I wish all of you a Merry Christmas and a happy -- and healthy -- New Year. (View Post)

The number of government levels appropriate in a democracy is an interesting theoretical problem -- to which I have no definitive answer. (Those interested in such theoretical questions might want to… (View Post)

SeaShantyIrish- If I had spelled it as Orwell did: "wrongthink", you might have spotted the ironic reference to "1984". (View Post)

Contrary to what "Charles" said, the United States abolished the slave trade at the same time Britain did, in 1807, though the American law did not take effect until January 1st, 1808, for … (View Post)

On flags: On my little street, the places most likely to fly an American flag on the 4th of July are homes occupied by immigrants, judging from their appearances. That doesn't surprise me; legal… (View Post)