Hi, Horse.
I've read your post three times now. I can't see where we substantially
disagree on the issue of government, provided we are using the same
dictionary;-)
The administration by the State of the means of production, putatively
owned by People, is how I define socialism.
I have yet to see a socialist economy that is not run by a nanny State,
mainly because a true socialist economy doesn't work for real people and
the State must coerce the People into behaving against their nature.
Ironically, it is, as far as I know, universally true that the people
who exercise the power of the State are only rarely constrained by the
rules the rest of us poor schmucks have to live by.
For example, I give you the "most ethical administration in history"
here in America.
> Whilst still remaining
> individualistic you retain a
> strong sense of collective/social responsibility.
It is voluntary. Not coerced. I am not morally obligated to fund other
people's poor planning and/or willful ignorance. Or laziness. I am more
than happy to lend a hand to those who are trying or who absolutely
can't help themselves.
> Empowering the state is an active process. The actual process is on a
> more passive basis
> as the state will take what it can when it can - public apathy,
> stupidity, fear and greed aids this process.
Sounds like Lowi's take on power. The biggest influence of my political
education was Theodore Lowi's Poli-Sci textbook.
> If you want the continuance of the benefits of Libertarianism then it is > necessary that a limited form of
> government is accepted in order that a base level of order exists.
Highlight "limited." Capitalize it. I believe we can and must ensure
equality of opportunity; guaranteeing equality of result is something
I'm not willing to try. It can't work. It hasn't worked.
I believe that Quality is much easier to perceive in a dynamic society.
I haven't had time to read Chomsky, but I will. It may be a while before
I do, though.
I am currently reading Paul Davies and a couple of books on Eastern
thought. 50 hour work weeks, three teenage kids and maintaining decent
marital relations limit my leisure time activities.
Be well!
drose
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