Two influential groups with different visions for America are described by David Spangler in his recent essay AMERICA AND THE ELECTION. One group envisions America as an inclusive, pluralistic nation, aligned with the principles in the Declaration of Independence, seeing power residing in individuals. The other group emphasizes structure, hierarchy, and American exceptionalism, viewing the nation as a guiding “parent” to other countries. Both hold an element of truth and “neither group can force anyone to believe or do anything. They can inspire, and they can offer energy to those who resonate with their perspective, but the choice rests with us,” says Spangler.

Spangler also identifies a third group, in agreement with Thomas L. Friedman, as explained in our previous post.

There are also those in the shadowy dimensions of human energy whose motives have little to do with spirit and much to do with division, separation, and destruction. They have no interest in any form of spiritual destiny for America—or for any other nation. They work to tear down, to manipulate, and to control, and they feed off anger, hatred, fear, and suffering. They have little or no interest in the good of any larger whole but only in meeting their own selfish needs and hungers. This group, if I may call it such, is an expression of humanity’s karma and its shadow and is not particular to any single nation, Party, or people. Its influence is international and seeks only to diminish or extinguish the Light. It can work through tyranny and structure and through anarchy and the mob. Its identity is Chaos.

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The externalization of the planetary spiritual Hierarchy and the reappearance of the World Teacher requires a transformation of the democratic ideal of governance. Between the extremes of absolute freedom (anarchy) and authoritarian governance (fascism) lies the Noble Middle Path of a Hierarchical Democracy.

A Hierarchical Democracy needs an enlightened meritocracy of servers qualified by spiritual training and experience, and the free and fully informed (good) will of an enlightened public, adept in self-rule and right human relations. What do we mean by “qualified by spiritual training” and by “adept in self-rule and right human relations”?

The advice of the Tibetan Master about spiritual training on the right use of power and authority, so much needed to govern in a Hierarchical Democracy, and so much lacking in many political leaders today, may provide answers to these questions. It is evident that this spiritual advice runs contrary — as it should — to the agenda of the regressive Forces of Darkness promoting “division, separation, and destruction” in a Chaotic Democracy.

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The Illusion of Power and the Glamor of Authority

Extracted from Glamour: A World Problem
by the Tibetan Master

“Let us illustrate my point from two angles, both of which are entirely in the realm of discipleship, or encountered upon the Path of Probation. We will call them the “illusion of power” and the “glamour of authority.” This form of words will show you that one is to be encountered upon the astral plane and the other upon the mental.

“The Glamour of Authority is a mass glamour in most cases. It has its roots in mass psychology and is one of the indications that humanity is at the nursery stage as yet, wherein men are safeguarded from themselves by the imposition of some rule, some set of laws, some authoritative dictum, emanating from state control, from the rule of an oligarchy, or from the dictatorship of some individual. It reduces mankind, as far as one can judge, to set forms and standardizes men’s activities, regimenting their lives [Page 46] and work. It is imposed and ordered through catering to the fear complex, rampant in humanity at this time; and this fear is one of the most fruitful sources of glamour which we have. We might perhaps and with reason regard it as the seed of all glamour upon our planet. Fear has been the incentive to those conditions which have brought about the glamour of the astral plane, though not the illusions of the mental levels of consciousness.

“When the glamour of authority transfers itself into the spiritual consciousness of man, we have such a state of affairs as the period of the Inquisition in its worst forms, of Church authority, with the emphasis upon organization, government and penalties, or the unquestioned rule of some teacher. In its highest forms we have the recognition of the right of the solar Angel, of the soul or ego, to rule. Between these two extremes, which express the infancy of the race and the freedom which comes when mankind achieves its majority and the freedom of the soul, lie all the many types and kinds of intermediate reactions.“

[…]

“The Illusion of Power is perhaps one of the first and most serious tests which comes to an aspirant. It is also one of the best examples of this “great mistake,” and I [Page 52] therefore bring it to your attention as being one against which I beg you most carefully to guard yourself. It is rare indeed for any disciple to escape the effects of this error of illusion for it is, curiously, based upon right success and right motive. Hence the specious nature of the problem. It might be expressed thus:

“An aspirant succeeds in contacting his soul or ego through right effort. Through meditation, good intention, and correct technique, plus the desire to serve and to love, he achieves alignment. He becomes then aware of the results of his successful work. His mind is illumined. A sense of power flows through his vehicles. He is, temporarily at least, made aware of the Plan. The need of the world and the capacity of the soul to meet that need flood his consciousness. His dedication, consecration and right purpose enhance the directed inflow of spiritual energy. He knows. He loves. He seeks to serve, and does all three more or less successfully. The result of all this is that he becomes more engrossed with the sense of power, and with the part he is to play in aiding humanity, than he is with the realisation of a due and proper sense of proportion and of spiritual values. He over-estimates his experience and himself. Instead of redoubling his efforts and thus establishing a closer contact with the kingdom of souls and loving all beings more deeply, he begins to call attention to himself, to the mission he is to develop, and to the confidence that the Master and even the planetary Logos apparently have in him. He talks about himself; he gestures and attracts notice, demanding recognition. As he does so, his alignment is steadily impaired; his contact lessens and he joins the ranks of the many who have succumbed to the illusion of sensed power. This form of illusion is becoming increasingly prevalent among disciples and those who have taken the first two initiations. There are today many people in the world who have taken the first [Page 53] initiation in a previous life. At some period in the present life cycle, recurring and recapitulating as it does the events of an earlier development, they again reach a point in their realization which they earlier reached. The significance of their attainment pours in upon them, and the sense of their responsibility and their knowledge. Again they over-estimate themselves, regarding their missions and themselves as unique among the sons of men, and their esoteric and subjective demand for recognition enters in and spoils what might otherwise have been a fruitful service. Any emphasis upon the personality can distort most easily the pure light of the soul as it seeks to pour through the lower self. Any effort to call attention to the mission or task which the personality has undertaken detracts from that mission and handicaps the man in his task; it leads to the deferring of its fulfilment until such time when the disciple can be naught but a channel through which love can pour, and light can shine. This pouring through and shining forth has to be a spontaneous happening, and contain no self-reference.

“These two illustrations of glamour and of illusion will show you not only the subtlety of the problem, but also the urgent need for its recognition. There are today so many manifesting these two qualities of the lower nature.”

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About the two “alternative worlds” envisioned by Spangler in his essay, we may also benefit from the Tibetan Master’s advice on the dangers of “a world in which the United States proves itself to be the controlling factor,” and the benefits of a new multipolar world order, “a world divided into blocs for mutual aid and economic sharing.”

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WORK IN THE COMING DECADES

Extracted from The Externalisation of the Hierarchy
by the Tibetan Master

April 1948

Spiritual workers should face the various world alternatives:

1. An all-dominant Russia …

2. A world in which all nations live in an armed armistice …

3. A world in which the United States proves itself to be the controlling factor, after wiping out Russia, which she can well do if she acts now. It will be a predominantly capitalistic world, run by several nations but headed by the United States. A capitalistic nation is not necessarily wrong; capital has its place, and Russia (the enemy of capitalism) is by no means free from capitalistic bias. The motives of the United States are very mixed motives: greed of money or its equivalent, such as oil, and at the same time sincerely good intentions for the establishment of human freedom in a democratic world—modelled, of course, on American democracy. Other motives are an appreciation of the armed fist and, at [Page 639] the same time, a longing for economic sharing and for that essential kindness which is such a strong American characteristic—a mass characteristic. These mixed motives will produce eventually a very confused world, one in which it will be found that humanity has learned very little as the result of the World War (1914-1945) and is acquiescent to the cycle of well-intentioned money control.

4. A world divided into “blocs” for mutual aid and economic sharing. There is nothing intrinsically wrong in any group of nations standing together for mutual aid and economic cooperation. The wrong factor comes in when they stand united against any other group of nations, and therefore against any group of human beings. It is this attitude, engineered and fostered by Russia, which has lead to the relatively new concept of blocs against. Along this line, and with this attitude of antagonistic groupings, only disaster can lie.

Blocs in themselves can be good and proper if they follow lines of natural cleavages, of language differences and of cultural distinctions. They can be essentially right if they are formed for economic, educational, religious and social aims and can therefore provide no true cause for alarm. Such blocs would be cultural and not militaristic, economic and not greedy, and they could provide a normal and progressive movement away from the separative nationalism of the past and towards the distant creation of the One World, and the One Humanity. This will some day be seen, but the time is not yet. Mankind is not ready for some super-government [written in 1948], nor can it yet provide the unselfish and trained statesmen that such a government would require. As yet, there are more seeds of danger in this concept than there are of helpfulness. Nevertheless, it is a dream which will some day materialize, after the creation and the functioning of blocs have proved how men should work and live together.

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The United Nations, the Christ, the Will of God, and the Avatar of Synthesis

Owing to the stupendous task confronting Christ, the Avatar of Synthesis will fortify Him, and He will be buttressed by this “Silent Avatar” Who (to speak symbolically) will “keep His eye upon Him, His hand beneath Him and His heart in unison with His.”

This Being is closely related to the Will Aspect of divinity, and His cooperation has been made possible through Christ’s Own attainment along the line of the highest, spiritual will. He works under the great natural Law of Synthesis, producing at-one-ment, unification and fusion. His function (in unison with the energy of Christ) is to generate spiritual will in humanity, the will-to-good; His potency works in three fields of activity at this time:

a. Within the spiritual Hierarchy itself, revealing the nature of the divine will-to-good which the Kingdom of God must express, and the nature also of divine Purpose.

b. Within the Assembly of the United Nations, though not within the Security Council; He is there generating a slowly growing will-to-unity.

c. Within the masses of men everywhere, fostering the urge to a general betterment.

His activity is necessarily a mass activity, for He can only channel His energies through the mass consciousness or through a group conscious entity, such as the Hierarchy, the United Nations or Humanity. The focal point of His effort and the Agent through which distribution of His energy can be made is the New Group of World Servers; [Page 78] this group is uniquely related to this Avatar of Synthesis. The bringing together of all the agents of goodwill (who are responsive to the energy of the divine will-to-good) constitutes the major objective of the New Group of World Servers and always has been. Their work can now be constructively and creatively intensified through the association of the Avatar of Synthesis with the Christ. Their task is to usher in the New Age; in that New Age, the five Kingdoms in Nature will begin to function as one creative whole. Their work falls into the following parts, functions or activities:

a. The production of a human synthesis or unity which will lead to an universal recognition of the one humanity, brought about through right human relations.
b. The establishing of right relations with the subhuman kingdoms in nature, leading to the universal recognition that there is One World.
c. The anchoring of the Kingdom of God, the spiritual Hierarchy of our planet, in open expression on Earth, thus leading to the universal recognition that the sons of men are one.

These objectives the Avatar of Synthesis will foster and aid and for this purpose He has associated Himself with the Christ, working through the Hierarchy, under instruction from the “centre where the will of God is known.” These three related events and distributing points of energy have all come into activity during the point of tension in which Christ and the Hierarchy are at this time held. They all serve to re-direct and focus energy in relation to humanity, for all are the result of the decision made by Christ after His point of crisis, and are all connected [Page 79] with the hierarchical preparation for Christ’s reappearance.

-Extract of a statement by the Tibetan Master through Alice A. Bailey in the book The Reappearance of the Christ published by Lucis Trust

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[JB: Two major structural flaws of the UN were foreseen by the planetary spiritual Hierarchy since its foundation. They were the recommendation to create the Zionist state of Israel, and the admission of a totalitarian state, Russia, among its members. /JB]

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The UN Charter thrashed

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[JB: The previous quotes by the Tibetan Master, a Representative of the planetary spiritual Hierarchy, were written before 1950. These quotes explain “the trouble which the United Nations today faces.” However, the way out of this trouble today is not thrashing the UN Charter but, rather, amending it to become better aligned to its founding principles.

For instance, the veto power of the Security Council could be revoked by a supermajority of the General Assembly. A two-third, three-fourth or four-fifth majority in the General Assembly, according to criteria to be agreed upon, would be required to override the veto power of an expanded and representative Security Council. Under such amended UN Chart, i) a two-state solution for the Israel-Palestine conflict could be enforced by the UN General Assembly, ii) to remain as bona fide members of the community of nations, all totalitarian states would be required to transition to UN-verified democracies supporting the Four Freedoms, and iii) all countries would be required to give up their nuclear weapons, with the UN Security Council being charged with enforcing and verifying their destruction, eradicating the threat of humanity’s extinction. /JB]

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World Unity

There is no counsel of perfection to give the world or any solution which will carry immediate relief. To the spiritual leaders of the race certain lines of action seem right and to guarantee constructive attitudes.

1. The United Nations, through its Assembly and Committees, must be supported; there is as yet no other organization to which man can hopefully look. Therefore, he must support the United Nations but, at the same time, let this group of world leaders know what is needed.

2. The general public in every nation must be educated in right human relations. Above all else, the children and the youth of the world must be taught [177] goodwill to all men everywhere, irrespective of race or creed.

3. Time must be given for the needed adjustments and humanity must learn to be intelligently patient; humanity must face with courage and optimism the slow process of building the new civilization.

4. An intelligent and cooperative public opinion must be developed in every land and the doing of this constitutes a major spiritual duty. This will take much time but if the men of goodwill and if the spiritual people of the world will become genuinely active, it can be done in twenty-five years.

5. The world economic council (or whatever body represents the resources of the world) must free itself from fraudulent politics, capitalistic influence and its devious scheming; it must set the resources of the earth free for the use of humanity. This will be a lengthy task but it will be possible when world need is better appreciated. An enlightened public opinion will make the decisions of the economic council practical and possible. Sharing and cooperation must be taught instead of greed and competition.

6. There must be freedom to travel everywhere in any direction and in any country; by means of this free intercourse, members of the human family may get to know each other and to appreciate each other; passports and visas should be discontinued because they are symbols of the great heresy of separateness.

7. The men of goodwill everywhere must be mobilized and set to work; it is upon their efforts that the future of humanity depends; they exist in their millions everywhere and—when organized and mobilized—represent a vast section of the thinking public.

It will be through the steady, consistent and organized work of the men of goodwill throughout the world that world unity will be brought about. At present, [178] such men are only in process of organizing and are apt to feel that the work to be done is so stupendous and the forces arrayed against them are so great that their—at present—isolated efforts are useless to break down the barriers of greed and hate with which they are confronted. They realize that there is as yet no systemized spread of the principle of goodwill which holds the solution to the world problem; they have as yet no idea of the numerical strength of those who are thinking as they do. They ask themselves the same questions which are agitating the minds of men everywhere: How can order be restored? How can there be fair distribution of the world’s resources? How can the Four Freedoms become factual and not just beautiful dreams? How can true religion be resurrected and the ways of true spiritual living govern the hearts of men? How can a true prosperity be established which will be the result of unity, peace and plenty?

There is only one true way and there are indications that it is a way towards which many millions of people are turning. Unity and right human relations—individual, communal, national and international—can be brought about by the united action of the men and women of goodwill in every country.

These men and women of goodwill must be found and organized and thus discover their numerical potency—for it is there. They must form a world group, standing for right human relations and educating the public in the nature and power of goodwill. They will thus create a world public opinion which will be so forceful and so outspoken on the side of human welfare that leaders, statesmen, politicians, businessmen and churchmen will be forced to listen and comply. Steadily and regularly, the general public must be taught an internationalism and a world unity which is based on simple goodwill and on cooperative interdependence. [179]

This is no mystical or impractical program; it does not work through the processes of exposing, undermining or attack; it emphasizes the new politics, i.e., politics which are based upon the principle of bringing about right human relations. Between the exploited and the exploiting, the warmongers and the pacifists, the masses and the rulers, this group of men of goodwill will stand in their organized millions, taking no side, demonstrating no partisan spirit, fomenting no political or religious disturbance and feeding no hatreds. They will not be a negative body but a positive group, interpreting the meaning of right human relations, standing for the oneness of humanity and for practical, but not theoretical, brotherhood. The propagation of these ideas by all available means and the spread of the principle of goodwill will produce a powerful organized international group. Public opinion will be forced to recognize the potency of the movement; eventually the numerical strength of the men and women of goodwill in the world will be so great that they will influence world events. Their united voice will be heard on behalf of right human relations.

This movement is already gathering momentum. In many lands this plan for the formation of a group of people who are trained in goodwill and who possess clear insight into the principles which should govern human relations in world affairs is already past the blueprint stage. The nucleus for this work is present today. Their functions might be summarized as follows:

1. To restore world confidence by letting it be known how much goodwill—organized and unorganized—there is in the world today.

2. To educate the masses in the principles and the practice of goodwill. The word “goodwill” is largely [180] used at this time by all parties and groups, national and international.

3. To synthesize and coordinate into one functioning whole all the men and women of goodwill in the world who will recognize these principles as their personal directing ideal, and who will endeavour to apply them to current world or national events.

4. To create mailing lists in every country of the men and women of goodwill who can be counted upon to stand for world unity, right human relations and who will try—in their own lands—to reach others with this idea, through the medium of the press, the lecture platform and the radio. Eventually this world group should have its own newspaper or magazine, through means of which the educational process can be intensified and goodwill be found to be a universal principle and technique.

5. To provide in every country and eventually in every large city, a central bureau where information will be available concerning the activities of the men and women of goodwill all over the world; of those organizations, groups and parties who are also working along similar lines of international understanding and right human relations. Thus many will find those who will cooperate with them in their particular endeavour to promote world unity.

6. To work, as men and women of goodwill, with all groups who have a world programme which tends to heal world differences and national quarrels and to end racial distinctions. When such groups are found to work constructively and are free from scurrilous attack or aggressive modes of action, and actuated by goodwill to all men and are free from an aggressive nationalism and partisanship, then the cooperation of the men of goodwill can be offered and freely given.

[181] It takes no great effort of the imagination to see that, if this work of spreading goodwill and educating public opinion in its potency is pursued, and if the men of goodwill can be discovered in all lands and organized, that (even in five years’ time) much good can be accomplished. Thousands can be gathered into the ranks of the men of goodwill. This is the initial task. The power of such a group, backed by public opinion, will be tremendous. They can accomplish phenomenal results.

How to use the weight of that goodwill and how to employ the will to establish right human relations will grow gradually out of the work accomplished and meet the need of the world situation. The trained use of power on the side of goodwill and on behalf of right human relations will be demonstrated as possible, and the present unhappy state of world affairs can be changed. This will be done, not through the usual warlike measures of the past or the enforced will of some aggressive or wealthy group, but through the weight of a trained public opinion—an opinion which will be based on goodwill, on an intelligent understanding of the needs of humanity, on a determination to bring about right human relations and on the recognition that the problems with which humanity is today confronted can be solved through goodwill.

-Extract of a statement by the Tibetan Master through Alice A. Bailey in the book The Problems of Humanity published by Lucis Trust

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About 1,200 people were killed during the Hamas-led Oct. 7 assault against Israel, a majority of them civilians, according to the Israeli authorities. Israel’s retaliatory war against Hamas in Gaza has killed more than 23,000 Palestinians, a majority of them women and children, according to Gaza health officials.

Warning of a long conflict, the Israeli statements exposed a growing dissonance between the domestic perception of the timing and goals of the war and increasing international impatience in the face of a deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

https://www.nytimes.com/2024/01/14/world/middleeast/israel-hamas-war-gaza.html

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On the 100th day of a disproportionate vengeful retribution against Palestinian civilians, with inhuman acts of criminal collective punishment conducted with impunity by the Israeli military, the world observes with dismay the complicity with which the United States continues to support crimes of war with taxpayers’ funded offensive weaponry killing Palestinian civilians. This is well beyond the more justifiable support for the defensive Iron Dome.

Of course, using civilians as human shields and taking civilian hostages are also war crimes to be universally condemned without any justification whatsoever, even in an asymmetric warfare. However, the disproportionate death toll of civilians is only comparable to the imbalance of power to negotiate a just and lasting peace between the warring parties. The genocidal rhetoric of Netanyahu and his extreme right coalition adds fuel to the raging fire.

This imbalance of power is the main reason why all previous peace accords between Israel and Palestine have not stood the test of time. This is made clear by Fareed Zakaria’s historical overview in his GPS Special: The Road to War in the Middle East aired on December 24, 2023. 

In the last segment, despite Fareed’s biased question,

Do you think that fundamentally the problem is that the Palestinians, at some point, have not been educated by their leadership to recognize that, look, they’ve lost this long struggle, that they’re not going to get the whole loaf, they’re going to get 22 percent of that loaf? And you have to kind of admit that. And the unwillingness to admit that is — and, you know, the worry that if you admit that you will be assassinated or you’ll get outflanked by Hamas, that that’s been at the core of it, that there isn’t somebody who’s willing to speak honestly to the Palestinians and say, look, this is all we can get?

Fareed Zakaria

the former U.S. Ambassador Edward Djerejian aptly deflects such offensive and patronizing tone, replying instead with wise advice about the course of American diplomacy in this conflict.

At the end of the day there’s 7.2 million Palestinians and 7.2 approximately Israeli Jews in between the Jordan River and the Eastern Mediterranean. Neither one is going to go anywhere. They’re there. They have to divide the land.

Economic peace simply doesn’t work. But that was the trope, and that trope started in the Trump administration and the Biden administration obviously continued that with the normalization. I have nothing against normalization of Arab countries with Israel, but it was done at the cost of neglecting this central issue, the territorial aspects of peace between Israel and Palestine.

First, American diplomacy needs a deep understanding and appreciation of the basic facts on the ground in the Middle East and where the parties are coming from.

Second, we have to have a spine in our diplomacy. We have to be tough on both sides, or else nothing will happen. You know, we started off in 67 Israeli settlements. In U.S. government proclamations, Israeli settlements are illegal under international law, the Geneva Conventions of ’49.

You’ve seen over the years how the verbiage is that, oh, they’re an obstacle to peace, or they’re a problem. No, they’re illegal. The United States [must stand] tall on principle, and we have to do that with both sides: tough on the Arabs; tough on the Israelis. You have to be skillful in your diplomacy also.

The glimmer of hope is that I really do feel that October 7th is so consequential, akin to Yom Kippur in ’73. That the political landscape has changed. I hope one of the major lessons that everyone learns is that you cannot shunt the Palestinian issue aside and make it a secondary or tertiary issue, that you can make economic peace or peace for peace. We have to focus on land for peace.

And let’s make the hard decision to go for it. There’s a lot of diplomatic history in the archives on settlements, on territorial compromises, on Jerusalem, on refugees. There’s a body of negotiations that can be built on. Let’s get the leadership to get it done.

Former U.S. Ambassador Edward Djerejian has been working on diplomacy in the Middle East for more than 50 years. He’s been U.S. Ambassador to Israel, U.S. Ambassador to Syria and the Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs.

May his words and experience light the way for a just and lasting peace in the Middle East. On this 100th day of the War on Gaza, it is made clear that the military option is not a viable alternative for a peace accord among equals. -JB

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A Fareed Zakaria GPS Special: The Road to War in the Middle East

Why has the Israeli–Palestinian conflict been so intractable for so long? Fareed talks with Palestinian scholar Ahmad Khalidi, Israeli historian Benny Morris, former US diplomat Edward Djerejian and more about the attempts, missed chances, and future prospects of establishing a lasting peace in the region. 

https://transcripts.cnn.com/show/fzgps/date/2023-12-24/segment/01

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Ray 1. Will Power. Transmitted through Aries, Leo and Capricorn.

As 2023 comes to an end, I’m struggling to make sense of the current world disorder, focusing on three major threats to our survival: Zionism in the Middle East, the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and the MAGA movement in the United States. They have one common theme: might makes right. They represent causes out of which other evils, such as (Hamas) terrorism, arise. Which makes me wonder, what is power? How can light, love and power restore God’s Plan on Earth?

In the context of the Capricorn full moon period overlapping Sol Invictus observance this Christmas season, let’s review current thought forms created by humanity on this subject, and how can they can be repurposed for a future of right human relations, goodwill and peace on Earth.

-JB

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Two key theories of international relations

Structural realism, also known as neorealism, and human nature realism, often referred to as classical realism, are two key theories within the field of international relations. They share a common premise that states exist in an anarchic international system and that they act primarily out of self-interest. However, they differ significantly in their explanations for why this is the case.

Structural Realism (Neorealism): Structural realism, as articulated by theorists like Kenneth Waltz, posits that the behavior of states is determined by the anarchic structure of the international system¹. In this system, there’s no overarching authority above the state, making security a primary concern. States, according to structural realists, are rational actors that seek to survive by maintaining and increasing their power relative to other states. The focus here is on the system, not on the individual state or its leaders².

Human Nature Realism (Classical Realism): Human nature realism, on the other hand, asserts that the behavior of states is driven primarily by human nature. Classical realists like Hans Morgenthau argue that it’s the inherent flaws in human nature, such as the lust for power, that lead to conflict and competition among states³. This perspective focuses more on the role of leadership, national character, and moral and ethical considerations in shaping a state’s foreign policy⁴.

In summary, while structural realism emphasizes the anarchic structure of the international system as the determinant of state behavior, human nature realism places more emphasis on the characteristics and behaviors of individuals and groups within the state.

Sources:

Footnotes

1. Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy ↩
2. International Relations.org ↩
3. Britannica ↩
4. International Relations.org ↩

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Offensive and defensive realism are two key sub-theories within the school of structural realism in international relations. Both theories agree on the anarchic nature of the international system, but they differ significantly in their views on state behavior and security.

Offensive Realism: Proposed by John Mearsheimer, offensive realism postulates that states are power-maximizers¹. In an anarchic international system with no overarching authority, states must always be concerned about their security. To ensure survival, they strive to achieve hegemony, as the best guarantee against attack is to be the most powerful state in the system. Offensive realists believe that states should constantly look for opportunities to gain power at the expense of others².

Defensive Realism: Defensive realism, associated with theorists like Kenneth Waltz and Robert Jervis, suggests that states are security-maximizers³. While acknowledging the anarchic nature of the international system, defensive realists argue that an aggressive foreign policy often proves counterproductive, provoking other states to form balancing coalitions. Therefore, states should maintain a moderate level of power and pursue cooperative security arrangements to mitigate potential threats⁴.

In summary, while offensive realists see aggression as a necessity for states to secure their survival, defensive realists advocate for a more moderate and cooperative approach to ensure security in the international system.

Sources:

Footnotes

1. John Mearsheimer’s “The Tragedy of Great Power Politics” ↩
2. Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy ↩
3. Kenneth Waltz’s “Theory of International Politics” ↩
4. Oxford Research Encyclopedias ↩

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Entropy, Anarchy and the Omega Point

Entropy in physics is a fundamental concept that describes the degree of disorder or randomness in a system. In the context of structural realism in international relations, it can be interpreted as the inherent unpredictability and complexity in the international system due to the absence of a central authority¹.

Structural realism asserts that the international system is anarchic, and states are primarily driven by their self-interests for survival and power. This could be seen as a state of high entropy where there’s a high degree of uncertainty and disorder. Structural realists argue that this anarchic structure forces states to act in certain predictable ways, such as balancing against threats, which could be seen as attempts to manage or reduce this entropy².

On the other hand, Teilhard de Chardin’s concept of the Omega Point presents a contrasting view. The Omega Point theory posits that consciousness and evolution are moving towards a maximum point of complexity and consciousness, known as the Omega Point³. This suggests a progression from high entropy (anarchy) to low entropy (hierarchy), driven by the evolution of consciousness.

In contrast to structural realism which views the international system as inherently conflictual and competitive due to its anarchic nature, the Omega Point theory suggests a more optimistic view of the potential for cooperation and integration as consciousness evolves.

In essence, while entropy and structural realism might highlight the disorder and power struggles in the international system, the Omega Point theory offers a perspective on how evolving consciousness could lead to greater order and unity.

Sources:

Footnotes

1. Entropy, technology, and warfare — understanding world politics through physics ↩
2. Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy ↩
3. Teilhard de Chardin’s The Phenomenon of Man ↩

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Liberalism in International Relations

Liberalism is a key theory in international relations that offers an optimistic worldview. It posits that international institutions and interactions can overcome the anarchic nature of the international system, leading to a more cooperative and peaceful world order¹.

1. Democratic Peace Theory: This theory suggests that democracies are less likely to go to war with each other due to shared values, internal constraints, and the transparency of their political systems². Democratic norms require leaders to resolve disputes through negotiation and compromise, reducing the likelihood of conflict.
2. Economic Interdependence: According to liberals, economic interdependence reduces the likelihood of war by increasing the costs of conflict and the benefits of peace³. High levels of trade and investment create mutual benefits and dependencies that both sides would not want to jeopardize through military conflict.
3. Institutionalism: Liberals argue that international institutions, such as the United Nations, play a crucial role in promoting peace and cooperation⁴. Institutions provide forums for dialogue, help enforce international laws, reduce uncertainty about others’ intentions, and make it more difficult for states to renege on their commitments.

While liberalism recognizes that conflicts and power struggles exist among nations, it emphasizes the potential for cooperation, largely driven by democratic governance, economic ties, and institutional mechanisms.

Sources:

Footnotes

1. Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy ↩
2. Oxford Research Encyclopedias ↩
3. Journal of Peace Research ↩
4. International Studies Quarterly ↩

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Natural Organic Hierarchies

Systems theory posits that systems, whether they are biological ecosystems, social structures, or organizations, are made up of interconnected parts that form a complex whole. This holistic approach emphasizes the interdependence of all system components and their interactions¹.

Natural organic hierarchies, as suggested by systems theory, are intrinsic to the organization of many systems in nature. They are characterized by a structure where elements at each level of the hierarchy interact more strongly with each other than with those at different levels². This hierarchical organization is seen as an inherent property of nature².

In ecology, for example, the hierarchical structure can be observed in the organization of ecosystems, from individual organisms (lowest level) to populations, communities, ecosystems, and the biosphere (highest level)³. This hierarchy facilitates understanding and analysis of ecological phenomena.

Similarly, in the context of organizations, there are rational, natural, and open systems. Natural systems focus on the human component in organizations, acknowledging that people and their interactions play a crucial role in shaping an organization’s structure and processes⁴.

The concept of organic hierarchies also extends to areas like organic farming, where systems thinking is reflected in stewardship towards nature, the ethics of animal husbandry, and recycling principles⁵.

In essence, systems theory’s concept of natural organic hierarchies highlights the interconnectedness and interdependence of elements within a system, facilitating our understanding of complex natural and social phenomena.

Sources:

Footnotes

1. Concepts of Systems Thinking ↩
2. Hierarchical structure of biological systems – PMC ↩ ↩²
3. The Hierarchical Structure of Ecosystems: Connections to Evolution ↩
4. Rational, Natural, and Open Systems of Organizations ↩
5. Systems Theory as a Scientific Approach towards Organic Farming ↩

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Symbols

The symbol of anarchy, also known as the Circle-A, is composed of an “A” and an “O”. The “A” stands for “anarchy”, which means “without rulers”. The “O” represents “order”. Together, they convey the phrase “Anarchy is the mother of Order“, which is a part of a quote attributed to Pierre-Joseph Proudhon, a French philosopher and one of the first self-proclaimed anarchists¹².

This symbol is said to represent a French anarchist’s maxim “Anarchy is Order“. It implies that society seeks order, but without the imposition of authority or rulers³.

It’s important to note that anarchism doesn’t signify chaos in all its aspects. Rather, it advocates for a society based on voluntary cooperation of individuals⁴.

While the anarchy symbol has been associated with various movements and ideas over time, it fundamentally remains a representation of a society seeking order through non-hierarchical and voluntary associations⁵.

Sources:

Footnotes

1. Rival LA ↩
2. Quora ↩
3. Public Intelligence ↩
4. Reddit Anarchy 101 ↩
5. Symbols ↩

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There isn’t a universally recognized symbol for hierarchy that contrasts directly with the anarchy symbol. In contrast, hierarchy often manifests in symbols of structures or pyramids, representing rigid levels of authority or power, often imposed.

I propose that Roerich’s Banner of Peace be adopted as a universal symbol of hierarchy. The streams of Light and Love converging into the One (Power) on the Path of Return, restoring the Plan on Earth.

JB

Hierarchy is not coercion, it is the law of the Universe. It is not a threat, but the call of the heart and a fiery admonition directing toward the General Good.

Thus let us cognize the Hierarchy of Light.

https://agniyoga.org/ay_en/Hierarchy.php

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The Three Fundamentals

The First Cause may be construed to comprise three fundamentals: Omnipotent Good, Omniscient Beautiful, and Omnipresent Creative Sound of Light.

These three fundamentals manifest in varying degrees in different philosophies and religions. For example, in Hinduism, the Trimurti consists of three deities: Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, representing creation, preservation, and destruction, respectively. In Christianity, the Holy Trinity comprises the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

Three great energies are focused in Shamballa, the seat of fire:

• The Energy of Purification: This is the power, innate in the manifested universe, which gradually and steadily adapts the substance aspect to the spiritual. It involves the elimination of all that hinders the nature of divinity from full expression.
• The Energy of Destruction: This is a destruction which removes or changes the forms which imprison the inner spiritual life, and hide the inner soul light.
• The Energy of Organization: This is the energy which started the impulse which produced manifestation. The relation of spirit and matter cyclically and under law creates the manifested world as a field for soul development and as an area wherein divine purpose is wrought out through the medium of the Plan.

The Shamballa force therefore focusses the will-to-good, leading to right human relationship, and establishing peace on Earth.

The Shamballa Force • Lucis Trust

Let LIGHT and LOVE and POWER restore the Plan on Earth.

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Why Fear AI When Human Cruelty Knows No Bounds?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been a subject of fear and concern, particularly its potential misuse leading to catastrophic events such as the extinction of humanity. However, when we examine the horrors of the current war in Gaza, we must ask ourselves: should we be more afraid of AI or of the inherent cruelty of twisted human minds?

Israel military says 2 civilians killed for every Hamas militant is a ‘tremendously positive’ ratio given combat challenges.

https://www.cnn.com/2023/12/05/middleeast/israel-hamas-military-civilian-ratio-killed-intl-hnk/index.html

The UNESCO Constitution states, “Since wars begin in the minds of men and women, it is in the minds of men and women that the defenses of peace must be constructed” [1]. This profound statement underscores the fact that the root of conflict lies not in technology, but in human attitudes and behaviors.

The ongoing war in Gaza, marked by shocking atrocities, serves as a grim testament to this reality. The initial terrorist attack on October 7, followed by the subsequent disproportionate response by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), has resulted in a devastating cycle of violence and human suffering [2]. Yet, it is not AI that initiated this conflict, but rather, decisions and actions resulting from the misuse of the human will.

History bears witness to numerous genocidal wars where AI was not involved. The Rwandan Genocide of 1994, the Bosnian War from 1992 to 1995, and more recently, the Rohingya Crisis in Myanmar are stark reminders of the scale of atrocities that can be perpetrated solely by human hands [3][4][5].

In this light, the fear of AI — the simulation of human intelligence in machines that are programmed to reason and act like humans — might be somewhat misplaced. AI is a tool, as beneficial or destructive as the intentions of those who wield it. The true danger lies in AI’s potential to amplify malevolent intentions. Ultimately, it is the misuse of human will that lies at the core of the issue.

This leads us to an important question: how can human will — individual and national — be aligned with the common good without infringing upon free will, and the right for self-defense? This is a critical test for democracy. Democracies thrive on the principle of individual freedom, yet they also necessitate a collective agreement on what constitutes the responsible use of such freedom by promoting right human relations leading to lasting peace.

From the center where the Will of God is known
Let purpose guide the little wills of men –
The purpose which the Masters know and serve.

From the center which we call the race of men
Let the Plan of Love and Light work out
And may it seal the door where evil dwells.

https://www.lucistrust.org/the_great_invocation

Therefore, while it is prudent to be cautious about the potential misuse of AI, it is even more important to recognize that the root of most atrocities lies in human cruelty, not in technology. Instead of fearing AI, perhaps our efforts would be better directed towards fostering empathy, understanding, and peace within the minds of men and women.

[1] “UNESCO Constitution.” UNESCO. https://en.unesco.org/about-us/introducing-unesco [2] “Gaza conflict: What happened in the most recent clash?” BBC News. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-57053074 [3] “Rwanda: How the genocide happened.” BBC News. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-13431486 [4] “Bosnian Genocide.” History. https://www.history.com/topics/1990s/bosnian-genocide [5] “Myanmar Rohingya: What you need to know about the crisis.” BBC News. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-41566561

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On cruelty

Cruelty can be defined as the deliberate infliction of physical or psychological pain, suffering, or harm upon others. It involves acts that are intentionally malicious, inhumane, or lacking compassion. While there may be varying degrees and manifestations of cruelty, it is generally considered a deeply debasing and morally reprehensible act.

More than 18,700 Palestinians have been killed, with 70% of them women and children, according to the territory’s health officials. The vast majority of its 2.2 million people are displaced, and an estimated half face starvation amid an unfolding humanitarian crisis.

https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/live-blog/israel-hamas-war-live-updates-rcna130070

Human cruelty encompasses a wide range of actions, from individual acts of violence to systemic oppression and large-scale atrocities. Examples include physical abuse, torture, discrimination based on race or ethnicity, genocide, war crimes, and other forms of violence or mistreatment inflicted upon fellow human beings.

A supervisor with the Israeli search and recovery team in charge of collecting the bodies showed CBS News some of the injuries he saw and documented, including women whose bodies had lacerations, stabbings and gunshots to their genital area.

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/hamas-israel-witnesses-evidence-show-sexual-violence-oct-7-terror-attack/

The debasing nature of human cruelty stems from its disregard for the inherent dignity and worth of individuals, as well as the violation of fundamental ethical principles such as empathy, compassion, and respect for others. It represents a betrayal of our collective humanity and undermines the potential for harmonious coexistence and progress in society.

While human cruelty is undoubtedly a deeply troubling aspect of our existence, it is important to remember that there are also countless acts of kindness, compassion, and empathy that demonstrate the best of humanity. By striving to cultivate these positive qualities and promoting empathy, understanding, and justice, we can work towards countering the debasing effects of cruelty and fostering a more compassionate world.

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More Americans support Israelis than support Palestinians.
This finding holds across polls. When a Marist poll (conducted for NPR and PBS) asked people which side they sympathized with more, 61 percent chose Israelis and 30 percent chose Palestinians. When YouGov (in a poll for The Economist) asked a similar question with a third option — “about equal” — the results also favored Israelis:

David Leonhardt NYT

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WHY?

The Occupation of the American Mind

Over the past few years, Israel’s ongoing military occupation of Palestinian territory and repeated invasions of the Gaza strip have triggered a fierce backlash against Israeli policies virtually everywhere in the world — except the United States. The Occupation of the American Mind takes an eye-opening look at this critical exception, zeroing in on pro-Israel public relations efforts within the U.S.

Narrated by Roger Waters and featuring leading observers of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and U.S. media culture, the film explores how the Israeli government, the U.S. government, and the pro-Israel lobby have joined forces, often with very different motives, to shape American media coverage of the conflict in Israel’s favor. From the U.S.-based public relations campaigns that emerged in the 1980s to today, the film provides a sweeping analysis of Israel’s decades-long battle for the hearts, minds, and tax dollars of the American people in the face of widening international condemnation of its increasingly right-wing policies.

Narrated by Roger Waters / Featuring Amira Hass, M.J. Rosenberg, Stephen M. Walt, Noam Chomsky, Rula Jebreal, Henry Siegman, Rashid Khalidi, Rami Khouri, Yousef Munayyer, Norman Finkelstein, Max Blumenthal, Phyllis Bennis, Norman Solomon, Mark Crispin Miller, Peter Hart, and Sut Jhally.

The Occupation of the American Mind (original 84-minute version) – YouTube

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It was a test for the United States, for it is the American Jews who have created the situation, with relatively little help or endorsement from the Jews of other nations. The United States, urged by expediency, by the financial weight of the Zionists, and by the strategic position of Palestine, have thrown the weight of their influence into the conflict on the side of aggression and of territorial theft. They could have worked for the Principle of Harmony and permitted time and the non-separativeness of the nations to adjust and solve the Jewish problem.

The Rays and the Initiations by Alice A. Bailey (written circa 1948), p. 636

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Spiritual energies conveying the will-to-synthesis and the will-to-power have been directly impacting post-Atlantean humanity on the first quarter of each century since 1825. Both higher and lower expressions of these impacts are to be expected, as energies are impersonal. It’s up to humanity to choose how to use them.

During the 19th century, several notable initiatives emerged as remarkable demonstrations of the human will-to-synthesis. The Concert of Europe, established after the Napoleonic Wars, aimed to foster stability and cooperation among nations. The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement emerged as a humanitarian force, providing aid and support to those in need. In 1889, the Inter-Parliamentary Union was founded, promoting dialogue and collaboration among parliamentarians worldwide. Additionally, the World Trade Organization facilitated international trade through its efforts.

However, not all expressions of these spiritual energies were positive. The widespread colonial expansion by European powers, fueled by the desire for power and resources, resulted in numerous negative consequences. This included conflicts in the Middle East and other regions, illustrating the complex interplay between higher expressions of will-to-synthesis and the will-to-power, and the potential for negative outcomes when driven by self-interest and domination.

In the 20th century, specifically in 1925, the impact of these energies had far-reaching consequences. It not only marked the rise of Fascism, a political ideology that emphasized authoritarianism and nationalism, but also witnessed the establishment of the United Nations, a global organization aimed at promoting international cooperation and preventing future conflicts. These events exemplified both the lower and higher expressions of the same energies, albeit with a heightened intensity that shaped the course of history.

As we approach the year 2025, there is a growing recognition of the higher expressions of the will-to-good, rooted in the concept of world goodwill among individuals who genuinely seek positive change globally. However, it is disconcerting to observe that fascist ideologies are gaining momentum across the world. From the alarming resurgence of far-right parties in Europe to the troubling spread of white nationalism in the United States, these trends pose significant threats to our collective well-being. This post aims to shed light on the risk identified by The Economist as “the biggest danger to the world in 2024,” urging us to critically evaluate and address these concerning developments.

In the 38 years since the predictive guide was first published, “no single person has ever eclipsed our analysis as much as Donald Trump eclipses 2024,” the article begins. It goes on to ponder what a Trump victory would mean for the world and claims that parliaments and boardrooms the world over are filled with “despair” at what may come:

A second Trump term would be a watershed in a way the first was not. Victory would confirm his most destructive instincts about power. His plans would encounter less resistance. And because America will have voted him in while knowing the worst, its moral authority would decline. The election will be decided by tens of thousands of voters in just a handful of states. In 2024 the fate of the world will depend on their ballots.

Trump would move his MAGA Republican allies into “the most important positions” in government, the article predicts, and Trump would be “unbound in his pursuit of retribution, economic protectionism and theatrically extravagant deals.”

https://www.redlakenationnews.com/story/2023/11/20/politics/the-economists-world-ahead-guide-declares-donald-trump-the-biggest-global-threat-in-2024/118378.html

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Fascism

1. Definition and Classification

Fascism is a form of far-right, authoritarian political ideology that centralizes power, suppresses opposition, and strives for a dictatorial government led by a single leader. It often utilizes a powerful nationalism narrative, advocating for ethnic purity and the suppression of political dissent¹.

There are different types of fascism that have been identified over the years. The two primary forms are Italian Fascism, led by Benito Mussolini, and German National Socialism (Nazism), led by Adolf Hitler. Other variations include Spanish Falangism, Brazilian Integralism, and Japanese Statism². Each of these types shares common elements but also has unique characteristics defined by their cultural and historical contexts.

2. History and Cycles

Fascism first emerged in Italy following World War I, amidst social unrest and fears of communist revolution. Mussolini capitalized on this turmoil, establishing the first fascist regime in 1922³. Similarly, in Germany, Hitler rose to power in the wake of economic instability and national humiliation after the Treaty of Versailles.

Fascism tends to emerge in cycles, typically during periods of intense social, economic, or political upheaval. It often exploits societal fears and uses propaganda to gain support, promising stability and order while blaming societal ills on marginalized groups⁴.

3. Social Determinants and Predictors

Several social factors can predict the rise of fascism. These include economic instability, political polarization, societal unrest, and perceived threats to national identity⁵. Additionally, the presence of charismatic leaders who can manipulate public sentiment and exploit societal fears greatly contributes to the rise of fascist movements.

4. Current Trends

Currently, there’s a growing concern about the resurgence of neo-fascist ideologies around the world. From the rise of far-right parties in Europe to the spread of white nationalism in the United States, there’s evidence that fascist ideologies are gaining traction⁶. However, it’s important to distinguish between far-right populism and fascism, as the latter involves a total rejection of democratic principles and institutions.

5. Contrast with Authoritarianism, Monarchical Rule, and Populism

While all these ideologies share a centralization of power, they differ significantly. Authoritarianism is a broad term for any political system where power is concentrated in the hands of a leader or a small elite, but it doesn’t necessarily involve the nationalist and racial elements of fascism⁷.

Monarchical rule, on the other hand, derives authority from a hereditary line and may or may not be authoritarian. It often lacks the mass mobilization component and the dictatorial aspirations inherent in fascism⁸.

Populism, meanwhile, is a political approach that seeks to disrupt the existing social order by rallying the common people against elites. While fascism can employ populist rhetoric, it differs in its violent suppression of dissent, its dictatorial aspirations, and its emphasis on ethnic or racial purity⁹.

In conclusion, understanding fascism is crucial to safeguarding democratic institutions and values. By recognizing its characteristics and societal predictors, society can better guard against its resurgence.

Footnotes

1. Stanley, J. (2018). How Fascism Works: The Politics of Us and Them. Random House. ↩
   
2. Paxton, R. O. (2004). The Anatomy of Fascism. Alfred A. Knopf. ↩
   
3. Ebner, M. (2011). Ordinary Violence in Mussolini’s Italy. Cambridge University Press. ↩
   
4. Mann, M. (2004). Fascists. Cambridge University Press. ↩
   
5. Finchelstein, F. (2017). From Fascism to Populism in History. University of California Press. ↩
   
6. Mudde, C., & Kaltwasser, C. R. (2017). Populism: A Very Short Introduction. Oxford University Press. ↩
   
7. Linz, J. J. (2000). Totalitarian and Authoritarian Regimes. Lynne Rienner Publishers. ↩
   
8. Skocpol, T. (1979). States and Social Revolutions: A Comparative Analysis of France, Russia, and China. Cambridge University Press. ↩
   
9. Müller, J.-W. (2016). What Is Populism?. University of Pennsylvania Press. ↩
   

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Project 2025

Project 2025 is an initiative by The Heritage Foundation aimed at preparing for a conservative victory through policy, personnel, and training. The project’s goal is to rescue the country from the grip of the radical Left by establishing both a governing agenda and the right people to carry it out on Day One of the next conservative administration¹.

The project builds on four pillars:

1. Policy Agenda: This comprehensive guide will offer specific proposals for every major issue facing the country, drawing from the expertise of the entire conservative movement.
   
2. Personnel Database: The project aims to identify conservatives from all walks of life across the country to serve in the next conservative administration.
   
3. Training: To transform this talent pool into effective conservative administrators, the project will offer workshops, seminars, online videos, and mentorship, led by experts who have served in prior administrations.
   
4. 180-Day Playbook: This playbook will outline actions to be taken in the first 180 days of the new administration to bring quick relief to Americans suffering from the Left’s policies¹.
   

The Presidential Transition Project, under the umbrella of Project 2025, has been making significant strides, with recent announcements of additions to the Presidential Administration Academy, reaching 75 coalition partners, and continuing development in preparation for the next Conservative President¹.

Footnotes

1. Project 2025 ↩ ↩² ↩³
   

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Project 2025 Key Objectives

Project 2025, an initiative by The Heritage Foundation, aims to prepare for a conservative victory through policy, personnel, and training. It has several key objectives that include restoring integrity, uprooting bureaucracy, and prioritizing the fossil fuel industry¹².

1. Restoring Integrity: Project 2025 aims to restore integrity by ensuring that taxpayer money is used efficiently and effectively. For instance, one of its plans includes ceasing public funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), which they argue will lead to conservative taxpayers not subsidizing what they perceive as a left-leaning organization³.
   
2. Uprooting Bureaucracy: To counter bureaucratic inefficiencies, Project 2025 is working on a plan to recruit tens of thousands of conservatives to replace existing federal civil service workers². It believes that such a move will streamline operations and reduce unnecessary bureaucratic procedures⁴.
   
3. Prioritizing the Fossil Fuel Industry: The project seeks to prioritize the fossil fuel industry over clean energy alternatives. This includes proposals to bar funding for the UN’s Green Climate Fund and radically boost fossil fuel consumption⁵⁶. However, this aspect of the agenda has faced criticism, with opponents arguing that it neglects environmental concerns and the need for sustainable, clean energy solutions⁷⁸.
   

It’s important to note that these plans have faced opposition, particularly in relation to prioritizing the fossil fuel industry over clean energy. Some polls indicate that voters reject this aspect of the Project 2025 plan in favor of President Biden’s clean energy plan⁷.

Footnotes

1. Project 2025 ↩
   
2. Wikipedia ↩ ↩²
   
3. Heritage ↩
   
4. Project 2025 Mandate For Leadership ↩
   
5. The Guardian ↩
   
6. People’s World ↩
   
7. Climate Power ↩ ↩²
   
8. Data for Progress ↩
   

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The “Restoring Integrity” aspect of the Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025 aims to ensure accountability and justice within the U.S. government, including within the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)¹².

1. Department of Justice: The project proposes to restore the integrity of the DOJ by ensuring consistent litigation¹. This could involve implementing more rigorous checks and balances and increasing transparency in the department’s operations. However, the specifics of how these changes would be implemented are not detailed in the available sources.
   
2. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI): The Heritage Foundation suggests giving the FBI a “hard reset”¹. This could potentially involve restructuring the organization, reducing administrative offices³, and decreasing headquarters staff to improve efficiency and effectiveness. They argue that such changes would help fix perceived issues within the bureau and restore public faith in the institution⁴³.
   

The project also advocates for the dismantling of what it refers to as “weaponized intelligence agencies”⁵. It argues that there has been an erosion of constitutional safeguards by U.S. intelligence agencies and seeks to correct this.

However, it’s important to note that these proposals have been met with criticism. Opponents argue that the project could potentially undermine established institutions and policies⁶. These perspectives represent the views of the Heritage Foundation and its Project 2025, and there are differing viewpoints on these issues.

Footnotes

1. Heritage.org ↩ ↩² ↩³
   
2. Heritage.org ↩
   
3. Heritage.org ↩ ↩²
   
4. Heritage.org ↩
   
5. Heritage.org ↩
   
6. Mother Jones ↩
   

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The “Restoring Integrity” part of the Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025 aims to restore faith in the executive branch of the U.S. government by ensuring that it functions based on conservative principles and values¹². The project argues that this can be achieved by putting the right people in the right roles³⁴.

However, some critics have raised concerns that this could potentially lead to an overpowering Executive branch, thereby upsetting the balance of power among the three constitutional branches of government – Executive, Legislative, and Judicial⁵. This concern stems from the belief that if one political ideology dominates the executive branch, it could potentially dictate policy and exert undue influence over the other branches⁶.

In a worst-case scenario, critics worry that if the checks and balances system were to fail, there could potentially be a shift towards an authoritarian regime, where power is concentrated in the executive branch⁷. This would be a significant departure from the democratic principles upon which the U.S. government is founded, including the separation of powers and checks and balances.

It’s important to note that these are potential concerns raised by critics and not stated intentions of the Heritage Foundation or its Project 2025. The foundation asserts its commitment to constitutional principles and the preservation of American liberties¹².

Footnotes

1. Heritage.org ↩ ↩²
   
2. Heritage.org ↩ ↩²
   
3. Heritage.org ↩
   
4. Heritage.org ↩
   
5. The Atlantic ↩
   
6. The Washington Post ↩
   
7. The New York Times ↩
   

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However, history has numerous examples of charismatic leaders who have used the guise of “restoring integrity” to centralize power and establish authoritarian regimes.

1. Benito Mussolini – Italy: Mussolini, a charismatic leader, came to power in Italy in 1922 with the promise of restoring the country’s political and economic stability¹. He gradually dismantled democratic institutions, consolidated power within the executive branch, and established a totalitarian regime¹².
   
2. Adolf Hitler – Germany: Hitler was appointed Chancellor of Germany in 1933. He leveraged his charisma and promises of restoring Germany’s integrity after the hardships of World War I and the Treaty of Versailles³. Hitler gradually centralized political and military power, ultimately establishing a totalitarian regime⁴.
   
3. Hugo Chávez – Venezuela: Chávez won the presidential elections in 1998 on the promise of combating corruption and poverty⁵. His charismatic leadership and popular support allowed him to consolidate power, rewrite the constitution, and reduce the influence of opposition forces⁶. His government is considered a model of modern authoritarianism⁷.
   

These examples illustrate how charismatic leaders can use the idea of “restoring integrity” to win public support, consolidate power, and establish authoritarian regimes. Although these historical examples do not necessarily predict future events, they should serve as warning signals of potential danger. Not all tropical depressions become category 5 hurricanes, but they should be closely monitored.

Footnotes

1. Britannica ↩ ↩²
   
2. History.com ↩
   
3. Britannica ↩
   
4. History.com ↩
   
5. Britannica ↩
   
6. BBC ↩
   
7. Freedom House ↩
   

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There is only one way in which this focused evil will which is responsive to the Shamballa force can be overcome, and that is by the opposition of an equally focused spiritual Will, displayed by responsive men and women of goodwill who can train themselves to be sensitive to this type of new incoming energy and can learn how to invoke and evoke it.

You can consequently see why there was more than the casual use of a current word in my mind when I talked to all of you in terms of goodwill and of the will-to-good. All the time I had in my thoughts not just kindness and good intention, but the focused will-to-good which can and must evoke the Shamballa energy, and use it for the arresting of the forces of evil. -Source: The Externalisation of the Hierarchy (quoted text written in April, 1942)

cited in https://hierarchicaldemocracy.wordpress.com/2023/11/17/goodwill-in-times-of-war/

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Rachel Maddow’s Prequel traces the rise of a radical strain of authoritarianism that has been alive and well in America for the better part of a century. Taking readers back to the early days of World War II, Maddow, with her inimitable wit and humor, introduces us to a clandestine network of far-far-right American radicals, united by one goal: to overthrow the U.S. government and install authoritarian rule. Through a series of sophisticated and shockingly well-funded efforts—including an astonishing amount of support among serving members of Congress—these extremists would bring America into a much closer flirtation with fascism than we want to remember. Through the heroic resistance of journalists, activists, and ordinary citizens, their goal was never achieved…but the seeds of extremism were planted and have reached forward through history into our present. As we navigate through our own disquieting times, Prequel offers a roadmap from U.S. history, marked both with heroics to emulate and traps and pitfalls to avoid.

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