Chinese government tries to target bloggers

Tags: clipping ∙ United States ∙ Original Vigil ∙ Cuba ∙ Egypt ∙ Tunisia ∙ Reporters Without Borders ∙ blogging ∙ free press ∙ Robert Menard ∙ Syria ∙ Mesud Hamid ∙ equal rights

It makes you wonder what all those repressive nations are really afraid of, doesn't it?

Tags: internet ∙ China ∙ Original Vigil ∙ censorship ∙ mass medium ∙ John Gilmore ∙ libertarian ∙ Sun Microsystems ∙ Time magazine ∙ distributed network ∙ connectivity ∙ information ∙ restrictions ∙ clipping

A new category and a story about defying government authority with the internet

Tags: China ∙ internet ∙ Original Vigil ∙ censorship ∙ OpenNet Initiative ∙ Harvard Law School ∙ University of Toronto ∙ Cambridge ∙ Oxford ∙ Berkman Center for Internet and Society ∙ John Palfrey ∙ clipping

This is a page from the original version of Pagan Vigil. There are some formatting differences. Originally published at www.paganvigil.com/C1415225799/E20070313134228

Chinese government tries to target bloggers

Some will tell you that this article is bad news.

I don't agree.

What this tells me is despite ever increasing efforts to control the internet in China, it is slipping from government control and into the hands of individuals.

And the government is afraid. Very afraid.

Every time I look at articles about the internet and world wide web in China, I am amazed. It's self-organizing, capable of withstanding terrible tyranny, and incredibly adaptive.

The Chinese government can't put the genie back in the bottle.

Fun to watch them try though.

From shore to shore, let freedom ring.

Posted: Tue - March 13, 2007 at 01:42 PM

Tags: China ∙ internet ∙ Original Vigil ∙ goverment ∙ Chinese government ∙ clipping

Tags: Original Vigil

This is a page from the original version of Pagan Vigil. There are some formatting differences. Originally published at www.paganvigil.com/C1415225799/E20070210153538

A new category and a story about defying government authority with the internet

““Zhang's ban, which was reported by several Chinese newspapers, was regarded as extreme even by the censorship authorities in Beijing. But it was emblematic of the Communist Party's determination to retain control of what this country's 1.3 billion people see, hear and read despite the vast changes in other realms brought on by economic reform over the last two decades.

Ever since Mao Zedong brought the party to power in 1949, information, art and entertainment have been regarded here as government property, distributed to the public -- or not -- according to what party officials think best. But in recent years, as the number of online Chinese climbed to 137 million by the end of 2006, the Internet has challenged this power in many ways. Zhang's experience in Gedong dramatized how robust the challenge has become.

Eager to speed modernization, China's leaders have professed a desire to see people use the Web widely to seek knowledge and economic advantage. But they also have expressed determination to keep it under party control. The goal, they have said, is to keep Chinese away from sites deemed unfit because of pornographic or politically sensitive content -- or, in the case of Fangshan County, because they waste teenagers' time with frivolous games.

"Whether we can cope with the Internet is a matter that affects the development of socialist culture, the security of information and the stability of the state," President Hu Jintao said at a Politburo study session last month, according to the state-controlled press. Hu, who also heads the party, said the solution is not to deter development of the Web but to "nurture a healthy online culture."

Reporters Without Borders, the Paris-based media watchdog group, said Hu's government has deployed "armies of informants and cyber-police" and sophisticated computer programs to prevent Chinese Internet users from connecting with sites the party disapproves of or reading postings that stray from political orthodoxy. Sifting the acceptable from the unacceptable costs China "an enormous amount," the group said, without providing a specific number.””

The kids are finding a way. It's games today, but tomorrow it will be political.

And if the kids are finding a way and there are enough of them to get attention, there are plenty of adults who you haven't heard about who are networking and doing their best to undermine all the restrictions.

Let freedom ring.

Posted: Sat - February 10, 2007 at 03:35 PM

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ goverment ∙ authority ∙ internet ∙ freedom ∙ Firefly ∙ Babylon 5 ∙ China ∙ Gedong ∙ Zhang ∙ Reporters Without Borders ∙ clipping

This is a page from the original version of Pagan Vigil. There are some formatting differences. Originally published at www.paganvigil.com/C127135145/E20100903114934

Rogert Ebert wants critics of Obama to "Put up or shut up"

Funny how that only works if there is a liberal President

Roger Ebert stepped over the line.

Here's the thing. Just because someone happens to be President doesn't mean that he shouldn't be criticized. He should be. Loudly. Publicly.

But for pity's sake pick the battles.

The fact is that there are those who lambast both Glenn Beck and Barak Obama (all hail the Imperious Leader, may his toenails never shrink!).

If it were a Republican President, Ebert would be at the head of the pack criticizing him. Oh wait, that already happened. Numerous times.

Sometimes I really hate being proven right again and again.

Now that it's "their guy," liberals like Ebert don't want anyone criticizing the President. And they will go out of their way to paint the most public opposition as "nuts."

Just like happened with conservatives and Bush.

Me, I say that the problems start because government tries to control too much of your life.

Yes, elected officials should be criticized. Loudly. Especially if they break their own rules and promises.

And if that doesn't work, just remember that the rule of law works both ways. If the "elite" won't abide by it, there is no reason you have to submit.

Posted: Fri - September 3, 2010 at 11:49 AM

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ Roger Ebert ∙ President ∙ criticism ∙ Barack Obama ∙ Glen Beck ∙ liberals ∙ elected officials

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Stop me if you've heard this one about the IRS Andover facility

Congresscritters pressure the IRS to waste your money to keep tax parasites employed. I know that is harsh but that is exactly what is happening.

TJICistan linked to this Lew Rockwell article. Usually I don't link to Lew Rockwell articles. When I read them, I take them with a grain of salt. And this particular piece has a definite anti-government bias ("tax subsidized chair-moisteners").

However, here are the facts.

The Andover IRS facility was slated to be closed, under pressure from the New England Congresscritters, that is no longer true.

The renovation of the Andover facility focuses on frills.

Representative Tsongas did suggest that the 1400 IRS employees slated to be laid off be used in make work programs.

So, let's summarize. The IRS was scheduled to shut down a processing facility and lay off the workers. Under political pressure from a few Congress people (not a vote of Congress, but simply a handful of politicos throwing their weight around), the shut down was delayed and the workers were given make work because keeping Federal agents employed is more important than the private free market. Meanwhile, the building is undergoing a lavish refurbishment.

So the FedGovs are renovating a building housing employees doing makework but whose main job is to collect and process taxes so the Federal government can operate…

…spending money keeping unneeded government employees in a newly upgraded facility.

We've crossed a line.

We're now paying government agents to collect money for their own employment in a very fancy building that is being renovated by that same money.

It's hard NOT to be anti-government after reading the stories for all of that.

Posted: Sun - September 5, 2010 at 01:09 PM

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ Andover ∙ IRS ∙ facility ∙ TJICistan ∙ LewRockwell.com ∙ makework ∙ anti-government bias ∙ Congress ∙ Paul Tsongas ∙ FedGovs

Something they can't control, even if it's not enough to take control away

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ spends too much money ∙ insanity ∙ Standard Approved Government Solution ∙ FedGovs

Demonstrating that certain modern liberals don't understand economics

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ AlterNet ∙ classic ∙ retirement income ∙ cyberwarfare ∙ public schools ∙ reform ∙ control ∙ private sector ∙ distrust ∙ promises ∙ contract law ∙ net neutrality ∙ wasting cash ∙ corporate accountability ∙ spends too much money ∙ class distinctions ∙ spending cuts ∙ taxes ∙ health care providers ∙ Federal government ∙ insurance companies ∙ pharmaceutical companies ∙ Medicare ∙ Inferior Golden Rule ∙ single payer system ∙ FedGovs ∙ George Soros ∙ DNC ∙ Barack Obama ∙ race card ∙ Social Security ∙ Robert Murdoch ∙ Tea Party agenda ∙ David Koch ∙ decentralized ∙ Glen Beck ∙ Tea Party ∙ LewRockwell.com ∙ bias ∙ usefulness ∙ mutual ∙ voluntary ∙ exchange ∙ consenting activities ∙ consenting adults ∙ regulation ∙ license ∙ legislature ∙ economic disparity ∙ KYFHO ∙ individual citizens

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About the O'Donnell witchcraft thing

What does it say about Bill Maer? - updated

Gather 'round, friends and neighbors. I'm about to tell you what a Real Live Pagan® thinks about Bill Maher's "witch hunt."

The story is not that Christine O'Donnell dabbled in witchcraft during high school and decided it wasn't for her. Regardless of your personal beliefs, it's still about personal choice and personal responsibility. O'Donnell made her choice.

No, the story is that Bill Maher is okay with witchcraft until he can use it to embarrass someone who doesn't share his politics.

Think very carefully about the implications of that.

Maher exemplifies a certain liberal/progressive mindset. According to the "grand accepted wisdom," minorities are okay as long as they do what they are told and don't get in the way of their betters. In my experience, that extends to minority faiths. We're supposed to be on call for the dog and pony shows, but not to make too much fuss otherwise.

And if you think I'm off base, go watch some more of Maher's show.

For extra credit, see how many other high profile media liberals share the same attitudes.

Oh, Jason Pitzl-Waters of the Wild Hunt Blog gives his opinion here, and does a roundup of Pagan reactions here.

Update - I left out one word and implied that I knew O'Donnell. I don't, and up until this mess I hadn't followed the Delaware race. Blame it on chronic insomnia and limited time. My fingers don't always keep up with my brain, and I overlook typos when I am rushed.

Posted: Mon - September 20, 2010 at 02:23 PM

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ pagan ∙ Bill Maher ∙ witch hunt ∙ Christine O'Donnel ∙ witchcraft ∙ choice ∙ responsibility ∙ embarrass ∙ liberal mindset ∙ dog-&-pony

Odd tactic from the Grand and Glorious Imperious Leader

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ Barack Obama ∙ Mexico ∙ United States ∙ 1810 ∙ 1776 ∙ La Raza ∙ Imperious Leader

When there is no "least bad"

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ none of the above ∙ Arizona ∙ least bad ∙ Jan Brewer ∙ Terry Goddard ∙ SEIU

The FCC sneaks in the back door on the cable companies

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ Stephen Colber ∙ Congress ∙ Truman Committee ∙ immigration reform ∙ Democrats ∙ Republicans

Automation, yeah, that's the ticket!

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ classic ∙ election ∙ taxes ∙ regulations

Works like a charm.

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ campaign finance reform ∙ classic ∙ registered voter ∙ contribute

Courtesy goes a long way

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ FCC ∙ cable TV ∙ Time Warner Cable ∙ Comcast ∙ Adelphia ∙ radio spectrum ∙ morality ∙ competition ∙ change the channel ∙ fiber optics

No shame
This was the thing that put me off blogging for more than two years.

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ John McCain ∙ election

Courtesy goes a long way

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ George W. Bush ∙ class ∙ Bill Clinton ∙ Al Gore ∙ Clinton staffers ∙ Barack Obama ∙ Ronald Reagan ∙ George H. W. Bush

This is a page from the original version of Pagan Vigil. There are some formatting differences. Originally published at www.paganvigil.com/C127135145/E20110113130905

Memorial or political rally?

No shame
This was the thing that put me off blogging for more than two years.

I'm angry right now.

No, strike that. I'm pissed.

There is absolutely NO REASON to turn a memorial into pep rally.

Every single time I've commented on a mass killing, I've been flamed. So this time, I thought I would stay out of it.

And then I see the President turn a tragedy into a bloody political event. Complete with slogan. T-shirts. Bumper stickers!

This goes beyond double standards.

So what good does it do to follow the rules of propriety if the "other guys" break every single one?

How is this different from what Bush 43 did? Or for that matter, what that diseased Westboro Baptist Church keeps trying to do?

They've got no shame. And they try to use YOUR SHAME as a weapon against you.

Fuck them.

They have not the right or the power. I'm not going to give it to them anymore. No matter what I say, they'll turn it political. They will demand that I give up my thoughts for the ones they dictate. They try to turn my acts of respect into silent acquiescement to THEIR agenda.

Just like they do now.

I'll say it loud and clear.

Obama has no class. He turned something that should have healed into politics. T-shirts? By all the gods, the man's a coward and an opportunist.

Death is too important for politics.

Posted: Thu - January 13, 2011 at 01:09 PM

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ Tucson ∙ classic ∙ Arizona ∙ Gabrielle Giffords ∙ shooting ∙ memorial ∙ political event ∙ bumper stickers ∙ double standards

Tags: Original Vigil

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Great quote that's right on the money

““If I could outlaw one rhetorical and stylistic device I think it would be comparing your idealogical opponent to Hitler, Nazis, and fascists*. It cheapens the true horrors of WWII and the Holocaust, and instantly destroys any chance for a civilized debate. The political left and right both employ this "scorched earth" tactic of demonizing the other side, and some religious leaders aren't much better.””
     — Jason Pitz-Waters, The Bay Area Fascists?!?

Do I have to say I agree?

Posted: Mon - December 1, 2008 at 06:24 AM

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ Jason Pitz-Waters ∙ Nazis ∙ fascists ∙ WWII ∙ Holocaust ∙ debate

“WalMart: A Place to Pray”

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ Lego ∙ Lego Factory ∙ Ronny Scherer

Now that government has failed, what next?

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ union ∙ temp workers ∙ willing to pay ∙ willing to sell

The EPA says that cap-and-trade helped make it possible

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ global warming ∙ carbon dioxide ∙ computer models

A pet peeve

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ clipping ∙ skimmed ∙ John Flint ∙ Sonny Perdue ∙ Weston ∙ Florida ∙ Oliver Porter ∙ Sandy Sprints ∙ Georgia ∙ competition ∙ provide services

A pet peeve

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ ozone ∙ EPA ∙ Jeffrey R. Holmstead ∙ clipping ∙ skimmed ∙ cap-and-trade ∙ Bush administration

This is a page from the original version of Pagan Vigil. There are some formatting differences. Originally published at www.paganvigil.com/C322448388/E4543350

It's for your own good!

A friend pointed this site out to me.

My question, why don't people who are lactose intolerant just avoid milk products?

The answer is that according to these people, folks can't be trusted to make up their own minds. And it is a chance for lawyers to make money and certain people to get a lot of media attention. Even if the money is awarded, the chances of those who suffered actually getting more than a token payment is very small.

Why is it that people who want to do something for your own good won't trust you to make the choice?

Posted: Mon - August 15, 2005 at 07:50 PM

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ lactose intolerant ∙ milk products ∙ choice

This is a page from the original version of Pagan Vigil. There are some formatting differences. Originally published at www.paganvigil.com/C322448388/E1545986641

A pet peeve

Classic liberalism rests on the defense of individual liberty and private property, usually with a limited government. In America today, that is called libertarianism.

Modern liberalism depends on an ever increasing government intervention to control economic activity an channel it towards worthy ends.

The two have nothing to do with one another, even though modern liberalism claims descent from classic liberalism by way of social democracy.

From my viewpoint, modern liberalism is trying to cash in on the reputation of classic liberalism in order to justify their actions, even though those same actions violate both the spirit and letter of classic liberalism

Posted: Tue - August 9, 2005 at 07:18 AM

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ classic liberalism ∙ modern liberalism ∙ libertarian ∙ progressive

A few thoughts on the big summer films and declining box office revenues

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ originality ∙ sequels ∙ remakes ∙ market research ∙ War of the Worlds ∙ King Kong

Computer security expert switches his company from Windows to Macintosh

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ clipping ∙ skimmed ∙ Financial Times ∙ Microsoft ∙ China ∙ censorship

This is a page from the original version of Pagan Vigil. There are some formatting differences. Originally published at www.paganvigil.com/C322448388/E859607230

Computer security expert switches his company from Windows to Macintosh

The Security Awareness Company has switched from Windows based computers to Macintoshes. You can find some of the details here. Microsoft is either unwilling or unable to deal with some of the security issues in it's products, leaving room for third party suppliers to pick up the slack.

Just as you shouldn't have to be a high-end audiophile to turn on the radio or a certified mechanic to drive a car, you shouldn't have to be an expert in the operating system to use a computer.

Apple, for all of it's weaknesses (and it does have some major ones), is much closer to delivering an "appliance" computer that just works without having to worry if your computer is infected or if it will crash today.

But in a market controlled exclusively by one company, the average person wouldn't have that choice. And Microsoft would have very little incentive to get better.

Posted: Mon - May 30, 2005 at 07:32 AM

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ Security Awareness Company ∙ Windows ∙ Macintosh ∙ Microsoft ∙ Apple ∙ appliance

Radley Balko makes a better case for free markets

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ clipping ∙ guest content ∙ skimmed ∙ Radley Balko ∙ TheAgitator

Are you ready to think about these neighbors? What would you do?

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ Neighborhood Game ∙ favorites ∙ classic

Headlines that don't merit their own entry

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ Neighborhood Game ∙ favorites ∙ classic

Critics of my criticism

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ Neighborhood Game ∙ favorites ∙ classic

These older blog entries have been reformatted and entered into the current directories.

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ Neighborhood Game ∙ favorites ∙ classic

Roundup of the headline links

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ Roger Ebert ∙ Barack Obama ∙ criticism ∙ Rush Limbaugh ∙ faith ∙ libertarian ∙ racist ∙ Tea Party ∙ religion ∙ wingnuts ∙ Presidency ∙ Office of the President Elect ∙ post-racial ∙ transparent ∙ closing Gitmo ∙ healthcare ∙ Bill Clinton ∙ Glenn Beck ∙ Obama Administration ∙ Treasury Department ∙ International banks ∙ Iraq ∙ military advisors ∙ favorites ∙ classic

Check out these stories all over the web

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ Neighborhood Game

This is a page from the original version of Pagan Vigil. There are some formatting differences. Originally published at www.paganvigil.com/C1319896483/E20090831114244

Beacon Quick Links for 31Aug2009

Roundup of my link stack

Max Yasgur understood real American Values

Taking a stand even when you don't agree

The Artist Formerly Known as Dissident: Artists have a duty to dissent—even against Obama

How we tolerate dissent says a great deal about our character

Real unemployment rate at 16 pct: Fed official

You should ask who is juggling the figures and why

Bill would give president emergency control of Internet

Hey, let's take something that works because it's decentralized and no one person or group controls it and centralize control

Latest in Stimulus: 'Cash for Refrigerators

Because 'Cash for Clunkers' was such an unquestioned success

Chicago August Ends with Near-Record Cold

Because that global warming thing is getting blamed for everything else

That's it for today. I'm going to go find someplace that doesn't have a crew digging up the road or laying new asphalt outside.

Posted: Mon - August 31, 2009 at 11:42 AM

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ Max Yasgur ∙ American Values ∙ dissent ∙ Barack Obama ∙ unemployment rate ∙ President ∙ internet ∙ stimulus ∙ Chicago ∙ global warming

This is a page from the original version of Pagan Vigil. There are some formatting differences. Originally published at www.paganvigil.com/C1319896483/E20090323134948

Beacon Quick Links for 23Mar2009

Roundup of the headline links

Kroft to Obama: Are you punch-drunk?

I've begun to wonder that myself.

Wikileaks taken offline after publishing Australia's banned websites

Turns out that the server couldn't handle the traffic.

Resistance grows to Obama's bigger government

Encouraging signs

DHS Officials Skirt Open Meeting Laws to Promote REAL ID

Evidently the law only applies to the little people.

Montana's Sound Money Bill

I am not convinced that this one isn't a big dose of wish fulfillment, but it could be. Also here, but consider the source.

US Mint Suspends Production of More Gold and Silver Coins

Granted it's collectable coins, but certainly worth watching close. Especially if states start requiring gold and silver for payment.

US bikini wax ban plans ditched

New Jersey officials found they had a fight on their hands.

Law puts non-offenders on state's sex registry

Another example of the tyranny of the sex offender laws.

Posted: Mon - March 23, 2009 at 01:49 PM

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ Barack Obama ∙ Steve Kroft ∙ Wikileaks ∙ Australia ∙ banned websites ∙ goverment ∙ DHS ∙ Real ID ∙ Montana ∙ sound money ∙ gold ∙ silver ∙ coins

This is a page from the original version of Pagan Vigil. There are some formatting differences. Originally published at www.paganvigil.com/C1319896483/E20090303070215

Beacon quick links for 03Mar2009

Check out these stories all over the web

BofA chief admits Merrill aid 'mistake'

This is what, the third or fourth bank who said that their bank was forced to take the bailout money?

Our Troubled Economy is a Response to Barack Obama's Policies

Just not the response he wanted. Watch the blame game continue

Switzerland Should Stiff-Arm The IRS

The interesting question is why something that was perfectly acceptable last year requires drastic action this year. Hat tip Samizdata.net

That's it for today.

Posted: Tue - March 3, 2009 at 07:02 AM

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ Bank of America ∙ Merrill Lynch ∙ Barack Obama ∙ economy ∙ policy

Taking on the ethanol mythos

Tags: Original Vigil

The costs that the global warming alarmists don't want you to know about

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ clipping ∙ ethanol ∙ gasoline ∙ corn ∙ subsidies ∙ USDA ∙ Earth Policy Institute ∙ government screw-up ∙ guest content

Hidden costs in the popular environmental movement

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ clipping ∙ milk ∙ ethanol ∙ subsidies ∙ Rabobank Groep ∙ Larry Salathe ∙ Chicago Mercantile Exchange ∙ Erhard Richarts ∙ ZMP ∙ Chicago Board of Trade ∙ Joel Karlin ∙ alternative fuels ∙ government screw-up ∙ Sunni Marvillosa ∙ guest content

Will getting rid of incandescent bulbs really save that much energy?

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ clipping ∙ ethanol ∙ corn ∙ hunger ∙ guest content

The accusation becomes more important than the crime.

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ corn ∙ sugar cane ∙ biofuels ∙ soy ∙ Jörn Scharlemann ∙ William Laurance ∙ Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute ∙ Rainer Zah ∙ Empa Research Institute ∙ biodiversity ∙ forests ∙ farmland ∙ corn ethanol ∙ sugar cane ethanol ∙ soy diesel ∙ palm-oil diesel ∙ environmental impact ∙ clipping ∙ guest content

Were the genocidal remarks misinterpreted?

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ trade-offs ∙ compact florescent bulbs ∙ CFL bulbs ∙ mercury ∙ environmental crusade ∙ clipping ∙ guest content

Killing off 90 percent of humans

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ MPG standards ∙ incandescent bulb ∙ trade-offs ∙ compact florescent bulbs ∙ environmental impact ∙ global warming ∙ politicos ∙ black market

This is a page from the original version of Pagan Vigil. There are some formatting differences. Originally published at www.paganvigil.com/C1722892404/E20060405163316

Were the genocidal remarks misinterpreted?

It seems that that this is rapidly becoming a case of "he said, he said."

The controversy surrounds comments made during two recent speeches in which Pianka discussed the need for population control and the impending disease pandemic that might well just take care of it. Some heard the comments as simply a warning. To others, however, it sounded like Pianka was advocating the use of deadly viruses to kill off millions of people.

Pianka, who calls the latter interpretation nonsense, says the whole thing has blown out of proportion. Many, however, seem to be taking his critics seriously. Pianka said he is scheduled to meet with FBI officials today.

"Someone has reported me as a terrorist," he said. "They think I'm forming a cadre of people to release the airborne Ebola virus into the air. That I'm the leader and my students are the followers."

There's no denying that Pianka, even at first glance, seems a little eccentric.

His office, which he has inhabited for 38 years, is cluttered with books, stacks of paper, bones and even a few beers. There's a photo of him dressed like British naturalist Charles Darwin. Scattered pictures of lizards and a copy of his semi-autobiography, "The Lizard Man Speaks," reveal his area of expertise — lizards and evolutionary ecology. On his desk, he keeps a stuffed likeness of the Ebola virus that was sent to him by students who enjoyed his speeches.

He is particularly troubled by the recent explosion in the human population. He says we now take up about 50 percent of all livable space on Earth and that people should have no more than two children. Humans, and the way they've multiplied, are "no better than bacteria," he says.

Dr. Pinaka is not denying the remarks, just their interpretation. Without context, it's hard to say who is right. But it is certainly worth watching.

Posted: Wed - April 5, 2006 at 04:33 PM

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ Watch List ∙ Eric R. Pianka ∙ genocide ∙ FBI ∙ terrorism ∙ clipping ∙ guest content

This is a page from the original version of Pagan Vigil. There are some formatting differences. Originally published at www.paganvigil.com/C1722892404/E20060403053519

Killing off 90 percent of humans

I keep a private watch list, people I like to keep an eye on and track, just in case.

Up to now, it's been a very private thing.

Here is the first public entry. Eric R. Pianka, who evidently has been very naughty.

If true, he's damn right the general public is not ready for his theories. However, I have to be honest here. The man making these claims is a Creationist and may have an agenda. Either way this situation bears close watching.

I'll will consider this genocidal solution for a microsecond when the professor volunteers to be exterminated first. Then I will dismiss it with prejudice.

Here is his web address.

Posted: Mon - April 3, 2006 at 05:35 AM

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ Watch List ∙ Eric R. Pianka ∙ Forrest Mims ∙ University of Texas ∙ genocide

Expanding civilizations, religions, and faith

Except for a few central issues, I really try not to tread on people's beliefs. I don't have time for one thing.

But every once in a while, something comes up that is just too silly.

David Warren was writing about the Gulf oil mess and rules and regulations. He made some great points about the limits of government ability. But then he tossed in this tidbit.

❝❝I like to dwell on the wisdom of our ancestors. It took us millennia to emerge from the primitive notion that a malignant agency must lie behind every unfortunate experience. Indeed, the Catholic Church spent centuries fighting folk pagan beliefs in things like evil fairies, and the whole notion the Devil can compel any person to act against his will -- only to watch an explosion of witch-hunting and related popular hysterias at the time of the Reformation.

In so many ways, the trend of post-Christian society today is back to pagan superstitions: to the belief that malice lies behind every misfortune, and to the related idea that various, essentially pagan charms can be used to ward off that to which all flesh is heir. The belief that, for instance, laws can be passed, that change the entire order of nature, is among the most irrational of these.❞❞

Not to put too fine a point on it, but the "triumph" of Christianity actually cost European civilization science, wealth, and much of what made life good.

This has nothing to do with the merits of Paganism or the faults of Christianity.

That's important. Read it again.

And yes, I know that paganism wasn't Paganism as we recognize it today. That's not the point. Nor is it important which had better beliefs or more superstitions.

It's one of my working theories. Cultures and civilizations expand when they have trade, immigration, and tolerance. Without trade, immigration, and tolerance, cultures contract and become more insular.

It's a generally accepted flexibility of thought that makes trade, immigration, and tolerance possible. The more trade, immigration, and tolerance there is, the more vibrant and interesting the culture becomes. You never know what will cross pollinate or what will take root where.

Thanks to Constantine, Christianity went from several competing groups to one ruled by a Church and an Emperor. Dissent was ruthlessly suppressed. Variations from the cultural norms were destroyed. This isn't inherent in Christianity, but it was inherent in the Christian belief system that the Council of Nicea propagated.

Believe me, there are forms of paganism that are just as intolerant. And oddly enough, those also retreated into themselves.

How we treat the Other may well be the defining characteristic of a great human civilization.

And then we get Stephen Hawking. Yes, that Stephen Hawking.

❝❝There is a fundamental difference between religion, which is based on authority, [and] science, which is based on observation and reason. Science will win because it works.❞❞

Two tiny little problems there. Religion does work for many people, but not necessarily because of authority. Faith works for many more, and not necessarily because of authority.

And the other problem. Well, it's hardly worth mentioning, but science is the bastard child of magick.

Oops! I revealed an untold truth!!

Religion, faith, and the desire to control or at least predict the universe led to science. In many ways, they still intertwine.

Just something for you to think about on this Wednesday.

Posted: Wed - June 9, 2010 at 02:02 PM  Morality & Modern Life

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ too silly ∙ Gulf oil mess ∙ trade-immigration-tolerance ∙ culture ∙ Constantine ∙ Christianity ∙ Pagan ∙ The Other ∙ Stephen Hawking ∙ religion ∙ authority ∙ bastard child of magick ∙ science

Comments

Certain fundamentalists trot out the scare tactics again

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ classic ∙ ritual crime ∙ approved faiths ∙ skimmed ∙ Christianity ∙ rItual occult symbols ∙ crime ∙ poseur ∙ sexual predator

Nothing to do with morality and everything to do with vote pandering

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ classic ∙ Prohibition ∙ Great Depression ∙ income tax ∙ skimmed ∙ War on Drugs ∙ taxes

Sacrificing rationality to sound vaguely important

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ classic ∙ anthropogenic global warming ∙ scientific illiteracy ∙ psudeoscience ∙ KYFHO ∙ MYOB ∙ live & let live

This is a page from the original version of Pagan Vigil. There are some formatting differences. Originally published at www.paganvigil.com/C149884619/E668386334

This is awfully familiar. The U.S. has been accused of human rights abuses before

““As usual, individuals with no responsibility in the matter, their humanitarian impulses outraged by conditions that were frequently beyond help, began carrying to America tales of indifference, negligence, and callousness on the part of the troops.  Generally these stories were lies.  The thousands of men assigned to the job of rescuing the DPs and organizing relief for them were Americans.  They were given every facility and assistance the Army could provide, and they were genuinely concerned in doing their utmost for these unfortunate of the earth.  But because perfection could not be achieved some so-called investigators saw a golden chance for personal publicity.  They did so at the expense of great numbers of Americans who labored night and day to alleviate the average lot of people who had suffered so much that they seemed at times beyond suffering.””
     — General Dwight D. Eisenhower, Crusade in Europe

Hat tip to William Katz at FrontPageMagazine.com

Posted: Mon - June 13, 2005 at 05:48 AM

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ humor ∙ Eisenhower ∙ human rights ∙ skimmed ∙ short

Douglas Adams Passing Day

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ John Kerry ∙ Iraq ∙ short ∙ skimmed ∙ clipping

This is a page from the original version of Pagan Vigil. There are some formatting differences. Originally published at www.paganvigil.com/C149884619/E656387568

Did you hear what you thought you heard?

““Again and again in recent years, the filibuster has been the shame of the Senate and the last resort of special interest groups. Too often, it has enabled a small minority of the Senate to prevent a strong majority from working its will and serving the public interest.””
     — Senator Edward Kennedy, 1975

Just remember what he said then and what he says now. Then ask yourself what the difference is.

Posted: Fri - May 27, 2005 at 08:33 AM

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ Ted Kennedy ∙ filibuster ∙ Senate ∙ short ∙ skimmed

This is a page from the original version of Pagan Vigil. There are some formatting differences. Originally published at www.paganvigil.com/C149884619/E102079043

'Isms' are not good

““It's not that I condone fascism....or any 'ism' for that matter.  'Isms' in my opinion are not good.  A person should not believe in an 'ism', they should believe in themselves.  I quote John Lennon, 'I don't believe in Beatles...I just believe in me.'  A good point there.  After all, he was the walrus.  I could be the walrus, I'd still have to bum rides off of people!””
     — Ferris Bueller's Day Off

One of the great all time arguments against isms of any kind.

Posted: Sat - May 21, 2005 at 02:45 PM

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ Ferris Bueller ∙ isms ∙ humor ∙ short ∙ skimmed

Douglas Adams Passing Day

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ humor ∙ Douglas Adams ∙ towels ∙ short ∙ skimmed ∙ passing day ∙ calendars

This is a page from the original version of Pagan Vigil. There are some formatting differences. Originally published at www.paganvigil.com/C149884619/E916169645

Daniel Webster on those who want to rule

““In every generation there are those who want to rule well - but they mean to rule. They promise to be good masters - but they mean to be masters.””
     — Daniel Webster

And of course, they only promise to do it for "your own good."

Posted: Mon - May 9, 2005 at 09:15 PM

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ short ∙ Daniel Webster ∙ skimmed ∙ rulers&masters ∙ "your own good"

It's not a right unless everyone else has it too. Otherwise it's a privilege taken at someone else's expense.

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ freely chosen ∙ reluctant advocate ∙ gun rights ∙ gun ownership ∙ favorites ∙ classic

Cashing in on people's fear

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ speech wars ∙ E pluribus unum ∙ religion ∙ personal responsiblity ∙ Romney ∙ Christianity ∙ mala in se ∙ parity test ∙ freely chosen ∙ mala prohibita ∙ coercive power ∙ moral justification ∙ person of faith ∙ Barry Goldwater ∙ favorites

Cashing in on people's fear

Tags: global warming ∙ Gore ∙ crony capitalism ∙ mercantilism ∙ Original Vigil ∙ corporatism

The Anthony Diotaiuto killing

Tags: SWAT ∙ Balko ∙ Original Vigil

Is it really all that different than the 1960s?

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ San Francisco ∙ homeless ∙ hippie ∙ flower child ∙ GenX ∙ Boomers ∙ bad choices ∙ personal freedom ∙ personal responsiblity ∙ compassion

Do Freedom of the Press and Freedom of Speech apply to websites?

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ First Amendment ∙ FEC ∙ Bush League ∙ Kerry

Bloggers can be legitimate journalists too

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ First Amendment ∙ Google ∙ Amazon ∙ classic ∙ favorites

News about Camp Williams in Utah

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ rumor ∙ discredited

A Utah camp for New Orleans refugees seems to be more like a POW camp

UPDATED TO ADD: Much of the information in the original piece was either a misunderstanding or an exaggeration. This is from before I routinely fact checked. - NW

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ rumor ∙ discredited

A blog with a first hand look at one of the Katrina refugee camps

UPDATED TO ADD: Much of the information in the original piece was either a misunderstanding or an exaggeration. This is from before I routinely fact checked. - NW

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ rumor ∙ discredited

Looks like it is the GOP's turn to celebrate Big Government solutions

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ classic ∙ favorites

Pagan and magick books do not a terrorist make

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ Koran ∙ Bible ∙ Pagan ∙ Corporate Clone ∙ classic ∙ filmmaking ∙ TV production ∙ writers tools ∙ architecture ∙ thinking ∙ autism ∙ Asperger syndrome ∙ history ∙ favorites

The public sector isn't free

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ public sector ∙ classic ∙ private sector ∙ favorites

The Salmon-Thirty-Salmon

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ boondoggle

How a benevolent and socially progressive government drags people down

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ freely chosen ∙ classic ∙ victimhood ∙ Social Security ∙ favorites ∙ flood insurance ∙ good intentions ∙ bad choices ∙ compassion

Is the society or culture more important than the individual?

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ individual freedom ∙ collectivist ∙ classic ∙ favorites

How pictures of a family camping trip turned into a family's personal hell

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ protect the children ∙ sex ∙ nudity

Some people are deliberately confusing the issues to advance their beliefs

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ sex

From one of my freedom lists

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ J1W ∙ robot ∙ human rights

Some people are deliberately confusing the issues to advance their beliefs

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ Pagan ∙ Christianity ∙ religion ∙ person of faith ∙ Christians

The law and you

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ mala in se ∙ mala prohibita ∙ Prohibition ∙ forbidden ∙ sex ∙ social engineering ∙ gambling ∙ prostitution ∙ picture ∙ guest content

Which laws are necessary and which ones are wasteful? Here is what you can count on a libertarian to say.

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ mala in se ∙ mala prohibita ∙ forbidden

The last, best hope for freedom

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ internet ∙ competition ∙ Apple ∙ classic ∙ Network Solutions ∙ Amazon ∙ MacHighway ∙ Google ∙ LibraryThing ∙ sex ∙ informed choice ∙ internet ∙ favorites

The real problem with "progressive" laws

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ classic ∙ progressive ∙ favorites ∙ civil forfeiture

Because of the G8 summit, here are a few of my thoughts on global warming

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ classic ∙ favorites

Was the United States really founded as a Christian nation?

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ classic ∙ favorites ∙ freedom ∙ liberty ∙ libertarian ∙ Asperger syndrome ∙ moon shot ∙ Red Blooded Americans ∙ abundance ∙ Star Trek ∙ Arthur Conan-Doyle ∙ Mark Twain ∙ Jules Verne ∙ science fiction ∙ Richard Nixon ∙ Tommorrowland ∙ flying cars ∙ spaceport ∙ Moon ∙ Mars ∙ asteroids ∙ oceans ∙ UNKNOWN ∙ Kirk ∙ American Eagle ∙ Spock ∙ McCoy ∙ Scotty ∙ worker of miracles ∙ American dream ∙ 9-11 ∙ responsibility ∙ future ∙ Lady Liberty ∙ Lady Freedom ∙ raise your eyes ∙ enlightenment ∙ multi-lateral ∙ multi-national ∙ multi-phasic ∙ multi-tasking ∙ multi-cultural ∙ multi-apologetic

What does the call for a "progressive judge" on the United States Supreme Court really mean?

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ classic ∙ Lensman ∙ Robert A. Heinlein ∙ Ronny Ray Gun ∙ Pax Americana ∙ favorites ∙ Margaret Thatcher ∙ John Paul II ∙ libertarian ∙ Christianity ∙ Isaac Bonewits

Because of the G8 summit, here are a few of my thoughts on global warming

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ global warming ∙ classic ∙ climate change ∙ four questions ∙ public science ∙ favorites

Does religion really define public morality? Should government control religion?

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ religion ∙ Christianity ∙ Founders ∙ classic ∙ favorites

What does the call for a "progressive judge" on the United States Supreme Court really mean?

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ classic ∙ progressive ∙ favorites ∙ liberal ∙ progressive ∙ Sandra Day O'Conner ∙ Democrat ∙ Supreme Court ∙ Kelo v. New London ∙ Berman v. Parker ∙ private property ∙ urban renewal ∙ social engineering ∙ Pfizer

Does religion really define public morality? Should government control religion?

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ IRS ∙ religion ∙ coercive power ∙ person of faith ∙ multi-cultural ∙ parity test ∙ multi-apologetic

Does the common good come at the expense of the individual?

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ NOTA ∙ election

Originally published at www.paganvigil.com/C127135145/E20071204130728

Supermarket theory of government

Demand your right to choose nothing and have it count

Sunni Maravillosa is part of a growing number of small "l" libertarians who believes that Ron Paul is no libertarian and voting for him sacrifices freedom.

I agree with her, but I don't think that is the whole problem. My answer is in the technopagan green.

Call me old-fashioned, but I still think the one True Answer is None of the Above.

If you HAVE to choose one from Column A OR one from Column B without the ability to walk away, that is not really a choice.

Oh, I may throw in refinements, like barring the losing candidates from serving in that office for the term of that office, or insisting that in order to "win" a candidate has to carry a majority of eligible voters and not just a majority of those who voted or a majority of registered voters. But in the end, it's the same thing.

Rejecting the choices offered is still a valid choice. Otherwise you're playing three-card monty and the red card is never where you think it is.

I call it the supermarket theory of government. I am not required to buy a cola, or even a soft drink, or any beverage at all. Indeed, I don't have to buy anything or even go into the store.

If there HAS to be a choice between 1, 2, or 3, there is no reason for 1, 2, or 3 to be significantly different unless there is a 0. And if it has to be 1, 2, or 3, there is no reason that the 1, 2, or 3 HAVE to appeal to the disaffected because 1, 2, or 3 will win no matter what the unhappy voters do.

I agree that RP is no libertarian. But he is a symptom, not the problem.

Posted: Tue - December 4, 2007 at 01:07 PMA class="pvc" HREF="http://www.paganvigil.com

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ NOTA ∙ election ∙ supermarket

Originally published at www.paganvigil.com/C1874472463/E20061225074356

BMOC - A book review

Novel by libertarian blogger and fellow Arizonian Warren Meyer is not as good as I hoped, but still plenty of fun.

BMOC
Warren Meyer
Best Price $1.01 or Buy New $3.04

Privacy Information

When I was reading Warren Myer's Coyote Blog, I saw that he had written a mystery, BMOC. Intriguing, Arizona libertarian and businessman, now novelist. That justified ordering it from Amazon.

This book does a fantastic job showing some actual extreme abuses from tort law, and a pretty good job revealing the incestuous relationship that can happen between tort lawyers, legislators, and the media. That alone will bring it kudos from the libertarian crowd, including me.

I loved two of the characters, Susan Hunter and Preston March. I'm a sucker for strong women, so I am always pleased to see a confident female character. And for Preston March, anyone who thinks outside the box gets my attention, especially if he is successful.

I was less enthusiastic about the LA cop. I've got nothing against smart characters, and I think the old Columbo-type routine of pretending to dumb to put the criminals off guard can be very effective. I know it works in business. My problem was that once he dropped the act, he came across as too perfect, physically, mentally, and emotionally. I'm also not quite sure why he started trusting Susan well enough to be himself around her, especially when he was investigating a murder.

The Mafia types came off as clichés.

The first thing that bothered me was some of the language. Not that it was offensive, just unusual. “Eschew” popped up twice in one chapter. That is a word I have seen maybe three times before in the last ten years, and never in a novel. I got the feeling that the old thesaurus program was working overtime. Some of the phrasing was a bit odd too.

But what really got me was the improbable situations that seemed like deus ex machina. Once or twice, maybe. It's bad though when one of the characters actually cites the Improbability Drive from Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy as a way to describe the story's events in LA. Things just seemed contrived. I kept wanting to feed the story into Dramatica Pro to fix it.

It was a fast read and an exciting read, at least until the first run on the beach. Some of Preston March's ideas aren't so far out, there could be money there.

If you overlook a couple of rough edges, BMOC is worth it.

Posted: Sun - December 24, 2006 at 08:11 PM

Tags: Original Vigil

"Lessons" I don't agree with from a progressive list

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ charity ∙ extortion ∙ classic ∙ favorites

Despite the "push for impeachment," it is not one individual or party we should be worried about

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ classic ∙ progressive ∙ conservative ∙ RICO Act ∙ Sherman Anti-Trust Act ∙ Brown ∙ originalist ∙ victimhood ∙ human rights ∙ favorites

The only worthy faiths and beliefs are those freely chosen

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ classic ∙ progressive ∙ media bias ∙ Billy boy ∙ Bush League ∙ Diebold ∙ favorites

Does the secret Downing Street memo really tell us anything new?

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ George W. Bush ∙ Bill Clinton ∙ presumed guilty ∙ classic ∙ nothing to fear ∙ favorites ∙ income tax

Complaints show that public schools are insulated from the forces that would force improvement

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ classic ∙ ACLU ∙ Rush Limbaugh ∙ mission creep ∙ McCain-Feingold ∙ reform ∙ USAPATRIOT ∙ criminal foreiture ∙ jury nullification ∙ Real ID ∙ Homeland Security ∙ Faith Based Initiative ∙ traffic cameras ∙ gun ownership ∙ targeting doctors ∙ broadcast standards ∙ favorites ∙ civil forfeiture

The only worthy faiths and beliefs are those freely chosen

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ Pagan ∙ reciprocity ∙ religion ∙ classic ∙ favorites ∙ cross posted

Does the secret Downing Street memo really tell us anything new?

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ Bush League ∙ naughty press ∙ classic ∙ favorites

Competition breeds progress and encourages honesty

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ public schools ∙ classic ∙ for the children ∙ favorites

The delayed examination of why Real ID threatens freedom

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ privacy ∙ national security ∙ Real ID ∙ War on Drugs ∙ DEA ∙ IRS ∙ INS ∙ FDA ∙ classic ∙ Microsoft ∙ Hewlett-Packard ∙ favorites

Some people want freedom without accepting responsibility

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ Danny Glover ∙ favorites ∙ First Amendment ∙ personal responsiblity ∙ classic ∙ individual freedom ∙ MCI

Competition breeds progress and encourages honesty

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ classic ∙ competition ∙ Microsoft ∙ Apple ∙ favorites

My take on true believers of all stripes.

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ religion ∙ favorites ∙ Christianity ∙ Pagan ∙ classic ∙ freely chosen ∙ Founders ∙ personal choice ∙ reciprocity

My long delayed but necessary explanation.

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ media failure ∙ naughty press ∙ discredited

My take on true believers of all stripes.

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ favorites ∙ true believers ∙ MLK Day ∙ Arizona ∙ Somebody Else's Problem ∙ Bonewits ∙ E pluribus unum ∙ power with ∙ classic ∙ Hillary Clinton ∙ George W. Bush ∙ Bill Clinton

Just the FAQs about my Vigil

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ favorites ∙ global warming ∙ classic ∙ climate change ∙ public science ∙ four questions

Just the FAQs about my Vigil

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ neoconservative ∙ Bush League ∙ Wayland ∙ War on Terror ∙ The Matrix

Guess which word the popular version uses. It is not Freakin'

A work in progress. Comments and suggestions are welcome.

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ KYFHO ∙ F. Paul Wilson ∙ The Equalizer ∙ An Enemy Of The State ∙ Jack Williamson ∙ consent ∙ Jeffersonian ∙ Great Depression ∙ gold ∙ bad choices ∙ consequences ∙ charity ∙ extortion

Just the FAQs about my Vigil

Tags: Original Vigil ∙ libertarian ∙ progressive ∙ socialist ∙ modern liberal ∙ religion ∙ economic freedom ∙ human rights ∙ personal freedom ∙ conservative ∙ bad choices ∙ for your own good ∙ smaller than absolutely necessary ∙ Zero Agression Principle ∙ KYFHO ∙ Pagan ∙ individual freedom ∙ personal responsiblity ∙ part time troublemaker ∙ person of faith ∙ Zero Aggression Principle ∙ Non-Aggression Principle ∙ Veritas