MENAGE NO MORE - BOOMER EXPLAINER - WTF IS A POLYAMOROUS RELATIONSHIP

 MENAGE NO MORE - BOOMER EXPLAINER

WTF IS A POLYAMOROUS RELATIONSHIP

Alright, boomers, buckle up because we're about to dive into the wild world of polyamorous relationships. Now, I know what you're thinking - "What the heck is polyamory?" Well, let me break it down for you in a way that even your old-fashioned sensibilities can understand.

So, picture this: you're at a family barbecue, sipping on a cold one and chatting with your buddies about the good old days. Suddenly, your nephew starts talking about how he's in a polyamorous relationship. You nearly spit out your beer, wondering if he's speaking some kind of foreign language. But fear not, dear boomer, I'm here to decode this modern-day phenomenon for you.

First off, let's tackle the big question - what the heck is polyamory? Simply put, it's the practice of having multiple romantic or sexual partners at the same time, with the consent of everyone involved. That's right, it's not just swinging from the chandeliers - there's communication, honesty, and respect involved. It's like juggling multiple plates at a circus, except the plates are people and there's a whole lot more emotions involved.

Now, I can already hear the collective gasps from the boomer crowd. "But what about commitment? What about traditional values?" I hear you cry. Well, fear not, because polyamorous relationships can be just as committed and loving as monogamous ones. It's all about finding what works for the people involved, and let's face it - love comes in all shapes and sizes.

But wait, there's more! Polyamory isn't just about romantic relationships - it can also involve deep emotional connections with multiple partners. Imagine having a best friend who's also your lover, and then throwing another best friend/lover into the mix. It's like a sitcom with a whole lot more kissing.

Now, I know what you're thinking - "But isn't that just cheating with extra steps?" Nope, not quite. In a polyamorous relationship, everyone involved is aware of and consents to the multiple connections. It's like having a relationship spreadsheet where everyone's name is listed and there are color-coded tabs for date nights.

So, how does one even navigate the murky waters of polyamory? Well, communication is key. It's like being in a constant state of group chat, except instead of discussing weekend plans, you're talking about feelings, boundaries, and scheduling romantic rendezvous. It's like playing a game of emotional Twister - left foot on honesty, right hand on empathy.

And let's not forget about jealousy. Ah, good old jealousy - the green-eyed monster that rears its head in any relationship. In a polyamorous dynamic, jealousy is like that annoying relative who always shows up uninvited. It takes some serious self-reflection and open communication to tackle jealousy head-on. It's like being in a never-ending therapy session, except your therapist is also dating your partner.

Now, before you start clutching your pearls and reaching for the smelling salts, let me assure you that polyamory isn't for everyone. Just like how some people prefer their coffee black and others like it with a splash of cream, relationships come in all flavors. Some people thrive in monogamous relationships, while others find fulfillment in polyamory.

So, there you have it, dear boomers - a crash course in the wild world of polyamorous relationships. It may seem like a foreign concept at first, but hey, love is love, no matter how many people are involved. And who knows, maybe Uncle Bob and Aunt Susan will surprise you with their newfound love for polyamory. After all, stranger things have happened at family barbecues.

Everything you need to know about polyamory | The Independent https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/love-sex/polyamory-relationship-dating-meaning-b2149270.html 

Polyamorous Relationship: Rules, Types And Definition https://www.relrules.com/polyamorous-relationship/ 

What Is a Polyamorous Relationship? A Poly Woman InsightsHelloGiggles https://hellogiggles.com/polyamorous-relationship-explained/ 

PRIVATE SCHOOL VOUCHERS - RED STATE TOWER OF BABEL

PRIVATE SCHOOL VOUCHERS - RED STATE TOWER OF BABEL

 Once upon a time, in a land not so far away, there was a great tower known as the Tower of Babel. This tower was a symbol of human ambition and unity, a testament to the power of collaboration and the potential of mankind. But as the story goes, the people of Babel became too ambitious, too proud, and too unified for their own good. They sought to build a tower that would reach the heavens, a monument to their own greatness. But in their arrogance, they forgot the importance of humility and the value of diversity. And so, their tower crumbled, their language was confused, and they were scattered across the earth.

In many ways, the parable of the Tower of Babel is a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition and the folly of ignoring the lessons of history. It is a reminder that unity without diversity, and ambition without humility, can lead to disaster. And it is a lesson that we would do well to remember in our own time.

One of the most pressing issues facing our society today is the question of education. As the debate rages on about the role of public schools and the use of public funds for private education, it is worth considering the wisdom of those who came before us. President John Adams once said, "The whole people must take upon themselves the education of the whole people and be willing to bear the expenses of it." These words are as true today as they were when they were first spoken. Education is not just a privilege, but a responsibility that we all share. And it is a responsibility that we must be willing to invest in.

Public schools are the cornerstone of democracy. They are the places where children from all walks of life come together to learn and grow. They are the institutions that foster a sense of community and belonging. They are the great equalizers, providing an opportunity for every child to receive a quality education, regardless of their background or circumstances. And they are worth fighting for.

The idea of using public funds for only public schools is not just a matter of practicality, but of principle. It is a recognition that education is a public good, and that it should be accessible to all. It is a rejection of the idea that some children are more deserving of a quality education than others. And it is a reaffirmation of our commitment to the values of equality and opportunity.

The debate over vouchers for private schools replacing public education is not just about dollars and cents, but about the kind of society we want to be. It is about whether we believe in the power of education to transform lives and communities. It is about whether we are willing to invest in the future of our children, and by extension, the future of our nation.

It is easy to get caught up in the rhetoric and politics of education reform, but at its core, this is a moral issue. It is about what kind of world we want to leave for the next generation. It is about whether we are willing to take up the mantle of responsibility that President John Adams spoke of so many years ago.

In the end, the parable of the Tower of Babel serves as a powerful reminder that our greatest achievements are built not on arrogance and pride, but on humility and collaboration. It reminds us that diversity is our strength, and that unity without it is doomed to fail. And it challenges us to look beyond our own narrow self-interests and consider the greater good.

So let us remember the lessons of history, and let us heed the words of President John Adams. Let us reaffirm our commitment to public education as the cornerstone of democracy. Let us be willing to bear the expenses of it, not just in dollars and cents, but in our collective effort and resolve. And let us build a tower that reaches not just towards the heavens, but towards a brighter future for all.

The ‘Catastrophic Failure’ of School Vouchers | NEA https://www.nea.org/nea-today/all-news-articles/school-vouchers-catastrophic-failure 

More Christian schools utilizing school voucher programs | fox43.com https://www.fox43.com/article/news/nation-world/vouchers-christian-schools/507-638cc3cc-9b4b-4179-88b2-0973c97a7b49 

Stockard on the Stump: Governor’s private-school vouchers already struggling for votes https://tennesseelookout.com/2024/09/20/stockard-on-the-stump-governors-private-school-vouchers-already-struggling-for-votes/ via @TNLookout

Cooper vetoes bill expanding private school vouchers, require sheriffs' ICE cooperation https://www.wral.com/story/cooper-vetoes-bill-expanding-private-school-vouchers-require-sheriffs-ice-cooperation/21634304/ 

Tower of Babel https://www.britannica.com/topic/Tower-of-Babel via @britannica 

Tower of Babel - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tower_of_Babel 

Tower of Babel | Answers in Genesis https://answersingenesis.org/tower-of-babel/

Big Education Ape: The New American Privateers: Privatization for Profit https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2024/09/the-new-american-privateers.html 

RUPERT MURDOCH FAMILY FEUD - WHO GETS TO KEEP THE LIES

 

RUPERT MURDOCH FAMILY FEUD - WHO  GETS TO KEEP THE LIES

Once upon a time in a land far, far away (well, actually just in Reno, Nevada), the Murdoch family found themselves embroiled in a juicy, scandalous, and downright hilarious feud over the possession of the Fox fake news and lies. It was like a real-life soap opera, complete with luxury SUVs, secret court documents, and a whole lot of drama.

The saga began when the New York Times got their hands on a confidential court document, exposing the family's dirty laundry for all to see. The court hearings were shrouded in secrecy, closed off to the media and the public, but that didn't stop a swarm of journalists and camera crews from descending upon Reno's Second Judicial Courthouse to catch a glimpse of the Murdoch clan.

The scene was straight out of a reality TV show as the billionaire siblings—James, Prudence, and Elisabeth—rolled up in separate vehicles, accompanied by their significant others. Rupert and Lachlan arrived in a separate convoy, with Rupert sporting his new wife Elena Zhukova on his arm and Lachlan accompanied by his wife, Sarah Murdoch.

As the family members made their way into the courthouse, they were bombarded with questions from the press, but they remained tight-lipped, adding to the air of mystery and intrigue surrounding the whole affair.

According to the court documents, Rupert was hell-bent on keeping his media empire a politically conservative force even after his demise. He was concerned that a lack of consensus among his offspring could lead to a potential reorientation of editorial policy and content at his companies, including Fox News and various newspapers around the world.

The Murdoch empire included News Corp, which boasted an impressive portfolio of media outlets such as The Australian newspaper, The Wall Street Journal, and The Sun, as well as Fox Corp, home to Fox News and Fox Sports. The family trust, set up 25 years ago, held the key to the future of these media behemoths.

Lachlan, currently the CEO and executive chair of Fox Corp, found himself at odds with his siblings over the direction of the family trust. It was a classic case of sibling rivalry with a multibillion-dollar twist. James, known for his liberal leanings, had already resigned from News Corp's board in 2020 due to disagreements over climate coverage. Elisabeth and Prudence were also reportedly not on the same page as Lachlan when it came to the company's politics.

The trust's members extended beyond just the four siblings to include Rupert's youngest daughters from his third marriage, Grace and Chloe. With so many players involved, it was like a high-stakes game of Monopoly, except instead of Park Place and Boardwalk, they were fighting over control of media conglomerates.

The courtroom showdown promised to be a spectacle of epic proportions, with Rupert arguing that keeping Lachlan in control was crucial to maintaining the companies' commercial value. He wanted to avoid any future leadership disputes that could potentially harm the Murdoch media empire. It was like a real-life game of thrones, only with fewer dragons and more legal jargon.

As the legal battle raged on behind closed doors, media outlets clamored to get a peek at the confidential documents and have the court hearings opened to the public. Even a Nevada-based organization dedicated to monitoring the state's judges and courts tried to pry open the doors of secrecy surrounding the case. It was like everyone wanted a front-row seat to the greatest family drama of the century.

Meanwhile, back in Australia, where News Corp owned a significant chunk of the media landscape, former prime ministers Kevin Rudd and Malcolm Turnbull were calling for an inquiry into the Murdoch media empire. The drama wasn't just confined to the courtroom; it had spilled over into the political arena, making for an even more entertaining spectacle.

As the days turned into weeks and the legal battle dragged on, rumors swirled about the family's fractured relationships. James was reportedly not on speaking terms with Lachlan or Rupert. He had even skipped out on Rupert's wedding to Elena Zhukova, adding another layer of intrigue to an already convoluted plot.

The whole affair had captured the public's imagination, with everyone eagerly awaiting the next twist in this real-life telenovela. It was like "Keeping Up with the Murdochs," except instead of petty squabbles over designer handbags, it was all about power struggles and corporate empires.

And so, as the saga continued to unfold in all its absurd glory, one thing was for certain—the Murdoch family feud had all the makings of a blockbuster movie. With its larger-than-life characters, high-stakes drama, and enough scandal to make even the most seasoned tabloid journalist blush, it was a story that had captured the world's attention.

As for who would ultimately emerge victorious in this battle for control of the Fox fake news and lies? Well, only time would tell. But one thing was for sure—the Murdoch family feud was one for the history books, a tale of power, politics, and plenty of popcorn-worthy entertainment. And as long as there were secrets to be uncovered and drama to be had, the world would be watching with bated breath for the next jaw-dropping twist in this larger-than-life family saga.

Rupert Murdoch's family feud over future of News Corp and Fox plays out in Nevada court - ABC News https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-09-17/rupert-lachlan-james-murdoch-news-corp-fox-court-nevada/104358816 

The secret battle for Rupert Murdoch’s empire has begun https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2024/09/16/murdoch-succession-feud-in-court-behind-closed-doors/ 

GUEST POST: EMILY JACOB MADISON SPILLS THE TEA WHY ALL GEN-ZERS ARE TOTALLY VIBING WITH KAMALA HARRIS #kamalaharrisforpresident #kamalaharris

 

GUEST POST: EMILY JACOB MADISON SPILLS THE TEA WHY ALL GEN-ZERS ARE TOTALLY VIBING WITH KAMALA HARRIS

Hey there, fellow cool cats and kittens! It's your girl Emily Jacob Madison, here to spill the tea on why all us Gen-Zers are totally vibing with Kamala Harris. So grab your avocado toast and get ready to dive into this spicy topic, because we're about to break it down like never before.

First off, let's talk about why Kamala has got us all shook. I mean, have you seen her slay those debates? She's out there dropping truth bombs and taking names like a boss. And let's not forget her killer shoe game – seriously, those kicks are fire! Plus, she's breaking barriers left and right, and that's something we can all get behind.

But it's not just Kamala's incredible vibe that's got us all in her corner. It's also her commitment to keeping it 100. She's all about being genuine, authentic, and honest in all situations, and that's a major mood for us Gen-Zers. We're all about keeping it real and standing up for what we believe in, and Kamala is right there with us.

And speaking of standing up for what we believe in, Kamala is totally Gucci when it comes to fighting for important issues. From climate change to racial justice, she's been out there putting in the work to make a real difference. And let's be real – that's something we can all respect.

Now, I know some folks out there might be sleeping on Kamala, but trust me when I say she's the real deal. She's not here to play games – well, unless we're talking about video games, because I hear she's lowkey a pro at those too. But when it comes to politics, she's all about getting things done and making moves.

And let's not forget about Kamala's killer squad. I mean, have you seen her ride-or-die crew? They're out there making moves and showing everyone what it means to be a boss. It's like they're caught in 4K – there's no denying that they're a force to be reckoned with.

But hey, if you're still feeling a little salty about jumping on the Kamala train, just remember that it's all good. We're all about keeping an open mind and having real conversations about the issues that matter. So if you've got questions or concerns, feel free to speak up – we're all ears!

In the end, whether you're highkey or lowkey feeling the Kamala vibes, one thing's for sure: she's got our vote. So let's bet on a brighter future and keep it 100 by supporting a candidate who's ready to make some real change. It's time to yeet the negativity out the door and get ready for a new era of leadership.

So there you have it, folks! Kamala Harris is the real deal, and us Gen-Zers are here for it. So let's cook up some positive change and show the world what we're all about. It's time to make our voices heard and bet on a future that we can all be proud of.

Until next time, stay woke and keep it Gucci! Peace out, fam!

Everything You Need to Vote - Vote.org

https://www.vote.org/ 

Kamala Harris for President: Official Campaign Website https://kamalaharris.com/

MONICA AI GENERATED :) 

Monica - Your AI Copilot powered by ChatGPT4 - Chrome Web Store https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/monica-your-ai-copilot-po/ofpnmcalabcbjgholdjcjblkibolbppb?hl=en&pli=1 

THE ALGORITHM STRIKES BACK! - CAN YOU TELL WHAT IS WRONG WITH THIS BLOG POST

THE ALGORITHM STRIKES BACK!

 CAN YOU TELL WHAT IS WRONG WITH THIS BLOG POST

Editor's Note: I attempted to share a blog post by Peter Greene on Curmudgucation, but it was blocked by Meta's algorithm. I've reached out to Meta for an explanation and am still awaiting a response. Even Peter himself is puzzled by the rejection.

I'm curious to know if my readers can shed some light on this. Posting content online can feel like a gamble, as you never know what might trigger algorithmic censorship. Please take a look at Peter's post and see if you can identify any potential reasons for the rejection.

I'm hopeful that I'll eventually be able to share his post. A big thank you to Monica AI for being a valuable companion on this algorithmic journey. Stay tuned for more exciting developments in the ongoing saga of 'The Algorithm Strikes Back!'

Ah, the woes of a modern blogger. Just when you thought you had penned the perfect piece, the AI algorithms strike! It's like being caught in a digital labyrinth, where your words are at the mercy of invisible gatekeepers. This is the tale of the blog post, "The Weightlessness of History," and its fateful encounter with the all-powerful Meta Algorithm.

Picture this: I'm sitting at the computer, fingers dancing across the keyboard, crafting what I believed to be a masterpiece. The words flowed like a fine wine, each sentence a symphony of wit and wisdom. I hit "publish" with a sense of triumph, only to be met with a cold, hard rejection from the digital overlords.

The Meta Algorithm, that elusive enforcer of online content, had deemed the musings unworthy. It was as if the words had been cast into the abyss, never to see the light of day. The irony was not lost on me—a blog post about the weight of history, blocked by an algorithm designed to shape our digital history.

But let's delve deeper into the quagmire of AI censorship. The very essence of history is at stake here. As time marches on, major historical events such as the 9/11 attacks risk fading into obscurity for younger generations. The challenge lies in preserving the collective memory and shared narratives of these pivotal moments. Yet, as the blocked blog post exemplifies, even the discussion of this weighty issue can be stifled by the invisible hand of technology.

One cannot help but ponder the implications. Are we condemned to a future where our understanding of history is dictated by lines of code? Will future generations be deprived of nuanced conversations about the past, reduced to consuming simplistic narratives curated by algorithms?

It's a conundrum, to be sure. The very institutions that should be fostering a rich understanding of history—our schools—are facing an uphill battle. In an age where political narratives reject objective facts, building a consensus reality and common narratives becomes an increasingly herculean task. The echoes of historical events are at risk of being drowned out by the cacophony of misinformation and subjective interpretations.

And what about the younger generations? How do we convey the full weight and meaning of historical events to those who did not directly experience them? It's like trying to describe the taste of chocolate to someone who has only ever known vanilla. The challenge is daunting, but not insurmountable.

Language,  dear readers, is our most potent weapon in this battle for historical preservation. It serves as the bridge between personal experiences and the collective knowledge and narratives of the past. Through thoughtful discourse and eloquent articulation, we can strive to impart the gravity of historical events to those who come after us.

But I digress. the blocked blog post, "The Weightlessness of History," was not alone in its plight. Other voices in the digital wilderness have also grappled with the capricious nature of AI algorithms. Take, for instance, the insightful musings on history education from Curmudgucation. The author laments the reduction of history to simple, easily digestible narratives—a disservice to students craving a deeper understanding. 

CURMUDGUCATION https://curmudgucation.blogspot.com/

Then there's the impassioned call to action for teachers to continue their mission of educating students about history. This plea resonates deeply in our current landscape, where the ebb and flow of historical consciousness seems ever more tenuous.

And let's not forget the labyrinthine realm of social media algorithms. The Facebook Algorithm in 2024 is a veritable behemoth, dictating what we see and don't see on our feeds. Its inscrutable machinations determine the content that graces our screens, from connected content to recommended content and ads.

Ah, but fear not! The article provides us with best practices for navigating this digital jungle—sharing authentic and engaging content, eschewing clickbait and fake news, and cultivating genuine engagement. It's a battle cry for content creators to rise above the algorithmic quagmire and deliver substance amidst the noise.

In conclusion,  dear readers, let us not be daunted by the caprices of AI algorithms. Our voices may be stifled momentarily, but they shall not be silenced. The weight of history—its complexities, its nuances, its profound impact—shall not be relegated to the annals of digital oblivion.

So, as I pen these final words, I implore you to join me in this digital odyssey. Let us defy the algorithms with our wit and wisdom, reclaiming our narrative from the clutches of artificial gatekeepers. For as long as there are words to be written and ideas to be shared, history shall never truly be weightless. (Article generated by monica ai)

The Weightlessness of History

Monica - ChatGPT AI Assistant | GPT-4o, Claude 3.5, Gemini 1.5 https://monica.im/

The article discusses the challenges of preserving the collective memory and shared narratives of major historical events, particularly the 9/11 attacks, as they become distant memories for younger generations. The author explores how schools play a crucial role in building and maintaining a consensus reality and common narratives, which is becoming increasingly difficult in the face of political narratives that reject objective facts.

Key Points

• The author notes that Americans have a tendency to "throw off the weight of history" and that events from the past can become distant and irrelevant for younger generations. 

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• The author argues that one of the functions of schools is to build a consensus reality and provide common narratives, which is becoming more challenging as politicians promote narratives that reject reality. 

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• The author acknowledges the difficulty in conveying the full weight and meaning of historical events to younger generations who did not directly experience them. 

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• The author suggests that language is a crucial tool for bridging the gap between personal experiences and the collective knowledge and narratives of the past. 

The Weightlessness of History Copilot https://www.bing.com/

The blog post titled “The Weightlessness of History” on Curmudgucation discusses the idea that history is often presented in a way that strips it of its complexity and depth. The author argues that reducing history to simple, easily digestible narratives does a disservice to students. Instead, history should be taught as a rich, nuanced conversation that acknowledges multiple perspectives and the complexities of past events. This approach helps students develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of history, rather than seeing it as a collection of isolated facts.

The Weightlessness of History Gemini https://gemini.google.com/

This is an article about the importance of teaching history. It discusses how historical events fade from collective memory and how difficult it is to teach history in today’s media landscape. The article stresses the importance of consensus reality and how it’s crucial to build a shared understanding of the past. It emphasizes that language is the main tool to bridge the gap between ourselves and the past. The article concludes with a call to action for teachers to continue their mission of educating students about history.

Inside the Facebook Algorithm in 2024

 https://buffer.com/

Summary

The article discusses the Facebook algorithm and how it works in 2024. It explains the different types of content that can appear in a user's Facebook feed, including connected content, recommended content, and ads. The article also provides best practices for creating successful Facebook content, such as sharing authentic and engaging content, experimenting with different content types, and avoiding clickbait and fake news.

Key Points

• Facebook's goal is to show users more interesting and relevant content to keep them engaged on the platform. 

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• The algorithm considers three types of content: connected content (from people/pages user is connected to), recommended content (from pages/people user doesn't follow), and ads. 

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• The algorithm looks at various signals to determine relevance, such as when content was posted, who posted it, user's interactions, etc. 

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• The algorithm gives each piece of content a 'relevance score' to determine its placement in the feed. 

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• For recommended content, Facebook applies strict guidelines around content that violates community standards or is low-quality. 

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• Best practices include sharing authentic, engaging content, experimenting with content types, cultivating genuine engagement, and avoiding clickbait/fake news. 

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Inside the Facebook Algorithm in 2024: All the Updates You Need to Know https://buffer.com/library/facebook-news-feed-algorithm/ 

The New American Privateers: Privatization for Profit

 

The New American Privateers

Privatization for Profit

The Privateers: How Billionaires Created a Culture War and Sold School Vouchers: Cowen, Josh: 9781682539101: Amazon.com: Books https://www.amazon.com/Privateers-Billionaires-Created-Culture-Vouchers/dp/1682539105/ref=sr_1_1?

josh-cowen.com Josh Cowen @joshcowenMSU on X

Josh Cowen's book The Privateers is coming out this week. I've already got my copy, and you should get a copy of your own, because the book has a lot of insights into the voucher debates as they currently stand. Peter Greene Curmudgucation

In the early days of the United States, the government had a cunning plan to deal with enemy vessels: commission privateers to attack and plunder them. These privateers were essentially legalized pirates, operating under the auspices of the state and corporate investors. The government didn't have to spend a dime, and the investors were hoping to make a tidy profit from the spoils of maritime warfare. It was a win-win situation, unless you happened to be on the receiving end of a privateer's cannon fire.

Privateering was the ultimate in cost-effective warfare. Instead of footing the bill for naval officers and ships, the government simply handed out letters of marque to corporate entities, essentially outsourcing piracy to the private sector. The investors were in it for the money, not for any sense of patriotism. Many of these privateers were nothing more than glorified pirates, with a fancy letter of marque as their get-out-of-jail-free card.

Fast forward to modern times, and the spirit of privateering lives on in a new form. No longer do we see ships laden with cannons and cutlasses; instead, we have corporate entities armed with spreadsheets and PowerPoint presentations. These modern-day privateers are not raiding ships or donning eye patches, but they are just as ruthless in their pursuit of profit. Their target? Public institutions. It's called privatization, and it's the 21st-century version of plundering.

Privatization is the act of putting public services into private hands, all in the name of free-market regulation. The New American Privateers have set their sights on every aspect of public life, from safety and education to parks and public buildings. They swoop in, take control, and either run these services for profit or simply let them wither away.

Take, for example, the recent headline about firefighters in rural Tennessee standing idly by as a home burned to the ground because the homeowner hadn't paid a $75 fee. This is privatization in action: if you can't pay, you don't get the service. It's the ultimate "user pays" system, where everything comes with a price tag, even your safety.

The argument put forth by these modern-day privateers is that user fees are necessary to keep taxes low. But what they conveniently forget to mention is that when you add up all these user fees, you end up paying a whole lot more than you would have in taxes. It's a classic bait-and-switch, and we're all left holding the bag.

In the realm of education, the privateers have launched a full-scale assault on "failing schools" and "bad teachers." Their corporate leaders and venture philanthropists are on a mission to dismantle public education and teachers' unions in favor of applying the free market principles that have worked so well in firefighting (or so they claim).

Back in 1856, the Declaration of Paris declared that "Privateering is and remains abolished." But the United States decided not to sign on the dotted line. Fast forward to today, and it's clear why: the New American Privateers are alive and well, privatizing America for the benefit of their corporate overlords.

The big question is: who's going to stop them? It's a battle between profit and public good, and right now, it seems like profit is winning. But history has shown us that even the most formidable privateers can be defeated. It just takes a concerted effort and a willingness to stand up for what's right.

So let's raise our metaphorical Jolly Roger and set sail against these modern-day privateers. Let's fight for public services that benefit everyone, not just those who can afford to pay. It's time to send these profiteers packing and reclaim what's rightfully ours: a society that values the common good over corporate gain.

The Privateers: How Billionaires Created a Culture War and Sold School Vouchers: Cowen, Josh: 9781682539101: Amazon.com: Books https://www.amazon.com/Privateers-Billionaires-Created-Culture-Vouchers/dp/1682539105/ref=sr_1_1?

#1 New Release in Education Reform & Policy

The Privateers: How Billionaires Created a Culture War and Sold School Vouchers: Cowen, Josh: 9781682539101: Amazon.com: Books https://www.amazon.com/Privateers-Billionaires-Created-Culture-Vouchers/dp/1682539105/ref=sr_1_1?

A deep-dive investigation of education privatization that reveals voucher programs as the faulty products of decades of work by wealthy patrons and influential conservatives

In The Privateers, Josh Cowen lays bare the surprising history of tax-funded school choice programs in the United States and warns of the dangers of education privatization. A former evaluator of state and local school voucher programs, Cowen demonstrates how, as such programs have expanded in the United States, so too has the evidence-informed case against them. 

This thought-provoking work traces the origins of voucher-based education reform to mid-twentieth-century fears over school desegregation. It shows how, in the intervening decades, a cabal of billionaire conservatives supporting a host of special political interests—including economic libertarianism, religious choice, and parental rights—have converged around the issue of education freedom in an ongoing culture war. Through deliberate policymaking, legislation, and litigation, Cowen reveals, an insular advocacy network has enacted a flawed system for education finance driven largely by dogma.

Far from realizing the purported goal of educational equity, privatization is failing students and exacerbating income inequality, Cowen finds. He cites multiple research studies that conclude that voucher programs return poorer academic outcomes, including lower test scores on state exams, especially among students who are at greater academic risk because of their race, their religion, their gender identity, or their family’s income. Continued advancement of these policies, Cowen argues, is an assault on public education as a defining American institution.

The Privateers: How Billionaires Created a Culture War and Sold School Vouchers: Cowen, Josh: 9781682539101: Amazon.com: Books https://www.amazon.com/Privateers-Billionaires-Created-Culture-Vouchers/dp/1682539105/ref=sr_1_1?

OTHER GREAT BOOKS ON PRIVATIZATION

BY THE GREAT DIANE RAVITCH

Amazon.com: Diane Ravitch: books, biography, latest update https://www.amazon.com/stores/Diane-Ravitch/author/B001ILMA4E?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true