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Posts by JohnP  

Joined: 8 Sep 2007 / Male ♂
Last Post: 20 Feb 2010
Threads: -
Posts: Total: 210 / In This Archive: 155
From: Back in the US. Yay.
Speaks Polish?: No, love to learn
Interests: Lots! bits of foil, shiny objects...

Displayed posts: 155 / page 3 of 6
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JohnP   
28 Sep 2008
News / Are Christians prosecuted in Poland (and Europe in general)? [53]

Evolution can be observed in the field and in the laboratory. The origin of life, as far as I'm aware, can't be.

While it is arguable that evolution can be observed in the laboratory (genetic mutation leading to extinction of the test subjects rather than adaptation to their environment is hardly the same as "evolution" IMHO) it is a different discussion. Ultimately, the irony to me is that evolution is so often paraded out as somehow a "counter" against creation, when evolution does not explain the origin of life nor attempt to.

Ultimately the origins of life cannot be proven at this point, whether one believes it to be the result of chemicals (which somehow, were in the right combinations in the right place, etc etc to make an organism with a DNA program complex enough that not only conducts all the processes of life, but just happens to allow it to adapt) or if you believe these were intentionally arranged.

Personally, I don't see fire next to iron ore producing steel as evidence my truck was not built by a factory, either, but of course I understand such is not so simple, and that is a decision we each have to make.

There simply isn't enough evidence to teach that any of these options was or was not the origin of life,
and more importantly (and on topic) teaching one or the other, so long as it is not exclusive of other theories, should be ok, but teaching one unproven theory at the expense of another when neither has a preponderance of evidence to support it or at least disprove the other....well, is not education. Education should be keyed toward those who can think for themselves rather than simply believing whatever the state spoon feeds them this week because it happens to be the current dogma....

This has gotten so off-topic, but mostly I feel one theory should not be taught as "correct" and another not, when neither has been proven. To do so, is to give credence to that which has not earned it.
JohnP   
28 Sep 2008
News / Are Christians prosecuted in Poland (and Europe in general)? [53]

This is the point-both of you mention evolution, one even claiming it to be a "proven fact" (it isn't, even though there is evidence to support it) as somehow a counter balance to "creation". The two are not and have never been mutually exclusive.

Evolution seeks to explain the apparent adaptation of various organisms to their environments, not how life began which is an entirely different thing. We could argue about this all day long, but there are many who so want to believe evolution (and on the other end of the spectrum, creation) that they fail to see that evolution has never, once, ever been a theory which seeks to explain the initial beginnings of life (even Charles Darwin...was not an Atheist...)

That hypothesis is called abiogenesis, whose supporters have discovered quite a few interesting things in nature but have so far been unsuccessful at creating life from its components, even intentionally.

For that matter, even evolution has not been observed actually *occurring* although many suppose certain creatures must have derived from others.
Personally, I think the main stream science establishment will support whatever is in their fiscal best interests. My sister is a scientist in the genetics/biology field and this is something even she will quite gladly tell you. That, and that "broken English" is the true language of science ;)

Sorry...rambling there. Until one side is able to create a living organism under natural conditions, from "scratch", and prove that the *first* time this happened could not have had any outside influences, creation will never be disproved. Abiogenesis has made many inroads into the mechanisms of life, DNA, etc. but to prove it is the source of life, rather than simply the mechanism that they are studying, would require proof that not only do the various compounds involved create viable organisms naturally, but viable organisms that also *improve* themselves when faced with adverse conditions, or "adapt", rather than degenerate and die, which has so far been the result of all attempts at observing actual evolution in the laboratory.

So, what all this means, is that while I believe in creation, I also do not see where this conflicts with evolution, either. Abiogenesis supporters like to attach it to the coattails of evolution, but it does not in fact belong there, and is its own hypothesis with ultimately the same evidence behind it as creation.

So....again, the schools could just say "we don't know" and follow with "here is the science we are using to find out...."

Claiming the government (including the school systems) know what happened when in fact they do not....is simple indoctrination, not education. Just because a person who is a Christian (or Muslim, or Jew, or....) believes something, doesn't mean it is completely wrong.
JohnP   
28 Sep 2008
News / Are Christians prosecuted in Poland (and Europe in general)? [53]

As far as teaching creationism in schools vice some other theory, I think I would be happier if the schools simply said they didn't know. So far no experiments performed by those studying the abiogenesis hypothesis have conclusively demonstrated successful creation of life, nor proof that it wasn't at some point created. So....they really don't know. So while they don't teach creationism at school, I also believe equally unproven hypotheses should also not be taught as "fact", but rather leave the student with the tools he or she needs to make decisions. Which is what I think education should be all about, rather than indoctrination for one theory over another equally unproven one...

Sorry for the ramble, it just is interesting to me at any rate.
It's likely many of the politicians most wishing to be thought "religious" often do so for the effect they believe it will have on some voters, IMHO.

I could be wrong, of course. At any rate I disagree with the idea certain religions (Christianity for instance) should exclude someone from public office, so long as the person's religious beliefs apply to him or her, and aren't imposed on the entire nation. In my view, excluding Christianity (Catholicism, for instance) is persecution, and prejudice in favor of the Atheist religion....

I've been wrong before, but that's how it all seems to me.
JohnP   
28 Sep 2008
News / Are Christians prosecuted in Poland (and Europe in general)? [53]

Christian should be kept quiet when they don't want their religion remain in the private domain.

Not sure wrt the EU, but you are off-base wrt the U.S. If anything it is becoming more difficult to be a Christian here, much as the above. Presidents are ridiculed for giving praises to God (whichever they happen to claim) and courts have ordered crosses removed from war memorials, at the request of (non-veteran) atheist protesters who sue, and teachers lose jobs if they mention God in the class room.

Whether this is right or not I have my own opinions over, but this idea that the US is controlled by "religious fanatics" couldn't be farther from the truth. If anything the government is a bit too "anti" religion here lately.

Sorry for the side trip,
back to our regularly scheduled programming.
JohnP   
20 Sep 2008
News / Eat fish you idiot! (EU massive media campaign in Poland) [54]

Sasha,
Funny you mention that.
What fish are your favorites in Russia (I'm sure we have some of the same kinds of fish as there, or at least similar)

I saved and saved, and for my honeymoon went on a cruise to Alaska (with my wife, obviously) and she almost wouldn't eat with me I took such a liking to the stuff. I liked the hot smoked salmon better than the squishy cold-smoked lox version. She does not like fish, but will gladly eat things I'm not keen on (menudo, for instance....yeccchhh....she is of Mexican descent and grew up with it)

I probably reeked of fish. I still love good salmon.
I used to catch wild perch, sunfish, and trout as a boy, and still quite enjoy those as well.
Never been big on shellfish though. Just plain, regular fish.

John P.
JohnP   
20 Sep 2008
News / Eat fish you idiot! (EU massive media campaign in Poland) [54]

While it doesn't specifically apply to me as an American, we get the after effects (we import some fish etc. from the EU) bureaucracy is seldom a good thing.

I don't like it, and wouldn't like it here, either.

I do have a few friends over there, but I'd not heard about this campaign from them.

John P.
JohnP   
13 Sep 2008
Life / I am in Poland on a tourist visa and have been here for 2 years.. [53]

If by this, you mean, "give them free education and medical care, and give free passes in criminal cases," or when they are caught by border patrol/immigration enforcement, give them a ticket with a court date and tell them to be there, prior to releasing them never to be seen again.... you are right.

I've been considering trying to get myself labeled an "illegal immigrant" here in the US, so I can go to college....and be guaranteed a loan by lenders afraid I will call them "racists".

John P.
JohnP   
4 Sep 2008
News / Jews use American congress to pressure Polish government to PAY [63]

Careful Crow, don't laugh too much...there's no doubt some money grubbing outfit just waiting in the wings watching to see if Poland pays this latest group of whiners, to send THEIR request on behalf of Muslims in Kosovo or something, to Serbia.

It's all greed, IMHO. Groups trying to get money from something that didn't actually happen to them. There are still some people here in the US that think every white person here owes them personally because 150 years ago people had slaves. Regardless of if the white person's family only got here 60 years ago.

As long as people pay, more will line up to ask.

John P.
JohnP   
4 Sep 2008
News / Jews use American congress to pressure Polish government to PAY [63]

"unfortunately" simply because, were they alive, we'd know exactly who to forward these nonstop requests to. Most of the people getting the money weren't even born during the holocaust, anyway.

And yes. Reply to Congress' nice little letter and say "No.". They need to hear it from someone.

John P.
JohnP   
4 Sep 2008
News / Jews use American congress to pressure Polish government to PAY [63]

I wouldn't take it too much to heart. Most of us in the US don't have a very high opinion of our own Congress at the moment, regardless of how we vote. It seems this latest session is full of some of the most petty, senseless stuff I've ever seen, and that would just be one more example. They also think Congress is needed to regulate baseball. So a Jewish group saw opportunity to increase its coffers by getting Congress to send a letter for them, and Congress said "sure we'll do it".

Simply tell them "no" and be done with it, otherwise they would be armed with something more serious than a request. Congress won't be offended even if the Jewish group is. Otherwise what's next-asking other Jews for money, because Jews did some of the operations within the camps? It has to end somewhere, and unfortunately most of the guilty parties are already dead. It makes no sense punishing future generations who had nothing to do with it, and creating a new wrong, in my opinion.

Just my thoughts.

John P.
JohnP   
3 Sep 2008
Food / Favorite Pierogi? [56]

They are hard to find where I live and I haven't a clue how to make them from scratch; so far the plain potato and cheese ones. Haven't really tried any other ones. You folks are making me hungry.

John P.
JohnP   
3 Sep 2008
News / Abkhazia and South Ossetia are independent states now! Poland reaction? [236]

Now we're in Iraq and Afghanistan, sure Saddam in Iraq, and the Taliban in Afghanistan were a$$holes, but the quality of life is worse in many parts because of this mismanaged fiasco, all hell has broken loose without us or anyone else showing any know-how to turn the situation around, we just have to wait for people to calm down...

link please? I would argue this is false, especially wrt Iraq. Things have been going well enough that there are already talks with the Iraqi government on when we can pull out, and they are running a large part of the country themselves already. With ANY war, journalists can go find a bombed out rubble pile and film it, implying that is the entire country. It also isn't difficult to find someone who will say just about anything-and that isn't even just in Iraq.

Your US is like a "live cadaver" and it's sponsored by Russian money to surviving.
I can imagine what will happen if Russia withdraws their money at this time.

This is true, realistically, of almost all countries that participate in the world market. However Russia doesn't have the lion share of investment in the US, nor would Russia likely cripple the US economy by withdrawing, although for sure we'd feel it. Worse would be if Japan, China, Saudi Arabia-those pulled their money.

Likewise, Russia would also suffer if everyone pulled their money from Russia. So, it's not saying much, really.

Russia government is working very hard to make life for russians much better, but there are always "bad boys" who do not want to see Russia in power. They always are trying to set it up with something. The main of these guys are US and GB, which always dreams "to put its dirty and bloody hands" into Russia recources. They never stopped doing this.

If you mean buying Russian made products, yes, we do. However, I would remind you that the Republic of Georgia does not qualify as "Russia resources". You are correct, however, in that not everyone wants Russia to be in power, too many people remember the last time "Russia was in power". Stalin was by far smarter (IMHO) than Hitler and played the chess game well, unfortunately many many people suffered in order for him to make USSR "great". In the US we've walked over people in the past, and are paying reparations to their great great grandchildren in some cases. Russia, however, is not so benevolent from what I've seen.

John P.
JohnP   
28 Aug 2008
News / Abkhazia and South Ossetia are independent states now! Poland reaction? [236]

celinski:Right for Russia. As they are monopilize energy supplyWhat is wrong with it? Do you accuse us for having oils and gas?

Personally I see nothing wrong with it. Good for Russia. The only reason it concerns me is it would seem Putin wants Russia to control ALL the oil and gas. Which would be a de facto move to control Europe (again) this time through its fuel supply.

It would be the same if Russia or America or Britain etc. wanted to control all the food supply. It is a method of control that requires not a single shot fired, while still technically enslaving those nations which rely on those resources.

John P.
JohnP   
28 Aug 2008
News / Abkhazia and South Ossetia are independent states now! Poland reaction? [236]

Who is saying for us to get involved(?) I don't think it's come to that yet, as things are calming down apparently. It bears watching-and just because Russia (or China or...) is big doesn't mean it's never worthwhile to fight. I do agree it is best to choose one's battles, however sometimes the decision shouldn't be made on the size of the adversary but over what is to be gained/lost by either action or inaction.

I just said I think it disengenuous to "recognize" the freedom of portions of another country only *after* you had invaded them. Kindof like if we recognized Qebec as an independent nation *after* attacking Canada, occupying Qebec and marching toward Montreal.

It's the principle of the thing.

John P.
JohnP   
27 Aug 2008
News / Abkhazia and South Ossetia are independent states now! Poland reaction? [236]

I do not claim to know all the details here, but IMHO it is a bad move, or at least a bit disengenuous, for Russia to "recognize" the two only AFTER invading them. It is also not ridiculous for Saakashvili to believe Russia means or meant to annex Georgia. Until *after* they invaded, S. Ossetia was at least officially, part of Georgia. It also bears pointing out that if simply freeing a portion of Georgia from Georgians and putting Russians in control of it were the only goal, why did Russia's army continue onward instead of fortifying the border and drawing a line, so to speak?

Georgia may be viewed as having started it by some (I'm not really sure-the squabbling with S. Ossetia has been ongoing, apparently) but Russia responded to "excessive force" by the Georgians with even MORE excessive force. Georgians nor Russians are IMHO evil, but from my POV it looks like the schoolyard scenario of two small children arguing over which side of the sandbox they have, only to have a full grown man take sides with one, beat the @#$ out of the other, then take the whole thing for himself. Russia has always been good at the chess game, now is no different.

I hear the Kuznetsov sailed...and I know Putin would LOVE to have some new ports, and control the supply to one of the few potential alternatives for Russian oil to Europe.

Nothing like taking over a competitor. It works that way in businesses, too.

John P.
JohnP   
7 Aug 2008
News / America: Take your missile base and shove it! [116]

Argh! That was a ridiculous marathon of going through old messages. Please be more consistent in the future as it’s really unfair for you to make such accusations and blanket statements that I’ve either dispelled or simply don’t match to your previous arguments.

Something tells me I struck a nerve....
Many of your arguments in your above post read (to me anyway) along the lines of "but oranges CAN'T be, well, orange. Look at this green apple!"

ok well i'm not british (still enjoying the same pinch of cope I’d dipped when I started this longass reply thank you very much) although i was on the underground during the 7/7 events and while i don't want to get into that on this matter i do find your mocking tone inappropriate at best with regards to the situation in the u.k. it's like your actually happy their rights are being overrun just cause the same is happening to u.s. citizens. thanks for showing your colours on that one johnp.

Well, you aren't American, at least (Americans do not write "colours" but leave out the "u" in US English). If you are dipping cope, well, make sure you have good dental coverage; nor is there any mocking tone in my post. You read too much into what I write. What I have done is point out the irony that your posts and others are quite quick to point out your perceived losses of freedom in the United States, or perhaps a general perception that we Americans are "root'n toot'n" folk, perhaps a little less "civilized" than people wherever you are really from.

You mention where you think I am or am not on the intelligence scale etc. honestly if you are talking about my personal intelligence, I've made no comments with regard to it. I have my opinions, and I make them on the information I have by thinking through that information. There were intelligence reports during the cold war that pretty clearly let many of us in the US know if there were ICBMs targeted in our general direction, based on strategic and psychological value. Treaties were specifically signed to *stop* aiming ICBMs at each other. This is much different than saying I (or you-unless do you?) know where Russia's missiles are targeted. I know where Putin says he will target them, but my hunch is now that he controls most of Europe's fuel, they are already targeted at Europe, in case there are future "disagreements". Make your own opinions on what you want to, including the phase of the moon. Perhaps no shield will ever be needed. This is ideal, of course. I will leave you with one thought-is being prepared for the worst truly paranoia? Also, if Putin says "if you borrow that vest from America I'm going to shoot you" how does it make America the threat? This is where I see the largest difference between our viewpoints.

You brought it up in this thread.

Really. I think you just like bagging on America, at this point, and what you believe (for right or wrong) to be happening in Iraq. Which has nothing to do with an ICBM interceptor base in Europe.

Unfortunately, you cant pretend that a disproportionate amount of civilians died in this conflict that didn't need to.
Historical revisionism should not be tolerated by anyone.

Name one war that civilians do not die in. However, you have not quantified your implication of historical revisionism in this case.

On the 21st of March the US launched 1700 air sorties against the civilian population in the city of Baghdad (also used over 500 cruise missiles).
According to The Guardian correspondent Brian Whitaker in 2003, "To some in the Arab and Muslim countries, Shock and Awe is terrorism by another name; to others, a crime that compares unfavourably with September 11
Over 6000 Iraqi non combatants - the majority women and children - were killed in that attack.

Interestingly enough, I'd like to know how, with limited or no telecommunications networks in service, let alone electricity, how Mr. Whitaker came up with the figure you list here, or the claim of the majority of these being women and children. Headquarters of Fedayyeen Saddam-yeah, I'm sure that one was FULL of women and children, along with every troop transport, truck, and tank....Neither I nor anyone else can say no civilians were ever killed, it happens in every war in spite of efforts against this, but I do know I never killed any nor did I see any killed. My feeling is that Mr. Whitaker, based on his other statement, invented the numbers, or "guessed" to back up the sensationalism of his story. Which is just as much a lie.

No, these are facts from the war going on as we speak.

Of course they are.

Totals for June -
31 coalition troops killed -
142 US wounded
Over 300 Iraqi deaths

These numbers were probably close. To be honest 3 IED's could account for this many. As far as Iraqi deaths, as the country is transitioning back to Iraqi control, Iraqi troops are doing a lot more of the fighting with various extreme groups formerly done by coalition troops; it is not without cost.

Regardless, I'll be there again soon enough, so feel free to read all the horrors you suppose I'm doing and tell me about them the next time I return (hopefully alive). It should be good reading at any rate; everything I'm hearing tells me I'll be pretty bored and won't get to interact with Iraqis (other than their SpecOps types) nearly as much as before. A shame. Met a lot of nice people last time.

Anyway take care folks.

John P.
JohnP   
19 Jul 2008
UK, Ireland / Polish parents hang themselves at their Lincoln, UK home [66]

Seems to be a lot of pre concieved ideas about suicide.
This is a good link for those that genuinely want to try and understand suicide -
Most people contemplating suicide do not want to die, they just want to stop the pain and difficulties they are experiencing

I completely agree with you. I think others also (teens esp.) just want those they feel somehow victimized by to feel "sorry" whether it is parents, peers, etc. Some want to be caught "attempting" suicide, while others go through either because they see no hope, or suffer delusions of watching the people who hurt them wail in sorrow at a funeral, all the while forgetting that they themselves will not be there ever again to accept the apologies of those involved...

I'm not a doc and I'm rambling.
I basically agree.

John P.
JohnP   
19 Jul 2008
News / America: Take your missile base and shove it! [116]

It's a question of who is precieved as to having the " offensive intentions." It's in Polands best interest to be friends with her neigbours. This "shield" is a drict "threat" to Polands neigbours, so therefore not in her best interest.

This is possible, although the part that gets me here is that Russia is in no way threatened by a base that has no capability to attack anyone. Now, if Russia could demonstrate that somehow offensive (e.g. tactical nuclear weapons or some such ) were going to be deployed, rather than interceptors, I think they would have a good argument. Since that isn't the case (and at any rate Russian satellites could track the things if they wanted) there is no actual threat to Russia. Russia is just upset because it's friend Iran and it's own weapons will become less useful, IMHO.

So what have you heard John ?
100 000, 500 000 or 1 000 000 Iraqi civilians killed ?

Nice bait, but I'm not biting. We've been down that road before, and while I can only assure you that Americans do not target civilians intentionally (nor do the British, Polish, or other forces there, for that matter) when they kill each other it is not somehow our fault anymore than it is yours. Nor are the numbers you throw up really quantifiable as a result of US action. Flattening of cities by bombing raids is something from the past, and estimates based on previous wars' tactics are somewhat irrelevant, IMHO. Things are pretty quiet there these days in case you haven't noticed, and [all] our sides are turning out to be the winners. Even the Iraqis themselves, finally

Wasn't it the American President, who wanted a quick resolution to the affair, so he could fund the war in the Pacific?

You tell me. Get back into your history books and find out the actual answers and get back to us. It would seem you didn't bother to read any of our posts, not just my own. Declaring one's nation innocent of some of the things it is accused of is in no way "preaching". Get a life. The rest of us were having a gentlemanly discussion and if you do not wish to partake in our festive mudslinging at each other, there is no requirement for you to join in. Go have a beer, relax, and enjoy your weekend.

John P.
JohnP   
18 Jul 2008
UK, Ireland / Polish parents hang themselves at their Lincoln, UK home [66]

Suicide is always horrible, but I cannot judge them, children or no. Suicide is just one possible choice people have in life when faced with negative events, unfortunately, it is also a choice which it is impossible to take back. Years ago I was on a ceremonial burial detail, and the person who hanged himself had done so because of marital infidelity on the part of his wife, who, when he confronted her, apparently told him to pack sand, she'll do what she wants. Weird situation. She actually showed at the funeral, and we had to present her with the flag, by regulation. Personally? I don't think she was worth it. For that guy? perhaps she was. Sometimes I think people want to make a lasting statement and see suicide as a way to this.

It just seems tragic that many of the people who need help wrt this the most, do not get it in time if at all.

John P.
JohnP   
18 Jul 2008
News / Thank you Ireland... EUCCP [81]

I'm not even European, and this scares the @#$p out of me. Perhaps one has to be European to understand, but it makes me nervous that the EU seems to want to subject its will on the member states and in effect cancel out their individual sovereignties....somebody or other is becoming more and more powerful.

Just an observation. Good for Ireland, IMHO. Economic unions are one thing. Giving up sovereignty to some other newly formed power that seems to be continuing its increasing power...well I believe Ireland did the right thing and the EU should respect their wishes.

Of course, I'm just an American. I could have this all wrong.
John P.
JohnP   
18 Jul 2008
News / America: Take your missile base and shove it! [116]

actually when you speak of a country as an entity this represents a failure to do so.

Something you yourself do quite frequently. Pot, Kettle. Glad to meet you.

And it's not me that should feel threatened but the people who stand to become the target of aggressive u.s. foreign policy.

While it is apparent that to many such as yourself America is somehow the root of all evil, but on the other hand, it is not America threatening to "remove" entire nations whilst you turn a blind eye and attribute it (once again) to the Americans. Honestly, if you can tell me how a purely defensive system is a "threat" to anyone other than those with offensive intentions, please do so.

If you cannot do so then I would like to further my argument that in fact it has been american activities in the last 50 years or more that should not only be called into question but have been the cause of untold deaths the world over and future american iinternational intervention ought to be viewed accordingly.

And yet, it wasn't the Americans who created your favorite nation of Israel, it was the Europeans. It wasn't the Americans colonizing the middle east and Africa, it was you British and the French. America does have her problems, but you have a bad propensity to drag out completely irrelevant accusations that have nothing at all to do with whether or not a defensive missile base would be helpful.

Spare me such drivel and i am disappointed that you'd waste my time with such a response. You show me where i'm off the mark or drop the insinuations. But frankly i grow tired of root'n toot'n folks like yourself who are simply unable or unwilling to entertain the notion that their government and military could do any wrong in the world and can't imagine themselves involved in anything wrong.

I see. Those who disagree with your tirade are "root'n-toot'n folks". This complete statement is both misguided and wrong. No one has said America hasn't/doesn't make mistakes. We do. What I want to know, is what does it have to do with the topic? nothing. Imagine if every time Britain had a good idea, I brought up atrocities from the Boer war, the Falklands, and the "Good 'ol Days of Empire", or Churchill allowing British to be bombed by German planes in WWII just to keep a secret decoder we stole a secret...Or if every time Russians had a benevolent idea I pointed out the massacres of millions under Stalin as evidence of their "goals". Hmm?

You seem to be a very intelligent man, but realize most of my posts are in response to ones (like some of yours) which seem unable to get away from "America is Evil" long enough to weigh the possibilities of what is actually on the table.

Just my opinion.

like weapons of mass destruction? support of dictators? support of terrorist organizations? go on take your pick, or shall i provide you with a wider selection?

But again what comes across is your complete failure to grasp the notion that (in fact i've had a genuine like for many americans i've met but also a dislike for many too, like people from poland, czech rep, hungary, canada, australia and the uk) a mistrust of what your leaders choose to do regarding foreign intervention must be seperated from american citizens.

While such would be an interesting discussion, this is a topic about a proposed interceptor base, not whether or not you like Americans or what we have done or you think we have done in the past. You seem very full of distrust, which isn't completely unhealthy, but it proves my point. Not everything is about how evil you think Americans are. Perhaps I am the devil incarnate. Doesn't mean interceptors are a bad idea.

Well things in america are getting closer and closer to that reality.

You on the other hand, have been there quite awhile, haven't you. It didn't protect your tubes, did it. Seems the UK government wants to license anything sharp and pointy or dangerous in the slightest. Perhaps they don't trust you. To think, many when very young used to want a chance to be on camera, just to show friends. Now I'm sure there's footage somewhere of almost all of you folk in the UK...you should be happy!

Ah you had left those last four letters out last time. Nonetheless- it's ok for your military to be pointing missles where ever because they're old? But everyone should be afraid of the iranian military cause of something we're told they could do?

In case you missed it, we were discussing an interceptor screen designed to shoot down ICBMS and to imply you did not realize these were the missiles being discussed when one talks of WMDs etc....well you aren't fooling anyone. US missiles are pointed where they are pointed. There are treaties controlling much of it and pretty sure they are no longer targeted anywhere specifically, but if they are on their old programs, my bet would be Russia and China, much like Russia's are still targeted at the US and China and perhaps now, Europe, if they were ever de-targeted in the first place. My point was, why get all bent out of shape for the offer of missiles simply for the purpose of shooting down other missiles-a very specialized task, and hardly a projection of force, while your friends the Russians (and Iranians, too) are testing very OFFENSIVE pieces of equipment, which are also very specialized, but designed to kill hundreds of thousands, not intercept missiles??? Turn a blind eye, if you wish.

Ok you give your own a free pass but want to see iranian civilians suffer for what their leader may or may not have said. Double standard.

Who said anything about me wanting to see Iranian civilians suffer? Not me. You are far too intelligent to be putting words in my mouth. I assure you that the ability to shoot down an Iranian (or otherwise) ICBM will not hurt one single Iranian civilian. It simply keeps their leader's options a little more limited on capabilities to attack elsewhere. Back to our Bullet resistant vest analogy, if I gave you a Kevlar vest, it would no more hurt the guy considering shooting you than it would if I bought you a beer. It simply does not relate.

And if russians or iranians were really hell bent on blowing up parts of europe then do you think they'd do it out in the open or covertly?
What would either groups have to gain by doing so in the first place?

You tell me. It isn't the evil American leaders threatening to wipe complete nations from the earth, whilst developing weapons grade plutonium and ICBMs, but call me paranoid. While Poland would get the revenue from a proposed interceptor site, the interceptors are not like PatriotII's, because ICBM's would have to be hit shortly after launch or while they were reaching space; as such, an interceptor base in Poland would not just protect Poland, but in theory all of Europe from ICBM's launched from anywhere in the nearby region and perhaps, elsewhere as well. Russia's shiny new ICBM's would be considerably less effective, perhaps even worthless against Europe, which is what, I think, has Putin all spooled up. Funny, he's still in charge, isn't he.

It doesn't make us American haters. It just means we see a different picture to the one that you paint.

Perhaps not. Your statement would be easier to swallow if most of your (as a whole, not individually) comments were not primarily pointing out your perceived faults in the U.S. In previous discussions we've been accused of everything from murdering civilians, torturing innocents, and everything else short of wishing to enslave the globe, but then you say "but we don't hate Americans". I guess it depends on how you define hate. It certainly isn't "like". I definitely don't agree with everyone, but I feel there are only a few voices here asking the questions like "where's your proof" or "how do you know". Not every topic, even about US offers of interceptors, is about whether Americans are involved in seedy organizations or if we have corrupt politicians. Show me one nation that isn't/doesn't. It is your apparent inability to see the difference that leads to my deduction that you hate. If all my posts were about horrors British committed in the Boer war, or the Falklands, or Sierra Leone or in the former Yugoslavia, regardless of whether they really pertained to the topic or whether they had been proven beyond a simple suspicion, you could just as easily make the same claims about me. I will not be making such accusations as a whole, simply because, by and large, the UK has been one of our greatest allies and have been in some of the same @#!tholes we have been, right there alongside us.

I imagin that they will dish the credibility of my source.

No need. Even without looking at the article, there is no secret we and quite a few others provided weapons and funding to Saddam during the Iran-Iraq war. (for the uninitiated, Iraq was the country that had *not* taken hostages, declared the USA the "Great Satan" and called for Infidel blood...]Some things, even, that today would be frowned heavily upon. Saddam was no fool, and he got plenty of supplies from quite a few places that you might be surprised if you knew. Whether it is illegal to provide supplies to a nation fighting one's sworn enemy, I seriously doubt it, as it's the way foreign policy has been done by almost every great nation since the beginning of time. The Babylonians, Greeks, Romans-all of them did it as did the British Empire, we Americans, and the Soviets. IMHO there is nothing wrong with this. America supplied England with rifles, submachine guns, fighter planes, and even ships prior to entering WWII, rather than see her completely decimated. There was a policy and will here of "hands off" and let Europe finish killing each other, again....and had the Japanese not blundered and bombed Pearl Harbor and Germany honored it's treaties (and torpedoed some ships) perhaps the US would have NEVER entered WWII. Or the war would still be going. Who knows.

......when the reallity is JohnP that the only country in the world that has waged nuclear war is the good old US of A. You go on and on about the "threat" of Iran when the reallity is JohnP that the ONLY war that Iran has EVER been involved in was against the AMERICAN backed Iraqi's. It's not the Iranian government that has been involved in constant military action all over the world since the 1950's that has resulted in the deaths of millions of people. That's your country, the US.

There you go again pointing the finger at us for WWII. A simple reminder, the US wasn't the only nation with an A-bomb program, just the only ones to successfully use one in combat. It ended the war, at any rate. Perhaps we should ask the citizens who survived your bombing of Dresden how they feel about THAT particular plan? WWII was a total war, not some controlled conflict such as we have in modern times. Bring it up if you wish, but remember America isn't the only nation to have made decisions that cost lives. Also notice that many of the military actions you accuse us of...also involve your own forces. Not only that, in most cases they were in response to not the cause of those millions of deaths you refer to. Communist forces pouring into Korea killing all who disagree in their path, to the point arriving allied troops initially thought there were stacks of cord wood floating in the sea-it was executed civilians, tied together in bundles...anyway, those were killed by the Communist forces, not Americans. Armed Forces types are killed and kill in war. That's our lot. Civilians are completely different, on the other hand and at least WRT American forces, civilian deaths are avoided if at all possible in spite of what rumors you may have heard. There is the movies, then there are editorial commentaries, then there is the truth. Often none of these will be the same. Personal opinion, were we able I feel we should have fought the Communists even more than we did. Who says Stalin gets E. Germany or Poland or Czech Republic, after all? IMHO it should have been a referendum to the citizens, but that is the dirty nature of politics when one has unfortunate allies in order to win.

By the way, the Military Industrial Complex that the video refers to isn't opinion or a conspiracy theory, it's a fact. Eisenhower warned against it, and so did Kennedy, just before they blew his head off.

While it is only a theory that "they blew his head off" there really is a military industrial complex, but I believe it was warned against for different reasons. It seems that top generals/admirals etc. either seek to go into politics or search for employment after the military. These same generals are in a position should they choose, to use their pull in support, perhaps unfairly, of one contractor over another in hopes of employment in some high level at that contractor at a later date. It makes for billion dollar guided superweapons, which we are all told we need to prevent "collateral damage" to the wrong house, for instance, when in the old days we simply taught troops to *aim* the weapon they already have. Just an example. The US isn't the only nation that suffers from this, either, when entire contracts are given to one company over another, jobs and incomes are on the line, and some of the contractors tend to play dirty.

Americans trying to buy the world again, how sad!!

Not really in this case. Poland made requests for help in exchange for sticking its neck on the line and it is only fair they get it, IMHO.

Now, sure we Americans have issues to clean up at home, but this thread wasn't about that.

Seanus, you've put a good thought in my head. It's been fun ladies and gentlemen, now I'm off to have one myself.

John P.
JohnP   
14 Jul 2008
News / America: Take your missile base and shove it! [116]

I find it odd that you would vilify the Iranian people based on limited information regarding their leader when the rest of the world could adopt those same standards and apply them to your elected leader or hopefuls or their advisors.

Actually, if you read my post, I very specifically excluded the Iranian people from this vilification you speak of...

and what is this that it has always been one? since when, the beginning of time? or since american policy makers decided to take an interest in the affairs of iran? i don't recall iran overthrowing the u.s. government and establishing a puppet leader only to have him ran out of town and then forever more being labelled the bad guy by any Iranian administration, the same cannot be said vice versa.

Now now, no need for nastiness here. There are plenty of threats in the world, it all depends on who you are. It is apparent you feel threatened more by Americans, than by Iran. That is your prerogative. Exocets, open support of terror organizations and assassinations notwithstanding, you are correct. Iran has not invaded the UK or Poland either one.

Yet you speak with such authority on the true purpose and intent of american leaders trying to establish bases beyond her borders:

IF you wish to call a few hundred missile and radar technicians a "base" that's fair enough. For once, America has a technology that Russia does not. It would not behoove the US to have Russians operating the very technology that could also be protecting our own nation from the Russian missiles STILL targeted at the United States. Perhaps you aren't living under the shadow anymore, but I cannot say the same. It only seems to me that I am one of perhaps a small few who actually speak out against the railings of those who, no offense, like yourself have no idea and only entertain the negative. Frankly I grow tired of people implying they know this evil deed or that evil deed is being done at the hands of Americans, when they have no proof of any of it, and when it is disproved, they simply shrug and start on a new topic of evil with which to blame Americans for. You do not even hear me doing this with regard to the Russians, other than my concern over why an interceptor shield makes them want to target Europe. That is huge blackmail, after all, if it is really we Americans they are upset at. Right? or is it that their former satellites aren't behaving how they would prefer, now. Makes me wonder, at least. The fact that you seem to give them across the board benefit of a doubt while pointing your fingers at America who has done nothing to you...tell me something. Especially considering it isn't America threatening to target you or anyone else with nuclear weapons (again?) nor is it America flying Bear bombers into your airspace (again) nor is it America in the position of being able to completely shut off your fuel

supply...but hey. If you feel Americans are evil, I would like more proof from you and less rumors that turn out to be false. I am not trying to say Americans do not make mistakes, but this prejudice you (yes, you too, Mr. hairball) consistently demonstrate against Americans or our country is tiring, and to be honest, offensive. The things you accuse us of go beyond simple ribbing between Brits, Yanks, Poles etc, and slip into a much nastier tone.

While I don’t claim that the base would be used offencively, I do find it amusing that on this point, despite you being low (your admission) on the totem pole, you on this point have authority to say what the future use or strategy of your government’s plan is.

Well, apparently I know enough technical information to know an interceptor does not have the capability to be used as an ICBM...so perhaps you see some intent of evil for these, but currently they lack the capability. The intent for them is obvious as it has been since the first attempts to build them. It is curious that the first major complaints against them, and indeed the first campaign of disinformation (calling them a "missile base" conveniently leaving out the important word) came from Russia. Russia, the very nation that also, interestingly enough, became the latest nation on the planet to test a new ICBM. Iran did not even do this, they only tested an older, proven technology missile. Yet somehow we Americans are the evil ones. I get it.

I am not accusing you of lying but i am not sure what you meant as it seems quite clear your statement is not true at all or you’re implying all recent missiles are deployed abroad- something which is easy view with suspicion and mistrust. please explain what you meant.

Which new missiles the US supposedly has built since the cold war are ICBM's? There has been much talk about upgrading current ones, and even pushes to build newer ones (yes) smaller, without the requirements for destroying entire cities like the older weapons. However, I am unaware of any new US ICBM designs being fielded since the Cold War. Please enlighten me.

yet there are countless instances of rape, murder, molestation, kidnapping and torture amongst americans. I cannot imagine what would make one choose to stone another to death due to a religious law but then again I can't imagine what goes on in the mind of many criminals within your borders either.

Cast the first stone if you wish. It happens within your own borders also, but on a smaller scale. I suppose if there were big brother style CCTV cameras watching every man, woman, and child in America there would be less crime perhaps, but then we would be right back in the place we used to sympathize with people under the Communists for, what with the KGB, Stasi, etc etc running around.

You can also look at a plethora of comments made by american political representatives or their families (i suppose they might be in the know) regarding attacks and portraying them as evil, more to the point the american military actually possesses the capacity to deliver on these threats.

I can only base this on personal observations of the political process here, but I believe many of them have no clue of our capabilities or lack thereof in most areas. They are lawyers and politicians, not military expersts. Honestly many of them have no clue. In fact, one senator in particular, is currently being sued for false accusations he made with no factual support against several Marines now cleared of the charges at Haditha. I cannot speak for British politicians, nor Polish, but American ones need to know the will of the people as best they can, but often do not have a real grasp on the military itself other than their own preconceived notions. There are of course exceptions to this rule.

I don’t think Iranians should be putting their resources towards increased weaponry but I don’t feel their neighbours should either, so if you support their neighbours having nuclear capabilities then what’s good for the goose is good for the gander. I don’t feel Polish leaders should be putting any funds towards continued armament as it wouldn’t make a difference anyhow in the grand scheme of a global conflict.

In the end i do feel this base will be built though.

I do not know if the base will be built or if it will be built in time should, God forbid, it ever be needed. As for the comments you make about their neighbors having nuclear capabilities, honestly, I do not know. There are plenty of rumors the Israelis have nuclear weapons, but even the Israelis have not to my knowledge even hinted, veiled or otherwise, that they do. Nor have the Israelis threatened to remove any other country. They do have their problems, but just as you assure me the Israelis are going around "systematically terminating Palestinian civilians" I can also ask you, how do you know this? WRT that hotbed of political unrest (created mostly, by the British, as I understand, but I'm not a student of Israeli history) there can be many things said without much proof. I've not seen any of these reports of systematic termination you speak of or any of the other stuff you blame on them. It simply isn't there, as far as I can tell. If you had argued you saw where Palestinians attacked a Jewish settlement with rockets and the IDF responded with a heavy hand-then I would perhaps agree with you. I cannot however agree with your current statement wrt this.

Well i was never suggesting that. I support citizens having the right and freedom to arm themselves. I wrote about illegal firearms i believe you misunderstood what i meant so i'll leave you to come to the correct conclusion.

In this case, perhaps I misunderstood your intent. In my estimation you and a few others have been using every topic possible to fling mud at Americans, and I've only been deflecting as best I can. Personally, I think much depends on what you call an "illegal" weapon. One carried by a felon or non-citizen? That is already against our laws, but laws are sort of not an issue for those already breaking them, in my estimation.

My essential belief on the interceptor base is that it would be beneficial to several countries, I also believe there is a real threat that many ignore. I feel it is folly to ignore one threat because the hand offering help happens to be American. I also feel that if Poland or the Czech Republic do not want the bases, it should 1) be up to them, and 2) their decision should be made based on the actual capabilities of the bases, not fear of Russian missiles with smart warheads, or some inherent mistrust of Americans. 3) I also feel the decision should not be made based on what propagandists and others are implying about a "new cold war" nor scoffing at the idea Iran for instance, could be a credible threat. People once scoffed at Hitler, too, and the man is apparently one of Ahmadinejad's heroes. Not that such alone makes him a threat, but the mention of sewing patterns into clothing I mentioned above are true, regardless of whether someone is in a government capacity or not.

Take it how you will.
John P.
JohnP   
13 Jul 2008
News / America: Take your missile base and shove it! [116]

Iran is a peaceful country that has NEVER aggressivly attacked another country. Maybe Poland should build their own shield as protection against the rogue 'united' states. lol

A shield is a shield. Build it for whoever you wish to build it for. But build it. My only comment to you (and yet again, you demonstrate your hate! what did Americans ever do to you?) is that if you look up one day and see white flashes, the warheads detonating are not American ones. You can also be happy that, in the last milliseconds of your life, you and those like you ensured these were not shot down.

well then stop pretending that other nations shouldn't take positions which are beneficial to them first and foremost. and this idea is beneficial to america first, not as an afterthought but first and foremost it was meant to further the american geopolitical policy.

This is a bit misguided. The question was posed that why would America do anything just to help Poland with no benefit to America. I do not write policy, in case you have forgotten. I am very low on the totem pole of international politics. I protect a helicopter. That's it. So stop kidding yourself that I have made even a single one of these decisions. Still a plan that is mutually beneficial is not the same thing as one that is solely beneficial to the U.S. and to be honest, Russia and Iran's missiles will be pointing at you regardless of if you have a shield, after all, it won't be too long before people realize that they are only free so long as Russia keeps the fuel coming.

Good luck with that.

better investment for u.s. citizens would be if you all dealt with the number of illegal firearms on your own streets, who you're all letting in to your country, where you're sending your young men and women, which companies and which people are making the most gains off u.s. led colonialism. But i suppose that would force americans to actually take a look in the mirror as a nation with the lights on and your leaders don't really seem eager to have that happen.

Fact of the matter is, the illegalization of firearms in the UK has done nothing to reduce crime there, and furthermore, reductions on the unconstitutional, IMHO restrictions on them here in the U.S. have also had the result of reduced crime rates, counter to what many proponents of gun control predicted would happen. Ultimately I believe the government should be responsible to its citizens more so than the citizens responsible to the government, and to be honest, both of our governments (no, I'm not talking about Poland, in this case as I'm pretty sure you are not a Pole) are quite a bit too big IMHO. That however, is a completely different thread and has nothing to do with this topic.

you seem to be assuming a lot on behalf of the iranians and assuming their intentions and as typical patriot you don't assume them to be honest or peaceful or at least no more so than those of your own leaders.

It is not dishonest at all. Pres. Ahmadinejad has actually been quoted as making direct threats against (of course) Israel, as well as nations in Europe which have also found themselves politically opposed to some of his goals. He also has said they would be "removed". Take that how you wish, sir. Our own leaders, dishonest as they may be at times, suffer from greed much more often than the desire to incinerate other countries in their entirety.

You seem to be suggesting that iran might suddenly morph into the threat americans paint it to be and start randomly attacking any country for no apparant reason and not expect to be completely invaded/overrun or worse within less than 10 days. I find that to be not only a dishonest representation of reality but completely delusional as well.

Sir, this is only delusional because it is what you yourself have imagined, not what any of my posts have stated. Read what they say, not what you imagine I *might* think, because it is a good bet you would be wrong. There is nothing random about Iran being a threat, it has always been one. The only thing changing is the level of capability involved, combined with the current government there being much more of a concern than, say, Ahmadinejad's predecessor, Khatami. Also, unlike other leaders, Ahmadinejad actually has the history to back him up as a threat. There are many other sources, however based on prior history of discussions with yourself and hairball, I felt if I posted one from someone with a U.S./European name you would IMHO discount it out of hand. So I quote this gentleman, not some London or New York "journalist" quoting from translations and making his own mind as to what the truth is. You and I can do that, after all quite well.

You don't seem to be suggesting there is anything wrong with the fact that although u.s. missles can reach anyone and anyplace on the planet americans by and large get downright angry and feel "threatened" if one of those targets should ever gain the ability to reach back. I find that position to be not only dishonest but cowardly as well.

Call it what you want, your post only demonstrates your own ignorance of recent past history. The only missiles in the US were built during the Cold War, when it was quite clear what targets they were intended for, especially considering Soviet "boomers" were patrolling only a mile or so off the U.S. coastline, "Bear" bombers were testing how close across the arctic circle they could get, and likewise our own submarines patrolled areas that would make them equally more capable of a first strike. The thing about a nuclear weapon, is that once it is built, it is built. It is not something gifted to a friend. Also, you seem to feel that there are somehow all these missiles somehow aimed at Europe. Many of the US ones are now destroyed IAW SALT treaties, and confirmed by Russians to this day. On the other hand, Putin just tested a BRAND NEW missile for Russian weapons, and unlike the US, he IS threatening to aim them at Europe. Of course, in your eyes and hairball's, the US is always the bad guy, something which, I think if you reconsidered how much of the information you hear about America is fact and how much is rhetoric, you may reconsider. After all, you give Iran this consideration, and they stone women in their streets.

on this primary difference of opinion based on actual real world observation i find it unlikely that i will find merit in any extension of american powers abroad which you seem to laude as noble yet i see as insideous, capiche?

While an interceptor base is hardly a projection of power(it cannot attack anyone...) I really do not understand this distrust and or hatred of America and Americans you possess. It is completely biased, one-sided, and more importantly, wrong. I have noticed you and others have this extreme willingness to believe only evil and everything evil said by *anyone* about the US, with no proof whatsoever, and you regard anything good with suspicion.

On the other hand, nations that have sponsored terror attacks and assassinations within Europe itself, routinely stone women to death for all sorts of things, as well as force Jews and Christians to wear identifying patterns sewn into their clothes (sound familiar, maybe?) and call for the destruction or "removal" of Israel, make veiled threats to Europe (all amid, strangely chants of "Death to America")

yep, those guys have only the BEST of intentions.

The shield was suggested almost a decade ago because of things said by the Iranians then; contrary to what people such as yourself seem to believe, it wasn't an idea suggested last week or last year, and it wasn't offered as a response to whatever technology Iran has "tested" so much as what it is building. All of Iran's actions still back this up. Blatant rejection of UN oversight, in favor of the IAEA, and then blocking and lying to even that particular organization. How convenient that Ahmadinejad screams he only wants nuclear power (something I'm for for all of us, incidentally) but then proceeds to build purification facilities on a massive scale that are known for producing not fuel grade, but weapons grade Uranium.

I will say this. If I am wrong and no shield is ever needed, I would much rather that, than be right, and have gentlemen such as yourself be responsible for the deaths of hundreds of thousands, perhaps millions. If you are worried about the Russians, and Putin's threats-then by all means, if you still somehow trust him more in spite of that, then by all means, ask your friends the Russians to shield you. The threat is real. After all, we all know how well Poland and others were treated by their "Slav Brothers" in the past.

Enjoy those bogey-man dreams of red, white, and blue, I guess, because they are only dreams.
Hopefully, if the shield is not built, you will not live to see me proved right. As much as I would love to see it for sake of our argument, and to counter you gentlemen's apparent hatred of America and everyone American, self included, I would much rather see you and everyone else live on to corrupt successive generations about how evil America was before it fell, and how nice it is to have the friendly Russians in charge again.

John P.
JohnP   
12 Jul 2008
News / America: Take your missile base and shove it! [116]

notice the first word of your next? talk about disinformation...
JohnP:
Supposedly they were originally offered with Iran and technology transfers from N Korea etc.

Hi again Mr. Foreigner..FWIW how is this disinformation?
The Iranians just tested their Shahab-4 missiles, which are only medium range, and it is widely accepted that they already possess Shahab-6 ICBMs purchased through other sources (much like their Shahab 4) giving them true ICBM range (all of Europe, for example). The proposed shield has not even been started, let alone completed, and is in anticipation of Iran's ability to reach Europe, and yes, the United States. I never once suggested the idea wasn't beneficial to Americans as well, although it will be *a little* longer before Iran can reach us. It is already generally accepted that Europe is already or will be soon within range of Iranian missiles, as is it also accepted that Iran will have nuclear weapons to tip them prior to any proposed shield being constructed.

Americans developed and tested a nuclear weapon in WWII, when scientists had to use slide rules at best, no computers, and even the idea of the weapon itself was theoretical, let alone methods to purify the Uranium (for the fission bomb) and Plutonium (for the fusion bomb). It took only a few years. Iran, on the other hand, already knows the basics of nuclear weapons production, already has nations friendly to it which already have nuclear weapons (and ICBMs) in their arsenals-already has the facilities for producing weapons grade material, and if you really believe they are not developing the ability to reach you, well, enjoy the bliss.

Iran has already launched satellites into space. It isn't a great leap of technology to replace a satellite with a nuclear weapon and tell it to fall out of orbit over Warsaw, London, Wroclaw, etc. etc. and it is a safe bet Europeans will be amongst the first targets right up there with us. Russia is choosing to befriend Iran and make oil deals. What does your country have to offer? A shield would not only reduce this ability but also negate some of Russia's bargaining power as well (it wouldn't be able to shake its nukes at everyone...something Putin seems to enjoy.)

It is blackmail on a national level. A gangster has moved in down the block and has been shopping for an AK47. A friend has offered a bulletproof vest, then suddenly the old landlord is upset about it.

Seems to me the old landlord and the gangster down the street have something in common, if you will accept the analogy. If you are convinced that the base is an offensive weapon to shoot at Russia, I cannot help that, but it is a wrong idea. Why build more weapons after all, U.S. is still obeying the SALT treaties. Not sure Russia is...they just tested a shiny new ICBM after all.

Russia is blowing smoke for whatever reason; the U.S. and Russia have been able to incinerate each other for decades without a single missile in Poland or anywhere else. It might cost more, but we both (US and Russia) already have the missiles.

John P.
JohnP   
11 Jul 2008
News / America: Take your missile base and shove it! [116]

Did anyone really think Putin would let go of the reigns so easily, after molding Russia into more and more of a dictatorship with a Soviet flavor the whole time he was (officially) running things? I somehow doubt many are surprised.

As for Russians being "slav brothers" it sure didn't help when Russia and Germany were deciding which part of their "Slav brothers'" country they wanted to keep.

If Poland doesn't want an interceptor base, it is up to Poland, but the decision should be made based on facts and not superstitions and disinformation put out by Russia and elsewhere implying there is somehow an offensive purpose to these, as there is not.

Supposedly they were originally offered with Iran and technology transfers from N Korea etc. in mind, but it is interesting now that Putin is cozy with Iran, he is suddenly vehemently opposed. Why does he care, I ask? Unless he plans already to launch or threaten to launch nuclear weapons against Poland, (which would kind of discount all that "Slav Brother" bit wouldn't it?).

If anyone is really that worried about Americans on a base in Poland, that's all fine and good-at least they won't think they own everyone (sorry but American troops are not rich) and will likely spend all their hard earned money in the local areas anyway. It seems everyone else (and their money) is welcome-so if thousands of British businessmen are welcome, what's wrong with Americans who can't afford to pretend they own everyone?

There are Polish soldiers training in the U.S. too, after all. It isn't as if they would go there unwelcomed, and no one is suggesting an "occupation" so it strikes me as paranoia that some seem to see it that way.

If, after reviewing the actual *facts* about what is and is not on the table, Poland decides it is not in her best interest, then fair enough, it was offered.

Russia is bluffing. America and Russia have had the capability to incinerate each other quite easily for decades, without a single offensive weapon in Europe. Putin just doesn't like the idea that not only Iranian (his new best friend) but his own nuclear missiles, (they recently just tested new ones in fact-Russia AND Iran...) could be shot out of the air, making successful strikes against certain targets impractical if not impossible.

John P.
JohnP   
3 Jul 2008
News / Poland: the 51st state of America [119]

it also says *UNNAMED* so its easy to accuse someone in high rank as well..
another media fed garbage.

You got the last part right.
The NYT is IMHO so involved in the political process at this point that they are lashing out an anyone for possibly disagreeing with their (and, their party's) views on America, the war, and especially this administration. Which is why when things are going well, it is not reported. When they go badly, it runs, unless their favorite people are involved.

Take them with a grain of salt. If the NY Times says a country is a "51st state" it is because THEY hate that country, just for being pro American when their favorite party isn't in the White House. There are movies, and all sorts of articles all already assuming the rumors of torture are true, however none of the rumors have been to my knowledge substantiated. A man (with HUGE media coverage) claiming he was captured by CIA, taken all over the place and tortured, then released.....

Doesn't ring true to me. CIA aren't in the business of announcing who they are, after all, and if so many illegal things were supposedly done to him at the hands of CIA or American officials, why not just add one more illegal act and kill the wind bag if it were true?

I think it's a lot of wash, and not only do I seriously doubt the veracity of the "victim" from what little I've seen, but also doubt Poland (or a few of the other countries "indicated") actually would have anything to do with torture either.

Now, if the man is saying someone raised their voice at him, or threatened him? Grow a thicker skin, such is not torture. Still these days if a man flies on an airline to Poland and thinks the airline food is bad, the NY Times will say he was tortured and that the CIA did it and that Poland offered to host the party.

The NY Times is still in the business of stirring up contempt for Americans, thinking it will be directed only at the Republican party. Some of them are so full of themselves they wouldn't know a real news story if it hit them in the side of the head. One could probably find better, more accurate news in a comic book.

So, again, don't let what a NY Times writer says get you down. It isn't what Americans think, but what one bitter person with no life beyond his indoctrination in journalism school, and probably lives a lonely life in front of a computer screen hashing through the thoughts of his favorite celebrities in Hollywood. Like they REALLY have any idea what is good for the country or what real life is about.Generally, anyway.

Sorry for the ramble again...

Just my opinion, of course.
Night folks

John P.
JohnP   
3 Jul 2008
News / Poland: the 51st state of America [119]

According to CIA man James Pavitt, "Poland is the 51st state of America". How does it make you feel Polish people, that Poland is looked upon by the CIA as nothing but a puppet, slave state of America. Poland has no choice but to accept black sites for torture, build missile bases in Poland that don't work for foreign soldiers, and engage in dumb wars for America like in Iraq.

Whatever.
Poland is Poland. The CIA world fact book is available for download free (pretty sure you can go straight to their website
cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/index.html
to see the official info CIA puts out for various countries. Nothing about Poland being a 51st state (although if they wanted to be, I'd like to think they would be welcome-it wouldn't be the first time a country decided to become part of the U.S.) at all. Anyone can look at it for themselves.

Mr. Pavitt is just another blow-hard voicing his personal bitterness and hatred, IMHO, don't let him get you down.

John P.
JohnP   
3 Jun 2008
UK, Ireland / Do many British carry knives? [60]

Just curious, but are Fiskars (in UK/Europe) many of the same knives as offered in the US by Gerber? (owned by Fiskars)...I love their small hatchets. Those things take a great edge and are nearly indestructible.

Anyway...

Ontario makes some decent, no fuss, no muss knives. Another maker that comes to mind for the budget minded is Cold Steel-everything they make comes sharp enough to shave with, to boot.

Personally for defense I believe in sort of a one-two-three approach if possible.
1. Run if possible. If that doesn't work,
2. Attempt to stop the attacker with less-than-deadly methods. If that is not possible (eg the attacker has already made that jump)
3. Deadly methods.

In the US, defending oneself with a knife is considered use of deadly force in most cases, so it would be wise to know when one is or is not justified in its use. "He was stealing my car stereo" does not apply, for instance.

John P.
JohnP   
3 Jun 2008
USA, Canada / POLISH AMERICANS AND THE 2008 US ELECTION [79]

I think many people are misled here. Again (got to love our networks here in the USA) they parade mediocre leaders, traitors, and/or blatant narcissists in front of the American people-men and women who we would not trust to run a large corporation if the stockholders are meant not to starve-then they tell us the choices are between a White man, a black/mix man, and a white woman.

The networks see only color or gender and are not concerned with substance. The people on the other hand, are starved for information and get little or nothing more than soundbites. Obama is for "change," while more and more disturbing affiliations turn up which seem a bit more than coincidental. Clinton(although she is apparently out of the run now for the top) is just as narcissistic as Obama is, and apparently was in shock that the nomination was not handed to her on a silver platter. Would she sell her soul AND her country to stay there? McCain has ridden the coattails of his survival of a terrible ordeal 30 years ago in areas which IMHO may or may not have anything to do with his potential quality as a president. Not to mention he has an uncomfortable record of "reaching across party lines" which makes people worry he is not who he is portrayed to be.

The Democratic party machine has whipped up a rock star-like frenzy for its potential candidates with little information on what their actual platform(s) would be, and the Republican party has missed the point altogether. Republican candidates of late seem (to me) to be distancing themselves from conservatives, forgetting that conservatives were the majority of who voted them in. This will be taken as a betrayal-as a candidate purporting to be supportive of one's values who after being elected does completely the opposite....well, just say a lot of former Republicans are now just calling themselves "conservatives," as the party has left them.

It has nothing to do with race, gender, or skin color, except with an extremely small minority, and everything to do with the fact the candidates are either mediocre, cannot be trusted, and or are potential time bombs.

Imagine being offered three different cars on a car lot. One of them has an engine that misses, the next doesn't have a steering wheel, and the last no brakes.

Based on the color, which would you choose?

Exactly the choice we are being given right now. I feel the people who should be running either are not or backed down to let the media-darling party hacks go for it.

Bush was bad enough. These three look just as bad, perhaps much worse.

We just want a candidate who, as president, will fight for us-rather than "magnanimously" bowing to the opposition's whim later. If involved in a lawsuit, or maybe a divorce or some other tough battle, would you like an attorney who soon after being hired, shows what a "great man" he is by giving half your things to the other side? NO!!! it is the same with presidential candidates, but they seem to forget this and get absorbed into their own greatness. Meanwhile, forgetting the regular people who got them there.

John P.