Given we are ‘back’ in a place where the ruling elite are wielding 'State’ apparatus against the people, maybe it's about time we started asking: what do we want “The State” to be?
Well, another interesting subject to think about today. Due to a lack of education or being spoiled by too many shiny objects, or both, it seems to me that most Americans do not understand government very well and have been brain washed about the evils of socialism. This essay was a good education.
Hi Julie, I agree. Won’t bore you with my CV but loads of degrees including Ivy League. Teacher for 25 + lawyer. I read Project 2025 and it goes beyond organized crime+ techno. The imperialism stems from both “MUMP” are sadistic malignant narcissists who were both berated by their criminal but rich fathers, weaned on use of physical violence + use racist, white supremacist, bullying, lack of empathy to grab power for $$$ and revenge. How on earth do we stop this tsunami of terror??
I wish I knew an answer, I am hoping they self destruct. Perhaps I should have written "around 49% of Americans" but that was enough to elect into power the very people you describe. Maybe another factor is that the under educated sector feels threatened and are reacting from the limbic system instead of the prefrontal cortex. I think there are probably multiple reasons for the outcome of the last election, so that makes it harder to know how to move forward.
You’re lucky that you don’t live in the US; a state that’s increasingly run by an organized criminal syndicate fueled by dark currencies.
I’m coming to terms with The Way Things Are in this techno-imperialist hellscape. It’s hard not to feel overwhelmed with the magnitude of human suffering ahead of us.
Hi Amber. Unfortunately, the U.K. is increasingly under the influence of oligarchs. Most of our media is owned by oligarchs and we have more lobbyists than ever, trying to privatise our NHS. No doubt there is a global effort to wrestle power back from the people. It will fail. Dramatically so. And in its ashes we can push a more progressive agenda (as happened after the last fascist uprising). My efforts are in part trying to prepare for that time. Thinking about how far we can push it. Can we finally become sustainable? Can we bring an end to poverty? What about universal healthcare for all? At the very least, it keeps me sane.
Years ago, the magazine Foreign Policy published an article about how multiple companies had more power than many countries. The article also explained how digital technology made it possible that these companies could operate from any beach head and, therefore, no allegiance to any country. The social contract once solved those issues. People, governments, and businesses (corporations) had an unspoken and spoken agreements to work together for the common good. Yet, now the social contract pursuit is dead in America. It briefly was real but then greed, religion, and bigotry destroyed its chances of full realization. America is a failed state to me. Not like Egypt or North Korea or Russia, but failed.
Hard to disagree, Yuri. Perhaps I would say that the hyperconsumerism of the U.S. as a way of ruling a country is a completely failed experiment. The attempt to maintain individual liberty while ensuring social cohesion remains a noble endeavour. As yet though, we are waiting for the hero nation to emerge.
I appreciate this step back to the basics. Why do we even have/want/need the state? Is the state simply what we are calling the organizing rules and principals that govern a society? If the purpose is to provide increased security and protection against dangers for individuals then most (all?) of the states in the world are failing. We have all been indoctrinated into the idea that people require competition and thrive only when there is an enemy. This is a very patriarchal, capitalist viewpoint. Couldn’t humanity be motivated by helping others rather than by surpassing others? Rather than wasting huge resources with companies, nations, etc competing those same resources applied to a common goal could produce a profound improvement in meeting the basic needs of all people. In the US we are now experiencing what happens when the majority of people are convinced to fight for the scraps from the few. The obvious difficulty is how to get from where we are now to a place where “the state” is actually improving lives.
Dan, this discussion is absolutely necessary, especially when looking at the current state of the United States. The system, at its core, was never meant for true equality, let alone diversity, equity, and inclusion. It was designed to ensure that powerful, wealthy, white, pseudo-Christian men could fulfill their own version of the American Dream. And that’s exactly what we’re seeing play out now.
Your focus on the well-being of the people is crucial, and I agree that it’s vital for any state to support its citizens. And for me, there’s something more pressing: the issue of human dignity. The post-WWII establishment of both the UN Charter of Human Rights (never ratified by the US) and the German Basic Law placed human dignity at the top of their frameworks. But right now, that dignity is being trampled by a regime that has no one iota respect for it, and by lawmakers who either support this system or remain passive in the face of it. Silence is complicity.
I believe now is the time to rethink and rebuild the framework for America.
The current system has never been about human dignity or fairness—it was built on moral and economic control by a few. But a new framework, one built on dignity, equity, and collective power, could transform the nation into something that truly represents self-determination, shared prosperity, and inclusivity for all.
This is my moonshot: I may not be American, but I have a vision of what could be built—one that drives every thought and response I offer. A country founded not on the illusion of democracy but on actual self-determination. A country where human dignity is not a privilege but a birthright, and where equity and inclusion are the very foundation.
I believe the collapse of the old system isn’t just a loss—it’s an opportunity, but only if enough people stop looking back and begin imagining a new future. What if instead of fighting to restore something broken, we use this moment to build something that can’t be easily dismantled?
It’s not easy, but I believe you, Dan, can contribute to raise awarenes about the magnitude of what’s happening.
The world isn’t paying attention yet, and that silence only empowers the current regime. This can’t just be about surviving or resisting what’s crumbling; it would be helpful if you all it would be about creating something new from what will remain on day.
You have ignored the fact that humans are instinctively tribal, which informs a lot of the reasons we have not achieved a single global State. I think, because of that, it's unlikely we ever will. People will always need a focus around which to build their tribe, and tribal rivalry is a powerful motivating factor for many. Sport of course offers an effective outlet, but still relies on team/tribe loyalty. The important thing is to steer that loyalty and rivalry into peaceful activities (sport) rather than violent conflict.
Hi Rick. The evidence does not support the “tribal” fixed mindset viewpoint. No doubt we can become narrow in our field of vision regarding “others”. But the propensity of humans is to get on with each other. Not sure we need a single global state, but the necessity to get along with each other is hardwired for most of us.
I think the state is the second tier of governance (the world being the first). It is a human system where people participate two activities - politics and business activity. Both of these need defining also; politics is the collective quest fir good governance (i.e. not a competition to control the state masquerading as democracy - or worse) and business is the way groups of people create the common wealth (as in earn a right livelihood by creating things of value, not maximising shareholder wealth at everyone else’s expense). In this definition of the state it is voluntary but involves duties and responsibilities (Hobbesian) which need sanctions - peer pressure cause by a new paradigm being one of the them. See my work on this at https://brianfishhope.com/overview
By the way its not socialist, its is anchored in what we know about human nature…there will be hierarchy but the “silverbacks” will be kept in check. I don’t have a problem with people pooling money for business and “gamifying” it so some people do well, so long as like at the “bottom” allows human thriving and a fulfilling life (Rawls)
This is the first time I’ve seen the argument for an intelligent ‘civilisation’ as something to reach for with or without a ‘state’ (or presumably ‘states’). If I’ve understood it correctly, I think this shift is the terrifying but necessary next step as a species. It’s either that or - Varoufarkis was right - technofuedalism
So well put, as always, Perry. I found it profoundly moving that Indigenous Americans had taken great effort to maintain individual freedoms. They may obey an order to maintain social order but there is no compulsion to do so. It is why no dominant kingdom pervaded, until they were ethnically cleansed. Not sure if you’ve read “The Dawn of Everything”, but it is one of the most profound accounts of civilisation I have ever read.
Well, another interesting subject to think about today. Due to a lack of education or being spoiled by too many shiny objects, or both, it seems to me that most Americans do not understand government very well and have been brain washed about the evils of socialism. This essay was a good education.
Indeed. When this fascist uprising comes to an end we really do need to revisit education and boost it for all!
Education is in your "do it later" pile? Seriously? A third of the population is functionally illiterate. Pay attention.
Hi Julie, I agree. Won’t bore you with my CV but loads of degrees including Ivy League. Teacher for 25 + lawyer. I read Project 2025 and it goes beyond organized crime+ techno. The imperialism stems from both “MUMP” are sadistic malignant narcissists who were both berated by their criminal but rich fathers, weaned on use of physical violence + use racist, white supremacist, bullying, lack of empathy to grab power for $$$ and revenge. How on earth do we stop this tsunami of terror??
It will implode. Keep calling the evil out.
I wish I knew an answer, I am hoping they self destruct. Perhaps I should have written "around 49% of Americans" but that was enough to elect into power the very people you describe. Maybe another factor is that the under educated sector feels threatened and are reacting from the limbic system instead of the prefrontal cortex. I think there are probably multiple reasons for the outcome of the last election, so that makes it harder to know how to move forward.
You’re lucky that you don’t live in the US; a state that’s increasingly run by an organized criminal syndicate fueled by dark currencies.
I’m coming to terms with The Way Things Are in this techno-imperialist hellscape. It’s hard not to feel overwhelmed with the magnitude of human suffering ahead of us.
Hi Amber. Unfortunately, the U.K. is increasingly under the influence of oligarchs. Most of our media is owned by oligarchs and we have more lobbyists than ever, trying to privatise our NHS. No doubt there is a global effort to wrestle power back from the people. It will fail. Dramatically so. And in its ashes we can push a more progressive agenda (as happened after the last fascist uprising). My efforts are in part trying to prepare for that time. Thinking about how far we can push it. Can we finally become sustainable? Can we bring an end to poverty? What about universal healthcare for all? At the very least, it keeps me sane.
It's always been run by a crime syndicate. The "founders" were enslaving, genocidal, British oligarchs.
Years ago, the magazine Foreign Policy published an article about how multiple companies had more power than many countries. The article also explained how digital technology made it possible that these companies could operate from any beach head and, therefore, no allegiance to any country. The social contract once solved those issues. People, governments, and businesses (corporations) had an unspoken and spoken agreements to work together for the common good. Yet, now the social contract pursuit is dead in America. It briefly was real but then greed, religion, and bigotry destroyed its chances of full realization. America is a failed state to me. Not like Egypt or North Korea or Russia, but failed.
Hard to disagree, Yuri. Perhaps I would say that the hyperconsumerism of the U.S. as a way of ruling a country is a completely failed experiment. The attempt to maintain individual liberty while ensuring social cohesion remains a noble endeavour. As yet though, we are waiting for the hero nation to emerge.
I like that.
I appreciate this step back to the basics. Why do we even have/want/need the state? Is the state simply what we are calling the organizing rules and principals that govern a society? If the purpose is to provide increased security and protection against dangers for individuals then most (all?) of the states in the world are failing. We have all been indoctrinated into the idea that people require competition and thrive only when there is an enemy. This is a very patriarchal, capitalist viewpoint. Couldn’t humanity be motivated by helping others rather than by surpassing others? Rather than wasting huge resources with companies, nations, etc competing those same resources applied to a common goal could produce a profound improvement in meeting the basic needs of all people. In the US we are now experiencing what happens when the majority of people are convinced to fight for the scraps from the few. The obvious difficulty is how to get from where we are now to a place where “the state” is actually improving lives.
I try and bear in mind that the vast majority of people (globally) are decent folk. Most would make excellent neighbours. We will be victorious.
🤣🤣🤣🤣
Rubio in charge of usaid, panama is a ok hi home Rubio
Mexico just gave him the bird
And Canada is being, as always, classy.
Yes DR Dan. Since we are, where we are and not where we were - and could have acted against it - it indeed is time to act now.
Dan, this discussion is absolutely necessary, especially when looking at the current state of the United States. The system, at its core, was never meant for true equality, let alone diversity, equity, and inclusion. It was designed to ensure that powerful, wealthy, white, pseudo-Christian men could fulfill their own version of the American Dream. And that’s exactly what we’re seeing play out now.
Your focus on the well-being of the people is crucial, and I agree that it’s vital for any state to support its citizens. And for me, there’s something more pressing: the issue of human dignity. The post-WWII establishment of both the UN Charter of Human Rights (never ratified by the US) and the German Basic Law placed human dignity at the top of their frameworks. But right now, that dignity is being trampled by a regime that has no one iota respect for it, and by lawmakers who either support this system or remain passive in the face of it. Silence is complicity.
I believe now is the time to rethink and rebuild the framework for America.
The current system has never been about human dignity or fairness—it was built on moral and economic control by a few. But a new framework, one built on dignity, equity, and collective power, could transform the nation into something that truly represents self-determination, shared prosperity, and inclusivity for all.
This is my moonshot: I may not be American, but I have a vision of what could be built—one that drives every thought and response I offer. A country founded not on the illusion of democracy but on actual self-determination. A country where human dignity is not a privilege but a birthright, and where equity and inclusion are the very foundation.
I believe the collapse of the old system isn’t just a loss—it’s an opportunity, but only if enough people stop looking back and begin imagining a new future. What if instead of fighting to restore something broken, we use this moment to build something that can’t be easily dismantled?
It’s not easy, but I believe you, Dan, can contribute to raise awarenes about the magnitude of what’s happening.
The world isn’t paying attention yet, and that silence only empowers the current regime. This can’t just be about surviving or resisting what’s crumbling; it would be helpful if you all it would be about creating something new from what will remain on day.
You have ignored the fact that humans are instinctively tribal, which informs a lot of the reasons we have not achieved a single global State. I think, because of that, it's unlikely we ever will. People will always need a focus around which to build their tribe, and tribal rivalry is a powerful motivating factor for many. Sport of course offers an effective outlet, but still relies on team/tribe loyalty. The important thing is to steer that loyalty and rivalry into peaceful activities (sport) rather than violent conflict.
Hi Rick. The evidence does not support the “tribal” fixed mindset viewpoint. No doubt we can become narrow in our field of vision regarding “others”. But the propensity of humans is to get on with each other. Not sure we need a single global state, but the necessity to get along with each other is hardwired for most of us.
No were not "tribal." We're social like bees or ants. Tribes is a derogatory term used to describe Indigenous communities.
I think the state is the second tier of governance (the world being the first). It is a human system where people participate two activities - politics and business activity. Both of these need defining also; politics is the collective quest fir good governance (i.e. not a competition to control the state masquerading as democracy - or worse) and business is the way groups of people create the common wealth (as in earn a right livelihood by creating things of value, not maximising shareholder wealth at everyone else’s expense). In this definition of the state it is voluntary but involves duties and responsibilities (Hobbesian) which need sanctions - peer pressure cause by a new paradigm being one of the them. See my work on this at https://brianfishhope.com/overview
By the way its not socialist, its is anchored in what we know about human nature…there will be hierarchy but the “silverbacks” will be kept in check. I don’t have a problem with people pooling money for business and “gamifying” it so some people do well, so long as like at the “bottom” allows human thriving and a fulfilling life (Rawls)
This is the first time I’ve seen the argument for an intelligent ‘civilisation’ as something to reach for with or without a ‘state’ (or presumably ‘states’). If I’ve understood it correctly, I think this shift is the terrifying but necessary next step as a species. It’s either that or - Varoufarkis was right - technofuedalism
Thank you, Dr. G! 😢
So well put, as always, Perry. I found it profoundly moving that Indigenous Americans had taken great effort to maintain individual freedoms. They may obey an order to maintain social order but there is no compulsion to do so. It is why no dominant kingdom pervaded, until they were ethnically cleansed. Not sure if you’ve read “The Dawn of Everything”, but it is one of the most profound accounts of civilisation I have ever read.