LA Times editorial nails it on right wing extremism

[napoleon_in_rags]

26. A lot of data there...

...for those with an eye for it.

These are the people who see the wealth inequality information and come to the conclusion that we need to get rid of minimum wage. That behaviour right there has just about all the relevant scientific information you need to know about what motivates them.

I was going to respond to the OP with a yawn, and pointing out the fundamental fact, so important, that the scientists are NOT on their side, and that's what really matters in a 21st century landscape. Those who embrace nature as it is have the power to shape the future. But your post spoke to it well enough.

And BTW, the "armed tough guy" conservative scene is the weakest part of that base. Peaceful conservative Christians are way stronger, and their captains of industry are stronger still.

I agree with you on the idea that we should speak our minds, not smile smugly. We are democrats, invested in the democraticization of information, we are invested in the idea that all should know the truth, from the most simple guy to the smartest professor. We betray that when we fail to speak our minds. Even as the most cartoonish character conservatives might laugh at, we have to do it still. That's what moves the whole thing forward.

But yes, we can fight this. Wise analysis reveals how much is on our side: We stare power in the face every day unflinchingly, we are used to being underdogs, that's how we roll. The other side attempts to position itself with whatever billionaire has power. In any conflict, they will roll over if they other side appears to have the advantage, the power, but we never will. That's a fundamental advantage that remains with the party of the stubborn donkey.

PEace!
Nir.