What a long strange trip its been.

the Great Debate

2011-03-28T22:20:00.001-04:00

newscopy.org

From the beginning of human civilization, a common recurring theme has continued to surface. That theme begs an essential social question. What must certain members have to give up to improve the general well-being of their fellow compatriots? We have seen great civilizations rise and fall, many of which were run by a select group of tyrants who greatly oppressed their people. However, in 1776, a new and ingenious country came to life. It stated that it was a nation of the people, by the people, for the people. Of course that was not entirely true then, nor is it now. Like any great country, the United States has the chance to progress forward every day and help more and more people achieve something close to the American dream. However, paradoxically the small upper class minority in this country has artificially taken power over those below them. In a country like America, this should simply not be the case. The power of the working majority, those that fuel the nation are whom should have the power and must. However, constantly those running corporate America find ways to restrict the possibilities of those under them in the socioeconomic ladder. They do this in many ways. But today, I think It would be interesting to take a look at how they have literally put a price on life and death and how this brings us here to discuss the debate on healthcare.

First, it's important to evaluate the state of the American health system. About a year ago, President Obama signed into place a health care reform plan that theoretically overhauled the American health care system. This plan did two big things in my mind. First, it greatly encourages companies to provide health insurance to all of their workers by charging them $2,000 per uninsured worker. Companies with 50 or fewer employees are exempt. However, there have always been types of incentives for companies to offer health coverage to their employees. Not only have they found ways around it, but more importantly, the health insurance companies themselves have consistently found ways to screw over the very people they are meant to protect when those people need help the most. Obama's health plan helped stifle such immoral behavior by creating a federal health insurance regulatory board to essentially monitor our nation's health companies and block certain actions such as sudden rate increases.

Obama has many good things in said plan but a lot of work still needs to be done in order to get every single American insured. Somehow, the number of uninsured Americans actually increased last year and did so substantially up about 3 million, as reported by the Center for Disease Control/Prevention. The overall number currently stands at about 50 million. This is because unemployment continues to be rampant and health care still finds itself entwined with jobs. New legislation ensures that young people can hitch a ride on their parents' insurance plans up through age 26. Also, an important step has been taken with the Affordable care Act that theoretically eliminates health insurance companies banning your coverage when you need it most.

But, we cannot rest assured until every American not only has health coverage but coverage that is guaranteed to pay for whatever health hazards come their way. A vast majority of the health care discussion always comes back to disparity in America. A cycle exists where it is most profitable for top companies to exploit those already at the bottom of the ditch. They give the poor the worst education in the worst neighborhoods. They make it so that the most affordable food and therefore the best option day in and day out is McDonalds, Burger Kind etc... They then act like it is a coincidence that Hispanics are 50% more likely to die from Diabetes than whites. A continued indirect racism takes place in America, one that on the whole continues to build up the statuses of already powerful whites while discouraging immigration and saying that those from inner cities are somehow more lazy than those given ridiculous advantages in life. By giving every American health care, we provide a starting block for everyone, regardless of their race or geographic location. This will only work simultaneously with education reform to help end helpless cylces in impoverished America. However, healthcare is a simple step in moving toward helping the possibilities of achieving the American dream. When more people have a chance, competition increases and general quality of work goes up. Nearly every other sensible country in the world realizes this. Why can't we?

-twil

sources: time magazine, center for american progress, whitehouse.gov, CDC

James Wenning's perspective

2011-03-22T23:15:00.000-04:00

The fact that you do not understand any of your former friends' posts points out your biggest flaw of all; that you cannot accept anyone's ideas except your own. You only hang around with or talk to others for personal amusement or because they have something you want to manipulate out of them. Further more, you refuse to believe that anyone's ideas but your own are correct, shown clearly through your ignorance to all of your former friends' addvice and warnings and don't give me the bullshit answer "I agree with you" to make it seem like you understand because you don't. Your parrents tried to help you, had sympathy for you by offering you rewards if you even showed signs of getting back on track, but you spat right in their faces as soon as they handed over what you wanted. I tried to be your friend, and you punched me for breaking a fucking stick and nearly set me on fire. Maybe if you at least respected people for trying to help you, even if you didn't believe in the system they were trying to bring you into I might at least sympathize or respect your views. Your parrents won't tollerate you forever, Eric, and when their money runs out you're going to get quite the wake up call. In a way, I still do sympathize for you. All I can say is good luck, but I can no longer tollerate being near you until you change.
-James

You deleted my comment. Why is that Eric? I'll tell you why, it's because you hate anyone who doesn't kowtow to your every order, it's because I actually pointed out every legitimate flaw in your style of life. Why? Why do spit in the faces of your parrents? I mean you can rebel against the system, but hypocritically, you manipulate your parrents by going along with it to make them happy enough to reward you, then you scream at them and claim to be a justified, persecuted revolutionary. You manipulate people's compassion to succeed, and yes, you do have potential but you should be able to tell that you can't stomp on people forever to succeed, especially when everyone in this blog is telling you they've had enough. This is a legitimate counterpoint to your beliefs and therefore has the righ to be part of the discussion. If you delete this, you are a coward who can't accept deffeat since you cannot create a counterpoint. And don't deny that this is how you function because it is.
-James

Well then, I am merely rebutting your example and pointing out its flaws. And perhaps I did get a little personal with that last post. It's you choice whether or not you repost it.
-James

The first post is the one James thought i deleted, for some reason it deletes longer comments, if yours doesn't show up, feel free to contact me and i can make it a post so you can get your point across.

I do not censor comments or posts unless they contain links to porn.

Now that that is out of the way i would like to say a few things regarding what he has to say.

First, when it comes to my parents, i choose not to discuss them specifically for personal reasons. So, from where you stand it may look like i am a dick to my parents, and you would be right, but only half so, there is a lot going on behind the scenes, so i would prefer if you left the relationship i have with my parents out of any points you wish to make.

Secondly, it is not that i never take others views because thats just how i am, no, if someone makes a valid point that is backed up by irrefutable evidence i will of course believe in that idea, however, i believe that you should think the way you want to and in what you believe, whether is is right, wrong, opinion, or theological. Its more about being yourself than not listening to others, also all the points i said i agree with i honestly do. School is important, it makes life easier, it gets you connections, it helps develop social skills, writing skills (which i lack) and many other points that were put out there, im not arguing school is bad, just that it isnt necessary.

Next, dont rehash old events, and only a few people know the what happened at the crew party, however if you took that personally i apologize, i never intended it to be that way. i was merely angry that you basically went with the "if i cant have it no one can" approach, and maybe i went overboard, people make mistakes, you have, everyone on here with beef has. Maybe im making a mistake by not going to school, but i have the right too, and if i think i can succeed in doing that, if not then sucks for me right? but there is no reason for everyone to hate in the comments.

Last, on the manipulating people to get what i want, isn't that a good thing? look at Marc Zuckerburg, he dropped his friends shares by 1000% and took all the money for himself. Is he a dick? YES, is he the worlds youngest billionaire? YES! It may not be nice or the right thing to do, and im certainly not saying im the next marc zuckerburg, all im saying is that seems to work out pretty well in the end.

James if you truly want to not be friends with me because my choice of education, or my relationship with my parents, the fact that im flawed (like we all are), or fight for myself, then YOU are the dick.
But, you have every right to be a dick, and if thats what you want, then ok. Good Luck in life. or Semper Fi

-Eric Maier

refresher.

2011-03-22T22:24:00.000-04:00

Just a quick refresher, this is a discussion blog, its not specifically about anything. Sure if people want to hate, they have every right, and maybe i should have started with a different topic, but what is done is done.
If people decide to not be friends with me because of my educational choices then they were never true friends anyway, so its just weeding the people out who dont belong.

Finally, i just used myself as an example, this was not meant to be about me, maybe i didnt do the best job of keeping on schooling itself, but again whats done is done. This was meant to compile ideas on topics, which i know the group who i have done this with before will agree, you learn more from this in 15min than in a day of schooling.

Next week, im thinking of tackling healthcare, thats more of an debate, or the theories such as String Theories, the "Theory of Everything" and other universe and dimension based theories, if you are interested in any of these please let me know.

The main event. Taylor Wilson's perspective

2011-03-22T20:54:00.002-04:00

why school is one of the few things society gets right

I feel as if the first major post of this blog sparked some serious talking points. The debate seems to have taken a turn toward talking about Eric more than organized education/schooling as a whole. I'll attempt to address the greater issue at hand as well as the specific anecdote that is Eric.

Firstly, it is my opinion that organized education quite simply works. When Eric looks at school, he sees a place where he has to multiply radicals, write analytical essays on books he feels are irrelevant to him, and talk about the differences between preterite/imperfect verb tenses. He says to himself, "I'd be much better off sleeping in, getting some breakfast and then doing a variety of activities that actually enhance my life and make me happy." But the truth is, at least how i see it, that Eric gained a solid basis for everything he knows from either school or his parents. If Eric had never stepped foot in a school, he would not have known how to positively interact with other human beings and solve problems. I think he may be forgetting some of the key principles he has learned in school or he doesn't credit school with giving him such knowledge.

Now, an arguing point to this could be that human beings are naturally inquisitive. From the very beginning of human kind, people asked themselves questions and were able to answer these after experimenting and testing things out for themselves. One could say they will do that on their own with or without school But the things we learn in school use these basic concepts in an organized fashion and ensure that every person gets an equal opporrtunity to progress. We NEED a system of organized schooling because of where modern day society puts us. It is true that there are entire cities in this country (my hometown of Atlanta's public schools for example) where schools seem to have very little affect on changing the specific society that they exist to help. The issue of inequality in schools, i think, is another issue. But the truth is that schools offer an excellent organized pathway to success. Can you potentially learn more outside of school than in it? Absolutely! But you can do whatever you want outside of school. The reasons that i hear from Eric as to his unwillingness to attend classes comes down to his lack of interest in the subject matter and his laziness at doing work he doesn't give a shit about. However, one MUST make sacrifices in order to be successful. The truth is that 99.9 % of people have to follow the society's guidelines in some shape or form. Society's guidelines state simply that if you don't have a HS diploma you are very very unlikely to succeed. Can you? maybe. But why try to get around such a simple path to success. Now this certainly does not apply to this country as a whole, as millions don't have proper health benefits and can't go to class because they have to work three jobs to support their siblings. But when you can go to New Canaan High School and know that if you at least go to class, you will have a much simpler path to success, you should take it. The only reason that I see for your not going to school is that you enjoy the lifestyle you have without it and feel like you learn more. You could continue your blacksmithing, engineering designs, and whatever else you want while also experiencing an education at high school. The only thing I can see is a combination of laziness(which I have my fair share of) and an intense anarchist view at society (which is not an entirely terrible thing, but when mishandled can lead to destruction and complete depression).

Eric, I applaud your going against the system. But that is only a good thing when it helps people. Leaving high school helps nobody including yourself, and I think you MAY regret it later. Unless you are one hundred percent certain of what you're going to do in life, school can also help you to figure that part out. Your passions can wait until you at least graduate high school. That way you have something to fall back on if needed. Not telling you what to do, because I think you're one of the brightest kids in our grade and could become one of the most successful. I just think going to school is such an important thing in one's life, even when you don't take a huge fascination in the specific subject matter covered....

-twil

I totally agree with everything Taylor said except when he tried to sneak in that bit about healthcare. (wait till next week Taylor, we will cover healthcare, i promise)

Guest Post

2011-03-22T20:10:00.000-04:00

A short guest post submitted by Charles Gaglione, a friend from crew.

Eric i actually respect what you are trying to say, and i agree with some of your points. However it is great that you have patents *pending* and *potential* buyers, but you are basing a lot of your actions on the assumption that your patents will be put through and that someone will actually pay you for your work. it is possible to be successful without schooling; in the past 100 years there have been maybe 80 people who did what you are saying and were profitable. However, there are the other millions that have dropped out and gone either to the army or nowhere in the same amount of time. I know that you are a creative person and that although your very lazy on most things, you are devoted to things you enjoy, so i have no doubt that you could make something great. That does not mean that you will make it big, just that you can make something. So consider this: yes schooling is not required for success, but it is a strong foundation to launch yourself from and to fall back on in the future if you needed to. I may not be the closest friend you have, you may even hate me. I don't really care about that, but i consider you a friend so at least consider graduating high school so you can at least say you have a HS diploma if you should need to show a resume. Because most perspective buyers will not be thrilled buying a design (especially a weapon) from some teenager who has not graduated HS. it's not good to have on a resume, and that you *do* need regardless of what you do. So i do not declare beef with you because i respect your philosophy, just be open to mine and other peoples considerations and take them with great sincerity.

-Charles

First of all, Charles i do not hate you, and i do consider you a friend. Next Charles makes some great points, nothing guaranteed, i may fail miserably and be a homeless person, or some lowly private in the Army. But, that was not the point i was making, im trying to say that it isn't required; yes it is helpful, yes it is a great foundation, and yes it is the right option for 99% of people. I want to make the point however that you shouldnt feel like you have to attend school in order to succeed, you can do anything if you put your mind to, and the only time something is impossible is when YOU believe it to be. So, my friends, former friends, and people who seem to hate me. Reach for your dreams, take that leap of faith, if you feel thats what you need to do. Dont let anyone or anything hold you back!

Posting.

2011-03-22T19:18:00.000-04:00

So, many of you are vehement about the topic posted so far, which is exactly what i expected and wanted. This blog is to stir up the pot, talk about the controversial topics, break from the norm.

So, everyone probably thinks they hurt or pissed me off with their comments, however it is the exact opposite, im proud that people are finally being honest, even if it isnt the nice thing to do, the next step is to do it know (meaning not anonymous) the ones that did put their names on their posts deserve extra recognition.

Now, if you think your point of view is important, has enough support, and you dont want a tiny little spot in the comments, email me a post. you can then comment on the post certifying that i did not edit anything (which i will not).

Finally, maybe i should have picked a less controversial and current topic for the first post, but maybe that drew some of you in. However, this is not all the blog is about, its about issues in general so dont worry if you dont have a post for this topic, we will move on soon.

Thank you

Starting early...

2011-03-21T22:54:00.002-04:00

I would like to start a day early on the discussions, mainly because im bored, but also because i just heard a song that brings up some points i have heard recently.

Schooling: Have i been going to school? No, i have not. Why? its boring as hell, and i just sick of the bullshit. Do we need schooling? Its a topic that should be hotly debated however the simple answer that schooling is important has been ingrained into the populace, people simply believe that High School+good grades+good college=good job=lots of money. Can this be true? Of course, but is it the only option? NO! Yes you can become hugely successful by getting into Wharton, and becoming a CEO. But there are many other ways.
Im sure many of you are disgusted or confused as to my total contempt of schooling, authority, and the "system" im also sure some are impressed or envious. But how many of you think i will fail at life? the vast majority most likely, why do you believe that? Is it because i act like a hobbo? or get drunk? or get in trouble with the law? do i look like a failure? NO, you believe this because it has been beaten into you that schooling is the only way to be successful, you have to swim with the school (no pun intended), and follow what people have been doing for generations. BUT, DO YOU? ask your self this. While you are learning how to analyze the deeper meaning of some obscure book, I have two pending patents, and an offer of at least $250,000 on one. It is a design for a weapon, and i have the choice of either $750,000 base and $100 for each unit sold, or $250,000 and $500 per unit sold. So, if i think the product will bomb i take the 3/4 of a million, if i think it will sell tons ill take the higher per unit price. For instance, if the weapon sells 1,000 units i can make either $850,000 or $750,000. But if the unit sells 10,000 units i can make either $1,750,000 or $5,250,000. Thats a lot of money and yet i have failed 11 class semesters in my high school career.
Is school important? yes it is. Is it necessary however? No. What is necessary is Knowledge, Intelligence, Drive, Willpower, Creativity, and a willingness to break the system, to swim against the tide , to say "dont tell me what i can do, i can do anything i want!"

There will be a guest poster tomorrow night on this topic. He may agree, he may disagree, or he may elaborate. That is up to him, but you can tell me what you think in the comments.

IF you would like to make a formal post in response to this topic, please send me a Facebook message, that is the most sure way to get in contact with me.

PS: click the ad, i get money for every click ;P

OK so, im going to elaborate here in order to iron some things out, first, anyone can post anonymously, so go ahead and say whatever you like, i dont really care, however the point of this was to discuss things, if you dont agree with what im saying, then give your point, you can submit a post ripping anything i said to shreds, thats fine, however posting "omg i hate you because "insert whatever comes to your mind first" that isnt very effective, is there proof that i am a "paranoid schizophrenic"? no, because i am not. SO, if you disagree state a point, not just blind hate.
I would like to applaud the comment of "like communism, it sounds good on paper but doesn't really work" [paraphrased] that is an excellent point, he or she is correct, first of all i cant even make the decision until i am 18, and you never know what can happen in that time. secondly, sure the numbers look good on paper, the design may sell NO units, i cant be sure. But, the problem is your missing the point, this has nothing to do with the weapon, just that the beaten path isn't always the only way to go.

So, for those of you who chose to make comments with sense, purpose, and a point, thank you. for those that chose not to and blindly hate, or throw around accusations, hiding behind the "anonymous" i would appreciate if you would, delete your comment, and then re-submit one that has some purpose. Now, saying that i WILL NOT, delete comments (unless they are links to porn, etc) so im not going to censor this, you can say whatever you would like, however it is much more productive, and effective to post something with meaning, something people will read rather than passing over as someone who doesnt like something but doesnt have the sense to make a point against it.

Housekeeping

2011-03-21T11:08:00.000-04:00

so lets start with a few house keeping things.

Monday: Open

Tuesday: Philosophical musings, political rants, etc.

Wednesday: Guest posts (including rebuttals (or agreements) on the previous days post

Thursday: Open

Friday: Open

Saturday: Open

Sunday: Rumors and the like

Open days are subject to my whims, and i cant promise daily posts either

I would like to officially open with some things about me:

I am Eric Gustave Maier, my middle name is my grandfathers. I am currently 16 years old and my birthday is June 8th. I like climbing, rowing, shooting, driving fast and other misc. outdoor adrenaline pumping activities. I dislike heights, water, the cold, the snow, hippies, communists, zombies, homework, my parents, people who tell me what i can and cant do, and slow drivers (slow being 10 above the speed limit). I used to be what you could call a "hard-core" gamer, i played everything from Call of Duty to Madden to World of Warcraft. I still continue to dabble in gaming, although very rarely since winter of sophomore year. Now into some more controversial topics. When it comes to politics i dont believe in parties or sects or whatever the fuck is going on, i have the views of Eric Maier, that simple. if you want to group me, i guess you could say im a hardcore conservative, barring their views on religion (but we will get to that). My views tend to side towards "serve them a helping of ass-kicking, with a side of take their money" if it helps the US im all for it, regardless of the consequences on other nations or the environment. Now, religion, i am an Atheist, not because i hate god, or religion or whatever, just that there is no proof, show me a picture or definitive evidence and i will believe, but until then im a non-believer. ummm well your probably getting bored so im going to continue details later.

Where do I start.

2011-03-20T02:02:00.000-04:00

i've never been good at blogging, in fact, my last blog stopped letting me post after a while... lol

anyway this is a place for me to ramble, and you to probably not even look at, but it gets things out there, ideas, adventures, activities, and may help to quench some rumors.

a few things to remember when reading:

-this is Eric Maier's blog

-i have failed english at least 1 semester each year so dont expect, capitalization, punctuation, spelling, or grammar

-i ramble, a lot

-im crazy, and weird, and strange

-everything here is the truth (or the ideas are, if i make mistakes with outside facts, thats just poor research) (truth only refers to facts about myself, my opinions are to be taken with a grain of salt as all opinions should be)

So, yea, lets get started

PS: NO BEEF, at me or towards anyone