Ken Hurley
Rudeness is the weak man’s imitation of strength. – Eric Hoffer
We are all born rude. No infant has ever appeared yet with the grace to understand how inconsiderate it is to disturb others in the middle of the night. – Miss Manners
I’d love to change the world But I don’t know what to do So I’ll leave it up to you. – Alvin Lee
When small men begin to cast big shadows, it means that the sun is about to set. – Lin Yutang
But he does know what he is doing. You just don’t like it. – The Inner Voice
The Mariana Trench is a child’s wading pool compared to the uncivil chasm that separates Americans. Our rules of governance have been irreparably altered by those too fearful to say no to a leader who seems to be in a cognitive trap of demented ignorance, incapable of feeling empathy, hell bent on hate-filled revenge, and to quote Ian Anderson, is as, “thick as a brick.” Although, he will insist he’s the best brick.
The man who now sits in the oval office is a convicted fraudster, sexual predator, lapdog of Vladimir Putin, found liable by a preponderance of evidence for sexual abuse and defamation. This man was able to convince millions of Americans that “stop the steal” meant the election of 2020 must be overturned by all means. The widening vulgar chasm separates deadly ideologues, malevolent maniacs, and wealthy suck-ups from those who still want to believe hope, prosperity, and integrity can be found at home and around the globe when we show what it means to care for humanity. Yet, Americans chose the former in a democratic fashion. The man told us he would be a dictator. Look at all the federal agencies he seeks to dismantle: FEMA, the Department of Education, the IRS, the FBI, the IGs, CDC, FDA, NIH, HHS, DIA, and USAID to name some. This man is reorganizing the United States government to benefit and serve the ultra wealthy. He is the billionaire bully leader of those kingmakers who want to rule an aristocratic oligarchy: Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, Jeff Bezos, Peter Thiel, Blake Masters, David Sacks, Joe Lonsdale, Jacob Helberg, and Doug Leone, to name some. We once fought a revolution to rid ourselves of a tyrannical plutocracy. If we were a foreign country, the CIA would intervene to topple the current regime.
This is a human-made disaster like no other in decades. The United States is governed by a villainous, deceitful, manipulative, lying, unpredictable, con-man. A felon who now has the distinct privilege of being above the law. A man who encourages and rewards defiant lawlessness, as evidenced by either a pardon or a commutation of the sentences for the deadly seditious insurrectionists. The treasonous Jan 6 rioters who were tried, convicted, and imprisoned, now wear their release as a badge of honor. Want more evidence? Look at USAID. The damage this administration can do to peace and security at home and around the world is indescribable and will serve to deepen the chasm of chaotic ruin. Remember learning about the Great Fire of Rome, 64 AD? Well, now it’s literally Southern California and figuratively the rest of the world; all the while, this arrogant administration smirks, scoffs, and vilifies anyone who is bold enough to say no to their malicious vengeful desires.
A Fox News propagandist, Jessie Walters, when he learned of the statement of President 47 to reclaim the Panama Canal, rename the Gulf of Mexico, take control of Canada and Greenland, said, “The fact that Canada does not want us to take them over makes me want to quench my imperialistic thirst.” We were taught about the Monroe Doctrine. Welcome to the Donnyroe Doctrine.
One of the primary arguments in favor of American imperialism centers on “economic benefits” as stated by 47. Proponents point to the acquisition of new markets and resources as crucial drivers of economic growth for the United States. For example, the 1898 Spanish-American War resulted in the acquisition of the territories Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines, opening new markets for American goods and providing access to valuable resources for the United States. The construction of the Panama Canal, facilitated by American intervention in Panama’s secession from Colombia, significantly reduced shipping times and boosted international trade, benefiting our economy. This economic expansion fueled industrial growth, created jobs, and improved the overall standard of living in the United States. The acquisition of Hawaii was driven by the sugar industry’s interests and tariffs that created less expensive competition. Hawaii wanted to avoid the tariffs. So, Hawaii agreed to an arrangement with the United States on July 7, 1898 to be annexed. The resolution was signed into law by President William McKinley. Another example of the economic motivations behind American imperialism. International trade has vastly changed in the last 125 years. Unfortunately, the imperialistic tariff mentality of a rogue president remains fixed in the past. American imperialism supposedly led to the spread of democratic ideals and modernization. Proponents point to the introduction of American political and legal systems in newly acquired territories, along with investments in infrastructure and education. However, the implementation of these systems was often erratic and met with resistance. The introduction of American-style education systems sought to instill so-called American values. However, the coercive nature of imperialistic modernization often disregarded local customs and traditions, leading to cultural disruption and resentment.
Does American imperialism significantly outweigh any perceived benefits? Depends on who you ask. The most significant negative consequence was the exploitation and oppression of colonized populations. The acquisition of territories often involved military conquests, resulting in significant loss of life and widespread destruction. For example, the Philippine-American War (1899-1902), involved brutal fighting and the deaths of tens of thousands of Filipinos, highlighting the violent nature of American expansionism. The suppression of indigenous cultures and the imposition of foreign systems of governance resulted in significant social and political disruption. Today, all we need to do is look at Ukraine to witness the horrors of imperialism. Let’s remember the treatment of Native Americans throughout American history, which also provides a graphic example of the devastating consequences of imperial expansion on indigenous populations, marked by displacement, violence, and cultural destruction. God Bless America. Right? The greatest country ever! Right?
Wrong. There is no such thing as the greatest country ever. And, if there was, it’s likely not the United States of America, given our past performance.
Our interventions in Nicaragua, the Dominican Republic, and Cuba again illustrate the negative consequences of American interference in the internal affairs of other nations. These interventions often undermined democratic processes and created authoritarian regimes, establishing long-term instability and hindered economic development. The legacy of American imperialism serves as a good example to the wannabe conquerors of today, highlighting the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of prioritizing human rights and international cooperation. Do you think Putin cares what a humanist thinks of him? Nope. Do you think President 47 cares what you or I think? Nope. But members of Congress might care about what you or I think regarding public policy issues. As might local lawmakers. Tell them! The phrase, “All politics is local” once had a ring of truism. That was before the light speed that information travels through the Internet.
Since 47 announced his desire to take over Canada and Greenland, why not also include Mexico? In the quest to quench a dry imperialistic thirst, we could solve most of the illegal immigration dilemma, all Mexicans would now be Americans! Why stop with Mexico? Watch out Panama! Our vindictive geo-political despotic arms are flailing like an uncontrollable tantrum a three-year-old might throw when told “No.” Take a peek at the ignominious debacle hotel/casino dealings of President 47 in Panama City nick-named, “Narco-a-Largo.” Another way to look at the vast political and cultural chasm in America is to see that one side has control of the Executive branch, the Legislative branch, the Judicial branch, and the military. These people take the word “fight” literally. Meanwhile, the loyal opposition on the other side of the chasm has attention-seeking, self-proclaimed social media warriors who are fed-up with Meta and X, and now flock to the most recent Internet sensation for their daily release of strong emotional outrage, hackneyed attempts at humor, vicarious experiences, and borrowed memes they plucked from cyberspace — Bluesky! Just like Twitter when it was first introduced, only new and improved because, you know, “decentralization!” Poised to fight within the toxic cesspool of the Internet on Bluesky, the social media soldiers offer opinions, their whereabouts, selfies, a rehash of “Breaking News,” photos of their plate of pre-eaten food, and their willingness to endlessly argue every incorrect statement they can find — mostly with little meaningful influence. These people take the word “fight” figuratively. Hardly an effective approach against people in-charge who have shown they are willing to kill, mame, and break things to get their way, while claiming God is on their side. Such a pleasant sounding name though — Bluesky. Yet both sides of the human chasm compete for similarly marginalized, disgruntled, and frustrated people. In the words of my grandmother’s neighbor who lived down the street, “Oy vey. We in big twabull.”
However, hovering slightly above the metaphorical chasm, are the lovable, affable, always ready with a smile and willing to lend a hand — the Happy Humanists. You know them! Those skeptical secularists who foster ethical behavior and social responsibility. Those affable atheists who emphasize empathy, compassion, and cooperation, and promote a moral framework based on human needs and well-being. You know, those godless goofballs who emphasize reason and critical thinking. You know, those hapless heretics who prioritize evidence-based reasoning and encourage individuals to question assumptions, challenge dogma, and seek knowledge through empirical investigation. Those are the humans who offer a commitment to critical inquiry, promote cognitive curiosity, promote intellectual honesty, and seek to equip individuals with the tools to navigate a complex and rapidly changing world. Especially now, when we have arrived at an unfortunate place on our timeline when Christian Nationalists have the power to govern our secular populace.
In contrast to systems of belief based on faith and borrowed false revelations — humanism encourages a reliance on reason and evidence, leading to more informed decision-making in all aspects of life. The more you know, the better decisions you can make. Seems simple, right?
Humanists strive to create a just and equitable society where everyone has the opportunity to flourish. Our commitment to social justice motivates action to address inequality, promote human rights, and protect the environment. But the nutty religious systems of governance rely on divine commandments and supernatural rewards and punishments. They insist their beliefs are what America needs in order to be governed by those political wonks who publicly pray in Jesus’ name, and ask that you do too. While humanists want to use their version of morality, rooted in real-world human experiences, to pursue a better world for all. All the while the malingeristic religiously motivated technocratic oligarchy and their millions of minions work to widen and deepen the American chasm.
The benefits of humanism encompass honest human needs like shelter, societal reliance, and freedom from fear. Secular governance is the separation of religious institutions from the state, which is a cornerstone of humanist thought. Yet, likely impossible to achieve. I’ve said it before, you can’t drink milk and espresso separately and call it Cappuccino. You cannot separate a person from their shadow. Such as it is with humans — wacky as they are — humans are often guided by their “beliefs,” which has proven to be difficult for humans to separate from their vision of progress.
Humanists argue that our Constitution requires neutrality with respect to religious beliefs, ensuring that all citizens are treated equally regardless of their religious or non-religious affiliations. Herein lies the difficulty with our First Amendment. The notion that religious institutions are on par with the secular world is a big mistake. It was an expeditious effort at religious appeasement when our Constitution was drafted, but hugely problematic now. Remember, we are all born atheists. We are taught to be religious.
The principle of secularism protects individual freedom of conscience, prevents the imposition of religious beliefs on others, and promotes social harmony. It is easy to see the conflict within social harmony and the effort to prevent the imposition of religion on others. Conversely, it is easy to see the conflict within social harmony when religion imposes its beliefs on the secular populace. Too many religious radicals see their lives as doing God’s work — which makes it easy to obfuscate personal responsibility. Yet it is demonstrably clear that the establishment of secular states throughout history has often been accompanied by increased individual liberties, reduced social conflict, and improved political stability. Take a peek at the French Revolution’s emphasis on “laïcité” (secularism). The establishment of secular democracies in many parts of the world demonstrates the positive correlation between secular governance and societal progress. The need for secular governance is particularly crucial in diverse societies where multiple religious and non-religious viewpoints coexist. America is a fine example. Imposing a particular religious belief system on the entire population inevitably leads to discrimination and marginalization of those who do not adhere to that system. In contrast, secular governance provides a framework for peaceful coexistence and possibly mutual respect, ensuring that all citizens are treated equally under the law. The United States, despite its efforts to commit and recommit to the separation of church and state, continues to wrestle with the challenges of balancing religious liberty with secular governance. This is our Sisyphus. Ongoing debates surrounding issues such as school prayer, abortion rights, and the role of religion in public life highlight the importance of upholding the principles of secularism to protect individual liberties and promote social harmony. How are we doing?
Secular governance is also essential for promoting scientific progress and technological innovation. The separation of religious dogma from the state allows for the free pursuit of scientific inquiry without the constraints of religious beliefs. This freedom of inquiry is crucial for advancing knowledge, developing new technologies, and improving the human condition. Think of stem cell research, vaccines, Galileo, and biological evolution, to name a few examples of religious suppression of scientific research. Historically, the suppression of scientific inquiry by religious authorities has hindered progress and led to societal stagnation. In contrast, societies that embrace secular governance and encourage scientific inquiry have often experienced periods of rapid technological advancement and economic growth. Humanism offers a compelling framework for individual fulfillment, social progress, and effective governance. Its emphasis on reason, critical thinking, individual autonomy, ethical behavior, and social responsibility provides a robust foundation for building a just and equitable society. The strong case for secular governance, a cornerstone of humanist thought, is particularly key in a diverse and rapidly changing world. By upholding the principles of secularism, societies can protect individual liberties, promote social harmony, and advance the conditions necessary for humans to thrive. The benefits of humanism are not psychologically naive, vague, nor merely theoretical; they are demonstrably evident in societies that embrace its principles and strive to create a world where reason, compassion, and human well-being are worthy of benevolent bellicosity.
We do not know the depth of the American religious, cultural, political, and neighborly chasm. However, we do know, given the current administration’s reckless, relentless, and remorseless course of action, the American chasm deepens each day 47 and his billionaire buddies wield power over the populace. Hey! World! Care to be annexed? Let’s ask Gaza.
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