Land and the Moral Cost of Corruption (Hypothetical Thought Experiment on Hate and Corruption)

Land is an attractive commodity for anyone seeking to diversify and balance their portfolio. Beyond its economic value, it carries social significance—tied to perceptions of wealth, status, and power. As a tangible and coveted asset, people are often willing to compromise their values to obtain it. At its core, corruption is precisely that: a compromise of integrity in favor of wealth or perceived gain.

Often, the desire to appear “special” through outward displays of wealth seeps into one’s mindset, reinforcing a delusion rooted in socially constructed values. To counter this, whistleblowers occasionally emerge to advocate for a higher moral order. However, these individuals are frequently met with retaliation, as their revelations threaten entrenched dysfunctions and collective illusions.

We’ve used a hypothetical philosophical thought experiment to highlight how clan-based systems tend to reward unethical behaviors. These systems prioritize loyalty to the group over respect for the purpose of law. Prestige, power, and internal cohesion are preserved at the cost of justice and accountability.

The most troubling aspect isn't merely that individuals engage in illicit acts for personal gain—it’s that others willfully participate in or enable these actions to reinforce their own distorted perceptions of superiority, even at the expense of others. When victims come forward and communities publicly challenge corruption, the moral backbone of the system may sometimes be too weak to address the wrongdoing. In such cases, victims are left without recourse, and social contracts are broken without consequence.

A higher moral order would not only install checks and balances as a sign of a healthy society but also foster greater respect for shared values, oaths, and foundational artifacts—such as the Constitution as an example. Institutional trust depends on serving the interests of all people, and the integrity of leadership is central to the long-term social and economic success of communities.

Improper land procurement and other corrupt acts often arise from a mix of official authority, social connections, and flawed self-perceptions. Corruption, in any form, is a reflection of how individuals perceive themselves and their need to assert status through wealth. When you challenge these false perceptions—or corruption itself—you risk becoming a target of retaliation and deeply irrational behavior.

An interesting article on Curbing Land Corruption

*This is based in a hypothetical thought experiment on hate and corruption for learning so take with a grain of salt. It is meant to be philosophical by nature to explore such topics. 

Working on the Hunker Junker Restoration Auto Project

The Hunker Junker Restoration: “Gupster Gangsta Wagon” / “Gup’s Gas Guzzling Get-Around Go-Cart”
(Still thinking of a good name 🤔)

Took the panels off and 
fixed the latch and speaker.
Put it back together cleaner
than it came.

The restoration project is coming along nicely, and I expect it to take about a year to complete. So far, I’ve tackled a number of repairs and upgrades: windows, door locks, tire stems, speakers, HVAC blower, windshield washer pump, exhaust patch, windshield wipers, and a high-mileage oil change—all done.

Next on the list: install brighter headlights, paint the hood, deep-clean the upholstery, hand-clean the engine (a great chance to inspect things closely), and grease all the necessary components.

Fortunately, I’ve got access to a garage, which lets me work on it piece by piece alongside other projects like home repairs and various hobbies. As I get older, I find I need fewer things—but I care more about how I spend my time. It’s less about impressing others and more about simplifying life and building my own little EscaCabo oasis.

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Car Restoration Goals

I’ve been reading up on different levels of car restoration. For me, the goal is to make the car both reliable for daily driving and attractive enough for local car shows. I picked it up for just $1,000, and so far I’ve spent about $600 more on taxes, electronics, lighting, painting supplies, misc. My plan is to cap the investment at around $2,000 beyond the purchase price.

The real win? The resale value for an average-condition car like this is already much higher—so the project has actually appreciated in value (most cars lose value). This experience has even made me reconsider ever buying a new car again. Between high monthly payments and insurance costs, it might be better to rent for long trips and keep a well-maintained ride like this for everyday use.

Ideal Classic Car Restoration Levels

Escanaba City Council Meeting (June 5th, 2025)-Master Plans, Labor Day Beer, Northtown Party, 411, Softball and Librarians!

Escanaba is a vibrant and thriving gem located just beyond the bay and slightly to the north on the Great Lakes. As a town undergoing a remarkable reemergence, those who’ve been paying attention have witnessed a transformational change over the past few years. With Escanaba, Gladstone, and Delta County beginning to formalize a shared vision, their coordinated efforts are poised to maximize regional opportunities.

Today, Escanaba is increasingly known as a fun, investment-friendly, digital nomad leaning and entrepreneurial community—unique when compared to almost any other town in the country (and perhaps even the world).

The Great Lakes and the waterfront charm of both Escanaba and Gladstone offer distinct advantages. In addition to major infrastructure updates—such as enhanced T1 internet lines, improved roads, and upgraded utilities—there has been growing interest in both industrial development and vacation-related investments. 

For those interested in thoughtful development, the "Smart Growth for Waterfront Communities" guide is well worth a read. Smart Growth for Water Front Communities

A Few Notes:

Escanaba City Council Meeting (June 5th, 2026). You can read and watch other meetings at Escanaba City Council Meetings

Planning Commission & Master Plan – Ongoing discussions about future growth and community planning.

Workers’ Compensation – Reviewed and discussed updates to current policies.

Labor Day Parade & Beer Tent – A festive tradition returns!

RNN Block Party – Celebration in full swing—yippie!

Northtown Block Party – North Towners know how to party! 🥳

Social District Applications – New applications reviewed to boost local vibrancy.

Energy Waste Reduction Program - Daily Press-City Prepares for New Electric and 2025 Energy Waste Reduction

Police Equipment Updates – Ensuring our force is well-equipped.

411 Reporting System – A potential crime-reduction tool. Creating a trend-based complaint log could help identify and address recurring issues. [411 Tip Article]

Public Safety Recruitment – Officers are working hard to fight drug-related crime. If you’re qualified and interested in helping the community, check out [Escanaba Open Positions]. More good men and women are needed.

Librarian & Board Openings – You never know what adventures await when you become one of the "Librarians"! Openings also available on the Historic, Housing, and Planning Commission boards.

Escanaba Softball – Congratulations to the team for making it to the semi-finals! (According to a news article I think they won regional. Congrats!)

Food, Fitness, and Finding Balance

 

Mediterranean
 Food

Food and water are essentials for all of us, and exercise plays a key role in strengthening both our muscles and cardiovascular system. When you combine nutritious, high-quality food with a well-rounded fitness routine—including strength training, stretching, and cardio—you can make significant strides toward better overall health.

Since eating habits are often the biggest factor in weight gain and obesity, that’s the focus of this post.

I spent a couple of months eating more or less whatever I wanted, just to observe the effects. The results were clear: I gained weight quickly. But when I switched to healthier alternatives—more salads and clean options—I noticed the weight began to drop. Pairing that with a moderate fitness routine made a noticeable difference.

When I was more disciplined, working out vigorously and carefully watching my food intake, the results were even more dramatic: improved muscle tone and a slimmer waistline.

That said, it can be tough to maintain an athlete-level routine if your goal is simply to live healthfully while still enjoying life. I’ve been part of the “gym rat” club many times, but now I focus on sustainable habits that support long-term wellness.

Here’s what I aim for:

• Plenty of vegetables and fiber

• Clean meats and fish

• Lower-calorie options

• Smaller portions

• Fruits and water

• Medium to complex carbohydrates

• High-protein foods

• Antioxidants

• An exercise routine that improves overall fitness without increasing the risk of injury

I’ve engaged in fitness training off and on over the years and hold a license in the field. If you’re interested in fitness coaching—either in-person (limited location) or virtual—feel free to reach out in the contact.form to the right.

Critical Thinking and the Role of Devil’s Advocate in Business Decision-Making

Critical thinking and the intentional use of Devil’s Advocate perspectives play a vital role in effective business decision-making. Within any management team, personality dynamics and power structures often shape discussions, influence the exploration of solutions, affect how resources are allocated, and ultimately determine strategic outcomes.

Let’s explore a common scenario:
A company has been steadily losing market share for several years. Its operations have grown increasingly inefficient and ineffective. Retaining existing customers has become difficult, and upselling new products or services to them is even more challenging.

In response, the executive team gathers to develop a turnaround strategy. However, based on established group dynamics, the same dominant voices steer the conversation. While other executives may not openly express their concerns, they understand that offering dissenting views or alternative solutions is typically dismissed—and doing so could jeopardize their careers. This unspoken social rule limits innovation, discourages critical thought, and sidelines perspectives that might be better aligned with current industry trends.

A company that resists new ideas and fresh thinking is unlikely to survive—let alone thrive—in a fast-paced environment characterized by rapid technological change and innovation.

Driving Transformation with Thoughtful Leadership

Organizational transformation requires:

• Fresh insights

• Rigorous critical thinking

• Evidence-based decision-making

• In-depth market analysis

While having the right executive skills is important, it’s equally—if not more—critical to have the right personalities and group dynamics in place.

Practical Strategies to Enhance Decision-Making

To foster better decisions and more resilient strategies, companies should implement processes that:

• Encourage open, candid discussions

• Evaluate the practicality and potential of new ideas

• Include structured Devil’s Advocate roles to challenge assumptions

Tips for Building a Smarter Decision-Making Culture:

• Actively seek out and consider alternative perspectives

• Create cognitively diverse teams with a variety of backgrounds

• Randomly assign Devil’s Advocate roles in meetings to challenge prevailing opinions

• Intentionally explore feasible alternative outcomes until their logical conclusions

• Review external trends and internal capabilities before finalizing key decisions

• Run strategic ideas by mid- and lower-level management to refine implementation and uncover additional insights

• Rotate executives through decision-making groups to promote fresh thinking and reduce echo chambers

By implementing these practices into the organization, companies can significantly improve their decision-making processes, adapt to change more effectively, and position themselves for long-term success.

Delta County MI Commissioners Meeting (06/03/25): Hiring, Inspections, and Botony Kayaks

Delta County is increasingly gaining recognition as a prime destination for investment, development, and quality-of-life enhancements.

In recent years, community stakeholders have shown a strong commitment to shaping the county into one of the best places to live, work, create, play, celebrate, and pursue greater economic and social opportunity. 

A number of positive initiatives are taking root, forming a model that other communities are beginning to observe and consider. Attending or viewing county and local government meetings offers valuable insight into the region’s direction and ongoing progress.

A helpful resource to explore is the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA), which provides best practices in public finance and governance.

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Key Topics and Recent Developments:

• County Administrator Search: The board approved extending an offer for the County Administrator position—a major step in a long-running recruitment process.

• Parks Manager Hiring: An offer has been extended for a Parks Manager role to enhance recreation programming and guide land use planning.

• FAA Inspection Updates: Ongoing compliance reviews and infrastructure assessments related to aviation operations.

• Property Sales and Easement Issues: Continued discussions about property transactions, including easement concerns and purchase negotiations.

• Staffing Proposal: Consideration of transitioning a current inspector from part-time to full-time status.

• Inmate Cost Reductions: A notable decline in inmate-related costs is having a positive impact on the county budget.

• Drain Commission Update: Discussion on drain maintenance and inspection.

• Grant Opportunities: NorthCare Network prospects—more information available at northcarenetwork.org.

• Recreational Equipment and Botany Program: Decisions regarding the retention of kayaks and botany initiatives.

• Zoning and Permitting: Discussions and concerns.

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The Importance of Ethics Education in Minimizing the Impact of Corruption (Philosophical Thought Experiment)

Corruption profoundly impacts any economy where it takes root. Because it is often deeply embedded within certain groups, challenging and overcoming such unethical behavior is especially difficult. Beyond the difficulty of uncovering corruption, there are frequently insufficient resources or a lack of moral will to address it, despite the significant costs of inaction.

Corruption is more than a moral failing; it directly undermines the economic engine. For example, an economy with a 10% corruption rate is likely to experience compounded decline over time. Therefore, even reducing corruption by half could substantially boost local wealth and improve the efficient use of public services.

It is important to remember that taxes belong to the people, not to any individual official or entity. We entrust leaders to manage these funds responsibly, so when they betray public trust, they compound harm to society. Moreover, when social networks misuse authority to enrich themselves, it represents a theft of both trust and resources.

In a philosophical thought experiment, we see moral issues arising from choices made to enrich oneself or close associates, actions taken against constitutional principles, and failures to adapt when necessary. Victims of past injustices continue to emerge—many of which could have been avoided through ethical behavior and critical thinking.

(Note that this example centers on hate and corruption, where bias aligns with self-interested decision-making and self-perceptions that incentivize corrupt behavior. Our discussion should also acknowledge how cult-like social beliefs and clan loyalty contribute to distorted groupthink. That could have a real impact on the environment.)

One of the most effective ways to combat corruption is through education—teaching people how corruption operates, how to resist it, and why core values matter. Though those who teach ethics may not always be celebrated in a winner-takes-all world, society fundamentally depends on individuals who ensure that authority and resources serve the best interests of communities.

Below, you will find an insightful article exploring the relationship between education and corruption.

Education and Corruption

*This is a hypothetical philsophical thought experiment on exploring and understanding corruption and its impact on the social and economic life of people. Perhaps in the next article we can talk about land and how corruption might work in those circumstances.