The string of sex assaults in Manchester should hopefully be over, now that police have a 14 your old who pleaded guilty to the crimes. Yep, you read that right, fourteen years old. Oh what a joy it is to live in such modern times.
Out there, there was a kid, who's voice had probably only just broken and was getting his first spots, who figured he would go around and molester the nearest women he could find, in broad daylight no less.
I mean, puberty does weird things to you as a kid, it makes you horny, but we live in the modern age.
Let out your sexual frustration on the internet. Abuse the hand, not your fellow human.
And it's not as if it's a teen thinking it would be cool to admit to the crimes as the women stated that the attacks involved a kid who looked to be that age (unless its another 14yo who wants the infamy (or lack of, I'll get there in a minute) of being a sex-greedy degenerate.
One of the big problems with the law (problem in some cases, not all) is that under 18 year of age it is illegal to release your name to the public. This is good in most cases in that it respects the privacy of the individual, especially if you are the victim, but also if the crime is menial gives you a second chance at a real life.
This is not a menial crime. There are some women out there who will be emotionally scarred for the rest of there lives.
In twenty years time somebody will likely marry this pervert with no knowledge of what he did. Why? Because the law said so. (I know that he will be branded a sex fiend and will have to legally declare that he's a registered sex offender, but does that always work?)
With no knowledge of who this kid is we have no knowledge of what the driving force behind his decision to enact such heinous crimes was.
Was it life at home (probably, normally a overly touchy father or uncle)?
Mental illness (perhaps, though shouldn't he have been under proper observation if this was the case)?
Peer pressure (maybe some sex-themed fight club at school, which will still remain under the radar)?
Video games (because you can stroke the Pokemon in the new game and that's totally like sexual assault)?
What we're left with is the hope that the legal system will see he gets the much needed help...so basically no hope.
In twenty years time he'll be back, no one will know who he is and he'll be more than ready to start again.
Monday, 21 October 2013
Thursday, 26 September 2013
2022 World Cup: Corruption, Lies and Slavery - An Ode to Qatar
Oh Qatar. Your continuing efforts to become the popular kid is only making you out to look like a fucking moron.
Seriously. You expect us to believe that you did not bribe anyone in the FIFA offices to get a chance to host the world cup?
Of course it wouldn't be so far fetched. I mean, it's not like you have any record of corruption and shady politics. And it's not like FIFA has a track record for accepting bribes.
But oh look, you managed to secure the 2022 World Cup with nay stadiums already built.
This looks completely, one hundred percent, above board...
So now we get to the fact you need stadiums before the crucial date. Sure you've got just under ten years to build them but you need to hurry to make sure they are all up to speed.
You've got to go through all the right channels, submit your plans to the planning offices in your legit government, choose sites that will have little if no impact on geological or ecological wonders.
An added bonus will be the thousands of jobs you'll be able to provide, all the lives you'll be able to temporarily improve.
What's that? You're using slave labour?
Of course you are.
Nepalese migrants, seeking a new life, promised hope and freedom and subjected instead to long days in blistering heats with no water or shelter.
Packing them into cramped conditions, allowing disease to spread.
Letting them die in droves knowing that there's another just round the corner to take their place.
The problem is we've already been there. Slavery is no new marvellous invention to us modern countries. We still have to contend with the fact that our ancestors saw a group of humans as sub-human and implored them to do horrible unspeakable things, while horrible unspeakable things were done to them.
This happened not once, but twice.
The effects are still felt even today. You should check the history books.
So here you are, pretending to be the kid with that shiny new watch because you have a city in the middle of the desert that looks like a computer gave birth.
But the truth is you still have a lot of growing up to do.
The rest of us aren't perfect, far from it, but we're slowly learning from our mistakes.
You would think that being able to buy off an entire organisation would allow you to provide the necessary basic human needs for your workers.
You would have thought that a sport where a single player can earn more in a week than a person makes in his lifetime would have enough money to not resort to slavery.
It's only a matter of time.
Seriously. You expect us to believe that you did not bribe anyone in the FIFA offices to get a chance to host the world cup?
Of course it wouldn't be so far fetched. I mean, it's not like you have any record of corruption and shady politics. And it's not like FIFA has a track record for accepting bribes.
But oh look, you managed to secure the 2022 World Cup with nay stadiums already built.
This looks completely, one hundred percent, above board...
So now we get to the fact you need stadiums before the crucial date. Sure you've got just under ten years to build them but you need to hurry to make sure they are all up to speed.
You've got to go through all the right channels, submit your plans to the planning offices in your legit government, choose sites that will have little if no impact on geological or ecological wonders.
An added bonus will be the thousands of jobs you'll be able to provide, all the lives you'll be able to temporarily improve.
What's that? You're using slave labour?
Of course you are.
Nepalese migrants, seeking a new life, promised hope and freedom and subjected instead to long days in blistering heats with no water or shelter.
Packing them into cramped conditions, allowing disease to spread.
Letting them die in droves knowing that there's another just round the corner to take their place.
The problem is we've already been there. Slavery is no new marvellous invention to us modern countries. We still have to contend with the fact that our ancestors saw a group of humans as sub-human and implored them to do horrible unspeakable things, while horrible unspeakable things were done to them.
This happened not once, but twice.
The effects are still felt even today. You should check the history books.
So here you are, pretending to be the kid with that shiny new watch because you have a city in the middle of the desert that looks like a computer gave birth.
But the truth is you still have a lot of growing up to do.
The rest of us aren't perfect, far from it, but we're slowly learning from our mistakes.
You would think that being able to buy off an entire organisation would allow you to provide the necessary basic human needs for your workers.
You would have thought that a sport where a single player can earn more in a week than a person makes in his lifetime would have enough money to not resort to slavery.
It's only a matter of time.
Monday, 26 August 2013
Violent Video Game Forces Kid to Shoot Grandmother, Apparently
So last Thursday an 8 year old kid was playing Grand Theft Auto IV when he suddenly decided to stop playing, pick up a gun and shoot his grandmother in the head.
Naturally the media had an orgasm. They could blame the video game, again.
Let's look at the situation again, ignoring the whole 'violent video games lead to violent behaviour debate'.
An 8 year old kid was playing Grand Theft Auto IV
An 8 year old kid was playing a game that's quite clearly made for adults. That's like putting a cat in charge of a 747. The cat will sit and look at the instruments but it won't understand what the hell is going on. Naturally, the cat is likely to be confused.
But more importantly, who is the idiot who put a cat in charge of a 747.
And even more importantly, who is the irresponsible parent/guardian who gave a child a game that was not meant for children.
He picks up a gun
A child has easy access to a device that has been used for many centuries in the slaughter of humans for political and religious motives.
Why? Why did he have access to it? Who's the idiot who doesn't know the fundamental law in owning a firearm that you do not keep it in reach of children. Do we seriously need to put one of those retarded labels on all guns from now on? Is that what this incident is telling us?
Also, who keeps a loaded gun in their house? That's pretty much just stating that you expect to shoot something or someone some day soon.
Also, why was the kid not being supervised while all this is happening.
And shot his grandmother in the head
OK, so is somewhat more tragic.
But I'm curious to know. How does a kid who has only (apparently) seen guns in a video game suddenly know how to both fire a gun and aim it at an object as small as a persona head. Unless he was at point blank range this was one hell of a lucky shot for a first-timer.
Playing Grand Theft Auto does not automatically make you a better gunman. If it did, the US Army would have bought out Rockstar years ago.
The kid must have had prior shooting experience.
Otherwise, as I said, this was one hell of a lucky shot.
So is the game to blame?
Abso-fucking-lutely not.
If games were as violence-inducing as people claim them to be, the whole of the US would be in a state of anarchy not unlike Syria or Egypt. It'll be like 'The Crazies' (lets say the remake version).
And if the kid did want to shoot someone because of the game? Well it's not the game's fault.
GTA is a violent game, sure, but it's also a richly-satirical world full of exploration and intrigue. The violence is only a minor aspect of it and yet they clearly state "For Adults Only".
If the brakes on your car fail, do you blame the guy who sold you the brakes or the entire Ford Motor Company?
Naturally the media had an orgasm. They could blame the video game, again.
Let's look at the situation again, ignoring the whole 'violent video games lead to violent behaviour debate'.
An 8 year old kid was playing Grand Theft Auto IV
An 8 year old kid was playing a game that's quite clearly made for adults. That's like putting a cat in charge of a 747. The cat will sit and look at the instruments but it won't understand what the hell is going on. Naturally, the cat is likely to be confused.
But more importantly, who is the idiot who put a cat in charge of a 747.
And even more importantly, who is the irresponsible parent/guardian who gave a child a game that was not meant for children.
He picks up a gun
A child has easy access to a device that has been used for many centuries in the slaughter of humans for political and religious motives.
Why? Why did he have access to it? Who's the idiot who doesn't know the fundamental law in owning a firearm that you do not keep it in reach of children. Do we seriously need to put one of those retarded labels on all guns from now on? Is that what this incident is telling us?
Also, who keeps a loaded gun in their house? That's pretty much just stating that you expect to shoot something or someone some day soon.
Also, why was the kid not being supervised while all this is happening.
And shot his grandmother in the head
OK, so is somewhat more tragic.
But I'm curious to know. How does a kid who has only (apparently) seen guns in a video game suddenly know how to both fire a gun and aim it at an object as small as a persona head. Unless he was at point blank range this was one hell of a lucky shot for a first-timer.
Playing Grand Theft Auto does not automatically make you a better gunman. If it did, the US Army would have bought out Rockstar years ago.
The kid must have had prior shooting experience.
Otherwise, as I said, this was one hell of a lucky shot.
So is the game to blame?
Abso-fucking-lutely not.
If games were as violence-inducing as people claim them to be, the whole of the US would be in a state of anarchy not unlike Syria or Egypt. It'll be like 'The Crazies' (lets say the remake version).
And if the kid did want to shoot someone because of the game? Well it's not the game's fault.
GTA is a violent game, sure, but it's also a richly-satirical world full of exploration and intrigue. The violence is only a minor aspect of it and yet they clearly state "For Adults Only".
If the brakes on your car fail, do you blame the guy who sold you the brakes or the entire Ford Motor Company?
Thursday, 27 June 2013
Door-to-Door Religion, or Why am I Afraid of the Jehovah's Witnesses?
I'm sitting in my kitchen making the most of the weather when
suddenly I spot two smartly dressed men approaching my door and I immediately know who they are and why they are here.
I have two options. Open the door and greet them, or cower and hide. I choose the latter every time, as do most people in this situation. But why?
These men pose no threat, other than a mere inconvenience, and yet I treat them as though they were highly contagious. But who is to blame in this situation. Them or me?
Let's look at the Jehovah's Witnesses first.
First of all there are always two of them and they are always well dressed, normally in a white shirt and black tie and trousers. Often they carry a satchel or briefcase containing various bits of literature on Jesus and God. In other words, you can normally spot one coming from a distance, which is nice as it's kinda like a messenger announcing his presence in a castle.
When at your door they only ring once, or knock the appropriate amount of times (three?) and never hang about for longer than a minute, even if they know someone is inside the house. They might leave you a leaflet through the door, but it's small and easily disposed of.
They are always polite, which in this day and age is a very rare trait to find in a person, however once they start talking they do seem hard to stop (if only because you feel rude trying to interrupt them). But tell them you aren't interested and they thank you for your time and leave.
And then it's over.
Now consider a chugger, or other unwanted door person.
Normally they are dressed in rags (if asking for contribution to something) or over-dressed if looking for (political) support. Others dress like the rest of us, luring us into that false sense of security to open the door in the event that it might be something worthwhile.
They will hang around your door for a while, especially if they know someone is in, often guilt-tripping the house-owner to answer the door just for hanging around for so long. If by chance you resist opening the door you are instead greeted by the sound of a thousand dead trees hitting your door mat - leaflets and booklets about every minor detail that you purposely avoided trying to find out about.
Now the people themselves aren't exactly rude but they always go off on some little tale on how something happened and how they are the only ones who can fix it (or how you can, if they want money). By this point you can look like a complete bastard and refuse or give in and let them take your dignity.
In short, it's not a pleasant experience.
So between the two, the one you would most hope for would be a Jehovah's Witness right? Right?
Wrong?
Why? Because I feel so damn bad turning them down.
They have done absolutely nothing to offend me. All they want is to try to talk about the thing they are most passionate about (like I would tell my friends about a great game of golf I just had) and my response is to tell them "Not interested" and close the door in their face.
It's not like they are standing on the street corners shouting passages from the bible. They aren't strapping explosives to their bodies, killing innocents in the hope of getting laid in heaven. They are just knocking on my door hoping to have a chat. And I won't let them.
I'm not exactly anti-social, and I certainly don't mind telling people to sod off, but for some reason I just can't bring myself to doing it to these people.
Part of what scares me I guess is that they are willing to go door-to-door in the first place, willing to subject themselves to the sneers and jibes of the arseholes they try to talk to.
I couldn't go door-to-door, not in a million years. I'm just not that brave. And the fact there are people who are that brave, in this day and age, scares me.
I had another experience a few years back where some other people knocked on my door (an old couple, in plain clothes, the bastards) and I opened it like a chump. They were peddling some religion (I can't remember which) but the audacity with which they were trying to shove it down my throat prompted me in having some fun of my own.
I'm not exactly proud of this (a lie, I am), but I pretended I was part of this great organisation (I think I called it 'The Children of Alphamus Prime') where we believed we were all the children of aliens and that by acknowledging our true heritage would mean we would be chosen to return to the home world (I promise this was NOT inspired by any currentcult religion...).
Anyway, they became somewhat unsettled by my rantings about aliens and space, especially when I tried to "recruit" them into the organisation.
They pretty much hurried off, ignoring the other houses on the street.
But I could never do this to the Jehovah's Witnesses.
I keep telling myself that one of these days I'll open the door, tell them I'm not interested but try to talk about something else. Sport or movies orhell heck, even the weather. But I never do. Because I'm a wuss.
If it's a hot, sunny day I could always invite them in for a cold drink. Praise them for what they are doing even if I'm not one of their target audiences (I mean who in this world still is able to be swayed by a door-to-door religious person?). But I don't, because I'm a wuss.
Part of me is curious to know if someone does invite them in how they would react. Would they be put off because it rarely happens (that first episode of Black Books springs to mind) or they be happy someone actually cared?
So there it is.
In a world where disease and war and famine and horrible, horrible things happen, there's still some people out there who mean us no harm.
And I can't even bring myself to open the door for them.
I have two options. Open the door and greet them, or cower and hide. I choose the latter every time, as do most people in this situation. But why?
These men pose no threat, other than a mere inconvenience, and yet I treat them as though they were highly contagious. But who is to blame in this situation. Them or me?
Let's look at the Jehovah's Witnesses first.
First of all there are always two of them and they are always well dressed, normally in a white shirt and black tie and trousers. Often they carry a satchel or briefcase containing various bits of literature on Jesus and God. In other words, you can normally spot one coming from a distance, which is nice as it's kinda like a messenger announcing his presence in a castle.
When at your door they only ring once, or knock the appropriate amount of times (three?) and never hang about for longer than a minute, even if they know someone is inside the house. They might leave you a leaflet through the door, but it's small and easily disposed of.
They are always polite, which in this day and age is a very rare trait to find in a person, however once they start talking they do seem hard to stop (if only because you feel rude trying to interrupt them). But tell them you aren't interested and they thank you for your time and leave.
And then it's over.
Now consider a chugger, or other unwanted door person.
Normally they are dressed in rags (if asking for contribution to something) or over-dressed if looking for (political) support. Others dress like the rest of us, luring us into that false sense of security to open the door in the event that it might be something worthwhile.
They will hang around your door for a while, especially if they know someone is in, often guilt-tripping the house-owner to answer the door just for hanging around for so long. If by chance you resist opening the door you are instead greeted by the sound of a thousand dead trees hitting your door mat - leaflets and booklets about every minor detail that you purposely avoided trying to find out about.
Now the people themselves aren't exactly rude but they always go off on some little tale on how something happened and how they are the only ones who can fix it (or how you can, if they want money). By this point you can look like a complete bastard and refuse or give in and let them take your dignity.
In short, it's not a pleasant experience.
So between the two, the one you would most hope for would be a Jehovah's Witness right? Right?
Wrong?
Why? Because I feel so damn bad turning them down.
They have done absolutely nothing to offend me. All they want is to try to talk about the thing they are most passionate about (like I would tell my friends about a great game of golf I just had) and my response is to tell them "Not interested" and close the door in their face.
It's not like they are standing on the street corners shouting passages from the bible. They aren't strapping explosives to their bodies, killing innocents in the hope of getting laid in heaven. They are just knocking on my door hoping to have a chat. And I won't let them.
I'm not exactly anti-social, and I certainly don't mind telling people to sod off, but for some reason I just can't bring myself to doing it to these people.
Part of what scares me I guess is that they are willing to go door-to-door in the first place, willing to subject themselves to the sneers and jibes of the arseholes they try to talk to.
I couldn't go door-to-door, not in a million years. I'm just not that brave. And the fact there are people who are that brave, in this day and age, scares me.
I had another experience a few years back where some other people knocked on my door (an old couple, in plain clothes, the bastards) and I opened it like a chump. They were peddling some religion (I can't remember which) but the audacity with which they were trying to shove it down my throat prompted me in having some fun of my own.
I'm not exactly proud of this (a lie, I am), but I pretended I was part of this great organisation (I think I called it 'The Children of Alphamus Prime') where we believed we were all the children of aliens and that by acknowledging our true heritage would mean we would be chosen to return to the home world (I promise this was NOT inspired by any current
Anyway, they became somewhat unsettled by my rantings about aliens and space, especially when I tried to "recruit" them into the organisation.
They pretty much hurried off, ignoring the other houses on the street.
But I could never do this to the Jehovah's Witnesses.
I keep telling myself that one of these days I'll open the door, tell them I'm not interested but try to talk about something else. Sport or movies or
If it's a hot, sunny day I could always invite them in for a cold drink. Praise them for what they are doing even if I'm not one of their target audiences (I mean who in this world still is able to be swayed by a door-to-door religious person?). But I don't, because I'm a wuss.
Part of me is curious to know if someone does invite them in how they would react. Would they be put off because it rarely happens (that first episode of Black Books springs to mind) or they be happy someone actually cared?
So there it is.
In a world where disease and war and famine and horrible, horrible things happen, there's still some people out there who mean us no harm.
And I can't even bring myself to open the door for them.
Monday, 24 June 2013
Daily Happenings (24/06/13) - Evening Edition
Had a good day? Think again.
NHS or Tesco?
Doctors rebuke suggestions to make hospitals more customer friendly like Tesco did.
Hmm...Tesco actually care about their customers, but the NHS does not. Tesco doesn't kill people at the weekend, but the NHS makes you 44% more likely to die.
So it may not be a fair comparison but something needs to be done to curb these late-week fatalities.
Premium pays for weekend workings are out of the question and shifting labour across the full week will apparently make things worse at the beginning of the week. So what's the next step forward?
Give the doctors less pay. If they want to slack off for the weekend, that's fine by me. But why should I pay their salary.
Berlusconi Guilty
The law has finally told us exactly what we knew all along.
At least his global media empire didn't sway the outcome...yet.
I doubt he will actually get his sentenced jail time for this. Just another re-election.
Nelson Mandela Condition Critical
It's a sad state of affairs for such a respected individual, but we have to accept that all humans, even those responsible for saving millions, will die eventually.
There's not much else Mr Mandela can do with his life. It's up to others to carry on his good deeds and let him rest for once.
Carrey Does U-Turn of Opinions
Jim Carrey was always a big fan of the Kick-Ass movie, an ultra-violent superhero comedy and voiced his gratitude when he won a role in the sequel Now it seems he wishes he didn't due to the Sandy Hook shootings.
There's no doubt that the Kick-Ass movies are overtly violent (that was their main base of appeal), but why criticise a movie you voiced strong support for just because of a sudden burst of real world violence? Media relations perhaps?
I would go on to say it's because it happened in domestic America and not some city in the Middle-East but something tells me I probably shouldn't...not just yet.
'Lawrence' Smear Campaign Investigation
The Met should just apologise now, regarless whther the accusations are true or not.
They do an excellent job, don't get me wrong, but like most organisations out there, they have a lot of skeletons in the closet and they need to atone for them.
NHS or Tesco?
Doctors rebuke suggestions to make hospitals more customer friendly like Tesco did.
Hmm...Tesco actually care about their customers, but the NHS does not. Tesco doesn't kill people at the weekend, but the NHS makes you 44% more likely to die.
So it may not be a fair comparison but something needs to be done to curb these late-week fatalities.
Premium pays for weekend workings are out of the question and shifting labour across the full week will apparently make things worse at the beginning of the week. So what's the next step forward?
Give the doctors less pay. If they want to slack off for the weekend, that's fine by me. But why should I pay their salary.
Berlusconi Guilty
The law has finally told us exactly what we knew all along.
At least his global media empire didn't sway the outcome...yet.
I doubt he will actually get his sentenced jail time for this. Just another re-election.
Nelson Mandela Condition Critical
It's a sad state of affairs for such a respected individual, but we have to accept that all humans, even those responsible for saving millions, will die eventually.
There's not much else Mr Mandela can do with his life. It's up to others to carry on his good deeds and let him rest for once.
Carrey Does U-Turn of Opinions
Jim Carrey was always a big fan of the Kick-Ass movie, an ultra-violent superhero comedy and voiced his gratitude when he won a role in the sequel Now it seems he wishes he didn't due to the Sandy Hook shootings.
There's no doubt that the Kick-Ass movies are overtly violent (that was their main base of appeal), but why criticise a movie you voiced strong support for just because of a sudden burst of real world violence? Media relations perhaps?
I would go on to say it's because it happened in domestic America and not some city in the Middle-East but something tells me I probably shouldn't...not just yet.
'Lawrence' Smear Campaign Investigation
The Met should just apologise now, regarless whther the accusations are true or not.
They do an excellent job, don't get me wrong, but like most organisations out there, they have a lot of skeletons in the closet and they need to atone for them.
Wednesday, 19 June 2013
Daily Happenings (19/06/13)
A slight absence from posts..holidays and whatnot...the world may be turning to shit but it doesn't mean I can't at least try to enjoy what little there is left to enjoy.
Anyway, the latest...
Banking Reforms?
It finally seems as though the system has caught up, with reckless bankers to be rewarded witha luxury hotel room a prison cell rather than a million pound bonus.
Hospital Cover-Up
To be more precise, for there are a lot of NHS cover-ups these days, this is related to the deaths surrounding mothers and babies.
I'm glad we have the NHS, make no doubt about it. We don't have the fascist regime that America suffers from. Instead, we have a corrupt government run organisation that takes as much money from the tax payers as possible, with very little returning to the patients. I myself opt for private care after going to numerous NHS GP's and finding they did not seem interested in what was wrong with me but instead guessed to what my symptoms could be.
As far as the cover-up goes, people everywhere in the UK are being screwed by their local health care organisations but no one is speaking out against it. About 80% of people are doing their jobs in the NHS but it's up to the public to wrangle out that 20% who don't care whether you survive or not.
Radioactive Material Found Near Fukishima Plant
Bad news for Japanese locals but equally bad news for nuclear power in general.
The sudden panic over the safety of nuclear power was blown completely out of proportion (I'm blaming the oil companies) because of one incident which, severe as it was, was due to poor safety checks.
Nuclear power is one of the most reliable ways of sustaining power for the future and it is currently in complete jeopardy due to public fears over the Fukishima incident, fears that are going to be elevated now due to current findings.
TV License Fees Used as Pay-Off
After all the fuss the BBC make over ensuring we pay our licenses, we can now see why. It's apparently so they can pay off their staff so they don't report the nasty stuff happening within the walls of the studio.
To be fair I'm more annoyed at the employees who allowed themselves to be bought off. They obviously didn't care about the morally just course of action to take the money but if they shipped out their story to another studio they could probably make three times the amount the BBC offered them.
YouTube Claims Rihanna is Bigger Than Bieber
And no one cares.
Oh wait, sorry. That's me living in an ideal world.
Unfortunately 85% of this culturally obsessed world of idiots care. On the plus side, at least Rihanna has some form of talent.
Anyway, the latest...
Banking Reforms?
It finally seems as though the system has caught up, with reckless bankers to be rewarded with
Hospital Cover-Up
To be more precise, for there are a lot of NHS cover-ups these days, this is related to the deaths surrounding mothers and babies.
I'm glad we have the NHS, make no doubt about it. We don't have the fascist regime that America suffers from. Instead, we have a corrupt government run organisation that takes as much money from the tax payers as possible, with very little returning to the patients. I myself opt for private care after going to numerous NHS GP's and finding they did not seem interested in what was wrong with me but instead guessed to what my symptoms could be.
As far as the cover-up goes, people everywhere in the UK are being screwed by their local health care organisations but no one is speaking out against it. About 80% of people are doing their jobs in the NHS but it's up to the public to wrangle out that 20% who don't care whether you survive or not.
Radioactive Material Found Near Fukishima Plant
Bad news for Japanese locals but equally bad news for nuclear power in general.
The sudden panic over the safety of nuclear power was blown completely out of proportion (I'm blaming the oil companies) because of one incident which, severe as it was, was due to poor safety checks.
Nuclear power is one of the most reliable ways of sustaining power for the future and it is currently in complete jeopardy due to public fears over the Fukishima incident, fears that are going to be elevated now due to current findings.
TV License Fees Used as Pay-Off
After all the fuss the BBC make over ensuring we pay our licenses, we can now see why. It's apparently so they can pay off their staff so they don't report the nasty stuff happening within the walls of the studio.
To be fair I'm more annoyed at the employees who allowed themselves to be bought off. They obviously didn't care about the morally just course of action to take the money but if they shipped out their story to another studio they could probably make three times the amount the BBC offered them.
YouTube Claims Rihanna is Bigger Than Bieber
And no one cares.
Oh wait, sorry. That's me living in an ideal world.
Unfortunately 85% of this culturally obsessed world of idiots care. On the plus side, at least Rihanna has some form of talent.
Tuesday, 4 June 2013
Daily Happenings (04/06/13)
It looks to be another sunny day. Shame the news is always so gloomy then.
Wealthiest Britons Hit by Reccession
Erm...good?
I'm sorry to those of you who actually put in a lot of effort to get your high salaries, but welcome to the real England. Feel free to enjoy the budgeted family meals and cheap holiday deals.
It's about time the recession worked its way up. After all, how can we expect any real improvements to be made when the people who caused the bloody thing haven't been affected yet.
Eat Less Meat, Save the World
Holy crap, looks like the veggies were right.
New finding suggest that by cutting down on meat for just a couple of days a week it could help relief the pressure on the international food market, helping bring down the prices of staple foods (used as animal feed) as well as stop deforestation, help developing countries etc. Going veggie really seems to be the way forward.
Or not. I like my meat.
There's nothing more satisfying than a 12oz piece of steak, cooked rare with a hot pepper sauce.
But if all it takes is just two meat-free days to save the world, I think that's a fair compromise.
Cash Incentives for Militant Info
The US is offering a potentially huge sum of cash for any information regarding militant activity in Africa. It's a nice incentive but is it the right move?
People are already saying it will attract the likes of mercenaries and bounty hunters but maybe that's not such a bad thing. These are people who don't care if they die or not, therefore it saves soldiers lives (I know they also know what they are getting into, but in most cases they end up in conflicts that should have been avoided to begin with).
The obvious downside is hired work tend to follow their own rules, so there's no telling who would get harmed in the process of them reaching their goal.
Mixed views on this one.
Apple and the e-book Lawsuit
I like how everyone else admitted what they had done but here's Apple proving that they are still tainted of any wrongdoing.
They have pretty much enough money to take on every major government right now, so I'm guessing they are just going to go forward and throw as much money at the system until the other side run out. It's one way to absolve you of any crime.
Cameron Pledges to Target Islamic Extremists
No. Wrong. Don't even try it.
The conundrum that is free speech prevents this from ever being a good idea, as the affected party will always end up in the favour of the public.
I'm not saying we shouldn't do something about it, because we definitely should, but a new approach needs to be taken. There will always be a source but if you take away the ears it falls on then you know longer have any problems. Much like with BNP/EDL/other racist organisations. You just end up a mad-man preaching hate.
Wetherspoon's to Open Motorway Pub
Is it just me or does this just not make any sense?
Wealthiest Britons Hit by Reccession
Erm...good?
I'm sorry to those of you who actually put in a lot of effort to get your high salaries, but welcome to the real England. Feel free to enjoy the budgeted family meals and cheap holiday deals.
It's about time the recession worked its way up. After all, how can we expect any real improvements to be made when the people who caused the bloody thing haven't been affected yet.
Eat Less Meat, Save the World
Holy crap, looks like the veggies were right.
New finding suggest that by cutting down on meat for just a couple of days a week it could help relief the pressure on the international food market, helping bring down the prices of staple foods (used as animal feed) as well as stop deforestation, help developing countries etc. Going veggie really seems to be the way forward.
Or not. I like my meat.
There's nothing more satisfying than a 12oz piece of steak, cooked rare with a hot pepper sauce.
But if all it takes is just two meat-free days to save the world, I think that's a fair compromise.
Cash Incentives for Militant Info
The US is offering a potentially huge sum of cash for any information regarding militant activity in Africa. It's a nice incentive but is it the right move?
People are already saying it will attract the likes of mercenaries and bounty hunters but maybe that's not such a bad thing. These are people who don't care if they die or not, therefore it saves soldiers lives (I know they also know what they are getting into, but in most cases they end up in conflicts that should have been avoided to begin with).
The obvious downside is hired work tend to follow their own rules, so there's no telling who would get harmed in the process of them reaching their goal.
Mixed views on this one.
Apple and the e-book Lawsuit
I like how everyone else admitted what they had done but here's Apple proving that they are still tainted of any wrongdoing.
They have pretty much enough money to take on every major government right now, so I'm guessing they are just going to go forward and throw as much money at the system until the other side run out. It's one way to absolve you of any crime.
Cameron Pledges to Target Islamic Extremists
No. Wrong. Don't even try it.
The conundrum that is free speech prevents this from ever being a good idea, as the affected party will always end up in the favour of the public.
I'm not saying we shouldn't do something about it, because we definitely should, but a new approach needs to be taken. There will always be a source but if you take away the ears it falls on then you know longer have any problems. Much like with BNP/EDL/other racist organisations. You just end up a mad-man preaching hate.
Wetherspoon's to Open Motorway Pub
Is it just me or does this just not make any sense?
Monday, 3 June 2013
The Sponsored Underground
"This is Bank. The next station is Liverpool Street, brought to you by McDonald's."
Doesn't quite have the same ring to it...
The Tories have mentioned plans to look at the idea of allowing big name companies to sponsor London Tube Stations, going as far to even allow them to rename the station if they cough up enough change.
Before we delve into why this proposal is evil reincarnate, the possibilities of such a deal aren't too bad, with enough money generated to 'fix' travel rates (not bad seeing as how expensive travel in London already is) and more money can be spent in refurbishment, so the next time you go to Paris or Barcelona, you won't feel so jealous.
Sure travel will get a lot more confusing, especially if the names change, but if it's cheaper I can't see too many people caring.
Now for the evil bit. Ready?
This is capitalism and consumerism gone entirely wrong.
If we allow companies to sponsor the Underground then where does it stop?
Buildings will be next, councils and Burroughs, towns and cities. Hell, if we're not careful England will literally be wiped off the map, replaced with a harsh fonted Murdoctopia. (Scotland's already doing it's best to avoid Trumptown).
Surely we haven't reached the stage where there isn't enough money getting put into the system to have to avoid resorting to product placement and advertising?
Are you saying that the £25 I spent to travel to London for the day, more than the cost of why I went to London in the first place, isn't enough?
Bullshit.
If you hadn't spent all my money on a diamond toilet seat or a new house for you third mistress, we probably wouldn't have this situation.
If you'd spent all the money given to you wisely the stations wouldn't be in such disrepair.
If you really wanted to look after you loyal citizens we wouldn't have to pay so much to travel in the first place.
Advertising is one of those annoying evils that are necessary in the world. They help bring money to the companies that employ the rest of us, giving us barely enough money to keep ourselves moving onto the next day so we can make the corporate fat-cats even richer.
No thank-you. Find a better alternative.
Doesn't quite have the same ring to it...
The Tories have mentioned plans to look at the idea of allowing big name companies to sponsor London Tube Stations, going as far to even allow them to rename the station if they cough up enough change.
Before we delve into why this proposal is evil reincarnate, the possibilities of such a deal aren't too bad, with enough money generated to 'fix' travel rates (not bad seeing as how expensive travel in London already is) and more money can be spent in refurbishment, so the next time you go to Paris or Barcelona, you won't feel so jealous.
Sure travel will get a lot more confusing, especially if the names change, but if it's cheaper I can't see too many people caring.
Now for the evil bit. Ready?
This is capitalism and consumerism gone entirely wrong.
If we allow companies to sponsor the Underground then where does it stop?
Buildings will be next, councils and Burroughs, towns and cities. Hell, if we're not careful England will literally be wiped off the map, replaced with a harsh fonted Murdoctopia. (Scotland's already doing it's best to avoid Trumptown).
Surely we haven't reached the stage where there isn't enough money getting put into the system to have to avoid resorting to product placement and advertising?
Are you saying that the £25 I spent to travel to London for the day, more than the cost of why I went to London in the first place, isn't enough?
Bullshit.
If you hadn't spent all my money on a diamond toilet seat or a new house for you third mistress, we probably wouldn't have this situation.
If you'd spent all the money given to you wisely the stations wouldn't be in such disrepair.
If you really wanted to look after you loyal citizens we wouldn't have to pay so much to travel in the first place.
Advertising is one of those annoying evils that are necessary in the world. They help bring money to the companies that employ the rest of us, giving us barely enough money to keep ourselves moving onto the next day so we can make the corporate fat-cats even richer.
No thank-you. Find a better alternative.
Daily Happenings (03/06/13)
What fresh slew of hell hath the world brought upon us this day?
Cat Gets Movie Deal
This is news? Seriously?
The online sensation Grumpy Cat (I say sensation for all those bored and lonely nitwits who find solace in those pointlessly ridiculous cat photos) is getting a movie. Because everybody wants to see a movie about a Grumpy Cat who you can already watch online for free.
Oh, and the movie is being tooted as 'by the same guys who brought you Jack and Jill'.
Something tells me the film will bomb so hard that even the cat's nine lives won't be enough to save it.
Then again, look at the world we live in. It will probably overtake Avatar as the top grossing movie ever.
Game Tech Pioneer Killed
There's been a fair slew of murders and deaths lately but this tragic event also showcases something that is often left out of the media.
Police Car Chases are dangerous and can cause severe injury, especially as the suspect driver(s) often have nothing left to lose and are therefore stressed and reckless. In this case, a fleeing gang member drove into a crowded street and struck an innocent bystander, Oculous Rift Developer Andrew Reisse.
It's always shocking that we can never be safe, even in public.
More Police Staff Compensations
Another staff member has claimed compensation to the tune of £8000 because they were too dumb to look where they were walking and tripped over a pile of paper.
You'd have thought getting a job in the police would entitle you to being more observant but this is just a sad case of people wanting to make easy money. I'm not criticising compensation claims, as they can be pretty serious, but this just takes the piss.
No wonder the police force is making all the cuts.
A Political Affair
The news of a high profile affair within government is slowly making it's rounds, with forecasts stating that it could be a death blow to the coalition.
Seriously? An extramarital affair is the reason to bring down a government?
I'm not saying it's right to have an affair but in this day and age almost 1 in 5 people have affairs, so if you were to humiliate and discredit anyone who was ever involved in one chances are there'd be very few people running the country.
The affair hasn't harmed the public in any way. They haven't siphoned of millions of pounds to fund their romance. Why should we care? Oh yes, because we always have to bitch about every little detail that isn't perfect.
Radical Converted in Prison
Here's no surprise. Prison actually didn't help someone reform.
A man admits to plotting to assassinate Prince Harry, claiming he was converted while in prison.
The prison system needs a dramatic overhaul. We can't just keep shoving people in hoping they emerge a better person, because they won't (unless you count them emerging as a better criminal).
Fire at Chinese Poultry Farm
It's a sad story, especially for the people who tragically perished, however China is notorious for its poor safety standards. Hopefully the outcome will be a tightening of safety laws across the country.
House of Lords Debate Gay Marriage
The bill is in the House of Lords. It's so great that this segment of government made up by the richest and most privileged men exist in the UK. Their sole purpose? To block anything that may change England for the better.
There is talk about pressure being put on the Lords (especially the Bishops) to abstain from the vote. I'm all for gay marriage but they have the right to be complete backwards arseholes and say no. It might be a set back for the gay community but at least we'll get an indication of how many of Britain's most privileged are homophobic.
Age of Retirement Could Be 70
So you will literally be working until the day you die.
It's all down to how much you save and how early you start.
Isn't life just great.
Prince William Reminds Public of the Importance of Learning to Swim
He also unintentionally reminds us that humans are one of the few species who need to actually learn how to swim.
More Jolie Support
You'd have thought Jolie was the only woman who'd ever had a double masectomy in the first place with all the media attention she's getting.
I hope she's actually doing some good to the cause for breast cancer because to me it just seems like she's prancing around in front of the cameras looking good while the rest of the world forget that there are people actually dying of the disease.
Catholic Churches too Modern
According to the vatican anyway.
For a religion that is seeing large numbers of people leaving, they don't seem to have their priorities right.
I agree that it's all about the symbolism but in all fairness, if I was to stand around for one hour listening to how my life is a sin and how I should repent, I'd much rather do it in an architecturally impressive room than a cold, dingy stone building.
Cat Gets Movie Deal
This is news? Seriously?
The online sensation Grumpy Cat (I say sensation for all those bored and lonely nitwits who find solace in those pointlessly ridiculous cat photos) is getting a movie. Because everybody wants to see a movie about a Grumpy Cat who you can already watch online for free.
Oh, and the movie is being tooted as 'by the same guys who brought you Jack and Jill'.
Something tells me the film will bomb so hard that even the cat's nine lives won't be enough to save it.
Then again, look at the world we live in. It will probably overtake Avatar as the top grossing movie ever.
Game Tech Pioneer Killed
There's been a fair slew of murders and deaths lately but this tragic event also showcases something that is often left out of the media.
Police Car Chases are dangerous and can cause severe injury, especially as the suspect driver(s) often have nothing left to lose and are therefore stressed and reckless. In this case, a fleeing gang member drove into a crowded street and struck an innocent bystander, Oculous Rift Developer Andrew Reisse.
It's always shocking that we can never be safe, even in public.
More Police Staff Compensations
Another staff member has claimed compensation to the tune of £8000 because they were too dumb to look where they were walking and tripped over a pile of paper.
You'd have thought getting a job in the police would entitle you to being more observant but this is just a sad case of people wanting to make easy money. I'm not criticising compensation claims, as they can be pretty serious, but this just takes the piss.
No wonder the police force is making all the cuts.
A Political Affair
The news of a high profile affair within government is slowly making it's rounds, with forecasts stating that it could be a death blow to the coalition.
Seriously? An extramarital affair is the reason to bring down a government?
I'm not saying it's right to have an affair but in this day and age almost 1 in 5 people have affairs, so if you were to humiliate and discredit anyone who was ever involved in one chances are there'd be very few people running the country.
The affair hasn't harmed the public in any way. They haven't siphoned of millions of pounds to fund their romance. Why should we care? Oh yes, because we always have to bitch about every little detail that isn't perfect.
Radical Converted in Prison
Here's no surprise. Prison actually didn't help someone reform.
A man admits to plotting to assassinate Prince Harry, claiming he was converted while in prison.
The prison system needs a dramatic overhaul. We can't just keep shoving people in hoping they emerge a better person, because they won't (unless you count them emerging as a better criminal).
Fire at Chinese Poultry Farm
It's a sad story, especially for the people who tragically perished, however China is notorious for its poor safety standards. Hopefully the outcome will be a tightening of safety laws across the country.
House of Lords Debate Gay Marriage
The bill is in the House of Lords. It's so great that this segment of government made up by the richest and most privileged men exist in the UK. Their sole purpose? To block anything that may change England for the better.
There is talk about pressure being put on the Lords (especially the Bishops) to abstain from the vote. I'm all for gay marriage but they have the right to be complete backwards arseholes and say no. It might be a set back for the gay community but at least we'll get an indication of how many of Britain's most privileged are homophobic.
Age of Retirement Could Be 70
So you will literally be working until the day you die.
It's all down to how much you save and how early you start.
Isn't life just great.
Prince William Reminds Public of the Importance of Learning to Swim
He also unintentionally reminds us that humans are one of the few species who need to actually learn how to swim.
More Jolie Support
You'd have thought Jolie was the only woman who'd ever had a double masectomy in the first place with all the media attention she's getting.
I hope she's actually doing some good to the cause for breast cancer because to me it just seems like she's prancing around in front of the cameras looking good while the rest of the world forget that there are people actually dying of the disease.
Catholic Churches too Modern
According to the vatican anyway.
For a religion that is seeing large numbers of people leaving, they don't seem to have their priorities right.
I agree that it's all about the symbolism but in all fairness, if I was to stand around for one hour listening to how my life is a sin and how I should repent, I'd much rather do it in an architecturally impressive room than a cold, dingy stone building.
Thursday, 30 May 2013
Daily Happenings (30/05/13)
Another quiet-ish day.
Mark Bridger Convicted
Though it isn't surprising in the least, Mark Bridger has been charged with the murder of April. Why is this such a big deal? Because everywhere you look there's an in-depth biography into the life of this man. Evrything a similar monster would need to draw inspiration from.
This is a point I will raise over and over again, but the less we know about murderers and their history, the less chance there is of people following in their footsteps, inspired or not.
The media knows what gets people ticking, hence it decides to go to lengths to bring you as much knowledge about murderers and sadists as possible, even knowing that somewhere out there there ar people with similar tendencies who just need that little push to become monsters of their own.
I'm glad the conviction went through, but the less we know about the man the better.
Spelling Errors Provoke (and Thwart) Make-Shift Bomb Attack
No one likes bad grammar. Probably why no one likes the young people of today. One man however, so riled up by a misspelt sign on a local teaching license authority, decided to make a bomb to correct the sign once and for all.
The outcome? The bomb didn't work because the instructions for the pressurised cooker he was using were also apparently riddled with errors. Police later reported that the bomb was harmless.
A step too far? Perhaps. But the man had every right to be upset. He just failed to undertake the proper steps to getting the problem solved.
Mark Bridger Convicted
Though it isn't surprising in the least, Mark Bridger has been charged with the murder of April. Why is this such a big deal? Because everywhere you look there's an in-depth biography into the life of this man. Evrything a similar monster would need to draw inspiration from.
This is a point I will raise over and over again, but the less we know about murderers and their history, the less chance there is of people following in their footsteps, inspired or not.
The media knows what gets people ticking, hence it decides to go to lengths to bring you as much knowledge about murderers and sadists as possible, even knowing that somewhere out there there ar people with similar tendencies who just need that little push to become monsters of their own.
I'm glad the conviction went through, but the less we know about the man the better.
Spelling Errors Provoke (and Thwart) Make-Shift Bomb Attack
No one likes bad grammar. Probably why no one likes the young people of today. One man however, so riled up by a misspelt sign on a local teaching license authority, decided to make a bomb to correct the sign once and for all.
The outcome? The bomb didn't work because the instructions for the pressurised cooker he was using were also apparently riddled with errors. Police later reported that the bomb was harmless.
A step too far? Perhaps. But the man had every right to be upset. He just failed to undertake the proper steps to getting the problem solved.
Wednesday, 29 May 2013
Daily Happenings (29/05/13) - Evening Edition
Slightly later than usual, but there's not too much to criticise about today. Perhaps that's a good thing...
Two US Officials Shot At
Not the most positive attitude to take, but I hope to God they are married. It's a shock that they were the target of an attack and I wish them a speedy recovery, but the idea of your spouse finding out about your 'extramarital' duties on account of a botched hit seems like something out of a movie.
Hollyoaks Actor Attacked
I couldn't care any less about TV soap dramas. They're poorly written, reuse the same ideas over and over again and they make their characters far too cliché or exaggerated in attempts to make people believ in them. And people do. Because people are idiots.
Saying that, it's a shame that you can't lead a normal life on account of this "fame". Even ignoring fans is likely to get you in trouble, as with what happened with Thomas Scurr.
Get a life people. Just because you met someone who may be considered somewhat famous doesn't mean everything is going to turn out alright in your life from now on.
Beating up a guy because he ignores you is like a child throwing a hissy fit.
Lack of Foreign Students Due to New Visa Controls
This surprised me. I don't want to come off as racist but last time I went round a University, the number of locally bound students were heavily outweighed by the foreign ones. I understand why people want to study in the UK (barring the weather of course) however I'm sure there was a significant problem not too long ago for UK based students who found trouble getting accepted into Universities.
Besides, these new visa controls were not to keep people out but rather to ensure they didn't overstay their welcome (again, not racist, but if your visa expires just apply for a new one or get a citizenship).
I wonder if the fall in students isn't to do with the knowledge that they will no longer be able to have extended stays.
IKEA 'Gnomes' Frightening
In what is perhaps the most shocking use of public dissatisfaction, IKEA have found themselves on the wrong end due to a fantastically made advert that apparently was tasteless and scary.
The advert in question seems to advertise (I say seem as it wasn't too clear...perhaps IKEA did spend too much on Gnome killing than actual advertising) the new Summer range, with the garden Gnomes unhappy about the new furniture and thus they wage war.
It's ridiculously tongue-in-cheek but it's clearly not serious. Had the Gnomes been made more menacing I would have understood the outcry (perhaps a-la Gremlins) but no, they are just...Gnomes. Annoying Gnomes. If anything, the advert has probably been made more popular.
Luckily, the ASA has thrown out the case.
If you want to complain about something people, there's tons of stupid reality TV shows that are doing actual damage to the minds and intellects of the species.
Two US Officials Shot At
Not the most positive attitude to take, but I hope to God they are married. It's a shock that they were the target of an attack and I wish them a speedy recovery, but the idea of your spouse finding out about your 'extramarital' duties on account of a botched hit seems like something out of a movie.
Hollyoaks Actor Attacked
I couldn't care any less about TV soap dramas. They're poorly written, reuse the same ideas over and over again and they make their characters far too cliché or exaggerated in attempts to make people believ in them. And people do. Because people are idiots.
Saying that, it's a shame that you can't lead a normal life on account of this "fame". Even ignoring fans is likely to get you in trouble, as with what happened with Thomas Scurr.
Get a life people. Just because you met someone who may be considered somewhat famous doesn't mean everything is going to turn out alright in your life from now on.
Beating up a guy because he ignores you is like a child throwing a hissy fit.
Lack of Foreign Students Due to New Visa Controls
This surprised me. I don't want to come off as racist but last time I went round a University, the number of locally bound students were heavily outweighed by the foreign ones. I understand why people want to study in the UK (barring the weather of course) however I'm sure there was a significant problem not too long ago for UK based students who found trouble getting accepted into Universities.
Besides, these new visa controls were not to keep people out but rather to ensure they didn't overstay their welcome (again, not racist, but if your visa expires just apply for a new one or get a citizenship).
I wonder if the fall in students isn't to do with the knowledge that they will no longer be able to have extended stays.
IKEA 'Gnomes' Frightening
In what is perhaps the most shocking use of public dissatisfaction, IKEA have found themselves on the wrong end due to a fantastically made advert that apparently was tasteless and scary.
The advert in question seems to advertise (I say seem as it wasn't too clear...perhaps IKEA did spend too much on Gnome killing than actual advertising) the new Summer range, with the garden Gnomes unhappy about the new furniture and thus they wage war.
It's ridiculously tongue-in-cheek but it's clearly not serious. Had the Gnomes been made more menacing I would have understood the outcry (perhaps a-la Gremlins) but no, they are just...Gnomes. Annoying Gnomes. If anything, the advert has probably been made more popular.
Luckily, the ASA has thrown out the case.
If you want to complain about something people, there's tons of stupid reality TV shows that are doing actual damage to the minds and intellects of the species.
Tuesday, 28 May 2013
Syria
I've been wanting to comment on Syria but I can't seem to be able to come to a conclusion on what should be done.
I don't like the thought of other countries meddling with the balance of politics by helping overthrow governments. It just causes problems later down the line. After all, the majority of problems seem to stem from puppets who broke free from the puppeteers.
Every major revolution in history has happened because the country wanted the change bad enough that they made it happen. England, France Russia and America (actually they kinda had the entire world against us, but then America was multi-cultural to begin with) all successfully kicked out the oppressive governments without any outside help.
We should let Syria achieve its independence by itself.
At the same time, the longer we stay out of it, the more likely the use of chemical or civilian warfare will continue.
One of the major problems seems to be that while others were unanimous revolutions against the ruling authority, the conflict in Syria is an outright war due to not enough people backing either side but rather waiting until a winner emerges.
Russia was right to say that others should stay out of it (although they had a funny way of saying it by providing the government with state of the art killing machines) but at the same time we cannot stand back and watch as genocide is committed.
The fact Syria is still operating shows that support for either party is mixed. If people really were feeling oppressed they would all make a stand together. The government cannot rule if it has no people to rule over.
The whole issue annoys me greatly.
Innocents are being killed left and right but still people remain loyal to their government. If we intervene who's to say we picked the right side? (Although by this point the Syrian government has pretty much lost any respect from other countries, except for Russia who want to make the situation more complicated than it already is).
I don't like the thought of other countries meddling with the balance of politics by helping overthrow governments. It just causes problems later down the line. After all, the majority of problems seem to stem from puppets who broke free from the puppeteers.
Every major revolution in history has happened because the country wanted the change bad enough that they made it happen. England, France Russia and America (actually they kinda had the entire world against us, but then America was multi-cultural to begin with) all successfully kicked out the oppressive governments without any outside help.
We should let Syria achieve its independence by itself.
At the same time, the longer we stay out of it, the more likely the use of chemical or civilian warfare will continue.
One of the major problems seems to be that while others were unanimous revolutions against the ruling authority, the conflict in Syria is an outright war due to not enough people backing either side but rather waiting until a winner emerges.
Russia was right to say that others should stay out of it (although they had a funny way of saying it by providing the government with state of the art killing machines) but at the same time we cannot stand back and watch as genocide is committed.
The fact Syria is still operating shows that support for either party is mixed. If people really were feeling oppressed they would all make a stand together. The government cannot rule if it has no people to rule over.
The whole issue annoys me greatly.
Innocents are being killed left and right but still people remain loyal to their government. If we intervene who's to say we picked the right side? (Although by this point the Syrian government has pretty much lost any respect from other countries, except for Russia who want to make the situation more complicated than it already is).
Daily Happenings (28/5/13)
The current major headlines around the world.
Radioactive Belts Recalled
No word on how they became radioactive to begin with, but ASOS have recalled all shipments. Apparently some may remain.
I know people are looking for new ways to break fashion, and I guess a belt that has a 0.0001% chance of giving you superpowers is a nice way forward, but this is ridiculous.
I can see this story leading to finding out the belts were made in a sweatshop somewhere in the world, a sweatshop where all of the workers, paid pennies a day, will die from some major form of cancer, all because rich people want something pretty to keep their trousers up.
Legal Highs on the Rise
A drop in cannabis and cocaine use wasn't due to the billions wasted on making them illegal but more because people are getting smart and finding alternatives that are just as powerful and effective.
Still don't understand why drugs are illegal.
They can't be used for mass destruction (ie they are not a weapon) but yet the government insists on creating a blackmarket economy for violence and corruption just to keep the 85% of people who would never use drugs anyway (legal or not) happy. Seriously, all the countries of origin of the drugs are in complete anarchy because of warring gangs. Prohibition does not work. We need alternatives.
The day the government realises how to efficiently tax drugs, they will become legal (controlled, but legal). Mark my words.
Economists, it's up to you.
Australia the Happiest Nation in the World
Ironic when you consider its where Britain sent all its most notorious criminals.
Great country though. Ideal if you want to isolate yourself from the rest of the world. Probably why they are so happy.
More Homes and Less Fields
This is what happiness entails apparently.
More homes means more people in a town which means more need for shops on the high street. It also means more cheap homes.
I sense a fundamental flaw in this argument. Maybe it has to do with the fact they've been overbuilding homes for the last ten years and yet we've seen no change in the decline of the physical shop market. Only a decline in the green stuff. The stuff that keeps us and our valuable ecosystem alive.
Don't build new homes, claiming that people want cheap affordable homes. Redevelop existing eyesores. We're trying to slow the population growth, not increase it.
Keep our fields the way they are.
Courts to Go Private?
To save money apparently.
I smell corruption fears aplenty, but they insist the courts will by under a royal charter to prevent conflicts of interest. That's comforting to know. People promising they won't lie. Especially when they can risk losing millions of pounds.
In the future the David and Goliath story will end very differently.
Radioactive Belts Recalled
No word on how they became radioactive to begin with, but ASOS have recalled all shipments. Apparently some may remain.
I know people are looking for new ways to break fashion, and I guess a belt that has a 0.0001% chance of giving you superpowers is a nice way forward, but this is ridiculous.
I can see this story leading to finding out the belts were made in a sweatshop somewhere in the world, a sweatshop where all of the workers, paid pennies a day, will die from some major form of cancer, all because rich people want something pretty to keep their trousers up.
Legal Highs on the Rise
A drop in cannabis and cocaine use wasn't due to the billions wasted on making them illegal but more because people are getting smart and finding alternatives that are just as powerful and effective.
Still don't understand why drugs are illegal.
They can't be used for mass destruction (ie they are not a weapon) but yet the government insists on creating a blackmarket economy for violence and corruption just to keep the 85% of people who would never use drugs anyway (legal or not) happy. Seriously, all the countries of origin of the drugs are in complete anarchy because of warring gangs. Prohibition does not work. We need alternatives.
The day the government realises how to efficiently tax drugs, they will become legal (controlled, but legal). Mark my words.
Economists, it's up to you.
Australia the Happiest Nation in the World
Ironic when you consider its where Britain sent all its most notorious criminals.
Great country though. Ideal if you want to isolate yourself from the rest of the world. Probably why they are so happy.
More Homes and Less Fields
This is what happiness entails apparently.
More homes means more people in a town which means more need for shops on the high street. It also means more cheap homes.
I sense a fundamental flaw in this argument. Maybe it has to do with the fact they've been overbuilding homes for the last ten years and yet we've seen no change in the decline of the physical shop market. Only a decline in the green stuff. The stuff that keeps us and our valuable ecosystem alive.
Don't build new homes, claiming that people want cheap affordable homes. Redevelop existing eyesores. We're trying to slow the population growth, not increase it.
Keep our fields the way they are.
Courts to Go Private?
To save money apparently.
I smell corruption fears aplenty, but they insist the courts will by under a royal charter to prevent conflicts of interest. That's comforting to know. People promising they won't lie. Especially when they can risk losing millions of pounds.
In the future the David and Goliath story will end very differently.
Monday, 27 May 2013
Daily Happenings (27/05/13)
So what's new in the world today?
What fresh pile of manure is being served up to us for our daily digestion?
Angelina Jolie's Aunt Dies of Cancer
Cancer is always a touchy issue, but why should we care about her aunt dying of an illness that millions die from everyday? Where's the article about my grandfather who died from prostate cancer, or my friend who died from brain cancer? Or people I know who've lost loved ones to the disease? Oh, that's right, they weren't related to anyone famous therefore they technically don't exist.
On the plus side, that pretty much means that only one person died of cancer today. Hooray, looks like we're finally beating it.
Jolie made headlines because she underwent a procedure to minimise the risk of breast cancer, then preached about why everyone should follow her suit; a procedure that many doctors recommend you have anyway.
This celebrity obsessed world we live in will destroy us, just you wait.
Blue is the Warmest Colour wins the Palm d'Or
Hmm, a French film about a female homosexual couple wins the coveted Cannes Festival award and there's no backlash or protests? How can this be?
Maybe it has something to do with the 'intimate' scenes between the two leading ladies. I'm guessing protesters are taking time off to 'view' the film just to see how much it offends them.
(Seriously though, congratulations to director Abdellatif Kechiche.)
WoolwichMurder Atrocity
It's scary to think that so far all the media attention has been on the two sick SOB's responsible, with only one or two articles about the victim and his family. Congratulations guys, you've given the two sicko's exactly what they wanted. Fame.
You've also given all the other sicko's out there a cause to go do the same thing.
My condolences go out to the family of Lee Rigby.
Post Office Strike
Because the mail can't arrive any later than it already does.
Chinese Teenager Targeted Over Egypt Graffiti Incident
This is a tough one as I can see why there would be such an uproar about it, however I feel that the online community pushed it way too far for a crime which happened a long time ago. Sure the kid was a moron to deface such an old bit of rock and he should probably pay to restore it, but there's no reason you should completely ruin his life by posting his entire personal life online.
I feel the world is currently angry at China. This probably didn't help.
I wonder where this level of protest was when the Chilean government destroyed that ancient Mayan temple they had just unearthed just to make way for a road. (At least I think it was Chile.)
Ofcom to Be Considered Extra Powers
On the one hand, you limit the capacity for which radicalised ideas can be broadcast. It works as a short term solution thanks to the expanse of the internet.
On the other hand, you limit free speech, give the radicals the upper hand and you find yourself in a worse situation.
Personally, I don't see why people who make such a fuss over why a country is so terrible in the eyes of God should be allowed to reside in it. (It's not racist, it's just practical.)
A friend comes over to your home and criticises it for being inferior to his own, turning your own staff against you (pretend your rich and have staff), why should you invite him back?
Lady Gaga Gives "Sound" Business Advice
This made laugh.
She claims that the best business strategy is to take as many risks as possible. That's great, which company do you represent? You mean your a musician? Oh, sorry a singer, others write the music for you. You wear ridiculous outfits? Anyone can do that.
Imagine if Apple or Microsoft or NewsCorp did the first radical thing that popped into their heads. Shares would plummet instantly. (Though Rupert Murdoch in drag. That would make a good frontpage image...)
What fresh pile of manure is being served up to us for our daily digestion?
Angelina Jolie's Aunt Dies of Cancer
Cancer is always a touchy issue, but why should we care about her aunt dying of an illness that millions die from everyday? Where's the article about my grandfather who died from prostate cancer, or my friend who died from brain cancer? Or people I know who've lost loved ones to the disease? Oh, that's right, they weren't related to anyone famous therefore they technically don't exist.
On the plus side, that pretty much means that only one person died of cancer today. Hooray, looks like we're finally beating it.
Jolie made headlines because she underwent a procedure to minimise the risk of breast cancer, then preached about why everyone should follow her suit; a procedure that many doctors recommend you have anyway.
This celebrity obsessed world we live in will destroy us, just you wait.
Blue is the Warmest Colour wins the Palm d'Or
Hmm, a French film about a female homosexual couple wins the coveted Cannes Festival award and there's no backlash or protests? How can this be?
Maybe it has something to do with the 'intimate' scenes between the two leading ladies. I'm guessing protesters are taking time off to 'view' the film just to see how much it offends them.
(Seriously though, congratulations to director Abdellatif Kechiche.)
Woolwich
It's scary to think that so far all the media attention has been on the two sick SOB's responsible, with only one or two articles about the victim and his family. Congratulations guys, you've given the two sicko's exactly what they wanted. Fame.
You've also given all the other sicko's out there a cause to go do the same thing.
My condolences go out to the family of Lee Rigby.
Post Office Strike
Because the mail can't arrive any later than it already does.
Chinese Teenager Targeted Over Egypt Graffiti Incident
This is a tough one as I can see why there would be such an uproar about it, however I feel that the online community pushed it way too far for a crime which happened a long time ago. Sure the kid was a moron to deface such an old bit of rock and he should probably pay to restore it, but there's no reason you should completely ruin his life by posting his entire personal life online.
I feel the world is currently angry at China. This probably didn't help.
I wonder where this level of protest was when the Chilean government destroyed that ancient Mayan temple they had just unearthed just to make way for a road. (At least I think it was Chile.)
Ofcom to Be Considered Extra Powers
On the one hand, you limit the capacity for which radicalised ideas can be broadcast. It works as a short term solution thanks to the expanse of the internet.
On the other hand, you limit free speech, give the radicals the upper hand and you find yourself in a worse situation.
Personally, I don't see why people who make such a fuss over why a country is so terrible in the eyes of God should be allowed to reside in it. (It's not racist, it's just practical.)
A friend comes over to your home and criticises it for being inferior to his own, turning your own staff against you (pretend your rich and have staff), why should you invite him back?
Lady Gaga Gives "Sound" Business Advice
This made laugh.
She claims that the best business strategy is to take as many risks as possible. That's great, which company do you represent? You mean your a musician? Oh, sorry a singer, others write the music for you. You wear ridiculous outfits? Anyone can do that.
Imagine if Apple or Microsoft or NewsCorp did the first radical thing that popped into their heads. Shares would plummet instantly. (Though Rupert Murdoch in drag. That would make a good frontpage image...)
Sunday, 26 May 2013
The Not-So-Gay Paris
Today saw the highly unusual spectacle in Paris of a massive anti-gay marriage movement (actually I say unusual but then France is pretty notorious for strikes, and this is somewhat similar to a strike). Depending on who you listen to, the supporters numbered anything from hundreds of thousands to around a million. That's a pretty big number of people who don't want to see gay marriage come into effect (note this is gay marriage, not necessarily gay partnerships, though I'm sure homophobes were abound). I find this very sad, especially for a country that used to be at the forefront of romance.
Let's look at the gay marriage issue for a moment.
You already allow civil partnerships, so obviously you have no objection to homosexual people living with one another. Congratulations, there is some humanity in you after all.
But why mess up the need for two people who clearly love each other to solidify that bond? Who cares if they are the same gender, they still pay the same tax. They still drive the same cars and wear the same clothes.
Did you alter your public lifestyle when you got married? I didn't think so.
The only logical explaination I can think of that people would be so morally retarded to protest such an act is that they are unhappily married themselves and they are warning gay people that marriage isn't all it's cracked up to be.
This appears to not be the case.
People are citing that it will break down the core fundimentals of a family unit, namely the mother and father aspect.
Well I have news for you buddy. Mother and Father are just two words that happen to have been genderlised (it's not a real word) to fit a modern society. What really matters is that someone assumes a powerful role in a child's life to give them purpose and direction. The two words alone are nothing.
Jimmy gets straight A's at school and he's kind and helpful and a pleasure to be around, but look he has two dads, they must be corrupting him somehow(!)
I look at modern day children and weep. A bunch of morbidly obese bastards who have no real contribution to society. There's no way any gender combination of parent could make the situation any worse than it already is.
I'd wager that a homosexual couple (married or not) would raise a better child, not because they feel they have to, but because they just can.
Will the child be humiliated and bullied because he has gay parents? No, unless you make a fuss about gay partnerships to begin with. Children accept the world around them until they are told otherwise. All this anti-gay negativity is only making the problem worse.
But wait, it gets better. People are also against the idea because gay couples cannot pro-create. Oh no. Such a shame that there isn't a high number of orphaned children in the world, children who would be happy to receive a loving home. Children who are where they are because normal couples are too selfish to think about the current number of children in the world and decide they'd rather increase the population themselves with a hell-spawn of their own.
By this logic, this means that people who are married but for whatever reason cannot sire children by themselves, then they should be discriminated against. Jill and Derrieck have tried for months but Jill just found she is barren. Sorry Derrick, if you can't pro-create with your spouse, you'll just have to find another one. Forget about all those happy years you shared together, she's worthless in society apparently.
What angers me most about all this is that people are now blaming each other for voting in Hollande.
Yes, let's all criticise the man who is doing his best to stop your country from running into the dirt because some other asshole decided to play loose with your money. Let's all criticise him for doing the one humane thing your country has seen in a very long time. (I have French ancestry. This is not xenophobia.)
Grow the fuck up people. Go live in a cave if the thought of gay marriage infuriates you. You'll be doing the world a huge favour.
Let's look at the gay marriage issue for a moment.
You already allow civil partnerships, so obviously you have no objection to homosexual people living with one another. Congratulations, there is some humanity in you after all.
But why mess up the need for two people who clearly love each other to solidify that bond? Who cares if they are the same gender, they still pay the same tax. They still drive the same cars and wear the same clothes.
Did you alter your public lifestyle when you got married? I didn't think so.
The only logical explaination I can think of that people would be so morally retarded to protest such an act is that they are unhappily married themselves and they are warning gay people that marriage isn't all it's cracked up to be.
This appears to not be the case.
People are citing that it will break down the core fundimentals of a family unit, namely the mother and father aspect.
Well I have news for you buddy. Mother and Father are just two words that happen to have been genderlised (it's not a real word) to fit a modern society. What really matters is that someone assumes a powerful role in a child's life to give them purpose and direction. The two words alone are nothing.
Jimmy gets straight A's at school and he's kind and helpful and a pleasure to be around, but look he has two dads, they must be corrupting him somehow(!)
I look at modern day children and weep. A bunch of morbidly obese bastards who have no real contribution to society. There's no way any gender combination of parent could make the situation any worse than it already is.
I'd wager that a homosexual couple (married or not) would raise a better child, not because they feel they have to, but because they just can.
Will the child be humiliated and bullied because he has gay parents? No, unless you make a fuss about gay partnerships to begin with. Children accept the world around them until they are told otherwise. All this anti-gay negativity is only making the problem worse.
But wait, it gets better. People are also against the idea because gay couples cannot pro-create. Oh no. Such a shame that there isn't a high number of orphaned children in the world, children who would be happy to receive a loving home. Children who are where they are because normal couples are too selfish to think about the current number of children in the world and decide they'd rather increase the population themselves with a hell-spawn of their own.
By this logic, this means that people who are married but for whatever reason cannot sire children by themselves, then they should be discriminated against. Jill and Derrieck have tried for months but Jill just found she is barren. Sorry Derrick, if you can't pro-create with your spouse, you'll just have to find another one. Forget about all those happy years you shared together, she's worthless in society apparently.
What angers me most about all this is that people are now blaming each other for voting in Hollande.
Yes, let's all criticise the man who is doing his best to stop your country from running into the dirt because some other asshole decided to play loose with your money. Let's all criticise him for doing the one humane thing your country has seen in a very long time. (I have French ancestry. This is not xenophobia.)
Grow the fuck up people. Go live in a cave if the thought of gay marriage infuriates you. You'll be doing the world a huge favour.
Welcome, Your Happiness Ends Here
Life.
Marvellous isn't it? Over the span of billions of years, single celled organisms have evolved into different creatures, all great and small, each with their own DNA code, appearance, society - and then there's humans. Don't get me wrong, I think it's remarkable how far we've come since we were picking fleas out of each others backs (sorry creationists, but science is slightly more believable). We devised languages, built technology, created infrastructure and economies and all that jazz. Some would say that we are the perfect species. And they would be giant ignorant morans.
For all this talk about progressing forward (and sure we do, from a technological and intellectual point of view) but with every passing moment we lose part of our humanity in the process.
War, famine, over-development, greed - no other species on earth has ever had this problem. Why? Because humans are too ambitious, and it drives them crazy. It drives them to do things that sane people wouldn't even dream of. And how few of these sane people are left.
For every Gandhi there's a thousand armed troops taking aim at his followers. For every Mother Teresa there's a chemical exec greenlighting the dumping of toxic materials into a nearby lake. For every positive reaction there is an unequal negative reaction, outdoing any effects the positive one may have had (bet Newton never saw that one coming).
We live in increasingly dark times brought about because people have actually started to make changes for the better.
We want to limit air pollution. Well tough. The petrol companies need our money to fill their swimming pools.
We want to limit deforestation. Well tough, those logging execs also have pools.
We want equality for everyone. Can't. Some book written by a magician says it's wrong.
We want to stop illegal poaching and illegal mining. I'm sorry, those tusks are worth how much?
In short, the human race is doomed. Doomed to progress forward by taking steps back.
So why am I rambling on about the downfall of civilised society? Because I can. Free speech and all that. Free until some people who disagree with what I have said make a big enough fuss, in which case I will surely be executed for my views.
Welcome to The Gloom Report. Life will never be joyous again.
Marvellous isn't it? Over the span of billions of years, single celled organisms have evolved into different creatures, all great and small, each with their own DNA code, appearance, society - and then there's humans. Don't get me wrong, I think it's remarkable how far we've come since we were picking fleas out of each others backs (sorry creationists, but science is slightly more believable). We devised languages, built technology, created infrastructure and economies and all that jazz. Some would say that we are the perfect species. And they would be giant ignorant morans.
For all this talk about progressing forward (and sure we do, from a technological and intellectual point of view) but with every passing moment we lose part of our humanity in the process.
War, famine, over-development, greed - no other species on earth has ever had this problem. Why? Because humans are too ambitious, and it drives them crazy. It drives them to do things that sane people wouldn't even dream of. And how few of these sane people are left.
For every Gandhi there's a thousand armed troops taking aim at his followers. For every Mother Teresa there's a chemical exec greenlighting the dumping of toxic materials into a nearby lake. For every positive reaction there is an unequal negative reaction, outdoing any effects the positive one may have had (bet Newton never saw that one coming).
We live in increasingly dark times brought about because people have actually started to make changes for the better.
We want to limit air pollution. Well tough. The petrol companies need our money to fill their swimming pools.
We want to limit deforestation. Well tough, those logging execs also have pools.
We want equality for everyone. Can't. Some book written by a magician says it's wrong.
We want to stop illegal poaching and illegal mining. I'm sorry, those tusks are worth how much?
In short, the human race is doomed. Doomed to progress forward by taking steps back.
So why am I rambling on about the downfall of civilised society? Because I can. Free speech and all that. Free until some people who disagree with what I have said make a big enough fuss, in which case I will surely be executed for my views.
Welcome to The Gloom Report. Life will never be joyous again.
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