Most f the ideology supporting laissez faire capitalism is based on Adam Smith's THE WEALTH OF ...

Elganned comments on Dec 20, 2018:

Capitalism is neither a philosophy nor a system of morality; it is merely a mechanistic phenomenon. Adam Smith and those that have followed were and are merely trying to explain the rationale behind the mechanism, much as the theory of gravity sought to explain why things fall down and not up. That...

wordywalt replies on Dec 20, 2018:

Please note that I said LAISSEZ FAIRE capitalism. That IS an ideology.

Sorrow has reared its head in my life.

wordywalt comments on Dec 6, 2018:

I understand your sorrow completely, but find your "rainbow bridge" stuff simply maudlin.

wordywalt replies on Dec 19, 2018:

@KevinTwining You continue to misrepresent. If you will look at my statement, you will see that I stated that I comprehend the snse of loss and sorrow at the end of the companionship of the deceased person, but displayed empathy in pointing out that we will always have treasured memories that will comfort us. If the grieving person were my daughter or wife, I would tell them that I would prefer that she not use the term "passed away", but would console her and show understanding. You are simply off base with your characterization.

New investigative reports about the astounding extent of Russian social media campaigns against ...

wordywalt comments on Dec 18, 2018:

First;, I do not believe that many (if any) people on the left dismiss he evidence on Russian interference. And, most of those on the right know that the reports are true, but do not want to admit that they have been dumb enough to be suckered by the Russians.

wordywalt replies on Dec 18, 2018:

@jorj History is going to prove you dead wrong!

This one is for all the pro-life people on here.

wordywalt comments on Feb 25, 2018:

All pro-life advocates should realize that to choose a pro0life stance for their own lives is find' but when they attempt to force all people to act in accordance with their beliefs they are acting in a totalitarian manner that, in itself, is reprehensible.

wordywalt replies on Dec 18, 2018:

@TheMiddleWay That is a typo. It should have ben a question, and should have read "Is it . . ."

Sorrow has reared its head in my life.

wordywalt comments on Dec 6, 2018:

I understand your sorrow completely, but find your "rainbow bridge" stuff simply maudlin.

wordywalt replies on Dec 17, 2018:

@KevinTwining Again, you mischaracterize. I did not "diss" anybody or anything. I merely expressed my personal reaction, which I have every legitimate right to. Please be more careful of how you depict other people and their actions.

These days accountability is being easily avoided by the politicians, giant corporations as well as ...

wordywalt comments on Dec 16, 2018:

I would say existentialism. It emphasizes that the only meaning in our lives is that which we create by our thoughts, decisions, and actions. And, we are responsible for all of thoughts, decisions, and actions because, in each case, we could always have chosen otherwise.

wordywalt replies on Dec 17, 2018:

@Jammo I disagree strongly. I am an existentialist, and manufactured consent and reject all religious beliefs. I am also a strong advocate of acting to deal with all environmental issues. Indeed, the existentialist point of view that one is responsible for his or her decisions and actions leads one to a much more active role than to the passive one you depict. I think you are simply off base on all those points.

Healthcare: Give it to everyone as a government program.

wordywalt comments on Dec 15, 2018:

Why not? This is exactly what every other industrialized nation is doing -- and it works and reduces overall medical costs. It is amazing to me that we have not found the intelligence and morality to do it decades ago.

wordywalt replies on Dec 16, 2018:

@TomMcGiverin It is not just individualism. Parasitic and demagogic right wing politicians have warped the thinking of too many people. As a result these people are terrorized by anything these demagogue label as socialistic or socialism. We have to provide a different and powerful voice which can be heard over the demagoguery.

It bothers me when I see or hear an atheist or agnostic using the cliché "passed away.

EdEarl comments on Dec 14, 2018:

"We all know that the term came from religion, supposedly describing passing from moral life to eternal life in heaven or the alternative," is news to me. It's just a synonym for died.

wordywalt replies on Dec 14, 2018:

Not a synonym, but a euphemism.

It bothers me when I see or hear an atheist or agnostic using the cliché "passed away.

Lillyfield41 comments on Dec 13, 2018:

Do you have something you prefer saying???

wordywalt replies on Dec 13, 2018:

Yes. I prefer the honest word "died."

trump administration aims to strip Clean Water Act, opening up waterways to unlimited pollution!...

wordywalt comments on Dec 11, 2018:

There is no limit to the damage that Trump will do to our environment and people -- just so that he and his ilk can make a fast buck.

wordywalt replies on Dec 13, 2018:

Absolutely.@Freedompath

Early Russian outreach to Trump campaign detailed by Mueller

wordywalt comments on Dec 9, 2018:

Actually, that Russian influence goes back even further. In the 1990s, when Trump was near total bankruptcy, Russian oligarchs laundered money and helped to bail him out by buying whole floors in his properties. There is reason to believe that they were also a part of the group that bought Trump ...

wordywalt replies on Dec 10, 2018:

@powder Yes, he is an amazingly sinister and corrupt man who is a real threat to world order. No one with any objectivity can deny that. The other crap you threw in is just that.

Early Russian outreach to Trump campaign detailed by Mueller

wordywalt comments on Dec 9, 2018:

Actually, that Russian influence goes back even further. In the 1990s, when Trump was near total bankruptcy, Russian oligarchs laundered money and helped to bail him out by buying whole floors in his properties. There is reason to believe that they were also a part of the group that bought Trump ...

wordywalt replies on Dec 10, 2018:

Only those who disagree with him.@powder

Early Russian outreach to Trump campaign detailed by Mueller

wordywalt comments on Dec 9, 2018:

Actually, that Russian influence goes back even further. In the 1990s, when Trump was near total bankruptcy, Russian oligarchs laundered money and helped to bail him out by buying whole floors in his properties. There is reason to believe that they were also a part of the group that bought Trump ...

wordywalt replies on Dec 10, 2018:

@powder You are so full of it. The fact is that every oligarch in Russia acts in accordance with what Putin wants as they all know to act otherwise is highly dangerous.

Sorrow has reared its head in my life.

wordywalt comments on Dec 6, 2018:

I understand your sorrow completely, but find your "rainbow bridge" stuff simply maudlin.

wordywalt replies on Dec 9, 2018:

@KevinTwining It is an old folk statement meaning that one who makes derogatory statements should not accuse another of the same offense. Also, as Hermann Hesse points out, we are all multifaceted, contradictory creatures. It is often when we are forced to face the contradictions that we do not want to face that real growth occurs. Facing such contradictions often makes us feel unformatable,but any real growth is a plus, not a minus.

What is the worst Christmas present you ever received? I once got some shoe inserts.

wordywalt comments on Dec 8, 2018:

The birth of my youngest daughter on December 23, 1964.

wordywalt replies on Dec 8, 2018:

@Donotbelieve I must have misread the post. I thought that it asked for my best gift.

We are now seeing clearly the primary reason that Trump ran for president.

Varn comments on Dec 8, 2018:

I think trump ran for president for narcissistic needs ... and because numerous sycophants convinced him to. He never expected to win, or had any qualms about adhering to the regressive far-wrong rhetoric & propaganda he parroted. Knowing he’d be immune from harm, and not spending all that much,...

wordywalt replies on Dec 8, 2018:

Well stated. Three is no doubt in my mind that without the conscionceless demagogues and political manipulators like McConnell, Gingrich, DeLay, Armee as well as the behind the scenes Grover Norquist, Trump would never really been taken seriously.

I think that many of my friends who adamantly oppose today's Republicans are missing one point.

genessa comments on Dec 8, 2018:

i do not think we are missing that point. we know that. but that third is not what is important. it's the republican politicians who, while already realizing they're making themselves unelectable, still for the most part HAVE to support trump because they, too, are compromised. they will leave ...

wordywalt replies on Dec 8, 2018:

@genessa Good.

Sorrow has reared its head in my life.

wordywalt comments on Dec 6, 2018:

I understand your sorrow completely, but find your "rainbow bridge" stuff simply maudlin.

wordywalt replies on Dec 8, 2018:

@KevinTwining Your characterization is untrue and derogatory. The pot should not be calling the kettle black.

I think that many of my friends who adamantly oppose today's Republicans are missing one point.

genessa comments on Dec 8, 2018:

i do not think we are missing that point. we know that. but that third is not what is important. it's the republican politicians who, while already realizing they're making themselves unelectable, still for the most part HAVE to support trump because they, too, are compromised. they will leave ...

wordywalt replies on Dec 8, 2018:

I respectfully disagree. I agree with you on the motives and current behavior of Republican politicians. But, what I am saying is that, was public outrage about Trump's corruption increases and spreads, a number of them will pull away just to try to save their own asses. Even then, their motives will not be benevolent and patriotic, but selfish.

Tonight's court filings make and their impact remind me of a bad old joke about a guy in hell in a ...

48thRonin comments on Dec 7, 2018:

They’re not to do what the liberals and the democrats want them to nor are they going to antagonize the man child in the White House. Not openly at least but they’ve been quietly and slowly moving away from trump and preparing for pence to be in charge. So just be patient and watch. ...

wordywalt replies on Dec 7, 2018:

It does not sound like law and order, holding a man responsible for his crimes, upholding democracy, and true patriotism are important to you.

Sorrow has reared its head in my life.

wordywalt comments on Dec 6, 2018:

I understand your sorrow completely, but find your "rainbow bridge" stuff simply maudlin.

wordywalt replies on Dec 6, 2018:

@ofbhbofg I am a pet lover and have deeply mourned several of my dear companions. I treasure the memories of them. But, I see "the rainbow bridge" as the equivalent of believing in heaven for humans. As an atheist or agnostic, I would think that you could understand that. Why attack my motives? Let me also add that I have buried two of my dearest companions in my vegetable garden with my own hands, hoping that some of the atoms and molecules that comprised them may become a part of me and my life again. That is love and respect.

Here in Tampa.

Alvinsmama comments on Dec 6, 2018:

I lived in Florida for three years, 2005-2008. Had a landscaping company there. I always said you could spit on the ground and something would grow. The only bad things were the biting bugs and digging a hole for a plant and hitting limestone.

wordywalt replies on Dec 6, 2018:

The garden insect pests and fungi are also bad.

Why is it that a lot of the liberals on this website which constitute an overwhelming majority seem ...

wordywalt comments on Dec 4, 2018:

Your statement is false. Like Lincoln, we believe in government of, by and for ALL of the people. You would do well to believe similarly.

wordywalt replies on Dec 4, 2018:

@Trajan61 What you call "big government" is anything above paying the roads and keeping law and order. Government FOR the people has a legitimate role to paly in serving the interest of ALL of the people. Governments of almost all industrialized nations -- except the USA -- believe that their people are of sufficient value to invest in their health, retirement, and other essential services which help to assure the well being of its people -- its most valuable resource. Why are reactionaries and ultra-conservatives so self-centered and backward?

Guns I would like to hear thoughts from others in this group on their feelings about guns and gun ...

wordywalt comments on Dec 4, 2018:

I am a gun owner and was rated "expert" with the M-1 rifle in the Army. Nevertheless, I believe that all firearms , the primary purpose of which is to kill human beings, should be banned to the civilian population. That includes all automatic weapons of any kind, assault rifles. and all pistols. ...

wordywalt replies on Dec 4, 2018:

@Morganfreeman Australia made it work. I think that we are at least as smart as the Australians.

FACTS ABOUT THE N.

Eriador comments on Dec 2, 2018:

Trying my best figure out what any of that has do with the National Endowment for the Arts. ;)

wordywalt replies on Dec 2, 2018:

@Eriador Sorry for the typo.

FACTS ABOUT THE N.

Eriador comments on Dec 2, 2018:

Trying my best figure out what any of that has do with the National Endowment for the Arts. ;)

wordywalt replies on Dec 2, 2018:

Nothing. I did not claim that it did. So, what is your point?

Active shooter drill at my grandkids school.

wordywalt comments on Nov 29, 2018:

It is a shame that we even have to have active shooter drills simply because the NRA promotes an irresponsible arming of people in public places.

wordywalt replies on Dec 1, 2018:

@darthfaja Why are you still harassing me?

Active shooter drill at my grandkids school.

wordywalt comments on Nov 29, 2018:

It is a shame that we even have to have active shooter drills simply because the NRA promotes an irresponsible arming of people in public places.

wordywalt replies on Dec 1, 2018:

@darthfaja I will not attempt to even answer such aggressively derogatory stupidity!

Active shooter drill at my grandkids school.

wordywalt comments on Nov 29, 2018:

It is a shame that we even have to have active shooter drills simply because the NRA promotes an irresponsible arming of people in public places.

wordywalt replies on Dec 1, 2018:

@darthfaja What is weird is anyone defending the modern behavior of the NRA.

Active shooter drill at my grandkids school.

wordywalt comments on Nov 29, 2018:

It is a shame that we even have to have active shooter drills simply because the NRA promotes an irresponsible arming of people in public places.

wordywalt replies on Dec 1, 2018:

@darthfaja Not to me. To me, it is a matter of truth, morality, and defense of our democracy..

Active shooter drill at my grandkids school.

wordywalt comments on Nov 29, 2018:

It is a shame that we even have to have active shooter drills simply because the NRA promotes an irresponsible arming of people in public places.

wordywalt replies on Nov 30, 2018:

@darthfaja I will be placing two new posts on this site tomorrow on the historical and current facts about the NRA and its behavior. Follow them if you have the guts.

Active shooter drill at my grandkids school.

wordywalt comments on Nov 29, 2018:

It is a shame that we even have to have active shooter drills simply because the NRA promotes an irresponsible arming of people in public places.

wordywalt replies on Nov 30, 2018:

@jorj You would do well to stop exercising defensive and fallacious illogic and to actually seek information.

Active shooter drill at my grandkids school.

wordywalt comments on Nov 29, 2018:

It is a shame that we even have to have active shooter drills simply because the NRA promotes an irresponsible arming of people in public places.

wordywalt replies on Nov 30, 2018:

@jorj You still have not made a valid point.

Active shooter drill at my grandkids school.

wordywalt comments on Nov 29, 2018:

It is a shame that we even have to have active shooter drills simply because the NRA promotes an irresponsible arming of people in public places.

wordywalt replies on Nov 30, 2018:

@darthfaja Your reason could not more logically fallacious or factually incorrect. Of course, the NRA bears much responsibility for gun violence in our country.

Discovery of first genetic variants associated with meaning in life -- ScienceDaily

wordywalt comments on Oct 5, 2018:

That title does not convey an accurate image. What the study really shows is that genetic differences in the neuro-system make a difference in a person's PERCEPTION of meaning in life.

wordywalt replies on Nov 30, 2018:

@Sameasis Please tell me what you are trying to say in a simple statement that is clear in and of itself.

Active shooter drill at my grandkids school.

wordywalt comments on Nov 29, 2018:

It is a shame that we even have to have active shooter drills simply because the NRA promotes an irresponsible arming of people in public places.

wordywalt replies on Nov 30, 2018:

@jorj Stop playing silly games to try to defend the NRA. When I pointed out that Japan has no equivalent of the NRA and has a miniscule rate of gun violence, you did not respond to my point, but threw up a lame issues of differences in family life. In effect, you ceded my point, and tried to throw a smokescreen. Similarly, when I pointed out how the NRA is using huge sums of money to put out false propaganda and to buy corrupt political influence, you did not respond to these issues. Again, by failing to respond to my main point, you ceded the points and tried to throw up a lame smokescreen. Who do you think you are fooling? Maybe yourself?

Active shooter drill at my grandkids school.

wordywalt comments on Nov 29, 2018:

It is a shame that we even have to have active shooter drills simply because the NRA promotes an irresponsible arming of people in public places.

wordywalt replies on Nov 30, 2018:

@jorj Then you have never listened to some of their vicious demagoguery.

Active shooter drill at my grandkids school.

wordywalt comments on Nov 29, 2018:

It is a shame that we even have to have active shooter drills simply because the NRA promotes an irresponsible arming of people in public places.

wordywalt replies on Nov 30, 2018:

@jorj And Japan does not have an NRA pouring hundreds of millions of dollars into propaganda and political influence campaigns to encourage people with a streak of violence in their make-up.

Active shooter drill at my grandkids school.

wordywalt comments on Nov 29, 2018:

It is a shame that we even have to have active shooter drills simply because the NRA promotes an irresponsible arming of people in public places.

wordywalt replies on Nov 30, 2018:

@jorj It is my perception that you are totally off base in suggesting that those factors are more significant in causing gun violence than are the greed driven actions of the NTA. Japanese culture is more into violent videogames than is that of the USA, but they have only a miniscule fraction of gun violence that we do.

Active shooter drill at my grandkids school.

wordywalt comments on Nov 29, 2018:

It is a shame that we even have to have active shooter drills simply because the NRA promotes an irresponsible arming of people in public places.

wordywalt replies on Nov 29, 2018:

@jorj Typographical errors have nothing to do with grammar. I corrected one typographical error.

Active shooter drill at my grandkids school.

wordywalt comments on Nov 29, 2018:

It is a shame that we even have to have active shooter drills simply because the NRA promotes an irresponsible arming of people in public places.

wordywalt replies on Nov 29, 2018:

@darthfaja Please point out any errors in my grammar And, I resent your statement that I am intellectually lazy. That is both false and uncalled for. I criticized your statement validly, as it did not convey the intent you assert. I was criticizing the statement, not you. In turn, your move was not exactly above reproach.

Active shooter drill at my grandkids school.

wordywalt comments on Nov 29, 2018:

It is a shame that we even have to have active shooter drills simply because the NRA promotes an irresponsible arming of people in public places.

wordywalt replies on Nov 29, 2018:

@darthfaja I apologize. But, if we did not have the NRA, we would not have the problem of widespread and increasing gun violence. We do have to stand up to the NTA and to the people who support them. If we banned hand guns and assault weapons (weapons intended primarily to kill people), as Australia did, we would not have such a severe problem.

Active shooter drill at my grandkids school.

wordywalt comments on Nov 29, 2018:

It is a shame that we even have to have active shooter drills simply because the NRA promotes an irresponsible arming of people in public places.

wordywalt replies on Nov 29, 2018:

@darthfaja I am a gun owner, and an expert marksman. But, I would NEVER carry a gun in public. The NRA IS promoting a society of armed people in public, which is inevitably promoting gun violence. I am sorry, but you statement is more stupid than you can imagine. .

Majority Leader (this is a leader?

Freedompath comments on Nov 28, 2018:

O my heavenly days! Is this man, beyond the pale! McConnell is a criminal, pure and simple! Mueller is no clown, so I will hold that thought! This has got to be the most dishonest Administration in HISTORY!

wordywalt replies on Nov 28, 2018:

McConnell was corrupt long before Trump ever appeared on the political scene. Thanks to McConnell's false propaganda for over 20 years, our country is now living under the terrible damage of Citizens United and of the court ruling that in political campaigns corporations are people. His huge damage is simply more insidious than that of the idiot Trump.

So after last nights interesting discussion whats everyones opinion on this ?

wordywalt comments on Nov 28, 2018:

I do not understand trans=sexuality , but will not demean it. I simply do understand the desire to be something that we cannot biologically ever be. I am what I am biologically.

wordywalt replies on Nov 28, 2018:

@Simon1 That should never be forced on a child. This is a sick parent.

Yes I'm spiritual .

wordywalt comments on Nov 28, 2018:

If by spirit you mean attitudes, beliefs, values, developed cognitive structures, or developed patterns of meaning, then say so. There is no need to use a term which carries religious connotations.

wordywalt replies on Nov 28, 2018:

@Cutiebeauty I did not misunderstand you. I just dislike use of the term "spirit". I guess that is my own hang-up..

In the absence of any empirical rules that apply to everyone, each person is free to form her or his...

wordywalt comments on Nov 26, 2018:

I find you moral relativism abhorrent. There can be no civil and democratic society with a base of treating all others with full dignity and respect.

wordywalt replies on Nov 26, 2018:

@TheMiddleWay There are no "god given rules." Nevertheless, there must be real limits on the range of definition of "dignity and respect" if a society is to be civil , just, and democratic.

What is the value of life, the value of morality, the value of science, the value of responsibility,...

wordywalt comments on Nov 23, 2018:

Life, in and of itself, has no value. It simply is. Morality, science, responsibility, helping others, and justice all add value to life through the impact of our thoughts and actions -- as does well grounded critical thinking and decision-making (judgment). The only value that attaches to your ...

wordywalt replies on Nov 24, 2018:

@belfodil Huh? I don't get your point. If you mean that we all die, that is true. So?

What is the value of life, the value of morality, the value of science, the value of responsibility,...

wordywalt comments on Nov 23, 2018:

Life, in and of itself, has no value. It simply is. Morality, science, responsibility, helping others, and justice all add value to life through the impact of our thoughts and actions -- as does well grounded critical thinking and decision-making (judgment). The only value that attaches to your ...

wordywalt replies on Nov 24, 2018:

@belfodil Our thoughts and actions influence others, and they -- in turn -- continue that influence over time and space. Those impacts -- positive or negative -- far outlive us. As a retired educator, I am proud to say that I have influenced the lives of thousands of people directly, and many more indirectly.

What is the value of life, the value of morality, the value of science, the value of responsibility,...

wordywalt comments on Nov 23, 2018:

Life, in and of itself, has no value. It simply is. Morality, science, responsibility, helping others, and justice all add value to life through the impact of our thoughts and actions -- as does well grounded critical thinking and decision-making (judgment). The only value that attaches to your ...

wordywalt replies on Nov 24, 2018:

@belfodil You seem to not understand that it is human thought and action that creates value.

The Kalam Cosmological Argument Debunked.

wordywalt comments on Nov 23, 2018:

Why must here be a beginning? I believe that the ig bang was simply the beginning of an expansion phase of the universe, in an endless cycle of expansion and contraction.

wordywalt replies on Nov 23, 2018:

@maturin1919 My point exactly. If there was never a "nothing", then there was no absolute beginning.

The Kalam Cosmological Argument Debunked.

wordywalt comments on Nov 23, 2018:

Why must here be a beginning? I believe that the ig bang was simply the beginning of an expansion phase of the universe, in an endless cycle of expansion and contraction.

wordywalt replies on Nov 23, 2018:

@maturin1919 There are onsets of cycles, not absolute beginnings, prior to which nothing existed.

Today's multiple developments show clearly the Trump has never had even a fleeting relationship with...

powder comments on Nov 21, 2018:

But but he's a stable genius......

wordywalt replies on Nov 21, 2018:

To anyone who believes that: I have some swamp land here in Florida I would like to sell you.

Today's multiple developments show clearly the Trump has never had even a fleeting relationship with...

lerlo comments on Nov 21, 2018:

But the economy!! :):):)

wordywalt replies on Nov 21, 2018:

Given time, he will screw that up, too.

Safe spaces.

wordywalt comments on Nov 19, 2018:

I am a strong advocate for a battle of ideas. A demagogue should be allowed to speak on a college campus only when he or she faces an opposing speaker who can and will truly debate him or her.

wordywalt replies on Nov 19, 2018:

A demagogue is a demagogue -- a person who espouses extreme ideology, using dogmatic and irrational reasoning without substantive proof or grounding real logic. That is far, far more common on the extreme right.

What will $20 (USD) get me in your hobby?

wordywalt comments on Nov 18, 2018:

You seem to be trying too hard to earn points. Points are not the real point. Meaningful communication is.

wordywalt replies on Nov 18, 2018:

@celticagent I have no agenda. You put your post in public space,. I put my response in public space. I see no problem.

What will $20 (USD) get me in your hobby?

wordywalt comments on Nov 18, 2018:

You seem to be trying too hard to earn points. Points are not the real point. Meaningful communication is.

wordywalt replies on Nov 18, 2018:

@celticagent When you make a post, those of us who read it have the right to respond to what we see. I saw a lot of small, rather insignificant posts that did not add to understanding or communication. That is my honest response. .

In light of developments tonight, I predict that Mueller will issue new indictments on Roger Stone ...

UrsiMajor comments on Nov 16, 2018:

He's been waiting for a bluer Congress. No use indicting if nobody is going to do anything about it.

wordywalt replies on Nov 16, 2018:

You badly underestimate the people of this country. If congress does not act on evidence, our streets will fill with people demonstrating against Trump and the Republicans.

It's time for a different economic system:

wordywalt comments on Nov 14, 2018:

Capitalism has no dogmatic inherent design. At times, it has shown a social conscience and some sense of social responsibility. Unfortunately , that is not happening today.

wordywalt replies on Nov 16, 2018:

@Bakunin You do not seem to know of how good firms work in the social democracies of Europe.

In light of developments tonight, I predict that Mueller will issue new indictments on Roger Stone ...

LiterateHiker comments on Nov 16, 2018:

What new developments are you talking about?

wordywalt replies on Nov 16, 2018:

(1) the indictment against Assange was accidently revealed in a court action in another case, (2) in Mannefort's case, both Mannefort and Mueller's team asked the judge to delay Mannefort's sentencing until late December so that Mannefort would have time to complete giving highly valuable information in the investigation, and (30 comments in another case indicated that some action was imminent.

Deputy National Supervisor forced out today.

wordywalt comments on Nov 14, 2018:

This was a second tier national security protegee of John Bolton; known for a closed mind, a sharp tongue, and a mean streak. She is no loss.

wordywalt replies on Nov 14, 2018:

@AntaresRose He will hang himself yet.

Deputy National Supervisor forced out today.

wordywalt comments on Nov 14, 2018:

This was a second tier national security protegee of John Bolton; known for a closed mind, a sharp tongue, and a mean streak. She is no loss.

wordywalt replies on Nov 14, 2018:

@AntaresRose True.

I am 81 years old, and had not seen my daughters and grandchildren for some time.

HippieChick58 comments on Nov 14, 2018:

I am so happy my kids all live within a half an hour of me and I see them fairly often. I am so glad you had this time with your family. They will cherish the memories long after you're gone, and I hope that is a long time coming. Be well.

wordywalt replies on Nov 14, 2018:

Many thanks!

Rick Scott hasn't even been declared the winner of the election in Florida yet, and he's in DC, with...

wordywalt comments on Nov 14, 2018:

Scott is an arrogant, self-absorbed and morally bankrupt crook. He has used a huge golden parachute from being fired from his health insure company (he led over 1.9 BILLION of medicare fraud) to finance his entire political career. It is amazing to me that anyone could vote for th slimy slug.

wordywalt replies on Nov 14, 2018:

@sweetcharlotte A lot of Florida Republicans did know that. But, too many of them value ideology and political power over truth and morality.

I am 81 years old, and had not seen my daughters and grandchildren for some time.

AmiSue comments on Nov 14, 2018:

Because you reference mortality; I feel that the only afterlife consists of the memories we are a part of, the impact we've made, and the love we shared. We only live on in the people we leave behind. I love that you were able to do what you did. You've both strengthened your legacy and made an ...

wordywalt replies on Nov 14, 2018:

I totally agree.

Did you read 1984?

slydr68 comments on Nov 6, 2018:

At the end of WWII, we took Hitler's playbook and began to study, it seems...

wordywalt replies on Nov 7, 2018:

@slydr68 I am sorry that you perceived an admonition as rude.

Did you read 1984?

slydr68 comments on Nov 6, 2018:

At the end of WWII, we took Hitler's playbook and began to study, it seems...

wordywalt replies on Nov 6, 2018:

It really started in the late 1968s, with the influence of Nixon, Fallwell and the "Moral Majority", and the unified southern reaction to the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Prior to that time, our country's leadership was moving in the really democratic direction after WW II. Study historical facts more closely.

Ever since the appearance of Lee Atwater as an aggressive, untruthful smear campaign specialist, ...

nvrnuff comments on Nov 6, 2018:

Unfortunately, there are so many that refuse to see through the BS.

wordywalt replies on Nov 6, 2018:

True, many don't, but I do believe that even some Republicans are beginning to reject the vicious tripe.

Conservatives, What is it that you don't like about people that are liberals, progressive or social ...

wordywalt comments on Nov 4, 2018:

The viewpoint you describe is pure false, demagogic bull shit! manufactured by reactionaries trying to con the public.

wordywalt replies on Nov 4, 2018:

@maturin1919 Yes, some demagogic and reactionary ideologues do hold such opinions. But, how they arrive at such erroneous conclusions is NOT irrelevant. It IS the point for reasoning people.

Conservatives, What is it that you don't like about people that are liberals, progressive or social ...

wordywalt comments on Nov 4, 2018:

The viewpoint you describe is pure false, demagogic bull shit! manufactured by reactionaries trying to con the public.

wordywalt replies on Nov 4, 2018:

@maturin1919 To be realisti c, one should never expect a reactionary demagogue to be truthful.

Why are people are so unkind? What are the biological benefits to being horrible to other humans?

rob2691 comments on Nov 2, 2018:

I am reading the book The Selfish Gene by Richard Dawkins. In it he argues that all organisms are simply vehicles for the genes they contain. The objective of the genes/set of genes that coexist (in one body), is to survive and multiply (by having children). This process of survival is often faced ...

wordywalt replies on Nov 3, 2018:

At the level of the individual, vicious selfishness may help that individual and his or her offspring to survive. But, at a species level, social cooperation and compassion are much more important.

Be prepared for some significant developments in the Mueller probe shortly after the election.

gater comments on Oct 31, 2018:

Those that dont realize what a great president we have are just stupid.

wordywalt replies on Nov 1, 2018:

@gater Your senseless comments prove my point. Like the idiot Trump, you, you attempt to attach denigrating false labels to insult and quell people who disagree with you. That is a character flaw you sharewith him. My last retort, as arguing with a fool is senseless. One cannot reason with an irrational person.

Be prepared for some significant developments in the Mueller probe shortly after the election.

gater comments on Oct 31, 2018:

Those that dont realize what a great president we have are just stupid.

wordywalt replies on Nov 1, 2018:

@gater Unlike you, I have studied political science in graduate school and have continued to study political topics and issues over decades. I see no knowledge basis for your remarks or views. Anyone who supports Donald Trump is either a person enthralled with the culture of greed, who admires corruption, is a bigot, and.or or is so lacking in knowledge that he or she is damned gullible.

Be prepared for some significant developments in the Mueller probe shortly after the election.

gater comments on Oct 31, 2018:

Those that dont realize what a great president we have are just stupid.

wordywalt replies on Oct 31, 2018:

Your grammar is almost as bad as your judgment. It should be "those who" and not "those that."

Atheist = Depressed?

wordywalt comments on Oct 23, 2018:

No data exist that link atheism with depression.

wordywalt replies on Oct 24, 2018:

@Stephanie99 Thanks!

Atheist = Depressed?

wordywalt comments on Oct 23, 2018:

No data exist that link atheism with depression.

wordywalt replies on Oct 23, 2018:

@Lucignolo The titles of several of the studies appear to be irrelevant to the topic, and I would have to read the others for me to be satisfied of the validity of their methodology and conclusions. Unfortunately, at age 81, I no longer read well. I would opine that religion, itself, leads to more depression than atheism.

Atheist = Depressed?

wordywalt comments on Oct 23, 2018:

No data exist that link atheism with depression.

wordywalt replies on Oct 23, 2018:

@Lucignolo Your arrogant, defensive response is laughable. Cite me significant and scientifically valid studies which link atheism with depre4ssion and give the title of the study and the journal in which it was published, along with the publication date. As an atheist since my 20s, I always found freedom from religion freeing and positive, rather than depressing. I find it difficult to believe those most people feel otherwise.

Even though Fall weather has not quite reached us yet in Florida, Fall is my favorite time of year.

HippieChick58 comments on Oct 14, 2018:

Well, I did until we got snow today :(

wordywalt replies on Oct 14, 2018:

@HippieChick58 My sentiments, exactly!

Even though Fall weather has not quite reached us yet in Florida, Fall is my favorite time of year.

HippieChick58 comments on Oct 14, 2018:

Well, I did until we got snow today :(

wordywalt replies on Oct 14, 2018:

After over 4 months of persistently 90 + degree weather, I would welcome a little snow. As I get older I tolerate cold better than heat.

What is "Compartmentalization" with regard to religion?

wordywalt comments on Oct 11, 2018:

These people are choosing to think differently in regard to different sectors of their lives. Down deep, they know that their ways of thinking about these different sectors are incompatible, but their compartmentialization enables them to avoid the discomfort of having to face the conflict. It is ...

wordywalt replies on Oct 14, 2018:

@Matias Those who compartmentalize will almost always deny that they are doing it.

Is the solution to "hate speech" more speech or less speech?

wordywalt comments on Oct 13, 2018:

It is neither. Instead, it is a demand for civility in speech, backed by an equal demand for responsibility for consequences of your words, and for proof of a factual basis of your assertions.

wordywalt replies on Oct 13, 2018:

So, apparently you are in favor of hate speech and feel that it has something to contribute to dialogue. If that is so, you are not a person I want to know.

What is "Compartmentalization" with regard to religion?

wordywalt comments on Oct 11, 2018:

These people are choosing to think differently in regard to different sectors of their lives. Down deep, they know that their ways of thinking about these different sectors are incompatible, but their compartmentialization enables them to avoid the discomfort of having to face the conflict. It is ...

wordywalt replies on Oct 13, 2018:

@Matias I am saying no such thing. You are putting false words in my mouth.

What is "Compartmentalization" with regard to religion?

wordywalt comments on Oct 11, 2018:

These people are choosing to think differently in regard to different sectors of their lives. Down deep, they know that their ways of thinking about these different sectors are incompatible, but their compartmentialization enables them to avoid the discomfort of having to face the conflict. It is ...

wordywalt replies on Oct 13, 2018:

@Matias As Hermann Hesse pointed out in his STEPPENWOLF, we are all a bundle of contradictions. Most people do not want to recognize -- much less, face -- that fact. To keep from dealing with that fact, they compartmentalize.It is the most aware, intelligent, and truly independent of us who choose to face and deal with the fact of our contradictions..

What is "Compartmentalization" with regard to religion?

wordywalt comments on Oct 11, 2018:

These people are choosing to think differently in regard to different sectors of their lives. Down deep, they know that their ways of thinking about these different sectors are incompatible, but their compartmentialization enables them to avoid the discomfort of having to face the conflict. It is ...

wordywalt replies on Oct 12, 2018:

@Matias Your attempt at an analogy simply does not make sense, and bears no resemblance to reality..

An interesting development concerning Kavanaugh: Forbes: Chief Justice Roberts Requests Tenth ...

wordywalt comments on Oct 11, 2018:

I am gaining some respect for Roberts's ethics, even though I do not often agree with his ideology. At least he is doing what the gutless Republicans in the senate refused to do.

wordywalt replies on Oct 11, 2018:

@of-the-mountain We'll find out.

Will be planting my fall-winter garden this weekend -- cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, green beans, ...

Cast1es comments on Oct 10, 2018:

What are bean beans , is this something new ?

wordywalt replies on Oct 10, 2018:

sorry for the typo.

Okay.

wordywalt comments on Sep 24, 2018:

Perhaps you have learned that labeling a person with a disgusting label creates unneeded heat, but no light. If you think a person is wrong and/or deceptive, destroy his argument with logic and facts. Label his deceitfulness for what it is. That is all that is needed. You went too far.

wordywalt replies on Oct 2, 2018:

@onlyduh Your retorts in this exchange are only slightly less ridiculous than your overall demeanor toward others.

Unpopular Opinions I know you got 'em, what are they?

wordywalt comments on Oct 1, 2018:

I have many opinions unpopular among conservatives and among religious people.

wordywalt replies on Oct 1, 2018:

@maturin1919 The differences are too numerous to list.

Do atheists, who find no magic in the world, live drab, boring lives, by comparison?

wordywalt comments on Sep 29, 2018:

Hell, no! We find beauty and joy in the real world and in human relationships.

wordywalt replies on Sep 29, 2018:

@CallMeDave They certainly are not: They are much better and much more.

Fellow group members: Much of the stuff posted here is really great and needs to be seen by ...

RobertNappi2 comments on Sep 26, 2018:

Let's hit them with a blue wave come November...I'm Registered to vote R U? Looking forward to the day this group can be disbanded because we got this IDIOT out of office!!!!!

wordywalt replies on Sep 26, 2018:

Damned straight11

Fellow group members: Much of the stuff posted here is really great and needs to be seen by ...

Our_existence comments on Sep 26, 2018:

I agree, but some groups have no political/religious bans. Some people get very hostile with such posts, and then there are those who think they are Agnostic police and block members or try to get people thrown off the site. Then there are members who get just down right nasty. It's a no win ...

wordywalt replies on Sep 26, 2018:

We can act to see that people who act so viciously and inappropriately are banned from the siteve done that before and am willing to tolerate their abuse to do it again.

Fellow group members: Much of the stuff posted here is really great and needs to be seen by ...

HippieChick58 comments on Sep 26, 2018:

Thank you @wordywalt!!! I love this group, we have so much fun doing what we do best! I appreciate your thoughts and all that you add to this group. Fellow members, we are having fun, but never forget: WE ARE THE RESISTANCE.

wordywalt replies on Sep 26, 2018:

Hear, hear dear lady!!

Trump says that the only doctrine that America embraces is patriotism.

HippieChick58 comments on Sep 26, 2018:

Patriotism is eternal vigilance of your government.

wordywalt replies on Sep 26, 2018:

Agreed!! Patriots take substantial efforts to sweep repugnant scoundrels and treacherous people like Trump out of office ASAP!

Fellow group members: Much of the stuff posted here is really great and needs to be seen by ...

RobertNappi2 comments on Sep 26, 2018:

Let's hit them with a blue wave come November...I'm Registered to vote R U? Looking forward to the day this group can be disbanded because we got this IDIOT out of office!!!!!

wordywalt replies on Sep 26, 2018:

I will receive my ballot by mail this week and will have voted by mail long before the election date.

I grew up in the Southern conservative (if not reactionary), patriarchal culture, but a lifetime of...

weeman comments on Sep 25, 2018:

stockholm syndrome is a fcking reality for many

wordywalt replies on Sep 26, 2018:

You are too forgiving. You are providing a rationalization when there really is none.

I grew up in the Southern conservative (if not reactionary), patriarchal culture, but a lifetime of...

HippieChick58 comments on Sep 25, 2018:

I cannot fathom how any woman today could be part of the Repbulifuck Party, the Gross Old Pricks party. Stepford Wives maybe. I just cannot comprehend.

wordywalt replies on Sep 25, 2018:

I fully agree. No women with any intelligence, sense of independent judgment, courage, and self-respect can consider herself a Republican.

If only they'd open their eyes.

Charlene comments on Sep 24, 2018:

Yes this..not just him, that entire "party" are engaged in this fraudulent economic policy..begun by Ronnie Raygun.

wordywalt replies on Sep 24, 2018:

he "trickle down" myth haws been a part of Republican ideology for over a century. Reagan was simply carrying on the charade.

Okay.

wordywalt comments on Sep 24, 2018:

Perhaps you have learned that labeling a person with a disgusting label creates unneeded heat, but no light. If you think a person is wrong and/or deceptive, destroy his argument with logic and facts. Label his deceitfulness for what it is. That is all that is needed. You went too far.

wordywalt replies on Sep 24, 2018:

@OpposingOpposum I speak German fluently. And, in the context of the discussion, the phrase, "your mileage may vary" is meaningless to me. That is simply a statement of fact.

Okay.

wordywalt comments on Sep 24, 2018:

Perhaps you have learned that labeling a person with a disgusting label creates unneeded heat, but no light. If you think a person is wrong and/or deceptive, destroy his argument with logic and facts. Label his deceitfulness for what it is. That is all that is needed. You went too far.

wordywalt replies on Sep 24, 2018:

@onlyduh That makes about as much sense as four random letters do.

Okay.

wordywalt comments on Sep 24, 2018:

Perhaps you have learned that labeling a person with a disgusting label creates unneeded heat, but no light. If you think a person is wrong and/or deceptive, destroy his argument with logic and facts. Label his deceitfulness for what it is. That is all that is needed. You went too far.

wordywalt replies on Sep 24, 2018:

@onlyduh I don't text. What do those initials mean?