We don't need your Western values.

BastiatLives comments on Apr 11, 2019:

\\Could the Western culture be oppressive to other cultures?\\ Our current culture is sick. The disease is our addiction to outrage. The Japanese are rejecting this sickness. it is not about oppression. The Japanese copied the best from Chinese culture (kibuki, alphabet, architecture) they took...

Naomi replies on Apr 12, 2019:

Hi. Well, I needed to make the OP a little controversial, and thus debatable, and hence you're here! I did a bit of research. In Japan, more and more women are uninterested in the traditional lifestyle, i.e., getting married and having children. Women's liberty is much endorsed while they are less willing to have committed relationships. Homosexuality is better accommodated than before and same-sex partnership (not marriage) is officially recognised. The Japanese don't seem much to recognise issues regarding political correctness, free speech or hate speech among themselves - it's all down to politeness and good manners at the moment, which is nice. So, these concepts may come from the West, yet the openness of sexuality, abortion rights, rather aggressive protest for free speech, etc., may be a little too much for them to adopt or may be incompatible with their values... What do you think?

We don't need your Western values.

Facci comments on Apr 11, 2019:

The Japanese Constitution was written by Douglass MacArthur.

Naomi replies on Apr 12, 2019:

Hi. And...? If you could tell me what your point is that would be very helpful.

We don't need your Western values.

SpearCypher comments on Apr 11, 2019:

You may hate us as your enemy, you may despise our people, you may hate everything we do. but what you may not do, is ignore us. because that puts you at risk

Naomi replies on Apr 12, 2019:

Hi. I'm not sure what you mean by "you". Still, thanks for your input.

We don't need your Western values.

iThink comments on Apr 11, 2019:

Western Culture is not deliberately oppressive. No one forced the Japanese to adopt American popular culture. It seems there is fallacy in the notion that Western Culture equates with Western values. IMHO those are two very different things. When I think about Western Values I think about concepts ...

Naomi replies on Apr 12, 2019:

Hi. You make a fair point that values and culture are not quite the same. Values are like principles, ideas, standards, that kind of things, and people behave on the basis of these things. There are multiple values and two people may behave differently based on the values they follow, and these values can be very different if not incompatible. Meanwhile, I see culture as something that reflects values in forms of art, music, etc., as you put it. When paintings, pieces of music, etc. and the stories behind them inspire us, that's because what comes out of them resonate with our values - maybe? In that sense, do you think values and culture correlate and interact with one another? Also, It is intriguing when you say Western culture is not "deliberately" oppressive. Does that imply that the West perhaps "subconsciously" assumes that the Western values are the best and therefore the others should learn from it?

We don't need your Western values.

MLACANA comments on Apr 11, 2019:

Trans people are castrated in Japan, how about that? I bet moronic liberals are not ok with THAT value LOL #westernvalues #westernculture

Naomi replies on Apr 12, 2019:

Please... do not go there... lol!

Tell me - Is it OK to talk about socialism and communisms like synonyms?

govols comments on Apr 10, 2019:

The thing is, both are economic models based on ownership of the means of production, and really consider each individual and his labor potential to be the means of production. Under socialism it is owned by the State; under communisim it is owned by the collection of economic units. Neither are ...

Naomi replies on Apr 11, 2019:

How about Scandinavian/Nordic countries, like Norway, Sweden, etc.?They certainly don't follow pure socialist ideas, but they have democratically-elected governments which are large and are supported by taxpayers who pay rather a lot of tax, thereby enabling providing health care, education, pensions, etc. which are free for every citizen. Maybe we can call it compassionate capitalism... ?

Islam has contributed to some of the world's greatest achievements and learning.

modestMillennial comments on Apr 10, 2019:

My opinion is that we should welcome people from all walks of life and encourage them to embrace western values: equality, liberty and democracy. We should also be a lot tougher on people who don't. Do we need more scientists, mathematicians and architects? **Of course...** Do we need more ...

Naomi replies on Apr 11, 2019:

British sarcasm there - great! Lol

Tell me - Is it OK to talk about socialism and communisms like synonyms?

govols comments on Apr 10, 2019:

The thing is, both are economic models based on ownership of the means of production, and really consider each individual and his labor potential to be the means of production. Under socialism it is owned by the State; under communisim it is owned by the collection of economic units. Neither are ...

Naomi replies on Apr 11, 2019:

Hi, thanks for your input. Do you think it is possible that while a government is big it does not interfere with citizens' individual rights and freedom?

WHERE ARE THE LEFTISTS??? Raise your heads! I want to hear your views as well as the others'!

Naomi comments on Apr 8, 2019:

Wow, there is so much prejudice against the left. So much for free speech.

Naomi replies on Apr 11, 2019:

Hi. Now you're whining - ha! I'm only joking! You know, you're right. Many don't seem to know how to debate. The proof is right here. I wasn't responding to many of the comments dropped here because most of them were just "reactions" to the original post which was deliberately provocative, I admit that. As soon as they assumed that I was left, they went into the combat mode. Some kept their cool and I'm grateful, only because they read the OP carefully - reading OPs and comments carefully is very important. English is not my first language, so, I often read comments multiple times until I get them right. I'm glad we agree that people lost or never learned the ability to debate, or even have a decent conversation. They seem too comfortable with their own views, and as soon as someone challenges them, they get upset and start throwing punches around. What they don't know often lies in opposite views. They don't know what they are missing. And that is what debate/discussion is all about, and in order to get a healthy debate going, we have to stay civil and constructive, wouldn't you agree? The last thing I would mention is that I find the commonly-accepted notion of the left meaning SJW and the right meaning alt-right is shocking. Some of the leading IDW crowd are left-leaning, like Jonathan Haidt, Dave Rubin, Jo Rogan and Bret Weinstein (Weinstein is even progressive!), but they aren't SJWs, are they? Do you think this is what identity politics does to us? It's dividing us. We're dividing ourselves by accepting the narrative of identity politics - left, right, black, white, male, female and do son. For that we're all guilty, wouldn't you say?

Tell me - Is it OK to talk about socialism and communisms like synonyms?

Raphio comments on Apr 10, 2019:

I would say that socialism and communism differ, principally, in who owns the means of production. Marx wrote the COMMUNIST manifesto and thinks that the proles should own production. Socialism seems to specialize in taxing capitalists to redistribute wealth and create huge gov't bureaucracies for ...

Naomi replies on Apr 10, 2019:

Hi. Thank you for your input. The problem I have with socialists and communists is that they both hate the rich including those who worked hard and became successful in their own right...

Tell me - Is it OK to talk about socialism and communisms like synonyms?

Adavad comments on Apr 8, 2019:

It seems that the hope of those who advocate socialist policies is that it would operate very differently from communism in the sense that the people would maintain their freedom and be taken care of. The challenge is that for a government to be strong enough to be effectively socialist, it has ...

Naomi replies on Apr 10, 2019:

I meant to tell you that you made a very good point in your original comment. Thank you.

WHERE ARE THE LEFTISTS??? Raise your heads! I want to hear your views as well as the others'!

CrashAbbott comments on Apr 10, 2019:

@naomi, I live in canada, and yes I DO associate "leftism" with SJW's..unfortunately they seem to be one in the same at least over here. I consider myself a "moderate", there are small pieces of the Left of Centre that I can accept, and small pieces of the Right of Centre that I can accept, but both...

Naomi replies on Apr 10, 2019:

Gasp! I'm not gonna pretend that I know much about your country, but you know, you are not the only one who told me about Canada this way. I know someone on this platform who is from Canada, and who, to be honest, sounds slightly unhinged; he talks about death and war referring to the Muslims in Canada. From your description, Canada sounds much worse than the UK or shall I say it's only a matter of time before the UK catches up with Canada. The town where I live is miles away from any big cities so there aren't many immigrants (not yet, shall I say). There are some immigrants, including myself, but they're naturalised and well integrated. Having said that, political correctness and identity politics are spreading rapidly through social media like cancer. Self-censorship is definitely here. When I post harmless stuff on Facebook, I get many likes straight away, but every time I post something political or slightly controversial, it's dead quiet. Identity politics definitely divides us all. It's easy to blame it for everything, but you know, we keep sleepwalking into it, and for that we're all guilty. And, if I'm honest, I have reservations about all left-leaning people being SJWs; that's what MSM want us to believe. I would imagine it's much harder for you to resist it because you've got Trudeau as your PM. Although our PM May is pretty useless but there are still conservative voices left... I think it is important to focus on decent views coming from left or right or even centre, although I don't like the concept, if those views come from decent people, and not to get influenced by ideologues, who I refer to SJWs and alt-right activists. Thanks for your insightful piece of information.

Islam has contributed to some of the world's greatest achievements and learning.

RobBlair comments on Apr 10, 2019:

Here are the top names in each field of human accomplishment as determined and sourced by the powers that be in each one of those fields. Excludes recent history. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Human_Accomplishment In Murray's book I believe his list extends to 100 names for each field so I'm ...

Naomi replies on Apr 10, 2019:

I agree. Islam is a religion of politics. When Muhammad reached Medina, he became a warlord and his words became much political - Hadith, roughly speaking.

Islam has contributed to some of the world's greatest achievements and learning.

ROGAN comments on Apr 10, 2019:

Say WHAT now? math, science, medicine, geometry, poetry, philosophy, THESE things belong to the GREEKS mate! the only thing that Islam has produced is a political war machine hell bent on global dominance through a combination of fear and terror or by subversive political means or population ...

Naomi replies on Apr 10, 2019:

Interesting. Maybe America-centric.

Islam has contributed to some of the world's greatest achievements and learning.

monteray98 comments on Apr 10, 2019:

Since 9/11 34,000+ terrorist attacks in 67 countries worldwide. 99%+ committed by the religion of peace. Subjugation of women. Female genital mutilation. Stoning adulterous women to death. Throwing gay people off of buildings. Beheading all heretics. Killing all heretics who leave the religion,...

Naomi replies on Apr 10, 2019:

Wow, you're bag emotions! Calm down. That's not the premise of the discussion ,right? Let's get back to the original post.

A new word - TRANS-SLENDER!

Lickspittle comments on Apr 8, 2019:

I have no teeth, but I still eat meat. I'm transcendental!

Naomi replies on Apr 10, 2019:

Either way, it's funny.

Richard Spencer, what a disgusting piece of crap.

Guido_Provolone comments on Apr 3, 2019:

"Tons of White ppl and Jews" Lol

Naomi replies on Apr 10, 2019:

Cheerio!

WHERE ARE THE LEFTISTS??? Raise your heads! I want to hear your views as well as the others'!

iThink comments on Apr 8, 2019:

Yes please! Leftists, self described "liberals", anti-fascists, Black Lives Matter members, self described democratic-socialists! Please do raise your heads. Speak up speak often. Honestly no one will ban you from the site - no one will threaten you, or try to dox you, or try to ruin your career - ...

Naomi replies on Apr 10, 2019:

And if you're suggesting that that is the tendency shared among people in America, I have no comment, i.e., I don't live in America. So, I thank you for the insightful piece of information.

Richard Spencer, what a disgusting piece of crap.

Guido_Provolone comments on Apr 3, 2019:

"Tons of White ppl and Jews" Lol

Naomi replies on Apr 10, 2019:

It's amazing that people in America talk about the stuff so openly. I'll get arrested straight away in England. Lol It's mind-blowing!

Britain's Version Of 'Medicare For All' Is Struggling With Long Waits For Care

Leelumorticia comments on Apr 8, 2019:

The reason the NHS is stretched is because of all the migrants and refugees, bringing their own brand of diseases. Tourists come into the uk then wham they need a new heart, kidney and deliver multiply births......they don't pay yet I have to have medical insurance if I want to travel. The ...

Naomi replies on Apr 9, 2019:

It is basically about rapid, massive influxes of people no matter where they come from and no matter where they go. No country can be expected to cope with this. I-\n simple terms, it's like you suddenly find 10 people on your doorstep and you're expected to look after them all. That's just impossible. Take care.

Britain's Version Of 'Medicare For All' Is Struggling With Long Waits For Care

GrouchoMark comments on Apr 8, 2019:

I'm from the UK, I was diagnosed with early onset prostate cancer last year and the treatment I have recieved has been fisrt class. I got an MRI within a day, a bone scan within a week and regular check ups biopsies etc on a rolling programme. Having said that our once flagship system is cracked and...

Naomi replies on Apr 9, 2019:

All the best. Take care.

Britain's Version Of 'Medicare For All' Is Struggling With Long Waits For Care

Leelumorticia comments on Apr 8, 2019:

The reason the NHS is stretched is because of all the migrants and refugees, bringing their own brand of diseases. Tourists come into the uk then wham they need a new heart, kidney and deliver multiply births......they don't pay yet I have to have medical insurance if I want to travel. The ...

Naomi replies on Apr 9, 2019:

The open border policy is the problem. I sincerely hope Brexit is gonna happen (funny coming from an immigrant like me- ha, ha!)

WHERE ARE THE LEFTISTS??? Raise your heads! I want to hear your views as well as the others'!

Organicplum comments on Apr 8, 2019:

Perhaps they don't think your label refers to them Life is not just black and white, but a sliding scale Variations of thought brought about by different peer groups and education or parents

Naomi replies on Apr 9, 2019:

Your experience is certainly different from mine here. I rest my case.

Britain's Version Of 'Medicare For All' Is Struggling With Long Waits For Care

Leelumorticia comments on Apr 8, 2019:

The reason the NHS is stretched is because of all the migrants and refugees, bringing their own brand of diseases. Tourists come into the uk then wham they need a new heart, kidney and deliver multiply births......they don't pay yet I have to have medical insurance if I want to travel. The ...

Naomi replies on Apr 9, 2019:

Wait! I'm an immigrant living in the UK. I work hard and pay tax. I've never asked for or received any benefit. Am I counted in, please?

WHERE ARE THE LEFTISTS??? Raise your heads! I want to hear your views as well as the others'!

iThink comments on Apr 8, 2019:

Yes please! Leftists, self described "liberals", anti-fascists, Black Lives Matter members, self described democratic-socialists! Please do raise your heads. Speak up speak often. Honestly no one will ban you from the site - no one will threaten you, or try to dox you, or try to ruin your career - ...

Naomi replies on Apr 9, 2019:

Terms like "conservative" and "liberal" are interpreted differently in different political contexts. The Liberal Democratic Party in the UK, for example, is not a "leftist" party, at all.

WHERE ARE THE LEFTISTS??? Raise your heads! I want to hear your views as well as the others'!

Naomi comments on Apr 8, 2019:

Wow, there is so much prejudice against the left. So much for free speech.

Naomi replies on Apr 9, 2019:

Hi, you know what, I was wondering about that, too. That's a good point. What does free speech really mean? Do you notice that people come on, say whatever they want to say and move on? I don't think they really want to engage in proper conversations. If anyone challenges, they throw in a couple of punches, so to speak, and move on. Mind you, it is normally like this on any platform. I think conversing face to face with a cup of tea is still the best way.

WHERE ARE THE LEFTISTS??? Raise your heads! I want to hear your views as well as the others'!

AZWoman comments on Apr 8, 2019:

Not a leftist, but views on what subject(s)?

Naomi replies on Apr 9, 2019:

Sorry, I've just had a power cut! So, I was going on to say that Jeremy Corbyn, the current leader of the opposition party (The Labour party) and his cabinet ministers are said to be more than left-leaning. They are socialists, and they occasionally show signs that they support Marxism. Once, one of his ministers said that Mao did more good than harm, which was gobsmacking. There is a call for a general election, and I don't feel comfortable with the thought of Jeremy Corbyn being Prime Minister. What is your definition of the left?

WHERE ARE THE LEFTISTS??? Raise your heads! I want to hear your views as well as the others'!

AZWoman comments on Apr 8, 2019:

Not a leftist, but views on what subject(s)?

Naomi replies on Apr 9, 2019:

Hi. I realise that some terms are used differently in different countries, like "liberal". In the UK, some people are left-leaning centrists. They support socialistic ideas, like national healthcare, free education, lifetime pensions, that sort of things.

WHERE ARE THE LEFTISTS??? Raise your heads! I want to hear your views as well as the others'!

iThink comments on Apr 8, 2019:

Yes please! Leftists, self described "liberals", anti-fascists, Black Lives Matter members, self described democratic-socialists! Please do raise your heads. Speak up speak often. Honestly no one will ban you from the site - no one will threaten you, or try to dox you, or try to ruin your career - ...

Naomi replies on Apr 9, 2019:

And would you say that is the definition shared by people in the US?

WHERE ARE THE LEFTISTS??? Raise your heads! I want to hear your views as well as the others'!

iThink comments on Apr 8, 2019:

Yes please! Leftists, self described "liberals", anti-fascists, Black Lives Matter members, self described democratic-socialists! Please do raise your heads. Speak up speak often. Honestly no one will ban you from the site - no one will threaten you, or try to dox you, or try to ruin your career - ...

Naomi replies on Apr 9, 2019:

What is your definition of "leftist"? Leftist equals SJW? Is that the general view held by people in America?

Tell me - Is it OK to talk about socialism and communisms like synonyms?

Adavad comments on Apr 8, 2019:

It seems that the hope of those who advocate socialist policies is that it would operate very differently from communism in the sense that the people would maintain their freedom and be taken care of. The challenge is that for a government to be strong enough to be effectively socialist, it has ...

Naomi replies on Apr 9, 2019:

Thank you! Sounds like we're living in a parallel world. I live in the UK, and I can't complain about the national healthcare system. The NHS is in financial trouble, and we have long waiting lists, but the medical staff are holding their standard high and most services are free for everyone at the point of delivery. As for education, very similar to Canada, it is under much influence of political correctness and identity politics, which I think shouldn't be. Like Canada, some of the British systems are socialistic, and to be frank, they work well where there isn't much multiculturalism is involved - funny it's coming from an immigrant like myself. LOL. Again, thanks for your contribution - I feel I learnt a lot. Take care.

WHERE ARE THE LEFTISTS??? Raise your heads! I want to hear your views as well as the others'!

AZWoman comments on Apr 8, 2019:

Not a leftist, but views on what subject(s)?

Naomi replies on Apr 9, 2019:

Yes, anything! How can we see and think things properly and have balanced constructive views without exploring different views from all sides?

WHERE ARE THE LEFTISTS??? Raise your heads! I want to hear your views as well as the others'!

Naomi comments on Apr 8, 2019:

Wow, there is so much prejudice against the left. So much for free speech.

Naomi replies on Apr 9, 2019:

It's interesting that you assume straight away that I'm a leftist.

WHERE ARE THE LEFTISTS??? Raise your heads! I want to hear your views as well as the others'!

Organicplum comments on Apr 8, 2019:

Perhaps they don't think your label refers to them Life is not just black and white, but a sliding scale Variations of thought brought about by different peer groups and education or parents

Naomi replies on Apr 9, 2019:

I completely agree. Deliberate provocation on my part. I don't take sides. I'm under the impression that "left-leaning" views are suppressed because there seem to be so many here who make a mockery of left-wingers, and if those who have left-leaning views "have to pretend that they're centrists", as someone suggested, that's self-censorship and that's wrong. If this platform is becoming a safe space for particular types of people and not for the others, that's wrong, too. It's also wrong to generate the notion that lefties made us take refuge here - that's victimhood and that's supposed to be an SJWs' speciality. There is a certain level of hypocrisy surfacing here.

WHERE ARE THE LEFTISTS??? Raise your heads! I want to hear your views as well as the others'!

AZWoman comments on Apr 8, 2019:

Not a leftist, but views on what subject(s)?

Naomi replies on Apr 8, 2019:

Oh, anything. When I browse, I'm under the impression that there aren't many views clearly coming from leftists, well apart from one person who told me that he/she is a proud leftist. Whatever the topic is, I would like to look at it from different angles and would like to hear various views from different people.

Tell me - Is it OK to talk about socialism and communisms like synonyms?

Adavad comments on Apr 8, 2019:

It seems that the hope of those who advocate socialist policies is that it would operate very differently from communism in the sense that the people would maintain their freedom and be taken care of. The challenge is that for a government to be strong enough to be effectively socialist, it has ...

Naomi replies on Apr 8, 2019:

Hi, Thanks for your input. I realise you're in Canada, and I think Canada is unique in its own right. You have fine socialistic systems that provide people with good education, health care, housing, etc., no? Also, systems can vary from province to province, something like that... I'm showing my ignorance here. lol Would you tell me more, if you have time?

Tell me - Is it OK to talk about socialism and communisms like synonyms?

glenn_l comments on Apr 8, 2019:

There is a creature called Socialism. Communism was the first of its Socialistic kind and it was alive and well by the time of the French Revolution, though they did not realize what it was called. Fascism was created as the third way. Capitalism existed Communism developed, and Mussolini who ...

Naomi replies on Apr 8, 2019:

Hi, Thank you awfully for your time explaining all this.

"The British state has no place defending the sanctity of Islam.

Bay0Wulf comments on Apr 7, 2019:

If those “Muslims” actually read or have read the ENTIRE Qu’ran ... and Agree with what it teaches ... they ARE NOT “Lovely”. The Qu’ran consists of basically 3 books. If you read ONLY part #1 then you might reasonably think that Islam is “good and peaceful” ... Of course, ...

Naomi replies on Apr 8, 2019:

That's why the Qur'an, and the Bible, and many ancient literatures for that matter, are interesting to study, I think. Like the Bible, the Qur'an is translated into different languages by different translators, so interpretations vary, naturally. You could post this topic for a new discussion. There may be experts on this subject among the members here. You sound very knowledgeable about the Bible yourself. Good talking to you. Take care.

"The British state has no place defending the sanctity of Islam.

Bay0Wulf comments on Apr 7, 2019:

If those “Muslims” actually read or have read the ENTIRE Qu’ran ... and Agree with what it teaches ... they ARE NOT “Lovely”. The Qu’ran consists of basically 3 books. If you read ONLY part #1 then you might reasonably think that Islam is “good and peaceful” ... Of course, ...

Naomi replies on Apr 8, 2019:

Likewise the Bible.

"The British state has no place defending the sanctity of Islam.

purdyday comments on Apr 7, 2019:

It is sad for Britain and its culture. Who in the free world would have ever thought that crazy political elites, would throw together opposing cultures and simply say, now all get along,! Don't say anything,or there will be legal consequences. Sargon is right. If free societies do not push back, ...

Naomi replies on Apr 8, 2019:

I blame the open border policy. Mass immigration is very problematic. Many Muslims are peaceful as individuals. There are many British Muslims who happened to be born in Muslim families and have never read the Qur'an, so they're fine. LOL There are also peaceful Muslims living by the Qur'an, and they actually appreciate Western/British values. So, they are in a dilemma between Muslim values and Western values. There are also gay Muslims.

"The British state has no place defending the sanctity of Islam.

Bay0Wulf comments on Apr 7, 2019:

If those “Muslims” actually read or have read the ENTIRE Qu’ran ... and Agree with what it teaches ... they ARE NOT “Lovely”. The Qu’ran consists of basically 3 books. If you read ONLY part #1 then you might reasonably think that Islam is “good and peaceful” ... Of course, ...

Naomi replies on Apr 8, 2019:

Hadith is the most problematic one, and there are people who are trying to remove it as part of Islam reform. I hope they will succeed. They're constantly under death threats. Like any religious fundamentalists, those Muslims who believe the words of Muhammad literally are dangerous ones (Islamists or Medina Muslims).

Tell me - Is it OK to talk about socialism and communisms like synonyms?

Devildoll1778 comments on Apr 7, 2019:

Have you ever read the Communist Manifesto? Most people, in western societies especially, have no understanding of the differences between socialism and communism. Here is a VERY simplistic explanation in the difference between the two. Socialism allows you the delusion you actually have a say. ...

Naomi replies on Apr 8, 2019:

Yes, I have read the Communist Manifesto.

Richard Spencer, what a disgusting piece of crap.

Naomi comments on Apr 4, 2019:

He says many controversial ,provocative things but never seems to incite violence (not publicly anyway). I see him as a byproduct of political struggles in the thick of identity politics.

Naomi replies on Apr 8, 2019:

Me, too. I think that people like RS have always been around, and yes, they are probably not very nice people, but the current political climate doesn't help - blaming white men for everything, etc. only fuels people like him and their movements, I think. How did we come to this? We're so divided and are constantly blaming each other. We're all guilty, I think.

I have a question for our liberal members.

Naomi comments on Apr 6, 2019:

There is a bit of an echo chamber and confirmation bias - perhaps?

Naomi replies on Apr 7, 2019:

No all that sure. Ah well...

I have a question for our liberal members.

Naomi comments on Apr 6, 2019:

There is a bit of an echo chamber and confirmation bias - perhaps?

Naomi replies on Apr 7, 2019:

Well, I was thinking more like it's a human nature; common ideas, beliefs, etc. bind people into groups... In fact, many members here belong to groups and that's natural, isn't it? When you are a group member, of course you feel pressure, positive or negative, and yes, that's something we need to be mindful about. Meanwhile, I have a choice as to whether I want to participate in a discussion or not and how I want to present my opinions. Mild, strong, polite, aggressive, confident, subjective, objective... While we basically don't know anything about each other, our inputs often reflect our personalities - interesting. So, it may not be anything to do with being afraid to say what they want to say - I don't know. Also, thoughts are fluid, so we allow ourselves to change our views. They're all fine by me (although I tend to disregard rude ones - that's nothing to do with free speech; to me it's sheer rudeness).

Retarded - no, no, I'm not talking about people; I'm talking about socio-economy :D Engineers, ...

dezminator comments on Apr 4, 2019:

People go where they can improve their lives. It is not related to the country or politics. Most migrants send money back to their home country, you can check the stats but for example Africa receives more money from the diaspora than from foreign aid. Why isn't Africa doing better? Corruption and ...

Naomi replies on Apr 6, 2019:

Ah, that's interesting as well as disheartening. When I was much younger, my father used to say "Our country can afford to give lots of money to poor countries, but one has to ask what those poor countries are doing for themselves by themselves.", and his words stuck in my head. While the receivers are guilty for not appropriately utilising the money given to them , I think that the givers are just as guilty as the receivers for feeling good about themselves by giving away money and not helping address the fundamental problems. It's like I give money to an alcoholic homeless person, because I feel good about myself by doing it, only to let him/her buy more alcohol and not helping him/her come off alcohol. Like I said, we can't help the world as individuals, nor can we come up with any solution, but this is definitely something we should think about. Thanks ever so much for your contribution. I feel I've learnt a lot. All the best.

Wow! The idea of equality denied! Compelling when it comes from an immigrant like him.

JB313 comments on Apr 6, 2019:

I personally do not understand why there is so much effort put into something so unattainable. Equality does not exist, not in nature, not in reality. Diversity is natural and the way things are. Eqality cannot exist in a diverse reality.

Naomi replies on Apr 6, 2019:

Man, that's deep.

Wow! The idea of equality denied! Compelling when it comes from an immigrant like him.

Marta-Amance comments on Apr 6, 2019:

Fifteen minutes the moral of the story is: Kid: "Do as I say and not as I do." D'Souza: "You're a hypocrite!"

Naomi replies on Apr 6, 2019:

Well, that's sorted! lol

Wow! The idea of equality denied! Compelling when it comes from an immigrant like him.

Scanderbeg comments on Apr 6, 2019:

Dinesh know US history better then most thats why he knocks their arguments very quick.

Naomi replies on Apr 6, 2019:

You could say that again.

Wow! The idea of equality denied! Compelling when it comes from an immigrant like him.

jondspen comments on Apr 6, 2019:

When it takes you nearly 2 minutes to ask a question, that is a good indicator you are a SJW. D'Souza really hit the nail on the head though - the left is always for taking from others and giving to the poor, just as long as they get to define (and exclude themselves) from the 'others'.

Naomi replies on Apr 6, 2019:

"What about...?" (changing the subject completely) is also one of the tactics they use. lol

Retarded - no, no, I'm not talking about people; I'm talking about socio-economy :D Engineers, ...

dezminator comments on Apr 4, 2019:

People go where they can improve their lives. It is not related to the country or politics. Most migrants send money back to their home country, you can check the stats but for example Africa receives more money from the diaspora than from foreign aid. Why isn't Africa doing better? Corruption and ...

Naomi replies on Apr 6, 2019:

Thank you for your insightful contribution. I thought I sensed something personal in your first comment. I wouldn't go down the path of IQs. I think there is a flaw to a debate on a general premise like the black have the lowest IQ and the Asian have the highest IQ. I used to know a Japanese lady who wanted to live in England permanently, and when she failed to fulfil the legal requirements, she asked her rich father to fix all the documents she needed. I eventually lost touch with her and I wasn't sorry. So, while many institutions are corrupt, there are also people who are prepared to break laws in order to get what they want. Meanwhile, I think there are people who care about the homelands they belong to, wherever they may be, like the physician BrunosDad talks of. I also met an Indian doctor who works in England and he spends some of his own earnings to make prosthetic limbs for those back in India. When I was a student, I met some African students on campus. Some were mature students and were already qualified engineers and architects. I think they were in England on some kind of exchange scheme, so they were taking home with them whatever they learnt in England so that they could utilise it to further develop their countries. There are many stories like these, I'm sure, but I feel it a little wrong that these good people are doing admirable things out of their own pockets... I wholeheartedly support individual liberty. Of course, who wouldn't like to have a better life? Why not emigrate to another country if that's where opportunities lie for you to do better? But, I dare say those who can actually do that are lucky ones. Other less fortunate ones are still there stuck in the status quo. Everyone knows that we can't save the world (well, apart from SJWs, perhaps), but we all want our friends and families to do well, right? We need good education, good vocational programs. good healthcare, good welfare, good housing, good transport systems... good everything. And we need well-educated, skilled people to realise these things for us, right? You talk about foreign aid. Do you know how it is normally utilised on the receiving end in Africa? Is it likely just absorbed by the corrupt governments and not spent for those who really need it?

How might this divide the left?

Wreath comments on Apr 5, 2019:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=inHV2va3S3E&t=0s Feast your eyes on this!

Naomi replies on Apr 6, 2019:

I agree. What is conveniently left out is options, like homeschooling which you mention. Plus, there hasn't been much coverage on how LGBT lessons are actually going to be delivered to children at different ages, etc. (the headmaster showing what kind of books are used in the video is a good start). This is all about power struggles to me.

The most populous cities in the world (1500 - 2018) - Ineresting. [youtube.com]

EdNason comments on Apr 5, 2019:

very cool

Naomi replies on Apr 5, 2019:

Glad you like it. :)

The most populous cities in the world (1500 - 2018) - Ineresting. [youtube.com]

Guido_Provolone comments on Apr 5, 2019:

Flight of the Bumblebees would have come off gooder. Great post!

Naomi replies on Apr 5, 2019:

Glad you enjoyed it. Take care. x

Victimhood Culture Explained by Jonathan Haidt. Highly recommended! [youtube.com]

Kasey comments on Apr 5, 2019:

loved this. thank for introduction to mr haidt!!!!!

Naomi replies on Apr 5, 2019:

Glad you enjoyed it. Best wishes x

Richard Spencer, what a disgusting piece of crap.

Naomi comments on Apr 4, 2019:

He says many controversial ,provocative things but never seems to incite violence (not publicly anyway). I see him as a byproduct of political struggles in the thick of identity politics.

Naomi replies on Apr 5, 2019:

Don't apologise - you're entitled to your opinion. :) Yes, their stances are different as you rightly point out, but I still see them as the secondary problem, i.e., a reaction to the current political climate which is driven by identity politics. Douglas Murray can probably explain better than I. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4UoJareHfIw&t=217s

Victimhood Culture Explained by Jonathan Haidt. Highly recommended! [youtube.com]

Demere comments on Apr 5, 2019:

Love this guy. Also take a look at S. Pinker

Naomi replies on Apr 5, 2019:

Pinker - oh yes!

How might this divide the left?

Wreath comments on Apr 5, 2019:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=inHV2va3S3E&t=0s Feast your eyes on this!

Naomi replies on Apr 5, 2019:

He spoke to only one protester.

Retarded - no, no, I'm not talking about people; I'm talking about socio-economy :D Engineers, ...

dezminator comments on Apr 4, 2019:

People go where they can improve their lives. It is not related to the country or politics. Most migrants send money back to their home country, you can check the stats but for example Africa receives more money from the diaspora than from foreign aid. Why isn't Africa doing better? Corruption and ...

Naomi replies on Apr 5, 2019:

Hi. Thanks for your input. I think everybody agrees that all governments are corrupt more or less. When you say "Most migrants send money back to their home country... for example Africa receives more money from the diaspora than from foreign aid.", does it mean that the diaspora are giving their money to their governments and not to their families?

Retarded - no, no, I'm not talking about people; I'm talking about socio-economy :D Engineers, ...

RubyWright comments on Apr 4, 2019:

I for one would like to see our own kids get preferred enrollment 100% of the time and then if there are left over seats then bring in the foreign students. We get Locum (Traveling) doctor's here in Northern Ontario regularly. Most are foreign and only here for a few years in Canada. And I have such...

Naomi replies on Apr 5, 2019:

So, how is the merit-based immigration system supposed to work, especially when it used to work well? Is it like those who wish to immigrate to Canada have to apply while they're still abroad? Or can they just turn up with the intention of finding jobs and apply?

Retarded - no, no, I'm not talking about people; I'm talking about socio-economy :D Engineers, ...

Craigmuddle comments on Apr 4, 2019:

Most send money back home to help there families. I work with a few that send money home. There family is now considered to be rich now, they save money here by living together.

Naomi replies on Apr 5, 2019:

Hello. I believe that you have a merit-based immigration system. How does that work for overseas skilled workers who wish to work in Australia? Does that mean they have to find jobs in Australia while they're still outside, and then apply for permanent residency?

This is How They Will Erase You... [youtube.com]

Puffykins comments on Apr 4, 2019:

And today he was banned by Snapchat.

Naomi replies on Apr 5, 2019:

I know - this is madness!

Sometimes I just need to think and write shit down.

DrN1 comments on Apr 4, 2019:

But why? https://youtu.be/D10CSipHILs Equal rights and justice

Naomi replies on Apr 5, 2019:

I want to watch it but the message says unavailable. :(

Richard Spencer, what a disgusting piece of crap.

Naomi comments on Apr 4, 2019:

He says many controversial ,provocative things but never seems to incite violence (not publicly anyway). I see him as a byproduct of political struggles in the thick of identity politics.

Naomi replies on Apr 4, 2019:

Perhaps I could rephrase it to RS is the secondary problem being a white supremacist to the primary problem being created and overlooked by the establishment. He is in a way similar to Tommy Robinson apart from that TR isn't an ethno-nationalist.

Richard Spencer, what a disgusting piece of crap.

Guido_Provolone comments on Apr 3, 2019:

"Tons of White ppl and Jews" Lol

Naomi replies on Apr 4, 2019:

Stop it, @Guido_Provolone. You're smoking again! LOL!

Regressing to Jim Crow laws? A scary thought... [dailywire.com]

DAN_STL comments on Apr 4, 2019:

I find this sad, amusing, and full of schadenfreude. Hear all these New York City college students, looking for separation from those darker than them. I recognize that their thought process is to give blacks whatever they want. But I wonder if just a teeny weeny piece of their logic, is tribal. ...

Naomi replies on Apr 4, 2019:

Hi. I totally agree. When I was growing up, labelling people was wrong and was suppressed. Now what are we all doing to ourselves? We keep sleepwalking into the narrative of identity politics and dividing ourselves farther and farther apart. We have to wake up.

Retarded - no, no, I'm not talking about people; I'm talking about socio-economy :D Engineers, ...

RubyWright comments on Apr 4, 2019:

I for one would like to see our own kids get preferred enrollment 100% of the time and then if there are left over seats then bring in the foreign students. We get Locum (Traveling) doctor's here in Northern Ontario regularly. Most are foreign and only here for a few years in Canada. And I have such...

Naomi replies on Apr 4, 2019:

All because of bloody "Peter Pan" Trudeau. XD

Retarded - no, no, I'm not talking about people; I'm talking about socio-economy :D Engineers, ...

jneedler comments on Apr 4, 2019:

A 5 min video on immigration - some good and pertinent info here, well illustrated: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=LPjzfGChGlE

Naomi replies on Apr 4, 2019:

Hi. Thank goodness you understand my question! lol

Retarded - no, no, I'm not talking about people; I'm talking about socio-economy :D Engineers, ...

RubyWright comments on Apr 4, 2019:

I for one would like to see our own kids get preferred enrollment 100% of the time and then if there are left over seats then bring in the foreign students. We get Locum (Traveling) doctor's here in Northern Ontario regularly. Most are foreign and only here for a few years in Canada. And I have such...

Naomi replies on Apr 4, 2019:

Hi. thanks for your input. I realise that Canada has a merit-based immigration system. How do you think it's working?

Retarded - no, no, I'm not talking about people; I'm talking about socio-economy :D Engineers, ...

chuckpo comments on Apr 3, 2019:

It's a good point. I guess the first question it raises is how deep is the talent? If the talent isn't deep, losing the best at the top will be really harmful. If the talent is fairly deep, it's not a problem. This is such a great topic--one we in the US don't talk about. On the other side, let's ...

Naomi replies on Apr 4, 2019:

Hi. I found this article about merit-based immigration systems, not a specific example as such, but still. Incidentally, the UK doesn't have one nor does the US? https://www.bloomberg.com/opinion/articles/2018-10-31/low-skill-immigrants-do-better-than-the-more-highly-educated

Retarded - no, no, I'm not talking about people; I'm talking about socio-economy :D Engineers, ...

Kelley2 comments on Apr 4, 2019:

If the above mentioned people come to this country legally, then of course it is OK. We are a free nation. If we are going to allow any legal immigration at all, it would be ludicrous to allow only poor, undereducated people into the country and prevent people with skills from coming in. Absurd ...

Naomi replies on Apr 4, 2019:

Absurd? I rest my case. LOL

Retarded - no, no, I'm not talking about people; I'm talking about socio-economy :D Engineers, ...

Naomi comments on Apr 4, 2019:

I realise that many members here are in the US (doesn't mean I'm excluding views of those from other countries). It's a huge country consisting of many huge states. So, how about transferring talent from one state to another? Say, many young doctors decide to leave their home state, say Texas, to ...

Naomi replies on Apr 4, 2019:

Ah, I knew it wasn't a good example - ignorance on my part. If you could get back to the premise of the discussion, I would be grateful.

Are Left-Wingers Welcome Here?

Twinsport comments on Mar 30, 2019:

If left wingers are in here, I look at it as a chance to educate them, or if you will deprogram them.

Naomi replies on Apr 4, 2019:

Jeez, ha, ha! You're referring to those slightly unhinged left-wingers, right? I've come across some slightly unhinged right-wingers as well. That makes two lots to deprogramme. lol

Are Left-Wingers Welcome Here?

Incajackson comments on Mar 30, 2019:

I think the mistake is labeling people as left or right. It's a version of identity politics which just assumes individuals conform to the stereotype. I am interested in discussing individual issues with everybody. People are multi-faceted and never fit 100% into a particular mould. For the same...

Naomi replies on Apr 4, 2019:

Well said!

Are Left-Wingers Welcome Here?

Segovia comments on Mar 31, 2019:

I don't mind debating liberals-- even the left wing liberals, but most of the ones I think you are referring to---- are not into debate---they are into screaming invictives and shouting you down or calling you "racist"----- btw; there's no such animal as a SWJ, any time the word "justice" has a ...

Naomi replies on Apr 4, 2019:

I agree. There're also right-wing activists who are just as bad. I wish we could somehow wake them up on both sides.

Retarded - no, no, I'm not talking about people; I'm talking about socio-economy :D Engineers, ...

chuckpo comments on Apr 3, 2019:

It's a good point. I guess the first question it raises is how deep is the talent? If the talent isn't deep, losing the best at the top will be really harmful. If the talent is fairly deep, it's not a problem. This is such a great topic--one we in the US don't talk about. On the other side, let's ...

Naomi replies on Apr 4, 2019:

Thank you for thinking so hard. I'll gladly wait for more thoughts from you.

I wanted to talk about transgender people for a moment.

Dagdthompson comments on Apr 2, 2019:

Others have spoken about the problems sports is having with transgenders. Here is another problem everyone should have. Recently, there was a man in Britain who was convicted of raping three women. He, then said he identified as a woman and was sentenced to prison in a women’s prison, where he ...

Naomi replies on Apr 3, 2019:

There're fake ones around, that's for sure.

I wanted to talk about transgender people for a moment.

DesertMinx comments on Apr 2, 2019:

It is my opinion that NONE of us should rely on government to "give" us our "rights." This only suffices to make a political commodity out of them. It should suffice that laws against harassment, assault, murder etc., apply to all across the board--carving out special groups for extra treatment ...

Naomi replies on Apr 3, 2019:

The UK government is introducing an LGBT education program in schools in September and this is intended for children as young as 4! Can you hear my scream from over there?!

I wanted to talk about transgender people for a moment.

Naomi comments on Apr 2, 2019:

Hi. There's a good conversation going on here - I like that. :) I get a little puzzled when they talk about trans rights. We already have the human rights and the entitlement to the equal protection by the law. So, I don't know what else trans people are demanding. I have a trans lady neighbour; ...

Naomi replies on Apr 3, 2019:

Thank you for sharing my point. Of course, there are "fake" ones around and that's for sure, but other than that, they really need help. It is said that gay people were born gay, in other words, there is no cure. I know some one who suffers depression and someone who is schizophrenic. (Only God knows why I tend to encounter such people. lol) They're on medication and see specialists regularly. On the surface, you wouldn't notice anything wrong with them straight away, but they're constantly struggling inside. It's definitely not a good idea to tell them to man up or get a life - hell no. At the same time, I think it's also wrong to treat them as some special privileged kind of people, and certainly, they shouldn't see themselves that way either. You don't patronise them, you don't pity them, you don't tiptoe around them, and most of all, you don't label them... Having that kind of attitude seems to help me interact with them well.

I WANT TO CHANGE THE IDENTITY POLITICS NARRATIVE!!!! We all know that identity politics sucks, yet ...

Naomi comments on Apr 1, 2019:

A few days ago, I was reading a news article about the New Zealand attacks on FB. The article was clearly generating a Muslims vs Christian type of notion - typical. I got a little mischievous :p, and dropped a comment "My heart goes out for the families of the victims who lost their lives amidst ...

Naomi replies on Apr 3, 2019:

Thank goodness, you can see my point! lol The shooter Tarrant wanted us to play this mind game (the media didn't help, of course). He wanted to generate anger and hate and we all fell for it, and how easy that was! It is this mindset that makes us so conscious of identities all the time instead of treating each other as individuals. I so wish I could think of an antidote to break this mindset. We really have to wake up.

Some of you have been talking about how to argue with the far left, and how to deal with emotions ...

Naomi comments on Apr 2, 2019:

Hi. I would be very interested in reading the book - thank you! A few days ago, I was reading a news article about the New Zealand attacks on FB. The article was clearly generating a Muslims vs Christian type of notion - typical. I got a little mischievous, and dropped a comment "My heart goes ...

Naomi replies on Apr 3, 2019:

Thank goodness, you see my point! LOL Sounds like you've read Jonathan Haidt' s books. I call him "my lovely Jonathan". LOL

I wanted to talk about transgender people for a moment.

Naomi comments on Apr 2, 2019:

Hi. There's a good conversation going on here - I like that. :) I get a little puzzled when they talk about trans rights. We already have the human rights and the entitlement to the equal protection by the law. So, I don't know what else trans people are demanding. I have a trans lady neighbour; ...

Naomi replies on Apr 3, 2019:

I agree with you to an extent. I don't see anything wrong with accommodating trans people, though, provided that they recognise their condition, i.e., gender dysphoria. Plus, gender dysphoria isn't a synonym of madness - Alice, my neighbour isn't a mad person; apart from his slightly odd appearance and the soft voice he chooses to use, you can have a decent conversation with him. Alice is also blind - she has more than enough problems to cope with... (I'm mixing up gender pronouns here, but I'm sure Alice forgives me. :P) Also. I don't think gender dysphoria is something one can fix, same as many other mental disorders. I think it's important that people admit that they have problems, gender dysphoria, depression, bipolar, anorexia, etc. That makes a good start so that their families, friends and neighbours can accommodate such problems while, like you say, helping them to cope with the problems better. I think one can be nice and practical at the same time.

Some of you have been talking about how to argue with the far left, and how to deal with emotions ...

Naomi comments on Apr 2, 2019:

Hi. I would be very interested in reading the book - thank you! A few days ago, I was reading a news article about the New Zealand attacks on FB. The article was clearly generating a Muslims vs Christian type of notion - typical. I got a little mischievous, and dropped a comment "My heart goes ...

Naomi replies on Apr 2, 2019:

You're absolutely right. The point I was trying to make is that media create the notion of favouring minorities over majorities and vise versa and we keep falling for that mind game. Say, you sympathise with rape victims in the ethnic minority and there is always someone who says "how about white rape victims?", and you speak for white people and there is always someone who says "how about black people?" and so on. Identity politics, cultural Marxism, political correctness, call it what you like, but it is this mind set that makes us talk about people by their identities, and I think it's dividing us.

I wanted to talk about transgender people for a moment.

Naomi comments on Apr 2, 2019:

Hi. There's a good conversation going on here - I like that. :) I get a little puzzled when they talk about trans rights. We already have the human rights and the entitlement to the equal protection by the law. So, I don't know what else trans people are demanding. I have a trans lady neighbour; ...

Naomi replies on Apr 2, 2019:

That's a bit harsh, no?

Brexit Deadlock With all alternative options having been voted down in the House of Commons ...

pbuck0145 comments on Apr 2, 2019:

One of many relevant videos by Jeff Taylor. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x7-ildwqX0k=em-uploademail

Naomi replies on Apr 2, 2019:

I like him. He's been following Brexit ever so closely and he explains it very clearly.

Is there any good in Islam? (asking for a friend)

SpikeTalon comments on Apr 2, 2019:

There are good people who adhere to the religion, if that's what you're asking.

Naomi replies on Apr 2, 2019:

Definitely.

Right, Karl Marx haters (and supporters)! LOL I was intrigued by Marx's quote "Religion is the opium...

Naomi comments on Mar 29, 2019:

I realise (and somehow predicted) that for many, Karl Marx and Marxism are a little too much to take on - it's almost a taboo subject. I observe that while we're relaxed enough to talk about dictators like Hitler, Stalin, Mao, etc., when it comes to Marx, the notion that Marx is the father of ...

Naomi replies on Apr 1, 2019:

All the best with your study! (And hope you don't mind my following you...)

How to Air Marshall the British way, by Dance!!! This is an old clip but still makes me chuckle.

RubyWright comments on Apr 1, 2019:

That was a fun break. Thanks for sharing Naomi. :)

Naomi replies on Apr 1, 2019:

Glad you enjoyed it. Take care. X

I WANT TO CHANGE THE IDENTITY POLITICS NARRATIVE!!!! We all know that identity politics sucks, yet ...

An_Ominous comments on Apr 1, 2019:

As to your primary question, "what can we do to change it?" That's a toughie. The mass media has a bullying pulpit and a mega-phone that is like to drown out dissent. I suppose that the only thing that can oppose such stentorian pontificating is a multitude of quiet voices. Soft answers not to ...

Naomi replies on Apr 1, 2019:

I see where you're coming from. I mean more like changing the "mindset" which we do not wish to have yet which we are forced to have, if you know what I mean. There are millions of "just ordinary people", like the man in my story, who become trapped in the narrative of identity politics. Censorship is terrible in the UK for example. There have been incidents where some people criticized Islam and fake LGBTs, and they were subsequently visited by the police advising on talking about people in certain types of groups. When this kind of incidents continue to happen, people gradually begin to censor themselves. I think this is wrong. I wish there were a way we could avoid falling into such a scenario.

I WANT TO CHANGE THE IDENTITY POLITICS NARRATIVE!!!! We all know that identity politics sucks, yet ...

Naomi comments on Mar 31, 2019:

You know, when I posted this topic, I had a simple but realistic scenario in my head. It goes like this: Mr Just Ordinary Man lives a simple, humble life. He loves his family, he loves his home and he is very grateful for what he has. He hasn't got much education but he has good common sense ...

Naomi replies on Apr 1, 2019:

You're freaking me out, @JillianClayton! LOL

I am genuinely curious about this and would love to hear valid arguments for or against my thought.

Naomi comments on Mar 30, 2019:

Hi. This is a great post. I think that while individual liberty should be respected (obviously), because we're basically social animals, we cannot not belong to some kind of group, i.e., family, school, company, community, nation... that kind of thing. So, it is only natural that we identify ...

Naomi replies on Apr 1, 2019:

Oh, thank you, @EliCaesar. (The "like" button is not working - again!)

Right, Karl Marx haters (and supporters)! LOL I was intrigued by Marx's quote "Religion is the opium...

Bonita777 comments on Mar 31, 2019:

A great book I came across from someone's first hand personal experience with Communism ie not 'what someone has read about Communism.' 'Marx and Satan' by Richard Wurmbrand (March 24, 1909 – February 17, 2001)." Richard has also written 'Tortured for Christ.' I watched this man on google. What an...

Naomi replies on Apr 1, 2019:

The "like" button is not working - again! Yes, sounds like a great book. Not sure if I can read it, though; I easily cry. LOL Some people have such big hearts that they can forgive their enemies. Not sure if I can ever do that, not that I've ever had any trauma in my life. A debate like whether the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki was justifiable or not is never going to reach a conclusion. I would imaging that for many, it's still too personal to talk about it. That's where cool-headed guys like yourself come in. :) Emotions, especially hate, never help. There are a handful people who have been arranging meetings between British POWs and Japanese ex-soldiers, and there have been good outcomes. I like constructive actions like that. Thinkers, including He-to-whom-I'm-Married, are brilliant at recognising and analysing problems, and they even come up with good solutions - occasionally, but they tend to remain as theories. They are not so much doers. :P You know, the fact that many still support communist ideas is beyond me. I read this article the other day: "The South African Communist Party (SACP) was founded in 1921, funded by the Soviets. The Soviet backed South African Communist Party is a partner of the Tripartite Alliance with the ANC and the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) and through this it influences the South African Government." Also, in the UK, Jeremy Corbyn, the leader of the opposition party (the Labour Party) and his ministers show signs of favouring Marx's ideas. It was a long time ago but I was shocked when one of his ministers (Diane Abbott) said "Mao did more good than harm." Of course, she was criticised severely, but making such a statement in public is gobsmacking. The UK is in turmoil in terms of Brexit and there is a call for a general election. Jeremy Corbyn should never become the next prime minister! Thanks again for your inputs. Take care.

Happy Mother's Day! (in the UK) When is it in your country?

purdyday comments on Mar 31, 2019:

Happy Mothers Day Naomi and to all ! Its second day of May here. My mum used to tell her friends, that if she was lucky, she got 2 every year. Lucky, in that sometimes I fogot the first anniversary of the English one. I was pretty religious about calling her on Sundays though, so never forgot the...

Naomi replies on Apr 1, 2019:

Good point. They also have St Valentines' Day on Feb. 14, but they developed their own funny habit to celebrate the day. Take care.

Happy Mother's Day! (in the UK) When is it in your country?

JobyOneKenobi comments on Mar 31, 2019:

May 12th in the U.S.A.

Naomi replies on Mar 31, 2019:

Very kind, thank you!

I WANT TO CHANGE THE IDENTITY POLITICS NARRATIVE!!!! We all know that identity politics sucks, yet ...

EdNason comments on Mar 31, 2019:

call out it BS each and every time so that people that promote this BS know it is not generally accepted and they will be called out. Snowflakes do not like to be called out.

Naomi replies on Mar 31, 2019:

You know, maybe, that's not a bad idea. Calling someone a racist, Islamophobe, etc., has such an immediate effect of shutting down others, there need to be words that have a matching impact and effect to fight back (maybe it could be more sophisticated than BS). Once, Jesse Lee Peterson challenged a news reporter "Why are you interviewing me about racism. All you talk about is racism. You must be a racist. Are you? Are you a racist?", or something along those lines. The reporter had to shut up then. I wish I could think of some counterattack words or phrases when someone tries to play a racist or victim card. But then, if that does nothing but to infuriate them, that wouldn't be so good.

I WANT TO CHANGE THE IDENTITY POLITICS NARRATIVE!!!! We all know that identity politics sucks, yet ...

SpaceWillie2000 comments on Mar 31, 2019:

Take one day a week and try to see things from someone else's point of view. Don't act on those thoughts or ideas, because if they're wrong you'll wind up harming the process more than helping. What we can do is take a real look at what is being done. Real laws, look at bill numbers and ...

Naomi replies on Mar 31, 2019:

LOL!!!

I WANT TO CHANGE THE IDENTITY POLITICS NARRATIVE!!!! We all know that identity politics sucks, yet ...

MADcHATTER comments on Mar 31, 2019:

This is the question. It is a sad rejoinder that Identity Politics has buried itself like a tick into the skin of Diversity over the last generation. What started out as an idea that we needed to "Celebrate" our diversity...which is a splendid principle of moral pedagogy. But it quickly turned into ...

Naomi replies on Mar 31, 2019:

LOL!!!

Happy Mother's Day! (in the UK) When is it in your country?

JobyOneKenobi comments on Mar 31, 2019:

May 12th in the U.S.A.

Naomi replies on Mar 31, 2019:

Don't forget. lol

Happy Mother's Day! (in the UK) When is it in your country?

purdyday comments on Mar 31, 2019:

Happy Mothers Day Naomi and to all ! Its second day of May here. My mum used to tell her friends, that if she was lucky, she got 2 every year. Lucky, in that sometimes I fogot the first anniversary of the English one. I was pretty religious about calling her on Sundays though, so never forgot the...

Naomi replies on Mar 31, 2019:

Thanks for your message. (The "Like" button is not working!) You know what - the Japanese have Mother's Day on the second Sunday of May. They must've got the idea from America. lol

I WANT TO CHANGE THE IDENTITY POLITICS NARRATIVE!!!! We all know that identity politics sucks, yet ...

MADcHATTER comments on Mar 31, 2019:

This is the question. It is a sad rejoinder that Identity Politics has buried itself like a tick into the skin of Diversity over the last generation. What started out as an idea that we needed to "Celebrate" our diversity...which is a splendid principle of moral pedagogy. But it quickly turned into ...

Naomi replies on Mar 31, 2019:

Ha, ha! Nice one, @An_Ominous.