The UK does not have a history of democratic values.
This only happens because the citizenry doesn't care, if they opposed this they should replace the government or "encourage" them to change tack. The question should be less why the government implements these rules, and more why your fellow citizens support these stupid rules. Or alternatively, look on the bright side, it is not yet a crime in your country to lend someone your phone.
I'm sorry but did you just compare the deaths of hundreds of people with an argument about software licenses ? Cause it seems like you did ? You really think that "freedom" of information is more important than democracy and the right to self determination, cause the former is entirely dependent on the latter to exist. And if you don't care about people fighting and dying for their right to self determination, maybe you should refrain from lecturing others.
Most, if not all, countries have laws that restrict what can be said or in this particular instance what images can possessed or propagated. In many cases these laws are appear to be silly to others, but countries are actually allowed to make their own laws. Just because you may not be religious should not encourage you to take shots at those who are.
The internet allows for persons to voice there opinions without the moderating influence of society. I would suggest visiting a few of the larger sites on the internet, I am not sure the lack of moderation is positive. I also think the ability to disagree without being disagreeable, and to recognize the futility of an argument, are two skills that most people should learn, the scenario that you describe would not allow for this.
Most "computer geeks" attend schools with homogeneous demographics, they then proceed to universities and jobs with the similar problem. They are rarely in situations where they interact with the "other", and (sometimes) when offered the chance, e.g. Slashdot postings, their comments would indicate that they are bigoted. If your assumptions were correct, the Internet would have fewer of these "extreme" opinions.
The mere fact that you refer to Irish, Russian and Italian immigrants rather than European, highlights the difference in how the two groups have been treated, the ease with which they can be identified, and the extent to which they are separated. While there was prejudice, it decreased with subsequent generations and it rarely reached the points where the Blacks, or even the Amerindians, were better off.
So your solution to under-representation which was due preferences being awarded to one group, is to wait and see if it settles out ? This seems like a solution that requires the aggrieved group to continue suffer disproportionately, fairness would dictate the group that benefited in the past pay more of the cost.
I assume you are not aware of your condescending tone, and I suggest you restrict your comments until you find yourself in the position where you are in the absolute and visible minority. Reaching out to the only other Hispanic/Black/etc, in a group of 100s it is base human nature to not wish to be alone.
I am going to guess African, they would call him/her African. What is it ?
Most multi ethnic societies are obsessed with ethnic groups, either to conduct, redress or prevent discrimination. Some current examples would be Guyana, Malaysia, China, Germany, France, Rwanda, South Africa, Zimbabwe and India. These countries all currently have problems related to ethnic tensions, or are resolving past ethnic problems. Governments that ignore the problem on a official level, rarely observe that the problem goes away or gets better.
Why do you think a lot of "computer geeks" are not racist ?
I have found that they generally have a high opinion of self, that is not based in reality. I don't see any evidence that would suggest, "computer geeks" are less bigoted than the general population. And given that slashdot, one of the more popular website with "computer geeks" is full of bigoted opinions, I think that you are wrong. But I would love to hear your contradictory evidence.
"and refuses to sugarcoat the truth for the sake of feelings, doesn't mean they don't deserve respect." I think this is a contradiction, you are indicating that people who are inconsiderate of others deserve respect. I am confused, as this implies we should sugarcoat the truth to salve their feelings. Do you agree ?
If African American is the term used to identify Americans of African descent, then it is correct to use the label for Americans who are "people of Caribbean descent". As they would be Americans and they are of African descent also, likewise the term is appropriate for Americans who are from Africa. If you were to classify someone as Asian American, you don't indicate when the person migrated, so why is it applicable for blacks ?
>Interestingly enough, new immigrants from African countries get to essentially piggyback onto the same story even when they are not descendants of the slaves and were never subject to discrimination in US. Oh well, every groups of people looks for competitive advantage.
On the flip side, immigrants of European descent are able to benefit from the system of prejudice that benefited the majority white population. Right ?
I agree with your point, but I think this level of hysteria is usually associated with crimes against children. I doubt a person under suspicion of drug use or even murder would be disowned by the parents. And in the case of possession of child porn, it appears that a patient and thorough approach would be beneficial. I would also think the focus would be on preventing future abuse, by catching the creators of the material.
"Speaking as one of the purported knuckledragging retards, I would like to point out just how many people in the US are fanatically against what is happening here. Even with speaking out and performing civil disobediance, we don't seem to be able to gain any traction, let alone actual forward motion against our government."
I don't believe this is true, can you think of a recent policy decision that was not supported by the majority of the populace. I think the failure of the recent immigration bill is proof that few policies are implemented without the support of the citizens. I feels the entrenched special interests complaint, usually implies a lack of widespread support and an unwillingness to solicit more support.
That is my point, any constitution written in the last hundred years is likely to include universal suffrage and prohibition of slavery. These are rights that most sane people consider more important than the respect for private property or the nebulous concept of limited government... which in reality is a limited federal government. In short a constitution that does not prohibit slavery is flawed, we have learned from our experiences.
Variegated citizenship... I refer to the decision to limit or restrict the votes of certain citizens based on location etc.
The ability to own other people. The lack of universal suffrage. The electoral college and variegated citizenship. The concept of equality and fairness.
It is folly to assume a document written in the 1700's would be a very good fit for the 2000's.
The only reasonable purpose for the root password would be to search the machine without the child's permission and/or cooperation. And if this the case, it is hard to say there is a trust relationship. 'Monitoring' a child's usage of a computer does not require spying, if you are willing to make an effort and engage.
I own a Dell, I complained about a loud fan noise via email. Got a response about arranging a service visit. Tech came and removed the fan. With other issues I have gotten replacement parts or service visits with minimal fuss. I also do not have any issues understanding the service staff, while some have Indian accents all speak English quite well.
I think the company has already hit the ground. They only retain the executives to ensure the corporate assets are sold and the company has been 'wrapped up'. After which the executives will be laid off. So the money is to have these people stick around through the end, rather than quit now.
I think you might find that Nigeria does have a problem with illegal immigrants. While most people don't have billions to donate like Mr. Gates, the majority of VISITORS to the US do not want to stay and while visiting do contribute to your economy. And they are required to prove they will not be a burden, so I am not sure why he shouldn't be required to do the same.
I don't know of any school that allows students to drop Maths, or English etc. The school generally has required subjects, and a minimum course load. The tracks also have required subjects, and thus minimum course loads. Forcing students to choose a track requires them to think of their future goals in a realistic manner.
We will agree to disagree on the Chinese students, and their ability to solve problems.
But on tracked education you are mistaken, the purpose is for students to take subjects that they like, but the school still sets standards and minimum requirements. So a student does not have the option to drop Maths, English or Science but they do have the option to drop Music for Metalwork, or replace Technical Drawing with Biology. This allows children to take subjects that they are actually interested, and as a result most people do better. The skills required for success (reasoning, communication etc.) can be derived from many subjects, thus not taking Chemistry is unlikely to impact the prospects of most students. And finally, your high school track is not the final determinant or even a good indicator of your eventual career.
Slashdot Mirror
Real classy.
The UK does not have a history of democratic values.
This only happens because the citizenry doesn't care, if they opposed this they should replace the government or "encourage" them to change tack. The question should be less why the government implements these rules, and more why your fellow citizens support these stupid rules. Or alternatively, look on the bright side, it is not yet a crime in your country to lend someone your phone.
I'm sorry but did you just compare the deaths of hundreds of people with an argument about software licenses ? Cause it seems like you did ? You really think that "freedom" of information is more important than democracy and the right to self determination, cause the former is entirely dependent on the latter to exist. And if you don't care about people fighting and dying for their right to self determination, maybe you should refrain from lecturing others.
Most, if not all, countries have laws that restrict what can be said or in this particular instance what images can possessed or propagated. In many cases these laws are appear to be silly to others, but countries are actually allowed to make their own laws. Just because you may not be religious should not encourage you to take shots at those who are.
http://www.hindujagruti.org/denigrations/index.php?id=3
You may wish to include Lasik eye surgery as another medical operation that athletes use to give them an unfair advantage.
The internet allows for persons to voice there opinions without the moderating influence of society. I would suggest visiting a few of the larger sites on the internet, I am not sure the lack of moderation is positive. I also think the ability to disagree without being disagreeable, and to recognize the futility of an argument, are two skills that most people should learn, the scenario that you describe would not allow for this.
Most "computer geeks" attend schools with homogeneous demographics, they then proceed to universities and jobs with the similar problem. They are rarely in situations where they interact with the "other", and (sometimes) when offered the chance, e.g. Slashdot postings, their comments would indicate that they are bigoted. If your assumptions were correct, the Internet would have fewer of these "extreme" opinions.
Not caring about the feelings of others, makes you inconsiderate.
The mere fact that you refer to Irish, Russian and Italian immigrants rather than European, highlights the difference in how the two groups have been treated, the ease with which they can be identified, and the extent to which they are separated. While there was prejudice, it decreased with subsequent generations and it rarely reached the points where the Blacks, or even the Amerindians, were better off.
So your solution to under-representation which was due preferences being awarded to one group, is to wait and see if it settles out ? This seems like a solution that requires the aggrieved group to continue suffer disproportionately, fairness would dictate the group that benefited in the past pay more of the cost.
I assume you are not aware of your condescending tone, and I suggest you restrict your comments until you find yourself in the position where you are in the absolute and visible minority. Reaching out to the only other Hispanic/Black/etc, in a group of 100s it is base human nature to not wish to be alone.
I am going to guess African, they would call him/her African. What is it ?
Most multi ethnic societies are obsessed with ethnic groups, either to conduct, redress or prevent discrimination. Some current examples would be Guyana, Malaysia, China, Germany, France, Rwanda, South Africa, Zimbabwe and India. These countries all currently have problems related to ethnic tensions, or are resolving past ethnic problems. Governments that ignore the problem on a official level, rarely observe that the problem goes away or gets better.
Why do you think a lot of "computer geeks" are not racist ?
I have found that they generally have a high opinion of self, that is not based in reality. I don't see any evidence that would suggest, "computer geeks" are less bigoted than the general population. And given that slashdot, one of the more popular website with "computer geeks" is full of bigoted opinions, I think that you are wrong. But I would love to hear your contradictory evidence.
"and refuses to sugarcoat the truth for the sake of feelings, doesn't mean they don't deserve respect."
I think this is a contradiction, you are indicating that people who are inconsiderate of others deserve respect. I am confused, as this implies we should sugarcoat the truth to salve their feelings. Do you agree ?
If African American is the term used to identify Americans of African descent, then it is correct to use the label for Americans who are "people of Caribbean descent". As they would be Americans and they are of African descent also, likewise the term is appropriate for Americans who are from Africa. If you were to classify someone as Asian American, you don't indicate when the person migrated, so why is it applicable for blacks ?
>Interestingly enough, new immigrants from African countries get to essentially piggyback onto the same story even when they are not descendants of the slaves and were never subject to discrimination in US. Oh well, every groups of people looks for competitive advantage.
On the flip side, immigrants of European descent are able to benefit from the system of prejudice that benefited the majority white population. Right ?
I agree with your point, but I think this level of hysteria is usually associated with crimes against children. I doubt a person under suspicion of drug use or even murder would be disowned by the parents. And in the case of possession of child porn, it appears that a patient and thorough approach would be beneficial. I would also think the focus would be on preventing future abuse, by catching the creators of the material.
"Speaking as one of the purported knuckledragging retards, I would like to point out just how many people in the US are fanatically against what is happening here. Even with speaking out and performing civil disobediance, we don't seem to be able to gain any traction, let alone actual forward motion against our government."
I don't believe this is true, can you think of a recent policy decision that was not supported by the majority of the populace. I think the failure of the recent immigration bill is proof that few policies are implemented without the support of the citizens. I feels the entrenched special interests complaint, usually implies a lack of widespread support and an unwillingness to solicit more support.
That is my point, any constitution written in the last hundred years is likely to include universal suffrage and prohibition of slavery. These are rights that most sane people consider more important than the respect for private property or the nebulous concept of limited government ... which in reality is a limited federal government. In short a constitution that does not prohibit slavery is flawed, we have learned from our experiences.
... I refer to the decision to limit or restrict the votes of certain citizens based on location etc.
Variegated citizenship
The ability to own other people.
The lack of universal suffrage.
The electoral college and variegated citizenship.
The concept of equality and fairness.
It is folly to assume a document written in the 1700's would be a very good fit for the 2000's.
The only reasonable purpose for the root password would be to search the machine without the child's permission and/or cooperation. And if this the case, it is hard to say there is a trust relationship. 'Monitoring' a child's usage of a computer does not require spying, if you are willing to make an effort and engage.
I own a Dell, I complained about a loud fan noise via email. Got a response about arranging a service visit. Tech came and removed the fan. With other issues I have gotten replacement parts or service visits with minimal fuss. I also do not have any issues understanding the service staff, while some have Indian accents all speak English quite well.
I think the company has already hit the ground. They only retain the executives to ensure the corporate assets are sold and the company has been 'wrapped up'. After which the executives will be laid off. So the money is to have these people stick around through the end, rather than quit now.
Or maybe he did not submit the required paperwork, as alluded to in the article ?
I think you might find that Nigeria does have a problem with illegal immigrants. While most people don't have billions to donate like Mr. Gates, the majority of VISITORS to the US do not want to stay and while visiting do contribute to your economy. And they are required to prove they will not be a burden, so I am not sure why he shouldn't be required to do the same.
I don't know of any school that allows students to drop Maths, or English etc. The school generally has required subjects, and a minimum course load. The tracks also have required subjects, and thus minimum course loads. Forcing students to choose a track requires them to think of their future goals in a realistic manner.
We will agree to disagree on the Chinese students, and their ability to solve problems.
But on tracked education you are mistaken, the purpose is for students to take subjects that they like, but the school still sets standards and minimum requirements. So a student does not have the option to drop Maths, English or Science but they do have the option to drop Music for Metalwork, or replace Technical Drawing with Biology. This allows children to take subjects that they are actually interested, and as a result most people do better. The skills required for success (reasoning, communication etc.) can be derived from many subjects, thus not taking Chemistry is unlikely to impact the prospects of most students. And finally, your high school track is not the final determinant or even a good indicator of your eventual career.