Start of Ben Shapiro's article Titled The 2nd French Revolution
"Every old ideological conflict eventually becomes new again. So it is with today's battle between the forces of socialism, called "fairness" by its advocates, and the forces of capitalism, labeled "liberty" by its supporters. What we are witnessing is an ancient struggle between those who believe in the rights of the individual and those who believe in a sort of "general will." Those of conservative bent ardently hope for a second American Revolution; those of the left wish desperately for a second French Revolution.
This is not mere rhetoric. Look at the history of the first American Revolution, and you will see the fundamental principles that animate Rush Limbaugh; look at the history of the first French Revolution, and you will see the spirit that animates President Barack Obama."
Please go read all of Ben Shapiro's artilce, he clearly defines the battle between going on for the political future of this country.
I love the quote he uses in John Adams' Declaration of the Rights of the Inhabitants of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, ratified in 1780, provides the basic framework for American governing philosophy: ""All men are born free and equal, and have certain natural, essential, and unalienable rights; among which may be reckoned the right of enjoying and defending their lives and liberties; that of acquiring, possessing, and protecting property; in fine, that of seeking and obtaining their safety and happiness." The purpose of the government is to secure these rights.
Where do you stand on liberty vs fairness?
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
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My dad was a biker from the 50's, mom a 60's hippie, both blue collar and believed in letting there children do as thy wished within limits (not many limits at that). School and grades were not important, but personal freedom was. They also stressed that you were responsible for the consequences of exercising that freedom. Get a ticket or thrown in jail don't call mom & dad, they'd say "it's your bed, you made it, you sleep in it".
ReplyDeleteI made choices far different then they did. I knew when I was 18 I was on my own. They made that clear. So in high school I choose to get good grades, do sports, etc., choosing to work rather than play. Those choices help provide scholarships for college.
In college I choose to study rather than party. Those choices provided a solid work ethic, and access to better paying jobs.
I've had at least one job usually two since I was 13, from mowing lawns to writing computer programs late into the night after my regular job. Those choices kept me out of debt, my family fed, and a roof over our heads.
I've chosen to work hard, and live within my means. When I purchased a house I choose one that I could afford the mortgage on even if I lost my main job.I don't have a credit card, don't have much savings as life has not been easy.
Waited until I was married to have kids, and sacrificed to be sure they were provided for.
Give to my church, and make sure it gives to the community (my church has paid electric bills, provided food, clothing, etc. to just about anybody who asks), and it makes sure it's members are taken care of in times of need. I've helped build houses after Katrina, and clean homes and streets after flooding right here in Crystal river. These choices have provided joy in my heart, and friends for life, who if I ever need something would jump at the chance to help.
All I want is to be left alone, and enjoy what I can afford from my own work. Between income taxes, property taxes, the huge part of my phone bill that's taxes, the huge part of my power bill that's taxes, gas taxes, and the licensing fees and taxes I pay every year more than 1/2 of what I earn goes to the government. For that I get bad roads, slow police protection, that's more interested in fining everyday citizens than going after real criminals with no money, a volunteer fire dept, and access to crappy schools, that I haven't used because part time at home my wife and I can do a better job than government indoctrination centers. A good thing I get is the protection of an all voluntary military who has, is, and will die to protect my individual liberty.
What's fair about taking 1/2 the money I earn from my labor and using a large part of it to give to people who have chosen not to take advantage of education when offered, to have children without a spouse, not to better themselves, etc. Or to banks or car companies who've made poor decisions. Or to
Most people who are perpetually poor are there because of the choices they made in life. We shouldn't have to pay for other peoples poor choices.
Signed 2bfree in Crystal River