Stop the Insanity

David, Because your topic is one I'm interested in and think is of critical importance, I read your entire book.

While I don't agree with all of your ideas, I agree with many of them. Regardless, your book is sharp, well-reasoned, and well-executed. If all of your ideas were put in place, I have no doubt the USA would be in better shape than it is today.

Every American who is concerned about the dysfunctional mess we call a government should read this book. Highly starred. Congratulations on a fine job! Mark

“Stop the Insanity” is a clearly and cogently argued plea for the world’s largest democracy to start doing what a democracy is supposed to do, govern for and with the people. Its aspirations are firmly founded on discussions of relevant topics—taxation and spending, military engagement, a concern for an adequate social safety net, an end to the Cuban embargo—all of which efficiently summarize the major areas of engagement for a democratic government and provide simple guidelines for these areas to be appropriately dealt with. Underlying everything is a continuing plea for America to recognize the resources it already possesses and utilise them in view of clearly recognized long-term goals. A pithy explanation of America’s current situation and a way out.

David,
There is a human tendency to rationalize inaction, to hope for things to happen through natural progression rather than trying to force an issue, hence the long-winded arguments against change. But then again there is in all of us innate wisdom, intuitive response, gut reaction or even "conscience talking" when things don't square, something's off or doesn't feel right. Take the Oriental mind acutely conscious of these imbalances, distortions, energy blockages, turning to feng-shui, yingyang or holisitic healing, all because harmony is paramount to our existence. But that's digressing, let's focus closer to home.

Stepping back and looking at the big picture, namely the U.S.A. at half-mast, beset by ailments and somewhat lost, one can only conclude that your book makes absolute sense. Never mind the dissenters who look for reasons why certain points you raise won't gell. The intent of your book is to find ways to make things work. You identify problems in basic, simple terms and point out solutions in laymen's language we all understand. In this spirit, with the momerntum going, we should all participate, add our voices to the clamor because in so doing, at the end of the day, when all is said and done, WE WILL DO THE RIGHT THING.

Yes, bailing out homeowners and not banks is correct; yes, bringing the armed forces home is correct; yes, building factories here and not offshore is correct; yes, cutting the cost of higher education by utilizing the internet is correct; yes, encouraging democracy in Cuba by dropping the boycott is correct; yes, making the post office affordable by cutting delivery tiime is correct; yes, helping the American poor first before helping others is correct. It's common sense. Difficult or not, we gotta do what we gotta do.

Although, instead of caning, may I suggest hard labor for criminals? Enabling them to repay their debt to society by earning merit points based on attitude and productivity, demonstrating a desire to rejoin civilization?

Sincerely,

Kenneth Edward Lim
"The North Korean"

Definitely my kind of book, punchy, vibrant, and often critical, scathing and irreverent of the US government system. I have a whole raft of these anti-establishment diatribes which have arrived over the past 10 to 15 years, hot on the back of the Clinton administration in the US and the Blair government in England. David Welch maintains the tradition of near to satirical critique, and rips into the short-comings the entire Capitol Hill and federal governments failings to deal with the US structural deficit and swallow the reality pill when it comes to fanciful social programmes. Whether you agree or disagree with David's standpoint on these axiomatic national and international issues, there is no mistaking that the read is very enjoyable, stimulating and sparky. The title is intentionally contentious, but serves to illustrate the passion with which David analyses government policy and its effects on the US electorate, and the world at large. 5 stars and WL'ed. Will be a bookshelf contender when complete.

Clive Radford
Doghouse Blues

Definitely my kind of book, punchy, vibrant, and often critical, scathing and irreverent of the US government system. I have a whole raft of these anti-establishment diatribes which have arrived over the past 10 to 15 years, hot on the back of the Clinton administration in the US and the Blair government in England. David Welch maintains the tradition of near to satirical critique, and rips into the short-comings the entire Capitol Hill and federal governments failings to deal with the US structural deficit and swallow the reality pill when it comes to fanciful social programmes. Whether you agree or disagree with David's standpoint on these axiomatic national and international issues, there is no mistaking that the read is very enjoyable, stimulating and sparky. The title is intentionally contentious, but serves to illustrate the passion with which David analyses government policy and its effects on the US electorate, and the world at large. 5 stars and WL'ed. Will be a bookshelf contender when complete.

Clive Radford
Doghouse Blues

Para starting, "More importantly, I believe that if the book..." I think "alternatIVE solutions" would be the better choice.
Have you considered pushing this book to talk-show hosts? I'm thinking specifically of Glenn Beck who is NOT a Republican, but rather a "back to the constitution" Libertarian.

David This would normally be way over my head, but I actually enjoyed it and managed to stay with it. I think it is due to the flow of your story and the mix between your ability to describe well. I an see this doing well in the future as its cracker. There is a nice pace to this too and i think you use your characters and events to raise the pace when needed and likewise when you need to slow it down again too. I wish you all the luck int he world for this book and I will be scoring it high.
Sean Connolly. British Army on the Rampage. (B.A.O.R) Please consider me for a read or watch list wont you?? Many thanks. Sean

David,

Stop the Insanity is the rare piece of political writing that didn't make my head hurt -- high praise! Well organized and clearly written, the book appears to deliver on its promise of practical and sensible solutions to Congressional gridlock.

I particularly appreciate the way you give examples that are easy for the layperson to picture and understand, such as in the chapter on Efficiency, Effectiveness and Appropriateness. Untangling these aspects of good government is also helpful for revealing where the pitfalls might lie.

Your calm and measured tone is a relief from the usual high-temperature political rhetoric, especially after the election year we've just endured. The voice of the book matches the title, which leads me to trust your suggestions and hope those who can make a difference will take it to heart.

Not much to nitpick here! I have two questions in chapter 1 that might not even be corrections:

. . . affect so many changes . . . This seems like one of those rare cases where you actually want the verb form of effect. You don't want to just influence changes (affect them), you actually want to make them happen (effect them).

It is inherent upon us, the voting public, to stop the seemingly insane behavior of the electorate . . . A little confused here: by electorate, do you mean the voters? In that case, it sounds a little circular. Or do you mean of those elected? I could see it either way, but it's not completely clear and maybe just needs to be recast.

Good work! May it go far.

Karen Eisenbrey
CRANE'S WAY
ENDURANCE
TIME SQUARED

You have many compelling points, many which are valid concerns. I appreciate you writing them down. I'm not sure what the answer is regarding our country. All I know is that we need a renewed moral compass and a financially fiscal policy that would bring our country back to its original ideals. Great book. I am not in line with everything in your writing, but I find it to be an honest look and a starting point to begin. Best of luck with your book. Thank you for your support of December Gold. Blessings.

Well, I'm not an American, but sometimes wonder where your country is heading and I think it's down the tubes. But well written book, good ideas. but I think that if the simple idea of government spending less, cutting back and increasing taxes doesn't sink in then very soon America won't be around as we know it. Everyone thinks Greece and Spain are in trouble because they owe so much money, but Americans owe about double that per person and no one seems worried?? Don't get it. Meanwhile China is continuing to gain ground, Americans and us Canadians as well, continue to buy Chinese products to support their economy instead of ours. Soon very soon they will be the number one world power and the USA will be what Great Britain is now, a former powerful state.
That's my slant on the world today.
PS
I do agree with you on withdrawing from wars outside of your country and withdrawing aid. Look after your selves first and get your own house of cards in order before instilling your doctrine on others.
But high stars, well written book.

Social security clarity? Wow, David! Nobody has explained it better. Good job!

Lela Markham - The Willow Branch

Good job explaining efficiency, effectiveness and appropriateness. I disagree that appropriateness of government services is subjective. The US Constitution enumerates what is appropriate for the federal government to do -- the military, diplomacy, defense of the border, protection of individual rights, and regulation of problematic interstate commerce.

Quite brave of you to address the military issue. It's a fine line. If you reduce the military too much and then a war breaks out that we do need to respond to, the feds have to institute a draft and force young people to serve instead of relying on the willing. If you "bring the troops home" and keep them stationed in the US, I'm sorry to tell you, they will begin to oppress Americans. I live in a big military town and since the troops came home from deployment, there are issues with them pushing locals around. So many here are former military and they'll just push back, but in other communities -- it's similar to what happens when you increase police in an area. Once crime as been suppressed, they start trying to control the law-abiding.

I do like the idea of stationing the troops on our border, but I'd also put them to work inspecting ship containers.

Lela Markham - The Willow Branch

Okay, you've hooked me and I plan to read more. I have read the first two chapters so far. You've got some typos, but the writing is relatively clean. You tend to repeat concepts, which is fine, but you might want to concentrate on restating what you say rather than repeating the same phrase. Trust that the reader got the first point and then reinforce it with that point stated in a different way.

I sort of disagree with you on taxation. You're going to have to provide some evidence for your assertion that people would willingly pay higher taxes if government appeared efficient to them. My sister-in-law is an accountant and she tells me that, historically speaking, the 1950s saw an awful lot of tax cheats and I'd say that was an era when most folks thought the government was operating quite efficiently.

So, it will be interesting to see if you can win me over. I'm cautiously optimistic, especially about your voting ideas. I vote third-party a lot at the state level. I'm interested to see if you address ballot access laws as barriers to independent and third-party candidates.

Lela Markham - The Willow Branch

Hi David

Even though I'm not American I can see exactly where you are coming from, we suffer from similar problems here in UK politics. I hope you do well in your quest & from your other comments it seems that are others who agree with you.

However from the writing point of view, I speed read the first chapter & picked up on a few problems. Occasionally you miss words out, I picked up a simple one in the first paragraph ' ... yet each election...' should be 'yet in each election'. I usually find that where there is one there are often others, so have a good read through & you may spot other omissions.

Your writing style is very personal, I presume this is because you feel so passionately about your subject, but you will come up against the problem that people will not read what you write unless they agree with you. Therefore it would be better to learn how to be objective in how you put across the main issues as you see them. Get to know how the other side thinks & feels about these same issues, & whilst not agreeing with them at least show that you understand where they are coming from. Perhaps it would also help not to use so many personal pronouns, but learn to write in the third person.

I hope this helps,

All the best

Pam Balsdon
The King's Blessing

Quite an effort there. A very concerted and well-thought collection of societal woes, with thought-provoking ideas.

However; please allow a word of caution: be careful of the tendency to lean more and more on government for the answers. The less self-reliant we have become, and the more God has been moved to the background as we place government on a pedestal, the further we have declined. Government cannot dictate a person's internal workings, and without improving the internal workings, humans will always defile what they do.

Getting away from God has either destroyed values, or personalized them into being self-serving rather than community-serving. Everyone wants things their own way, and the result is no one can agree on anything as they pursue that way. No society has held up to the pressures of such a fragmented society. A common set of values is needed, one where one thinks beyond the self. With a restored foundation in God, everything will improve -- debate, salesmanship, prison reform, work ethic, environmental responsibility, orphan care, education, etc.

Thus, as we seek to correct the ills of society, the very foundational effort of restoring religious liberty must be afforded a priority. Without the foundation, the house will collapse.

Please do not take this as negative. We need to stoke the creative juices to look for answers, and Stop the Insanity's achievement here is extensive. Mine is an effort to restore the one all-encompassing missing ingredient: God.

God bless.
Ben Franklin

Fascinating! Your writing is that of a very well- educated journalist. It is clear, precise, logical, and easy for that mid-row American to read and understand. I get really turned off by people who's view shoot us off into the far left or right wings of politics. And although a few of your ideas started to head left, most of your thoughts were very reasonable, well studied, and well thought out.

This is a Great place to put out your ideas. It's a good solid book that will find plenty of avid readers, and might just accomplish its goal. I liked how you have each chapter set up to clearly lay out the problem, your idea, and then details of how that could be accomplished, using examples and illustrations.
Love your overall theme of how facing the truth will help solve the problem.
Aside from your brilliant writing, your book sets me to thinking (which is a another sign of good writing, by the way :-) ) three thoughts that you got me thinking about, you are welcome to read, or dump. :-) just the way I see things:

1 education k-12 -a very complex problem that you have tried really hard to simplify. Many have tried with "programs" , money, directives, etc to address and/or change the problems we have with our system, but really, it comes down to parents, families, attitudes of the children, appropriate teaching methods for students who learn "differently", and teachers who teach because they love to teach, and love the students. Money doesn't matter here. Directives- like the "no student left behind" program failed becuase you cant just plug money into the system and tell teachers, and students, what "they have to do". people are too complex. their issues are complex. our lives, our agency, our experiences, what drives us -- much too complex for one page of "answers".

2 same thing for the prison system. If we were out to "make" people not do bad things. Your system would work great. But America understands that people need more than that. We understand that people need their unmanipulated agency in order to grow and change. in order to "become" a greater human being, we must choose to do whats right because we desire to, not because we will be beaten. This "weakness" as you might call it is actually what makes America stand out in its greatness, even though it allows so many people to mess up again and again. and you are right- it is a messy system. and maybe it doesnt do what it should about keeping crime off the streets, but I am grateful for the way that it tries, and for the way that it offers justice, and opportunity without coersion, threat, and manipulation.

3; I actually read over the Liberty, and Independent candidates, feeling like I would vote for them if I felt they had appropriate experience, wisdom and ability to move the country forward. But I dont know if they just didnt know how to write up their description, but none of them were very impressive at all. They were all just very nice people who have great dreams. I just dont think Im ready to put the country into the hands of nice people who have great dreams. They really have to know what to do, and how to do it. THey need experience and the people need to be able to look and see that they know what to do and how to do it. I think the only reason Romney got as far as he did was because of what he has done with the Olympics, and how he has worked with the two parties to get so many good things accomplished in his state. If we had an Independent who could make it as a governor of Calif, who could turn their state around-- I and half the united states would vote for him or her. We just have to SEE something first.

Everyone has dreams. and everyone has ideas. Many of yours were so very well founded! I hope this book helps to get them out to someone who can help put them in motion. People have become very skeptical of dreams, though. We have to really understand it. We have to feel like we are seeing both sides. We have to see it happen--taste it. Its just the way we are. You've got a big job on your hands. But it can happen. Dont give up.!!! :-)

So, having read your book, I wonder if my book wont make you crazy if you choose to read it. :-) It is fantasy, adventure, but with underlying hopes for young people to learn about life.
anyways, I really appreciate all critiques. that is how i learn. So if the thought of reading a fantasy doesnt make you crazy, and you do choose to read it, dont feel like you "have to be nice" . I expect someone of your back ground and education, to be honest and I will be appreciate of any comments you might have.

Thanks! and good luck to you! I'll be keeping a watch on your book. :-) High stars. :-)
Jeannette Singleton
Journey to Kalado're

STOP THE INSANITY / dloganw (Whom I know to be David Logan)

Overall, the writing is good because Mr Logan is a good writer. Moreover, this book isn't intended to entertain..but to educate. There are times when many points of issue are repeated, meaning it could be trimmed so as not to 'lose' some borderline Independant readers.

Personally, I agree with many of the things relayed in this work. Much of it is indeed common sense (as one person indicated below), however, the ability to explain it, which Logan does with great skill indicating he has a good understanding of issues confronting the American people. For instance, he gives numbers and examples when utilizing hypothetical situations that are realistical and layman friendly so pretty much anyone can understand his points. Whether political science major or construction worker, I think people will gain a better understanding of how both the system works and what is required by the 'average Joe' to collectively help fix it.

I do take issue with some of the ideaology / philosophy portrayed in this book. (I agree with about 85% of it / I don't agree with anything that has government giving people's money to others to buy things like houses - A house is not an entitlement so no tax credit for first time home buyers - Incentivize the home builder to have lower price would bring about more competitive pricing and affect a larger section of the market, promote stability over a longer term and cause less defaults) That said, I read every single bit because even in parts I may not have totally supported, I felt my conscious was being fed with an energetic and realistic view of 'How To Solve' instead of rhetoric such as we get with politicians.

Mr Logan explains his ideas very well. He supports his theories with obvious knowledge. His thoughts are relevent, rational and refined. As mentioned, I don;t agree with all because I think damage to our economic structure is so intense that there is much that will never be the same again such as the disappearence of manufacturing from small cities across America and the negative influence of labor unions that drives our production costs to levels whereas we cannot compete anymore.

I liked the Crime and Punishment section although I would think it unlikely that it could come to fruition. Personally, I'm for handing convicted felons a sledgehammer and let them make dust out of rocks and boulders 14 hours a day. Shorter sentences of harder labor, making them truely freaking sorry they victimized an innocent person, or whatever victim-type crime they may have committed. I do believe in stopping this drug-offender lock up stuff...it's stupid and takes up space we could have child molestors and robbers occupying.

All in all, this is a great reference of good solid ideas and common-sense solutions. Mr Logan is passionate and that comes out at times in things he says. An edit may want to delete some of the passion so as the context can be taken into account by a larger section of the populous.

Frankly, I'd vote for Logan for President over the two bozos that are running. If they could explain their ideas half as well as he can, it would benefit them.

All in all this is an excellent piece of work. My advice: Slim it down, eliminate some repeating points and give it a good edit for puncuation.

Way to give a damn.

Emmett
(E M Delaney)

I loved it. Food for thought.

David, Because your topic is one I'm interested in and think is of critical importance, I read your entire book.

While I don't agree with all of your ideas, I agree with many of them. Regardless, your book is sharp, well-reasoned, and well-executed. If all of your ideas were put in place, I have no doubt the USA would be in better shape than it is today.

Every American who is concerned about the dysfunctional mess we call a government should read this book. Highly starred. Congratulations on a fine job! Mark

Sorry for the delay in backing you; I only come onto the website once or twice a month - good luck! No need to back my book as I have made the desk but if you leave a constructive comment, that would be appreciated.

Cheers!
JCC

Hi David

Thanks for your message - this is a thought provoking piece and although I am not an americian the issues you raise seem familar in terms of the goverment in my country and I applaud you for bringing them to light

The best of luck with this book

Steph

Kudos to the author for taking the time and trouble to think through our political woes and suggest some changes. I do not believe that one book can change our political priorities and behavior, but I applaud anyone who is game enough to try.

Well, get down with your bad self! What a detailed account of how to easily make a bunch-o-improvements. Let me know when you will try for office and you'll get my vote. Good work with a better idea. Peter B. Nagy

I read three chapters, the one on the Laffer curve, the follow up on Efficiency, and the one on prisons.

From the stuff I read I’d say you start with an overview of the problem, which is fine. Your points seem reasonable, if a little obvious (nothing wrong with that), but you then tend to repeat yourself a number of times, unnecessarily, I felt.

Once you explain how Democrats and Republicans perceive the Laffer Curve differently (and why) you then go over it again, and again.

You point out how criminals tend to be repeat offenders, and then you say it three different ways.

I don’t disagree with what you’re saying, but there’s no need to overstate it. That tends to be the sign of an insecure writer fretting that his point isn’t clear enough so he hammers it into the ground.

Your solutions/suggestions are okay, clearly stated, but often a little simplistic and not really taking the whole problem into account.

Both Rep and Dems already understand the points you make about efficiency and effectiveness. I know this because they promise to do them all the time. They just don’t follow through. It isn’t that they aren’t aware, something else is stopping them.

Prisons have high recidivism rates despite various rehabilitation programs. It would certainly help to have better research into what works and what doesn’t, but it would take a lot of investment of time and money, and it would also threaten the financial security of the people who run the prisons. So double whammy of needing to find lots of money, and a well funded opposition in your way.

I like the caning idea, simple and cheap, but you mention Singapore without giving any details. What is crime like over there with this deterrent? Obviously it’s a different part of the world, but how does it compare to neighbouring countries without caning? Lots of info you could give us but don’t. You even mention some issues you are aware of but that you say you won’t go into here. If not here than where? Makes it seem a bit half-hearted.

Mainly though you don’t seem to address the spectre of vested interests. No matter how big a disaster for people in general (environment, banks, taxes, obesity) there are a small group of people making a lot of money. And they use that money to lobby and hire lawyers and buy politicians. I’m not sure if you address that somewhere in teh chapters i haven't read, but I would suggest that is the bigger problem. Most of the solutions are already known (more efficient government, less corruption), how to effect them is the sticking point. And I don’t think you make a strong enough case for how to get your ideas past those who would rather things stay as they are.

So while I don't disagree with any of your points, I didn't get any real sense of how you would get yuour independent legislators in place and force through your changes. (Although you may have dealt with this in the bits I haven't read).

This review is for: dloganw's Stop the Insanity
Date: 09.25.2012
Review By: Elizabeth Raine
Chapters: 1 (Chapter 8)
Short & Long Pitch – Very to the point and a treat for political enthusiasts.

Notes for Short and Long Pitch – None to note.

Chapter 8: This has a very powerful narrative and it seems like the author has very strong views on what would work for America and what might help us in the long run. The political views could possibly cause some harsh views or some sighs of 'uh oh' down the road, but I believe you are onto something. I'm not quite sure what yet, but you are. I can easily see this as a successful book as well as a documentary. It seems like it would make a very good documentary, with a strong voiceover.

Well done.


Notes for Chapter 8: None to note.


6/6 stars. Watch listed.

~ Elizabeth.
Like Father, Like Daughter
Alice

Hi,

Thank you for asking me to read your book.

You have some great ideas in there. I am not an American and therefore I cannot really comment on the people that are running your country. All I do know is, if they are of the same mind as the people running my country then God help us all.
The people in my country are very disillusioned with the people in Government. And it doesn't matter which side is in power: we have had them all in at one stage or another.
As soon as they are in power they forget to play by the rules i.e. not fulfilling the promises that they made before they were elected.

I can, obviously, see your point in not building factories offshore but have them in your country instead. That, unfortunately, would be detriment to our country as we have some American companies here.

A lack of education is really the key to a lot of problems in our society. The child that needs a little bit of extra help will be overlooked if there is overcrowding in classrooms. This child will fall behind in their learning. They may feel inferior or stupid. A life of crime becomes tempting and alluring. The child may not be good in school but good at stealing or worse.

I don't agree with caning. I don't think someone should have that sort of power over another human being.

Young teenagers need stimulation and a sense of belonging. There should be a lot more youth cafes, sports campus, indoor and outdoor play areas, driving lesson schools for the young adult where they get to drive cars around tracks and learn the necessary skills to drive.

Education, compassion and love would go a long way in improving our society. Oh, and not believing the promises our politicians give us before they become elected.

Good luck with your book.

"The bed next to mine"

Stop the insanity is well written and points out what has gon wrong with America. Being a Republic, our government doesent follow what the majority wants and doesn't answer for it. Your book points out a number off the things that slow financial recovery, but political payoffs prevent the change needed.

I hope your book does some good.

David,
There is a human tendency to rationalize inaction, to hope for things to happen through natural progression rather than trying to force an issue, hence the long-winded arguments against change. But then again there is in all of us innate wisdom, intuitive response, gut reaction or even "conscience talking" when things don't square, something's off or doesn't feel right. Take the Oriental mind acutely conscious of these imbalances, distortions, energy blockages, turning to feng-shui, yingyang or holisitic healing, all because harmony is paramount to our existence. But that's digressing, let's focus closer to home.

Stepping back and looking at the big picture, namely the U.S.A. at half-mast, beset by ailments and somewhat lost, one can only conclude that your book makes absolute sense. Never mind the dissenters who look for reasons why certain points you raise won't gell. The intent of your book is to find ways to make things work. You identify problems in basic, simple terms and point out solutions in laymen's language we all understand. In this spirit, with the momerntum going, we should all participate, add our voices to the clamor because in so doing, at the end of the day, when all is said and done, WE WILL DO THE RIGHT THING.

Yes, bailing out homeowners and not banks is correct; yes, bringing the armed forces home is correct; yes, building factories here and not offshore is correct; yes, cutting the cost of higher education by utilizing the internet is correct; yes, encouraging democracy in Cuba by dropping the boycott is correct; yes, making the post office affordable by cutting delivery tiime is correct; yes, helping the American poor first before helping others is correct. It's common sense. Difficult or not, we gotta do what we gotta do.

Although, instead of caning, may I suggest hard labor for criminals? Enabling them to repay their debt to society by earning merit points based on attitude and productivity, demonstrating a desire to rejoin civilization?

Sincerely,

Kenneth Edward Lim
"The North Korean"

Hi, Dear David,
I have read part of your book, I am surprised by your ideas, especially the Chapter 4, most of the American people that I know would not criticize the policy of overseas military forces. they thought it is necessary to safeguard the American's interests.
Sorry for reply you late and I have got your new email on the internet courses...
If I have any latest news on that, I would let you know!
Best Regards!!!
By the way, this book is nice...

David,

I think I need to take your book in bite-sized chunks otherwise i will not be capable of giving decent feedback. I am also not an American - which may or may not be an issue.
Firstly, the theory of taxation you refer to is one I have not come across before - but is utterly fascinating and rings very true. You go on to discuss two further issues in the first two chapters: Appropriateness and the 'two-party' system. Let me take the second first: From a British perspective I see no need for there to be only two parties. Much like in England this results in historical perspecitives where what I would refer to as 'old ideology' takes precedence over commonsense. Surely we need new parties built on the issues of the day rather than the polemics of historical alliegance. Without new blood everything much eventually waste away. I guess this brings the debate neatly to alliegance. Who decides? A system built on 'old prejudice' will always be polemic. In your country and in mine we need fluidity. I think your constitution says something about government by the people for the people.... That is is clearly not what is happening in either of our countries. If the people had greater choice would they accept the things they are offered? It seems to me that we need a new polotical manifesto that relates to the human need as well as the economic need - dare I call that a human rights movement?

Your chapters on overseas commitment are challening. American foreign policy appears from afar to be often based on the desire to deny the unseen enemy whilst being unclear about the desired outcome. Maybe you do not need bases all around the world - after all America is pretty impregnable from direct assault. So is the purpose sufficiently articulated? Is the USA trying to save the world from itself? Or control the world for itself?

My final comment on the four chapters that I have read would be that whilst Korea is somewhat annoying to you, the stress you place on it misses the point - just like in the UK the Armed Forces and the major technology companies are mutualy dependent on the continuation of the status quo. Careers are at stake here! It is the Emperors new clothes (if you have such a reference in the States). Without the armed forces there is no technological investment - and without the technology companies there are no careers for retiring senior officers!

As you might sense your book both intrigues and stimulates thought. I have a sense that if you took some of your own personal agnst out of it you would have a much more powerful staement to make.

All the best - and I look forward to reading more.

Keith
Peppermint

Dear David,
When I got your message I first thought it could be a spam but something stopped me from deleting it and I started to read. I appreciate that you not just as many others scold but try to change things.
And your work is well written too.
I wish you best luck with it and thank you for sharing.
6 stars from us.

I read three of the chapters of which I have some knowledge, though not an expert. First, the crime and punishment chapter was well thought out. I think the physical punishment would be hard to get past most legislators today. However, the logic behind it is sound. Maybe you can find an alternative to caning. It is effective and well-deserved, but something as physical, but less corporal could be added to your points. Other elements are okay, but unless we get rid of everyone in power, it's going to be hard to straighten this mess out. One thing you didn't consider is building prisons overseas. If we could build them for five cents on the dollar, we could get rid of our worst criminals and use the more expensive domestic facilities to rehab the changeable bad guys. I liked a lot of your ideas on high education. Not just the cost-cutting, but re-organizing how to get a degree and how classes are made available. Finally, the legislative points are on the money. But again, we'd have to throw a lot of people out of office to get it done. I agree with the idea of putting a time limit on laws. We should be taking fresh looks at all laws. Who can forget Ted Kennedy's debacle on immigration. I'd also like to see a limit on Supreme Court Justices terms. How about ten years and you're out? I like the way you've written the book. It's easy to read and absorb. Points are focused nicely. You've included some footnotes, but it may help to quote studies from qualified outfits to prove your points. You're a forward thinker and there are studies to support your ideas. Good job. Don't give up on it.

Since you have twice very nicely asked me to give "Stop the Insanity" a read, I have given it a look. Trust me, It is not a read in my comfort zone! I did not like the first couple of chapters mostly because you seemed to be winding up to say something and weren't really saying it. The style seemed a little casually cynical for such an important subject. Gradually, as I hung in there, I felt you settled into the 'meat' of your arguments and began to say real things. I don't agree with many of them but you do make your points and your writing is easier to read. I am not at all qualified to comment on Economics--it was a required college course years ago, but I managed to waive the class it by taking and passing the final exam by reading the required texts. I think you need to make the first few chapters more substantive and not spend so much space telling what you are going to say, but get right to saying it. I hope you can fix this enough so people will read and learn and most of all think! BTW, have you given my "Starr" at least a look?!!! Best of luck with this.

I, too have a degree in Economics and I think that government will never be efficient. There are too many different ideologies from across the US for it to be. For efficiency everyone has to have the same idea, which is basically what we have in the two-party system we have now. Republicans, for the most part believe the same thing and Democrats believe the same thing. Adding another party, in the majority, will only add to the division. I think that the Republican party has become idiotic and will not survive long. In our history there have been many changes in parties and ideologies.

That said, the book, what I read of it, is very good, is not highly technical so everyone can understand and informative. Sometimes I think you spend to much time explaining what you are going to explain. Get to the point because you have a interesting way of laying it all out.

Good job. Many stars from me.

Abby

Stop the Insanity.
Sorry I've taken so long following-uo this read swap, but at lasy here I am.
I opted for chapter ten, which you origionally asked me to read.
Education is something I have my own opinions about - though many would argue against them and I can understand why they disagree with me.
First I get the whole feeling of dispair. Okay, its understandable that people want their children to have a good education and often their children need to go to university to study for a particular occupation like law etc. However there are many of them who go to university and dont really have an occupation in mind and dont really need the qualifications. I honestly believe the further education isn't necessary for half of the students attending.
When you talk about feeling sorry for the people who have to get loans to send there kids to university, it makes me think 'are they in the real world?' I never dreamt of being able to go there. My nephew has just got a loan to go this year and he feels very priviledged. But he knows that even though he will have qualifications afterwards they wont necessarily get him a job. In fact he'll probably end up working in a factory or at Mcdonalds. But I guess its okay to have dreams.
It is expensive to go to University. In England if you haven't a great deal of money but you can get help with student loans. You have to pay them back when you get a job but unlike many others, I believe its a good thing. Students never used to have to pay the money back which I dont agree with. At least now they take more responsibility and dont waste the money on partying etc.
But even so I do think the government in both America and England should fund more. You mentioned Cuba when you asked me to read your book. In Cuba, University is fully funded for - I dont particularly like their system, but their youth do get a good education. So why is America with their so called 'world leadership' so far behind?
Stop the Insanity is a well written and extremely interesting book. Highly starred.
junetee
FOUR CORNERS.

High stars and will add to WL and back as soon as space. Sue, 'It's a Dog's Life.

Read Swap – Stop the Insanity

David,
This seems a well thought out, well written dialogue on one man's ideas to fix the US government and on what government should be. Your optimism is applaudable, and I wish you luck with your efforts. There definitely is insanity in Washington, and the career politicians need replacing.

Your use of plain language and real world examples makes this an easy read, and your chapters are a manageable length.

One simile I noticed that might not be well received was the idea that there are too many 'chiefs' and not enough 'Indians'.

I am sorry that I don't have much in the way of constructive criticism. I will give this five stars and wish you the best of luck.

Kate

Dear David, you're a good man, and your idea of ​​a humane and correct, but in my opinion, evil is so overwhelmed with the world, to make good any attempt to eradicate it, was cut down at the root. A group of people who rule the world, dictating the conditions of life, war, the destruction of everything that could contribute to real progress for all, regardless of nationality, religion and race.Evil is strengthened and unfortunately I think that no one can prevent the government as being of this world. Same thingh happened in my country, and all the world, I think.I'm a big pessimist about the favorable solutions for common people.All the best for you.Tamara.

As per your request, I took a look at a few chapters.

One thing I noticed is that you do seem passionate about the subjects. You've put some thought into it, and I imagine it would be engaging to hold a conversation with you on these subjects.

But that is also the main problem I have with these chapters. I felt while reading this as though I was having a discussion at lunch down at my local bar. While the ideas presented may well benefit the country, there is no means to validate your facts. Everything I read I was expected to take at face value, and unless you can back up these claims with solid research, I see no reason why I should believe the statistics you deliver.

It's like when writing a paper for a college class. It doesn't matter how good your ideas are, you need to have sources to validate your claims. This would give your arguments credibility, which as an unpublished author you are severely lacking. Luckily, this is a problem you could easily rectify with footnotes or an appendix at the end.

Overall there are some problems, but they can be easily corrected. Keep at it and in no time I'm sure you will have this polished spectacularly. Best of luck,

Brad

As per your request, I took a look at a few chapters.

One thing I noticed is that you do seem passionate about the subjects. You've put some thought into it, and I imagine it would be engaging to hold a conversation with you on these subjects.

But that is also the main problem I have with these chapters. I felt while reading this as though I was having a discussion at lunch down at my local bar. While the ideas presented may well benefit the country, there is no means to validate your facts. Everything I read I was expected to take at face value, and unless you can back up these claims with solid research, I see no reason why I should believe the statistics you deliver.

It's like when writing a paper for a college class. It doesn't matter how good your ideas are, you need to have sources to validate your claims. This would give your arguments credibility, which as an unpublished author you are severely lacking. Luckily, this is a problem you could easily rectify with footnotes or an appendix at the end.

Overall there are some problems, but they can be easily corrected. Keep at it and in no time I'm sure you will have this polished spectacularly. Best of luck,

Brad

The first thing to note about anything I may say is that I am English and therefore ill-qualified to comment on all of this. In mitigation, I have, in a past life, worked on marketing for a mainstream political party. Regardless of who I worked for, politically I am an aggressive liberal and I understand and support a lot of what you are saying. There are some caveats though. In the UK we have the Liberal Democrats, who try to occupy the middle ground. They claim that practicality and common sense should be of more importance than political considerations. However, so far their track record has been hugely disappointing and they are often accused of being woolly and indecisive in their thinking. The electorate, sadly, loves the polarisation of issues and weaning them off it would not be easy. You have chosen a very rocky path, but I suspect you already know that.

On the practical side, your writing is good, clear and well presented. At all times I was far more aware of your arguments than your style and that is how it should be. Just a quick thought from a marketing perspective, I feel the title of your book is too negative. It would be much better to add a positive tagline, such as “Stop the insanity, a new way forward.” It offers hope for a better future and that’s so important in politics.

I think you deserve some luck with this
All the best

Simon

I read the first two chapters of "Stop The Insanity". This is well written and is setting your twelve identified problems. The narrative flows well and transition to key topics delivered timely.

On the corporate and political side I like the message but you need to sharpen the delivery. By that I'm saying we as a representative government recognize the flaws and have seen constant attacks and rhetoric from the established political parties. So bashing the system some more will also in effect place this literary work among the piles of literature that exposes the flaws in the system. But the fact that you draw any light is courageous however naive.

Let's be more precise in fixing each problem. For each of the twelve tell me how to tackle corporations like Boeing, Microsoft, or the military industrial complex. How does an honest elected official avoid threats to his family when energy barons threaten to derail his career or end his life? And if you don't think this happens just ask the Kennedy
or Hoffa family. How do we use social networking on the Internet to possibly change voting or our antiquated electoral system?

I'll read further but early on in the chapters I'm seeing a trend I've seen in other books on governmental change or remembered trying to talk young men and women out of crime, kidnapping, and militancy. You can bash a problem or overthrow a dictator. But if you have no plan in place to improve then it could end as fast as it begun or become worse.--JL "The Wings of the Seraph" & "The Devil Of Black Bayou"

David...Here I am rereading your rewrite. Thought occurred to me...do you address anywhere the problem of reaching the mass of stupid people who seem unable to comprehend simple facts and simple logic and continue to vote against their own self interests for the most simplistic of reasons? That's the thing that makes me nuts. Later, Lynne

“Stop the Insanity” is a clearly and cogently argued plea for the world’s largest democracy to start doing what a democracy is supposed to do, govern for and with the people. Its aspirations are firmly founded on discussions of relevant topics—taxation and spending, military engagement, a concern for an adequate social safety net, an end to the Cuban embargo—all of which efficiently summarize the major areas of engagement for a democratic government and provide simple guidelines for these areas to be appropriately dealt with. Underlying everything is a continuing plea for America to recognize the resources it already possesses and utilise them in view of clearly recognized long-term goals. A pithy explanation of America’s current situation and a way out.

I've finished the first 4 chapters. At the outset, I was disposed to like this, and some of his ideas may well be good. However, there are standards of proof that claims supporting or protesting anything must be adhered to. Unfortunately, the author often doesn't substantiate all of his claims .

For instance, he cites "The Internet" as the source for the astonishing claim that our Federal Government owns 14,000 "vacant or near vacant" buildings for which it pays "hundreds of millions of dollars a year for upkeep. The problems with this claim have to do with its source, and even the most basic proof that such buildings exist. Also, how can it cost "hundreds of millions of dollars" to maintain 14,000 buildings?

First, we must consider the reliability of his source. The Internet in and of itself is not a valid source. He doesn't say from what site this information derived. Nor does he cite the date it appeared, or what was the purpose of this claim or the identity or probable objectivity of the claimant. Anyone can say anything on the Internet. Unlike mainstream publications, the information on the Internet is not vetted by fact checkers. Furthermore, it is not vetted to see if the claimant has an axe to grind. People who want to get or keep power can say whatever they want about anything or anyone. Think of Hitler's outrageous lies. Americans took pride in the fact that we wouldn't fall for such propaganda, but apparently some of us will.

As for the buildings themselves, where are they? For what purposes were they purchased, if, indeed, they were? Why are they vacant? Finally, why do they cost so much to maintain? Do they have walls covered in gold? Also, If they exist, why haven't they been sold? What branch of government is responsible for them? What purpose do these buildings serve?

I think the author has to verify his facts before we can rationally assess his ideas for an overhaul of the government. Note, I am not saying that the government doesn't need overhauling. It does, but any plan to do so must rest on sound facts. Otherwise any demagogue can seize power. Even a Hitler.

I've finished the first 4 chapters. At the outset, I was disposed to like this, and some of his ideas may well be good. However, there are standards of proof that claims supporting or protesting anything must be adhered to. Unfortunately, the author often doesn't substantiate all of his claims .

For instance, he cites "The Internet" as the source for the astonishing claim that our Federal Government owns 14,000 "vacant or near vacant" buildings for which it pays "hundreds of millions of dollars a year for upkeep. The problems with this claim have to do with its source, and even the most basic proof that such buildings exist. Also, how can it cost "hundreds of millions of dollars" to maintain 14,000 buildings?

First, we must consider the reliability of his source. The Internet in and of itself is not a valid source. He doesn't say from what site this information derived. Nor does he cite the date it appeared, or what was the purpose of this claim or the identity or probable objectivity of the claimant. Anyone can say anything on the Internet. Unlike mainstream publications, the information on the Internet is not vetted by fact checkers. Furthermore, it is not vetted to see if the claimant has an axe to grind. People who want to get or keep power can say whatever they want about anything or anyone. Think of Hitler's outrageous lies. Americans took pride in the fact that we wouldn't fall for such propaganda, but apparently some of us will.

As for the buildings themselves, where are they? For what purposes were they purchased, if, indeed, they were? Why are they vacant? Finally, why do they cost so much to maintain? Do they have walls covered in gold? Also, If they exist, why haven't they been sold? What branch of government is responsible for them? What purpose do these buildings serve?

I think the author has to verify his facts before we can rationally assess his ideas for an overhaul of the government. Note, I am not saying that the government doesn't need overhauling. It does, but any plan to do so must rest on sound facts. Otherwise any demagogue can seize power. Even a Hitler.

Excellent. Rational. Can hardly wait to read more, but how do you make government better in a system where parties are more interested in blowing the opposition out of the water than in reforming government?

David,

I have read through the first couple of chapters, as promised, and plan to read more as time permits. I feel that I am unqualified at this time to make any argument for or against your theories as I haven't read through the bulk of your book. As of yet, I am only raising questions as I read - some of which may be answered later in the text.

For instance, the idea of electing Independent voters unattached to an agenda seems idealistic. First, everyone has an agenda. Second, to the best of my knowledge, Independents have very little success in elections because the majority of voters are stuck in the mind frame of Republican vs. Democrat. Many have deep rooted allegiances to a party, but, as I said, it looks as if you have answers to that concern in your final chapter.

Also, what constitutes an "as needed" tax raise? Emergency? Paying off the deficit? Do you have guidelines? One of the blessings of being a U.S. citizen is that we have the ability to think for ourselves and have our own ideas about what is or is not needed. This is especially true of our elected officials. No one seems to agree on anything these days. How would you propose to reach an agreement on what is needed? There are obviously going to be those with a more liberal idea of what is needed than others.

Now, I'm not saying there isn't a need for reform. Whether or not I agree with your ideas - which I haven't decided as of yet because I'm still reading, there is definitely room for improvement within our government. I have pondered over ideas for some issues myself, only to discover the holes in the logic. I guess what I'm saying is that I would like to see an argument with no holes. Is that possible? I don't know.

Lynn
Surviving Sunset

David,

I have read Chapter 12 about the K-12 education programs. I believe you have several different great ideas going. If I had had the choice, I would have sent my children to a Charter School if I were in an area which I feel I needed to. It has been proven Charter Schools have out performed some of the public schools. Studies have shown students are more connected to the program because they are studying something they are more interested in. Charter Schools are not completely considered public schools. They are between public and private. They have more flexibility in structuring academic programs.

Now of course, in the earlier years I feel the teachers have a wonderful program going. As I have said before, we have Kindergardeners reading 6 months into the program. So I agree, it will depend on the locations and children in the area.

And do know, there are extremely talented teachers in the field in the upper grades as well. Sometimes it is the curriculum or the system holding them back or restricting them. Society plays a big part in what and how the schools are run. Children have more rights than teachers in some cases. Believe it or not, I have seen teachers in trouble because they push the students to work hard. There are sometimes other factors mingling in progress. Other countries have this issue worked out better maybe.

Great job David! You have a good heart and great ideas! Keep up the good work. I would vote for you. On my watchlist!
Sara Stinson :)
Finger Bones

STOP THE INSANITY
By DloganW

I read chapter one to learn of your ability to express what is meaningful to you in the politicians arena. I learned you do indeed know what you are talking about. You have a way of expressing yourself on these issues that is both entertaining and slightly amusing. Perhaps there will be someone in America who will read your book and be motivated to challenge the system and bring about enough change to make a difference. Don't forget, those who are making a career of muddling it are mostly weathy in their own right and thus a battle of two entities who can hurl power at one another is what will likely ensue.

The last time anything significant was accomplished in the interest of freedom for American Citizens happened in 1775 when the war between the British and the American Colonies began. I suggest that it will take nothing less than another revolution to set things on track in any direction. The old guard is so deeply established in this country that to effect an upset of their interests would happen along the lines of a severe act of the people, for the people and by the people.

Take a look at the events of 911. For the first time in centuries, this country came and rallied together toward the aggression against our freedoms. Not even that endured for long as everyone went back to the way things were before that took place. Of course, those whose families were torn apart will never again know the kind of freedom that was intended for us when we broke away from tyranny and established this country ages ago.

If I am skeptical, then perhaps it is because I feel the only way we, as a country, can escape the kind of self-serving oppression that we are served up no matter who is elected to the office of President of The United States of America, is to find a final frontier even if it is on another planet.

I wish you well with your book. It reads like a state of the union that perhaps, when published, you will have laid out some guidelines toward that end.

Best of luck.

Mary Enck

Stop the Insanity. I've now dipped into Chs. 9-10. Fascinating stuff! You've clearly put a lot of time and thought into this.
Jane.

Dear David,

I continue to support STOP THE INSANITY for the simple reason that any author who is brave enough to voice his political opinion, no matter how radical his ideas are, will always get my vote... especially if those ideas are also backed by good intentions. You’ve evidently led a very eventful life and I applaud you for having drawn from that wealth of experience in writing this book. I choose not to comment on your ideas because I’m really in two minds about most of them. That doesn’t mean that I don’t see the truth in your arguments. I do... but simultaneously, I’m also compelled to consider the other side as well. The fact that I’m not an American may have something to do with my impartial stance, or maybe not. That said, I do believe that this book will find favour with many American citizens whose thoughts will be in line with yours. My only advice would be to spice up your account with a little humour, wherever possible. That will help you win over many of your detractors who would want to read this simply for the fun of it. At the same time, the lightness will also make your work more marketable, because, at the end of the day, this is still your informed opinion. So, best of luck with this book, my friend. I hope to see it climb to the top of the charts very soon.

Warm regards,
AGC

I've had a couple of messages from you now, so I stopped by to have a look. I do follow American politics, so was able to follow the majority, but this isn't normally my type of book, so I have nothing to compare it to. To me, though, this just seems to be one long political opinion. There was no debate or leeway, just your thoughts on what would make America better. Yes I agreed with some, some were unreailstic and unworkable and some were just outright crazy. Lashes? Caning? Are you kidding me???? I studied criminology and I found your whole chapter on punishment incredibly misinformed. Yes it should be about rehabilitation, but that's the only thing we agree on. I admire your fearlessness in writing down your opinions, but you lack a degree of expertise in some of the fields to come up with realistic alternatives. But books like this are popular, and no one is going to agree with you completely. Maybe more research, a bit more room for debate and I'd get on better with this book.

Lianne