It's Memorial Day

[Wrathbringer]

Be sure to blindly worship anyone with a gun.

To be clear, I honor those who have given their lives in defense of our country. Those who have wasted their lives in offense against other countries in the name of "defense"...Especially today I pity their families and mourn their senseless deaths and squandered potential as divinely created human beings.

Today, I also mourn the many millions of innocents we've killed in our conflicts, and not just the women and children average citizens not interested in the conflict, but also those innocent men and women in their armed forces. We call them "enemy combatants" and "terrorists" to deflect from the fact that most of them are just brainwashed regular guys trying to have a better life. Just like our men and women. Here's some evidence. (http://www.oldsantafetradingco.com/blog/why-was-i-not-mad-at-him)

Today, I remember that we used to fight for true freedom and independence rather than fight to dictate our version of it upon the world. The irony is astounding. We claim to value independence and freedom, but only on our terms. Today I remember that we use our troops and technological advances to preemptively kill those with other ideologies at an alarming rate and we bless these purveyors of death for doing it.

Today, I remember that by virtue of birth, not location, I am free and independent. It is not because of anyone with a gun. I remember that I am only slave to that which I enslave myself, and no other.

Today I remember that I am free because I AM.

[Ker_Thwap]

Be sure to blindly worship anyone with a gun.

To be clear, I honor those who have given their lives in defense of our country. Those who have wasted their lives in offense against other countries in the name of "defense"...Especially today I mourn their senseless deaths and squandered potential. Anyone agree?

It's a fine line, and maybe you're over thinking it a bit. Going against Hitler's Germany was offense in the name of defense. There are principles other than defense that also require an armed response. Supporting allies, crushing evil dictators, liberating people. Without these kind of actions, I don't think we'd have the freedoms that we enjoy today.

Obviously a certain percentage of the actions can be argued as unnecessary, ill-timed, or even counter productive to the overall goal. But if you're holding out for universal perfection, you're going to have a hard time.

So, yeah. I'm agreeing with you, especially mourn the senseless deaths and squandered potential. Act in such a way that the circumstances leading towards their senseless deaths aren't repeated and maybe even provide a warning against similar future mistakes. Maybe that will make their deaths just a little less senseless.

[kutter]

As someone who spent 22 years guaranteeing your right to dissent, I find your statement incredibly inappropriate on a day we honor the fallen. You may not agree with the choices that POLITICIANS make that send military members to their deaths but you should show reverence to their sacrifice; so do not insult the memory of those that paid the ultimate price to ensure your freedom.

[Wrathbringer]

As someone who spent 22 years guaranteeing your right to dissent, I find your statement incredibly inappropriate on a day we honor the fallen. You may not agree with the choices that POLITICIANS make that send military members to their deaths but you should show reverence to their sacrifice; so do not insult the memory of those that paid the ultimate price to ensure your freedom.

In my view, you have believed the lie, as so many have and do...and as I did. You, personally, and I, personally, have ensured nothing but tyranny, in my opinion. It is this very right to opinion that you claim to protect, yet you would dictate to me how I show reverence and to whom I show it. You may find this inappropriate, and that's fine, as long as you eventually do find it.

[Wrathbringer]

Today I have decided to be serious rather than troll this topic, so I have revised and clarified the op in hopes that it might actually be taken seriously by someone.

[Ker_Thwap]

Today I have decided to be serious rather than troll this topic, so I have revised and clarified the op in hopes that it might actually be taken seriously by someone.

I think you're looking at the past through rose colored glasses. It's always been about someone's version of freedom, it still is, it always will be.

Like it or not, you're independent by virtue of the those who have and who still protect your way of live. Don't believe for a second that mankind as a whole is generous towards free thinking and tolerant of liberty. You can live by your simplistic little code of freedom quite easily, because you're an educated outspoken adult white male in a country that rewards such things.

[Ker_Thwap]

As someone who spent 22 years guaranteeing your right to dissent, I find your statement incredibly inappropriate on a day we honor the fallen. You may not agree with the choices that POLITICIANS make that send military members to their deaths but you should show reverence to their sacrifice; so do not insult the memory of those that paid the ultimate price to ensure your freedom.

The fact that we're all able to gather a diverse group of people, in this forum and exchange thoughts on any sort of controversial ideas is really the key thing. On today of all days, it's a good day to bicker and argue in tribute to those have fallen for our right to be asses if that's what we so choose.

So, much respect to you for your service.

[Wrathbringer]

I think you're looking at the past through rose colored glasses. It's always been about someone's version of freedom, it still is, it always will be.

Like it or not, you're independent by virtue of the those who have and who still protect your way of live. Don't believe for a second that mankind as a whole is generous towards free thinking and tolerant of liberty. You can live by your simplistic little code of freedom quite easily, because you're an educated outspoken adult white male in a country that rewards such things.

I'm really trying not to troll here, but... You can live by your simplistic code of slavery quite easily, because you're an uneducated submissive black male in a country that rewards such things. :/ Now. Look what you've made me go and do.

[Ker_Thwap]

I'm really trying not to troll here, but... You can live by your simplistic code of slavery quite easily, because you're an uneducated submissive black male in a country that rewards such things. :/ Now. Look what you've made me go and do.

I don't think you're trolling at all, I answered you seriously. But yes, a submissive black male can have a voice in American politics, which is a pretty damned neat thing. Admit it, compared to a female born in a slum in Indonesia, it's a whole lot easier for you to make a stand on liberty than it is for her. That's what I was getting at.

[Wrathbringer]

I don't think you're trolling at all, I answered you seriously. But yes, a submissive black male can have a voice in American politics, which is a pretty damned neat thing. Admit it, compared to a female born in a slum in Indonesia, it's a whole lot easier for you to make a stand on liberty than it is for her. That's what I was getting at.

It's like you didn't even read what I said... Location is completely irrelevant because true freedom is a state of mind and a way of life not a corporeal entity to be contained by imaginary lines and ensured by the men with the biggest military budget (and alien technology). The very idea is absurd. "a whole lot easier" for me? How would you know? Have you been a female slut born in indonesia and attempted to ponder the true meaning of freedom to find it more difficult? Have you been a white man to find it easier?

[Silvean]

It's like you didn't even read what I said... Location is completely irrelevant because true freedom is a state of mind and a way of life not a corporeal entity to be contained by imaginary lines and ensured by the men with the biggest military budget (and alien technology). The very idea is absurd. "a whole lot easier" for me? How would you know? Have you been a female slut born in indonesia and attempted to ponder the true meaning of freedom to find it more difficult? Have you been a white man to find it easier?

I was going to ask for a short and coherent sentence expressing your personal philosophy. Are you an existentialist? A libertarian? Anarchist?

But then I saw the bit about "alien technology." Are you serious about that? Is it a joke? Is it more of this dull trolling thing I've been hearing about?

[Wrathbringer]

I was going to ask for a short and coherent sentence expressing your personal philosophy. Are you an existentialist? A libertarian? Anarchist?

But then I saw the bit about "alien technology." Are you serious about that? Is it a joke? Is it more of this dull trolling thing I've been hearing about?

That was added with humorous intent to diffuse any potential butthurtdom. How dare I.

Edit: To answer your question, I am simultaneously all of those, and none of those. I am free.

[Androidpk]

As someone who spent 22 years guaranteeing your right to dissent, I find your statement incredibly inappropriate on a day we honor the fallen. You may not agree with the choices that POLITICIANS make that send military members to their deaths but you should show reverence to their sacrifice; so do not insult the memory of those that paid the ultimate price to ensure your freedom.

What better way to honor the fallen than to acknowledge we have the fright to free speech, whether it is a popular opinion or not.

[Wrathbringer]

What better way to honor the fallen than to acknowledge we have the fright to free speech, whether it is a popular opinion or not.

A well placed typo. Today, those so blindly gung ho for 'Murica! are frightened by the concept of true freedom and will react instantly to squash it, as so helpfully illustrated by Comrade kutter.

[tyrant-201]

Insulting those who serve and protect, whether or not the government sent them into a war that is justified, is wrong. The same people you defame would be the same people to defend you in a just war, and they have no control over the political system.

That said, I think this government is guilty of international war crimes. In a just world, they'd be held accountable. But its the United States, no one will hold them accountable.

[Silvean]

To answer your question, I am simultaneously all of those, and none of those. I am free.

When I was in divinity school, I used to have lunch with all sorts of religious believers who expressed their faith with absolute certainty. Then I would go over to the communist bookstore in Harvard Square and talk to the people holding onto Marxist ideology. I still envy those people their romantic view of knowledge; all one needs to do is find the right interpretation for the right passage in the right book and the one right answer to every question is obtainable. But I have never been able to accept that sort of thing.

So here's the point. I cobble together my worldview as best as I am able and attach a silent "maybe" or "probably" to most of what I do and believe. But, at the end of the day, you have to say sentences that mean something and "I'm simultaneously all of those, and none of those" is meaningless unless you're some kind of mystic.

As an aside, one thing I fucking hate about the Internet is reading screeds where the author thinks they're smarter than everyone else. I see that crap on Facebook all the time. "Wake up sheeple!" "Listen up America!" Blah blah. If you think you are smarter than most of the world, you're the one that needs to wake up.

[Ker_Thwap]

It's like you didn't even read what I said... Location is completely irrelevant because true freedom is a state of mind and a way of life not a corporeal entity to be contained by imaginary lines and ensured by the men with the biggest military budget (and alien technology). The very idea is absurd. "a whole lot easier" for me? How would you know? Have you been a female slut born in indonesia and attempted to ponder the true meaning of freedom to find it more difficult? Have you been a white man to find it easier?

I didn't realize you were reverting to the Philosophy 101 theoretical argument. Maybe in the pretend world of theoretical freedom imagination you're free. But, in any kind of practical sense, your state of mind means shit. It's a lot easier to believe freedom is a state of mind when you're clean, fed and not being persecuted for your beliefs.

Sure, there's some value in keeping positive. Maybe give it a try, and then you won't need to scream for attention about the lies you're being fed. Wake up sheeple! Alien technology!

[Wrathbringer]

Insulting those who serve and protect, whether or not the government sent them into a war that is justified, is wrong. The same people you defame would be the same people to defend you in a just war, and they have no control over the political system.

That said, I think this government is guilty of international war crimes. In a just world, they'd be held accountable. But its the United States, no one will hold them accountable.

They have control of, and are completely responsible for, their own lives and actions. Why does no one believe this today? I'm poor, it's someone else's fault. I'm uneducated, it's someone else's fault. I'm not successful, it's someone else's fault... We learn as little children that "But so and so told me to!" is not an excuse for wrong behavior. Take some responsibility. I get that it sucks and no one wants to do it, but do it anyway. Stop making excuses for perpetrating a greater evil in the name of the greater good. "They're not responsible! Obama made them do it!" Please. They chose their master of their own free will. There is no one else at fault.

[Androidpk]

>They have control of, and are completely responsible for, their own lives and actions. Why does no one believe this today?

You served.

[Wrathbringer]

When I was in divinity school, I used to have lunch with all sorts of religious believers who expressed their faith with absolute certainty. Then I would go over to the communist bookstore in Harvard Square and talk to the people holding onto Marxist ideology. I still envy those people their romantic view of knowledge; all one needs to do is find the right interpretation for the right passage in the right book and the one right answer to every question is obtainable. But I have never been able to accept that sort of thing.

So here's the point. I cobble together my worldview as best as I am able and attach a silent "maybe" or "probably" to most of what I do and believe. But, at the end of the day, you have to say sentences that mean something and "I'm simultaneously all of those, and none of those" is meaningless unless you're some kind of mystic.

As an aside, one thing I fucking hate about the Internet is reading screeds where the author thinks they're smarter than everyone else. I see that crap on Facebook all the time. "Wake up sheeple!" "Listen up America!" Blah blah. If you think you are smarter than most of the world, you're the one that needs to wake up.

Meaningless? I disagree. A cipher may appear meaningless, but only until it is deciphered. You're still living in the aesthetic. You're going to have to go deeper.

Not to toot my own horn, but since you mentioned it, I'm a genius. Google search what percentage of people are, and then deduce whether or not I should believe that I am smarter than most of the world. Someone has to be. Might as well be me. And maybe you, but google says probably not. If you are, then just ignore me. You'll get there eventually, maybe, and so I'm not talking to you.

[Ker_Thwap]

I think someone kicked Wrathbringers existential puppy this morning.

[Silvean]

Meaningless? I disagree. A cipher may appear meaningless, but only until it is deciphered. You're still living in the aesthetic. You're going to have to go deeper.

Not to toot my own horn, but since you mentioned it, I'm a genius. Google search what percentage of people are, and then deduce whether or not I should believe that I am smarter than most of the world. Someone has to be. Might as well be me. And maybe you, but google says probably not. If you are, then just ignore me. You'll get there eventually, maybe, and so I'm not talking to you.

Wow. Well, if Google says it, that means something. I got Bing to say I was a genius once but I think it was just a marketing strategy on their part. Never Google though; that is some top-shelf shit right there.

[Androidpk]

I think someone kicked Wrathbringers existential puppy this morning.

You just had to go and tell him you already found the treasure!

[Ker_Thwap]

You just had to go and tell him you already found the treasure!

Oops! At least I didn't take away his freedom to daydream about finding the treasure, in his genius head! ... or did I?

[Wrathbringer]

Wow. Well, if Google says it, that means something. I got Bing to say I was a genius once but I think it was just a marketing strategy on their part. Never Google though; that is some top-shelf shit right there.

I realize it's initially disturbing and intimidating to discover that you're not the smartest person in the room, especially after you just bragged about schooling, but you could have at least admitted that if I am a genius it is appropriate for me to assume that I am smarter than most of the world. That's empirical. Where's Latrinsorm when you need him.

[Wrathbringer]

>They have control of, and are completely responsible for, their own lives and actions. Why does no one believe this today?

You served.

The only person who can truly understand an addict and their plight is another addict, my friend.

[Androidpk]

The only person who can truly understand an addict and their plight is another addict, my friend.

Well then given your genius status you should understand the flaw in what you've stated about choice.

[Ker_Thwap]

Well then given your genius status you should understand the flaw in what you've stated about choice.

7444

[Silvean]

I realize it's initially disturbing and intimidating to discover that you're not the smartest person in the room, especially after you just bragged about schooling, but you could have at least admitted that if I am a genius it is appropriate for me to assume that I am smarter than most of the world. That's empirical. Where's Latrinsorm when you need him.

I hope it didn't come off as bragging; that's not how I meant it.

I accept the view of multiple intelligences. My friend who can tear apart a car engine and put it back together is intelligent in a different way than people I knew who would glance at a page of Arabic vocabulary for 5 - 10 minutes and have it memorized.

It's vitally important to remember that "geniuses" and all sorts of very smart people can be wrong and often are.

[Ker_Thwap]

I hope it didn't come off as bragging; that's not how I meant it.

I accept the view of multiple intelligences. My friend who can tear apart a car engine and put it back together is intelligent in a different way than people I knew who would glance at a page of Arabic vocabulary for 5 - 10 minutes and have it memorized.

It's vitally important to remember that "geniuses" and all sorts of very smart people can be wrong and often are.

How dare you have life experiences that are different from mine! Then you go and discuss them on the internet! Step down from your high horse Sir!

[Silvean]

How dare you have life experiences that are different from mine! Then you go and discuss them on the internet! Step down from your high horse Sir!

:D

[Tgo01]

http://www.dailyhaha.com/_pics/internet-arguments-guy.jpg

[Androidpk]

How dare you have life experiences that are different from mine! Then you go and discuss them on the internet! Step down from your high horse Sir!


http://i.imgur.com/Kexmujq.jpg

[Silvean]

New desktop wallpaper for everyone -- you're welcome!

7445

[Fallen]

Uh, okay.

Happy Memorial Day guys. Thanks to those who served.

[Wrathbringer]

I hope it didn't come off as bragging; that's not how I meant it.

I accept the view of multiple intelligences. My friend who can tear apart a car engine and put it back together is intelligent in a different way than people I knew who would glance at a page of Arabic vocabulary for 5 - 10 minutes and have it memorized.

It's vitally important to remember that "geniuses" and all sorts of very smart people can be wrong and often are.

I remain teachable. Do you?

[Tisket]

Today I have decided to be serious rather than troll this topic, so I have revised and clarified the op in hopes that it might actually be taken seriously by someone.

In much the same spirit I decided to resist my urge to automatically disagree with you just because you are a disgusting worm.

We do have an almost sycophantic worship for the military in this country and questioning this adulation is not an act of treason.

I also believe that politicians should stop paying lip service to our military dead and start insisting on improved veteran benefits.

I was also curious about how many US casualties of war there were: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_military_casualties_of_war

but, when I tried to find a similar breakdown of enemy combatant casualties I couldn't. Maybe someone with better google fu can find something as well as the death tolls of non combatants. Although I imagine those figures would be mostly wild guesses.

[tyrant-201]

In much the same spirit I decided to resist my urge to automatically disagree with you just because you are a disgusting worm.

We do have an almost sycophantic worship for the military in this country and questioning this adulation is not an act of treason.

I also believe that politicians should stop paying lip service to our military dead and start insisting on improved veteran benefits.

I was also curious about how many US casualties of war there were: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_military_casualties_of_war

but, when I tried to find a similar breakdown of enemy combatant casualties I couldn't. Maybe someone with better google fu can find something as well as the death tolls of non combatants. Although I imagine those figures would be mostly wild guesses.

They don't keep track of them, because they don't matter to them.

A war of aggression. (Against Geneva Convention)
Torture (Against Geneva Convention)
Indiscriminate killing of civilians (Against Geneva Convention)

It's safe to say, they don't care.

[Wrathbringer]

They don't keep track of them, because they don't matter to them.

A war of aggression. (Against Geneva Convention)
Torture (Against Geneva Convention)
Indiscriminate killing of civilians (Against Geneva Convention)

It's safe to say, they don't care.

Could you clarify they and them?

[Wrathbringer]

And did anyone check my evidence link? You can bet Latrinsorm will, and you don't want to be late to that party.

[Grey]

Not to toot my own horn, but since you mentioned it, I'm a genius.

Lol by which metric? If it's any of the tests Mensa accepts can you post the paperwork? I need a good laugh.

[Tisket]

And did anyone check my evidence link? You can bet Latrinsorm will, and you don't want to be late to that party.

Personal anecdotes are not evidence.

[tyrant-201]

Could you clarify they and them?

Why do I need to?

[Thondalar]

I remain teachable. Do you?

Lol.

[Wrathbringer]

Personal anecdotes are not evidence.

Then it will be worthless to you. Don't read it.


Why do I need to?

Because those are things that both sides do?

[Wrathbringer]

Lol by which metric? If it's any of the tests Mensa accepts can you post the paperwork? I need a good laugh.

Turns out, I'm too smart to pay a club to confirm what I already know. If you have the receipt for your paperwork, I could use a good laugh.

[Grey]

Turns out, I'm too smart to pay a club to confirm what I already know. If you have the receipt for your paperwork, I could use a good laugh.

The tests that Mensa accepts are administered independently of the club. Mensa accepts around 200 tests, many of which are administered by school districts, graduate school entrance boards, etc. Once again, which test did you take and where's the paperwork to back it up?

[Thondalar]

Today, I also mourn the many millions of innocents we've killed in our conflicts, and not just the women and children average citizens not interested in the conflict, but also those innocent men and women in their armed forces. We call them "enemy combatants" and "terrorists" to deflect from the fact that most of them are just brainwashed regular guys trying to have a better life. Just like our men and women.

What would you rather we call them? "Brainwashed average people"? That would make for some rather awkward news reports, I think. Like most of your drivel, this is completely inane and pointless.


Today, I remember that we used to fight for true freedom and independence rather than fight to dictate our version of it upon the world. The irony is astounding.

Either people are free or they aren't. There aren't multiple versions.


We claim to value independence and freedom, but only on our terms.

Really? What terms are those?


Today I remember that we use our troops and technological advances to preemptively kill those with other ideologies at an alarming rate and we bless these purveyors of death for doing it.

Right. Based completely on ideology and nothing else.


Today, I remember that by virtue of birth, not location, I am free and independent. It is not because of anyone with a gun.

Lol. Hey man, I can be free in my head too...but if my body isn't free, who gives a shit? While I, personally, agree that mankind has basic human rights that exist simply because we do, history (and even current events!) proves that not everyone thinks that way. The only way to prevent people that don't think that way from violating your rights is to be on the side with the bigger guns.


I remember that I am only slave to that which I enslave myself, and no other.

Yeah? Bet you won't fly to North Korea and tell Kim that to his face.


Today I remember that I am free because I AM.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z_Nq3xuHkgE

[Wrathbringer]

The tests that Mensa accepts are administered independently of the club. Mensa accepts around 200 tests, many of which are administered by school districts, graduate school entrance boards, etc. Once again, which test did you take and where's the paperwork to back it up?

I know why you bother. I think you do, too. I've nothing to prove, therefore, I don't bother. :)

[Wrathbringer]

What would you rather we call them? "Brainwashed average people"? That would make for some rather awkward news reports, I think. Like most of your drivel, this is completely inane and pointless.



Either people are free or they aren't. There aren't multiple versions.



Really? What terms are those?



Right. Based completely on ideology and nothing else.



Lol. Hey man, I can be free in my head too...but if my body isn't free, who gives a shit? While I, personally, agree that mankind has basic human rights that exist simply because we do, history (and even current events!) proves that not everyone thinks that way. The only way to prevent people that don't think that way from violating your rights is to be on the side with the bigger guns.



Yeah? Bet you won't fly to North Korea and tell Kim that to his face.




https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z_Nq3xuHkgE

Your troll is weak, sir.

"You may say I'm a dreamer, but I'm not the only one. I hope someday you'll join us." I made that up just now and it seemed appropriate.

[Grey]

I know why you bother. I think you do, too. I've nothing to prove, therefore, I don't bother. :)

So you're telling me that you've never bothered taking the PSAT, SAT, ACT, GMAT or GRE?

[Wrathbringer]

So you're telling me that you've never bothered taking the PSAT, SAT, ACT, GMAT or GRE?

Wow, is that what you heard because that's nothing like what I posted?

[Grey]

Wow, is that what you heard because that's nothing like what I posted?

I didn't post that to summarize what you said. I asked you a question. Have you taken any of those tests?

[Wrathbringer]

I didn't post that to summarize what you said. I asked you a question. Have you taken any of those tests?

Why? Are they missing?

[SHAFT]

So you're telling me that you've never bothered taking the PSAT, SAT, ACT, GMAT or GRE?

I don't think I took any of that. Fuck college.

[Grey]

You may have gotten the PSAT during school. They're always trying to sneak in aptitude tests. Many different kinds as well, not just the PSAT.

[Thondalar]

I took the SAT, but it was in 7th grade for Duke TIP. Wonder if Mensa would accept that.


edit: Great program, that TIP. I studied physics at Wesleyan University for a month during the summer between 7th and 8th grade. Had a blast.

[Tgo01]

In a genius with a 13 inch penis and I make 40 million dollars a year, and believe me that's a lot of afk scripting.

[Grey]

I took the SAT, but it was in 7th grade for Duke TIP. Wonder if Mensa would accept that.


edit: Great program, that TIP. I studied physics at Wesleyan University for a month during the summer between 7th and 8th grade. Had a blast.

CTY, TIP and equivalents are great programs. I'm sure WB administrates them or something.

[Wrathbringer]

In a genius with a 13mm penis and I make 40 million silvers a year, and believe me that's a lot of afk scripting.

Fixed.


CTY, TIP and equivalents are great programs. I'm sure WB administrates them or something.

Administrates? I wrote them.

[Warriorbird]

I took the SAT, but it was in 7th grade for Duke TIP. Wonder if Mensa would accept that.


edit: Great program, that TIP. I studied physics at Wesleyan University for a month during the summer between 7th and 8th grade. Had a blast.

TIP was fun. I did architecture of all things.

[Wrathbringer]

Did anyone take that test in high school that told you what you might be good at doing? Mine said I'd make a good farmer. :/ I still don't know what to think about that.

[Latrinsorm]

Insulting those who serve and protect, whether or not the government sent them into a war that is justified, is wrong. The same people you defame would be the same people to defend you in a just war, and they have no control over the political system.What do you think of the people who served in the Confederate States Army?
Where's Latrinsorm when you need him.Empirically, nobody ever needs Latrinsorm.

[Wrathbringer]

Empirically, nobody ever needs Latrinsorm.

I do.

[tyrant-201]

What do you think of the people who served in the Confederate States Army?

There's a school of thought among many people who think the Civil War was unjustified. Depends on your position, I guess. Did the Confederate States have the right to sever ties with the US?

[Tisket]

Then it will be worthless to you. Don't read it.

That's the story of all your posts though.

[Candor]

There's a school of thought among many people who think the Civil War was unjustified. Depends on your position, I guess. Did the Confederate States have the right to sever ties with the US?

A school of thought among many young people (for the most part), you mean.

[Latrinsorm]

There's a school of thought among many people who think the Civil War was unjustified. Depends on your position, I guess. Did the Confederate States have the right to sever ties with the US?No, but that wouldn't have kept me from getting shot by a Confederate serviceman, and it doesn't keep those parts of the country from referring to it as the War of Northern Aggression (thereby making their part in the war "just"). Presumably my opinion of any future civil war would not keep Americans from killing me in that either, so I would be cautious about declaring American servicemen as "defenders". In general I try to avoid generalities.

[Wrathbringer]

There's a school of thought among many people who think the Civil War was unjustified. Depends on your position, I guess. Did the Confederate States have the right to sever ties with the US?

If the US truly practices what they preach in regards to liberty and justice for all, why would there be a problem with secession? If a state wishes to be free and independent, we go help them with guns and bombs. It's what we do. How can we balk at it when our own "free" states want it without destroying the final 1% of our credibility?

[Warriorbird]

In general I try to avoid generalities.

http://cdn.meme.am/images/300x/68999.jpg

[tyrant-201]

If the US truly practices what they preach in regards to liberty and justice for all, why would there be a problem with secession? If a state wishes to be free and independent, we go help them with guns and bombs. It's what we do. How can we balk at it when our own "free" states want it without destroying the final 1% of our credibility?

I'm not arguing for or against it?

[Wrathbringer]

A school of thought among many young people (for the most part), you mean.

...among many truly wise people (for the most part), you mean.

[tyrant-201]

No, but that wouldn't have kept me from getting shot by a Confederate serviceman, and it doesn't keep those parts of the country from referring to it as the War of Northern Aggression (thereby making their part in the war "just"). Presumably my opinion of any future civil war would not keep Americans from killing me in that either, so I would be cautious about declaring American servicemen as "defenders". In general I try to avoid generalities.

You'd have also been drafted in the Civil War, and not had the choice of joining the military. You'll note that I differentiated initially between a just and unjust war. What we're in currently is not just.

The soldiers aren't the enemy. They're not typically bad people. And if China invaded next week, they'd be the first to defend you. I'd say that's pretty important.

[Wrathbringer]

I'm not arguing for or against it?

I didn't say that you were?

[tyrant-201]

A school of thought among many young people (for the most part), you mean.

I'm not sure what age has to do with someone's opinion on this. No one's alive to remember it.

[Wrathbringer]

You'd have also been drafted in the Civil War, and not had the choice of joining the military. You'll note that I differentiated initially between a just and unjust war. What we're in currently is not just.

The soldiers aren't the enemy. They're not typically bad people. And if China invaded next week, they'd be the first to defend you. I'd say that's pretty important.

And this excuses their previous deeds in some way?

[tyrant-201]

And this excuses their previous deeds in some way?

Clearly in your opinion it does not. I think there's a lot to be upset with the government/military about. Soldiers are low men on the totem pole.

[Wrathbringer]

Clearly in your opinion it does not. I think there's a lot to be upset with the government/military about. Soldiers are low men on the totem pole.

Remove them and the high men fall.

[Buckwheet]

New desktop wallpaper for everyone -- you're welcome!

7445

Fuck the rest of this thread.

Is that Edward Norton as a centaur? Fucking yes it is.

[Latrinsorm]

You'd have also been drafted in the Civil War, and not had the choice of joining the military. You'll note that I differentiated initially between a just and unjust war. What we're in currently is not just.

The soldiers aren't the enemy. They're not typically bad people. And if China invaded next week, they'd be the first to defend you. I'd say that's pretty important.Sure, but what if Alabama invaded? Or what if we invaded it (again)? Aren't those scenarios way more likely than China invading? I'm not singling you out here, plenty of people talk about how our soldiers defend us from foreign threats. I just think it's an odd way of looking at it when we've seen a more recent and much more deadly civil war than foreign invasion.

[Tgo01]

I just think it's an odd way of looking at it when we've seen a more recent and much more deadly civil war than foreign invasion.

Those damn Canadians burned our White House down! And we haven't paid them back for it yet!!!!

[Wrathbringer]

Sure, but what if Alabama invaded? Or what if we invaded it (again)? Aren't those scenarios way more likely than China invading? I'm not singling you out here, plenty of people talk about how our soldiers defend us from foreign threats. I just think it's an odd way of looking at it when we've seen a more recent and much more deadly civil war than foreign invasion.

You just keep...making...sense... why? This is the pc...


Those damn Canadians burned our White House down! And we haven't paid them back for it yet!!!!

Priorities. Once we punish them for Justin bieber, if there's anything left, then we can get to crimes against the state.

[tyrant-201]

Sure, but what if Alabama invaded? Or what if we invaded it (again)? Aren't those scenarios way more likely than China?

No

[Androidpk]

Fuck the rest of this thread.

Is that Edward Norton as a centaur? Fucking yes it is.

Ugh, I just caught myself replying, "No, it's Edward Norton."

Long day..

[ClydeR]

Everybody likes veterans. It's just that they cost a lot of medical expenses when they come back home. At least three of the presidential candidates have found a plan to address the cost.


While Sen. Rand Paul (R., Ky.) was formally launching his 2016 presidential campaign Tuesday, still-not-a-candidate Jeb Bush was in Colorado, where he called for privatizing some parts of veterans’ health care.

More... (http://blogs.wsj.com/washwire/2015/04/08/jeb-bush-calls-for-privatizing-veterans-health-care/)


The effort to privatize elements of the VA system is a priority of the Koch brothers-backed group, Concerned Veterans for America, which in February called for creating a “premium-support private insurance option” for current veterans and limiting eligibility requirements for future veterans.

Mr. Bush becomes the third 2016 GOP contender – following Mr. Paul and Marco Rubio of Florida – to support a system of vouchers to replace or compete with the VA health care system, which experienced intense criticism last year when an internal audit revealed that VA employees falsified reports of patient wait times at facilities across the country.

The good thing about the plan is that it would cost taxpayers a lot less money than the current system, because the government would provide a voucher, not the actual health care. If the cost of health care goes up, that doesn't necessarily mean the government has to increase the amount of the voucher. Also, the enrollment requirements for new veterans would be tougher than for current veterans.


Future veterans and those not already enrolled in VA health care would be required to enter a new VA insurance system with varying levels of coverage. Not all would qualify for subsidies.

Nearly one-fifth of future veterans — those in the lowest VA benefit levels, Priorities 7 and 8 — would not be eligible under the new system. About 1.6 million patients now are rated in those categories, but their benefits would be grandfathered in.

More... (http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2015/02/26/va-health-care-task-force/24052871/)

[Thondalar]

Sure, but what if Alabama invaded? Or what if we invaded it (again)? Aren't those scenarios way more likely than China invading? I'm not singling you out here, plenty of people talk about how our soldiers defend us from foreign threats. I just think it's an odd way of looking at it when we've seen a more recent and much more deadly civil war than foreign invasion.

Sounds to me like those defenders are doing an amazing job, then. Zero successful foreign invasions in the last 200 years? I'll take that.

[Androidpk]

Sounds to me like those defenders are doing an amazing job, then. Zero successful foreign invasions in the last 200 years? I'll take that.

What about the domestic invasions?

[Tgo01]

Sounds to me like those defenders are doing an amazing job, then. Zero successful foreign invasions in the last 200 years? I'll take that.

Latrin is the worst kind of scientist. Rather than viewing negative results as results he views negative results as a lack of a result.

No foreign invasions in 200+ years?! Surely this proves our military blows donkey dick.

[Androidpk]

Latrinsorm and tgo have never been photographed together. Coincidence?

[Smythe]

Sorry I ain' weighed in afore on it. I was rememberin' we're not here because of the path we think lies before us, but because of the path that lies behind us.

An', I wanna be a TGO bot when I'm all growed up.

- Smythe

[Androidpk]

Sorry I ain' weighed in afore on it. I was rememberin' we're not here because of the path we think lies before us, but because of the path that lies behind us.

An', I wanna be a TGO bot when I'm all growed up.

- Smythe

Time is a flat circle, man.

[Ker_Thwap]

What about the domestic invasions?


I read an excellent Jack Reacher documentary about this very thing. Some horribly sexist local militia/cult in Idaho, or one of those big unpopulated states out there got a hold of a bunch of missiles, and were threatening the U.S.A.. It turns out that one well trained ex military policeman can dismantle a domestic invasion quite easily.

[Latrinsorm]

Latrin is the worst kind of scientist. Rather than viewing negative results as results he views negative results as a lack of a result. No foreign invasions in 200+ years?! Surely this proves our military blows donkey dick.That is not at all what I said.
I read an excellent Jack Reacher documentary about this very thing. Some horribly sexist local militia/cult in Idaho, or one of those big unpopulated states out there got a hold of a bunch of missiles, and were threatening the U.S.A.. It turns out that one well trained ex military policeman can dismantle a domestic invasion quite easily.Or, failing that, a cook.

http://img.wikinut.com/img/d2m0j.4x.7n24a2h/jpeg/0/Steven-Seagal-is-Casey-Ryback-Cook,-Lover,-Fighter.jpeg

[caelric]

Be sure to blindly worship anyone with a gun.

To be clear, I honor those who have given their lives in defense of our country. Those who have wasted their lives in offense against other countries in the name of "defense"...Especially today I pity their families and mourn their senseless deaths and squandered potential as divinely created human beings.

Today, I also mourn the many millions of innocents we've killed in our conflicts, and not just the women and children average citizens not interested in the conflict, but also those innocent men and women in their armed forces. We call them "enemy combatants" and "terrorists" to deflect from the fact that most of them are just brainwashed regular guys trying to have a better life. Just like our men and women. Here's some evidence. (http://www.oldsantafetradingco.com/blog/why-was-i-not-mad-at-him)

Today, I remember that we used to fight for true freedom and independence rather than fight to dictate our version of it upon the world. The irony is astounding. We claim to value independence and freedom, but only on our terms. Today I remember that we use our troops and technological advances to preemptively kill those with other ideologies at an alarming rate and we bless these purveyors of death for doing it.

Today, I remember that by virtue of birth, not location, I am free and independent. It is not because of anyone with a gun. I remember that I am only slave to that which I enslave myself, and no other.

Today I remember that I am free because I AM.

I get that the USA has done bad things, both in the far and near past, and will probably do bad things in the future. And that there are people who think that the USA is the embodiment of pure evil and that Kim Jong Un is the bright and shining leader of the future. Fine, no sweat, everyone is entitled to their opinion, and part of what I have sworn to protect and defend (the US Constitution, including the Bill of Rights) covers your right to have said opinions, and voice them in any way you want.

But seriously, the one day a year that is dedicated to honoring fallen war veterans, which includes those who were killed in what some people consider the last just war the US engaged in, that's the day you pick to shit on the US military?

Really?

You couldn't have waited a day?

For shame, sir, for shame.

[Wrathbringer]

I get that the USA has done bad things, both in the far and near past, and will probably do bad things in the future. And that there are people who think that the USA is the embodiment of pure evil and that Kim Jong Un is the bright and shining leader of the future. Fine, no sweat, everyone is entitled to their opinion, and part of what I have sworn to protect and defend (the US Constitution, including the Bill of Rights) covers your right to have said opinions, and voice them in any way you want.

But seriously, the one day a year that is dedicated to honoring fallen war veterans, which includes those who were killed in what some people consider the last just war the US engaged in, that's the day you pick to shit on the US military?

Really?

You couldn't have waited a day?

For shame, sir, for shame.

You can't muzzle me, comrade. I'm free.

[Back]

I just took an online intelligence test of 20 questions and it said I was a genius!

[JackWhisper]

I just took an online intelligence test of 20 questions and it said I was a genius!

Still not as smart as Nairdin.

http://forum.gsplayers.com/showthread.php?86832-Hilarious-AM-conversation

[LNet]-GSIV:Nairdin: "i figure the world is overpopulated with morons, so i take my 171 IQ and her amazing looks and health and mix em together to make the world a better place"
[LNet]-You: "SO REALLY, Nairdin, you said you're one of the top 10 smartest people in the world"
[LNet]-GSIV:Nairdin: "i am. i have had my IQ tested over 50 times."

[Back]

Yeah, anyone telling you they have a high IQ has less than average because they have other issues.

[Thondalar]

.Or, failing that, a cook.

Hey, some of us cooks used to do other things with our lives, before deciding culinary arts was our calling. Don't knock it.

[Thondalar]

Yeah, anyone telling you they have a high IQ has less than average because they have other issues.

If you ask, I'll tell you I have a higher than average IQ.

I won't just lead out with it at a dinner party, though.

[Thondalar]

Time is a flat circle, man.

Time is a misunderstood concept proffered by ignorant apes that are consumed by their own mortality.

[Androidpk]

Time is a misunderstood concept proffered by ignorant apes that are consumed by their own mortality.

Death created time to grow the things it would kill.

[Tisket]

I just took an online intelligence test of 20 questions and it said I was a genius!

lol

[Parkbandit]

Yeah, anyone telling you they have a high IQ has less than average because they have other issues.


I just took an online intelligence test of 20 questions and it said I was a genius!

Anecdotal sure.. but the theory seems to be pretty solid so far.

[Wrathbringer]

If you ask, I'll tell you I have a higher than average IQ.

I won't just lead out with it at a dinner party, though.

I quit going to those a long time ago. Got tired of feeling like an adult trying to fit in at a kindergarten birthday party. I found that leading with my IQ did help to scare off most of the cretins with their superficial weather/sports/video games drivel so that I could eat in peace, though, so there's that at least.

[Latrinsorm]

Hey, some of us cooks used to do other things with our lives, before deciding culinary arts was our calling. Don't knock it.Do you have images disabled?