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Forum Post: Apathy is depressing. u-tube link

Posted 11 years ago on March 5, 2013, 4:44 p.m. EST by alterorabolish1 (569)
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124 Comments

124 Comments


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[-] 7 points by shadz66 (19985) 11 years ago

RIP : Hugo Chavez ~{:-( & Consider :

British MP for Bradford West, George Galloway tweets : "Farewell Comandante Hugo Chavez champion of the poor the oppressed everywhere. Modern day Spartacus. Rest in Peace."

Is apathy depressing ? Yep, IF Americans think that there are WMD's in Iraq - as per your video, then one wonders what it is that Americans are 'MSM Mind Managed' to think about Hugo Chavez.

WMD = 'Words of Mass Deception' ; Chavez = Compadre Con Cojones ! I'll miss him.

Viva Chavismo ! Solidaridad !! Siempre !!!

paz y luz ...

[-] 1 points by alterorabolish1 (569) 11 years ago

Is it true that Chavez nationalized the oil, irritating the oil industry? Stories have come out about the middle east oil countries, like the Shah of Iran, Saudi Arabia, etc. If the USA set up leaders in these countries to benefit oil companies, I can't blame the people of these countries for being upset! Maybe the USA wasn't benefitting directly, but cronies were getting rich.

I want to know more about the leader of Equador, he's saved Julian Assange so far.

[-] 1 points by shadz66 (19985) 11 years ago

Chavez nationalised Venezuela's oil, yep ! And why not ?!! As no human being created it, then it is surely a 'common treasury for all, right ?!!! However, such pure and simple truths are somehow considered 'radical', lol and also see :

Re. Julian Assange and Equador, I could append many links but will just restrict myself to this one :

During Assange's interview with President Correa for his series 'The World Tomorrow', the two men clearly struck up a bond. Was it during this interview that Assange first got the idea of claiming asylum from a sympathetic Ecuador ?

fiat lux ...

[-] 1 points by alterorabolish1 (569) 11 years ago

Thanks for the link to the Assange/Correa interview. Correa said, society should rule the markets, not the markets ruling society. Great interview.

[Removed]

[-] -2 points by beautifulworld (23769) 11 years ago

Chavez was a warrior for the poor. If only we had more leaders on this earth who cared about human beings more than profit.

[-] 2 points by shadz66 (19985) 11 years ago

"The Revolution Within the Revolution Will Continue", by Kevin Zeese and Dr. Margaret Flowers :

From which, I quote : "The struggle for democracy brought an understanding by the people that change only comes if they create it. The pre- Chávez era is seen as a pseudo Democracy, managed for the benefit of the oligarchs. The people viewed Chávez as a door that was opened for them to create transformational change. He was able to pass laws that aided them in their work for real democracy and better conditions. And Chávez knew that if the people did not stand with him, the oligarchs could remove him from power as they did for two days in 2002."

To further quote George Galloway, MP : "Under Chávez’ revolution the oil wealth was distributed in ever rising wages and above all in ambitious social engineering. He built the fifth largest student body in the world, creating scores of new universities. More than 90% of Venezuelans ate three meals a day for the first time in the country’s history. Quality social housing for the masses became the norm with the pledge that by the end of the presidential term, now cut short, all Venezuelans would live in a dignified house."

So, yes bw - Chavez was indeed "a warrior for the poor" and we must hope that his inspiration goes on to seed the next generation of Bolivarians - wherever they may be, to realise that only together are we stronger and - as this excellent article ends by saying :

  • "If the United States and the oligarchs think the death of Chávez means the end of the Bolivarian Revolution he led, they are in for a disappointment. This revolution, which is not limited to Venezuela, is likely to show to itself and the world that it is deep and strong. The people-powered transformation with which Chávez was in solidarity will continue."

dum spiro, spero ...

[-] 3 points by beautifulworld (23769) 11 years ago

"More than 90% of Venezuelans ate three meals a day for the first time in the country’s history."

That pretty much says it all. And, shame on people who malign others who do good in this world so that they can justify their own bad behavior. Shame on them.

[-] 2 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

He may have been worshiped - but to receive such adulation - consider - how nasty it was before he came along - that he inspired worship from the people.

[-] 1 points by beautifulworld (23769) 11 years ago

Even Mother Theresa is being maligned these days for helping the poor. There is a real backlash against the poor around the world. It's a way of self-preservation for those who have enough and who don't want to share the resources. It takes empathy and compassion to understand the plight of others and to even take on their cause when you really have no need to for yourself.

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

IT is a way of diverting attention from the greedy society ruining assholes and placing it falsely on the helpless/abused.

[-] 2 points by beautifulworld (23769) 11 years ago

Yep, the vilification and shaming of the poor is merely a way to place the blame for the inequity in this country on the very people who suffer from it and divert it away from those who are to blame, the greedy, blood sucking, entitled wealthy and corporations.

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

You express the TRUTH so WELL. See you soon - am out of here again - till tomorrow ( I hope ).

SO

KEEP-ON KEEPING-ON

[-] 2 points by beautifulworld (23769) 11 years ago

Have a good night. :) You too.

And, if only we could get the people to realize that they are NOT to blame for their economic situation, we might just be able to get them out in the street. That is what it's going to take to make change.

[-] 2 points by shadz66 (19985) 11 years ago

"Where is America’s Hugo Chavez? Who Will Stand Up Against the Military-Oil-Banker Mafia?" by Rob Urie : http://www.informationclearinghouse.info/article34225.htm also much food for later thought and re. "shame on people who malign others who do good in this world so that they can justify their own bad behaviour. Shame on them.", amen, ditto and solidarity @ All Venezuelans at this difficult time.

paz y luz ...

[-] 5 points by beautifulworld (23769) 11 years ago

Great article. An excerpt from it:

"What is in fact taking place is economic pillage with the full cooperation and facilitation of Mr. Obama and his administration. From banker bailouts to stolen homes, incarceration for profit, student loan penury, wars for oil, profit extracting sick-care and social insurance cuts, class war was launched and is being fought from above. And the non-conflictual economic theories of classical and neo-liberals have rendered cooperation the mechanism of self-subjugation. Against far greater odds Hugo Chavez fought back the forces of global capital, plutocracy and their servants in the oil mafia (CIA) to improve the lot of Venezuela’s poor. What he showed is the straightest path to achieving social justice is to fight for it."

[-] 6 points by windyacres (1197) 11 years ago

Great article and a great title; "Where is America's Hugo Chavez? The excerpt you provided inspired me to read it. Another excerpt from the article; "Of what benefit is GDP (Gross Domestic Product) ‘growth’ if what it accomplishes is to grow the political power of a ruling elite determined to use it to reduce the political power and economic circumstance of everyone else?"

~alterorabolish1~

[-] 2 points by beautifulworld (23769) 11 years ago

Very good excerpt and point.

[-] 2 points by shadz66 (19985) 11 years ago

"How many times did you read and listen in the past few days to pontificating pundits tell you that Hugo Chavez had “wrecked” the Venezuelan economy, without a whiff of self-consciousness about the state of our own (in the UK) and that of the United States? That Chavez’s Venezuela was a “divided” society; as if Bush, Obama, Cameron, and Osborne led governments of national unity?", from :

I append the above here as a highly relevant aside almost on this the 10th anniversary of The Illegal Imperial War On Iraq & re.Hugo Chavez, I end by finally appending here on this thread, the following :

fiat lux et fiat pax ...

[-] 0 points by DSamms (-294) 11 years ago

Hi alterorabolish1,

Read one of your posts about your business. My sincere condolences. Would you care to discuss your interesting (old) name? I'd like to run a few ideas by you...

[-] 1 points by windyacres (1197) 11 years ago

Sure, you've aroused my curiosity.

[-] -1 points by DSamms (-294) 11 years ago

Just as we run out of thread space, of course... Thus, I offer the following link, it may interest you. But please consider it a rough draft, a work in progress. I'm interested in your perspective and thoughts regarding the OP...

http://occupywallst.org/forum/keep-searching-for-ways-to-screw-the-corrupt-syste/

[-] -2 points by Micah (-58) 11 years ago

Why are you looking for a murdering, fascist dictator?

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

Yep - the people must understand that they ( we ) have been under concerted attack for decades - that we have been the victims of an undeclared war.

[-] -2 points by highlander3 (-62) 11 years ago

Nationalizing the economy, Robin Hood mentality. Not my idea of a good leader.

[-] 1 points by beautifulworld (23769) 11 years ago

You prefer 1 in 7 on food stamps. 22% of children in poverty. 1/2 of all citizens earning less than $26,000 per year. 49 million with no health insurance. Great. Just great.

[-] 1 points by MattLHolck (16833) from San Diego, CA 11 years ago

I'd prefer everyone have food stamps

[-] 1 points by beautifulworld (23769) 11 years ago

Like a basic guarantee income. Good idea. If everyone gets it, it eliminates resentment, yet it provides for all. Nice.

[-] 1 points by MattLHolck (16833) from San Diego, CA 11 years ago

stimulates the market too

[-] 0 points by MattLHolck (16833) from San Diego, CA 11 years ago

he was popular

[-] 1 points by jrhirsch (4714) from Sun City, CA 11 years ago

"Sitting on the fence like that will only give you a sore arse and possibly piles too ! This is OWS - we do what ever we do, for The 99% - wherever we are - so are you with us 'Mr. Journo' ?!! 'Trashy' apparently thinks I'm "desperate" lolol & indeed I am - for The 99% !!! "

So where does one sit when the facts lie equally on both sides of the fence? As for the 99%, I support them when they're in the right and condemn them when they're in the wrong.

[-] 2 points by shadz66 (19985) 11 years ago

You could do with meditating on the nature of "we" as you clearly are still far too preoccupied with the 'me, myself and I' !!! IF you think that "the facts lie (sic) equally (!o!) on both sides of the fence" - then you've clearly overdosed on 'objectivity' !! And you are possibly a bit lost brother ! More importantly :

Btw, you ought to take your 'objective facts' modalities to the 9/!! Commission Report, lol & weary sigh.

pax, amor et lux ...

[-] -2 points by jrhirsch (4714) from Sun City, CA 11 years ago

"overdosed on 'objectivity' "

Yeah, it's my favorite drug. It's the absence of the "me, myself and I" and especially the "we".

Objectivity - is a central philosophical concept, related to reality and truth, which has been variously defined by sources. Generally, objectivity means the state or quality of being true even outside of a subject's individual feelings, imaginings, or interpretations. A proposition is generally considered to be objectively true (to have objective truth) when its truth conditions are met and are "mind-independent"—that is, existing freely or independently from a mind (from the thoughts, feelings, ideas, etc. of a sentient subject). In a simpler meaning of the term, objectivity refers to the ability to judge fairly, without bias or external influence.

[-] 3 points by shadz66 (19985) 11 years ago

"Subjectivity is the only truth" (Jean Paul Sartre) ! It seems that you are able to sit on some strange self absorbed fulcrum between The 0.01% Parasite Class ; the enabling and co-opted 1% and ... The Global 99% !!! Whatever your "drug" is - you've clearly overdosed on it !! Just say no to sin-thetix - keep it to organix !!! Here ... try some of mine, ======## ''' '' ' & also consider :

gnothi seauton ...

[-] -2 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

Good comment - and - in compliment = People and cancer charity/groups lobby to have identified carcinogens removed from our foods and our water and our air and our land. Fossil Fuel, Artificial dye's and sweetener's, steroids and hormones fed to live stock etc etc etc. It is not enough to pour money into finding cures for cancer - IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT CAUSES BE REMOVED.

[-] 2 points by jrhirsch (4714) from Sun City, CA 11 years ago

"IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT CAUSES BE REMOVED"

I couldn't agree more. An ounce of prevention is worth a half million dollars in cure.

[-] -1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

Yep the removal of already identified toxic substances - will put us forward in a great leap to improving the health of all - while treatments for ills are still explored.

[-] -2 points by jrhirsch (4714) from Sun City, CA 11 years ago

"Subjectivity is the only truth" (Jean Paul Sartre)

The observer's narrow viewpoint decreases his ability to see truth completely. Subjective truth only exists in the mind of the observer, not outside it.

[-] -1 points by nandoatake (-18) 11 years ago

Shadz66 used Jean-Paul Sartre's comment out of context. It refers to semiotics and literature, it's not a generalized quote that applies to all spheres of human endeavor. Jean-Paul Sartre is definitely not the Solipsist shadz66 would have us believe.

[-] 1 points by jrhirsch (4714) from Sun City, CA 11 years ago

It appears the quote comes from Kierkegaard.

[-] -1 points by nandoatake (-18) 11 years ago

Good call. I was confused with the idea that truth cannot be known because everything is subjective, an old concept started by the solipsists in ancient Greece. Jean-Paul Sartre used this idea, but only in terms of analyzing literary text. He's sort of the grandfather of deconstructionism which Derrida and others pushed further in later years.

This quote from Kierkegaard means something entirely different. He doesn't mean that no truth can be acquired, but rather that there is only on truth and that it is subjectivity. However, we must contextualize the quote to understand it properly.

The quote appears in Concluding Unscientific Postscript, an essay which is part of Philosophical Fragments. The essay is a reply to the scientific community, most precisely René Descartes, who felt that truth could only be achieved through a rigorous scientific method. Kierkegaard was a theologian Christian and his idea was that truth could only be found in Christianity. In prior texts he often talked about the importance of the Leap of Faith, that is, to be a true Christian one must believe from faith and not require proof. Faith is always subjective because it isn't backed up with hard evidence. Kierkegaard believed truth could only be found with salvation, and, because faith is subjective, he states that "Subjectivity is the only truth" - as opposed to the idea that the scientific method is the only truth.

In any case, shadz66 quote didn't apply to the conversation. He was obviously referring to the idea of the solipsists I described above.

[-] 2 points by JesseHeffran (3903) 11 years ago

Do you believe it is possible for a person to be completely objective? or does perception at its basic level need subjectivity to come into existence?

I have a bachelor's in journalism, and i have a hard time believing in objectivity. The act of thinking, at least I believe, is a subjective act that is biased by past experiences.

[-] 2 points by ProblemSolver (79) 11 years ago

Fear of consequences prevents objective Journalism.

[-] 2 points by JesseHeffran (3903) 11 years ago

That may be true for some, but I believe most actually believe they are being objective. But their objectivity stems from their experiences so is biased by those experiences.

Although, I will say that I have heard of reporters getting fired for writing negative stories about companies who advertise with the station. So I could see this as having a chilling effect on reporters.

[-] 1 points by ProblemSolver (79) 11 years ago

On the other hand, I always felt journalists remain "to unattached" .. to "unobjective"

[-] 1 points by ProblemSolver (79) 11 years ago

I believe Chris Hedges ran into the same dilemma.

Most people will roll over .. the mainstream media attracts some of the worst characters in the universe.

[-] 1 points by shoozTroll (17632) 11 years ago

Chris doesn't agree with union busting either.

How do you feel about "solving" that problem?

Or are you just cherry picking for effect?

[-] 0 points by nandoatake (-18) 11 years ago

You should try discussing issues without always using rhetorical and loaded questions.

[-] 1 points by shoozTroll (17632) 11 years ago

I hate when quotes are cherry picked.

It's like when posters scream about how much they HATE Hollywood, but then post their favorite movie lines,.

How do you feel about union busting?

[-] 1 points by jrhirsch (4714) from Sun City, CA 11 years ago

Quite true. Occupy members who might disagree with a single mainstream view on this forum can get hammered. I know from experience. It doesn't phase me though, just makes me stronger and more determined.

[-] -1 points by nandoatake (-18) 11 years ago

This forum is censored, not moderated.

[-] 0 points by shoozTroll (17632) 11 years ago

Could that be why they don't talk about union busting??

I guess that's why you ignore it.

Fear of consequences.

[-] 1 points by jrhirsch (4714) from Sun City, CA 11 years ago

The only way to be completely objective is to see every pertinent fact from every point of view, from every point in time. Truth is literally four dimensional. It doesn't lie on the left or the right, up or down, close or far, or even at that point in time. It's position in space and time can't be moved by the observer, although many try.

Obviously human beings are incapable of perfect objectivity, but it shouldn't prevent our seeking to come as close as possible

[-] 1 points by ProblemSolver (79) 11 years ago

A machine is completely objective. A machine has no fear.

Nature has no fear.. a forest fire is completly objective.. a hurricane.. a tidal wave.. all these have no fear.. no emotion ..

There is a small percentage of the population that have no fear .. in fact they thrive on danger.. it excites them .. The top one percent may fit this category .. they are the biggest risk takers .. but they lack empathy.. as does a machine.

[-] 1 points by jrhirsch (4714) from Sun City, CA 11 years ago

Even a machine is not always objective. A telescope on earth can only see one side of the moon. But many telescopes from differing vantage points in space can see it's entire surface.

[-] 1 points by ProblemSolver (79) 11 years ago

True, I know of a machine that refuses to work on Saturday.. it just won't work !

[Deleted]

[-] 0 points by JesseHeffran (3903) 11 years ago

to be honest is neither subjective nor objective, but to honestly report the news is very subjective. The act of picking sources, the act of emphasizing one set of factors over another and the act of not reporting on other factors all are subjective but are not dishonest.

[-] -2 points by Micah (-58) 11 years ago

chavez scammed over 2 bil from his people. chavez made a huge profit off of his own people.

[-] 2 points by Builder (4202) 11 years ago

He's dead already.

He lifted millions of his people from the austerity caused by the US criminal bankster invasion of Chile.

Look up Milton Friedman and The Shock Doctrine.

[-] -1 points by Micah (-58) 11 years ago

Yes, at long last he's dead. He stole his peoples money. Dont go blaming anyone or anything but him. Please do not make excuses for a dictator.

[-] 2 points by Builder (4202) 11 years ago

You have confused him with Pinochet.

[-] -1 points by Micah (-58) 11 years ago

No, I have not.

[-] -3 points by 1sealyon (434) 11 years ago

Not sure that Chavez cared more for people than profits. His reign was pretty profitable:

http://www.celebritynetworth.com/richest-politicians/hugo-chavez-net-worth/

[-] 2 points by beautifulworld (23769) 11 years ago

Shall we list the net worth of our Congressmen and other politicians?

[-] -1 points by 1sealyon (434) 11 years ago

They are no better, they just have somewhat greater restrictions on their ability to steal from the people compared to Chavez. Loudoun is the richest county in the US. Why?

Chavez was a thug, a thief, an autocrat, and worse, a petty one. Why in the world do people let despots like Chavez rule their lives?

[-] 2 points by beautifulworld (23769) 11 years ago

When was the last time Chavez made a drone attack on innocent children?

[Removed]

[-] -2 points by satohirona (-20) 11 years ago

Two wrongs don't make a right.

It's known around the world that America is the most evil country, it doesn't mean other countries and leaders aren't bad. Every country is angelic compared to US. Being better than US means close to nothing. We have to aim much higher than that.

[-] 3 points by beautifulworld (23769) 11 years ago

Some wrongs are worse than others.

[-] -3 points by satohirona (-20) 11 years ago

No one's arguing that.

Like I said, the wrongs committed by US are the most evil in the world. Everyone knows that. I'm happy I never have to set foot on American soil. I did a few times and it was the worst cultural experience in my life. A complete disaster on all levels.

I'm wondering why you defend the wrongs of Chavez. Surely, if his wrongs weren't that bad you wouldn't have to compare them to the most evil wrongs in the world to make them look good.

Shouldn't Occupy attack all wrongs? Else, how can we hope to make a better world?

[-] 2 points by beautifulworld (23769) 11 years ago

We can hope to make the world better by caring for all people, even the most destitute on the planet.

[-] -2 points by satohirona (-20) 11 years ago

True. Indeed. Are you trying to imply that because Chavez did some very good we should overlook his very wrong?

[-] 2 points by GirlFriday (17435) 11 years ago

Trollin, Trollin, Trollin,

[-] -1 points by 1sealyon (434) 11 years ago

So you condemn 300 million people after just a few visits? No very open minded.

[-] 1 points by satohirona (-20) 11 years ago

I also see Americans on TV, and have met many outside of US. And, yes, I also trust my first impressions. The number of interesting Americans per capita is extremely small compared to other cultures. As a rule of thumb, we can say that nearly all Americans are a complete waste of time. It's the TV they watch, the guns they carry, and the junk food they ingest. To think properly, a brain needs to be fed properly. You can't expect much from people who eat at McDonald's every day, and think a Hollywood hit equates cinematic art. A show like Jerry Springer could only be made in America and reach top ratings in America. That says it all.

[-] 1 points by 1sealyon (434) 11 years ago

For many years I have met and worked with people from different countries and cultures and find that there is a mix of good and bad (but mostly good). The important take-away from that experience is that making assumptions about large numbers of people based on tiny sample sizes in not only erroneous but also lazy.

[-] 0 points by GirlFriday (17435) 11 years ago

Losin’, losin’, losin’, Trolls we’re disapprovin', Keep them trolls a-movin', killfile. Don't try to understand 'em, Extinguish fires, don’t fan them. Soon you'll see quiet far and wide. You’ll miss out on their baitin', Their arguin’ and ravin', They’re waitin' to be in your killfile.

Move 'em in, turn ‘em off, Turn ‘em off, move 'em in, Move 'em in, turn ‘em off, killfile! Tune 'em out, put 'em in, Put 'em in, tune 'em out, Tune 'em out, put 'em in killfiles!

Trollin', trollin', trollin', Killfiles all are swollen, Keep them filters growin', killfile. Wherever trolls should blather, Ignore ‘em altogether, Try it, you’ll have some peace and quiet. The things that you’ll be missin', The moanin’ and the pissin', Are gone if you just kiss ‘em goodbye.

Move 'em in, turn ‘em off, Turn ‘em off, move 'em in, Move 'em in, turn ‘em off, killfile! Tune 'em out, put 'em in, Put 'em in, tune 'em out, Tune 'em out, put 'em in killfiles!

[-] 0 points by 1sealyon (434) 11 years ago

300 million people! That is a pretty broad brush you've got there.

[-] 0 points by satohirona (-20) 11 years ago

It's a broad brush, but it paints the truth. Live outside of US for a few years then come back. You'll be flabbergasted at the lowliness of Americans. There's a good reason Americans have a bad reputation just about anywhere outside US.

Have you read Dr. Ana Krüntz's scientific study on NNOIQD?

http://occupywallst.org/forum/reuters-scientific-world-buzzes-around-ows/

[-] 1 points by ProblemSolver (79) 11 years ago

America is the Best Country in the WORLD.

[-] 1 points by Builder (4202) 11 years ago
[-] -3 points by 1sealyon (434) 11 years ago

Excusing bad behavior by pointing out examples of bad behavior is no argument.

That said Chavez sponsored death squads are well documented (a bullet is cheaper than a drone).

http://www.amnestyusa.org/research/reports/annual-report-venezuela-2010

Why do you coddle this tyrant?

[-] 2 points by beautifulworld (23769) 11 years ago

People who help the poor are often maligned. It's typical behavior by people who want to hold on to what they have while others starve and suffer.

[-] -3 points by 1sealyon (434) 11 years ago

He fed them the scraps so he could stay in power while he and his cronies made tens of $ billions. This is not news. The evidence is widely available from human rights organizations. How can you defend him?

[-] 3 points by beautifulworld (23769) 11 years ago

Have we ended poverty here? Do we talk about ending poverty here? Do we take any action to end poverty here? Do we care about the poor here? There is no champion of the poor here, there was in Venezuela.

[-] -2 points by 1sealyon (434) 11 years ago

So Chavez was a great guy because he sucks less than our politicians? That is like bragging about being cleanest pig in the sty.

[-] -2 points by jrhirsch (4714) from Sun City, CA 11 years ago

Why don't beautifulworld and 1sealyon present evidence for their opinions regarding Chavez instead of back and forth unsupported argument. Assuming they don't live in Venezuela, let's see first hand information from the people who do.

[-] 1 points by jrhirsch (4714) from Sun City, CA 11 years ago

Very interesting link. Not so much the statistics, but the arguments in the comments section, both for and against, some from people who actually live there.

If we did a similar judgement on Obama's performance, I think the result would the same as Chavez, both sides ferociously defending and condemning his actions at the same time.

[-] 4 points by shadz66 (19985) 11 years ago

Sitting on the fence like that will only give you a sore arse and possibly piles too ! This is OWS - we do what ever we do, for The 99% - wherever we are - so are you with us 'Mr.Journo' ?!! 'Trashy' apparently thinks I'm "desperate" lolol & indeed I am - for The 99% !!! Thus :

Viva Chavismo ! Adios Commandante Con Cojones, Hugo Chaves Frias !! Solidaridad Siempre Amigo !!!

paz y luz ...

[-] 3 points by Builder (4202) 11 years ago

It's easy to paint a picture when you own all the main media sources.

Look at what they did to Libya's leader.

[-] -1 points by 1sealyon (434) 11 years ago

I agree. Chavez controlled all of the media outlets in Venezuela, except the ones that he destroyed.

[-] -3 points by satohirona (-20) 11 years ago

Unbelievable. Your position is made even more ironic because of your username. A beautiful world indeed when we ignore the wrongs. Ignorance is bliss.

I encourage you to read up on Chavez. Either you're ill informed, or you defend his evil. I'm hoping it's the former.

Like the post says, apathy is depressing. As an occupier, you should care when wrongs are committed. We point those things out, we don't defend them.

[-] 4 points by beautifulworld (23769) 11 years ago

Well, you can read and believe propaganda, if you like, which is what most people have done.

[-] 2 points by jrhirsch (4714) from Sun City, CA 11 years ago

Why don't beautifulworld and 1sealyon present evidence for their opinions regarding Chavez instead of back and forth unsupported argument. Assuming they don't live in Venezuela, let's see first hand information from the people who do.

[-] 0 points by satohirona (-20) 11 years ago

I you believe Chavez has done no serious wrong, then it's you who reads propaganda.

[-] 6 points by shadz66 (19985) 11 years ago

Apparently 'Tr@shy', you try to call yourself a leftist and a 'socialist' but of course, that is yet another of your miasma of myriad manipulative mendacities and in truth (something of which you seem to know so little and 'feel' even less) - if you actually had even the remotest clue about Chavez, you'd know which side the bread is buttered on this matter but of course you are here as a egomaniacal, specious, fork-tongued agent provocateur - intentionally out to obfuscate, defame and get a rise.

So, we'll try some 'call and response' shall we because I've got some links to lay down and hence I'll be your huckleberry and see where we go. Thus for openers read (if you dare) :

"Chavez had a real grasp of the dynamics of imperialism, and recognised that the Iraq war, and the opposition to it, held back the US from intervening against his government." & "Visiting the Venezuela of what he called the Bolivarian Revolution was to experience something exceptional in today’s neoliberal world, a country in which ordinary people genuinely admired, respected and often revered their leader. "

et anguis in herba - temet nosce ...

[-] 0 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

Slap him/her(?) good. Slap the troll/attacker/shill/sell-out to infinitude.

[-] -3 points by satohirona (-20) 11 years ago

Chavez was great in many ways. There's no doubt about that. But we shouldn't be blinded by the good and not see the bad.

Why do you always use ad hominem? It demeans your intellectualism, and does nothing to strengthen your position. If anything, it makes you look desperate.

[-] 1 points by shadz66 (19985) 11 years ago

Naah, re. above, not desperate about you 'T' - but more to try to answer a deeper quandaries such as :

Well at least you're not calling yourself 'OccupyWaIIStreet' (using double Capital 'i's !) and posting about 'Bridge To Ground' as that would only get someone's boot to 'bridge' over to your ass, right ?!

verum ex absurdo ...

[+] -5 points by Micah (-58) 11 years ago

He was a fascist dictator that amassed a fortune of over 2 billion at the expense of his people.

[-] 3 points by shadz66 (19985) 11 years ago

You are a liar & so : 'When Fools Meet Heroes !!!' :

U.S. Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), is Chairman of the Subcommittee on the Middle East and North Africa.

ab absurdum(b) ...

[+] -4 points by Micah (-58) 11 years ago

Fascist dictators are not heros.

[-] -1 points by beautifulworld (23769) 11 years ago

Fascist dictators run countries with economic systems that fail the masses. You just don't like the fact that Chavez fought for the poor, even the poor here in America which makes the U.S. government look bad, so you need to malign him.

[-] 3 points by gnomunny (6819) from St Louis, MO 11 years ago

Nah, he probably just believes the MSM propaganda against Chavez, like most Americans. I just read an article a couple weeks ago with some eye-opening truths about Chavez, like sticking it to Big Oil in contract negotiations and something about, I think Dole Inc., that allowed thousands of poor people the ability to own land. I can't remember where or I'd link it.

Where you at, Shadz? lol

[-] 0 points by beautifulworld (23769) 11 years ago

"Here is what Jimmy Carter said about Venezuela's "dictatorship" a few weeks ago: "As a matter of fact, of the 92 elections that we've monitored, I would say that the election process in Venezuela is the best in the world."

"This is the former president of Brazil, Lula da Silva, last month: "A victory for Chávez is not just a victory for the people of Venezuela but also a victory for all the people of Latin America … this victory will strike another blow against imperialism."

"...the living standards of the majority of Venezuelans have dramatically improved under Chávez. Since 2004, when the government gained control over the oil industry and the economy had recovered from the devastating, extra-legal attempts to overthrow it (including the 2002 US-backed military coup and oil strike of 2002-2003), poverty has been cut in half and extreme poverty by 70%."

From Shadz's links, lol.

[-] 3 points by GypsyKing (8708) 11 years ago

If people only understood that what the American corporate establishment has done to people in Latin America is what they would also like to do to us, and also understood just how bad what the establishment has done in Latin America is, then everything would change in America tomorrow.

I spent years protesting U.S. Latin American policy in the 80's, and I hope people now are more receptive to the ugly truth regarding our policies there.

The loss of Hugo Chavez is a loss for freedom loving people everywhere. Our condolences must go out to the Venezuelan people.

[-] 1 points by beautifulworld (23769) 11 years ago

"The loss of Hugo Chavez is a loss for freedom loving people everywhere."

Thank you GK, for that enlightened comment.

[-] 0 points by gnomunny (6819) from St Louis, MO 11 years ago

That's another good article from ICH. And a correction to my comment. It wasn't Dole, Inc. but Heinz Ketchup:

http://truth-out.org/opinion/item/13800-big-oil-big-ketchup-and-the-assassination-of-hugo-chavez

I'll go out on a limb and thank LeoYo for that, since Truth-Out is usually his source for posting, although it could have been Shadz.

In fact, thanks to both for doing such a stellar job of spreading Truth and Information.

[-] -1 points by beautifulworld (23769) 11 years ago

I'll second that. Both are outstanding contributors here.

[-] 0 points by gnomunny (6819) from St Louis, MO 11 years ago

Invaluable. I just wish I had the time to read all their damn links! ;-)

[-] -1 points by beautifulworld (23769) 11 years ago

Agreed!!

[-] -2 points by Micah (-58) 11 years ago

he nationalized all private companies, destroyed the middle class,........stole billions for himself ( over 2 bil ).

[+] -5 points by MattLHolck (16833) from San Diego, CA 11 years ago

the US deficit 2013 was 1,300 billion

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[-] 0 points by Narley (272) 11 years ago

Most Americans live a comfortable, secure life. Most aren’t interested in politics or social issues. I’d guess most people couldn’t name their governor or senator. As long as they can have their Starbucks and big screen TV they are content.

I think a large part of this apathy is most people today have never lived through hard times. Even the wars haven’t touched most people. It’s just a five minute update on the nightly news. People think, and expect, they will have it all. As much as we complain about it, most people really are living the American dream.

I don’t expect people to “wake up”. I don’t expect people to get involved; or even care. Nothing will happen until things get so bad it touches them personally. Only when their secure and comfortable lives are threatened will people start caring.

I’m one who believes the economy will crash, and we’ll probably have another depression. Then, and only then, will people start caring.

[-] 2 points by alterorabolish1 (569) 11 years ago

"Only when their secure and comfortable lives are threatened will people start caring."

That's exactly what i fear. Is there any other way to wake people before this happens? I intend to try.

[-] 1 points by LeoYo (5909) 11 years ago

The thing to do is to make taking action as simple as possible such as sending a tweet. People can certainly "Tweet for Freedom" (see below) in spreading the message of a viable plan and college students are the most conscious and active people for supporting any movement.

FreeDA: Taking Freedom Into Our Own Hands http://occupywallst.org/forum/free-democracy-amendment/

That said, even getting people to simply send a tweet is going to be a monumental task.

[-] 2 points by Narley (272) 11 years ago

The problem with getting people involved is everyone is trying to get people’s attention. Every advertiser, every charity, every political issue and so on. The masses are inundated with people trying to get their attention. Everywhere you turn someone wants your money or attention.

The result is people tune out almost everything. It’s impossible to internalize all the things wanting you to notice them. So, you just ignore it. Or more accurately for your sanity you ignore it.

It’s gonna be hard to get a single mother working her ass off to support her child to care about social issues. It’s going to be hard to get an ailing senior citizen who can barely feed themselves to care about social issues. And the list goes on.

One factor for OWS is its agenda is complex and not easily understood by the person on the street. If you can’t explain what you’re about in thirty seconds you probably won’t make a difference. If you want people to care they have to understand what it is you want.

[-] 1 points by jrhirsch (4714) from Sun City, CA 11 years ago

Very good points.

[-] -2 points by GirlFriday (17435) 11 years ago

Wow.

[-] 2 points by GirlFriday (17435) 11 years ago

Yep. :D