BLOG NUMBER 60; DEC. 28, 2012. POLITICS

On Being Political

Acting according to selfish aims or the interests of authority within a group or organization rather than to those interests that pertain to 'matters of principal'. We witness this often in our parliaments where ‘eager to please’ representatives vote for Party line rather than the needs and wishes of their constituents. From the term ‘political’ a whole range of concepts arises:

·   Political action - where groups lobby to influence legislation.

·   Political activism - writing letters to the media or politicians; street marches, sit-ins, boycotts and strikes to support all types of causes.

·   Political correctitude – where individuals take great care to avoid actions or words that are perceived to be derogatory or offensive to various groups or individuals.

·   Political philosophy – tries to answer questions such as what makes a government legitimate or what rights and freedoms it should protect for those governed. As a discipline, it may analyze and provide insight into state organization and laws.

·   Political asylum - where protection is granted by a nation to an individual who has escaped the tyranny of his native state.
·   Political corruption -  where dictators or government officials use power to achieve private gain or repression of opposition.

Political Science - Are you serious? 

Political Motivation

It is fairly simple thing to understand the rise of a dictator in a third world country. People deprived of the basic necessities of life are easily exploited and a selfish man can ensure a ‘king like’ existence by taking advantage of the situation. In my mind a perfect example of this can be found in Zimbabwe under the long tenure of Robert Mugabe  who lives in a $6M dollar palace while his countrymen, outside of his corrupt circle of ‘pilot fish’, live in shacks.

In North Korea, Kim Jong-un stays in power to feed his enormous, inherited ego.  His people are brainwashed and exploited to the glory of the state, his state. Another example of egomania can be found in the civil strife that is raging in Syria.  The ‘Arab Spring’ provides us with examples of how politicians are motivated through ‘Religion’.

Reality

There can be no understanding of why any individual would want to be a politician in Canada. Oh sure we all have ‘a mind’s eye’ when it comes to dreaming of the well-organized, well-run nation. I have several ideas that would work for the betterment of the city of Toronto, the province of Ontario and, yes, the Canadian nation. I have no ambition to become a politician in order to further them. It is enough to pour them forth onto my dear wife or any friend who will listen to my ranting for longer than fifteen seconds. Also I detest our parliamentary system and the concept behind it; not to mention all the skeletons in my closet that would make ideal fodder for vultures in the media.

Canadian Politics

Here we have a Prime Minister who is educated, intelligent, somewhat charismatic and well thought of by other nations. He governs a country that is, admittedly, too large with too many government ministries, public sector workers, unions and native chiefs.  His efforts are largely effective and, as Canadians, we enjoy a very good life-style with a sharing and caring spirit.

What does he get for his efforts?

1.  Thomas Mulcair, the Quebec Cap & Trade dude, who is critical of everything while touting failed policies and contributing nothing but a target for a well-aimed fist.

2.  Bob Rae, somewhat intelligent but limited in his grasp of economics and growth. Flunked out in         Ontario.

3.  Elizabeth May, who wants to make the country 'GREEN', criticizes Harper's withdrawal from Kyoto but ignores the fact that CHINA & the US, THE TWO BIGGEST POLLUTING COUNTRIES, don’t participate. 

4.  Charlie Angus, the long-standing NDP rep from Timmins-James Bay, who blames the feds for the plight of Atawapiskat. Meanwhile this community of approximately 2500 people is governed by a chief, a deputy chief and 12 councillors. This community has received $90 million dollars in federal grants since 2006. HEY CHARLIE, WHERE'D THE MONEY GO?

5.   Pat Martin, the NDP rep from Winnipeg Centre, whining because he missed a photo op in his riding during a conservative announcement. Resorts to profanity on twitter an is forced to apologize.

6.   BLAH BLAH BLAH. Bellmore says...... 

 

Why do I ask?

Name your favorite politician. Anyone?...Anyone?

Quote of the day: 

"A fool and his money are soon elected."-Will Rogers 

Laurels to:  Peter Peart, Gunnar Mines

Great Bird of Prey

Husband, father, grandfather-well loved; Teacher-well respected; Author-acclaimed by his children; Lover of Shakespeare, Military Heroes, and, sadly, Golf; Tormenter of the Cassman; Loyal Friend to those who are worthy Seeker of Truth and Knowledge; Foul Passer of Wind; Master of the Smart-mouthed Quip and Land Baron of Kingston Ontario. 

 Lets drink to the Great Bird! 

Lemons to:   Piers Morgan, CNN,

                               

                                             

for crossing the line between moderator and opinionator. While his opinions were largely valid; it is not acceptable to rant on, interrupt, argue with or talk over a panelist.

If he chooses to rant that is ok; however, having thus chosen, he should appear by himself, alone on his show.

The Clip: