Preserving and Strengthening the Concept of Justice (Philosophical Thought Experiment)

While we may be drawn to well-functioning systems that serve society and uphold essential values, these ideals often collapse where hate and corruption prevail—particularly when distorted by clan-based loyalties. It becomes deeply concerning if one uses power inappropriate to reward their friends, distorted beliefs, or seek to create specific groups of people who benefit. When hate and corruption are mixed together one might find that defauts start to occur. To understand and explore the idea we are utilizing a hypothetical thought experiment of one explanation/model of corruption and hate as comingled factors. 

In these metaphorical “Stephen King” worlds of third-world-style justice, systemic breakdowns are all too common: insiders are protected or rewarded despite misconduct, while outsiders are swiftly and immorally punished—especially when there is something to be gained from their harm (i.e. in our example those who are seen as local and those not but being underpinned by a narrow slice of life perspective.). When hate and corruption infect the decision-making process, the purpose of law begins to unravel. Long-term consequences and the sanctity of legal frameworks are cast aside, replaced by personal or factional agendas.

For the sake of reflection, let us imagine a system devoid of checks and balances—one where clans dominate, victims are intentionally targeted, and justice is selectively applied. If such behavior is tolerated or encouraged, what does that say about the future of our society? (philosophy and science should match here). When a small group holds more rights and privileges than the collective population, the implications are alarming. To ignore the risks of this emerging philosophical reality is to neglect our duty to protect institutions meant to serve the many, not the few.

No matter how much harm is done, those complicit often fail to defend the uphold certain social contracts that a minority of people may not agree with (We may have a Constitution and other artifict that define what they mean.). The most meaningful response to entrenched hate and corruption is to recognize it—with a certain compassion—because only those trapped in their own cultural or ideological conditioning could justify dismantling trust for personal gain. Though their actions may be steeped in corruption, society is increasingly aware of the harm being done.

Ironically, hate and corruption can be instructive. By showing us their destructive nature, they reveal what is truly good and essential in leadership and governance. They underscore the importance of rules, institutions, and the social contract. People of integrity, across backgrounds and beliefs, will uphold these standards for the common good as something they all believe in. Those lacking in ethical maturity often resort to legal manipulation, weakening institutions for social, political, or economic benefit. If public trust continues to erode while such behaviors occur, it will not be by accident—it will be the result of intentional moral failures (In other words, once you are aware you cannot be unaware and therefore supporting poor behaviors and social contract violations are willful).

This moment should be recorded in our story as one of high and low choices. Yet, those who still believe in a greater good—who support institutions and strive to improve them—will continue to pursue excellence. Corruption and hate remain the enemies of justice and effective governance. It is a moral imperative to climb to the next rung of integrity and accountability. As a people we have something to gain or loose based on how we draw or detract societal buy in. Wise people always adapt and improve where warranted while less developed people make choices for lower order gains.

While many may view themselves as part of a larger collective ideal, some do not. That is why they may be willing to openly violate fundamental values, spread rumors, block individuals from employment, ostracize others, endanger children, manipulate the elderly, and engage in patterned behaviors that suggest these actions have long been part of their playbook. In our learning example, justice was not served. Instead, hate and corruption prevailed, and in the absence of accountability, victims were dehumanized. They are left with no recourse that doesn’t lead to further harm and aggression. All the checks and balances are gone....

And yet depite the minority of rascals that misuse institutional purpose, most people do the right thing. They act with integrity, they work honorably, and they contribute meaningfully to society (The vast majority of officials being good and kind people with the right intent toward others.). A small number may undermine trust and fairness, which is precisely why functioning checks and balances are essential. Without them, we may one day find ourselves, as in this example, with no defense against misconduct. The case illustrates what happens when individuals are dehumanized—based on race, religion, politics, or social networks—and excluded from the protections of justice.

In response, we must remain positive, polite, and persistent—grounding ourselves in moral and strategic clarity. As society progresses, ignorance will give way to greater awareness and light. We will choose to write a better ending—one that benefits the greatest number of people. We must only envision what our forefathers/mothers intended and that is full human suffrage. Those who swear oaths to the highest principles know what is on the table and will support that which protects those generation to generation principles that define us. Let us write the narrative of our futures well and with reflective insight. 

*This is part of a philosophical theoretical thought experiment on how to preserve and strengthen ceretain democratic underlining principles that encourage strong economic and social resilience. Take with a grain of salt. It is for learning purposes and we will write in a positive end. Feel free to leave a comment.

Can You Spend Your Way Into Happiness?

Could you imagine being able to spend your way into happiness? While we’re all subject to the allure of marketing, most of us eventually run into the limits of our resources. Wealthier individuals often learn to save and invest, while those with fewer financial options may spend more out of necessity. That doesn’t mean the poor are careless—it often takes everything they have just to maintain a basic level of dignity.

But for those in the middle, there may be more room to reflect on how and where they spend their money. Striking the right balance between spending and saving can lead to a happier, more fulfilling life. (You might already be happy—but maybe you could be even happier.)

It's important to acknowledge that all studies have limitations. For example, definitions of "spenders" and "savers" can vary depending on how inclusive or exclusive the criteria are. Still, recent findings offer valuable insight: spending on things you genuinely enjoy can make sense.

According to a Nasdaq article titled Americans Who Spend Money Are Happier Than Those That Save It — Is There a Healthy Compromise?:

• Spenders report higher levels of happiness in work, life, relationships, and finances compared to non-spenders.

• "Spenders" are defined as those who buy things they truly enjoy, not just essentials or items on sale.

Some Reflections

There’s no point in penny-pinching every dollar unless you have a specific goal. You can’t take money with you when you go. At the same time, don’t fall into the trap of overspending on things that bring fleeting satisfaction or long-term financial strain. You don't want to be in debt your whole life. 

Before making a purchase, ask yourself: Is this truly necessary? Is it worth it?

For example, buying a large house when a mid-sized one would do can stretch your finances unnecessarily. Sure, it might offer long-term value, but the utility-to-cost ratio may not make sense if your goal is to pay off your home early. This logic applies to many other areas of spending.

Ultimately, it often takes a lifestyle shift to align your resources with your happiness goals—without digging yourself into financial distress. Do you really need five subscription services? A brand-new car?

In my case, I want to travel more. So, I’m working to minimize debt and reduce overhead. Right now, I’m down to just a house payment—and I’d like that to go away too. You may want to read Creating a Personal Budget

Delta County Board of Commissioners MI Special Meeting (6/10/2025): A discussion on hiring

 A discussion on hiring related to candidates, pay and opinions. 

Veteran Owned Businesses Can Obtain Surplus DOD Equipment

You're a veteran who owns a business, but you're facing a challenge: you need equipment, yet you don't want to take on a costly loan and may have limited capital. However, you still require quality tools to keep your business running effectively.

Fortunately, veteran-owned businesses have options. One such opportunity is through the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), which, thanks to the Veterans Small Business Enhancement Act of 2018 (Public Law 115-416), allows eligible veteran business owners to obtain equipment and other property at no cost.

The Act:

"Amends the Small Business Act to direct the SBA to provide access to and manage the distribution of U.S.-owned surplus property. This is made possible through a memorandum of agreement between the SBA, the General Services Administration (GSA), and state agencies for surplus property. The program includes access to foreign excess property returned to a state for distribution as surplus property, specifically for small businesses owned and controlled by veterans."

The program has been gaining traction. To date, approximately 130,000 pieces of former military equipment—valued at around $152 million—have been donated to qualifying veteran-owned businesses and organizations.

Useful Links:

1. Small Business Administration
2. Veteran Small Business Could Seek DOD Surplus Equipment

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*Part of a project

Study Shows PFAS at Elevated Levels in Firefighters and Healthcare Workers

Firefighting is an inherently hazardous profession, and both paid and volunteer firefighters face additional health risks due to exposure to materials containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These substances are commonly found in fire retardants and foam suppressants. Reducing PFAS exposure is essential for lowering the risk of serious health issues, including cancer and other diseases.

A recent study provides insight into the long-term presence of PFAS in the bloodstream. It found that healthcare workers and firefighters have significantly elevated PFAS levels compared to the general population. Health care workers, firefighters have increased PFAS levels, study finds

• The study observed a 6% to 17% decline in PFAS levels over a three-year period, yet levels remained elevated.

• The research included 1,960 participants, including 280 firefighters, 787 healthcare workers, and 734 other essential workers.

For more information on how firefighters are exposed—particularly through dust and firefighting foams—refer to the report on PFAS Firefighter Exposure.

*Part of another project. 

Judicial Systems and Corruption ( A Philosophical Discussion)

Climbing toward a higher moral
order

For systems to function effectively and maintain long-term health and public trust, it is essential to uphold the highest possible performance standards. Ethics and integrity are foundational to the development and sustainability of any society. When corruption infiltrates institutions, it brings with it a host of social and economic problems.

In our philosophical and theoretical exploration, we’ve examined how hate and corruption can deeply affect society. In one example, employment and personal networks were manipulated to exploit and harm others for financial and social gain. These actions were not isolated—they were widespread and protected by a clan-aligned judge. In this case, the law ceased to be a tool of justice and instead became a mechanism for enforcing ideologies of hate and shielding wrongdoers, ensuring that only a select few benefited from the system. Some perpetrators were even coached on how to inflict maximum harm. Laws, rules, and basic social contracts were rendered meaningless—whistleblowers faced retaliation, and minorities were placed on secretive lists for targeted mistreatment.

While the majority of people acted in good faith, a small but powerful minority repeatedly engaged in unethical behavior, often insulated by a judiciary that prioritized appeasement of certain ideologies over justice. This dehumanized entire groups and undermined the rule of law.

However, improvements began to emerge when individuals challenged this wrongdoing. Years of decline reversed in proportion to the amount of change. Although clan members remained largely silent, they continued shielding each other from full accountability. Some were replaced, leading to measurable progress—hypothetically reflected in a declining corruption index. Yet some corrupt officials remained in place, suggesting that the broader system of checks and balances still needed reform.

This example illustrates the critical role that integrity plays in establishing systems that foster trust and sustainable development. A thought-provoking article on judicial corruption recently highlighted the profound risks such corruption poses to society. It also emphasized the importance of implementing strong checks and balances that align institutions with widely shared societal values—particularly in times of declining trust and increasing economic pressure.

The deep interconnection between economics, institutional health, social development, and fundamental human and civil rights is well documented in academic literature. While systems of accountability may exist in name, their effectiveness can vary dramatically. This raises important questions: How does change reflect underlying beliefs? How does resistance to change reveal entrenched ideologies? And perhaps most importantly—what are the best ways to cultivate and encourage a higher moral order?

Judicial Systems and Corruption

*A hypothetical learning example for philosophical discussion. 

Leaders Can Help Teams Create a Vision and Offer the Steps That Get People to Enact Those Visions

Teams are among the most effective ways to achieve organizational goals. While individuals can accomplish much on their own, leveraging the power of teams allows for greater impact by drawing on diverse knowledge, perspectives, and ideas. Executives who excel at managing teams tend to drive better outcomes and enhance overall organizational performance. This is where the power of vision becomes essential.

A vision offers a way of understanding the world—a mental model that connects specific actions to meaningful, beneficial outcomes. Strong leaders not only grasp this narrative but can also communicate it clearly, along with the strategic steps required to bring it to life.

A compelling vision, paired with actionable strategy, significantly increases employee engagement. When a vision resonates with people’s deeper motivations and provides a practical roadmap forward, it focuses their energy and commitment on shared goals.

In my experience, visions must be reasonable, improve people’s lives, and be worthy of their effort. A vision combined with concrete steps becomes both the pitch and the path. As leaders, it is our responsibility to craft visions that benefit the greatest number of people—motivating them to collaborate and contribute meaningfully. Everyone should be able to see their role within it.

Developing a Shared Vision