An "ist" with no "ism"

Spare a thought for the predicament of one John Gray. He is a philosopher and writes endlessly all over the place. The principal thread in his writings is a contempt for anyone who ever tried to write anything about how we might better live together. He shows utter disdain for all and every "ism" under the sun. Now I am as reluctant to subscribe to an "ism" as anyone and happily live with that, but poor Mr Gray, (perhaps from being a philosopher) has to be an "ist". His huge problem is that he is so destructive and disdainful of so many that he has nowhere left to go! He must have a system but can't find a system to suit!  Another argument against being an ist.

The American Revolution?

Is getting closer. When will it come? You thought it had happened? Sadly not. That thing back in 1776 or whenever was a war of independence but not a revolution. Rich Americans grabbing control from rich Brits does not make a revolution. The rich are still firmly in control and getting more ruthless exploitative and even richer. But - they are a tiny minority and if sensible people get together it should be a breeze. Being American it will of course be violent but that aspect fades with time and in any event if enough join in the thing might be a walkover - think Tunisia not Libya.
As Leonard Cohen sings: "Democracy is coming - to the USA" It will make great TV.

Paying Taxes is Good for Us

Countries differ in the levels of taxation. In general higher tax countries are healthier. No surprise. If we argue and debate and agree on something useful we might agree to fund it from taxation. In general then the things we buy through taxation are well considered and worthwhile. Contrast that with private spending - impulsive, ill considered purchases of largely trivial goods and services - the vendors of which laugh all the way to the bank. Higher taxation encourages us to spend a higher proportion of our income on worthwhile commodities and less on ephemeral nonsense.
Think about it!