Declaration

A Lakota organization, that includes AIM founder Russell Means, are apparently declaring (or re-affirming) their independence from the US. How serious are they? The A Declaration of Independence from the USA reads as follows:

Lakota Sioux Indian representatives declared sovereign nation status today in Washington D.C. following Monday's withdrawal from all previously signed treaties with the United States Government.

The withdrawal, hand delivered to Daniel Turner, Deputy Director of Public Liaison at the State Department, immediately and irrevocably ends all agreements between the Lakota Sioux Nation of Indians and the United States Government outlined in the 1851 and 1868 Treaties at Fort Laramie Wyoming.

"This is an historic day for our Lakota people," declared Russell Means, Itacan of Lakota. "United States colonial rule is at its end!"

"Today is a historic day and our forefathers speak through us. Our Forefathers made the treaties in good faith with the sacred Canupa and with the knowledge of the Great Spirit," shared Garry Rowland from Wounded Knee. "They never honored the treaties, that's the reason we are here today."

The four member Lakota delegation traveled to Washington D.C. culminating years of internal discussion among treaty representatives of the various Lakota communities. Delegation members included well known activist and actor Russell Means, Women of All Red Nations (WARN) founder Phyllis Young, Oglala Lakota Strong Heart Society leader Duane Martin Sr., and Garry Rowland, Leader Chief Big Foot Riders. Means, Rowland, Martin Sr. were all members of the 1973 Wounded Knee takeover.

"In order to stop the continuous taking of our resources ñ people, land, water and children- we have no choice but to claim our own destiny," said Phyllis Young, a former Indigenous representative to the United Nations and representative from Standing Rock. Property ownership in the five state area of Lakota now takes center stage. Parts of North and South Dakota, Nebraska, Wyoming and Montana have been illegally homesteaded for years despite knowledge of Lakota as predecessor sovereign [historic owner]. Lakota representatives say if the United States does not enter into immediate diplomatic negotiations, liens will be filed on real estate transactions in the five state region, clouding title over literally thousands of square miles of land and property. Young added, "The actions of Lakota are not intended to embarrass the United States but to simply save the lives of our people".

Following Monday's withdrawal at the State Department, the four Lakota Itacan representatives have been meeting with foreign embassy officials in order to hasten their official return to the Family of Nations. Lakota's efforts are gaining traction as Bolivia, home to Indigenous President Evo Morales, shared they are "very, very interested in the Lakota case" while Venezuela received the Lakota delegation with "respect and solidarity."

"Our meetings have been fruitful and we hope to work with these countries for better relations," explained Garry Rowland. "As a nation, we have equal status within the national community."

Education, energy and justice now take top priority in emerging Lakota. "Cultural immersion education is crucial as a next step to protect our language, culture and sovereignty," said Means. "Energy independence using solar, wind, geothermal, and sugar beets enables Lakota to protect our freedom and provide electricity and heating to our people."

The Lakota reservations are among the most impoverished areas in North America, a shameful legacy of broken treaties and apartheid policies. Lakota has the highest death rate in the United States and Lakota men have the lowest life expectancy of any nation on earth, excluding AIDS, at approximately 44 years. Lakota infant mortality rate is five times the United States average and teen suicide rates 150% more than national average. 97% of Lakota people live below the poverty line and unemployment hovers near 85%.

"After 150 years of colonial enforcement, when you back people into a corner there is only one alternative," emphasized Duane Martin Sr. "The only alternative is to bring freedom into its existence by taking it back to the love of freedom, to our lifeway."

We are the freedom loving Lakota from the Sioux Indian reservations of Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota and Montana who have traveled to Washington DC to withdraw from the constitutionally mandated treaties to become a free and independent country. We are alerting the Family of Nations we have now reassumed our freedom and independence with the backing of Natural, International, and United States law.

For more information, please visit our new website at http://www.lakotafreedom.com/.

Lakota
444 Crazy Horse Drive, P.O. Box 99;
Porcupine, SD 57772

See also Here.

People living in grinding poverty have no great love for government that does nothing, yet bleeds them dry. Passive genocide is slower. US Indian Reservations are generally rural ghettos few leave by any other means than joining the military. Will the point be missed? Will a number of individuals renounce US citizenship? How many will be veterans? How will the Federal Government react? You can bet it will probably do the wrong thing.

Night of the Lone Wolves

Night of the Lone Wolves by Adam Elkus is a short essay concerning the super-empowered individuals. Their actions are amplified by the Verbal World created by media. The author muses that destruction sells:

Perhaps, as European philosopher Slavoj Zizek theorized, we are unwittingly addicted to images of our own destruction. We eagerly devour disaster movies and thrillers that prominently feature events that range from catastrophic to world-ending. In a time of global terrorism and insurgency, one of the most popular television shows is Fox’s 24, which regularly shows fictionalized usage of biological, chemical, and even nuclear weapons. Disturbingly enough, before 9/11 several popular thrillers had plotlines featuring planes being flown into buildings.

Why do we vicariously crave these experiences? Zizek himself echoes Freud in claiming that they tap into deep anxieties and fears we unconsciously hold about modernity—that we fear that underneath the edifice of ordered, secure civilization is little more than raw savagery that threatens to consume us at any given moment. One can also point to the long tradition of apocalyptic literature and mythology, common to all faiths and cultures, and note that these media displays tap into a deep, subconscious cultural nerve honed over the centuries.

I would agree. Mass media has better enabled quick creation of Verbal Worlds. In the past, such trends took years and even centuries to mature. In a 24 hour news cycle, mass viewing can lead to the formation of a particular world view. The events of late 2001 are an obvious example. The population was glued to the television and therefore the experience was immediate yet shared vicariously. Decadence is a catalyst for such processes that corrupt solidarity in the name of unity. A criminal only succeeds beyond physical terms if we let him.

Perpetual War for Perpetual Peace: How We Got to Be So Hated By Gore Vidal

Perpetual War for Perpetual Peace: How We Got to Be So Hated by Gore Vidal is a short book I came across at the semi-annual library book sale. At first, I expected it to be the usual screed about US Imperialism, and it certainly touched upon it, but a large portion of the book concerns Timothy McVeigh. As someone who had friends injured (both physically and psychologically) by the Oklahoma City explosion, I am not inclined toward any particular sympathy. However, as I read the essay, I could see why he did what he did. Although intelligent, he was a simpleton, or a potential "useful idiot." He was certainly not a white supremacist (especially considering he was disgusted at killing Arabs), although he took certain ideas from their "literature." Since his only other option was life in a box, I also agree that he probably opted for "state-assisted suicide" rather than rat out any accomplices or confederates. The government gave him no incentive to talk. I also concur with the conclusion that the Federal Government does not really want to publicly admit the extent of the hatred directed at it.[1] I would also add that media, having financial stakes, certainly do not generally want to pursue this thread either. The power structure would rather leave murders free than shed light on its increasing illegitimacy.

[1] And it isn't just the far, far right wing by any means.

Recommended Reading: The Road to Serfdom: A classic warning against the dangers to freedom inherent in social planning by F.A. Hayek

Although this blog is on hiatus, I will from time to time offer recommended readings. In this installment, The Road to Serfdom: A classic warning against the dangers to freedom inherent in social planning by F.A. Hayek will be briefly discussed. This book, written by the 1974 co-winner of the Nobel Prize for Economics, was published in 1944 and is dedicated "to socialists of all parties." In it, the author warns against state-imposed collective "planning," and explains in detail its incompatibility with democracy. His thesis, written from the point of view of a classical liberal, is essentially that state economic controls (which lead to monopolies) are the antithesis of freedom. In the real world, authority is human and must make choices that will inevitably favor one group over another, thus leading to social strife. In addition, the happiness of the individual must be neglected, which basically leaves all claims of authoritarian socialism as incompatible with the concept of personal freedom. As the author also states, only personal freedom allows the individual and hence society to develop humanistic morality and values. Without some personal responsibility, the most terrible deeds may be justified as part of the greater plan.

Although dated, his thesis is still relevant. For those believing the state can solve all problems, as its history indicates, this book would definitely appear threatening. For this reason alone, this book is worth reading.

Hiatus

This blog is in hiatus. I have too many projects going right now, and nobody reads this stuff anyway with any regularity. A blog is too difficult to back check. The whole becomes represented by the sum of its parts. The part is seen in and of itself. When I resume, I will likely post only singular aphorisms, but I am not in the mood just yet. The back posts will remain for the search engines and for the (few) readers who are plowing through old posts. Meanwhile, I will likely pursue hard copy publishing. I will still be posting at my far more frequently visited sites: Propaganda Posters and at Drunk And Armed. I will also still publish Rants/Essays irregularly (which nobody much reads either - it takes a lot of work to be universally offensive).

-SRL

Review of Brave New War #8

Review of Brave New War by John Robb (Continued).

This book is in general agreement with other 4GW authors. The world is changing back to old mindsets mixed with modern goals and technology. Centralized state control is fading (in general) world wide. Eventually, economic collapse will effectively break governments of power. Robb discusses a future where fortified enclaves develop along collectivist lines. The rich individually and collectively; the middles class collectively. He does not discuss the effects of massive currency collapse on the rich and middle class. It may be inferred that he is basically predicting another Great Depression coupled with a crippled state. Many other 4GW authors go further and view it as a change in the nature of civilization. The reality may prove something in between.

Medicine - An art that has submitted itself wholly to science.

FMFM 1A-3A: A Book of Fourth Generation Tactical Decision Games

FMFM 1A-3A: A Book of Fourth Generation Tactical Decision Imperial and Royal (K.u.K.) Austro-Hungarian Marine Corps. Too bad only Austro-Hungarians will read it.

Review of Brave New War #7

Review of Brave New War by John Robb (Continued).

Large electrical grids and other networks are vulnerable due to the large transmission distances involved. One cannot guard every power or gas line. As a result, as prevention against disruption, power will need to be generated locally, presumably primarily through renewable such as solar (which will become cost competitive within the decade) and wind power (which is competitive now). The national network is too vulnerable, which will provide incentive to localize power generation. The question remains whether or not this development may be forced.

Review of Brave New War #6

Review of Brave New War by John Robb (Continued).

Guerrilla Entrepreneurs are driven by a range in motivation. Some are mercenary; most are not (as being driven solely to fight for pay). Circumstances dictate the means and methods. Some do not kill. Their targets are physical infrastructure and systems, such as targeting critical nodes and transmission lines. Computer systems may also be threatened. The Guerrilla Entrepreneur is exploiting the weakness of Maximum Advantage. Technical efficiency as final consideration leads towards connectivity thus inevitable spawning many unintended consequences. A primary conflict point occurs along cultural lines. Once a dominant culture succumbs to the lure of Maximum Advantage, it will force itself upon all others via contact vectors. Interestingly (or not), the technical morality meanwhile smothers all the competition by buying it out, then pushing it to the population. As the boundary is reached, the spaces are filled in. The original only occurs one as the bizarre becomes common place. Along lines of popular culture*, this behavior is transmitted in all its decadent glory. Guerrilla Entrepreneurs may also utilize the same media techniques with increasing sophistication. Indeed, being small their propaganda may be altered as necessary in almost real time. A committee does not need to meet and discuss the matter for months to change tact and approach. Psychological warfare is inevitably employed in modern conflicts. Internal battles are no exception.

* I would recommend Tom Frank (in general) and The Baffler crew for those readers interested in bashing the cutting edge.

Review of Brave New War #5

Review of Brave New War by John Robb (Continued).

Open Source Warfare is a concept that describes warfare like a bazaar. Fighters, bomb makers and others sell their talents by the job to "organic" guerrilla movements, gangs, clans etc. that often make no claim and do no covet the mantle of state. The weak can challenge the strong by buying the services of those willing to do the job. Indeed, even states are using more mercenaries these days, so why would others not do so?

Review of Brave New War #4

Review of Brave New War by John Robb (Continued).

As the author points out, the War in Iraq is similar to the Spanish Civil War in being an incubator for new types of warfare. In Spain, the bombing of Guernica by three waves of German bombers is cited as an example of experimental warfare. In Iraq, the art of systems disruptions and the small bleeding dry the strong are both examples. However, unlike Spain where the strong learned at the expense of the weak, the opposite is true of Iraq. Technology has advanced both in terms of weapons availability and its ubiquitous presence within complex systems. A modern state may be fought successfully by turning off the lights. Even if the result is a smoking ruin, the weak cannot help prevail.

The weak can always build. In unstable situations, the masses are best kept busy by building infrastructure. Revolt and revolutionary impulses are blunted by employment. Any state forces forgetting this truism, like the US did in Iraq, will find their situation ultimately untenable.

Review of Brave New War #3

Review of Brave New War by John Robb (Continued).

One of the interesting points the author makes in this book (and has done so repeatedly on his Website) is the similarities of the Spanish Civil War and the War in Iraq. Both conflicts are precursors to even greater wars. In addition, although never alludes both contain contained (truly) revolutionary elements. However, a primary component has changed its nature, namely anarchistic* drivers towards smaller or even no government. In the 1930s, anarchy was embodied by movements and figures; in the 2000s, anarchy is an historical force. Technological civilization is vulnerable in proportion to its size. Decentralization and isolation are a response, including gravitation toward closed collectivism. As infrastructure is divided the result can be harsh if the transition is managed poorly (which is most certain in chaotic circumstance). It becomes only prudent to disconnect from the national grid or road system as autonomy is assumed or wrested. Chaos can be halted. People will need to depend on themselves more. In the US, I suspect the federal government would take a backseat to state and local jurisdictions (some of which will Fall Apart on their Own).

* In the sense, meaning no rulers or government. Chaos is not inherent; just likely.

Review of Brave New War #2

Review of Brave New War by John Robb (Continued).

The author emphasizes the vulnerabilities of a technological society to the forces of chaos. The state is too slow and unwieldy to adequately defend against those forces that wish to sow disorder and yet have no interest in replacing a government with themselves (as was the case with previous forms of guerrilla warfare). Although some success may be gained by spectacular (and deadly) attacks such as witnessed on 9-11-01, in general, the small and weak are better off overcoming the large and strong by means and methods of systems disruptions. Deadly attacks will provide diminishing returns by hardening resolve and creating new enemies. Also, the response is not universal. A terrorist attack on Italy would not be as effective as one against the US as a smaller state does not possess the resources to massively over-react. (In addition, the perpetrators generally do not live to fight another day.) On the other hand, attacks against infrastructure and other technological systems are relatively easy to plan and implement with little risk to the participants (assuming a certain level of knowledge of those systems). An example cited by the author was an attack on Iraqi infrastructure that cost several thousand dollars to carry out, but resulted in the loss of $500 million in lost oil export revenue. (The cell responsible also escaped unnoticed and unscathed.) Compared to actual combat, it simply does not take much to fight this type of economic warfare.

Review of Brave New War #1

Brave New War by John Robb is packed full of same material and minimalist writing style (I approve) that may be found at his web site Global Guerrillas. Now the meat of the matter is available in one compact book. If you've followed his web writing, his book covers the salient points while avoiding beating his subject to death; for new comers to 4GW concepts, I suspect it adequately conveys both the complexity of physical networks and the relative simplicity involved in disrupted technological systems.

Before I write further concerning my review, a while back William S. Lind reviewed his book Brave New War and made an interesting, if somewhat flawed point:

I think John Robb’s Air Force Background may mislead him to an extent. Air Forces have long believed that the bombing of critical nodes in an enemy’s military, communications or economic systems can win wars; American air raids on German ball-bearing plants in World War II are a famous example. In reality, it seldom works because the enemy’s re-routing, redundancy and repair capabilities enable him to work around the destruction. Robb is right that such destruction can increase costs, but wartime psychology can absorb higher costs. War trumps peacetime balance-sheets.

Although true regarding World War II, a comparison with present day society is stretching things a bit. Disruptions are a major source of stress and lost revenue. If the power is off for a prolonged period of time, as it was for some people in Western Washington late last year, the population gets mean. Everything depends on infrastructure. Sixty+ years has brought many changes including psychological dependence on machines. Selfishness (for want of a better term) is the norm. Decadence does not breed loyalty or enable any kind of wartime psychology. The worst will come out. Although less dependent, Iraq is being crippled by problems with infrastructure. Western countries might collapse as well. The first few times the power is knocked out by Global Guerrillas, the population will curse the perpetrators. After 100 times, the government is blamed and looses legitimacy. Why should I pay taxes if the lights can't even be kept on?

Lind is without doubt responsible for an extraordinary intellectual achievement in identifying 4GW. Rarely are trends identified so quickly by contemporaries, but his grasp of contemporary western culture is limited. As seen in Importing More Fourth Generation War:

The root of the problem, as is usual in Fourth Generation war, is loyalty. As the Times story says, the Kurds, like virtually all refugees from other cultures, are "bound by a common language and ethnicity." Those bonds are stronger than formal American citizenship, and they provide a rich soil in which 4GW can grow. In America 's poisonous popular culture, the necessary seeds are quickly planted among young men by the same rock and rap music, video games and examples from the culturally disintegrated black community that have overwhelmed Hispanics and other immigrants. As always, the cultural Marxists fly cover over the whole diabolical mess, labeling any serious discussion of the problem "racism."

Without addressing particulars, like many (true and probably older) conservatives, he identifies supposed vectors without ever touching on the disease, namely decadence. In fact, I suspect few intuitively understand its affects. Music and video games are a product of the environment. Pop culture is a media commodity. White suburban kids buy most gangsta rap. Cultural Marxists, as identified by William S. Lind numerous times, would have no fertile soil in a non-decadent culture. Pop culture includes conservatives as it does everything else that may be packaged and sold. When civilization declines all boat are lowered with the tide. Some also manage to beach themselves.

This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Seven.25

25. This Modern Warrior Archetype fights with its head. The modern order may only be challenged or defended by employing knowledge regarding weak and strong points to avoid squandering resources. Speed is also essential. Monolithic bureaucracies cannot compete with small, determined groups in either attacking or defending community and civilization. Maximum Advantage is doomed. In addition, psychological vulnerabilities will be exploited by all sides. Understanding one’s self and motivations will allow one to resist (or ignore) the pressure. Don’t be a tool for anyone.

End of Part Eight
Moving on toward practical matters...

But first, a review of John Robbs’ Brave New War.

This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Seven.24

24. For some, strife is a rush that beats any drug. Willingly succumbing to the call of conflict, these sort will look for provocations. As allies, they may prove useful, but must be restrained. Many only recognize fear or respect. Fear may prove a useful short term tools, but its endless application will prove exhausting. Hatred will eventually destroy those employing direct intimidation as a means to an end. Everyone has to sleep sometime. Respect has far broader possibilities including dedication. For This Modern Warrior Archetype, nothing is more important than certainty produced by the loyalty of friends and comrades. One would not care to fight otherwise.

This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Seven.23

23. Among those able to discern trends and foresee likely events, there will always be those whom refuse to embrace their predictions. Unsurprisingly, one dedicated to preservation will not welcome its failure due to the stupidity of others. Rather than assign blame where it belongs, the impulse to “shoot the messenger” may override their perception of those choosing to readily adapt to the coming order. Psychologically, such types may see cause rather than consequence. Loyalty is a strong motivator. Honor may demand that everything may be done to defend the old order. A general desire for stability may also contribute toward resentment being directed at those with less vested interest in the current order. As such, these sort will not see the advantage of standing aside for The Fall, and contrary opinions will be met with negativity or even hostility by those trying to stop it. Unfortunately, no single constituent is to blame. Systemic collapse cannot be cause by any one factor. Reality is rarely so simplistic. Perhaps they may even soften the blow; if The Fall is the inevitable by-product of a broken system, then it cannot be stopped. A healthy civilization would not succumb to these pressure, because the underlying issues would not be present. The world moves on whether we like it or not. As a result, unfortunately, one must stand aside and let events convince many potential allies otherwise. Failure to do so, even if one only wallows in its destruction of the system while not actually doing anything to cause its demise, will only create more enemies. They will come around. Hopefully, their lessons will serve to make them stronger.

This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Seven.22

22. Psychological pressure may be applied both scientifically and artistically. Scientific methods tend to be surer, but are by their nature cruder. Artistic avenues may be subtle or blatantly obvious, and may even be regarded as pleasant or entertaining. The artist has a potential beyond mere scientific entreaties, but has less margin for error and failure. Systematic artistic formulae erodes its own appeal. Art grows stale with repeated use. Hence, the dedicated propagandist will employ a mix of scientific and artistic methods as a means for advocacy. Advertising is the most honest form of such enterprising techniques; the rest masquerade.

This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Seven.21

21. Repression is not oppression, or is it?

Alan Sokal

Papers by Alan Sokal on the "Social Text Affair." His 1996 prank exposed the ridiculousness of post-modern bullshit. "Impostures Intellectuelles" / "Fashionable Nonsense" (by Alan Sokal and Jean Bricmont) is worth owning for a good laugh at the expense of Idiot Intellectuals (see Part 1).

My only effort at such humor is Against Artificial Intelligence, so I certainly appreciate Sokal's humor in "Transgressing the Boundaries: Toward a Transformative Hermeneutics of Quantum Gravity". The reactions to his Revealing the parody article were truly amusing.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Seven.20

20. Degeneration is a social and cultural phenomenon that imprints itself upon psychological products. The environment may not affect and determine everything, but is likely the greatest contributing factor into primary psychological development. Yet at a certain point, the level of determinative effect diverges and ceases to correlate. A dying civilization does not mean death for everyone. Some will rise; others will sink as roles are inverted or suppressed. Albeit extremely harsh and cruel, in such times, social and cultural orders revert toward more natural directions. Civilizations rise as a counter weight, and the cycle continues.

Interlude: Aphorisms Galore #10

Patriotism is the willingness to kill and be killed for trivial reasons.

When the rich make war it's the poor that die.
-Jean-Paul Sartre

Remember, to them it is us who are the enemy.
-N. F. Simpson

Interlude: Aphorisms Galore #9

1. Military intelligence is a contradiction in terms.

2. Military justice is to justice what military music is to music.

-Groucho Marx

War hath no fury like a non-combatant.

-Charles Edward Montague

Interlude: Aphorisms Galore #8

The enemy is anybody who's going to get you killed, no matter which side he's on.
-Joseph Heller: Catch-2

There is one thing stronger than all the armies in the world, and that is an idea whose time has come.
-Victor Hugo

Technological progress has merely provided us with more efficient means for going backwards.
-Aldous Huxley

Interlude: Aphorisms Galore #7

Education is a better safeguard of liberty than a standing army.
-Edward Everett

They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety.
-Benjamin Franklin

All violence, all that is dreary and repels, is not power, but the absence of power.
-Ralph Waldo Emerson

Interlude: Aphorisms Galore #6

Alliance: In international politics, the union of two thieves who have their hands so deeply inserted into each others' pockets that they cannot separately plunder a third.
-Ambrose Bierce: The Devil's Dictionary

You can get more of what you want with a kind word and a gun than you can with just a kind word.
-Al Capone

The end of the human race will be that it will eventually die of civilization.
-Ralph Waldo Emerson

Interlude: Aphorisms Galore #5

1. People only see what they are prepared to see.

2. People seem not to see that their opinion of the world is also a confessor of character.

3. Sometimes a scream is better than a thesis.

-Ralph Waldo Emerson

A Living Aphorism: "To Be Or To Do?"

A living aphorism:

To Be Or To Do?

"Tiger, one day you will come to a fork in the road,” he said. “And you’re going to have to make a decision about which direction you want to go.” He raised his hand and pointed. “If you go that way you can be somebody. You will have to make compromises and you will have to turn your back on your friends. But you will be a member of the club and you will get promoted and you will get good assignments.” Then Boyd raised his other hand and pointed another direction. “Or you can go that way and you can do something – something for your country and for your Air Force and for yourself. If you decide you want to do something, you may not get promoted and you may not get the good assignments and you certainly will not be a favorite of your superiors. But you won’t have to compromise yourself. You will be true to your friends and to yourself. And your work might make a difference.” He paused and stared into the officer’s eyes and heart. “To be somebody or to do something. In life there is often a roll call. That’s when you will have to make a decision. To be or to do. Which way will you go?

-Col John R. Boyd, USAF

Interlude: Aphorisms Galore #4

1. I am enough of an artist to draw freely upon my imagination. Imagination is more important than knowledge. Knowledge is limited. Imagination encircles the world.

2. It is a miracle that curiosity survives formal education.

-Albert Einstein

I hate quotations.

-Ralph Waldo Emerson

Interlude: Aphorisms Galore #3

There is nothing so absurd but some philosopher has said it.
-Cicero

If we are the only intelligent life in the universe, at least there's a finite number of idiots.
-Steven Coallier

I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand.
-Confucius

Interlude: Aphorisms Galore #2

Knowledge is the small part of ignorance that we arrange and classify.
-Ambrose Bierce

Any fool can tell the truth, but it requires a man of some sense to know how to lie well.
-Samuel Butler

Education is the period during which you are being instructed by somebody you do not know, about something you do not want to know.
-Gilbert K. Chesterton

Interlude: Aphorisms Galore

For those with an appreciation for aphorisms, Aphorisms Galore is worth perusing. I especially appreciate the Wisdom and Ignorance section.

Here's a few samples that just caught my eye:

Beware the man of one book.
-St. Thomas Aquinas

The wise learn many things from their enemies.
-Aristophanes

A synonym is a word you use when you can't spell the word you first thought of.
-Burt Bacharach

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Seven.19

19. When confronted by outright distortions, lies and convoluted suggestion, certain constraints on conversation may prove frustrating and annoying. Long overdue, the avoided subject may long simmer before coming into a boil. The resultant alienation is long (if not ever) lasting alienation and possibly enmity. Unless one walks away, the hole will only be dug deeper. Once issues become personal, then rational thought and calculating ability are diminished. One should not plot grand strategy when one is enraged. Enemies are counting on exploiting mistakes. Some things can not be undone.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Seven.18

18. Negative backlash can be at the least minimized or even averted by simply refusing to associate with those forces responsible for the initial provocation. Why lose everything due to the arrogance and stupidity of others? Of course, walking away does have its price: one must step over the remains on the way back. Holding the line is the compromise between aggression and retreat; like all settlements, unsatisfactory elements comprise its reality. One must learn to live with the consequences.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Seven.17

17. No matter one’s belief or opinions (or lack thereof) regarding fate, one must expend energy and effort making things happen. At the same time, one must also realize and recognize that some things, for various reasons, are beyond one’s power to change. This mentality is particularly valid with respect to the self destructive impulses of others. Any other outlook is lying to oneself. In these cases, one must learn to either react appropriately and overcome as much adversity as possible, or avoid the situation entirely. Some things are not eternally worthwhile. If energy expended results in negative returns, the better path is simply walking away even into the unknown. As a general guide to expectations: only the truly brave have the will do so before being forced by The Fall.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Seven.16

16. A technological society will inevitably spawn some type of technological culture. The state of the greater culture will necessarily be reflected and incorporated into its scene. Psychological pathologies may also find their outlet within its framework. Disembodiment can be decadent or divine. Nothing unalienable dictates one course over another. Only greater mass, one way or another, will tip the balance. In a world of absolute equality, both choices are given equal consideration. Guess which is more fun?

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Seven.15

15. One may step away from the prevailing consensus by rejecting the argument that economy defines everything. As beaten to death in the last section, rationality consumes everything is its smoldering ruin. Honor can mean nothing in such a scheme–there is no direct economic gain. The idea of quarter becomes unthinkable. Thought is substituted for dogma. Even as it strangles itself, this dismal world view desires profit in all things. As a result, one way or another, it offers nothing but materialism.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Seven.14

14. Events and places are strong influences on those factors that make one what one is. The past must be understood as a guide toward the future. The alternative embraces the predestination lie. The world is not as one wishes, but may be influenced for better or ill. At this point, a decadent becomes concerned with means than ends. Even as it destroys the cause, brutality is thus justified in the maximum concern of total gain. As a result, nothing is halted until all balance sheets are negative.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Seven.13

13. Occasionally, one will be challenged by those beneath. Bravado will drive some to attempt foolish challenges. In such situations, a maximum response will only result in one appearing cowardly and therefore weak. If one shoots a brawler, the survivors will seek vengeance; if one rather forces the dance, the result will be a chuckle and increased respect. Escalation should be reserved for the truly dangerous.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Seven.12

12. In those situations where it becomes necessary “to take things up a notch,” one must be willing and able to act swiftly and decisively. When one is standing alone, failure will most likely be absolute as allies and adversaries alike deem one unreliable and easy subdued. At the same time, once victory has been achieved, one must be willing to be magnanimous. Baring true fanatics, the defeated must be offered a chance to keep some past gains. Only take (or deprive) that which is necessary for continues success. Honor is respected. In the end, nothing will be gained by humiliating a worthy vanquished foe. One does not need more hatred

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Seven.11

11. Violence is a simplistic tool as a means to a desired end, but often has more repercussions than is worth the gain. Power may be used like a bludgeon, or subtly. In a technological society, the hard application of force will be viewed graphically and exploited by unsympathetic parties to Maximum Advantage in all Things. Bluntness is dullness. Direct power is far more likely to breed resentment and create enemies. Only when direct action is used sparingly, fear is a weapon far more effective in terms of economy. Overstretch is avoided by a policy of simple maintenance. Only an idiot believes anything is possible.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Seven.10

10. From time to time, one may discover the need to step forward toward conflict. Motivation may vary from the concrete or abstract; but regardless, it must be strong. Fighting, as opposed to simple brawling, is not worth pursuing unless the price is worth the cost. For some, conflict is an excuse for unleashing one’s drives to the fullest extent allowed. Unrestrained, these impulses degenerate toward basic animal instinct and actuates accordingly. The resultant unrestrained depravity befittingly leads the herd towards actively suppressing aggressive traits required for the an effective warrior class.[13] In those societies and cultures where the warrior is accepted, one will see codes and oaths against victimizing the unoffending. In a decadent society, where no such outlet exists, one may find the need to emulate past efforts. As a concession, at least This Modern Warrior Archetype is free.

[13] At best, equilibrium may be allowed to exist only under extremely controlled settings. The warrior must be able to switch off aggressive inclinations. One way or another, those failing to do so are suppressed.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Seven.9

9. Reality has both tangible and non-objective components to its experience. A solid wall is always solid; but not always an obstacle. Limits exist. Ambition may only carry one so far. Someone else almost always pays to cleanup up the wreckage. The dead are beyond caring. Those traveling on a higher plane do so with one foot in the grave. Like a lode stone, opponents will gather to fill. Too often, the dirt is kicked back. How easy would it be to just step away?

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Seven.8

8. Thought is not innate. Instinct is not always dominant. Terms are not always even. Definitions are not always precise. Translations are not absolute. Reductive reasoning flows toward smallest causes even as it complicates the interpretation. For most purposes, the world is fairly simple. The difficulty is ascertaining constituents. Subtleties can imply totally different matters. One must be capable of identifying context to avoid being used (and abused). An important means is identifying appeal: what pushes your buttons?

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Seven.7

7. Like falling leaves, all life has a tendency to spiral downward as it dies. Humans are basically unique in their drive toward accelerating the effect of their deaths. Perhaps sentience is doomed in this regard. Awareness of death is a shackle. One need not roll the attached boulder off a cliff. Indeed, it may be an anchor. One need not follow the lemmings.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Seven.6

6. In stressful situations, motivation is maintained when something viewed as worth the strain is either sought or defended. As a consequence, the less worthwhile causes will suffer from exhaustion sooner than those things which under duress matter better. The deepest roots are most firmly entrenched–with the exception of a decadents society. When safety valves become systems unto themselves, nothing boils while everything almost (but not quite) simmers. Even as it drags on, it still blisters. Unchallenged, things are limited to falling apart on their own. Although its collapse is final, at least one aware may gauge the direction of the fall.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Seven.5

5. Mental preparation is as necessary for conflict (or competition) as physical conditioning. One must learn not to freeze. In stressful situation, others naturally look toward someone that offers the appearance of calm and composure. This Modern Warrior Archetype must carry it a step farther by offering something substantial. The alternative is allowing viscous opportunists their opening. Even the non-decadent may be brought crashing down by the hollow fanaticism espoused by zealots. One must rise above and light the path forward. The alternative is many steps backward.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Seven.4

4. Aggression has its time and place. Unleashed and unrestrained, power begins to consume itself. If arrested promptly, in a mass media society, prestige gained will compensate for the effort. One wants to revel; one realizes the consequences. Self control is something usually obtained through experience and formal training. A few possess the instinct. One way or another, deceleration expends energy. For some, the toll is less.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Seven.3

3. Showing fear is frowned upon by most non-decadent cultures. Paranoid display is not welcome in matters relating to life and death. The calm are universally respected. Even so, nervousness does have its place. It does not behoove one to get overly comfortable in potentially hostile situations. Mostly, when immediate action or decision is required, the better tact is to show no uncertainty or jitteriness. By admitting fear in oneself, one is given sight, and hence greatly increases the odds of coolness under pressure. If you know something is coming, one can brace against its impact or go limp as appropriate. Only experience will allow one to know for sure.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Seven.2

2. Fear is a force to be mastered. If one can admit (if only to one’s self) those traits and experiences wherein vulnerability lies, one can master the expected response. In so recognizing this insight, the ability can be transferred outward. In so exercising, one realizes that many motivations are really quite simple. One eats because one is hungry. Anything deeper is irrelevant in the moment. Reflections are vital, but one must survive to get the chance.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Seven.1

Part Seven.

On Dostoyevskian Psychology–

1. Dostoyevskian psychology is pure art, intuition and instinct. Science provides a useful check in its retrospective, but usually is not something that need be appealed in the moment. Understanding what goes on inside the heads of others can be crucial in a number of situations. Such skills are a useful way towards aggressive means, or avoidance. The potential for enmity can be negated by just the right amount of fear–too little emboldens; too much leads to a knife in the back. Outnumbered, This Modern Warrior Archetype does not necessitate enemies.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Six.13.0

13. In conflicts, where escalation is undesirable, This Modern Warrior Archetype will need to fight primarily through non-physical means. Baring living in a fortress, the Technical Morality cannot be avoided. One can always be trampled by the many. Deterrence may be employed by the numerically disadvantaged. Psychology is a suitable tool for the ends of survival. However, one must take care to avoid the foolishness often associated with its popular manifestations. Indeed, an earlier approach is much more useful. One must develop the ability to look within. Modern academic psychology is generally too analytical for such used. Observations must come from the real environment, and be based within its context. The collected works of Fyodor Mikhailovich Dostoevsky are an excellent resource for developing these skills.

End of Part Six.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Six.12.0

12. A technological society will inevitably adopt at least some machine values. The degree is directly proportional to the decadence and nihilism contained within the affected societies. A healthy society can not be encroached so easily by the cold dictates of the drive towards efficiency. The machine prospers, hence it must be a model for those with nothing else better. The result is decay within a shiny chrome finish.

Yahia Lababidi

Yahia Lababidi's Aphorisms.

Yahia Lababidi is one of a very few contemporary writers to have their work included in an Encyclopedia of the World's Great Aphorists by James Geary, due November 2007.

Samples

"Liar: one who claims to tell the truth, always."

"Time forbids attachments. Clinging to a particular time is courting madness."

"Looking death in the eye is like staring into the sun; for a while, you see its impression everywhere, stare too long and you see nothing else."

Read the rest Here.

I'll be sure to read his book.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Six.11.7

11g. Who benefits by being ground down? This great error is the belief that everything must end in the dust. Why go to such extremes? This greater error is explained by a perverse desire to project upon the world one’s cravings. The bright flame burns quickest. Historical inevitability has a tendency to turn out not to be so inevitable.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Six.11.6

11f. If intellectualism is unknown, can such an environment really give rise to anti-intellectualism? Its products are what they are. The simple do not necessarily believe themselves to be so basic. Some things are not easily analyzed; other matters do not warrant the effort. Projection is the enemy.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Six.11.5

11e. Some things are worth more walking away.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Six.11.4

11d. Intimidation is a powerful weapon that is easily squandered by bravado. Why be a target?

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Six.11.3

11c. Fighting occurs on many different levels and fields. Most would be warriors view physical aspects to be supremely important. Although in emergencies situations the upper hand may go to the physically superior, in many situations the mental and moral levels are far more important. Whether positively or negatively, the masses cannot be reached any other way. Reputation is difficult to earn, but easy to dispel through rash and ill-though actions. Only a tool believes otherwise.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Six.11.2

11b. Although easy to discuss, new courses are difficult to implement. Social and cultural inertia are drags on substantive change. On the other hand, many impulses toward change are based upon wishful and even delusional thinking. Desire does not make all things possible. Therein a difficulty arises: how to tell the difference between resistance and the impossible. The first step is observing the world as it is, rather than how one wants it to be. Will is not always a power.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Six.11.1

11a. As Things Fall Apart, an impulse toward destruction for its own sake may be emergent. As civilization falters, nihilism is spawned. Decadence leaves little worth preserving, and certainly inspires no desire to fight for its defense. Dirt is better cleansed. Culture can be separated from its rotten society by moving on. A lost cause is better given new direction.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Six.10.0

10. When everyone is a deviant, then no one is.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Six.9.26

9z. Sometimes survival demands sacrifice. Maximum Advantage will not allow such vectors. Despite a desire to the contrary, embracing the machine always proves to be cold. Humanity is lost on robots. Logic is not a human condition. Mass sterilization is the first step toward extinction. Civilizations, societies and cultures are no exceptions.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Six.9.25

9y. As laws are undermined by their makers, authority is eroded like exposed soil during a hard rain. Eventually, only hard rock is left exposed. Any Fall is hard and bloody. In the end, nature stands supreme over the anti-natural inclinations bred by a decadent society. Stone is only a cushion for something harder.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Six.9.24

The unthinking are fodder for state power, and therefore the bane of liberty. Their prominence is an indicator of degeneration. While denying the possibility of succession, the status quo marches toward its doom. Despite claims to the contrary, any system that promotes vapidity is wearing down. Passing over is no aberration. Corruption has its consequences.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Six.9.23

9u. A man three feet tall stands ten feet tall with a gun; a man who gets the same thing without lifting a finger stands even taller.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Six.9.22

9t. Ignorance is akin to working long hours with a jack hammer.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Six.9.21

9s. Anti-natural cultural beliefs are manifestations of self-destructive influences. Suicide is an impulse fostered by a decadent society and culture. Life becomes pointless for those trapped in gray. Self-preservation is never constant. Paradoxically, as the drives toward life decrease, a counter impulse, corrupted by decay, demands the consequences be ever sanitized. Messes are swept and hidden away. Eventually, even death becomes clean. In the end, as the remaining options are eliminated, only The Fall remains.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Six.9.20

9r. In a stagnant environment, degenerated elites will begin to view chasms as peaks. Deliberate self-deception becomes common among those stake holders with the most to lose. If enough mass believes its civilization is worth defending, it will stand a far greater chance of survival. If few have vested interests, then upset will far more likely lead to irreversible chaos. Gravity always pulls down.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Six.9.19

9q. A major flaw is the belief in the superiority of the herd mentality. As a result, the wisdom of the lowest common denominator prevails, and less becomes the predominant value. In this setting, those rising to the top are its mediocre products. By refusing the universal median, everyone else falls by the wayside. Those remaining are exceptional only in their lack of exceptionalism. Their world view is tarnished by the status quo. All the while mouthing platitudes, their morality is nothing but technical. The present is sought as eternal. Change is unseen. In their eyes, the world stands still. The highest orders are always squandered by stupidity.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Six.9.18

9p. Meritocracy is mostly a fable. Connections always count. The degree is directly proportional to the level of decline. As the relative weight increases, ability counts for less. At a certain point, associations count for everything. Shared fantasies are a potentially fatal consequence of such inbreeding. Unless after the fact, policy becomes increasingly unexamined. Only reaction is possible. Damage control becomes constant. Stress eventually leads to a breaking. Delusion is an extreme response to broken down policy. Unable to respond, constrained by high costs produced by unrealistic expectations, only desperation remains. The next step is living in a bunker. Failure is always someone else’s fault.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Six.9.17

9o. The center is a waste pit.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Six.9.16

9n. Legitimacy is something earned. It can be forced but never be imposed. A product of willful indoctrination, only an idiot believes otherwise. Unless mitigated, one action can ruin much hard earned respect. Strutting around never impresses those whose opinions matter. Following through is far more important. Those playing pretend don’t know the difference.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Six.9.15

9m. Megalomania is nothing new, but mass media allows its reach to be greatly extended. It may touch those susceptible to its delusions far more quicker and wider than would be possible otherwise. Shared media experiences allow for false perceptions of shared sacrifice. Relatively, the virtual and vicarious are therefore highly pliant. Although a minority, it’s drives will sometimes tip the balance. In the media realm, empire is the ultimate expression and aspiration for the herd. Fortunately and unfortunately, nothing really guides or cushions its inevitable stupidities. Systems can be upset by idiots. 

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Six.9.14

9l. Self destruction should be limited to oneself. A suicidal death trip should be a personal affair. Anything else lacks respectability and deserves the inevitable Backlash. Unfortunately, the broken shards never seem to touch those most deserving. Anyone one bringing down such destruction is no less or more an enemy than the perpetrators. Know thine enemies.

On ThisModern Warrior Archetype Part Six.9.13

9k. The embrace of Maximum Advantage ensures the self-inflicted inability to halt anything in motion. The political leadership has nullified itself through its complete reliance on inertia. The Technical Morality requires basic efficiency in everything, and applies itself. Like dogs, its multiple systemic products are conditioned to salivate on demand. Power and money are intoxicating, but not mutually inclusive. Cocooned, the inner circles easily forget which is respected and which is reviled. Too many tap dance on their own graves.

Interlude: An Aphorism 10

"Whoever must be a creator also annihilates."
-Friedrich Nietzsche (1844-1900)

This aphorism and many other fine examples of the style may be found in The World in a Phrase - A Brief History of the Aphorism by James Geary.

Interlude: An Aphorism 9

"He whom you cannot teach to fly, teach to fall faster."
-Friedrich Nietzsche (1844-1900)

This aphorism and many other fine examples of the style may be found in The World in a Phrase - A Brief History of the Aphorism by James Geary.

Interlude: An Aphorism 8

"The road of excess leads to the palace of wisdom."
-William Blake (1757-1827)

This aphorism and many other fine examples of the style may be found in The World in a Phrase - A Brief History of the Aphorism by James Geary.

Interlude: An Aphorism 7

"Hope is the confusion of the desire for a thing with its probability."
-Arthur Schopenhauer (1788-1860)

This aphorism and many other fine examples of the style may be found in The World in a Phrase - A Brief History of the Aphorism by James Geary.

Interlude: An Aphorism 6

"He who has seen everything empty itself is close to knowing what everything is filled with."
-Antonio Porchia (1886-1968)

This aphorism and many other fine examples of the style may be found in The World in a Phrase - A Brief History of the Aphorism by James Geary.

Interlude: An Aphorism 5

"God builds his temple in the heart on the ruins of churches and religions."
-Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803-1882)

This aphorism and many other fine examples of the style may be found in The World in a Phrase - A Brief History of the Aphorism by James Geary.

Interlude: An Aphorism 4

"What upsets people is not things themselves but their judgements about things."
-Epictetus

This aphorism and many other fine examples of the style may be found in The World in a Phrase - A Brief History of the Aphorism by James Geary.

Interlude: An Aphorism 3

The greatest carver does the least cutting.
-Lao-tzu (c. 604-531 B.C.E.)

This aphorism and many other fine examples of the style may be found in The World in a Phrase - A Brief History of the Aphorism by James Geary.

Interlude: An Aphorism 2

Lots of knowledge fits into a hollow head.
-Karl Kraus (1874 - 1936)

This aphorism and many other fine examples of the style may be found in The World in a Phrase - A Brief History of the Aphorism by James Geary.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Six.9.12

9j. Maximum Advantage seeks to divert serious opponents through diversion and lifestyle. Dissent may be channeled toward profitable ends and means. Compromise may be compounded. As the world slides ever onward and downward, deviance becomes ever more a product. Mass media is a carrier, but originates nothing. Alternatives become meaningless entertainment. Serious discussion is removed from the civil realm. Waves are endless. Wallowing is instinct. Saturation levels concerning past glories inflate the herd ego. Metaphorically, the mass mentality is dulled by its root mean square. Eventually, after its decline, the end result can be something better; it can never be greater.

Interlude: An Aphorism 1

The mission of the press is to spread culture while destroying the attention span.
-Karl Kraus (1874 - 1936)

This aphorism and many other fine examples of the style may be found in The World in a Phrase - A Brief History of the Aphorism by James Geary.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Six.9.11

9i. Any product necessarily has difficulties when processing its own environment. Despite claims to the contrary, a creation of a culture (or lack thereof) will generally find itself too biased to view it objectively. In attempting a rational analysis, alienation is both help and hindrance. Submerged, the alienated see past the murk to the oil slick beyond. Few venture farther. Loathing is enough.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Six.9.10

9h. Those embracing stupidity[12] choose the path of meat. The appeal is the addiction. Removal is the goal. Fantasy and delusion are easily (and happily) intertwined. Idiots create unreality. Idiots create unreality–so much the better if others suffer. Shit floats.

[12] The simple are not necessarily stupid.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Six.9.9

9g. Irrationality is an inherent trait among the human animal. The hind brain is not made for thinking, but then again neither is the hindquarters. One does not need to be stupid.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Six.9.8

9f. Rationality forced upon the inherently irrational is limited, broad and simplistic. It lends nothing to permanence. Any systemic stability always becomes rot. The world is not a frictionless surface.

On This Modern Warrior Archetype Part Six.9.7

9e. As always, Things Fall Apart on Their Own, but Maximum Advantage does nothing to stem decline. In general, it urges a faster drive and harder crash. Like running forward into a brick wall, a society and culture that embraces this path creates its own doom by eating itself. One way or another, these impulses are nurtured by unsustainable collective beliefs. In this environment, progress for its own sake is a primary myth. Under its smothering weight, even counter-cultures are not immune. Once the alternatives expire everyone is left the same, and more significantly thinks the same. Humans are adaptive animal. One might submit that uniformity is the key toward evolutionary annihilation. Since industrialization, no culture seeking unity has survived long. Machines wear out. Collectively, its imitation sterilizes.