Mike Pilewski writes about life, politics and culture in the United States
For years, American politicians from all parties have talked about a “threat” from Iran’s uranium-enrichment program. So now that Iran has reached a provisional agreement with the permanent members of the UN Security Council and Germany to keep it at non-threatening levels, who’s not happy? To Iran, the deal will mean a (conditional) end to the international sanctions imposed in … >>
Imagine that the basic needs of everyone on Earth were taken care of. What would society be like? American futurist Jacque Fresco, who turned 98 last week, has spent his life thinking about this. Needs are at the root of capitalism. You have something that somebody else needs; that person has something that you need; you trade these things directly … >>
Democracy is a wonderful thing, but it’s not perfect. The majority can always intimidate, discriminate against or simply ignore the minority. As Kermit the Frog used to sing, “It’s not easy being green.” It’s tough enough to be different, and even tougher if you’re not accepted for it. Small minorities with obvious needs — the blind and hearing-impaired, for example … >>
Haufenwolke, a reader of this column, says I don’t deserve to be nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. So I’ve decided to step up my efforts. Like most people, I wish for peace on Earth on December 24. But wishing alone won’t stop the inconsiderate behavior of others. Actions must follow. So here are 20 simple suggestions that could be … >>
When we were schoolkids, our teachers loved to tell us a little white lie: that anybody in America could grow up to be president. We didn’t believe them, because they couldn’t name any female or black presidents. However, we did believe George W. Bush in 2001, when he told students graduating from Yale University: “To those of you who received … >>