Third parties in the United States

 Donnie Harold Harris, born on August 1, 1953, has a diverse educational background. Here are some details about his schooling and other experiences:

1. Grade Schools: Donnie attended 21 different grade schools in Indianapolis during his early years.
2. High School: He graduated from Emmerich Manual High School.
3. Military Service: Donnie served in the U.S. Army as an infantryman.
4. Further Education: Throughout his life, he attended several other universities and schools, studying various subjects, including law, philosophy, communications, and scientology.
5. Professional Life: Donnie runs a 45-year-old remodeling company.

In addition to his educational journey, Donnie was politically active:

• In 2011, he was a Public Party candidate for Mayor of Indianapolis.
• In 2010, he ran as a Public Party candidate for the U.S. Senate.
• In the 2012 Indiana gubernatorial election, he was a write-in candidate for Governor of Indiana, running alongside George Fish1.

Donnie's political philosophy emphasizes fairness, education, and believing in every citizen's potential. He envisions a world without pain, crime, insanity, or war, where individuals can thrive and progress.

Additionally, Donnie's high school, Emmerich Manual High School, holds memories for many alumni, including him2. His diverse experiences and commitment to public service have shaped his journey.

!Donnie Harold Harris 1: Ballotpedia - Donnie Harold Harris Certainly! Third parties in the United States face several significant challenges, contributing to their limited success within the existing political landscape. Let's explore these obstacles:

1. Historical Persistence of the Two-Party System:

   • The U.S. has long operated under a two-party system, with the Democratic Party and the Republican Party dominating electoral politics. These parties have deep historical roots and well-established structures.
   • Despite occasional shifts and realignments, the modern Republicans and Democrats have endured despite significant political upheavals. This persistence makes it difficult for upstart third parties to dislodge the status quo1.

2. Electoral System Design:

   • The American electoral system plays a crucial role in limiting third-party success. In most U.S. elections, votes are counted using plurality rules ("winner take all"). Whoever gets the most votes wins the single seat up for election.
   • In contrast, many other democracies use different systems that allow for proportional representation. In those systems, multiple political parties can thrive because seats are awarded based on the percentage of votes each party receives.
   • Unfortunately, the winner-takes-all approach in the U.S. tends to favor the major parties, making it challenging for third parties to gain a foothold1.

3. Perceptions of Wasted Votes:

   • Many voters feel that voting for a third-party candidate is a waste, especially if that candidate is unlikely to win. They fear that their vote won't contribute to a viable outcome.
   • The pressure to vote strategically—choosing between the lesser of two evils—often discourages voters from supporting third-party candidates. As a result, these candidates struggle to gain traction despite their unique platforms and ideas2.

4. Focus on Single Personalities or Issues:

   • Third parties sometimes face challenges related to their narrow focus. They may center their campaigns around a single personality (such as a charismatic candidate) or an issue (such as environmental conservation or civil liberties).
   • While this approach can attract passionate supporters, it can also lead to less popularity among a broader range of voters. Major parties, on the other hand, tend to have more comprehensive platforms that address a wide array of issues.

5. Fundraising and Media Marginalization:

   • Third-party candidates often need help with fundraising. They need more financial resources and established donor networks that major parties enjoy.
   • Additionally, the media tends to focus on the major-party candidates during election cycles. Third-party candidates receive less coverage, which limits their visibility and ability to reach potential voters3.

In conclusion, while third parties offer alternative visions and ideas, they face an uphill battle due to structural and perceptual challenges. Despite these obstacles, their presence occasionally impacts elections, and some experts believe that the 2024 election could be exceptionally close, potentially making third-party candidacies decisive. Certainly! Third parties in the United States are exciting to our political landscape. Let's explore them:

1. The Two-Party System:

   • The U.S. political system is predominantly two-party, with the Democratic Party and the Republican Party dominating.
   • Laws, party rules, and historical customs have solidified this structure. These two major parties have held sway over American politics since the mid-1800s.

2. Third Parties:

   • Third parties, or minor parties, exist alongside the major players. They offer alternative platforms and perspectives but need help in gaining widespread influence.
   • Some of the more notable third parties include:
     • Green Party: Known for its environmental focus, it has fielded presidential candidates in recent elections. Ralph Nader, a consumer advocate, ran as the Green Party candidate in 2000 and gained over 2 million votes.
     • Libertarians: The Libertarian Party, the oldest of the third parties, advocates for a reduced role in government. While no Libertarian candidate has ever become president, party members hold elected offices at the state and local levels.
     • Constitution Party: Formerly known as the American Taxpayers Party, this party emphasizes a strict interpretation of the Constitution and advocates for more power at the state and local levels.
     • Reform Party: In 1992, the Reform Party nominated Texas billionaire Ross Perot as its presidential candidate. Perot's focus on reducing the federal budget deficit influenced subsequent campaigns.
     • Natural Law Party: This party promotes holistic approaches to health and education, drawing from principles of natural law.

3. Influence and Challenges:

   • Third parties face an uphill battle due to the winner-takes-all nature of U.S. elections. In most cases, the candidate with the most votes in a state wins all its electoral votes, leaving little room for third-party candidates.
   • However, third parties have occasionally impacted elections. For instance:
     • In 1844, third-party vote splitting affected the outcome.
     • In 2000, Ralph Nader's presence as a Green Party candidate drew votes away from Al Gore, potentially influencing the election.
     • In 2016, third-party votes may have affected the margin of victory.
   • Despite these challenges, third parties contribute ideas and policies that sometimes become part of American political life and law.

In summary, while the Democrats and Republicans dominate, third parties persist as voices for change and alternative visions. Their impact may only sometimes be immediate, but they play a vital role in shaping the broader political discourse. Hird parties in the United States face several significant challenges, contributing to their limited success within the existing political landscape. Let's explore these obstacles:

1. Historical Persistence of the Two-Party System:

   • The U.S. has long operated under a two-party system, with the Democratic Party and the Republican Party dominating electoral politics. These parties have deep historical roots and well-established structures.
   • Despite occasional shifts and realignments, the modern Republicans and Democrats have endured despite significant political upheavals. This persistence makes it difficult for upstart third parties to dislodge the status quo1.

2. Electoral System Design:

   • The American electoral system plays a crucial role in limiting third-party success. In most U.S. elections, votes are counted using plurality rules ("winner take all"). Whoever
     
     
     Gets the most votes and wins the single seat up for election.
   • In contrast, many other democracies use different systems that allow for proportional representation. In those systems, multiple political parties can thrive because seats are awarded based on the percentage of votes each party receives.
   • Unfortunately, the winner-takes-all approach in the U.S. tends to favor the major parties, making it challenging for third parties to gain a foothold1.

3. Perceptions of Wasted Votes:

   • Many voters feel that voting for a third-party candidate is a waste, especially if that candidate is unlikely to win. They fear that their vote won't contribute to a viable outcome.
   • The pressure to vote strategically—choosing between the lesser of two evils—often discourages voters from supporting third-party candidates. As a result, these candidates struggle to gain traction despite their unique platforms and ideas2.

4. Focus on Single Personalities or Issues:

   • Third parties sometimes face challenges related to their narrow focus. They may center their campaigns around a single personality (such as a charismatic candidate) or an issue (such as environmental conservation or civil liberties).
   • While this approach can attract passionate supporters, it can also lead to less popularity among a broader range of voters. Major parties, on the other hand, tend to have more comprehensive platforms that address a wide array of issues2.

5. Fundraising and Media Marginalization:

   • Third-party candidates often need help with fundraising. They need more financial resources and established donor networks that major parties enjoy.
   • Additionally, the media tends to focus on the major-party candidates during election cycles. Third-party candidates receive less coverage, which limits their visibility and ability to reach potential voters3.

In conclusion, while third parties offer alternative visions and ideas, they face an uphill battle due to structural and perceptual challenges. Despite these obstacles, their presence occasionally impacts elections, and some experts believe that the 2024 election could be exceptionally close, potentially making third-party candidacies decisive4. Feel free to ask if you'd like to explore more topics or have additional questions! 🌟

1: Big Think - 3 major reasons third parties fail in the U.S. 2: ipl.org - Why Some Obstacles Third Parties Face 3: The Politics Watcher - The Struggle of Third-Party Candidates in the Two-Party System 

L. Ron Hubbard, the founder of Scientology, developed a system of ethics within the context of the Church of Scientology.

 L. Ron Hubbard, the founder of Scientology, developed a system of ethics within the context of the Church of Scientology. Let’s explore the origins and principles of this ethical framework:

1. Scientology Ethics System:

   • L. Ron Hubbard created a collection of policies and procedures related to ethics and justice within Scientology.
   • According to Scientology, ethics refers to “the actions an individual takes on himself.” At the same time, justice involves “the action taken on the individual by the group when he fails to take these actions himself” 1.
   • The goal is to ensure Scientologists adhere to specific rules of conduct and moral choices.

2. Conditions Formulas:

   • Hubbard discovered that different states of existence are associated with specific formulas.
   • These formulas can be applied to improve various aspects of life.
   • For example, a person can assess the condition of a particular area in their life and apply a relevant formula to enhance that condition 2.

3. Purpose of Ethics:

   • Hubbard stated that the purpose of ethics is twofold:
     • Initially, it aims to remove counter intentions from the environment.
     • Once achieved, its purpose shifts to eliminating other intentionedness from the environment.
   • Ethics serves as a tool to facilitate the dissemination of Scientology technology 1.

4. Criticism and Concerns:

   • Critics argue that Scientology ethics can be wielded arbitrarily and absurdly.
   • For instance, in the 1960s, British Scientologists declared a local pie shop “suppressive” for not carrying enough apple pie 1.
   • Some view Scientology’s ethical system as unique to benefit the Church’s interests and impose its philosophy onto society 1.

In summary, L. Ron Hubbard’s ethical system within Scientology combines moral principles, formulas, and rules of conduct to guide Scientologists in their actions and decision-making 3. Remember that perspectives on Scientology and its ethics vary widely, and opinions may differ significantly. If you’d like to explore further, feel free to ask!

Ethical DNA

 Ethical DNA refers to the ethical considerations and implications of genetic information, genome editing, and the responsible use of DNA technologies. Let’s explore some aspects of ethical DNA:

1. Genome Editing and Germline Interventions:

   • CRISPR/Cas9 Genome Editing: CRISPR/Cas9 is a powerful tool that allows scientists to make precise changes in DNA. It has potential applications in correcting genetic disorders and targeting disease-causing mutations.
   • Germline Editing: Germline genome editing involves modifying the DNA of embryos during early development. Any changes introduced will be passed on to future generations.
   • Ethical Debate: Germline editing raises questions about ethics, governance, and responsible application. Public controversy emerged when Chinese researchers announced human embryo editing in 2015 and, later, the birth of twin girls with a modified gene for HIV resistance. Some argue for its therapeutic potential, while others express reservations about safety and eugenic concerns 1.

2. MoralDNA®:

   • MoralDNA® is a tool that helps individuals understand their moral decision-making processes. It acts as a “moral mirror,” revealing how people determine what is right or wrong 2.

3. Unique Ethical Challenges in Genetics:

   • ELSI (Ethical, Legal, and Social Issues): Accessing and using genetic information clinically can have unique ethical implications. Unlike most medical information, identifying a genetic variant in a patient may also diagnose close relatives without their consent 3.

4. Safety and Privacy Concerns:

   • Recombinant DNA Risks: DNA technologies, including genome modification, raise safety concerns.
   • Privacy Issues: Genetic fingerprinting and personalized genetic information require guidelines and regulations to ensure safe and ethical use 4.

In summary, ethical DNA encompasses the responsible handling of genetic information, the moral dimensions of genome editing, and the need for thoughtful governance in this rapidly advancing field. In 2015, Chinese scientists sparked a significant ethical debate using the CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing tool to modify human embryos. Specifically, they altered a gene involved in HIV entry into cells, aiming to create embryos with HIV resistance. Here are the key points:

1. The Experiment:

   • The scientist responsible for this controversial work was Jiankui He.
   • He announced the birth of the world’s first gene-edited babies, twin girls, who had an edited gene that reduced the risk of contracting HIV.
   • The embryos were modified to carry a mutation in the CCR5 gene, which is associated with resistance to HIV.

2. Ethical Concerns:

   • The announcement led to swift condemnation from researchers and ethicists.
   • Critics argued that implanting edited embryos to create babies was premature and exposed the children to unnecessary health risks.
   • There were fears about creating “designer babies” with enhanced traits like intelligence or athleticism.

3. Controversy and Criticism:

   • Many experts believed that the editing of the twin girls’ DNA was not lifesaving and did not prevent disease.
   • Safer methods exist to protect someone from contracting HIV without resorting to gene editing.
   • The scientists involved were accused of violating ethical norms surrounding this technology1.

4. Legal Consequences:

   • In 2019, He Jiankui was convicted of violating a government ban by carrying out the gene-editing procedure.
   • He was sentenced to three years in prison for his actions.

While gene editing holds immense promise for treating genetic diseases, it raises complex ethical questions. The case of CRISPR-edited babies remains a pivotal moment in the ongoing debate about the responsible use of this technology in human embryos.

Ethical Relativism

 Ethical philosophy began in the fifth century BCE, with the appearance of Socrates, a secular prophet whose self-appointed mission was to awaken his fellow men to the need for rational criticism of their beliefs and practices 1. The study of ethics, concerned with what is morally good and evil and ethically correct and wrong, has a rich history that spans various cultures and periods.

Here are some key points about the history of ethics:

1. Ancient Ethical Thinking:

   • Greek Sophists (5th Century BCE): These early thinkers engaged in critical discussions about morality and virtue. They questioned traditional beliefs and norms.
   • Precepts in Ancient Egypt (Around 3,000 BCE): Surviving writings include lists of moral principles for boys of the ruling class in Egypt. These precepts emphasized ethical behavior 2.

2. Classical Philosophers:

   • Socrates (469–399 BCE): Socrates challenged conventional wisdom through dialogue and questioning. His emphasis on self-examination and critical thinking laid the foundation for ethical inquiry.
   • Plato (427–347 BCE): Plato explored ethical concepts in his dialogues, including the nature of justice, the ideal state, and the role of reason.
   • Aristotle (384–322 BCE): Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics remains influential. He discussed virtues, eudaimonia (flourishing), and the golden mean.

3. Roman Stoicism and Epicureanism:

   • Stoicism: Stoic philosophers like Seneca, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius emphasized virtue, self-discipline, and acceptance of fate.
   • Epicureanism: Epicurus focused on pleasure (not hedonism) as the tranquility of the soul achieved through moderation and wisdom.

4. Medieval and Renaissance Ethics:

   • St. Augustine (354–430 CE): His work blended Christian theology with Platonic thought, addressing free will, sin, and divine grace.
   • Thomas Aquinas (1225–1274 CE): Aquinas integrated Aristotelian ethics into Christian theology, emphasizing natural law and virtue.

5. Modern Ethical Theories:

   • Enlightenment Era: Philosophers like Immanuel Kant (1724–1804) developed deontological ethics (duty-based) and emphasized moral principles.
   • Utilitarianism: Jeremy Bentham (1748–1832) and John Stuart Mill (1806–1873) advocated for maximizing overall happiness (utility) as the ethical goal.

6. Contemporary Ethics:

   • Applied Ethics: Fields like bioethics, environmental, and business ethics address practical moral dilemmas.
   • Ethical Relativism: Debates continue about cultural relativism vs. universal ethical principles.

Ethics has evolved over centuries, shaped by diverse thinkers, cultural contexts, and philosophical traditions. Its exploration of moral questions remains relevant today. 

The Crucifixion Scene

 When Jesus was crucified, He uttered poignant, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” These words are recorded in both Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34. Let’s explore the significance of this cry:

1. The Crucifixion Scene:

   • Jesus was hanging on the cross, enduring immense physical pain and emotional anguish.
   • Darkness covered the land from the sixth hour until the ninth hour (Matthew 27:45).
   • About the ninth hour (around 3:00 PM), Jesus cried out with a loud voice.

2. The Cry:

   • Jesus said, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” which means, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” (Matthew 27:46).
   • This cry reflects Jesus’ deep distress and sense of abandonment.

3. The Meaning:

   • Jesus, who was sinless, took upon Himself the sins of humanity. He became a sin for us (2 Corinthians 5:21).
   • In that moment, Jesus fell under the judgment of God—not because of His own sins, but because of ours.
   • The cry reveals the weight of our sin and the separation it caused between Jesus and God.
   • It echoes Psalm 22, a messianic psalm, where King David shares a vision of what will happen to the Lord’s Messiah.
   • Psalm 22:1 begins with the exact words: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”
   • Jesus, by quoting this verse, points to the fulfillment of prophecy and the depth of His sacrifice.

4. Psalm 22:

   • Psalm 22 describes the suffering of the Messiah.
   • Verses in Psalm 22 parallel the crucifixion narrative:
     • Mocking by enemies (Psalm 22:6-8; Matthew 27:35-44, Mark 15:29-32).
     • Division of garments by casting lots (Psalm 22:18; Matthew 27:35).
     • Lament and dependence upon God (Psalm 22:3-5, 9-11, 19-31).

5. God’s Love and Redemption:

   • Despite feeling forsaken, Jesus’ cry reveals His dependence on God and gratitude for His grace.
   • God’s love for humanity was fully realized through Jesus’ sacrifice.
   • The cross symbolizes redemption, reconciliation, and restoring our relationship with God.

In that moment of agony, Jesus bore our sins and experienced separation from God so that we might find forgiveness and eternal life through Him.

reincarnation is a fundamental belief

 In Hinduism, reincarnation is a fundamental belief that operates within the karma framework. Let's explore this concept:

1. Karma and Reincarnation:

   • Karma refers to the law of action and reaction. It governs life and is not fate; rather, it arises from our actions and their consequences.
   • Reincarnation (rebirth) is the process by which the soul takes multiple births, moving from one body to another.
   • Hindus believe that human beings can create good or bad consequences through their actions (karma). These consequences may manifest in various ways:
     • In the current life.
     • In a future human rebirth.
     • In heavenly or hell realms, the self is reborn for a specific period1.

2. Choice and Consequences:

   • The idea of choice in reincarnation is nuanced:
     • Individual Agency: Humans have free will and can choose their actions. These choices accumulate as karma.
     • Karmic Results: The soul reaps the effects of its own actions. If we cause suffering to others, we will experience suffering ourselves. We will receive love and kindness in return if we love and give.
     • Destiny Creation: Each soul shapes destiny through thought, feeling, and action.
   • Good or bad karma determines the quality of the next birth. If someone has good karma, their next birth may be better than their previous one.

3. Cyclic Nature of Rebirth:

   • Reincarnation occurs cyclically, with no clear beginning or end. This process, called samsara, involves perpetual attachments and continuous rebirths.
   • The soul's journey through various lives is influenced by its accumulated karma.
   • Ultimately, the goal is to break free from this cycle and attain moksha (liberation) by transcending karma and realizing the true nature of the self.

In summary, Hinduism acknowledges individual agency and actions' consequences, shaping the soul's journey through countless rebirths.