Presumably, Civilization means some sort of group association and cooperation, including a government with the responsibility of organizing and  controlling  the people who are members of the civilized community.  Basically, the Randian idea that the individual is absolutely supreme and should never be thwarted in his/her goals is antithetical to the fundimental idea of civilization.

How much power should the government have to enforce the rules of civilized behavior? 

In a Representative Democracy, what is the primary responsibility of the elected representatives? 

Should Representatives only adhere to the viewpoint of those who elected them; or should they modify their positions to help and keep the government they are an elected part of fully functioning as their oath of office demands? 

The currant Congressional oath of office for the US reads:

Either comment below or at your site and link us .

How's that for  nice non-controversial subject?

This is one of those times of the year when almost all religions have some special rites or observances, so a look at the religious influence you feel is probably appropriate.

How important is your religion in your life?

Almost all religions preach some form of non-violence. What is, in your opinion, the major impact of religion in the modern world?

Comment below, or comment at your site and link below.

Reminder: Flaming will not be tolerated; reasonable (and reasoned) disagreement is OK.

What do you have to be thankful for?

The 2012 election may be one of the most important U. S. elections of the past one hundred years as far as the World is concerned. The electors will choose a President who personally represents a sea change in American politics - the rise of a coalition of minority groups that will probably control the country's legislative future. These groups (Blacks, Latinos, Women, and younger voters) were enough to overcome the declining traditional white male dominated majority of voters.

What, in your opinion, will be the impact of this election on the rest of the world?

Post your reply below or at your site and notify us. I'll link you.

And now for something different.....

Have you ever helped a stranger in a serious/life threatening situation?

Why did you go to their aid?

Please post your answer below, or at your site and notify me below - I'll link you.

Traditionally, the rules of ethical behavior have been the responsibility of our religious institutions. In a multi-cultural society - indeed a multi-cultural world, with instant world-wide communication - religious ethical values may be at odds with each other. 

What should be the basis of Ethical Behavior in a multi-cultural society and how should ethical differences be resolved?

Please comment below or at your site and place a link below.

Soc will be traveling for the next week and finds it a nuisance to set his computer up in hotel rooms - he refuses to use his iPhone as part of this blog - probably showing his age.

At any rate, here's a question to ponder:

What is the most important single change that would improve the world at this time?

Comment below or post your comments at your site and notify us below

World events and the current American political contest has led to more attention being paid the the social class structures of different countries and cultures than is generally the case. American political opponents have accused each other of "Class Warfare" and some Middle Eastern leaders have accused the US of trying to impose its version of class and moral structure on their nations with little regard to traditional Islamic values.

In all cultures, economic success plays a part in determining class structure and status, but other factors are also important: Heredity, Education, popularity, political or religious standing, are all among other factors which make up social standing.

How would you characterize  Social Class in America? How many classes do we have and how are they structured? Where do you fit?

Comment below or post your comments at you site and notify me below - I'll link you

As part of our political discussion, I thought some of you might have an opinion on how wide the voting franchise should be. In some countries only property owners can vote, in others only family heads, in others only men over a certain age, in others only those of a certain religion. In some countries, you are required to register and vote - fined if you don't.

Who should be allowed to vote?

Answer below, or post your answer at your site and notify me below. I'll link you