The Clan: A Thought Experiment on Corruption, Social Cohesion, and Economic Futures (Hypothetical Thought Experiment on Hate and Corruption)

Good citizens have long been understood as those who stand for justice and the protection of communal well-being. When corruption and hate permeate decision-making processes, they generate significant risks for future victims, while simultaneously imposing economic costs that constrain growth and undermine the long-term health of communities. The following discussion—referred to here as The Clan—serves as a hypothetical, philosophical, and theoretical thought experiment aimed at identifying mechanisms for social improvement where hate and corruption has left a mark.

Representing societal wisdom and light.
Platos cave. 
Chains of mental slavery.

It is necessary to acknowledge the persistence of bad actors within society. Individuals motivated by bigotry, racism, segregationist ideology, or hyper-partisanship often demonstrate a willingness to advance their beliefs at any cost (every society has some but the % is important). When such motivations are coupled with financial incentives and reinforced by social groups demanding strict adherence to harmful norms, the outcomes can become highly undesirable. The active protection of corrupt and hateful practices intensifies this risk, possibly embedding these behaviors within institutions. Conversely, historical and hypothetical examples demonstrate that collective concern and challenge against hate by community members can generate measurable improvements in social cohesion, economic vitality, and overall community well-being.

Within this learning narrative, a network of corrupted officials emerges as central to systemic dysfunction. Whistleblower reports were systematically dismissed, investigative processes obstructed, and complaints redirected to perpetrators. Witnesses and complainants became targets of retaliation, while those engaged in misconduct received material and social rewards. Women, children, elderly, minorities, and others were victims as indication of long-term patterns. Over time, complaints lost credibility within institutional frameworks, and efforts to question corruption were met with shielding mechanisms or, in extreme cases, coordinated aggression and exclusionary practices amounting to social cleansing. An extreme sense of entitlement that lacked substative beliefs in universal professed oaths and values.

Two critical concepts warrant analysis:

1. Financial and Social Incentives. Corruption and hate endure in part because they generate both financial benefits and social reinforcement for those engaged in such practices. Officials may leverage their positions for personal enrichment, while social groups may perpetuate hate-driven narratives, exploit vulnerable populations, or marginalize specific communities. Over time, these behaviors risk normalization, eroding the ethical and professional commitments of those tasked with protecting the public good.

2. Long-Term Consequences. Once corrupt and hateful practices become institutionally entrenched and openly acknowledged as a drag on the community, reversing their impact becomes increasingly difficult. Aggression may be used to suppress freedom of speech or silence dissent, yet the knowledge of misconduct remains widespread. The normalization of such practices erodes trust in institutions and creates lasting harm to the social fabric. New victims could have been saved and protected but like others before they were dismissed and dehumanized in a type of gross negligence.

These observations prompt two fundamental questions. First, would systems of governance and community life not operate more effectively, sustainably, and equitably if corruption were removed? Corruption represents a misallocation of resources that diminishes efficiency and undermines collective well-being. Second, what are the long-term consequences for human capital when some members of society are systematically excluded from participation, justice, and equitable treatment on the basis of religion, race, political affiliation, or other?

These are theoretical discusions but one can fathom the other implications if corrupted is shielded and protected and the status que is that certain Clan members are the beneficiaries of institutional outcomes not based on truth, justice or merit but on the misuse of authority and power entrusted by communities but put in the hands of those not qualified to yeild it. At some point the community will have to reclaim that power or accept that a certain percentage of victims in long-stemming patterns is just part of "business as usual". 

*Remember this is a philsophical, theoretical, hypothetical learning thought experiment designed to get people thinking but not necessarily find a final conclusion. One may agree or disagree with such questions but it is the process that they thought about it that counts and own whatever conclusions they come to. "I know that I know nothing"- Socrates

Sunset and Peninsula Painting: Arts Foster a Healthier Society

Sunsets, oceans, and nature are at the top of my list of interests. I believe art serves a greater purpose beyond personal enjoyment—it shares values, preserves culture, spreads knowledge, and inspires societal change.

This is a piece I painted below.

Arts as a Foundation of Society

Sunset and Peninsula Painting
In the Wooded Pathway Gallery

Surround Yourself with the Right Team and Succeed

Executives should be thoughtful about the people they select to be part of their leadership team. While it is natural to gravitate toward those who agree with us, that approach is not always helpful. A team composed of individuals with diverse perspectives generates stronger ideas, fosters critical thinking, and reduces the risks of groupthink—a dynamic that has crippled many once-successful companies.

Organizations operate in dynamic, ever-changing environments. When too many leaders share similar backgrounds and viewpoints, they tend to approach challenges from a narrow angle, creating a type of strategic blindness. True transformation and innovation arise from novelty, which is most likely to emerge from a diverse team.

Equally important is the personality of those you hire. You don’t want people who simply say “yes” to every idea, nor do you want individuals who rigidly reject others’ perspectives. Instead, aim for emotionally intelligent, knowledgeable, and critical thinkers who can balance ideals with practical execution. Debate is essential, but it must eventually lead to an actionable plan.

It can be tempting to hire people who provide little resistance or feedback, but in today’s world, leaders are hired for their expertise and problem-solving abilities. Hiring in one’s own image risks overlooking the talent necessary to help an organization adapt to shifting industries and marketplaces.

Finally, remember that teams must rely on one another and remain aligned with the organization’s mission. Leaders who are in tune with both employee needs and market trends are better positioned to generate meaningful solutions. The more members who deeply understand the organization at multiple levels, the better they can coordinate resources and drive progress.

Little Hidden Discount Stores: The Entrepreneurial Spirit is Alive in Downtown Escanaba!

K Flipperz Discount Store

Inflation is a growing concern, and so are the rising prices that come with it. Sometimes, we simply have to absorb the cost increases. Other times, we can make adjustments to how we spend. Many of us—including myself—waste a surprising amount of money on things we don’t really need. But with a change in shopping habits, we can often find the same things we enjoy for a fraction of the price. 

Ever tried a discount store?

I have—and there's no shame in it. Many people live outside the upper tiers of society, without constant access to luxury goods or opportunities that create wealth. Some of us have experienced poverty, some abundance, and many of us live somewhere in between. Every purchase is a choice, and often, spending in one area means cutting back in another.

Recently, I spotted a small store that caught my eye. If you haven’t heard, Escanaba is becoming a hotspot for investment—both from outsiders and from locals. This particular store appears to be locally owned, and it’s one of the cleanest, most well-organized discount stores I’ve come across in a while, offering great deals in the process.

It’s a sign that the entrepreneurial spirit is starting to thrive in Escanaba, bucking broader economic trends. Escanaba Downtown

A Yooper shopping
representing Escanaba Downtown shopping

This opens the door to a larger conversation about supporting homegrown businesses and industries. Fostering entrepreneurship is vital—it not only fuels local economies but also inspires motivation and engagement. Studies have shown that entrepreneurial motivation plays a major role in business participation and long-term success.

One way to support local entrepreneurs is by shopping at their businesses and spreading the word. Another idea could be forming a local business group— Escanaba Development Authority—to help coordinate strategies, share resources, and offer guidance to new ventures. 

We can help small businesses and startups to succeed through motivation, belief, knowledge, resources, opportunity, location, and structured guidance. These factors can dramatically increase their chances of success and help our community thrive in the process.

K Flipperz Discount Store

Emerging Markets, Entrepreneurial Spirit and Self-Efficacy

*A local tip: I bought 24 oz of ground coffee and a few other 12 oz coffee for $4 the other day. Some bags left. Coffee is like $10 for 12 oz in most places. I loaded up!

Escanaba City Council Meeting (August 7th, 2025): Economic Development and Community Thriving

There are a lot of interesting things happening as the city looks to maximize its growth opportunities. Escanaba has come a long way and is running smoothly. Some have even called it an investment hot spot, thanks to growth in hotels, tourism, and industry.

What’s especially encouraging is that the city is, for the most part, operating in the black. There’s an active, engaged community here—people genuinely care and work hard to help each other thrive. As the global market shifts, places like Escanaba may offer unexpected opportunities. And I mean that—good things are happening. I’ve never seen such a dedicated group of community members. They understand that building a great place to live depends on one another, and they’re working together to create a future where their children and grandchildren can succeed.

A few of the topics recently discussed include grants, economic development, retirements, odor concerns, and the landfill—which might actually present opportunities for innovation in waste processing and other areas of interest.

There’s a lot to take in, so I encourage you to watch for yourself.

August 7th, 2025 Escanaba City Council Meeting

History and Pictures of San Diego Bay: Star of India and Artwork

San Diego Bay Picture
In my art gallery with
a few other pictures and products.

San Diego Bay is a vibrant place, full of attractions for tourists, locals, and food lovers alike. As an amateur photographer, I’m always looking to capture positive and meaningful experiences. On this particular day, I was biking through downtown to check out the impressive Coast Guard ship. (I actually considered joining the Coast Guard Auxiliary as a volunteer, but since I travel so often, I felt it wouldn’t be fair to accept training without being able to fully commit. It would’ve been a cool experience—but instead, I ended up joining the fire service, where there’s an even greater need.)

Star of India in Gallery

Anyway, you might enjoy a manuscript I came across on the history of San Diego Bay—really fascinating stuff! It got me thinking about how towns tend to develop along similar paths, even when their industries differ (i.e. the study of Economics, History and Sociology). That reflection naturally led me to think about my own hometown of Escanaba and how its growth could be shaped by learning from places like San Diego. (I did expand an economic theory based on the fishing industry and I have a book coming out soon. I doubt many will read it or buy it but keep checking back.) Anyway, take a look at San Diego History Center San Diego Bay in Pictures 

P.S. I love the photo of the rowing club alongside the larger boats. Rowing is something I really enjoy when I can find the time. I’ve got a few things on my plate right now, but I’m seriously considering rejoining the local rowing club.

P.P.S. The Star of India is still docked here—it’s been in San Diego since 1941. Originally built in 1863, it’s an iron-hulled sailing ship and a real piece of history.

Corruption and Hate's Negative Impact to Society: Exploring the Story of the Clan

Corruption is a disease that infects society. Ethical officials, leaders, and citizens alike generally understand that corruption harms not only individuals but the broader functioning of a free society. It disrupts the fair exchange of commerce, ideas, and human connection.

Yet, despite its clear dangers, corruption isn’t always treated as a pressing concern. In some cases, even when misconduct is evident, individuals go out of their way to shield it—ignoring its repeated patterns and the victims it creates.

The risks to society are real.

A philosopher preaching against corruption and hate.
Corruption has a long tail impact so
good character should be fostered.

"Character is destiny"-Heraclitus

Let us explore a learning narrative: The Story of the Clan. In this hypothetical, philosophical thought experiment, we encounter hampered by clear corruption and hate-based behaviors (The definition of those an open debate. The law and philososphy may say different things.). Over the years, numerous victims emerged—ranging from survivors of sexual violence to those targeted by attempts at social or cultural "cleansing."

Human and civil rights were mocked openly, while the law was twisted to incentivize and protect wrongdoing. Each time a new instance of corruption surfaced, decision-makers affiliated with the Clan blocked investigations and redirected scrutiny onto the victims, whistleblowers, or witnesses. The cracks in the moral foundation of the law—and its purpose—became painfully clear.

The Story of the Clan is not a literal account but a tool for exploring the moral importance of challenging corruption. Most people believe in values like fairness, justice, liberty, and human dignity—and many have pledged to uphold them. But when individuals or institutions manipulate the law while ignoring its ethical foundation, society suffers.

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Risks of Ignoring Corruption

1. Law Becomes a Tool of Injustice
   When people realize the law is being misused—intentionally shielding serious crimes—it loses its perceived legitimacy (..law has an important purpose in society to ensure certain rules that benefit everyone are followed). Corruption erodes faith in legal systems meant to protect society.

2. More Victims Come Forward
   Attempts to suppress victims often backfire. When more survivors speak out, the extent of wrongdoing becomes undeniable. It's especially immoral when whistleblowers and concerned citizens are targeted for trying to do the right thing.

3. Impact on Social and Economic Health
   Corruption undermines prosperity. In our example, once the community began challenging corruption, it reversed a 20-year decline and moved toward a healthier, more vibrant, and economically thriving future (...using a long ethical exploratory story). In such societies we may see crime declining, trust rising, and greater social and economic engagement.

4. Erosion of Public Trust
   Trust in public institutions depends on the belief that officials will uphold the law fairly. When corruption is overlooked or covered up, even by those in positions of power, public confidence deteriorates. Encouraging greater engagement and greater support relies in part on that integrity and wisdom of decision makers.

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Civic Responsibility

It’s vital to be a good citizen by reporting corruption and crime. While some reports are taken seriously, others may be ignored—but documenting misconduct is still important. Yes, retaliation is a risk, especially in environments where corruption has been normalized by some (in this case Clan members). But there remains a greater responsibility to society. People who swear certain oaths and pledges would be helping to fulfill them by reporting corruption and other wrongdoing (It is a duty despite the risks. It helps define a persons soul and values. Keep in mind this is a philosophical piece. Soul and values will be discussed later.).

In The Story of the Clan, we see how protecting corruption has long-term consequences. Each new victim reflects the unresolved, foundational issues that continue to fester.

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Philosophical Questions

1. Is it important for members of society to report corruption and hate crimes?
   Who do they report it to? Are these entities independent, and are they capable of meaningful reform if crimes are well known, documented, and verified? Where are they collected, who reviews, and who makes changes? Does data and trend matter? (If you don't have a mechanism to collect, study and investigate then complaints have little to no impact. In some incidents some may not want to collect or understand.)

2. Do institutions function best when regularly improved?
   Are our systems operating at their highest state, or is there still room for growth, correction, and reform? (It is ok to say no we don't need change but it should be a logical one. Most research indicates that positive upward change is important so I would be interested in seeing reports that say change isn't helpful. The key to understanding is to not make quick conclusions and be willing to accept a variety of information that helps define a problem and provide a possible solution. Never start with a solution or an answer if you don't know what the questions are. Take your time and understand.)

3. How does corruption impact free exchange and core liberties?
   Does protecting corruption undermine life, liberty, freedom of speech, religion, and economic opportunity? One may think of the essential purpose of law and institutions in preserving those essential universal values. Are there economic impacts if there are hamperings to free exchange or core liberties?

4. Can purging corruption help good officials thrive?
   Do fair systems allow the best and brightest to serve with integrity? What happens when corruption is ignored—how does it shape internal cultures? How do those cultures impact employees, public servants and others? Do cultures have impact on organizational success? Will there be more victims and who is responsible for that? Should it be the victims or those who shield corruption and hate?

5. Are ethics and shared values necessary for a healthy society?
   How do we encourage officials to uphold these values? And what does it signal when they don’t? Do ethics really matter and who says that honesty and fairness actually improve society? What happens if values are not shared or ethics is not a concern? (Again...it is ok to say they are not necessary or needed but one should support that belief. In general, conventional wisdom says that shared commitment to certain fundamental missions, objectives, values, etc. lead to coordination and increase in broad based performance.)

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Historical and Philosophical Roots

If you're a history enthusiast, you’ll recall that many of the U.S. founding fathers (and let's not forget the mothers) were deeply concerned with corruption.

• Thomas Jefferson stressed removing corruption and restoring first principles.

• George Washington warned against outside influence.

• James Madison proposed that ambition should counteract ambition to prevent abuse.

• Jefferson also emphasized the role of an informed citizenry in protecting the republic.

Religious and secular philosophers alike have acknowledged the importance of universal principles—those that uphold truth, dignity, justice, and the common good.

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Final Thoughts

This story is meant for learning and reflection. It doesn’t claim to be definitive, but it does help spark discussion and critical thought about corruption, ethics, economic impact, social growth, and the responsibilities we all share.

You are free to agree or disagree as well as bring forward alternative perspectives. What matters most is that you took a moment to think, question, and come to conclusions that reflect your values. That conclusion is something you own as a person and defines you and your values. In some ways it defines your soul (No judgement either way).

Whether you find yourself asking new questions or reaffirming old beliefs, you've engaged in the process of thought—and that’s where growth begins. Time answers all questions......