Notices by robert_r_freitag_ii@mastodon.social

@fribbledom

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n-Bfkc6lZok

@tagomago Cynical? Maybe. But also accurate.

@tagomago Yeah--because they're coerced. Because there will always be some meathead out there with a gun. Which is why you need a gun.

Yes, it would be rational if we all just lived in peace and harmony. But humans are not rational. That fantasy will never come to pass.

@tagomago
Don't fool yourself into thinking that people will just spontaneously "do the right thing". If that were even a remote possibility we wouldn't be in the situation we are today.

@tagomago Exactly my point.

@tagomago "Power abhors a vacuum".

Don't make the mistake in thinking humans are rational actors. Only 13 year olds believe that it possible.

@tagomago @Gargron I think that our positions have some overlap, but my considerations are maybe more pragmatic than idealistic. I'm concerned mostly about the ability of the West to effectively oppose Putin with an alienated, cynical and demoralized population rather than a principled stand against violence on principle.

@Gargron I've reached a similar conclusion. But I also understand the domestic issues that have led to a lack of support for NATO and the US. It's really a horrible situation all the way around. Which I guess is why Putin picked this time to do this, when the West is weakened by a corrupt and incompetent leadership.