The Extinction of Politics The Extinction of Politics A specula
A speculation on the tion on the relationshrelationship between ip between Ecology, Ecology, Politics Politics and Goveand Governmentrnment Dedicated to John Adams
Dedicated to John Adams
Preface Preface
When
When The Origin of the SpeciesThe Origin of the Species appeared in 1859 the first people to appropriate Darwin’s appeared in 1859 the first people to appropriate Darwin’s ideas were the wealthy, who quickly promoted pseudo-scientific arguments using “natural ideas were the wealthy, who quickly promoted pseudo-scientific arguments using “natural selection” to rationalize their domination of society. At the time, anarchism, communism and selection” to rationalize their domination of society. At the time, anarchism, communism and socialism were all perceived as serious threats to the existing social order. Evolution seemed to socialism were all perceived as serious threats to the existing social order. Evolution seemed to offer a solid
offer a solid scientific rebuttalscientific rebuttal. . This line of This line of defense was eventually discredited, however, anddefense was eventually discredited, however, and today the phrase “social Darwinism” is universally recognized as a negative comment on today the phrase “social Darwinism” is universally recognized as a negative comment on half-truths that use “science” to excuse oppression and racism. The very mention of Darwin’s half-truths that use “science” to excuse oppression and racism. The very mention of Darwin’s name in a political context is now likely to raise eyebrows. Nevertheless, in the following essay I name in a political context is now likely to raise eyebrows. Nevertheless, in the following essay I have chosen to revisit the connection between evolution and politics. I justify this by examining have chosen to revisit the connection between evolution and politics. I justify this by examining the same subject and drawing wholly different conclusions.
the same subject and drawing wholly different conclusions.
In the 19th Century Darwin was enlisted to justify the status quo. Fetid slums, child labor, In the 19th Century Darwin was enlisted to justify the status quo. Fetid slums, child labor, eighteen hour workdays and global imperialism were all rationalized as necessary
manifestations of a pre-ordained natural process. Today, I would use Darwin to discredit, once manifestations of a pre-ordained natural process. Today, I would use Darwin to discredit, once and for all,
and for all, the notion that the notion that such atrocities can any such atrocities can any longer be justified; arguing that longer be justified; arguing that contemporarycontemporary class divisions and the nationalistic sparring of global geopolitics are an anachronistic
class divisions and the nationalistic sparring of global geopolitics are an anachronistic
evolutionary inheritance from the pre-industrial era. Under the ecological dynamic governing our evolutionary inheritance from the pre-industrial era. Under the ecological dynamic governing our species during that former period class structure provided a vital advantage to human
species during that former period class structure provided a vital advantage to human
populations competing (militarily) over limited habitat (agricultural land). Class oppression and populations competing (militarily) over limited habitat (agricultural land). Class oppression and warfare were as inevitable as famine and pestilence; all necessary parts of a self-regulating warfare were as inevitable as famine and pestilence; all necessary parts of a self-regulating natural ecosystem (much as the original social-Darwinists had in fact argued).
natural ecosystem (much as the original social-Darwinists had in fact argued). However However , in the, in the post-agrarian, industrial world which emerged during the 19th Century that ancient natural post-agrarian, industrial world which emerged during the 19th Century that ancient natural system was upended. Famine and plague are largely behind us now. Social violence should be system was upended. Famine and plague are largely behind us now. Social violence should be as well. Oppression and warfare are no longer unavoidable parts of a balanced natural system, as well. Oppression and warfare are no longer unavoidable parts of a balanced natural system, they exist primarily because human social institutions which evolved under the former dynamic they exist primarily because human social institutions which evolved under the former dynamic actively perpetuate them. As a species, our means of existence changed practically overnight, actively perpetuate them. As a species, our means of existence changed practically overnight, but social structures which arose over the course of millennia are not easily replaced. To end but social structures which arose over the course of millennia are not easily replaced. To end oppression, warfare and environmental insanity we must modify the institutional mechanisms oppression, warfare and environmental insanity we must modify the institutional mechanisms which facilitate it.
which facilitate it.
It is my contention (contrary to popular wisdom) that our Constitutional system of government It is my contention (contrary to popular wisdom) that our Constitutional system of government is foremost among those anachronistic institutions upholding class divisions and perpetuating is foremost among those anachronistic institutions upholding class divisions and perpetuating military aggression. The framers meant well but they were hardly Revolutionaries; they made military aggression. The framers meant well but they were hardly Revolutionaries; they made modest adjustments to the traditional English governing institutions that they were familiar with. modest adjustments to the traditional English governing institutions that they were familiar with. The resultant
The resultant system was appropriate to system was appropriate to the 18th the 18th Century but failed to Century but failed to anticipate the stunninganticipate the stunning changes that would inevitably be wrought by industrialism in the following centuries.
changes that would inevitably be wrought by industrialism in the following centuries.
From the 19th Century onward there have been countless calls for an end to the economic From the 19th Century onward there have been countless calls for an end to the economic subjugation and interminable military conflict perpetuated by traditional governing institutions, subjugation and interminable military conflict perpetuated by traditional governing institutions,
but the arguments used, on both sides of the debate, have generally lacked coherence. but the arguments used, on both sides of the debate, have generally lacked coherence. Supporters of the
Supporters of the established order jettisoned Darwin in favor of established order jettisoned Darwin in favor of Adam Smith but Adam Smith but theirtheir arguments remain pseudo-scientific, with “market forces” replacing “natural selection” as a arguments remain pseudo-scientific, with “market forces” replacing “natural selection” as a convenient excuse for a wide range of destructive practices. Proponents of change have shown convenient excuse for a wide range of destructive practices. Proponents of change have shown even less creativity, making little effort to bolster the doctrine of Karl Marx despite despite its even less creativity, making little effort to bolster the doctrine of Karl Marx despite despite its substantial shortcomings. Both sides regularly resort to couching their arguments in the substantial shortcomings. Both sides regularly resort to couching their arguments in the
language of Judeo-Christian morality, demonstrating that more scientific arguments have clearly language of Judeo-Christian morality, demonstrating that more scientific arguments have clearly fallen short of the objective.
fallen short of the objective. Neither side has ever seriously questioned the fundamentalNeither side has ever seriously questioned the fundamental structure of Republicanism.
structure of Republicanism. In this environment of intellectual stagnation, nationalist andIn this environment of intellectual stagnation, nationalist and capitalist propaganda either goes unchallenged or receives ineffectual moral rebukes. Two capitalist propaganda either goes unchallenged or receives ineffectual moral rebukes. Two centuries after the birth of Marx, oppression and warfare are as pronounced as ever, while the centuries after the birth of Marx, oppression and warfare are as pronounced as ever, while the environmental consequences of the industrial revolution threaten to overwhelm human society. environmental consequences of the industrial revolution threaten to overwhelm human society. If social justice and environmental sanity are indeed possible, they will surely require an
If social justice and environmental sanity are indeed possible, they will surely require an advancement of the intellectual position supporting them.
advancement of the intellectual position supporting them.
The struggle between progressive and conservative forces hinges on ideas. The success of The struggle between progressive and conservative forces hinges on ideas. The success of progressive goals depends (at least partially) on the quality of progressive concepts, and these progressive goals depends (at least partially) on the quality of progressive concepts, and these remain mired in the past. There is as much orthodoxy on the Left as the Right. To move forward remain mired in the past. There is as much orthodoxy on the Left as the Right. To move forward we must first confront
we must first confront our preconceptions. The views which our preconceptions. The views which I express in I express in the following pages arethe following pages are unconventional, but I take
unconventional, but I take comfort from the example comfort from the example of John of John Adams, who always Adams, who always possessedpossessed the courage of his convictions even when those convictions were universally unpopular. I the courage of his convictions even when those convictions were universally unpopular. I dedicate this essay to Adams and quote him freely throughout because I believe that any dedicate this essay to Adams and quote him freely throughout because I believe that any argument
argument against our Constitution should answer directly to against our Constitution should answer directly to the minds which the minds which created it. Hiscreated it. His thinking was central to the design of our Constitution but he was also a tremendous critic, thinking was central to the design of our Constitution but he was also a tremendous critic,
especially in later years. Perhaps after two centuries we may yet wish to consider those especially in later years. Perhaps after two centuries we may yet wish to consider those criticisms.
criticisms.
The Theological Interpretation of the Constitution The Theological Interpretation of the Constitution
Study government as you do astronomy, by facts, observations and experiments; not by the Study government as you do astronomy, by facts, observations and experiments; not by the
dogmas of lying priest or knavish politicians dogmas of lying priest or knavish politicians
Whatever is not built on the broad basis of public utility must be thrown to the ground Whatever is not built on the broad basis of public utility must be thrown to the ground
Theoretical books upon government will not sell. Booksellers and printers, far from purchasing Theoretical books upon government will not sell. Booksellers and printers, far from purchasing
the manuscript, will not accept it as a gift the manuscript, will not accept it as a gift
Experience and philosophy are lost upon mankind… Experience and philosophy are lost upon mankind…
John Adams John Adams
John Adams was eminently qualified to lead our Country; a Harvard trained lawyer and John Adams was eminently qualified to lead our Country; a Harvard trained lawyer and polyglot with an encyclopedic knowledge of
polyglot with an encyclopedic knowledge of Western history, he was Western history, he was well equipped to well equipped to judge onjudge on the important issues facing a young nation. As part of this broad wisdom, he had a firm grasp of the important issues facing a young nation. As part of this broad wisdom, he had a firm grasp of two fundamental truths:
two fundamental truths:
●
●
● DogmDogma and misa and misundundersterstandanding (whing (which peich permearmeated thted the subje subject evect even theen then) are ann) are an insurmountable obstacle to its progress.
insurmountable obstacle to its progress.
If these obstacles held sway in Adam’s day, during the enlightenment, how much more so now, If these obstacles held sway in Adam’s day, during the enlightenment, how much more so now, in an age when U. S. Lawmakers openly reject the virtues of liberal education and scientific in an age when U. S. Lawmakers openly reject the virtues of liberal education and scientific knowledge; publicly disavowing the theories of Evolution and human induced climate change. knowledge; publicly disavowing the theories of Evolution and human induced climate change. Most contemporary Americans would endure a root canal before reading Locke, Rousseau or Most contemporary Americans would endure a root canal before reading Locke, Rousseau or Montesquieu. Our elected representatives are no exception to this sentiment. In a more
Montesquieu. Our elected representatives are no exception to this sentiment. In a more thoughtful age, Adams made a sincere contribution to the political literature and suffered the thoughtful age, Adams made a sincere contribution to the political literature and suffered the rest of his life as a target for every sort of libel and slander; all because he dared to suggest (on rest of his life as a target for every sort of libel and slander; all because he dared to suggest (on the basis of voluminous historic evidence) that an overly democratic Republic might have some the basis of voluminous historic evidence) that an overly democratic Republic might have some serious unanticipated consequences. Today, no establishment intellectual would dare to
serious unanticipated consequences. Today, no establishment intellectual would dare to question the divine perfection of our Constitution’s general plan. It would be an act of social question the divine perfection of our Constitution’s general plan. It would be an act of social heresy and
heresy and professional suicide, contradicting the revered tenets professional suicide, contradicting the revered tenets of of modern political science.modern political science. But what kind of “science” enforces a rigid doctrinal orthodoxy?
But what kind of “science” enforces a rigid doctrinal orthodoxy?
In natural science we've abandoned leeches and kite flying for genetic engineering and In natural science we've abandoned leeches and kite flying for genetic engineering and quantum computing,
quantum computing, but the science of but the science of government government stands motionless! stands motionless! After two c After two centuries wenturies wee still argue over the precise intention of the framers, as though unable to think for ourselves. If still argue over the precise intention of the framers, as though unable to think for ourselves. If computer scientists at MIT spent their days scrutinizing Benjamin Franklin's lab notes would we computer scientists at MIT spent their days scrutinizing Benjamin Franklin's lab notes would we take them seriously? If your doctor discounted the existence of microbes would you continue take them seriously? If your doctor discounted the existence of microbes would you continue visiting her? This isn't political “science”, it's theology! The Constitution has become a sacred visiting her? This isn't political “science”, it's theology! The Constitution has become a sacred tablet which the patriarchal pretenders of our society use to uphold a status quo from the tablet which the patriarchal pretenders of our society use to uphold a status quo from the pre-industrial era.
Grand
Grand Ayatollahs and Ayatollahs and Supreme Supreme Court Court Justices both Justices both wear wear black black robes while robes while enforcingenforcing
conformity in the name of an ancient document, but there is a critical difference. The will of Allah conformity in the name of an ancient document, but there is a critical difference. The will of Allah is inscrutable whereas the earthly intentions of the framers were clearly stated in plain English is inscrutable whereas the earthly intentions of the framers were clearly stated in plain English at the
at the beginning of their document. beginning of their document. Secular ends demand Secular ends demand secular means. When governmentsecular means. When government becomes destructive of those ends it is the right of the people to change their means. This is the becomes destructive of those ends it is the right of the people to change their means. This is the province of science, not religion. But the theological interpretation of the Constitution has
province of science, not religion. But the theological interpretation of the Constitution has
become so ingrained we are blinded by it. Instead of doubting the institutions of government we become so ingrained we are blinded by it. Instead of doubting the institutions of government we accept their suitability as an absolute given, even when the actions of that government are accept their suitability as an absolute given, even when the actions of that government are frequently repulsive to us.
frequently repulsive to us.
Medieval peasants accepted the Catholic church as we accept the institutions of our Medieval peasants accepted the Catholic church as we accept the institutions of our Republic. On faith. Even the Inquisition was accepted as god's work, just as Guantanamo is Republic. On faith. Even the Inquisition was accepted as god's work, just as Guantanamo is considered defensible by many today. Even those who disagree with such atrocities seldom considered defensible by many today. Even those who disagree with such atrocities seldom blame the institution itself:
blame the institution itself: a wicked Cardinal?a wicked Cardinal? - yes certainly; - yes certainly; a corrupt politician?a corrupt politician? - what else;- what else; But
But a failed institution?a failed institution? - no absolutely not; the Church and Republic are both beyond reproach- no absolutely not; the Church and Republic are both beyond reproach no matter what horrors are perpetrated in their name. We must pray harder and campaign more no matter what horrors are perpetrated in their name. We must pray harder and campaign more vigorously. In the end virtue will prevail, both in heaven and on earth.
vigorously. In the end virtue will prevail, both in heaven and on earth.
For the faithful this attitude is understandable. Gods will is mysterious and we mortals must For the faithful this attitude is understandable. Gods will is mysterious and we mortals must submit. For the secular follower of a political ideology, however, this attitude is inexplicable. The submit. For the secular follower of a political ideology, however, this attitude is inexplicable. The ideology is simply a tool established by mortals for an earthly goal; social harmony. When the ideology is simply a tool established by mortals for an earthly goal; social harmony. When the tool fails to serve we must examine it to understand the problem. When we identify the problem tool fails to serve we must examine it to understand the problem. When we identify the problem then we may seek to repair it.
then we may seek to repair it.
Our Republic is often described as an experiment. If the framers were scientists their trial Our Republic is often described as an experiment. If the framers were scientists their trial appears to have gone astray. It would seem wise then, under the circumstances, to review their appears to have gone astray. It would seem wise then, under the circumstances, to review their thinking so that we may analyze the situation intelligently. We should examine their words not thinking so that we may analyze the situation intelligently. We should examine their words not
as a sacred text but as laboratory notes, seeking clues, not religious instruction. Our world has as a sacred text but as laboratory notes, seeking clues, not religious instruction. Our world has changed almost beyond recognition since the 18th Century. What scientist imagines their changed almost beyond recognition since the 18th Century. What scientist imagines their experiment will be duplicated when
experiment will be duplicated when virtually all of the original conditions are virtually all of the original conditions are altered? altered? Instead ofInstead of expecting something so improbable we should study the problem, like Adam’s “astronomer”, expecting something so improbable we should study the problem, like Adam’s “astronomer”, with an eye for “facts”, not “dogma”
with an eye for “facts”, not “dogma”
The framers lived before Darwin. Were the implications of his work not profound with respect The framers lived before Darwin. Were the implications of his work not profound with respect to human government? Surely they were no less radical than the revelations of Copernicus for to human government? Surely they were no less radical than the revelations of Copernicus for astronomy. Where is the long overdue re-examination of "political science" that was so clearly astronomy. Where is the long overdue re-examination of "political science" that was so clearly indicated by Darwin's theory?
indicated by Darwin's theory?
Abuses and Usurpations Abuses and Usurpations
I know but one
I know but one principle principle or element of government, a constant or element of government, a constant and perpetual disposition andand perpetual disposition and determination to do to others as we would have others do to us
determination to do to others as we would have others do to us
Justice is the only moral principle of government Justice is the only moral principle of government
John Adams John Adams
Not to belabor the obvious but rather in the interest of securing our footing, we should start at Not to belabor the obvious but rather in the interest of securing our footing, we should start at the beginning and renew our understanding of the framer’s purposes. What postulates did the the beginning and renew our understanding of the framer’s purposes. What postulates did the framers accept? What durable wisdom did they derive from three thousand years of European framers accept? What durable wisdom did they derive from three thousand years of European and Mediterranean history? On what solid foundations did they erect their work? Do these and Mediterranean history? On what solid foundations did they erect their work? Do these premises still work for us today? No assumptions should be above review.
Predictably, the
Predictably, the framers concurred framers concurred with with Socrates and Socrates and nearly every nearly every other other philosopher (exceptphilosopher (except perhaps Machiavelli) by stating unequivocally that Governments are created for the benefit of perhaps Machiavelli) by stating unequivocally that Governments are created for the benefit of those to be governed. “Freedom”, “happiness“ , “safety“, “justice“, “domestic tranquility” and those to be governed. “Freedom”, “happiness“ , “safety“, “justice“, “domestic tranquility” and “general welfare”; these are the goals of Government. Government is expected to provide these “general welfare”; these are the goals of Government. Government is expected to provide these goods, and ultimately derive its legitimacy through the “consent of the governed” who believe goods, and ultimately derive its legitimacy through the “consent of the governed” who believe that these functions have been fulfilled. This position isn't science, it’s philosophy, but surely this that these functions have been fulfilled. This position isn't science, it’s philosophy, but surely this is one article of faith which even today we may all accept. In fact, it seems so incontrovertible as is one article of faith which even today we may all accept. In fact, it seems so incontrovertible as to be scarcely worth mentioning, except for a glaring inconsistency: the elephant in the room to be scarcely worth mentioning, except for a glaring inconsistency: the elephant in the room which is so painfully illuminated by these words. If government is an institution that provides for which is so painfully illuminated by these words. If government is an institution that provides for the general welfare of a consenting populace, why is our society so unwell, and why is it that our the general welfare of a consenting populace, why is our society so unwell, and why is it that our consent is so clearly forced?
consent is so clearly forced?
What are we to do with this information? Is this not an enormous problem? The Republic was What are we to do with this information? Is this not an enormous problem? The Republic was instituted to support our health and happiness, and yet:
instituted to support our health and happiness, and yet:
●
● What juWhat justice wstice when a smhen a small fraall fractioction of the pon of the populapulation htion holds moolds most of the wst of the wealtealth and, bh and, byy virtue of this wealth, enjoys an unlimited power to manipulate the political system? virtue of this wealth, enjoys an unlimited power to manipulate the political system? ●
● What fWhat freedom, reedom, happinehappiness and ss and tranquility tranquility when when the othe overwhelming verwhelming majority, majority, having having little orlittle or no wealth, are de facto slaves to these wealthy overlords?
no wealth, are de facto slaves to these wealthy overlords? ●
● What wWhat welfaelfare where when our use on our use of the earf the earth’s reth’s resoursources thces threatreatens to reens to rendender the earr the earthth uninhabitable?
uninhabitable? ●
● What sWhat safetafety whey when the cn the commoommon defen defense tnse threahreatens ttens to anno annihilaihilate us?te us? ●
● What cWhat conseonsent whent when fewn fewer thaer than one cn one citizeitizen in ten an in ten appropproves oves of his elf his electeectedd representatives?
What person would seriously contend this is “a more perfect union”? Are these “the blessings of What person would seriously contend this is “a more perfect union”? Are these “the blessings of liberty”? If “Justice is the only moral principle of
liberty”? If “Justice is the only moral principle of Government” then how may we Government” then how may we call this state ofcall this state of affairs anything other than a horrific failure?
affairs anything other than a horrific failure?
If we truly revere the framers, as so many claim to, then we must acknowledge this glaring If we truly revere the framers, as so many claim to, then we must acknowledge this glaring and horrific discrepancy between the stated purpose of their creation and the reality of the and horrific discrepancy between the stated purpose of their creation and the reality of the actual existence which we now lead. And if we will admit the obvious, and concede that our actual existence which we now lead. And if we will admit the obvious, and concede that our Government has become counterproductive to the desired ends, then we must look for some Government has become counterproductive to the desired ends, then we must look for some flaw in our Government. It is pointless resorting to the theological interpretation of the
flaw in our Government. It is pointless resorting to the theological interpretation of the Constitution. Adopting a moral tone and blaming plutocrats, political parties, lobbyists, Constitution. Adopting a moral tone and blaming plutocrats, political parties, lobbyists,
corporations or any other group, is futile. Of course these parties are flawed, we are all flawed, corporations or any other group, is futile. Of course these parties are flawed, we are all flawed, but it is the function of Government to account for these flaws and protect us; from each other but it is the function of Government to account for these flaws and protect us; from each other and also from ourselves. Remember Madison, the “father” or our Constitution:
and also from ourselves. Remember Madison, the “father” or our Constitution:
If men were angels no government would be necessary If men were angels no government would be necessary
The imagery was religious but the reasoning was purely secular. Government must account for The imagery was religious but the reasoning was purely secular. Government must account for the deficiencies in human nature. When government fails to achieve that purpose it is absurd to the deficiencies in human nature. When government fails to achieve that purpose it is absurd to blame that failure on the citizens. When the citizens run amuck we must look to the Constitution, blame that failure on the citizens. When the citizens run amuck we must look to the Constitution, not the people. The other view is backwards.
not the people. The other view is backwards.
The framers experiment has unquestionably gone awry. If we share their wish for social The framers experiment has unquestionably gone awry. If we share their wish for social harmony but recognize the yawning chasm between intention and reality which has grown up harmony but recognize the yawning chasm between intention and reality which has grown up over the past centuries then we must take action. Otherwise that pit may swallow us. To start, over the past centuries then we must take action. Otherwise that pit may swallow us. To start, we must abandon the theological interpretation of the Constitution and consider the problems of we must abandon the theological interpretation of the Constitution and consider the problems of government like true scientists, with an open mind. Many theories are possible, in the following government like true scientists, with an open mind. Many theories are possible, in the following
pages I advance but one, believing that of all the myriad changes, the central and most pages I advance but one, believing that of all the myriad changes, the central and most important transformation ought to be in how we view ourselves. If, as Darwin insists, we are important transformation ought to be in how we view ourselves. If, as Darwin insists, we are primates, then we should look to the natural world for answers as readily as we consult any primates, then we should look to the natural world for answers as readily as we consult any treatise on philosophy. And we should attempt to view our "modern" institutions with the same treatise on philosophy. And we should attempt to view our "modern" institutions with the same objectivity as a Margaret Mead, a Jane Goodall or even a Gregor Mendel. Then perhaps we will objectivity as a Margaret Mead, a Jane Goodall or even a Gregor Mendel. Then perhaps we will finally catch a glimpse of those flaws which threaten to destroy us.
finally catch a glimpse of those flaws which threaten to destroy us.
“Checks and Balances” revisited “Checks and Balances” revisited
Food, Raiment, and habitations, the indispensable wants of all, are not to be achieved without Food, Raiment, and habitations, the indispensable wants of all, are not to be achieved without
the continual toil of
the continual toil of ninety-nine in a hundred ninety-nine in a hundred of mankind… of mankind… The controversy between the The controversy between the richrich and the poor, the laborious and the idle, the learned and the ignorant, distinctions as old as the and the poor, the laborious and the idle, the learned and the ignorant, distinctions as old as the creation, and as extensive as the globe, distinctions which no art or policy, no degree of virtue creation, and as extensive as the globe, distinctions which no art or policy, no degree of virtue or philosophy can ever wholly destroy, will continue, and rivalries will spring out of them. These or philosophy can ever wholly destroy, will continue, and rivalries will spring out of them. These
parties will b
parties will be represee represented in tnted in the legislahe legislature, and ture, and must be must be balancedbalanced, or one , or one will oppress will oppress thethe other. There will never probably be found any other mode of establishing such an equilibrium , other. There will never probably be found any other mode of establishing such an equilibrium , than by constituting the representation of each an independent branch of the legislature, and an than by constituting the representation of each an independent branch of the legislature, and an
independent executive authority, such as that in our government, to be a third branch and a independent executive authority, such as that in our government, to be a third branch and a mediator or an arbitrator between them. Property must be secured, or liberty cannot exist. mediator or an arbitrator between them. Property must be secured, or liberty cannot exist.
The great art of lawgiving consists in balancing the poor against the rich in the legislature. The great art of lawgiving consists in balancing the poor against the rich in the legislature.
John Adams John Adams
The
The above above statements by statements by Adams Adams may provide may provide a a clue as clue as to to where the where the framers’ trial wentframers’ trial went wrong. Proponents of our political system rarely tire of extolling the great virtue of its “checks wrong. Proponents of our political system rarely tire of extolling the great virtue of its “checks and balances”, but
and balances”, but as Adams as Adams states quite clearly here, the states quite clearly here, the elaborate mechanism of ourelaborate mechanism of our
government was created solely for the purpose of maintaining a social order in which the "rich" government was created solely for the purpose of maintaining a social order in which the "rich" are supported by "the continual toil of ninety nine in a hundred". Over two centuries before the are supported by "the continual toil of ninety nine in a hundred". Over two centuries before the Occupy Wall Street protests, the
Occupy Wall Street protests, the most thoughtful of most thoughtful of the framers makes it the framers makes it clear that theclear that the
Occupiers are absolutely correct in their assessment of American society. Similar explanations Occupiers are absolutely correct in their assessment of American society. Similar explanations of our Constitutional system appear throughout
of our Constitutional system appear throughout The Federalist The Federalist . What Adams says here, was. What Adams says here, was once common knowledge among all educated people.
once common knowledge among all educated people.
It would be unfair to condemn Adams and his peers. Class divisions are as old as civilization It would be unfair to condemn Adams and his peers. Class divisions are as old as civilization and the framers were both wealthy and pragmatic. We cannot reasonably imagine they would and the framers were both wealthy and pragmatic. We cannot reasonably imagine they would have attempted to create a Utopia. They simply wished to design a Republic which tempered have attempted to create a Utopia. They simply wished to design a Republic which tempered the excesses of grinding despotism and revolutionary anarchy. Set in the context of the 18th the excesses of grinding despotism and revolutionary anarchy. Set in the context of the 18th Century, their thinking was progressive and humane. But is this thinking still appropriate today? Century, their thinking was progressive and humane. But is this thinking still appropriate today? Nominally, the virtue of this class balancing act was that each party would be protected. The Nominally, the virtue of this class balancing act was that each party would be protected. The one percent would be limited in its oppression of the ninety nine; the ninety nine would not one percent would be limited in its oppression of the ninety nine; the ninety nine would not overthrow the one. Order would be maintained and property would be secure. Well, we have overthrow the one. Order would be maintained and property would be secure. Well, we have had order and property has been tremendously secure, but the benefits derived by the ninety had order and property has been tremendously secure, but the benefits derived by the ninety nine are surely overstated.
nine are surely overstated.
The essence of checks and balances was to maintain the status quo. Neither the rich nor the The essence of checks and balances was to maintain the status quo. Neither the rich nor the poor could fundamentally alter the system by themselves. But the status quo was not static, it poor could fundamentally alter the system by themselves. But the status quo was not static, it was a
was a dynamic system called Capitalism, and two dynamic system called Capitalism, and two centuries of centuries of buying, selling, research,buying, selling, research, investment and consolidation have generated an entirely new status quo based on technology investment and consolidation have generated an entirely new status quo based on technology the framers never even dreamed of, like automated mass production, nuclear power, artificial the framers never even dreamed of, like automated mass production, nuclear power, artificial
intelligence, WMD's and genetic engineering. Surely this is a transformation worth intelligence, WMD's and genetic engineering. Surely this is a transformation worth
contemplating. If the entire “art of lawgiving” consists in maintaining an economic system based contemplating. If the entire “art of lawgiving” consists in maintaining an economic system based on manual labor, what happens to Government when manual labor becomes virtually irrelevant? on manual labor, what happens to Government when manual labor becomes virtually irrelevant? Did this transformation not remove much of the bargaining power once held by those laborers? Did this transformation not remove much of the bargaining power once held by those laborers?
The “Class System” is not just a worn out Marxist cliché. It is a recognizable feature of the The “Class System” is not just a worn out Marxist cliché. It is a recognizable feature of the social landscape in every civilization which has ever existed. Adams describes its perpetuation social landscape in every civilization which has ever existed. Adams describes its perpetuation as the central problem in Government. That being the case, is it unreasonable to examine this as the central problem in Government. That being the case, is it unreasonable to examine this system in detail? Would it not be
system in detail? Would it not be scientific scientific to examine the history behind the central feature of to examine the history behind the central feature of our political system? Is it not at least conceivable that an understanding of the class system may our political system? Is it not at least conceivable that an understanding of the class system may shed light on the self evident failures of our Constitutional government? Can we do this without shed light on the self evident failures of our Constitutional government? Can we do this without simply being derided as “Socialists” or, god forbid, “Communists”!?
simply being derided as “Socialists” or, god forbid, “Communists”!?
To accomplish this examination, it may be desirable to frame the subject differently and shift To accomplish this examination, it may be desirable to frame the subject differently and shift from “politics” into “ecology”. Not that these two subject are necessarily so different, but it does from “politics” into “ecology”. Not that these two subject are necessarily so different, but it does fall outside of our habitual ways of treating the subject.
fall outside of our habitual ways of treating the subject.
An Ecological theory of Class An Ecological theory of Class
How is the nature of man, and of society, and of government, to be studied or known, but in the How is the nature of man, and of society, and of government, to be studied or known, but in the
history and by the experience of human nature in its terrestrial existence? history and by the experience of human nature in its terrestrial existence?
John Adams John Adams
History (or her-story if you prefer) is not just a collection of facts, it’s a narrative. We use History (or her-story if you prefer) is not just a collection of facts, it’s a narrative. We use selected facts to tell a story that suits our taste. It’s a version of the old tale about three blind selected facts to tell a story that suits our taste. It’s a version of the old tale about three blind
men describing an elephant. Each “sees” an entirely different creature. Similarly, there have men describing an elephant. Each “sees” an entirely different creature. Similarly, there have been a variety of themes used in historical storytelling:
been a variety of themes used in historical storytelling:
●
● Traditionally Traditionally there there was thwas the gree great man at man approacapproach, which, which conch concentrated entrated on thon the one e one percent;percent; major actors like Alexander, Caesar and Charlemagne.
major actors like Alexander, Caesar and Charlemagne. ●
● TherThere is a e is a CyclCyclical thical theory weory which shich sugguggests eests empirempires and cs and civiliivilizatizations rions rise and se and fall, afall, as ifs if driven by some sort of cosmic pendulum.
driven by some sort of cosmic pendulum. ●
● The noThe notion otion of Progf Progress reress represpresents a lients a lineanear histor historicarical theme in wl theme in which hhich humaumanity isnity is
constantly improving. This is really just a warmed over version of Christianity in which a constantly improving. This is really just a warmed over version of Christianity in which a futuristic Utopia has been substituted for the second coming.
futuristic Utopia has been substituted for the second coming. ●
● Some hiSome historstorians coians concenncentrattrate on teche on technolonology. Thigy. This is surely rels is surely relevanevant but is it the drivt but is it the drivinging force?
force? ●
● The MarThe Marxistxists conces concentrantrated on socted on social clasial class and tecs and technohnology bology both, whith, which seech seems a morems a more balanced approach. But they also accepted the notion of progress and this was
balanced approach. But they also accepted the notion of progress and this was problematic
problematic ●
● EconEconomic hisomic historiatorians follns follow the monow the money. Chaey. Charles Berles Beard madard made this schoe this school famool famous.us. ●
● PopuPopular histlar historiaorians (like Howns (like Howard Zinnard Zinn) conce) concentrantrate on regulte on regular peopar people, the ninele, the ninety-nty-nineine percent, which is a nice change from the great man school, but does it explain history? percent, which is a nice change from the great man school, but does it explain history?
But has there ever been an
But has there ever been an Ecological Ecological school of history which explains the evolution of our school of history which explains the evolution of our social and political institutions primarily as selective adaptations allowing some human social and political institutions primarily as selective adaptations allowing some human populations to compete more effectively in the eternal struggle over habitat? Not so far as I populations to compete more effectively in the eternal struggle over habitat? Not so far as I know, but I don’t understand why not. We are terrestrial creatures after all; we exist within the know, but I don’t understand why not. We are terrestrial creatures after all; we exist within the context of the earth’s biosphere and are a part of the complex web of ecological relationships context of the earth’s biosphere and are a part of the complex web of ecological relationships
which describe it. We are born, we grow, we reproduce and we die. Our populations compete which describe it. We are born, we grow, we reproduce and we die. Our populations compete for habitat and are limited by the available resources like all other creatures. Surely these facts for habitat and are limited by the available resources like all other creatures. Surely these facts have a bearing on our history. No theory of history is complete. Each is a model, a
have a bearing on our history. No theory of history is complete. Each is a model, a
simplification, an effort to extract the most important elements from the full complexity of simplification, an effort to extract the most important elements from the full complexity of available information. An ecological interpretation of the class system may also be a gross available information. An ecological interpretation of the class system may also be a gross simplification, but doesn’t it make sense to at least consider this perspective?
simplification, but doesn’t it make sense to at least consider this perspective? Whether we wish to admit it
Whether we wish to admit it or not, or not, humans are primates. As Jared Diamond has humans are primates. As Jared Diamond has noted, tonoted, to any impartial observer “humans” are clearly a variety of Chimpanzee. If you go back far enough any impartial observer “humans” are clearly a variety of Chimpanzee. If you go back far enough our ancestors were naked, inarticulate scavengers with little of note to distinguish them from our ancestors were naked, inarticulate scavengers with little of note to distinguish them from countless other species. Somehow, in the amazingly brief (from a geologic perspective) space countless other species. Somehow, in the amazingly brief (from a geologic perspective) space of a hundred thousand years or so, we elevated ourselves to our current grandeur. This is the of a hundred thousand years or so, we elevated ourselves to our current grandeur. This is the “history” of our “terrestrial existence”. Adams died before Darwin published but surely
“history” of our “terrestrial existence”. Adams died before Darwin published but surely hehe would would have appreciated the implications of Evolution. Human social institutions, like government, did have appreciated the implications of Evolution. Human social institutions, like government, did not arise out of a vacuum, nor were they invented by philosophers. Our ecological history not arise out of a vacuum, nor were they invented by philosophers. Our ecological history created them. Surely this history is relevant to our understanding of these institutions. created them. Surely this history is relevant to our understanding of these institutions.
Today, in the 21st Century, most people seem to feel that the usual rules don’t apply to Today, in the 21st Century, most people seem to feel that the usual rules don’t apply to humans; that whatever our problems may be, they defy analysis in the same terms that we humans; that whatever our problems may be, they defy analysis in the same terms that we would apply to other species. Well perhaps there is truth in this, a species which manipulates would apply to other species. Well perhaps there is truth in this, a species which manipulates nature on the scale that we do does seem to play by different rules. But it wasn't always like this nature on the scale that we do does seem to play by different rules. But it wasn't always like this for us, and if we consider human history from an ecological perspective this may offer us some for us, and if we consider human history from an ecological perspective this may offer us some novel insights. Like every other creature, we adopted social behaviors which suited our means novel insights. Like every other creature, we adopted social behaviors which suited our means of existence; once useful, now these behaviors have become harmful. Understanding how these of existence; once useful, now these behaviors have become harmful. Understanding how these social habits arose may be the first step towards controlling them.
Like
Like many many other other species, species, humans humans are are competitive, territorial competitive, territorial and and violent. violent. Modern Modern humanshumans may sometimes belie this statement, but only on a good day. We justify this behavior with may sometimes belie this statement, but only on a good day. We justify this behavior with customs, codes and legal finery, but in the final analysis we are as primitive as two hyenas customs, codes and legal finery, but in the final analysis we are as primitive as two hyenas fighting over the same carcass. Unsurprisingly, our primate forebears are the same way. Jane fighting over the same carcass. Unsurprisingly, our primate forebears are the same way. Jane Goodall
Goodall had to had to wait a few wait a few years before witnessing her first full-on Chimp years before witnessing her first full-on Chimp “genocide”, but now,“genocide”, but now, after decades of close observation, we know that Chimps are no nicer than humans. They lack after decades of close observation, we know that Chimps are no nicer than humans. They lack weapons but they’re hardly pacifists. And those distant human ancestors who followed the weapons but they’re hardly pacifists. And those distant human ancestors who followed the Chimps weren't so different either. Jared Diamond, who has spent decades observing the Chimps weren't so different either. Jared Diamond, who has spent decades observing the modern remnants
modern remnants of of Paleolithic Paleolithic hunter/gatherer populations, has hunter/gatherer populations, has also noted also noted a a violent streak.violent streak. To paraphrase loosely, he suggests that it was a major event in human history when people first To paraphrase loosely, he suggests that it was a major event in human history when people first learned
learned not not to kill strangers on sight to kill strangers on sight!! These indigenous cultures are already far removed fromThese indigenous cultures are already far removed from Goodall’s Chimps, but there is certainly an undeniable family resemblance.
Goodall’s Chimps, but there is certainly an undeniable family resemblance.
The Earths resources are finite and life is a violent affair. Each species struggles for its niche The Earths resources are finite and life is a violent affair. Each species struggles for its niche in the total environment, specific populations compete with neighboring groups for a domain in the total environment, specific populations compete with neighboring groups for a domain within that hard-won niche and individual creatures fight for place within their respective within that hard-won niche and individual creatures fight for place within their respective
populations. These considerations apply to Chimpanzees, they applied to Paleolithic primates populations. These considerations apply to Chimpanzees, they applied to Paleolithic primates (whom we arbitrarily choose to call “human”) and they applied equally to those Neolithic
(whom we arbitrarily choose to call “human”) and they applied equally to those Neolithic populations which stumbled upon agriculture. Today, we manipulate our environment with populations which stumbled upon agriculture. Today, we manipulate our environment with godlike powers, but our social forms remain the product of an earlier time when humanity was godlike powers, but our social forms remain the product of an earlier time when humanity was still weak, and daily violence was an unavoidable fact of life. If we wish to be less violent today still weak, and daily violence was an unavoidable fact of life. If we wish to be less violent today we should consider how we got that way in the first place.
we should consider how we got that way in the first place.
*** ***
F
F
ollowing the last ice age, our ancestors learned of a new way to acquire food.ollowing the last ice age, our ancestors learned of a new way to acquire food. AgricultureAgriculture allowed hallowed humans to umans to extract suextract sustenance stenance from the efrom the earth more arth more efficiently efficiently than huthan huntingnting and gathering; it was a highly successful adaptation for our species, giving us a huge advantage and gathering; it was a highly successful adaptation for our species, giving us a huge advantage over every other creature. We are told this shift to agriculture was the beginning of “Civilization” over every other creature. We are told this shift to agriculture was the beginning of “Civilization” and clearly it was the beginning of something enormous (whatever we choose to call it) but it and clearly it was the beginning of something enormous (whatever we choose to call it) but it was not the end of our subservience to the fundamental requirements of ecology.
was not the end of our subservience to the fundamental requirements of ecology. Every population (of any
Every population (of any species) will breed and species) will breed and multiply until it reaches a multiply until it reaches a limit limit where thewhere the birth rate and death rate balance each other out. There are fluctuations of course, but behind birth rate and death rate balance each other out. There are fluctuations of course, but behind these fluctuations there is a fundamental ecological relationship based on the full complexity of these fluctuations there is a fundamental ecological relationship based on the full complexity of the earths organic and inorganic systems (in essence, everything from variations in the jet the earths organic and inorganic systems (in essence, everything from variations in the jet stream to the latest mutation of some microbe). For humans, agriculture altered these stream to the latest mutation of some microbe). For humans, agriculture altered these
relationships fantastically, but our species was still subject to the eternal necessity of balancing relationships fantastically, but our species was still subject to the eternal necessity of balancing its population.
its population.
Many of the factors limiting population growth can be labeled as environmental - like Many of the factors limiting population growth can be labeled as environmental - like weather, predation and topography - but in addition to these
weather, predation and topography - but in addition to these externally externally imposed limits there are imposed limits there are also
also self-imposed self-imposed limits. Some creatures will eat the offspring of their rivals, some will eat limits. Some creatures will eat the offspring of their rivals, some will eat theirtheir own
own offspring, and “war” is known even to ants. Consciously or not, each species understands offspring, and “war” is known even to ants. Consciously or not, each species understands the nature of limits and will use violence against its own kind in the service of necessity; either to the nature of limits and will use violence against its own kind in the service of necessity; either to limit competing groups inhabiting a contiguous domain or to eliminate competing individuals limit competing groups inhabiting a contiguous domain or to eliminate competing individuals within a population. Jane Goodall witnessed this behavior among Chimpanzees, Jared Diamond within a population. Jane Goodall witnessed this behavior among Chimpanzees, Jared Diamond has noted it among hunter/gatherers, and all of the same forces continued to apply even after has noted it among hunter/gatherers, and all of the same forces continued to apply even after humans gained agriculture.
If anything,
If anything, agriculture would only have s
agriculture would only have served to intensify
erved to intensify our violent
our violent
tendencies
tendencies
! ! Hunter/gatherers don’t achieve the population density of agricultural humans so Hunter/gatherers don’t achieve the population density of agricultural humans so there are fewer opportunities for conflict between groups, and when hunter/gatherers dothere are fewer opportunities for conflict between groups, and when hunter/gatherers do experience conflict there is presumably a good chance that one group may move, rather than experience conflict there is presumably a good chance that one group may move, rather than fight. But agricultural humans are tied to a specific geographic domain along with their crops, fight. But agricultural humans are tied to a specific geographic domain along with their crops, and agricultural humans achieve far greater population densities than their hunter/gatherer and agricultural humans achieve far greater population densities than their hunter/gatherer relatives, so serious conflict between groups seems much more likely.
relatives, so serious conflict between groups seems much more likely.
In conflicts between hunter/gatherers and farmers, the farmers will normally have the In conflicts between hunter/gatherers and farmers, the farmers will normally have the advantage because of their greater population density and organizational skills. The advantage because of their greater population density and organizational skills. The hunter/gatherers are outnumbered and presumably retreat into the wild. But when the hunter/gatherers are outnumbered and presumably retreat into the wild. But when the hunter/gatherers have all been displaced and a regions agricultural potential has been fully hunter/gatherers have all been displaced and a regions agricultural potential has been fully exploited by various populations of farmers, then the neighboring agricultural populations will exploited by various populations of farmers, then the neighboring agricultural populations will eventually come into conflict when all of the good land has been occupied. It’s inevitable; eventually come into conflict when all of the good land has been occupied. It’s inevitable; oftentimes disease or famine may control the population, precluding the necessity for oftentimes disease or famine may control the population, precluding the necessity for
inter-group conflict, but at some point two agricultural societies expanded into one another. The inter-group conflict, but at some point two agricultural societies expanded into one another. The resolution of this conflict had to be violent.
resolution of this conflict had to be violent.
There is an account in one of the classic histories describing an armed incursion by Gaullist There is an account in one of the classic histories describing an armed incursion by Gaullist settlers into territory claimed by the Romans. When confronted by an envoy over this breach of settlers into territory claimed by the Romans. When confronted by an envoy over this breach of Roman sovereignty the Gaul leader scoffs at their contrived legalistic reasoning:
Roman sovereignty the Gaul leader scoffs at their contrived legalistic reasoning:
We take this land by right of the ancient law which says that men who are hungry will cultivate We take this land by right of the ancient law which says that men who are hungry will cultivate
land which is empty. Evict us if you dare, but you may expect to pay dearly for this earth. land which is empty. Evict us if you dare, but you may expect to pay dearly for this earth. These Northern “barbarians” had a much clearer grasp of reality than the “civilized” Romans. These Northern “barbarians” had a much clearer grasp of reality than the “civilized” Romans. There is little reason to believe this encounter was anything other than a typical event in human There is little reason to believe this encounter was anything other than a typical event in human history.
Form
Form follows follows function. function. Human Human agricultural societies agricultural societies are are designed designed to to do do two two things:things:
●
● extextracract st sustustenenanance ce frofrom thm the ee eartarthh ●
● defedefend (ond (or extr extendend) the ) the domadomain oin of a gf a given iven poppopulatulation.ion.
The specific behavioral features which maximize these functions are universal to all agricultural The specific behavioral features which maximize these functions are universal to all agricultural societies across the globe and they are
societies across the globe and they are as fundamental as fundamental to civilizatito civilization as the on as the wheel and fire. Jobwheel and fire. Job specialization and regimentation; every society has them, and they were (for most of human specialization and regimentation; every society has them, and they were (for most of human history) absolutely essential.
history) absolutely essential.
The peasantry, comprising the bulk of society, worked diligently to produce as much food as The peasantry, comprising the bulk of society, worked diligently to produce as much food as possible, but despite their superior numbers, this group was always controlled by an aristocracy possible, but despite their superior numbers, this group was always controlled by an aristocracy of professional warriors who protected the domain (or realm) from competing groups. This of professional warriors who protected the domain (or realm) from competing groups. This
aristocracy relieved the peasants of their agricultural surplus and also pressed them into service aristocracy relieved the peasants of their agricultural surplus and also pressed them into service as rank and file foot soldiers when needed. A class of lawyers, priests, traders and artisans as rank and file foot soldiers when needed. A class of lawyers, priests, traders and artisans supplemented this arrangement, but most people were peasants, while a relative few
supplemented this arrangement, but most people were peasants, while a relative few concentrated their full energies on warfare and government.
concentrated their full energies on warfare and government.
Human society was organized in conformance with the principles of ecology.
Human society was organized in conformance with the principles of ecology. Population Population levels would be regulated either by famine, disease or violence. Famine and disease may have levels would be regulated either by famine, disease or violence. Famine and disease may have been equally important from a quantitative perspective, but violence provided the organizing been equally important from a quantitative perspective, but violence provided the organizing principle for our social structure. The exploitation of the peasantry was the foundation of all principle for our social structure. The exploitation of the peasantry was the foundation of all military power, and military competition has been the backdrop for all of human history. Right or military power, and military competition has been the backdrop for all of human history. Right or wrong, good and evil; these concepts were irrelevant. Violence was essential to the operation wrong, good and evil; these concepts were irrelevant. Violence was essential to the operation and maintenance of this social organism. The military aristocracy pressed the peasantry as hard and maintenance of this social organism. The military aristocracy pressed the peasantry as hard as possible because their surplus supported the army. If they failed to do this, some stronger as possible because their surplus supported the army. If they failed to do this, some stronger
neighbor would invade and
neighbor would invade and do it for do it for them. them. In fact, there In fact, there is archaeological evidence suggestingis archaeological evidence suggesting that humans were actually much healthier, on average,
that humans were actually much healthier, on average, beforebefore the advent of “civilization”; in the advent of “civilization”; in other words, the aristocracy often pushed the peasantry to the brink of starvation. The stock other words, the aristocracy often pushed the peasantry to the brink of starvation. The stock image of the downtrodden peasant has a real basis in fact. Progress and Civilization, if such image of the downtrodden peasant has a real basis in fact. Progress and Civilization, if such things truly exist, came with a very heavy price tag.
things truly exist, came with a very heavy price tag.
*** ***
By now, this arrangement undoubtedly looks familiar, and the political overtones are By now, this arrangement undoubtedly looks familiar, and the political overtones are inescapable. Yes, it is the same class system alluded to by Adams. In recent centuries the inescapable. Yes, it is the same class system alluded to by Adams. In recent centuries the
aristocracy of professional soldiers has been displaced by a less colorful class of Capitalists, but aristocracy of professional soldiers has been displaced by a less colorful class of Capitalists, but the regimentation of society for the purposes of oppression and conquest is a fact "as old as the regimentation of society for the purposes of oppression and conquest is a fact "as old as creation".
creation". It’s not just a cliché, the It’s not just a cliché, the class system is as real as death class system is as real as death and taxes and and taxes and gravity. Thegravity. The bulk of humanity have been exploited and frequently slaughtered in the service of this social bulk of humanity have been exploited and frequently slaughtered in the service of this social adaptation since the
adaptation since the beginning of beginning of history. Once agriculture was history. Once agriculture was discovered, this behaviordiscovered, this behavior became a
became a necessity. Farming allowed humans to necessity. Farming allowed humans to expropriate a much greater expropriate a much greater share of theshare of the earth's resources, but the price for this success was a grinding mechanistic social system which earth's resources, but the price for this success was a grinding mechanistic social system which keeps "civilization" on a perpetual war footing while simultaneously reducing most humans to keeps "civilization" on a perpetual war footing while simultaneously reducing most humans to the level of interchangeable parts in this evolutionary automaton. It is a machine designed for the level of interchangeable parts in this evolutionary automaton. It is a machine designed for conquest and subjection, without conscience or remorse.
conquest and subjection, without conscience or remorse.
Is this the system that the framers were so intent of protecting? Is the maintenance of this Is this the system that the framers were so intent of protecting? Is the maintenance of this brutalizing social machine the “central problem of government”? If there is even a shadow of brutalizing social machine the “central problem of government”? If there is even a shadow of truth in this supposition then surely we must acknowledge that the perpetuation of this social truth in this supposition then surely we must acknowledge that the perpetuation of this social automaton in the 21st Century represents a dire threat to our health and happiness. In the automaton in the 21st Century represents a dire threat to our health and happiness. In the
framers era, this class system remained the essential basis for all society; they sought to make framers era, this class system remained the essential basis for all society; they sought to make the system run as smoothly as possible and we may admire them for their effort. But
the system run as smoothly as possible and we may admire them for their effort. But contemplate for a moment the manifest insanity of allowing such a mechanism to continue contemplate for a moment the manifest insanity of allowing such a mechanism to continue running in a world where all of the original ecologic parameters have been radically transformed running in a world where all of the original ecologic parameters have been radically transformed and humanity now holds the power to mold its environment and manage its population with and humanity now holds the power to mold its environment and manage its population with science, not violence. What purpose is served by war
science, not violence. What purpose is served by war today? today? Why must there be Why must there be oppression inoppression in the midst of plenty? Regard the modern world and ask yourself; does this not look like the work the midst of plenty? Regard the modern world and ask yourself; does this not look like the work of a machine run amuck?
of a machine run amuck?
*** ***
Despite the straightforward logic of this argument for a an ecological theory of class and Despite the straightforward logic of this argument for a an ecological theory of class and notwithstanding the framers own documented assertions regarding the class-oriented function notwithstanding the framers own documented assertions regarding the class-oriented function of checks and balances, most people will probably find it very difficult to reconcile this view of of checks and balances, most people will probably find it very difficult to reconcile this view of the U.S., as
the U.S., as a a conservative bastion of ancient class divisions, with the conservative bastion of ancient class divisions, with the more acceptedmore accepted
perception of our Republic as a progressive product of the Enlightenment; a modern bulwark of perception of our Republic as a progressive product of the Enlightenment; a modern bulwark of individual liberty. But regardless of the stirring language in the
individual liberty. But regardless of the stirring language in the Declaration of IndependenceDeclaration of Independence,, was the Republic created by the
was the Republic created by the ConstitutionConstitution really so very different from the Feudal forms of really so very different from the Feudal forms of government which still prevailed in Europe at that time?
government which still prevailed in Europe at that time?
The French peasantry which revolted just a few years after the Convention clearly fit the The French peasantry which revolted just a few years after the Convention clearly fit the description of an oppressed agricultural class, but were the Pennsylvania farmers of the description of an oppressed agricultural class, but were the Pennsylvania farmers of the Whiskey Rebellion really so different from their peers on the opposite side of the Atlantic? No Whiskey Rebellion really so different from their peers on the opposite side of the Atlantic? No doubt the Revolution was a watershed moment in American history and certainly life in North doubt the Revolution was a watershed moment in American history and certainly life in North America wa
