Thoughts on Politics

Disclaimer - The goal here is not to support the political views or actions of late. I am motivitated at this point merely to understand their reasoning; right or wrong. In most of these matters, reasonable, logical cases can be made for both sides of seemingly opposite courses of action. War and death has a way of making even the most pedestrian of citizens warrant their desires and question their leaders .

On an asside; The Lord of the Rings, although largly considered a work of fantasy, very much addresses these real-world issues. I liked it most when in the extended edition DVD set, someone said that via applicability, LOTR in many ways is more grounded than other fiction (and some non-fiction), because it is afforded the ability to address that which is taboo. (I'm paraphrasing, and hope to find the time to peg down this quote later)

Regarding my bias and affilitation

I am not nieve enough to believe myself free of bias. However, I hold no affiliation with any political party. In most cases, I agree with the morality of the right, and the practicality of the left. In this manner I am "middle of the road", but please do not take this to mean that I am unsolid in by thought or stance. My chosen place in politics lies closest to that of the Libertarian party.

Why Presidents Justify their Pursuit of Oil (Thought)

For quite some time I have been under the impression that politicians lie as a means of persuit of power, fed only by personal greed. Although this certainly is motivation for some, I've recently come to realize that very few people think of themselves and greedy or evil. What, then, may be going through our politicians heads? After some analysis, I have come up with this:

DISCLAIMER: Haven't decided if I agree with this; but for once I understand that their logic may go along the following lines.

1) Looking out for the good of the world's people is the primay objective of the precendency.

2) Preserving democracy is essential to the good of the world.

3) Preserving the U.S. existance is essential to preserving democracy.

4) Preserving the U.S. power is essential to preserving it's existance.

5) Preserving the U.S. economy is essential to preserving U.S. power.

6) Preserving the consumer spending power is essential to preserving the U.S. economy.

7) Minimalizing consumer staple goods expenses is essential to preserving consumer spending

especially in a time when there is so small of a margin; thanks in part to consumer debt.

8) Preserving low gas prices is essential to minimalizing consumer staple good prices.

9) Acquiring control/influence of gas resources is essential to preserving low gas prices.

In Summary: (Substitude the word "relies upon" for each arrow).
World Good -> Democracy -> USA Existance -> USA Power -> USA Economy -> Consumer Spending -> Low prices of staple goods -> Low Gas Prices

Why Politicians Lie

They're argument may go something like this:

1) Power is essential to world's best interests. (See above.)

2) Public support is essential to maintain power.

3) Appealing to masses is required for public support.

4) Lying is essential to appeal to the masses.

Why else is every President devotely and publicly religious?

The morality and judgement of the people are the only reigns on a President's actions. - Paraphrased from Jerome W. Tiefert (Father)

The silliness of quartlery earnings report.

(And the future downfall)

Why else would companies lay-off whilst earning record revenue? - Forgotten article either on slashdot or in Fortune magazine, on or about Dec 19, 2003