torchbearer
03-11-2008, 02:00 PM
This was written in our local lafayette paper.
http://www.theadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080311/OPINION/803110302/1014
Commentary: The philosophy of Ron Paul takes from left, right
Ken LaRive
news@theadvertiser.com
Have you noticed the small signs around Lafayette that say: "Who is Ron Paul?" It was a curious reminder of the famous book Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand and her Libertarian character's similar sign that read: "Who is John Galt?"
When I Googled Ron Paul, I saw why, as there is a definite and very relevant correlation.
The political determination tests that are becoming popular on the Internet this year showed that most Americans found themselves in the middle ground of good sense, not in the "ultra." Also, they saw that the root cause of world terror, the consequences of socialism and the securing of our borders seem mute points to the candidates, and not reflecting the will of America proper.
As I studied Ron Paul, I was amazed about what he proposed, and though he won't stand a chance this election, it seems he is causing something of a revolution in thought. His Libertarian points of view go back to our Founding Father Thomas Jefferson and the philosopher John Loche, who inspired him.
Interviewed by NEWSMAX Magazine, he was asked "What should government do?" Paul gave a very Libertarian answer: "Protect our freedoms. Have a strong national defense. Look at and take care of our borders. Have a sound currency. That's the responsibility of the federal government - not to run our lives and run everything in the economy."
Ron Paul takes from the left - anti-NAFTA, anti-war, anti-Patriot Act. From the Libertarian and conservative right, he espouses anti-big-government and intervention, anti-tax and pro-privatization.
Some contemporaries who have somewhat of an affinity with Paul are notables like Milton Friedman, Roy Innus, Charles and David Koch and Bob Barr. There are star proponents too, including Dave Barry, Drew Carey, Penn Jillette, Ted Nugent, Clint Eastwood and Kurt Russell.
The Libertarian Movement, though now considered grassroots, is a growing phenomenon popular with both young Republicans and Democrats alike, as it promises to finally bridge the gap between the two. Those who see the dangers of constitutional dismantlement, basic human rights, ultra-government intervention-control and sound international policies, may create a new face for America, where again "We, the people of the United States of America" might take back liberty and justice for all. In effect, it may finally bridge the ultra-idealistic gaps that so weaken us.
A bit late for '08. Or is it?
Ken LaRive is a writer and photographer who now lives in Lafayette and is engaged in the import/export business.
http://www.theadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080311/OPINION/803110302/1014
Commentary: The philosophy of Ron Paul takes from left, right
Ken LaRive
news@theadvertiser.com
Have you noticed the small signs around Lafayette that say: "Who is Ron Paul?" It was a curious reminder of the famous book Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand and her Libertarian character's similar sign that read: "Who is John Galt?"
When I Googled Ron Paul, I saw why, as there is a definite and very relevant correlation.
The political determination tests that are becoming popular on the Internet this year showed that most Americans found themselves in the middle ground of good sense, not in the "ultra." Also, they saw that the root cause of world terror, the consequences of socialism and the securing of our borders seem mute points to the candidates, and not reflecting the will of America proper.
As I studied Ron Paul, I was amazed about what he proposed, and though he won't stand a chance this election, it seems he is causing something of a revolution in thought. His Libertarian points of view go back to our Founding Father Thomas Jefferson and the philosopher John Loche, who inspired him.
Interviewed by NEWSMAX Magazine, he was asked "What should government do?" Paul gave a very Libertarian answer: "Protect our freedoms. Have a strong national defense. Look at and take care of our borders. Have a sound currency. That's the responsibility of the federal government - not to run our lives and run everything in the economy."
Ron Paul takes from the left - anti-NAFTA, anti-war, anti-Patriot Act. From the Libertarian and conservative right, he espouses anti-big-government and intervention, anti-tax and pro-privatization.
Some contemporaries who have somewhat of an affinity with Paul are notables like Milton Friedman, Roy Innus, Charles and David Koch and Bob Barr. There are star proponents too, including Dave Barry, Drew Carey, Penn Jillette, Ted Nugent, Clint Eastwood and Kurt Russell.
The Libertarian Movement, though now considered grassroots, is a growing phenomenon popular with both young Republicans and Democrats alike, as it promises to finally bridge the gap between the two. Those who see the dangers of constitutional dismantlement, basic human rights, ultra-government intervention-control and sound international policies, may create a new face for America, where again "We, the people of the United States of America" might take back liberty and justice for all. In effect, it may finally bridge the ultra-idealistic gaps that so weaken us.
A bit late for '08. Or is it?
Ken LaRive is a writer and photographer who now lives in Lafayette and is engaged in the import/export business.