Are you in favour of ethnonationalism (ethnic-nationalism)?

govols comments on Dec 19, 2019:

Is the concept of "nation" a socio-normative reality? If so, is it built around a deep historical shared populational experience? Isn't something like that a basic definition of "ethnicity?" To the extent that governmental structures arise from such social customs, isn't that the ethno-national ...

Naomi replies on Dec 20, 2019:

Hello, According to Michael Ignatieff, nationalism can take one of two forms, each defined by different kinds of belonging. On one hand, you've got "civic nationalism", in which national identity is defined by shared civic and political values (all citizens are part of the nation). On the other, you've got "ethnic nationalism", where belonging is defined by ethnic identity, language, religion, and similar traits. It's a form of nationalism with some strong opinions about who does, and does not, belong. Ethnonationalism sounds exclusive. https://study.com/academy/lesson/ethnic-nationalism-definition-theory-examples.html

World first cancer treatment being trialed in UK NHS hospitals

Bonez comments on Dec 18, 2019:

Caged Guinea pigs.

Naomi replies on Dec 20, 2019:

Interesting! (Not being sarcastic) I recognise PETA but I've never known any PETA member personally. Thanks to IDWC. Good getting to know you. :)

There have been many many derogatory memes thrown around and many many contemptuous comments posted ...

Scanderbeg comments on Dec 19, 2019:

#1 Both of her parents should loose custody and probably spend some time in a mental institution #2 Greta has mental problems (Fact) #3 Greta doesn't know scientific facts about environment #4 She has been brainwashed to the point that anyone with a different opinion becomes her enemy #5 She is...

Naomi replies on Dec 19, 2019:

@Scanderbeg Agreed.

When a government is required flow chart

JackHammel comments on Dec 19, 2019:

A lovely simple utopian idea that only a lovely simple bozo would believe in.

Naomi replies on Dec 19, 2019:

@jamesjohn I have no idea, either!

"How Profits From Opium Shaped 19th-Century Boston" Some interesting American history for those ...

purdyday comments on Dec 19, 2019:

It never ceases to amaze me how so called progressives always seem to have to reach back into a long ago past in order to prove something that is wrong and invalidates, somehow, present day attitudes or achievements. All the while, frantically climbing the diversity ladder that leads to where?

Naomi replies on Dec 19, 2019:

Me, too. :)

"How Profits From Opium Shaped 19th-Century Boston" Some interesting American history for those ...

purdyday comments on Dec 19, 2019:

It never ceases to amaze me how so called progressives always seem to have to reach back into a long ago past in order to prove something that is wrong and invalidates, somehow, present day attitudes or achievements. All the while, frantically climbing the diversity ladder that leads to where?

Naomi replies on Dec 19, 2019:

Don't you find the article interesting, though, purdyday? Have you read it?

Race and the First Opium Crisis | Boston Review

Boardwine comments on Dec 19, 2019:

Whitey is the devil huh?

Naomi replies on Dec 19, 2019:

@Boardwine You could say that again. 300 years! Having said that, I think the Dutch and the Chinese were allowed to trade with Japan during the isolation period. Also, a very unique culture was developed, which is still very much alive today.

A tragedy that should have been preventable.

Bay0Wulf comments on Dec 18, 2019:

That a normal heterosexual might react violently when their “date” turns out to be of the same gender ... that someone of the same gender falsely passed themselves off as being an acceptable potential “mate” ... “life partner” ... really should come as no surprise. Rather, it actually ...

Naomi replies on Dec 19, 2019:

Hello Bay0Wulf. "In my life I’ve been chased around by homosexuals" I wanna know what you look like in real life! I'm intrigued! 😂 (Only Joking!)

Race and the First Opium Crisis | Boston Review

Boardwine comments on Dec 19, 2019:

Whitey is the devil huh?

Naomi replies on Dec 19, 2019:

Hello. Whitey WAS, because they were the most sophisticated ones back then. They ruled the world. Did you know (my Japanese friend told me) that back in the 17th, Christianity was banned by the Tokugawa Shogunate. Its philosophy was seen as indoctrination and as a threat to the Buddhist shogunate rulers at that time. Interesting, no?

When a government is required flow chart

JackHammel comments on Dec 19, 2019:

A lovely simple utopian idea that only a lovely simple bozo would believe in.

Naomi replies on Dec 19, 2019:

Easy, you bully! 🤣

When a government is required flow chart

JackHammel comments on Dec 19, 2019:

A lovely simple utopian idea that only a lovely simple bozo would believe in.

Naomi replies on Dec 19, 2019:

@JackHammel, @jamesjohn https://www.lexico.com/definition/bozo

This will come back to haunt them in November. Big Time!! [torontosun.com]

Kravman2 comments on Dec 19, 2019:

Are we seeing the last stand of the lefties? In the UK the ultra left wing Labour Party aided by the Liberals tried their best to undermine the democratic system and were soundly defeated at the election. In Europe the Liberal bureaucrats are fighting a rearguard action to prevent moderates and the...

Naomi replies on Dec 19, 2019:

Hello. The ultra left-wing Labour Party... I would argue that it was Corbynism and Corbyn's lack of leadership that failed a huge number of loyal Labour Party supporters, and not the Labour Party itself. The constant divide within the party since Corbyn became the leader has been dreadful. I don't know exactly what Americans call "the Left", but in the UK, loyal Labour Party supporters are typically proud working-classes who are honest and hardworking and embrace traditional values such as the importance of marriage, family and community. That way, they're conservative socially, while they may support more socialistic approaches than the Tories in economic terms. That's my understanding of the Labour Party, anyway.

"How Profits From Opium Shaped 19th-Century Boston" Some interesting American history for those ...

purdyday comments on Dec 19, 2019:

It never ceases to amaze me how so called progressives always seem to have to reach back into a long ago past in order to prove something that is wrong and invalidates, somehow, present day attitudes or achievements. All the while, frantically climbing the diversity ladder that leads to where?

Naomi replies on Dec 19, 2019:

Hello. I think it's all right to look at history without wearing a political lens. :)

There have been many many derogatory memes thrown around and many many contemptuous comments posted ...

James comments on Dec 18, 2019:

The little girl is irrelevant until you hear otherwise sane people buying into the guilt trip propaganda thing. I think it is more about who, how and why she is even known to any of us in the first place; this is very irritating. The How: We see her popularity as mere propaganda. For example, ...

Naomi replies on Dec 19, 2019:

Hello. I read some articles about the young inventor you talk of. He also set up his own business. I also know that there is an old Indian lady who is an environmental activist and she has been planting thousands of trees in India for decades. These people deserve much more media attention for what they do. Moreover, in the region where I live, the local authorities in partnership with private companies have been experimenting geothermal energy and evaluating its utility and practicability. I like people who are so constructive and pragmatic that they can actually get things done. My question still remains, though - many seem to agree that it is not Greta, it is those who exploit her for their political agenda. Then, why is it always her who is subjected to bashing? You must've seen plenty of derogatory, contemptuous memes against her all over the social media. If they must, they should be bashing those who are exploiting her, and not her, don't you think? I find this phenomenon really strange. Let me know if you found information that looks into this phenomenon from an anthropological/psychological viewpoint.

World first cancer treatment being trialed in UK NHS hospitals

Bonez comments on Dec 18, 2019:

Caged Guinea pigs.

Naomi replies on Dec 19, 2019:

Hello Bonez. Are you an animal rights activist?

There have been many many derogatory memes thrown around and many many contemptuous comments posted ...

Scanderbeg comments on Dec 19, 2019:

#1 Both of her parents should loose custody and probably spend some time in a mental institution #2 Greta has mental problems (Fact) #3 Greta doesn't know scientific facts about environment #4 She has been brainwashed to the point that anyone with a different opinion becomes her enemy #5 She is...

Naomi replies on Dec 19, 2019:

Hello. Many would agree with your sympathetic view for Greta. Why the need of bashing her, then? Why is she always the one who is subjected to bashing instead of her parents and the users, then? That is my question. Strange, no? Any idea?

There have been many many derogatory memes thrown around and many many contemptuous comments posted ...

tigercake comments on Dec 18, 2019:

Just saying that what she says is irrelevant is seen as an attack on her, when it is not. Just pointing out that the left is using her is also seen as an attack on her, when it is still not. I believe something should be done and could be done about the environment, but I condemn such poor strategy ...

Naomi replies on Dec 18, 2019:

Hello RCGibb. I'm not here to take sides. I'm not left or right, or up or down for that matter. I'm simply wondering about the "phenomenon" that many derogatory memes and comments about Greta are thrown around on all social media LARGELY by middle-aged men who get annoyed about Greta. Why do they have the urge to do that? For example, do you think middle-aged men (possibly on the left) would react the same way if a 16-year-old republican acted like Greta in the opposite stance? Let me know if you find an article explaining this behaviour from the anthropological/psychological point of view.

There have been many many derogatory memes thrown around and many many contemptuous comments posted ...

RCGibb comments on Dec 18, 2019:

One other Item, who better knows about spoiled children than middle aged conservative men?

Naomi replies on Dec 18, 2019:

Point taken!

Lord Of The Rings Amazon TV Series Casting Weird-Looking Extras To Play Orcs

ScottforKing comments on Dec 18, 2019:

Isn't this racist in some way looking to exploit people who are "hansomely disadvantaged?"

Naomi replies on Dec 18, 2019:

Hello. I never came across my mind. 😂

Tory MP makes history as world's first openly gay Muslim to be elected

RobBlair comments on Dec 18, 2019:

The Ahmadiyya Muslims are not allowed to call themselves Muslims in many other Muslim nations.

Naomi replies on Dec 18, 2019:

@RobBlair I am not religious, so I can only understand religions from the anthropological viewpoint, I'm afraid. My understanding is that religion, which refers to not only the major religions in the West but also the major religions in the East, and beyond, evolves as society evolves. It evolves as culture evolves. It evolves as everything human does. If Islam were to evolve, or any religion for that matter, so be it, it shall evolve from within. I rest my case. :)

There have been many many derogatory memes thrown around and many many contemptuous comments posted ...

tigercake comments on Dec 18, 2019:

Just saying that what she says is irrelevant is seen as an attack on her, when it is not. Just pointing out that the left is using her is also seen as an attack on her, when it is still not. I believe something should be done and could be done about the environment, but I condemn such poor strategy ...

Naomi replies on Dec 18, 2019:

Hello. So you reckon talking to people with anger and condescension rub them the wrong way - I can go along with that view. But I would imagine that kind of approach will annoy anyone regardless of age. Why "middle-aged men on the right" in particular, though? We don't hear many young people on the right criticising Greta on social media. Strange, no?

Tory MP makes history as world's first openly gay Muslim to be elected

RobBlair comments on Dec 18, 2019:

The Ahmadiyya Muslims are not allowed to call themselves Muslims in many other Muslim nations.

Naomi replies on Dec 18, 2019:

@RobBlair I can't talk on behalf of Muslims, as I'm not religious. But, like there are different Christian denominations and there are different Buddhist sects, I can't see why there shouldn't be different interpretations of Islam. Incidentally, I believe that the reformers want to remove Sunnah and Hadiths from the Quran. You talk about authority. I believe that many fundamental Christians are very strict in their belief that the Bible is the infallible word of God. Medina (fundamental) Muslims also firmly believe that the Quran is the infallible word of Allah. You ask "On what authority does one Muslim stand to say that one behavior is acceptable while another Muslim says it is not?" The same question may apply to Christianity if you replace "Muslim" with "Christian", no? Re: Is it acceptable for a Christian to be gay?

World first cancer treatment being trialed in UK NHS hospitals

Xtra comments on Dec 18, 2019:

Hope it works.

Naomi replies on Dec 18, 2019:

Me, too!

Tory MP makes history as world's first openly gay Muslim to be elected

RobBlair comments on Dec 18, 2019:

The Ahmadiyya Muslims are not allowed to call themselves Muslims in many other Muslim nations.

Naomi replies on Dec 18, 2019:

Hello. Well, you may find it crazy but we have a gay Muslim community in the UK and they are not hiding their sexuality, so... One LGBT business leader says 'People say you can’t be gay and Muslim. They are incredibly ignorant.' https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/muslim-gay-marriage-maajid-nawaz-lbc-a7851731.html We have gay bishops in the West, no? So why not gay Muslims? I'm not religious myself, so, I have no personal opinion about it, but it seems evident that religion evolves as society evolves. Apparently, there are Mecca Muslims, who are the majority and are peace-seeking Muslims, there are Medina Muslims, who are fundamentalists, and there are cultural Muslims, who happened to be born into Muslim families and never bother reading the Quran. 😂 There are individuals and groups who have been working on the reformation of Islam.

Lord Of The Rings Amazon TV Series Casting Weird-Looking Extras To Play Orcs

datguy comments on Dec 17, 2019:

I’m open to let them be the judge on whether I look weird enough. But, how good is “good paying”? Too tall for a goblin, too short for an orc. And my hair is still all black. Not looking promising but anything is possible. Lol

Naomi replies on Dec 18, 2019:

Hello. The article says: You're not working for free, mind. In addition to getting your food provided for, you'll also receive £148 (don't know what in USD) per day. That's not a bad price for a day's work cavorting around dressed as a hobbit or a goblin. The idea is that if they cast strange-looking people to begin with, they'll save money and time on make-up and prosthetics. Wise thinking, you'd have to say. Well, if you have some teeth missing, extra wrinkles and unusual amounts of body hair, you would make a good candidate. 😂

Tory MP makes history as world's first openly gay Muslim to be elected

JimbobNE comments on Dec 17, 2019:

Openly gay muslim? I guess not all muslims toss gays from buildings. That is a step forward for Islam.

Naomi replies on Dec 17, 2019:

Hello. Like there are different Christian denominations and there are different Buddhist sects, I believe that there are different interpretations of the teaching of Islam. Like anything else, religion also evolves. And yes, I think it's good.

As a mental health nurse, people don't realise I'm more soldier than nurse | Public Leaders Network ...

RobBlair comments on Dec 17, 2019:

I don't pay my wife anything, but she treats me well.

Naomi replies on Dec 17, 2019:

Hello. Your wife must be a saint.

As a mental health nurse, people don't realise I'm more soldier than nurse | Public Leaders Network ...

timon_phocas comments on Dec 17, 2019:

Howdy @Naomi, In the US nurses are paid more highly. I was one and my son is one. So I guess that's a positive. In 1960, mental hospitals had 500,000 beds in a nation of 160 million. Today, with a 320 million population, there are approximately 50,000. The patients they previously served ...

Naomi replies on Dec 17, 2019:

Hello. I have a friend who is a mental health nurse, and he posted this meme on FB the other day. 😂

Ok, this may finally be the end of the bad jokes for me.

ALiza1 comments on Dec 17, 2019:

Oh dear ... I’m afraid I may like it here 😂

Naomi replies on Dec 17, 2019:

Disturbed individuals 😂 🤣

I cannot comprehend how anyone today can justify hatred of another ethnicity.

govols comments on Dec 16, 2019:

Well, pick a Western cultural or social issue that you consider to be important. Examine it for any deficiencies that you can identify as such might be measured from a traditionalist perspective. Dig into the origins until you find where things began to "come apart," or, in other words, where things...

Naomi replies on Dec 17, 2019:

Hello. A conspiratorial lens and, a political lens. I would rather see the world without wearing those lenses

I cannot comprehend how anyone today can justify hatred of another ethnicity.

Naomi comments on Dec 16, 2019:

Hello. Is it just Jewish people you're feeling sorry for?

Naomi replies on Dec 17, 2019:

@David42 What's going on here??? I'm just a representative of ignorance. Literally! 🤣 You seem to be able to accommodate different views from your own. Open-mindedness is important to me.

Muslims Flee Britain After Boris's Win - YouTube

Naomi comments on Dec 15, 2019:

Hello. It is easy to play the victim card. It is not Islamophobic to criticize Islam; it is not antisemitic to criticize the Israeli government; it is not anti-Buddhist to criticize Buddhism, and so on.

Naomi replies on Dec 17, 2019:

And https://www.lexico.com/definition/islamophobia

I cannot comprehend how anyone today can justify hatred of another ethnicity.

David42 comments on Dec 16, 2019:

I don’t know anyone who hates anyone. Media promotes division, for profit. Politicians promote racism, for votes. Governments promote racism for power.

Naomi replies on Dec 16, 2019:

@Clarken I'm under the impression that American society is very polarised over politics. I live in the UK and I have left-wing friends as well as right-wing friends. I don't always share their views but we agree that there is far more to life than politics. Is it harder for you people in America to separate politics from friendship? Or maybe it's not that bad in real life; it's only on social media like this site. I've never lived in America, so I don't know...

I cannot comprehend how anyone today can justify hatred of another ethnicity.

Naomi comments on Dec 16, 2019:

Hello. Is it just Jewish people you're feeling sorry for?

Naomi replies on Dec 16, 2019:

@MarieBabik I wanna know what you're on right now. 😂 Anyway, thanks. X

I cannot comprehend how anyone today can justify hatred of another ethnicity.

David42 comments on Dec 16, 2019:

I don’t know anyone who hates anyone. Media promotes division, for profit. Politicians promote racism, for votes. Governments promote racism for power.

Naomi replies on Dec 16, 2019:

Hello. Do you find it hard to navigate your thoughts through the clouds of propaganda? I do, unfortunately...

I cannot comprehend how anyone today can justify hatred of another ethnicity.

Naomi comments on Dec 16, 2019:

Hello. Is it just Jewish people you're feeling sorry for?

Naomi replies on Dec 16, 2019:

@Clarken If you feel sorry for those who hate other groups of people for whatever the reason, then, I would say you're a nice person.

I cannot comprehend how anyone today can justify hatred of another ethnicity.

Naomi comments on Dec 16, 2019:

Hello. Is it just Jewish people you're feeling sorry for?

Naomi replies on Dec 16, 2019:

@Clarken Does that mean that you feel sorry for those who hate Muslims, black people, the Chinese, the Russians, immigrants, etc., as well as Jews?

Meme is spot on.

DonProvolone comments on Dec 16, 2019:

Just was vilified, and bashed as "bragging" with my foods posts in Silly Random and Fun, presumably by a Canadian Liberal. The Left is Nuts.

Naomi replies on Dec 16, 2019:

Well, MarieBabik... you talk about "overreacting"... I don't know what to say about that. 😂 I find you're both alright. Actually, more than alright; you're both entertaining! 😂

Meme is spot on.

DonProvolone comments on Dec 16, 2019:

Just was vilified, and bashed as "bragging" with my foods posts in Silly Random and Fun, presumably by a Canadian Liberal. The Left is Nuts.

Naomi replies on Dec 16, 2019:

@DonProvolone I know you! Keep baking for them! ;)

Meme is spot on.

DonProvolone comments on Dec 16, 2019:

Just was vilified, and bashed as "bragging" with my foods posts in Silly Random and Fun, presumably by a Canadian Liberal. The Left is Nuts.

Naomi replies on Dec 16, 2019:

Hello Don. Looks like you're in trouble. 🤣 Marie is a tough lady. She's right about food banks ,though. But I know you're a guy with a big heart, too. She'll get to know you better in no time. It's all in the virtual world. Merry Christmas X

Someone should let Facci know that I'm about to ban him from this group.

Naomi comments on Dec 15, 2019:

Hello. Well, he might unblock you soon. Perhaps, he blocked you at the heat of the moment. It seems evident that he has strong views on certain things. Mind you, there are many members here who have firm beliefs, rightly or wrongly. For example, blanket attack on Muslims by Christians seems pretty...

Naomi replies on Dec 16, 2019:

@SpikeTalon I read the thread, and you both stayed civil actually, but ended up in upsetting each other. You're entitled to your opinion, so is Facci, so... At the end of the day, it's all in the virtual world. :D

Muslims Flee Britain After Boris's Win - YouTube

Naomi comments on Dec 15, 2019:

Hello. It is easy to play the victim card. It is not Islamophobic to criticize Islam; it is not antisemitic to criticize the Israeli government; it is not anti-Buddhist to criticize Buddhism, and so on.

Naomi replies on Dec 16, 2019:

Hello WilyRickWiles. As you know, in the UK, the Tories and Labour so readily accuse each other of being Islamophobic and antisemitic. Many people don't seem to know the difference between Islamist and Muslim, and the difference between Zionist and Semite. If they do, they certainly confuse these terms deliberately for their political agendas. As well as playing the identity victim card, making a generalisation of or blanket attack on a certain group of people is one of my pet hates.

This is Piñatex® - Fabric made from pineapple leaf fibres

Bay0Wulf comments on Dec 15, 2019:

Naomi ... Simply being capable of providing “fibers” is not a sufficient reason for moving to alternate sources. First there has to be adequate and ongoing supplies to support the commercialization of these fibers. Each of the types of fibers you refer to would necessitate their own machines,...

Naomi replies on Dec 15, 2019:

@Bay0Wulf Wool fiber reinforced hard hats! That sounds great! I think it's high time to explore new approaches to environmental conservation and sustainability. And if politics doesn't have to interfere, that will be great (but probably only in an ideal world 🙁). Still, I'm a glass-half-full person. :)

This is Piñatex® - Fabric made from pineapple leaf fibres

Bay0Wulf comments on Dec 15, 2019:

Naomi ... Simply being capable of providing “fibers” is not a sufficient reason for moving to alternate sources. First there has to be adequate and ongoing supplies to support the commercialization of these fibers. Each of the types of fibers you refer to would necessitate their own machines,...

Naomi replies on Dec 15, 2019:

Hello. Not only pineapple leaves, but banana leaves, yam leaves, coconut husks, bamboo leaves also make good textile materials. I would imagine it is easy enough to invent looms for these plant fibers, unless they already exist. In the Philippines, they've been making fabric from pineapple leaves for some 400 years.

This is Piñatex® - Fabric made from pineapple leaf fibres

RobBlair comments on Dec 15, 2019:

$60 per yard vs $18 per yard for faux leather. Didn't see any physical properties to compare (stronger, lighter, abrasion resistant, etc...). Sounds interesting though.

Naomi replies on Dec 15, 2019:

Hello. There is always room for improvement, and it is capitalism that can realise this kind of things.

This is Piñatex® - Fabric made from pineapple leaf fibres

govols comments on Dec 15, 2019:

I think it's the scale-up that makes it hard to bring things like this to market. Somebody has to take a pretty big risk that the suppliers can keep up with production.

Naomi replies on Dec 15, 2019:

Hello. Apparently, banana leaves and coconut husks also make good textile materials. After all, all plants are fibrous. This is a constructive approach, and I like it.

This is Piñatex® - Fabric made from pineapple leaf fibres

KCSantiago comments on Dec 15, 2019:

That is really interesting. I watched this wondering if it might provide some tye of fabric my wife could use in quilting that would not cost an arm and leg, but it looks like this would be too heavy. I will have to do some more research on this. Thanks for the posting!

Naomi replies on Dec 15, 2019:

Hello. Basically, all plants are fibrous. And coconut shells, for example, make a good textile material.

What do you believe creates a safer society?

Naomi comments on Nov 25, 2019:

Hello. In my opinion, people from different cultural backgrounds should be able to live together in the same country happily and safely as long as they all comply with the law and order of that country. I support the ‘When in Rome, Do as the Romans Do’ approach.

Naomi replies on Dec 15, 2019:

If you say so Markrod420. You have no idea. 😂

"The True Story of the Bilderberg Group" and What They May Be Planning Now - Global ResearchGlobal ...

James comments on Dec 15, 2019:

Even a broken clock is right twice a day. What of the Trilateral Commission? Same agenda it would seem: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8q3aa_Q0lus They make a joke of it at the end of the clip but I find it interesting that they even mentioned such things on a major hit show like Barney ...

Naomi replies on Dec 15, 2019:

Hello. Interesting. It sounds kinda plausible. I would like to know more about the resistance movement you talk of. Has it got a name? Any particular group?

"The True Story of the Bilderberg Group" and What They May Be Planning Now - Global ResearchGlobal ...

dmatic comments on Dec 15, 2019:

Not a terrible site. Truth. So, Naomi, you don't believe there is a conspiracy afoot to establish a One-World Government? Seriously? Just wondering, because the evidence is overwhelming.

Naomi replies on Dec 15, 2019:

Hello. I'm not likely to form my opinion based on any conspiracy theory. You seem to believe that a one-world government is going to be established, and you say the evidence is overwhelming. What overwhelming evidence are you talking about, may I ask? I have no idea, honestly!

Step Right Up & Place Your Bets! Wily is now accepting bets in IDW coins that Trump will win in ...

KCSantiago comments on Dec 15, 2019:

To do that I expect I would have to take the wingnut off my block list. No coinage would be worth seeing his mindlessness being posted for all to see again.

Naomi replies on Dec 15, 2019:

Hello. Sorry that you had to block him.

Step Right Up & Place Your Bets! Wily is now accepting bets in IDW coins that Trump will win in ...

SpikeTalon comments on Dec 14, 2019:

What side is he betting on... the dark side?

Naomi replies on Dec 15, 2019:

Of course!

Step Right Up & Place Your Bets! Wily is now accepting bets in IDW coins that Trump will win in ...

AndrewInVail comments on Dec 14, 2019:

I placed a bet there that anyone can get in on.

Naomi replies on Dec 15, 2019:

Good on you!

Step Right Up & Place Your Bets! Wily is now accepting bets in IDW coins that Trump will win in ...

AndrewInVail comments on Dec 14, 2019:

I placed a bet there that anyone can get in on.

Naomi replies on Dec 15, 2019:

Good on you!

GaMbLiNg ThReAd Now accepting bets in IDW coins that Trump will win in 2020.

dmatic comments on Dec 14, 2019:

Curious, Wily, how'd you get so many coins? By my calculations, you only have 24 coins left to gamble with. If you get near poverty, just let me know and I'll send you some to keep you going....if I can figure out how to do that. :)

Naomi replies on Dec 14, 2019:

He's confident that he's gonna win loooots of coins!

GaMbLiNg ThReAd Now accepting bets in IDW coins that Trump will win in 2020.

dmatic comments on Dec 14, 2019:

I'll take 3322 coins, then, to your 3322. If Trump is still alive and runs, he will win. If any of your comrades manage to assassinate him before, the bet is off!

Naomi replies on Dec 14, 2019:

@dmatic Likewise. Good on him, indeed!

GaMbLiNg ThReAd Now accepting bets in IDW coins that Trump will win in 2020.

dmatic comments on Dec 14, 2019:

I'll take 3322 coins, then, to your 3322. If Trump is still alive and runs, he will win. If any of your comrades manage to assassinate him before, the bet is off!

Naomi replies on Dec 14, 2019:

Good on you, dmatic!

Yaron Answers: How can the philosophy of Objectivism be reconciled with democracy? [youtube.com]

Naomi comments on Dec 14, 2019:

Hello. After YB said he was against democracy, he kind of diverged to talk about individual property right. What better alternative to democracy does he suggest, do you know?

Naomi replies on Dec 14, 2019:

@AndrewInVail When they had the referendum on Brexit in the UK in 2016, Leave won by such a narrow margin (52% Leave, 48% Remain) that many argued that it wasn't democratic enough to say that the majority won. I wonder if YB would've agreed, and in that case, what he would've suggested should've happened - a second referendum, maybe?

[youtu.be]

Naomi comments on Dec 14, 2019:

Hello. Ancient China was very different from modern-day China. They invented many things which led to many technologies that are available today. This link is for a school project, but it lists top 20 Chinese inventions. https://china.usc.edu/sites/default/files/forums/Chinese%20Inventions.pdf...

Naomi replies on Dec 14, 2019:

@DesireNoDesires Bad karma.

[youtu.be]

Naomi comments on Dec 14, 2019:

Hello. Ancient China was very different from modern-day China. They invented many things which led to many technologies that are available today. This link is for a school project, but it lists top 20 Chinese inventions. https://china.usc.edu/sites/default/files/forums/Chinese%20Inventions.pdf...

Naomi replies on Dec 14, 2019:

@DesireNoDesires You may be interested in this site. https://www.ancient.eu/china/ You can also follow it on FB. It tells how ancient civilisations thrived and eventually fell.

GaMbLiNg ThReAd Now accepting bets in IDW coins that Trump will win in 2020.

JimbobNE comments on Dec 14, 2019:

I couldn't place a bet, because right now our nation is in flux and a significant need story, manufactured or true, could swing enough votes to make a landslide for either side. Right now Trump is a good bet, but it will take 11 months to be sure.

Naomi replies on Dec 14, 2019:

Hello. Go on, just for fun!

GaMbLiNg ThReAd Now accepting bets in IDW coins that Trump will win in 2020.

RobBlair comments on Dec 14, 2019:

OK, 1,000 IDW coins that Trump will win against your 1,000 coins.

Naomi replies on Dec 14, 2019:

That's the spirit, sir! 🤣

[youtu.be]

Naomi comments on Dec 14, 2019:

Hello. Ancient China was very different from modern-day China. They invented many things which led to many technologies that are available today. This link is for a school project, but it lists top 20 Chinese inventions. https://china.usc.edu/sites/default/files/forums/Chinese%20Inventions.pdf...

Naomi replies on Dec 14, 2019:

@DesireNoDesires Agreed. When people are wrapped up in politics, they can only look at other countries through a political lens. There are many westerners who talk of Asia, Africa and the Middle East with contempt. It is the arrogance of the West that is evident, I dare say.

[youtu.be]

Naomi comments on Dec 14, 2019:

Hello. Ancient China was very different from modern-day China. They invented many things which led to many technologies that are available today. This link is for a school project, but it lists top 20 Chinese inventions. https://china.usc.edu/sites/default/files/forums/Chinese%20Inventions.pdf...

Naomi replies on Dec 14, 2019:

@DesireNoDesires I'm glad to know that you're open-minded enough to look outside the West. Ancient India is also interesting - apparently, the concept of zero/nothing was developed by the ancient Indians.

[youtu.be]

Rosary_Trace comments on Dec 13, 2019:

And yet they can't inovate without stealing technology from the west.

Naomi replies on Dec 14, 2019:

Hello dd54. Not sure why you have to relate modern politics to this video; the video is about an ancient Chinese technology. Here are top 20 ancient Chinese inventions. I think they're great, don't you? https://china.usc.edu/sites/default/files/forums/Chinese%20Inventions.pdf

[youtu.be]

Rosary_Trace comments on Dec 13, 2019:

And yet they can't inovate without stealing technology from the west.

Naomi replies on Dec 14, 2019:

Hello. The video is about an ancient Chinese technology.

And continued bullshit like this, GUARANTEES a Landslide for the GOP in '20, that will make the UK's...

A3an comments on Dec 14, 2019:

I am new to IDW. If I see this kind of language, shortly you can skip the I and go back to Quora.

Naomi replies on Dec 14, 2019:

Hello. You're right about his language. 😂 But stick around for a while. You'll soon find who is truly unpleasant and who isn't. JackStraw is all right. I like Quora, too, by the way.

The UK election wasn't a victory for the right.

DonProvolone comments on Dec 13, 2019:

I gotta say, it IS sad to see the Left in the UK, devolve into the blathering idiots we have here in the States, insofar as candidates, and their complete bashing of all things conservative go. Labour lost the Election for Labour. Like Hitlery's mouth lost her bid.

Naomi replies on Dec 13, 2019:

Yes, JackStraw70, I remember. :)

The UK election wasn't a victory for the right.

DonProvolone comments on Dec 13, 2019:

I gotta say, it IS sad to see the Left in the UK, devolve into the blathering idiots we have here in the States, insofar as candidates, and their complete bashing of all things conservative go. Labour lost the Election for Labour. Like Hitlery's mouth lost her bid.

Naomi replies on Dec 13, 2019:

@JackHammel, @JackStraw70 It was sensational when Jeremy Corbyn became the new leader of the Labour Party and he was an inspiration to thousands of young people. But his lack of leadership became more evident as the party became more divided; at this general election, many loyal Labour supporters voted for the Tories, for the very first time, and 60 Labour MPs lost their seats. They're blaming Corbyn for their failures, and he is blaming Brexit and media for his failure. Victims and bad losers all around. I feel sad to see the Labour Party falling like this, to be honest.

Johnson in, Corbyn out. For better or worse, time to move on.

ScottforKing comments on Dec 13, 2019:

This in the country that took on Hitler and won! How can the British be afraid of the future, the land of Smith and Edmund Burke will prevail and be better off with more liberty and freedom.

Naomi replies on Dec 13, 2019:

Hello. I am disappointed with all the political parties in the UK. They all seem too busy playing political wrestles among themselves to listen to the very people who they are supposed to serve. My English friends tell me that there used to be "conviction politicians", but no longer. Sad.

Johnson in, Corbyn out. For better or worse, time to move on.

Kravman2 comments on Dec 13, 2019:

With such a majority Johnson doesn’t have to pander to the whims of everyone in the party and there is no opposition in Parliament to prevent him pushing anything through. Also he has a mandate, if the EU adopt a fundamentalist hardline, to simply walk away. The ball is in his court, let’s see ...

Naomi replies on Dec 13, 2019:

Hello. Indeed. Three and a half years of limbo has taken its toll on us all, and this election claimed many huge casualties, e.g., Anna Soubry, Dominic Grieve, Caroline Flint, Chuka Umunna, etc. It was a poor choice between Johnson and Corbyn but it had to be done. We can only witness how well or badly Johnson will perform - sigh.

This is our current UK Shadow Home Secretary.

JackHammel comments on Dec 12, 2019:

Have you seen the question time with Diane Abbot and Jordan Peterson?

Naomi replies on Dec 12, 2019:

Hello Clarken. She is actually quite popular in her constituency, but she's becoming weirder and weirder...

Johnson in, Corbyn out. For better or worse, time to move on.

govols comments on Dec 12, 2019:

Watching with interest. This really is a big deal. For better or worse.....

Naomi replies on Dec 12, 2019:

Hello. The Labour Party has already ditched their leader, Corbyn, so to speak. Politicians are ruthless.

Johnson in, Corbyn out. For better or worse, time to move on.

timon_phocas comments on Dec 12, 2019:

Interesting. Let's see what kind of Brexit he can get you.

Naomi replies on Dec 12, 2019:

Hello pbuck0145. We'll see.

Johnson in, Corbyn out. For better or worse, time to move on.

SidGruich comments on Dec 12, 2019:

Anybody have an opinion on what the House of Lords will do?

Naomi replies on Dec 12, 2019:

Hello. That's a good question. I don't know! Lol

Johnson in, Corbyn out. For better or worse, time to move on.

govols comments on Dec 12, 2019:

Watching with interest. This really is a big deal. For better or worse.....

Naomi replies on Dec 12, 2019:

Thank you RCGibb for your kind words.

This is our current UK Shadow Home Secretary.

JackHammel comments on Dec 12, 2019:

Have you seen the question time with Diane Abbot and Jordan Peterson?

Naomi replies on Dec 12, 2019:

Yes. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SMyubXDv8Ac

I know I'm soppy! Lonely at Christmas: Terrence surprised with a tree - BBC News

MarieBabik comments on Dec 12, 2019:

NIce, feel good story, .sidenote, table top trees the small 2 feet ones are nice, .I have always has 6 + feet trees, until 4 yrs ago , now I opt for the smaller trees for a reason, .they fit better anywhere...

Naomi replies on Dec 12, 2019:

@MarieBabik I must admit that I prefer animals to humans, too.

I know I'm soppy! Lonely at Christmas: Terrence surprised with a tree - BBC News

MarieBabik comments on Dec 12, 2019:

NIce, feel good story, .sidenote, table top trees the small 2 feet ones are nice, .I have always has 6 + feet trees, until 4 yrs ago , now I opt for the smaller trees for a reason, .they fit better anywhere...

Naomi replies on Dec 12, 2019:

Hello. Just a little bit of humanity, isn't it? I wonder how many people would think I'm virtue-signaling, though. That would be the typical reaction nowadays. Sad that.

The Tokyo Trials [youtu.be]

Naomi comments on Dec 12, 2019:

Hello. I find it is an interesting premise that only the leaders of countries that lost wars are charged as war criminals.

Naomi replies on Dec 12, 2019:

Hello David42. Yes, from their perspective. Interesting, no?

Hello.

govols comments on Dec 12, 2019:

@Naomi, below is a link to a new interview/conversation between Benjamin Boyce and Stephen Hicks. It's really good because Hicks takes Postmodern Thought out of scare quotes and does some pretty damned good analytics into its foundations, permutations, and useful applications. Toward the end they ...

Naomi replies on Dec 12, 2019:

Sounds great, thank you! I'll definitely watch it tonight.

Myanmar Rohingya: Suu Kyi rejects genocide claims at UN court - BBC News

DrN1 comments on Dec 12, 2019:

Divide and Rule.

Naomi replies on Dec 12, 2019:

@DrN1 I was sharing this essay with someone a while ago. https://www.nas.org/academic-questions/31/2/the_case_for_colonialism I don't think that the writer is promoting colonialism; nuance and context are important, I think. I find the idea of colonisation "with the consent of the colonised" interesting. India is a good example, no?

Myanmar Rohingya: Suu Kyi rejects genocide claims at UN court - BBC News

DrN1 comments on Dec 12, 2019:

Divide and Rule.

Naomi replies on Dec 12, 2019:

Morning. Have you read this article? How little we know! https://foreignpolicy.com/2019/10/31/rohingya-refugees-myanmar-attacking-buddhists-rakhine/ And there are "Buddhist extremists" in Myanmar - am I missing something here? Those two words don't seem to go very well together. Lol

Myanmar Rohingya: Suu Kyi rejects genocide claims at UN court - BBC News

EricJohnson comments on Dec 11, 2019:

referring any Myanmar with the title U is an honorific in their language. since the UN has taken up the case Burmese students that opposed military dictatorship now support the military. #Rohingya #UN

Naomi replies on Dec 11, 2019:

@EricJohnson Hey, that's interesting. How come?

Myanmar Rohingya: Suu Kyi rejects genocide claims at UN court - BBC News

EricJohnson comments on Dec 11, 2019:

referring any Myanmar with the title U is an honorific in their language. since the UN has taken up the case Burmese students that opposed military dictatorship now support the military. #Rohingya #UN

Naomi replies on Dec 11, 2019:

Hello. It is so complicated that I can't form an opinion. I heard Suu Kyi say that the West can be opinionated while it is impossible for outsiders to see exactly what is going on in Myanmar, or something along those lines. True. It is said that it isn’t just the Rohingya; Myanmar is now attacking Buddhists in Rakhine State, too. https://foreignpolicy.com/2019/10/31/rohingya-refugees-myanmar-attacking-buddhists-rakhine/ It's ironic that once a vigorous human rights activist is now accused of genocide.

"Let's look at Marx as a thinker (i.e., not as the father of communism)." I like this professor.

govols comments on Dec 5, 2019:

How go the lessons?

Naomi replies on Dec 11, 2019:

@govols It's not my cup of tea, either. I actually don't like romantic stories very much. I prefer black humour, that sort of things. Flaubert revolted against his own romanticism, and the novel reflects his revolt, and that I find interesting.

"Let's look at Marx as a thinker (i.e., not as the father of communism)." I like this professor.

govols comments on Dec 5, 2019:

How go the lessons?

Naomi replies on Dec 11, 2019:

I've got to Modernism and Art for Art 's Sake. I found Madame Bovary by Gustave Flaubert Full Audiobook on YouTube. The reader's voice is not the loveliest in the world, but it's OK (and it's free!). Understanding the background (Flaubert's revolt against his own romanticism) a little, I can appreciate the novel a little better.

TruthFollower: the article is short, but the lead photo is hilarious [truthfollower.com]

CookieMonster comments on Dec 10, 2019:

Who needs 17 browsers open? But yea a good one.

Naomi replies on Dec 10, 2019:

@CookieMonster Someone who needs 17 browsers open. Lol

I stopped using plastic-containing teabags and have been using loose tea leaves, but I can't deny ...

RobBlair comments on Dec 10, 2019:

Bigelow Earl Grey tea bags are made from wood fiber with a cotton string. Phew! Twinings EB may have plastic? Seems like paper to me. Each are wrapped in foil for freshness.

Naomi replies on Dec 10, 2019:

Plastic-free teabags are more expensive than conventional ones at the moment, but once everyone else follows suit, prices will soon come down. I prefer doing my share in small but steady ways rather than picking up a placard. :P

I stopped using plastic-containing teabags and have been using loose tea leaves, but I can't deny ...

govols comments on Dec 10, 2019:

I didn't know tea bags had plastic. I wonder if coffee filters do.

Naomi replies on Dec 10, 2019:

Hello. I use paper coffee filters.

What are your gut feelings? Trump impeachment: Democrats unveil formal charges - BBC News

RCGibb comments on Dec 10, 2019:

This has been the plan for 3 years, the threat has been used to try and disrupt the Trump administration from the beginning. This however is only part of the story, we will hear another related aspect this week as the IG report is reviewed. Wondering how that will turn out, the number of viewers of ...

Naomi replies on Dec 10, 2019:

@RCGibb I would say we have a mirror image of what you're saying in the UK and Europe.

What are your gut feelings? Trump impeachment: Democrats unveil formal charges - BBC News

RCGibb comments on Dec 10, 2019:

This has been the plan for 3 years, the threat has been used to try and disrupt the Trump administration from the beginning. This however is only part of the story, we will hear another related aspect this week as the IG report is reviewed. Wondering how that will turn out, the number of viewers of ...

Naomi replies on Dec 10, 2019:

@RCGibb "Integrity" - Sadly, it maybe a dead word nowadays. :(

What are your gut feelings? Trump impeachment: Democrats unveil formal charges - BBC News

Bloodsyckleraven comments on Dec 10, 2019:

Here’s what’s happening: this isn’t political. It’s petty and personal. The libtard democrats hate him so much that they want to slander his name in the history books. This isn’t about upholding the constitution or even a political move to remove him from office. We all know that ...

Naomi replies on Dec 10, 2019:

Thanks for your strong sentiment.

Saudi Arabia Culture is Changing - Saudi Arabia ends gender-segregated entrances for restaurants

amyrs comments on Dec 10, 2019:

This is a step in the right direction that will help some smaller establishments but I don't see this having much of an overall impact unless the citizens culturally change also.

Naomi replies on Dec 10, 2019:

Hello. Culture evolves. Civilisation develops. Only time can tell. :)

What are your gut feelings? Trump impeachment: Democrats unveil formal charges - BBC News

RCGibb comments on Dec 10, 2019:

This has been the plan for 3 years, the threat has been used to try and disrupt the Trump administration from the beginning. This however is only part of the story, we will hear another related aspect this week as the IG report is reviewed. Wondering how that will turn out, the number of viewers of ...

Naomi replies on Dec 10, 2019:

Hello. I was also reading this article. https://www.bloomberg.com/opinion/articles/2019-12-10/ig-report-debunks-donald-trump-s-conspiracy-theories Interesting to observe from the outside (without being disrespectful).

TruthFollower: the article is short, but the lead photo is hilarious [truthfollower.com]

CookieMonster comments on Dec 10, 2019:

Who needs 17 browsers open? But yea a good one.

Naomi replies on Dec 10, 2019:

Hi. 😁

I came across this article in "Lion's Roar".

DrN1 comments on Dec 10, 2019:

Buddhism is a philosophy, not a religion, religion and politics seek to bend truth to their own ends, including the truths espoused by the Buddha, the Buddha was also human, and went down several false paths on his quest for enlightenment. If Buddhist philosophy is valid or true there is no such ...

Naomi replies on Dec 10, 2019:

@DrN1 Yes, I know that story! I don't mean to be disrespectful, but I must confess that when I read about it I chuckled, especially when I had a picture of him in my head, saying "Right, that's it. It's not working. Forget it." 😂

I came across this article in "Lion's Roar".

DrN1 comments on Dec 10, 2019:

Buddhism is a philosophy, not a religion, religion and politics seek to bend truth to their own ends, including the truths espoused by the Buddha, the Buddha was also human, and went down several false paths on his quest for enlightenment. If Buddhist philosophy is valid or true there is no such ...

Naomi replies on Dec 10, 2019:

@DrN1 Remember you posted this a while ago? The first state of enlightenment.

I came across this article in "Lion's Roar".

DrN1 comments on Dec 10, 2019:

Buddhism is a philosophy, not a religion, religion and politics seek to bend truth to their own ends, including the truths espoused by the Buddha, the Buddha was also human, and went down several false paths on his quest for enlightenment. If Buddhist philosophy is valid or true there is no such ...

Naomi replies on Dec 10, 2019:

Hello. This is an interesting article discussing whether Buddhism is a philosophy or religion. https://www.huffpost.com/entry/is-buddhism-a-philosophy-_b_10176992?guccounter=1=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8=AQAAAJAkQ7-uBSnn6WelX-F-iXEcWB16Oe0J8W91cl6kQ0T-ZnSWjywb4yjInaM3jHxyQbdsGSramGG9qvaULFGfTQLwPdJuYPbZELG8R6dVzLseyl2jGsJ9cSLffPAY3zzOCVSvU6_pe-2zShyhEn1Whl8bUaACTDT9zAMNtjFa-voo I know a tiny bit about Japanese history and it is noticeable how Buddhism played a major role in politics as a powerful organised religion (religious institution). https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2055.html Interesting, no?

I came across this article in "Lion's Roar".

Naomi comments on Dec 10, 2019:

Hello. Religion and politics go hand in hand, don't they, though it's not always the case, and Buddhism is no exception. It becomes evident once you become familiar with Asian history that Buddhists are no saints - sad that. I think any religious belief should be kept personal.

Naomi replies on Dec 10, 2019:

@mindmuser Agreed. Meanwhile, I find it interesting to learn about different religions, from the anthropological viewpoint, for example.