Daisy
Originally uploaded by paynehollow.
Sunday, August 27, 2006
Saturday, August 26, 2006
If Not War, Then What?
As I post this, I've been considering whether or not to remove some bloggers from my blogroll. I am always thrilled to speak with those with whom I have disagreements and frequently bounce back and forth between here and there.
However, here lately, some of those linked have been endorsing war crimes, insofar as they're seriously endorsing the use of nuclear weapons on civilian populations. This, to me, is traitorous and, frankly, just plain insane talk. I understand where they're coming from - these nuclear holocaust advocates are afraid that if we don't do something, then "they" (terrorists, communists, boogeymen of whatever sort) will think we're paper tigers and attack us first.
I have no doubt that those who are endorsing war crimes are doing so thinking of their countryfolk, because they live in fear that if we "don't do anything" then They will attack us.
But by so doing, they are indicating not only that they are endorsing war crimes, but they're seeming to indicate that they're letting their fear make them crazy. And I am unsure as to whether such folk are the best to communicate with or to give any credence to. They clearly represent a minority in the US and their ideas will never take hold because, as they like to point out, the citizens of the US are not monsters. Still, I don't want to be connected with their dangerously delusional ideas.
But I will leave them on the list to keep the lines of communication open and to let their own fear and terror speak for itself. Sometimes, nothing speaks so eloquently against a horrific idea so much as letting those who'd endorse it speak their minds.
On the flip side of things, Michael currently has an outstanding series of essays going on Peace and War topics, including this piece on Just Peacemaking - it is one answer to the question: If not war, then what? Many of those who live in fear of "doing nothing," ought to read it and understand that, as I have to repeat constantly, no one is talking about doing nothing. There are quite pragmatic, proven and workable solutions out there that, even if you don't want to give up war as a possible tool, ought to be considered if you truly want war as a last resort.
However, here lately, some of those linked have been endorsing war crimes, insofar as they're seriously endorsing the use of nuclear weapons on civilian populations. This, to me, is traitorous and, frankly, just plain insane talk. I understand where they're coming from - these nuclear holocaust advocates are afraid that if we don't do something, then "they" (terrorists, communists, boogeymen of whatever sort) will think we're paper tigers and attack us first.
I have no doubt that those who are endorsing war crimes are doing so thinking of their countryfolk, because they live in fear that if we "don't do anything" then They will attack us.
But by so doing, they are indicating not only that they are endorsing war crimes, but they're seeming to indicate that they're letting their fear make them crazy. And I am unsure as to whether such folk are the best to communicate with or to give any credence to. They clearly represent a minority in the US and their ideas will never take hold because, as they like to point out, the citizens of the US are not monsters. Still, I don't want to be connected with their dangerously delusional ideas.
But I will leave them on the list to keep the lines of communication open and to let their own fear and terror speak for itself. Sometimes, nothing speaks so eloquently against a horrific idea so much as letting those who'd endorse it speak their minds.
On the flip side of things, Michael currently has an outstanding series of essays going on Peace and War topics, including this piece on Just Peacemaking - it is one answer to the question: If not war, then what? Many of those who live in fear of "doing nothing," ought to read it and understand that, as I have to repeat constantly, no one is talking about doing nothing. There are quite pragmatic, proven and workable solutions out there that, even if you don't want to give up war as a possible tool, ought to be considered if you truly want war as a last resort.
Friday, August 25, 2006
Core Liberal Tenets, cont'd...
Michael suggested that one source for a list of core progressive/liberal values would be the Principles Project. I've posted their list of four fundamental principles below. What do you think?
We believe in defending dignity
"All people are created equal" is not just a fact - it's a call to action. All people have the right to lead their personal lives in accordance with their own beliefs, free from imposition or monitoring by others.
All people have a right to the basic necessities required to lead dignified lives and pursue happiness.
We believe in strengthening democracy
It is the shared responsibility of a nation to ensure each citizen's freedom, security and equality. Through government, we honor our responsibility to promote the common good.
Governments must be transparent, accessible and open to all citizens who wish to oversee its workings and share in its benefits.
America must work to enhance the democratic process by ensuring an educated citizenry, equal opportunity for influence, honest public debate, competitive elections and robust civic participation.
A healthy democracy requires tireless vigilance against corruption and abuses of power, and a government that is accountable to its people.
We believe in promoting progress
We must promote innovation and entrpreneurship, cultivate the arts and sciences, and ensure a quality education for everyone. When we invest in individual potential, the benefits are shared by all.
America must continue to be a welcoming home to all people. We believe that diversity of faith, culture and perspective enriches our nation.
America must keep a watchful eye on the economy to ensure fairness, transparency and genuinue opportunity for all.
Each generation has a duty to protect and improve those resources we hold in common - our community spaces, our public institutions and our natural environment.
We believe in embracing leadership
America's security requires an effective military and a commitment to enduring alliances, but we must remember that America's true power is found in its wisdom as well as its strength.
Our security and prosperity rely on the security and prosperity of people throughout the world. By helping others, we will help ourselves.
America must join with other nations to build global institutions that protect the vulnerable, promote democratic self-gov't, and improve the health and welfare of all people throughout the world.
America must never suspend its belief in democracy and human rights in the pursuit of its global objectives. Noble ends require nothing short of noble means.
We believe in defending dignity
"All people are created equal" is not just a fact - it's a call to action. All people have the right to lead their personal lives in accordance with their own beliefs, free from imposition or monitoring by others.
All people have a right to the basic necessities required to lead dignified lives and pursue happiness.
We believe in strengthening democracy
It is the shared responsibility of a nation to ensure each citizen's freedom, security and equality. Through government, we honor our responsibility to promote the common good.
Governments must be transparent, accessible and open to all citizens who wish to oversee its workings and share in its benefits.
America must work to enhance the democratic process by ensuring an educated citizenry, equal opportunity for influence, honest public debate, competitive elections and robust civic participation.
A healthy democracy requires tireless vigilance against corruption and abuses of power, and a government that is accountable to its people.
We believe in promoting progress
We must promote innovation and entrpreneurship, cultivate the arts and sciences, and ensure a quality education for everyone. When we invest in individual potential, the benefits are shared by all.
America must continue to be a welcoming home to all people. We believe that diversity of faith, culture and perspective enriches our nation.
America must keep a watchful eye on the economy to ensure fairness, transparency and genuinue opportunity for all.
Each generation has a duty to protect and improve those resources we hold in common - our community spaces, our public institutions and our natural environment.
We believe in embracing leadership
America's security requires an effective military and a commitment to enduring alliances, but we must remember that America's true power is found in its wisdom as well as its strength.
Our security and prosperity rely on the security and prosperity of people throughout the world. By helping others, we will help ourselves.
America must join with other nations to build global institutions that protect the vulnerable, promote democratic self-gov't, and improve the health and welfare of all people throughout the world.
America must never suspend its belief in democracy and human rights in the pursuit of its global objectives. Noble ends require nothing short of noble means.
Thursday, August 24, 2006
Strum Away, David Schnaufer
Strum Away, David Schnaufer
Originally uploaded by paynehollow.
David Schnaufer, a musician who revived the use of the
dulcimer in country music and taught the instrument to many students, died Wednesday of cancer at a local hospice. He was 53.
Schnaufer recorded with The Judds, Johnny Cash, June Carter Cash, Kathy Mattea, Mark Knopfler, Emmylou Harris, Chet Atkins and many others on dulcimer, a gentle stringed instrument used in Appalachia since the 1800s, derived from zithers brought into North America by German immigrants in the 17th and 18th centuries.
"Anybody can make beautiful music in five minutes of playing the dulcimer," Schnaufer often said. "It’s the simplest of all the stringed instruments, but can be as complex as anything else.
Photo from Vanderbilt University, where Schnaufer taught
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
What are the Core Liberal Tenets?
You may recall that last September and October I did a series of essays discussing Classical Conservative Doctrine. These points are readily available by doing a google search. Russell Kirk has famously provided Ten Conservative Tenets, but there are others out there and they generally jibe with each other.
And I've posted some other comments since then, relating how I'm fairly conservative, at least according to the classic traits given by Kirk and others. At the same time, I recognize that I'm generally considered to be Left of the board by many, which is fine. I'm not afraid of the Liberal label. Whatever that is.
And that's my point.
When I've gone out and tried to find a set of corresponding Liberal Tenets, I've come up empty. And so I'm opening the questions to anyone out there interested in responding.
1. Is anyone aware of a generally accepted list of Core Liberal Tenets?
And, if not...
2. How would you define the Ten Commandments of Liberalism?
To be clear, I'm not talking about which issues liberals tend to support or oppose (ie, anti-war, pro-abortion, environmental issues, etc). I'm talking about the core beliefs behind liberal reasoning.
For a reference point, I'll remind you of Kirk's Ten Conservative Tenets:
1. An enduring moral order
2. Custom, convention, and continuity
3. Standing on the shoulders of giants
4. Prudence is chief among virtues
5. The preservation of differences
6. Resisting the utopian and anarchic impulse
7. Freedom and private property are related
8. Voluntary community vs. involuntary collectivism
9. Power and passion require restraint
10. Permanence and change must be recognized and reconciled
Anyone got any help out there?
And I've posted some other comments since then, relating how I'm fairly conservative, at least according to the classic traits given by Kirk and others. At the same time, I recognize that I'm generally considered to be Left of the board by many, which is fine. I'm not afraid of the Liberal label. Whatever that is.
And that's my point.
When I've gone out and tried to find a set of corresponding Liberal Tenets, I've come up empty. And so I'm opening the questions to anyone out there interested in responding.
1. Is anyone aware of a generally accepted list of Core Liberal Tenets?
And, if not...
2. How would you define the Ten Commandments of Liberalism?
To be clear, I'm not talking about which issues liberals tend to support or oppose (ie, anti-war, pro-abortion, environmental issues, etc). I'm talking about the core beliefs behind liberal reasoning.
For a reference point, I'll remind you of Kirk's Ten Conservative Tenets:
1. An enduring moral order
2. Custom, convention, and continuity
3. Standing on the shoulders of giants
4. Prudence is chief among virtues
5. The preservation of differences
6. Resisting the utopian and anarchic impulse
7. Freedom and private property are related
8. Voluntary community vs. involuntary collectivism
9. Power and passion require restraint
10. Permanence and change must be recognized and reconciled
Anyone got any help out there?
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
Whence the Great Divide?
Daylily
Originally uploaded by paynehollow.
Father Neo recently asked some questions about why our nation seems so divided. There appears to be an ever-increasing chasm between what we might call the Left and the Right (although the terms are fluid and sometimes not useful) – is this divide real? Is it serious? Why is it there?
These are good questions to ask. My response:
1. It is on the surface, a good thing that we have these differences between us. We have this chasm because we are striving to oppose injustice, oppression – in short, what I’ll call “evil.”
The Bush-types out there perceive there to be a great threat from “terrorists” which some have defined as “Islamo-fascists.” And there ARE those out there who’d harm innocent people and standing in opposition to them is a good thing.
Those who distrust Bush and his invasion of Iraq do so because they believe Bush’s actions are possibly illegal and that they encourage, not discourage terrorism. And standing in opposition to that which is illegal and which would encourage terrorism is also good thing.
And so, this desire to set our faces against evil is a good, wholesome desire. BUT…
2. From there, too many of us have decided that because we’re standing against evil, those who disagree with us must be standing in support of evil.
3. And from there, it becomes relatively easy for many of us to speak ill of They That Support Evil, to twist their words (“He said he doesn’t trust Bush’s leadership. He obviously hates America!” “She said that it’s a good idea to try to understand WHY the terrorists are acting like they do. She obviously supports terrorism!”) - EVEN if the twisted words are patently false – and to generally demonize the enemy.
4. Once we’ve accepted that the “other side” are not merely brothers and sisters with whom we have a disagreement over vital issues, but they are in fact monsters or monster-supporters, then they become less than human.
5. Once the enemy is less than human, it becomes all that much easier to further twist their words and demonize them and even want to see them stopped, even with violence, EVEN with deadly violence. EVEN deadly violence that kills innocent bystanders in the process.
And so, even though the initial starting place of opposing evil is a good, if we allow that opposition to begin to allow us to demonize the other side, then we have taken steps down a twisted path that can lead to terrorism, that can lead to evil, that can lead to becoming that very thing which we had hoped to oppose to begin with.
Standing in opposition to evil is vital, but HOW we do so is more vital, yet.
What say ye?
Sunday, August 13, 2006
test
After a year and a half of blogging, I've begun to try to find out if I can post videos. Turns out, I can. Above and below are a couple of test runs.
For those who've asked to hear my family playing music, the video above features my wife, Donna, on hammered dulcimer and me on guitar playing Whiskey Before Breakfast. We once played this on a Sunday morning for special music at our previous, more traditional Baptist church. We called it, "Communion Before Sunrise" so as to avoid any furrowed brows...
For those who've asked to hear my family playing music, the video above features my wife, Donna, on hammered dulcimer and me on guitar playing Whiskey Before Breakfast. We once played this on a Sunday morning for special music at our previous, more traditional Baptist church. We called it, "Communion Before Sunrise" so as to avoid any furrowed brows...
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)