Conservatives realize the need to limit government

The Olympian ^ | January 21, 2003 | Kristopher Tefft

[RaginCajunTrad]

It is an extraordinary time to write about the current events that dominate our news.

For instance, our executive, a handmaiden of powerful special interests, is nearing war with two hostile and irrational dictatorships. And that is merely Gov. Gary Locke fielding criticism for his budget from the Washington Education Association and Washington State Labor Council, to say nothing about national news.

[KC Burke]

I like where he eventually gets his arguement around to, but I don't like the choice of words he starts out with:
A conservative is a person who believes the fundamental purpose of human existence is to lead a happy life and that it is the responsibility of the individual, with his or her family, and through his or her voluntary associations -- churches, service organizations, trade associations -- to cultivate the fruits of his or her happiness, and to help others in need.

"Happiness" is sentimentality, not true sentiment based on a recognition of virtue. I was always taught that part of modernity and self-centeredness's problem was a false quest for "happiness" and that, truely, happiness was a mere by-product of "Right Living."

Happiness, like "satisfaction" can be awful short sighted and illusionary. Virtues over Values, I always say.

[jpsb]

We need a leader and a party. Bush ain't the leader and the GOP ain't the party.

[Burkeman1]

Great read. I am still laughing at the "Blackjack" Bill Bennett line!

[billbears]

bump for this afternoon

[Korth]

Good article, thanks for the ping.