51. God Answers Prayers Of Paralyzed Little Boy: 'No' Says God

Comment #60747 by k1mgy on August 2, 2007 at 7:30 pm

Today on National Public Radio in the US, some catholic priest fellow, close to the tragic bridge collapse scene and who says he's been "ministering" since the event, was asked if this would "shake people's faith in god". This, following an interview where one person who cleared the bridge just 10 minutes before it went down asked "why was I spared?"

The good father had a ZERO answer. All he could say is that he is "here to listen".

I got the feeling that even this priest didn't believe all the bullshit, but had to go along to get along. After all, it's a rare career (other than military service) that provides food, housing, and until recently, no-risk entertainment at no charge.

No one had the good sense to ascribe the whole thing to a matter of chance planted by a seed of government ineptitude and uncaring.

And now, as a real confidence builder, who rushes to the scene to investigate? The very government that's ultimately responsible.

52. Texas Leads U.S. in Teen Birth Rate

Comment #59571 by k1mgy on July 29, 2007 at 5:22 pm

The raw data (well organized) is here:
http://www.kidscount.org/sld/databook.jsp

What's very interesting are the parallels between bible-belt regions in the US and teen pregnancies, high school dropouts, etc.

In my home state, Massachusetts, we have legalized gay marriage. We also sport the lowest level of divorce in the country. States with bizarro religious influence coupled with right-wing republican "values" suffer from some of the highest rates.

I should think someone might come up with the conclusion that amounts to just the opposite of what is so quickly espoused by the republican right wing wackos in the US: That the alleged "values" of religion are detrimental to society; that mixing religion into the civil society is destructive; and that ignorance that springs from and is fostered by religion leads to failure.

53. Debate between Christopher Hitchens and Edd Doerr

Comment #59217 by k1mgy on July 28, 2007 at 10:44 am

This interview reminded me so much of arguments (discussions) with my bride. Once a point is reached where my side can no longer be refuted the discussion either abruptly ends or my bride switches the subject.

At the 20 minute point in the program (and several times before) it seemed to me the moderator did just that. Brave of them to have Hitchens on their broadcast, exposing religion as the fraud it is. Unfortunate that Edd Doerr cannot see that the "moderates" he sides with are the progenitors of the very problems we are all facing.

The best way to fight fire is to cut off its oxygen for the only bargain to be had with the deluded and insane is a false one that is dangerous on its face.

54. Don't eat at the Outback Steakhouse on Route 3...

Comment #59046 by k1mgy on July 27, 2007 at 3:54 am

Ironically, since Mr. Righteous Responder has disabled comments on his You Boob video, I must reply here.

Two important points.

First: Nice hat. From which Winn Dixie parking lot did you find it?

Second: I really like the combination of your "dog tags" (military identification) and the, "I am not advocating violence by any stretch of the imagination". Since the tags are at the ready, and you do appear to be residing in the correct country, why not take the next step and join up? Your Bush maladministration is (desperately) seeking fresh warriors for its righteous battle in IRAQ. You do appear fit enough, although the strenuous training will flesh out blubber and muscle, so we shall see.. and of course you have all the needed social, emotional and intellectual (emphasis here) elements.

The only piece missing will be an ability to execute commands without hesitation or question. Surprisingly, despite the appearance that you're just another cog in the idiot machine, I believe you will find this the most difficult. My guess - they won't want you, but why not try?

Well, good luck.

55. Must the US president believe in God?

Comment #57798 by k1mgy on July 21, 2007 at 5:33 am

A politician will say anything to get elected. Puts "god", quite appropriately, right up there with all the other lies.

56. Convict sues God for broken contract

Comment #56867 by k1mgy on July 17, 2007 at 3:14 pm

Not the Onion at all.

Read all about it:

http://tinyurl.com/yqk5cq

57. LA Church 'agrees abuse pay deal'

Comment #56639 by k1mgy on July 16, 2007 at 5:34 pm

>>Does this pay out mean that these priests are off
>>the hook???? If so, I am outraged!"

Welcome to the outrage club.

58. LA Church 'agrees abuse pay deal'

Comment #56524 by k1mgy on July 16, 2007 at 5:41 am

These priests have needs. "God" should reconsider his prohibition on marriage just as he did a Romney flip-flop on purgatory for the unbaptized. This would solve the problem of child rape happening behind the curtains and leave it to the privacy of the home.

--

It's stunning to me how our systems of "justice" here in 'Murca permit criminal acts to be paid off. This happened most recently where those idiots who erected electronic (Aqua Teen Hunger Force) signs onto bridge decks and public transit facilities were hauled off on criminal charges while Turner Broadcasting, worth billions, paid off Boston and avoided any liability. In the end, holding those two IQ-and-bath-challenged fellows up as an example became embarrassing. There was no way they could possibly be thrashed while Turner walked free by paying off the system. Doing so would surely put a spotlight on just how corrupt it all is.

The travesty conducted and condoned by the catholic church would would be, in any other context, brought down as a wide conspiracy, with elements of obstruction of justice, all around the underlying crime of child rape. Lots of people would be in prison right now, and others on the way. Instead, the "church" is permitted to doll out cash and, pardon the expression, get off.

Now they can divvy out a "sorry... Won't let it happen again" and then pass the plate. Some of these victims ought to rap them over the head with it.

This is not the church's fault exclusively. Our systems, made of people, share the blame. Many prosecutors and juries are sympathetic towards religion and in my region where it all surfaced - Boston - catholicism. Members of the church have infested many of our public institutions. Perhaps some think that only the right-wing drooling bible-bashers are dangerous in public life? Any religious in any public life are dangerous. In this case, they protect their own. The losers are the children (now adults) who continue to suffer and society, who gets yet another example that the "S" in Justice is a dollar symbol.

I agree with Dr. Dawkins who says that there are crimes far greater, particularly the forced indoctrination of children into religion, but I'd point out that the way this has been handled by the civil society is a pointer towards a problem just as dangerous as what the Haggardists present.

So, what to do? The victims should continue to bleed this corrupt church (it's members will pay) for all it's worth until they have nothing but a few shabby brick buildings remaining, and on the way point out soundly how they were almost totally abandoned by the protections of criminal law which did not come to bear except in the most egregious of cases where public scrutiny could no longer be avoided.

59. Christians disrupt Hindu Prayer at Senate Invocation

Comment #56174 by k1mgy on July 14, 2007 at 8:38 am

Frankly I'd rather each session of the House and Senate begin with a re-recitation of their Oath to the US Constitution, not this religious nonsense. Clearly, each and every one of these bush-enablers need reminding.

---
Reverend Flip Benham, the leader of the group, said: "Not one senator had the backbone to stand as our Founding Fathers stood. They stood on the gospel of Jesus Christ! There were three in the audience with the courage to stand and proclaim, 'Thou shalt have no other gods before me'."
---

Hey, chickenhawk. What happened to your backbone?

Where was "Flip" when the current US mal-adminstration took an axe to the US Constitution? One might think certain pieces of it would be important to Flip's continued cashflow. Where was "Flip" when the congressional enablers sat idly by while Habeus Corpus rights were put into a right wing meat grinder? Good to know his followers are white and right, otherwise they'd be screwed. Where was "Flip" when the mal-administration and congress lied, cheated, and stealed its way into an immoral and unnecessary war? Maybe it might prevent Flip from having to tote a gun. Under 40 years old, Flip? Drop the religious excuse. Sign up.

Finally, where was "Flip" when his flock was led away in irons? Seems to me "Flip" ought to stand right out there for his "belief", put his ass on the line, or zip that opening to his empty head.

Maybe his excuse would be, "Someone had to remain behind to be a media warrior"

Asshat.

These ignorant wackos are probably of the same group who were all cheers when the current bush mal-administration gave India carte-blanche as to nukes.

In the world of all the Haggardists, fortunately these certifiables are in the extreme minority. The remaining larger Haggardistic community sits by, not uttering a word of protest against them.

So someone tell me they are any less dangerous.

60. Won't anyone stand up for God?

Comment #54493 by k1mgy on July 7, 2007 at 12:36 pm

"So I am astounded that in the face of so much aggressive atheist attack no one in the ranks of believers or in the Church has stood up to reply."

Astounded? After all those paragraphs, the author actually poses this question? Hello?? Could it be that the ranks of believers have ZERO to offer? Imagine that!

"A Black Hole is as sobering a concept as the voice of God coming from the clouds on Mount Sinai. And the intricacy of the double helix or the human genome are as great a marvel as the most heart-stopping landscape on Earth or cloudscape in the Heavens."

One can SEE the images from the Hubbell Space Telescope with one's own eyes. There's everything sober about it. Hearing voices and seeing stuff that's not there suggests inebriation or mental imbalance. That's not sobering - it's frightening.

It's ever so painful to have to explain this. Someone, please take over.

61. Unorthodox Atheist

Comment #54069 by k1mgy on July 5, 2007 at 7:13 am

This was a school system in the US, I presume. If so, it fits.

My brother, back in the late 1970's, was suspended from high school for... playing a harmonica while walking between classes. After my mother was through with the school principal he made a rather musical sound when he walked. My brother returned to classes that day, harmonica in hand.

The primary school experience is, of course, designed to prepare one for the real world. I'd say that, in your case and however sad the incident was, they did a good job in spite of themselves.

Welcome to adulthood. Good luck finding any to share the experience with.

62. Don't Mince Words: The London Car-Bomb Plot Was Designed to Kill Women

Comment #53871 by k1mgy on July 3, 2007 at 6:34 pm

The video deserves some translation for us non-British. Still, it's classic:

"This is Glasgow - we'll just set about you"...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cCqprbH7mrg

63. Floods are judgment on society, say bishops

Comment #53502 by k1mgy on July 1, 2007 at 6:45 pm

"We are in serious moral trouble because every type of lifestyle is now regarded as legitimate," he said.

"INCLUDING YOURS", I said.

Followed by the epithet, "Asshats!".

How else to respond to this lot of nonsense except to feel very afraid for our world with these idiots in it.

64. Inferior Design: Richard Dawkins reviews Behe's lastest book

Comment #53292 by k1mgy on June 30, 2007 at 3:19 pm

Brilliant! And worth the wait. I had, when I read Behe's nasty little intro in Time Magazine, hoped fervently that Richard Dawkins would take him on. As Behe admonished from his Baable, "Concerning the big questions, the Bible advises us to be hot or cold but not lukewarm.". Stand back then 'cause here comes the heat.

Dawkins' book review read beautifully and for him the exercise must have been cathartic, perhaps a bit painful to add a little more soil to the self-made burial mound of one who was once a scientist. Mostly, Behe's book seems to have made the book review process easy.

Congratulations. Hopefully this one will sew up Behe's mouth for a while. The judge couldn't do it. Maybe another dose of the plain truth will.

65. Doctors' beliefs can hinder patient care

Comment #51348 by k1mgy on June 22, 2007 at 12:49 pm

I'm enraged (once more in the daily cycle).

Lawsuits, lots of lawsuits. Formal complaints to boards of medical registration. Formal complaints to insurance providers. Lots of bad press. Public humiliation. Editorials. Picketing. Thrashing.

These idiots "practicing" medicine deserve to be exposed and run out of Dodge.

66. Bush Vetoes Measure on Stem Cell Research

Comment #51049 by k1mgy on June 21, 2007 at 9:36 am

Every sperm is sacred. Except when the cell is used in *private* research.

Yes, we the current Bush mal-administration will lean on a Baable and take on an alleged "morality", yet at the same time we have no opposition to privately funded stem cell research.

I wonder how the fundaMENTALists deal with this rather odd twist of logic? In this corner it's A-OK to "murder babies" for private research. In the other corner it's Not-OK to have the government fund research.

This argument has a rather catholic tone about it. Condoms: bad for you. Aids: the result of not using condoms. Oh, by the way, too bad you died.

As usual the mal-administration really doesn't have much of a hook to hang its hat on (let alone a skull for the hat to adorn).

And now for what I really want to say: Ours is an administration of total assholes.

Meanwhile in Singapore...
http://www.stemcell.edu.sg/

67. Republican candidates range from ignorant to dishonest, part 2

Comment #50217 by k1mgy on June 15, 2007 at 6:57 pm

>>Only rational choice is Ron Paul. Dennis Kucinich would be a close second, but don't address the monetary issue.<<

Ron Paul has a difficult past with right-wing extremist groups which causes me to lean away. He has not addressed his past. He also leans a bit too far into Libertarian territory. There are things that government ought to do to help its citizens. Paul would rather people help one another. Nice, but not practical.

Ever heard of Democratic Senator Mike Gravel?

http://www.gravel2008.us/

He wants to do much of what Paul asserts. Gravel would claim that Ron Paul could help to stop the war right now by virtue of being a member of congress. Gravel ended the draft by fillibuster and released the Pentagon Papers. Worth a look perhaps?

/m

68. The Future Forum Presents: Christopher Hitchens and Marvin Olasky

Comment #49948 by k1mgy on June 14, 2007 at 8:11 am

I am sorry for the pitiful example of intellectual achievement that Boston has turned out in Dr. Olasky. Fortunately I did not have to suffer through his lectures. Evidence his whining, and the repetitive and pitifully weak arguments. I would have failed his class but made quite a splash.

It's a good thing he didn't pull that self-righteous marriage shit on me (his remark about how, since "converting", his marriage has been divine. I'm surprised Hitchens stayed in his chair over that one.

It's a wonder Olasky heads up a publication or stands with any credibility whatsoever. He likely left the hall feeling a sting of deserved abuse which only amplifies the belief system for martyrdom is a foundation of the creed. The more they are whipped, the more right they become. Suffer, suffer, suffer all those who approach life irrationally, for theirs is the "kingdom" of god.

If these weaklings seek out the likes of Hitchens, Dawkins and others, maybe they're just needing a little more abuse and "persecution" to further embed their belief system?

Well, enjoy it.

But I wonder if Hitchens and others have considered that these debates, although certainly putting the atheist message out there, serve to add fuel to the Haggardist's flame.

69. PBS Revelation: Network's 'Wall Of Separation' Has Religious Right Genesis

Comment #49625 by k1mgy on June 12, 2007 at 3:54 pm

This work is reported to suggest that the US should really be a theocracy, this despite not an inkling of evidence of such in the original foundation documents and writings. Are the producers the same folks who brought us the "Creation Museum" who say "Don't think - have faith"?

Apparently the current US Mal-administration gets to score one: all the ideologues that have been installed at the Corporation for Public Broadcasting should be turning out something for their paychecks.

The board of this once balanced and forthright institution includes the current chair, Cheryl Halpern, who was installed after Kenneth Y. Tomlinson, a religious wack job and partisan, was ousted after a long painful scream of public opinion when Tomlinson tried to silence some of PBS's best known voices. Halpern is more partisan than religious (although undoubtedly she meets that qualification, too). Her experience at the US propaganda arm the Voice of America are one plus, but surely her being a major fund-raiser for the current US mal-administrator is really what got her a place at the public feed troth.

Other partisan republicans appointed by the current Mal-administrator include Gay Hart Gaines who is the "vice" chair, and Warren Bell, a real gem. Bell was rejected by the Senate and got in using the "recess appointment" tactic used by the mal-administrator to maintain the high level of quality and integrity that the US government brings. Who cares what the US Congress (the people) have to say when you're "The Decider".

Bell has, according to critics, a documented series of racist, homophobic, and anti-women remarks and, "no discernible relevant achievement, involvement or commitment to public broadcasting", according to an NPR spokesperson. A good fit. Bell is an analog to the former UN ambassador from the current US mal-administration, John Bolton. Bolton wanted to dismantle the UN. Bell wanted to dismantle PBS, NPR and CPB.

Claudia Puig (easy to misspell) is another Republican, appointed by the current mal-administrator. Also on the board is Chris Boskin, a Republican with less of a sordid past.

Two democrats, Ernest J. Wilson III (nominated by President Clinton) and former Senator David H. Pryor sit on the board.

Stack enough hacks and partisans into publicly-funded organizations and their proud past and achievements will be pushed aside for the "greater good": propping up the current US mal-administration and their odd and dangerous theocratic leanings.

Note: the film producers only want to "make a difference" in the culture. This is the same mantra from another Haggardist, David Kirkpatrick, who is attempting to bring "Good News Holdings" (aka religious propaganda film company) to Massachusetts:

http://www.boston.com/business/articles/2007/06/06/faith_based_fare_may_get_made_in_mass_tag/

70. Christopher Hitchens on The Hour

Comment #49397 by k1mgy on June 11, 2007 at 7:42 pm

I loathe Hitchens for his IRAQ position and apologetic of the current US mal-administration, and greatly respect him for his statements on religion. The latter has left in me some opening for doubt of the former. He does argue the IRAQ mess well.

In this interview Hitchens, perhaps twice "poker-faced", states as a matter-of-fact that he's of the opinion the religious wackos with "apocalyptic" weapons may well get to use them and "win out". (I suspect that's the US included).

This should have brought stunned silence but instead the interview rolled on as if nothing had occurred.

I believe he believes it and I think there's very good reason to consider this seriously as a damn good reason to take up a personal charge against the encroachment of religion into public and political life.

71. A Quote Against Theocracy

Comment #48489 by k1mgy on June 8, 2007 at 6:47 am

Anyone have a clue as to what the "wholesome doubt" in "it forbids wholesome doubt" means?

Is that like the "civil" in "civil discourse"?

Who defines "wholesome"? "god"?

72. Republican candidates range from ignorant to dishonest, part 2

Comment #48402 by k1mgy on June 7, 2007 at 6:29 pm

I had avoided watching or listening to the "debate" for the very thinks that Stewart so skillfully brought out. I avoided watching or listening because I knew that doing so would bring on sadness, depression, or rage.

Now I feel all three.

Sorry. I realize this is not a forum where emotional outbursts ought to have a home, but I do hope my comment as to the "debate" will stand:

WHAT A BUNCH OF RETARDS.

73. Man to die over insult

Comment #47129 by k1mgy on June 3, 2007 at 4:35 am

>>Does anyone know if there is a petition we can sign, or the address of some Pakistani official we can write to try to help this unfortunate
man?<<

George "Dubbleya" Bush

He's the head of a mal-administration that is partly responsible for propping up and continuing to enable Musharaf and, by the way, Musharaf has nukes.

74. A Look at Regent University

Comment #46285 by k1mgy on May 30, 2007 at 7:08 pm

Others have echoed my own reaction to this Moyer's piece: I am sickened and frightened by it.

Romney is a fraud, and a hack who will say anything to be elected. He was "just looking for a race to enter" prior to winning a term as Massachusetts governor and used his position to provide a stage on which to gain further attention.

Sucking around a psychopath like Robertson and the dregs of the "religious right" in this country is reason enough that Willard Mitt ought to be discounted, let alone his own bizarre belief system which, only recently, finally admitted that blacks were human beings.

I shudder to think what may happen to justice in America should there be, as the prissy Regent graduate extoled, "no grey areas" (speak for yourself), but instead, "absolutes". May she be the first victim of what her indoctrination will wreak.

75. Another Christian Science Fair embarrasses itself

Comment #45016 by k1mgy on May 25, 2007 at 7:34 pm

Future career: christian dentistry

76. Lightning damages Jesus statue

Comment #44441 by k1mgy on May 24, 2007 at 6:26 pm

I should think the Holy Sisters would learn a lesson from this experience and, as in a dashboard ornament, replace the stone Jesus with a plastic one.

77. Dental healer finds share of faithful believers

Comment #44227 by k1mgy on May 23, 2007 at 7:21 pm

"I have seen some things that would make science realize that there is a creator," Jones told the crowd, his half-tenor, half-baritone voice now so loud that the speakers distort it. "Especially when you watch teeth move in slow motion and straighten; especially when you see God create things that wasn't."

--

Notice the photo? "Crowd" of 3, plus the reporter.

..

Someday we may evolve socially to a point where it becomes necessary, for the good of all, to assist wayward folks like the "Reverend" towards a life path that does not infect others with whatever disease it is he's carrying. Just as consideration is being given to quarantine large segments of populations in the event of the massive spread of a deadly infectious disease, so too should some form of protection be given society from the disease of ignorance.

In the least, the "Reverend" ought to be sanctioned simply for steering the dumb away from the appropriate medical care they deserve.

Fact is many diseases begin in the mouth and are a result of improper dental care, so the "Reverend" may well be contributing to a greater problem, besides bilking hope and treasure from his victims.

I would prescribe a 2 week stay in an appropriate locked unit for close observation, therapy, and the necessary pharmacological adjuncts to assist the "Reverend" to re-join the reality-based community and lead a more productive life.

Once he's on the mend, I'd also send him off to an English language school. Besides the psychological, health care and financial threat he represents, ANYONE who emits the phrase "things that wasn't" is in my view a total danger who ought to be locked up before any more harm is caused.

78. Jerry Falwell's Hit Parade

Comment #42166 by k1mgy on May 17, 2007 at 6:34 pm

Just saw a video of a Fox "News" segment featuring, of all the hacks that could have been dredged up, Ralph (Jack Abramoff) Reid and Hitchens going at it.

The whole exchange is classic and ends with Hitchen's closing remark, "If you gave Falwell an enema, he could be buried in a matchbox."

79. Jerry Falwell's Hit Parade

Comment #42110 by k1mgy on May 17, 2007 at 4:07 pm

Perhaps it's an act of rational far-thinking that "The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly" section of this web site features the mug of none other than the dearly departed himself. I do hope it remains as a patentable icon for "the bad". Certainly it also rates "ugly". The only "good" is that he's finally gone.

http://richarddawkins.net/images/GBUnewthumb.jpg

80. Television evangelist Falwell dies at 73

Comment #41234 by k1mgy on May 15, 2007 at 4:54 pm

Rick Stromoski lays out the case quite well for my desire to, once Fallwell (how appropriate) is planted, relieve myself upon his headstone.

As much as I desire to engage in a fact-filled discussion, lean on being rational, and all that other good rot, today it's difficult to squelch the base urge to let the bladder go when I consider all the horrors that this one person has brought. He rates as the second individual upon whose grave I wish to piss on. The first is Nixon's which may give the reader some concept of the scope. Today is a reminder of all the damage plus the good fortune for society that at least one spokesperson of mass-ignorance is gone.

Just as some in society celebrate when a murderer gets the electric chair, I think there's a place for a little reveling right here.

Just re-read Stromoski's excellent compilation to get a feel for just how much damage this one individual has caused, let alone his enabling of the current US mal-administration which rates fairly high - in the crimes against humanity department.

Now the faitful will be all in a fit of tears. Why? Is not this great (in more ways than one) leader going to join the saints, prophets, and the almighty?

Well, why not cheer it on with the rest of us then and enjoy? Certainly Larry Flynt will.

81. Facing Off on Evolution

Comment #40717 by k1mgy on May 14, 2007 at 7:12 pm

Unfortunately neither side was adequately prepared for the question. Disappointing, but I would still give a point for the Atheists side simply because they did not resort to silly analogs.

Now, as to the topics in hands, "May I share your notes?"

82. Atheism in America

Comment #40596 by k1mgy on May 14, 2007 at 2:57 pm

In my view John Stossel is, for various reasons related to some of his other reporting, an ass, but he has certainly come through with this story.

It's unimaginable to me that a child would be made to cry and be ostracized due to her non-religion. This child actually made an effort to be respectful to the clearly out-of-place religion in her school, and still was harassed. No wonder her father is so angry.

In other times the federal government would be investigating, but this is not to be expected now because the current Bush mal-administration are as much at fault as the school and town portrayed.

Because the federal government could care less, we handle these types of issues with heaps of civil litigation. This case should attract the best legal minds in the nation: it deserves everything that can be brought to bear. That town and that school system and its administrators need to be plastered with lawsuits. They should lose their jobs and be disgraced. It needs to be shaken back into the present century.

My hope is, in the end, this brave young woman will end up owning every alleged adult who has aided in her horrific mistreatment.

ps: did anyone notice? Just across from the entrance to the school - is a church! Where I live we have such a thing as a "drug free zone" around schools. For this town, a "religion free zone" is needed.

Actually, I rather like the term "religion free zone". Time to make some bumper stickers.

83. Christopher Hitchens on Religion

Comment #39838 by k1mgy on May 12, 2007 at 4:47 am

>>What was particularly refreshing was how >>deferrential the two religious guests were towards >>him.

That was an act. I was totally convinced that this patronizing was nothing less than trying to appear "christian", when common sense says that Haggardists such as Munsey really hate his guts.

84. Christopher Hitchens on Religion

Comment #39756 by k1mgy on May 11, 2007 at 9:25 pm

Stephan Munsey attempted to hide behind the innocence of his daughter, and Hitchens (quite astutely) did not take the bait nor was he deterred. Hitchen's complete evisceration of Munsey, not only for this argument, but each and every other one, should serve as a model for how to go about these kinds of debates.

If Munsey let a more rational view enter his world he might well return to his 10,000 or so mega-flock as a somewhat wilted figure. Instead, it's likely Munsey will be further entrenched and invigorated by the experience. Yet if Hitchens reached even one person who otherwise might have left their brain at the door, all the better.


I despise Hitchens for his pro-US mal-administration stance (which may hopefully be changing as time goes on), but the relationship is now hate-love. He's got it right and, in the tradition of Richard Dawkins and the others, is delivering the message clearly and dispassionately to a nation and world who are desperate for a way out of its own insanity. Some just don't know it yet.

A lot of people will need de-programming and support groups to, as one caller to the On Point programme stated, "grow up". As one who has, I want to be among those who can help.

There is a way out and the world, and life, is all the fuller and more wondrous as a result.

85. Lou Dobbs w/ Hitchens on Al Sharpton's Bigoted Remark

Comment #39452 by k1mgy on May 10, 2007 at 5:25 pm

I can tell you, from the scene of Willard Mitt Romney's ascendancy here in Massachusetts, that Romney is a Fraud.

He stated, before running for governor, that he was "just looking for a race to enter". A fine reason to enter public service.

The real reason that he became Massachusetts governor is that his church wants more political power and this state offered a springboard to national attention. The Mormons have wanted to install a president for a very long time, and Mr. Olympics is their dream candidate.

As a Mormon governor, Republican Willard Mitt cut funding for social programs, cut local aid which is essential for schools, and cut money for public safety. During his watch the public transport system has nearly gone into bankruptcy - they have had to sell off land to stay afloat. He spent most of his time away and when criticized claimed that he was not taking a salary (multi-millionaire that he is, he symbolically refused a paycheck).

Not know for the best of luck, just after Romney cut a Republican deal, demanding our state police officers act as US immigration agents to go after all the "illegals", it was revealed that Romney's own lawn service (he doesn't take care of his own property) was staffed with undocumented workers.

His claim to fame: the Big Dig (our multi-Billion dollar highway system), which under his absentee watch claimed the life of a commuter when a tunnel collapsed. Romney rushed back - from a "meeting" in Utah - to don a construction hat and appear to be in charge.

Willard Mitt said early on that he would keep his religion out of his public life, and then turned to when it was time to promote various Republican and religious causes such as restrictions on legal abortion.

Finally, our state had enough of him, and elected a decent Democrat. Romney, breaking with tradition and decency, was the first outgoing governor - ever - to refuse to attend his successors inaugural.

He is a nothing candidate and, considering a demonstrated inability to keep religion out of his politics, a candidate to avoid.

86. Is Christianity Good for the World?

Comment #39165 by k1mgy on May 10, 2007 at 5:45 am

I can only parse one of the statements that Wilson made. His response is dripping with plenty else.

Wilson states, "The gospel makes the world better through Good News, not through guilt trips or good advice."

How's that?

First, allowing a generous assumption that any of this god nonsense has a shred of credence, please show how the world is a better place because of "the gospel"? It surely makes the world that much more ignorant and subjective, but hardly "better. Convince us that subjecting (and destroying) ancient cultures is a good thing? Fill us in on how blowing up abortion clinics and murdering physicians is A-OK. Issue your apologetic for the pain and human suffering that is the guilt put upon innocent children who are forced to attend "Hell House", a charming manifestation of the "good news". Fill us in on how great it is that, because some idiot thinks condoms are bad - and every sperm is sacred - AIDS is spreading and resulting in untold human suffering.

Where's all that "good news" now? But, never mind that: who needs it? As example, my life isn't falling apart. It's as full as it can be. I live a decent, moral life and actually follow most of the basic commandments that Wilson's religion sets out (with the exception of the god parts). I don't need threats. I have scores of friends who live in the same manner. They need not thump bibles nor "convert" others to function.

Second piece of advice to Wilson: avoid following one fallacy with yet another... or perhaps as an author and philosopher he's just in fantasyland. Suggesting that "the gospel" provides "good news not guilt trips" is completely sidestepping the underlying threat: "the wages of sin is death".

Now, is not lying one of the sins? Lying is also being less than honest, or even deceptive, when you should know better. Winning a cause of morality via deception is like creating democracy with bombs. If the "good news" it that much of a mess that Wilson needs to deceive in order to lure, I can surely understand the compromise.

Wilson still has a good deal: according to the same gospel, he's already forgiven!

Wilson has spun a nice attempt at logic in an attempt to discredit Hitchen's arguments, but did not go at it with the alleged credibility of his own side. Why? Because there's very little to draw upon, and he knows it.

As a former police officer I attended many court sessions and in one, most memorable, I heard a Judge admonish a defense attorney bluntly: "You have some evidence? Show it to me, or SIT DOWN."

The defense attorney, thinking clearly for a moment (for he had no evidence, actually) gently resumed his seat.

So, Mr. Wilson, your chair awaits.

87. A Bunch of Monkeys

Comment #38429 by k1mgy on May 8, 2007 at 4:44 am

Brilliant, but I disagree that "lower" forms of consciousness fail to seek out "happiness". Perhaps it's so that every form of life does, and with happiness measured in survival and the joy of the moment?

Perhaps the difference as manifested by humans is that our level of awareness has, for those with the intelligence and wherewithal, allowed access to enormous destructive power.

The question "How could you be so stupid as to ram an airplane into a skyscraper?" answers itself. When one battles religion, one is also battling ignorance. So I think that the battle undertaken here, and in other places, is under the title Atheism, yet is just as much a battle against ignorance.

"I'd rather have a bottle in front of me than a frontal lobotomy." goes the aphorism. I've avoided both, however the bottle is not a bad idea. Mostly, living in a sea of stupidity is annoying, but there are occasions it becomes overwhelmingly depressing. Countering it is sometimes exhausting and I wonder sometimes if it's worth the candle.

88. God Exists. A Formula Proves it.

Comment #37690 by k1mgy on May 5, 2007 at 1:19 pm

What a pathetic piece of "news" "reporting". They must have needed some filler.

Not once was a contrary view given. Not once was the "professor" asked to lay out his "evidence". All we got was a bunch of preachers.

What sort of journalists are these TV outlets hiring?

89. Richard Dawkins in the Time 100

Comment #37152 by k1mgy on May 3, 2007 at 1:33 pm

>>Concerning the big questions, the Bible advises >>us to be hot or cold but not lukewarm. Whatever >>the merit of his ideas, Richard Dawkins is not
>>lukewarm.

Oh, well then, I feel instructed. Thanks so much for that. All from (pastor) Michael Behe, who has sadly thrown any scientific training he may possess to the wind - irrefutably and totally discredited in the Dover, PA "Intelligent Design" case. I love what the Judge had to say, "We therefore find that Professor Behe's claim for irreducible complexity has been refuted in peer-reviewed research papers and has been rejected by the scientific community at large.".

There are other gems from the case and enough to bury Behe and the rest of his delusional ilk. I'm not sure how much stock I'd place on being awarded a place on the list, considering the "quality" of the presenter. Perhaps it's the magazine's way of saying "and oh, by the way, F you".


Now, a few questions:

What does your "bible" say about blowing up other nations on no provocation and on manufactured evidence?

What does it say about harassing and marginalizing other human beings because of their genetically-driven or personal-choice-based sexual preference?

What does it say about a government that would illegally kidnap and torture innocent people?

What does it say about illegal spying, about graft, theft, and misuse of office?

What does it say about subverting justice for the want of politics?

In every area, the current US mal-administration, allegedly driven by "the bible", has violated not only the clear dictates therein, but the basic stuff that it doesn't take a preacher to figure out.

Behe, ends his introduction to Professor Dawkins with a nice piece of instruction from "the bible" (as if we all know which of the hundreds of them he means) so we can be properly oriented on how Dr. Dawkins should be viewed.

To that I'd say: get your "christian" compatriots to clean up their act, clean up your own, and then you may have some credibility to pontificate.

In the end, perhaps I should have just skipped all the words and said what I really felt: "Behe, blow it out your ass".

90. Believe in God Spray

Comment #36276 by k1mgy on April 30, 2007 at 6:45 pm

You can tell something about a product as to how it is positioned with others. So along with the instant belief in god spray we find...

"Cat Butt Gum": Kiss my ass attitude, kitty-style!

"Totally Wasted Gum" , captioned appropriately, "Oh god, I am so totally wasted"

and

"Lookin' good for Jesus Lip Balm", which is purported to "Returns lips to near virgin quality!"

91. Scene Caused by Christian Group at NYC Stage Show

Comment #36059 by k1mgy on April 30, 2007 at 4:35 am

Liveliest Crib has offered a comment I think we all ought to re-read. What an excellent summation of the problem and, I think, ways of solving it: education, and confrontation.

Puncture the fear like a balloon. Good show.

92. Scene Caused by Christian Group at NYC Stage Show

Comment #35993 by k1mgy on April 29, 2007 at 7:35 pm

Ohnhai suggests, "Don't Hate. Pity" and I find myself agreeing in principle, and I suppose there is a way, perhaps just allowing time to pass and nerve endings to settle, where the instinct to lash out is less immediate because the threat that launched it no longer present.

Or is it no longer present?

What of the next performer, whether atheist or just of another religious stripe, when they, like this one, are assaulted in equal measure or to a greater extent? At what point do we, as members of society concerned with a stable social order, choose to do something? When someone is dead?

Perhaps, this day, my own nerve endings are a bit tattered as on the radio just yesterday I heard stories and testimony of two former prisoners of the current US mal-administration. Both, young men, had been maliciously "sold" as "terrorists" (there are apparently bounties offered in Pakistan, where this occurred). They were taken in the night to a US air base where they were deprived of even the most basic things such as light, sleep, clothing, food, warmth. They were interrogated in ways that caused my stomach to wretch. If even a scintilla of what they say is true, then it's no wonder to me why the current US mal-administration is loathed throughout the world and by many within its own borders; many who love their nation so much as to have their hearts bleed when these stories come to light.

The two were among over 200 of the 350 currently residing in complete legal limbo in the US's Guantanamo torture facility who were recently released simply because, finally, it was admitted that there was absolutely no evidence that they had done anything in the slightest wrong. But, rather than their incarcerators and interrogators standing up like civilized men and women, and admitting their blunder, instead our government's fine fleet of lawyers attempted to force these innocents to sign documents which would absolve the US from its crimes and, most nastily, pledging the victim to not engage in "terrorism" once released. If there might be any more substantiation needed to convince people that this mal-administration has created more "terrorists" than they have possibly, and probably, brought to justice, it is this.

Incidentally, these many innocents have been deported to far away places and are not allowed, despite their innocence, from ever entering the US. Hence, one of the young men, who was a student at an American university and who had a great interest and love of our country, will be put out of the way so that the cameras and news will not, each day, recount their tales for all Americans to read. What a pity.

A reader might think this is all irrelevant, but I relate all of this because, quite frankly, I am convinced that these acts of barbarism on the part of a nation happen for just the same reason that prompted (at least one) religious wacko to attack a courageous and brilliant performer. It's an extreme and narrow world and life view that is fed by religion and, as Richard Dawkins and others warn, it is a growing danger.

What's worse is that it could well happen again. Why? Because we, through inaction, allow it to or pity it away. Not one has stood up and said NO MORE, or at least in sufficient numbers and with an unequivocal message that can not be ignored, and in the case of Guantanamo, and in the far lesser yet equally chilling case of the attack on this artist, someone ought to.

It is pitiful that a deranged individual would do such a thing and there is, I think, a part of everyone's thinking that might want to reach out in helpful compassion. The person may need medical assistance to overcome an organic brain disease, or the help of trained professionals to be extricated from a religion that has them so gripped they do some very foolish things in its name.

But there is still this act, and all the others, that cry out for someone to say: NO MORE, and in my view, no amount of pity can answer this need, nor should it.

93. Scene Caused by Christian Group at NYC Stage Show

Comment #35975 by k1mgy on April 29, 2007 at 4:28 pm

DavyB writes, "It was a choir group from a public school".

If DavyB means "public" in the UK sense, then my ire is not further aroused. However in the US, "public school" means the national (still mostly secular) school system. Here, a "private" school, such as an academy, can be and are operated by all manner of wackos, and there's little the state can do if they meet the basic educational requirements (easy).

If it's a public school, I'd like to know which one has a "choir group", so I may be certain to avoid it.

As for the individual having issues: we ALL have issues. But when they spill over (quite literally) on another, then those issues become worthy of some serious attention.

94. New Noah's Ark ready to sail

Comment #35972 by k1mgy on April 29, 2007 at 3:47 pm

The Dutch were the first foreigners allowed into Japan and this - because they neither attempted to take the place over nor indoctrinate the inhabitants (generally, this would land your noggin in a platter anyway).

Then, in character, came the Admiral with his gunboats - which is how 'Murca does things.

Too bad the Netherlanders are ruining their previously excellent international reputation by this asswad.

95. Scene Caused by Christian Group at NYC Stage Show

Comment #35970 by k1mgy on April 29, 2007 at 3:39 pm

Philos writes, "The audience walked out because of the harsh language and graphic content; that's it."

No, that's not it. And, what graphic content? In your mind, brother.

Did you attend the performance? Did you see the video, or are you just blathering here.

Walking out is perfectly OK. Destroying someone's life's work and putting them in fear is NOT. This is not a matter of belief, or not. It's a matter of human decency and in this case - the law.

So tell us that this is unacceptable to you, or explain why you might think that what they did, over the word Fuck, is A-OK.

96. Scene Caused by Christian Group at NYC Stage Show

Comment #35967 by k1mgy on April 29, 2007 at 3:32 pm

Mike is quite a fellow and the film of this incident left me in tears. Both of rage, and the way that he handled himself. I wrote him the day after this incident was published (by him: the media has ignored this story) suggesting that he should handle the situation aggressively.

The perpetrator was caught on film, as were several others. The fact that it was a group action suggests a conspiracy. The crime is criminal threatening with intent to do bodily harm (the second part of this is shown in court when the victim testifies that they felt their life in danger). Anyone in that audience could have prevented these people from leaving the theatre while awaiting the police. Then it would be time to take names, addresses, and see if any of them crank it up into a nice disorderly conduct charge along with others (the others requiring investigation and indictment), for a swift ride to the Cambridge Police lockup.

He also has a civil case for destruction of his property and the penalties there could be quite severe. As an artist, who had the only copy of his work destroyed, there is present and substantial future value.

In short, Mike could have had several of these creeps in jail and facing criminal charges along with a civil lawsuit. It is still in his power to do so.

Being a performer does not suddenly change the rules. You walk out of the performance. You don't attack the performer or his work. But apparently, being a "Christian" does, at least in the vacuous minds of these faithful.

I still don't know why he appears reluctant to face off with these people. Reading of the perpetrator's response, they seemed clearly, to use the word properly, "un-repentant". A wake-up call is needed. Severe and swift. If these cretins are members of a church, all the better. Drag them in as well to see if they're complicit.
I plead with Mike that if he did not make a stand then this would just embolden more of these alleged "christians" to do likewise, and worse.

Having thought on this, I would even say that, although Mike (and his audience) was a victim, his choice to let this go is a step back.

Of course, had I been in the same situation, there'd be a few of these assholes being bailed out and facing a trial. Plus, I'd own them.

This story has particular import as I live not far away and am very supportive of the arts and for freedom of expression. I attended the Maplethorpe exhibit at the ICA, not because I had a particular interest in his work, but simply to show support and to stand up to assholes.

I think Mike ought to know that there are many who are behind him and, at least in my case, would love to see him take this for what it is: an assault.

If that sounds retributive, so be it. Clearly, this bunch asked for it.

97. Pundit Christopher Hitchens picks a fight in book, 'God is Not Great'

Comment #35857 by k1mgy on April 29, 2007 at 4:43 am

For his unabashed support of the current US mal-administration's oil (and religious) war, I offer Hitchens no quarter, but on this book I'd roll out the red carpet and set out a hearty and good-spirited meal. A true love-hate relationship.

There's some good news in this combination, for Hitchen's book may well have influence: in the rattle heads who march forth in our national politics with a bible. Discrediting this bunch, which at the moment seems to represent the core of the mal-administration's regime, most surely will assist in dissolving it.

So perhaps Hitchens, by serving to spray a little more weed killer into religion, has helped to undermine the same system that is feeding the war. With this thought I cheer, and lift an elbow with a hearty, "here, here!"

98. New Noah's Ark ready to sail

Comment #35770 by k1mgy on April 28, 2007 at 8:03 pm

"Huibers said he hopes the project will renew interest in Christianity in the Netherlands, where churchgoing has fallen dramatically in the past 50 years. He also plans to visit major cities in Belgium and Germany."

Which sparked what I think is a brilliant idea: BIBLICAL THEME SAIL AROUND CAPE HORN

Yes, bring the lame, the halt, and the blind. Lay your hand on the Ark, and sail away from a putrid, debauched godless landscape to the fresh open sea and all the thrills, adventure, and poop scooping that awaits.

Just two thoughts I'd add for for your send-off: First, "don't travel west" and second, "don't come back".

99. Mormonism: A Racket Becomes a Religion

Comment #35599 by k1mgy on April 27, 2007 at 7:26 pm

Here in the US, we might want to take note of the fact that a current (naturally) Republican candidate for president in 2008, Willard Mitt Romney, is a practicing Mormon and apparently a mucky-muck in the religion. It seems so much of a mucky-muck that I am convinced a very large and ugly stone temple was constructed just for him, not all that far from his own residence (the one where - because he's too important to mow his own damn lawn - hired a service to do it for him but, as blunders go, it was revealed that the service hired illegal immigrants to tend to his lawn manicure!).

Built on Belmont Hill, over the objection of actual people who live in the neighborhood and who put up with a much smaller and more compatible building, this monument was constructed as - in my view - an arrogant display of power. It is massive and imposing compared to the small meeting hall that apparently served the faithful just fine, prior. They don't need it, but you can be sure they have plenty of cash and political power to ram it through. Think "tithe".

Topping off this mess is a gabriel character pointing his trumpet directly towards the State House. This steeple was also forced in over objections - the pleading of actual residents who live in the neighborhood. You know, the ones who pay property and other taxes to fund services such as schools, police, fire, ambulance, water. It must have been quite an insult to lose several court fights over the steeple to a bunch that live to suck off the public tit, tax and obligation free.

All this horridness just before Romney was installed (so he could begin campaigning for president). He was, in a phrase, the "absentee governor".

If you don't know already, I am still pissed at the way these charlatans did their deed. I give the building the finger every time I pass it. It's ugly and disgusting, and for the residents, old Gabriel gives the finger back by the nice shadow of steeple, "prophet" and trumpet that makes a swath of shadow across the lawns, and homes in the area.

Romney was (merciful for us) defeated when he ran against Ted Kennedy for Senate some years ago, then went back to Bain Capital to oversee the destruction of the economy and lay off workers (another of his reputations), re-surfacing to be installed as yet one of a long terrible series of Republican (caretaker) governors of Massachusetts. Massachusetts made a huge mistake voting for this bozo and we corrected it in short order.

Willard Mitt is, in these parts, known as the "fraud" governor. Not showing up and basically doing the same croney-based practices of your predecessor; breaking every campaign promise; and basically performing as an incompetent hack might have led to the moniker.

Willard Mitt epitomizes the phrase "flip flop", and has a strong and long reputation to say whatever it is that will please his audience. There is the famous visit to the National Rifle Association recently, where the Fraud Governor claimed he was quite a hunter, owned a gun, and was just one of the boys. Fact is, he wasn't, didn't, and isn't.

Here, he was known for slashing and gutting social programs, not unlike his national equivalent. Just before he left office, it's alleged that he stalled the infamous INS raid on an illegal worker sweat shop so the mess would fall in the new (Democratic) governor's lap. It did, and it was awful. Romney, sport that he is, was the first governor of Massachusetts to refuse to attend the new incoming governor's inauguration. This will be a blotch on our long history of aggressive but in the end decent politics.

I'd say he's a hateful SOB.

Now, he is kissing up to the far-right republican "christian" politicos in the US and this raises deep concerns. He pledged to keep his "faith" out of his governing decisions, yet clearly acted in accord with them when it came to many social issues. It's clear that he will bring his bizarre religion into national office, and this for America will surely spell the completion of the disaster that the current mal-administration has well underway.

If people didn't know that Romney actually believes this crap that Hitchens so well documents, well, now they do. If you didn't know of his reputation here, perhaps this little screed helps.

Like Ashkroft, who was a tongue-talker, and Bush who is clearly deluded, Willard Mitt is yet another horror waiting to happen.

Stay clear.

100. The Video: Bill O'Reilly Interviews Richard Dawkins

Comment #34320 by k1mgy on April 23, 2007 at 7:44 pm

I expected the combination of Richard Dawkins and Bill-O (as we refer to this creature here in the US) to be as volatile as rocket fuel. Instead, Bill-O bloviated on as usual while Dr. Dawkins maintained his cool through it all. If it was a struggle for Dr. Dawkins, the most difficult part must have been in remembering to communicate in grade school English, a requirement for Bill-O's dwindling audience. Gutteral and grunting would have been even more effective, but certainly a stretch.

The interview was far too short and too well controlled, but at the very least brought forth a good representation for Atheists everywhere:

Yes, all the good beer-drinkin', chaw-spittin', waddlin', swaggerin', Wal-Mart shoppin', god-lovin' 'Murcan's in trailer parks across this great land (plus the white house) got to see a real live Atheist, and as a bonus viewed the back of his head which surprisingly revealed no horns! By gorry Betty May, he ain't no monster after all!