Have you read the Communist Manifesto by Marx and Engles? The Communist Manifesto was the precursor to the socialist movements of in our current history. From what I understand of Mr. Obama's stances and potential policies, we elected a socialist. (And no, I did not vote for John McCain :) )
Quick definitions:
Communism is an economic theory--nationalizing the economy, comrade.
Socialism is a governance theory--morality is for the good of the whole decided by the self-appointed few.
Note: Since I am LDS I must make this note, one must be careful not to confuse or justly compare the Law of Consecration with communism or socialism. They are similar in tenants, not motive. As President Ezra T. Benson stated, communism is Satan's counterfeit to the Lord's Law. In order to have a counterfeit, the counterfeit is required to seem almost identical. Such is the case with these two particular forms of governance economically and socially.
There is a careful balance between government and being governed. What concerns me about President-elect Obama is with each new government program we create, a piece of our liberty and choice is taken.
I am undoubtedly hypocritical. We live in government subsidized housing. Yet, it is because we live in this type of housing that I feel I can make this assertion. Our rent is determined by our income. My liberty to make "as much money as I want" is denied me. If I make "too much money," (and we are NOT talking major wealth) our family is out in the cold--we are required to "move out." My choice for income is limited while I live here. We are required to "turn in paperwork" to an authority where "they" decide whether or not we can live in our current residence depending on the load of paperwork and list of requirements. Honestly, this is a source of anxiety for myself and many of the women with whom I have discussed the issue that live in these particular housing units. Anxiety is rarely a pleasant experience.
An idealist might think: "Well, if you are making 'that much' money, then you could afford another from of housing." This is partially true. Given the current housing market and/or economic market it is easy to see why this statement is a half-truth. And after having lived in 5 different communities in our six years of marriage, I can safely say the GRASS IS NOT GREENER in any other community or with any other/or additional government programs.
To save you from reading an entire treatise on government, I must assert my position that "leveling the playing field" to "help" generally only creates dependence and stifles the creativity of the mind. The great minds need challenges through which they can solve problems, working to improve and succeed. If everything (or even most things) are given to a person--so long as they fill out the appropriate documentation--the person does not need to stretch their mind or soul; the person only needs to be able to organize (within a 30 day period), sign on the dotted-line, and understand the court appointed grievance process.
I come to this without formally organizing my thoughts--though tempting to do so--I do recognize the importance these programs can play as well--so long as dependence is not created. I have known many people in my life that have used a "government program" as a stepping stone. Indeed, used "the program" to their advantage allowing their minds to be challenged and proven to take the "next step" in providing a better life for themselves or their families; or providing health care so desperately needed; or any number of notable situations. On that level, I openly recognize with gratitude the availability of public assistance.
Though I may not agree with Obama's campaign promises, I must recognize with great respect the historic election of an African-American president, and the Regan-like patriotism which has resulted in the nation from Mr. Obama's campaign. These two things are vitally important to our country's history.
Only time will tell how things will work together for this President-elect. Only time will tell whether or not we truly have elected a socialist quick to nationalize what we currently call our rights. In the mean time, I'll stick to watching the stock market drop and playing pirates with my children :)
This is true. I mean to look back at the USA we do a lot of socialism. Schools, road system, libraries, medicare, social security, and on and on. I still dream of a time when health care is integrated into that same ideal. The turmoil is that I'm a healthy white male and there fore in this capitalistic environment I can really flourish. I mean why should I help others that are doing crap to help themselves? I think that Obama (I vote for Hilary) does understand the American dream. That if you work hard you can benefit. For someone in the projects its a whole new story we have a hard time understanding that their does need a little catalyst to get you going. And that is where limited social programs come in. Listening to his speeches I think he gets it.
ReplyDeleteOn the idea that Law of Consecration differs from communism or socialism really is explained with Aristotle in his theories of the best type of government. That a form of communism and socialism would be perfect if it was ran by a perfect just being. Unfortunate on earth there is no such man and is therefore the worst type. In the law of consecration you have a perfect justice. This is how i've always seen it. I could be way off the mark.
ReplyDeleteWow, this is what I would have signed my name to as "agreed". I do hope the best for Pres. elect and the inspiration he gives the coutry is needed, but you could not be more "right on" with my thoughts on government and yes, how important playing pirates and teaching your children daily is. Our choices are what make us and if we choose good, good will come. Stand together in families and in the gospel are good. Love, Mom
ReplyDeleteI've always understood the difference between socialism/communism and the law of consecration to be that an individual owns things. In consecration, what is needed is given to be controlled by the individual, but in communism everything is the government's. Is that right, Bridget?
ReplyDeleteVery good point Raychel. That makes great sense, I didn't even think of that. thanks!
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