"Power always thinks it has a great soul, and vast views, beyond the comprehension of the weak; and that it is doing God service, when it is violating all His laws. Our passions, ambition, avarice, love, resentment, etc., possess so much metaphysical subtlety, and so much overpowering eloquence, that they insinuate themselves into the understanding and the conscience, and convert both to their party."
Does Adams' statement have any relationship to what happened in 2008 in America?
On the other hand, are the following questions pertinent to our examination of the competing philosophies mentioned in this thread:
Is liberty of imperfect individuals in a society more compatible with the philosophy underlying our Declaration of Independence? - OR
Is coercive control by imperfect individuals in government over all other imperfect individuals in a society more compatible with its underlying philosophy?
Its foundational principles encourage individual benevolence, meekness, etc. Where in those teachings is use of coercive power over the lives of others encouraged?
Do imperfect individuals who gain coercive power by election to posts in government somehow become more virtuous and wise than likewise imperfect individuals in the society?
Search for truth about our Constitution's underlying principles.
"Progressives" have no weapon that can defeat truth, once it is understood by ordinary citizens.
Don't advocate violating principles. That is counterproductive.
Just as Divine Providence was claimed by the Founders to have overseen their "experiment in liberty," so may today's efforts be consistent with "the Blessing of Liberty" they sought to protect.
Excellent post.
Many ancient and medieval texts, treatises of the philosphers who influenced our Framers, memoirs of our Founders/Framers, colonial charters, debates, long out of print 19th century political science texts . . . all online.
Taken together they show how our Declaration and Constitution represent the apogee of Western political thought and practice.
‘F the memory of Howard Zinn.
A great composition; thanks.
Excellent Post.. Thank you!
Bookmark.