even our JFK tried it with Castro. Just think of the change if that briefcase had gotten Hitler when it exploded. Is it wrong to think it, wish it? I don't know. Him for a country. ????
As for the pursuit of knowledge, the answer is better teachers. And how to get them? Salaries. There isn't an Oppenheimer or an Einstein out there who didn't first have teachers. Yet, such people go on to fame and riches while teacher tries to live on $50,000 a year. Many, tenured, just hang in there till they can retire. Others switch to Ed. because they couldn't make it in Business. Although money needs to be spent on school buildings and other tangible things, it has been proven that it isn't how much per student is spent but the quality of the teacher.
But it gets complicated. That means higher property taxes, higher salaries on and on. So many problems. So few solutions.
While the American media spotlight, ever enthralled by the sensationalism of the moment, remains fixated on Trump and his legal woes, other crucial and overlooked dangers continue to unfold in the United States.
First, we have about half our country responding to Trump like zombies - brainwashed followers of the Republican Party (similar to members of the Jim Jones cult), who were unsuspectedly caught in coercive control techniques that Trump uses daily to influence his followers. Second, we have a presidential candidate who sold his soul and our country to the Russians at least ten years prior to sleeping in the White House after 2016. (From Democracy to Democrazy by Graham) Third, the influence of Putin's strategies quietly attempts to reshape the trajectory of American politics and American lives. We see that happening NOW.
This current political race is not just between Democrats and Republicans, but between a decent, hard-working, public servant who has successfully served our country for almost 50 years. His constituents re-elected him for 36 years as a Senator - he must have been doing something right!!! His opponent is a man who has been compromised by Russia, who is a convicted rapist and a serial sexual predator, convicted of fraud with mounds of solid documented evidence and proof, and is now facing 91 criminal charges. His speeches are filled with revenge, hatred, defamation of others, and with no discernable ideology.
Americans were duped decades ago into believing that Russia is no longer our enemy and the world is living in peaceful coexistence. Yes, the Cold War did not die - a revelation for many Americans. We let our guard down, while Russia rebuilt their economy, their military, and their weaponry. Then in 2000, Putin became the second President of Russia. He instantly converted Russia from a communist-socialist form of government to a dictatorship. He is a man who spent his entire life as a KGB spy, and blames the United States for the downfall of the USSR. He wants REVENGE.
Over the last quarter of a century, he schemed and enacted his strategic plan. Based on the book called The Foundations of Geopolitics and published in Russia in 1997 - a carefully orchestrated and directed horror film has been produced. The movie theme is the destruction of the United States and the principal key actor is Donald Trump. It won't win any Oscars YET, because (1) this movie is still unrecognized by most Americans, and (2) the ill-informed Trumpers across our nation are the support actors.
Trump's dangerous and many-sided destructiveness includes unprecedented ways to influence and control his followers. Unbeknown to these followers, the person who's ideology they are following is not Trump, but Putin. They are not saving America, but destroying it.
The shadow cast by Putin over the landscape of American democracy, and his influence and control over Trump grows larger and darker by the moment. Our democracy hangs in the balance.
Steve this is a brilliant essay. I just want to comment on one subtle aspect, the relationship of knowledge, understanding, and doing... because I see it as a framework to aid our thinking in any realm.
We randomly get, and seek out knowledge/facts. We then take that information (I'll use the analogy of a clothes dryer) toss it around with other information and the heat of our emotions/desires until we understand relationship. When we understand we can do something new based upon What We Value. So: Knowledge in > Understanding > New ability.
45 values only "me." He does not care what happens to "we" or the "many." Thus the results are evil. Obama demonstrated caring for himself, others, and multitudes. Thus the results are good and honorable.
What I tried to say was, we want to increase ableness, through understanding the information we gather. Knowledge in itself is inadequate... we've all met the highly educated person who can't hold a job or function in life, as an extreme of what I'm saying.
The stereotype of the absent-minded professor is often all too true. I know, I was married to one for 25 years. He was at the top of his very narrow field (a form of applied mathematics) and couldn't remember to take out the garbage. More important, he completely forgot to file his tax returns for two years. Luckily he forgot this when he was firmly an ex.
"Understanding" goes much deeper than "knowledge". Excellent. Thanks.
Thanks Lisa, That's what I'm trying to say... we are really seeking understanding... it is the transforming agent.
Sharp of you to hone in on the theme of knowledge, as a scholar did it just jump off the screen to you? I didn't pick up on that until you pointed it out, just enjoyed the variety and piqued my interest in the movies. Like Sharon, I really want to make time to see a few! As usual, waiting for heads to explode and someone's knickers to get in a knot over Hollywood once again highlighting uncomfortable history. Slava Ukraini
You reminded me, I absolutely must make more time and more room for movies. Politics has invaded and taken over and it's time to put a stop to that.
So glad that there are more than 1 of me. 3 weeks ago I decided to make a list of 10 movies that I would watch as soon as they became available on cable or streaming. I’ve watched 3 of them already: Anatomy of a fall, Oppenheimer and Memory, the latter not included in any Oscar nominations. Indeed it feels good to get away from the non-stop drumming of American politics and I’m so glad that I’ve rekindled my affection for good movies.
Oh how I can relate.
Buckle up, good people, because we're about to witness a puppet show that puts Punch and Judy to shame. In this twisted theater of American politics, where truth is just a casualty, left bleeding on the stage by the marionettes of grandiose fiction, we find ourselves teetering on the brink of a future so dark, it makes the Brothers Grimm look like bedtime storytellers.
Enter Donald Trump, the puppet master extraordinaire, pulling the strings of his fellow autocrat, Viktor Orban. They prance across the gaudy, gold-plated stage of Mar-a-Lago like a pair of demented Pinocchios, their noses growing with every lie they spin. It's a sickening display of mutual admiration, a duet between two puppets who get their kicks from stomping on the very principles of democracy they're supposed to represent.
But here's the thing: this isn't just some twisted children's tale. This is a full-blown assault on the very foundations of our society. When Trump proclaims his love for "the poorly educated," he's not just playing to the cheap seats. He's declaring war on knowledge itself, on the very concept of enlightenment that has cut humanity's strings and allowed us to think for ourselves.
And now, as the 2024 election looms on the horizon like the final act of a Shakespearean tragedy, we've got a choice to make. Are we going to sit back and watch as the curtain falls on democracy, smothering the last gasps of freedom? Or are we going to stand up, grab the puppet strings, and yank them back from the hands of the autocrats?
Because make no mistake, this is a battle for the very soul of America. It's a choice between a future where truth matters, where knowledge is valued, and where the power of the people is the only script that matters - or a future where the puppet master's word is law, and the masses are nothing more than marionettes, dancing to the tune of tyranny.
As Steven Beschloss has so eloquently asked, what's it going to be, America? Are we going to let the puppets of autocracy and ignorance take their final bow? Or are we going to storm the stage, armed with the unshakable conviction that truth and democracy will always triumph in the end?
The curtain is rising, and the stakes couldn't be higher. It's time to choose sides, to take center stage, and to fight like our lives depend on it. Because in this twisted puppet show of politics, the only thing that matters is the pursuit of truth - and the courage to cut the strings of those who would manipulate it.
As Cicada said, well stated Gloria. I want to point
out one thing though. The enemy of democracy
isn’t just Donald Trump and others like him. It’s
also the republican party. The GOP enabled and
facilitated all of it.
Even if the GOP is teetering on the brink of bankruptcy—thanks to Trump—they are going to throw everything they’ve got into the upcoming election and there are plenty of millionaires/billionaires willing to help bankroll their planned government takeover.
All of the sad displays of naked greed are the foundation, the bedrock, for the GOP’s house of cards. And like a house of cards, it will all blow over at some point. The November elections are their
best chance to grab the brass ring after 30-40
years of planning and maneuvering. So as you said
Gloria, everybody should buckle up and plan for
the worst.
My personal belief is that Dems will prevail, but republicans aren’t going to quietly slink away.
They’ll create chaos if things aren’t going well
for them and then they’ll demand a do-over
because of the chaos they created. It’s our job
to make sure they don’t get away with it.
Historically, Dems have walked away from
situations like Bush v Gore for the good of the
country. But we can’t afford to do that now since
the stakes are astronomical.
Thank you for the thoughtful response. This, this right here is why I’m here.
Well stated, Gloria. Thank you.
I’ve often thought of a sporting event when pondering the current political scene. Being such a prevalent pastime of American culture. Where one chooses a “team/side” and sticks with it no matter what. Cheerleading no matter the consequence, for that which serves one’s own agenda.
Many of us can be seen as “side-liners”, waiting for our chance to be in the game. Seemingly waiting for a “coach”(conscience) to tell us it’s time. Or, perhaps we’re in the bleachers, cheering and bellowing to one’s content for, or against, whichever team suits our beliefs, without any substantial repercussion. After all, there’s nothing really physical, yet, with this game we play.
Then, I suppose, there are those who aren’t the least bit interested in this game. No participation on their part seems to affect them personally, so they imagine. One’s struggle for survival is more relevant. Listening and validating the persistent rantings and bickering of supposed “leaders” whose responsibilities ought to include making life’s “pursuit of happiness” just a little bit easier for them, seems futile. All too often, these leaders/team players have an agenda of their own, “winning”, that doesn’t seem to include them in the least.
If only the individual could see the bigger “Game” at play here. Where Truth, Democracy, Common Good, and such lofty ideals, are Global in reach. And, this American “game”, is to be taken seriously. For it is NOT just another sporting event! The Ideals that are being tested here are not intended to be selfish or narcissistic in nature. We’re dealing with Kindred Spirits now. That which unites Persons of Good Will the world over.
And, Knowledge, in itself, without Love, is futile indeed. We need to remind ourselves of this now and then. I am Hopeful.
Thank you! I'm smiling as I read this.
I enjoyed this year's Academy Awards more than any in the past few years. I believe you've identified the reason..
I have to admit, however, that Trump's social media post, Kimmel's handling of it, and the resulting hilarity provided the cherry on top of the treat.
An unusual, but illuminating assessment of how our current cinema reflects our better angels, and yet also shines a light on the worst of what we do as people. Knowledge, wisdom, truth, facts, are all things we should seek to expand in our personal lives and society. But we also need introspection, to acknowledge the consequences of what we do, no matter the intent, but see how others may use and abuse new knowledge.
I wish you had mentioned “20 Days in Mariupol” as it shows both the best and worst and the strength to continue on and fight for what is right regardless of the cost to us personally. It is a lesson in grit, determination, and perseverance in the face of unimaginable destruction and impending evil. We should all pay heed to that here in the US as we fight for our survival as a nation at the ballot box.
Haven’t seen Mariupol yet, but I will. Thx.
It is tough to watch, but necessary. This is what we could face domestically if Trump would win in November.
I just watched “Anthropoid”, based on a true story about Czech Resistance fighters’ dangerous mission in Prague during WWII. Cillian Murphy stars, and he is brilliant. But a grim and sometimes gruesome reminder, also, of the unabashed cruelty and violence of autocratic systems. We don’t want to even imagine it happening here, but many of us are seeing the signs. I truly hope voting in great numbers will succeed and not be overturned in a coup. Project 2025 needs a LOT more media attention .
Naima, thanks for the recommendation on Anthropoid. You are right, most have no clue how close we are to the precipice of a cruel, autocratic regime here in the US. Channeling my inner Sinclair Lewis in “It Can Happen Here.”
Most people I know cannot stomach the violence and that is understandable.I happened to find the actual entire script for the movie here: (this exchange between Lenka and Josef struck me especially having come from a military family and having a father who gave his life in WWII. I just joined "stopthecoup2025.org by the way. People need to know about this!!
JOSEF:
I think it’s my turn to apologize
to you about the other morning.
You were right to be angry. We
should have told you what was at risk.
To give you the choice to walk away.
LENKA:
(ironic hufff) Walk away?
Opinions are divided as to what constitutes resistance.
Many have got used to German rule.
Many are just scared.
JOSEF:
But not you.
LENKA’s turn to give JOSEF a silent glance.
JOSEF:
You know your way around a pistol.
LENKA:
My father was a captain in the army.
Wanted sons but got three daughters.
He and many others were arrested in
‘39 when Germany took control of Czechoslovakia.
When Heydrich first took power here
last September, his first order was
to execute all the prisoners.
JOSEF:
I’m sorry.
LENKA:
My father was among five thousand
of the best military and academic
minds shot in the first week by Heydrich.
Afterwards, people started to call
Heydrich the butcher of Prague
.So, for me, there is no walking
away, Heydrich is worth the risk.
That is powerful and unfortunately true. We do not hear much about the extermination of the best and brightest in Czechoslovakia in 1939-40. Events such as the Katyn massacre in Poland have captured more attention. But I can imagine that happening here if Trump is elected.
Imagining the unimaginable. I don't want anyone to be surprised by having to be detained in a "camp", injured or even killed because they weren't paying attention. Not even those who have been duped by the Right Wing into believing that Autocracy is going to be better for THEM than democracy. Such ignorance is terribly sad though. Solidarity, mutual respect, dignity, human rights: all these are on the line and we all CAN do something. Thank you for paying attention!
I really appreciate your pointing out this theme, even though I haven't had time to actually watch movies in a long time. I do wish people would search for knowledge before they start spouting opinions.
My current bête noire is the number of people speculating on Chubb's ties to Russia (re the E Jean Carroll bond). Come on folks, learn how sureties operate. If it took, as is usual, full cash collateral, its issuing of the bond is risk free to Chubb and its shareholders and is a slam dunk decision that most sureties would take, given the premium. (Remember, it is likely to be over a million PER YEAR).
Surety isn't understood by most Americans, and most Americans haven't had to care they don't know about it--until now. I just read extensive comments on a story on the bond, and they tend to go all out conspiracy theory about Chubb itself.
The danger of undue influence regarding this bond is who provided the collateral. That's a legitimate concern, but it is far more likely to be any of the abundant home grown billionaires who want to see tax breaks continue. Focus on the likely, not the conspiracy, once you understand how the whole thing works.
Sorry for the soap box. It's just that forming opinions in ignorance isn't limited to the Right Wing. So anything that causes people to increase their knowledge and understanding is a plus for me--even if it is movies I don't have time to see myself.
Amen!
Thanks Mr. B! Nice read on a chilly Monday morning!
Absolutely brilliant piece, Steven. Many thanks for the insight, the synthesis, and connecting all the dots.
Thank you kindly, John.
Thank you!
Excellent excellent read today. Thank you!
Always excellent read. I look forward to new postings.
Questions in my mind about media's handling of the two presidential candidates;
One can do no right, the other...oh well..
Why is this done by the likes of NYT, WaPo etc?
Why when DJT talks negatively about immigrants the reporting not start with his two immigrant wives- one ex, He complains about chain migration, his in-laws came under chain immigration?
Why when reporting about border, crime, and "illegal.." do the responsible reporting not juxtapose real statistics to provide perspective?
Would appreciate your setting my head straight about this and similar nagging questions.
Thanks,
nikhilesh
nikhilesh.agarwal@gmail. com
Brilliant newsletter, Steven! I nearly felt that I was reading meaningful classical literature -the kind with timeless themes, metaphors, truths, and cause for reflection. We need more literature and great essays to be taught in our schools. Thank you.
Thank you, Lisa.
My father and I lived in Osage county from when I was in 5th grade until I graduated from college. I never once heard any mention of the killings of the Osage for their oil headrights. I imagine there were plenty of people in town who benefitted from that, even if they were's the killers. There was so much money there back then that they called Pawhuska the Paris of America. I haven't read the book, but will watch the movie.
Considering what Melania did to the Rose Garden, I don't know why anyone would give her flowers. As for trump, he could stand up there and tell America I intend to be a dictator beyond day one, everyone will do as I say, there will be no more elections, no more voting, I am The Word. And those who follow him would clap and cheer, and NAZI flags would swing in the air. There is only one way to be rid of trump. I won't say it, but no doubt all of us have thought it. It has been done by CIA help in other countries. Even our JFK tried it with Castro. Just think of the change if that briefcase had gotten Hitler when it exploded. Is it wrong to think it, wish it? I don't know. Him for a country. ????
As for the pursuit of knowledge, the answer is better teachers. And how to get them? Salaries. There isn't an Oppenheimer or an Einstein out there who didn't first have teachers. Yet, such people go on to fame and riches while teacher tries to live on $50,000 a year. Many, tenured, just hang in there till they can retire. Others switch to Ed. because they couldn't make it in Business. Although money needs to be spent on school buildings and other tangible things, it has been proven that it isn't how much per student is spent but the quality of the teacher.
But it gets complicated. That means higher property taxes, higher salaries on and on. So many problems. So few solutions.
While the American media spotlight, ever enthralled by the sensationalism of the moment, remains fixated on Trump and his legal woes, other crucial and overlooked dangers continue to unfold in the United States.
First, we have about half our country responding to Trump like zombies - brainwashed followers of the Republican Party (similar to members of the Jim Jones cult), who were unsuspectedly caught in coercive control techniques that Trump uses daily to influence his followers. Second, we have a presidential candidate who sold his soul and our country to the Russians at least ten years prior to sleeping in the White House after 2016. (From Democracy to Democrazy by Graham) Third, the influence of Putin's strategies quietly attempts to reshape the trajectory of American politics and American lives. We see that happening NOW.
This current political race is not just between Democrats and Republicans, but between a decent, hard-working, public servant who has successfully served our country for almost 50 years. His constituents re-elected him for 36 years as a Senator - he must have been doing something right!!! His opponent is a man who has been compromised by Russia, who is a convicted rapist and a serial sexual predator, convicted of fraud with mounds of solid documented evidence and proof, and is now facing 91 criminal charges. His speeches are filled with revenge, hatred, defamation of others, and with no discernable ideology.
Americans were duped decades ago into believing that Russia is no longer our enemy and the world is living in peaceful coexistence. Yes, the Cold War did not die - a revelation for many Americans. We let our guard down, while Russia rebuilt their economy, their military, and their weaponry. Then in 2000, Putin became the second President of Russia. He instantly converted Russia from a communist-socialist form of government to a dictatorship. He is a man who spent his entire life as a KGB spy, and blames the United States for the downfall of the USSR. He wants REVENGE.
Over the last quarter of a century, he schemed and enacted his strategic plan. Based on the book called The Foundations of Geopolitics and published in Russia in 1997 - a carefully orchestrated and directed horror film has been produced. The movie theme is the destruction of the United States and the principal key actor is Donald Trump. It won't win any Oscars YET, because (1) this movie is still unrecognized by most Americans, and (2) the ill-informed Trumpers across our nation are the support actors.
Trump's dangerous and many-sided destructiveness includes unprecedented ways to influence and control his followers. Unbeknown to these followers, the person who's ideology they are following is not Trump, but Putin. They are not saving America, but destroying it.
The shadow cast by Putin over the landscape of American democracy, and his influence and control over Trump grows larger and darker by the moment. Our democracy hangs in the balance.
Elizabeth, www.democrazy2020.org