In recent news, a judge has granted the Detroit the ability to declare bankruptcy. This, to me, is the least of the worries for Detroit. In the article I read it talks about all of the issues arising due to the lack of funding and money in Detroit. Many of the basic necessities for the city are out of date and city workers such as police and fireman are suffering. In the article it describes how the police drive old cars with no computers, holes in the floor, no air conditioning, and wear bullet proof vests that are out of date. Next, the article discusses how a building caught on fire and the roof collapses, trapping a fire fighter in the building. His tracking device, which was out of date, did not work correctly, making it impossible to find him. He would pass away as the building burned to the ground. The lack of money in Detroit is placing workers and citizens in harms way. I think that the Art reserve must be sold off to raise money. To me this idea of trying to save the art is crazy when things such as fire fighters dying unnecessarily. Something must be done to fix these pressing issues. I think at some point the federal government may need to step in as the citizens of are suffering. At one point emergency response went out for 15 hours. Many citizens could be placed in harms way and a change must be made as the current government in place in Detroit has clearly been careless and ruined the city.

Switzerland CEO pay

I do not think this argument should even be relevant. CEO's should make and receive far more money then share holders of a company as the CEO most likely owns far more shares. The CEO has more experience with the company and should have more authority then everyone else. Share holders hold very small pieces of a company and should only receive an equivalent portion to what they own. The owner of the company is most responsible for the company doing well and not well. When the company does poorly the share holders are more then happy to blame it on the CEO and not share the blame but when things are going well they want the benefits. I find it almost comical that the idea of jail time and loss of salary is being thrown around as the money being made is not the share holders but simply have their hand out asking for more.
The argument of CEO's of companies and top executives making too much money has begun to grow old to me. These individuals have worked hard to put themselves and their business where they are and should be the ones to receive the most profits. Not everything has to be fair and some deserve to make more money then others.
Lastly, I find it interesting that this is occurring in Switzerland as they have a reputation of hiding and allowing those who may not rightfully have money hide it. Out of all the places something like this could arise from, I would not have suspected Switzerland.

Twitter

Twitter is sitting in a very good place right not. Although some are feeling like twitter may have been too cautious, I think they will be fine and continue to have success. They may have missed out on some money, they are going to make far more then that. Twitter played it right and was better off playing it better safe then sorry. Facebook was late to go public but I think twitter made the change at the right time. Facebook and twitter have had similar stories but they are both very different from each other. Twitter is a lot more simple and does not have as much to offer but that can be described as their niche. In order to not have the same fate as Facebook, they will need to make sure that they find ways to keep users interested. Creating new features and uses for the website are a must. Teaming up with Google, I believe, will be very beneficial not only to twitter but also google. Google will be able to help twitter grow in the right way as they have seen similar success. Although the two websites are not the same they are pioneers on the internet and will be great for each other.

Big Foot, Little Bite

The entire situation makes me scratch my head. Obviously these 3 individuals were doing something they should not have been doing but it is unclear what really happened. From the beginning these men should have been straight forward with their tory and not try to cover up what really happened. Even if they are completely truthful from here on out, it makes it difficult to fully trust what they are doing. Right now, all that is clear, a man was shot and a convicted felon was in possession of a firearm. Had the man who had been previously in trouble with the law come forward immediately he would likely be facing less serious charges.
It is interesting to see how much attention this has gained and exactly why is has happened. The story is odd enough, in that a man was shot by a friend while hunting but what they were hunting for; big foot. For years there have been myths and tales about creatures like big foot and society seems to love it. Society likes to imagine things that seem abnormal to us. Most know that these myths are not actually true but in a case like this, apparently these men truly believed it. Myths like these will continue through out history just as it has been passed down. Some of these myths may remain but new ones will form just as the past has shown. It will be interesting to see which current myths fade away and which new ones are created.

Spying on Germany

I do not find it that surprising that the United States is listening to our allies conversations. Although it may not be right, they are looking into their own citizens phone calls so l do not think listening to our Allies would be out of the question. At this time it seems difficult to determine how long the listening took place for or when it stopped but it is interesting how the United States responded. They never actually denied the allegations so in my opinion, it seems likely that this accusation has some accuracy to it. It will also be interesting if President Obama was actually unaware of what was going on. Lastly, I think this could be damaging to many of our current allies, not just Germany. I would think many of our Allies will question if we are doing the same type of thing. The relationship between Germany and the United States may be damaged to some degree but it should not come as a huge shock to the German Government. However, it does not help as early this year some tension occurred as issues similar to this were raised and now something such as this is brought to the light.

Moscow Riot

Those who took a stance on increase patrol and police action are fair in doing so as they have a right to feel safe as citizens. Russians should not feel unsafe as they walk the streets and all citizens of Russia, even immigrants must follow the laws of the country. The big question seems to be whether or not all groups will find a way live amongst each other but it appears that the gap is further increasing. Tension seems to be mounting even further as protests increase in size and damage. Vandalism has become an issue as shops have been broken into. Many arrests have also occurred thus adding to the issue. Migrants came to russia in search of work and were able to help Russia during their oil rush. They often pick up occupations that many other native russians wouldn't otherwise and are helpful in that aspect. If immigrants were able to follow within the laws of the country then I do not see a problem worsening. Until immigrants are able to so the problem will remain unresolved. Russia is not likely to change its laws and regulations to those who are native to the country.

Golden Age of Tv

The Golden Age is an important period of telivision in which increased criticism occurred on many different levels. A focus was placed upon male dominated telivision as more commonly the leading character was a male. Women in the main role was very uncommon in this period. Critics chose to expose and argue that this was in fact sexism. Other reasons for the lack of women roles could be argued. Men often are portrayed in positions where power, control and, violence occurs. These characteristcs are what viewers want to see instead of business women as the article mentioned. A businesswomen is a much more common day to day think, as a violent power hungry male allows an individual to imagine and think outside of the box. Most people live the basic work day such as a businesswomen and the other role gives a look into an unknown experience. Additionally, producers and directors make TV shows that the believe the public will like. If there was a demand for roles with dominant women in this period of time, more then likely, a show would have been created. Although it may not be viewed as sexist or unfair towards women, individuals must keep in mind TV is created for the viewer and what 'they' as a whole would like.

Government Shutdown

On the verge of the federal government shutdown, both Republicans and Democrats must find a way to compromise as many Americans will be greatly affected. Those labeled in "unessential" government will have to go home with out pay creating even more issues for Americans. Those working in "essential“ government jobs could have their pay delayed as the funding for each agency has yet to be determined. Although the debt reaching its limit or the "ceiling" we must find away to keep the federal government going as well as address the issue of the debt. The debt is a real issue that must be properly handled but we cannot give up the way in which we as Americans are governed.  A New York Republican, Michael Grimm, claimed that this is not the attitude of the majority of republicans and "...isn't reflective of mainstream Republicans--it projects an image of not being reasonable. The vast majority of republicans are pretty level-headed and are here to govern". Both sides have been firm on their stances and this has caused a huge issue in regards to the budget. Republicans have been fighting Obamacare and have been successful in delaying if for a year. This is being to show how politics has had a major shift in their goals. Instead of working together both parties are focused on blocking the other sides agenda and less focused on compromise. In the past, political parties were able to find middle ground, representing all citizens to some degree. Now it has been made clear that it is one way or another or no ones bills/ideas can be passed. Americans are going to suffer from the two parties actions and the inability to find a common ground. Americans are out of work temporarily and other basic amenities as an American citizen are taken away. Congress must find a way to move past the parties and find a compromise that is fair and equal to both parties.

Kenya Attacks

Over the past few years many attacks have been carried out by various groups. Many innocent people have lost their lives from these senseless killings. The killings are carried out by manly al-shabad and al-queda groups as al-shabad as pledged allegiance to Osama Bin Laden back when he was in power. All of the killings carry similar traits, no remorse for what is happening by the killers and no target for the murdering. Each attack intends to kill as many as possible with intentions of inflicting as much damage as possible. The alliance between Al-shabad and Al-Queda began as the United States involvement in Kenya increased as the U.S. aided invasions in Somalia. The dominant power agreed to take on a "Transitional Federal Government" enraging the Al-shabad. As these killings begin to escalate to new levels the United States is placed in a difficult position. Part of the blame could easily be placed upon the United States for the role in what is going on. On the other hand, if the U.S. were to intervene further a huge target would be placed upon the U.S. and even have the potential to cause more violence. Although the United States has somewhat of an obligation to intervene the best thing that can be done is to stay uninvolved. The U.S. has a tendency has get involved in things that they have no business in. Some would argue enough damage has been done and the U.S. would only make things worse for the innocent people.

Naval Yard Shooting

The tragedy at the ship yard was much of a shock to the United States. Twelve people lost their lives from Aaron Alexis as he opened fire upon them with a sawed-off shotgun. Video show the shooter calmly walked from room to room shooting. The video appeared not to be looking for a specific person but anyone the shooter could find. Alexis was in the Navy reserve from 2007 to 2011 until he was discharged.
Alexis has some what of a violent histroy. In 2004, Alexis was arrested for shooting out the tired on a victims car. Alexis claimed he did not remember doing so as he "blacked out". Another incident occurred in 2010 when Alexis discharged a weapon inside of his apartment complex going through the ceiling and the above floor. Several days before the Naval Yard shooting another incident occurred at an airport but did not involve a firearm. Police spoke with the suspect and he claimed to hear voices speaking to him and 3 people were following him.
More should have been done regarding his past actions. No one could have for seen this occurring but maybe help could have been given. The suspect was not in his right state of mind. Additionally, the article describes how the scene may have not be responded to in the correct way. The chief believed that more men were needed to properly protect the Naval Yard. This is an interesting piece that was brought up

19, Richard A. Serrano September. "Navy Yard Shooter Attacked 'calmly,' FBI Chief Says." Los Angeles Times. Los Angeles Times, 19 Sept. 2013. Web. 24 Sept. 2013. <http://www.latimes.com/nation/la-na-navy-shooter-fbi-20130920,0,5982301,full.story>.

"What We Know: All The Facts Regarding Yesterday’s Navy Yard Shooting." The Frisky. N.p., n.d. Web. 24 Sept. 2013. <http://www.thefrisky.com/2013-09-17/what-we-know-all-the-facts-regarding-yesterdays-navy-yard-shooting/>.

Conflict in Syria

The issue in Syria has been a problem that has been occurring for a long time but began to recieve coverage after civilians were fired upon during a protest by authorities. Theses various protests can be referred to as Arab Springs and were the turning point in which the civil war began. The conflict has claimed over 100,000 civilians lives(Desk). Chemical weapons, Sarin gas, have been used on citizens, even killing women and children. This is inhumane as chemical weapons do not target a specific person or group but an entire area. This weapon is designed to hurt the masses rather than on a smaller scale. President described the killing as an "assault on human dignity" and looks for the United States to intervene but is waiting for the approval of congress. Many innocent civilians have been killed by the government with no regard for their death.
Not only has the country suffered greatly due to the loss of many citizens but also in other areas. Unemployment has increased by 5 times as well as major hits to the economy, decreasing many businesses. Over 2 million refugees have fled to neighboring countries in search of a better place to live(Desk).
In cases such as the one in Syria, the United Nation must act out. This is why the organization is set in place. It is the responsibility of the U.N. to help those in need while they are unable to help themselves. The U.N. must step up and act as need to in situations like the one present here

Desk, News. "Updated: Your Cheat Sheet to the Syrian Conflict." PBS. PBS, 02 Sept. 2013. Web. 17 Sept. 2013. <http://www.pbs.org/newshour/rundown/2013/09/your-cheat-sheet-to-the-syrian-conflict.html>.

Hutcheson and Smith

Sympathy, as pointed out by Smith, comes from placing ones self in a similar situation and imaging the feeling they are experiencing. Although we may not have been the same situation, we attempt to rationalize what is going on with another human.  Humans tend to relate to other humans and sympathy is a piece of that.  Humans want to share the same feelings even if we don't know what it exactly is they are going through. Smith says "...we have no immediate experience of what other men feel, we can form no idea of the manner in which they are affected, but by conceiving what we ourselves should feel in the like situation."(Online) depicting accuratley how exactly sympathy comes to be through our imagination.
Man kind as a whole works better off a compassion, gentleness, and good manners rather then ill-intended and malicious actions. Hume makes a valid point arguing that a society with   respect and admiration is far more enjoyable. Respect and admiration lead to competition which can also be beneficial to humanity as all humans have some degree of jealousy about them. This can lead to increased ambition and drive to do more then and individual might otherwise do.  In reality groups from and this does not always occur. These cliques look to benefit themselves and those who are around them with little regard for those that are around.
"Online Library of Liberty." Online Library of Liberty. N.p., n.d. Web. 11 Sept. 2013.

FYS-Furman 2

Man is made to compete and strive for what is best for the individual.  Competition leads to hard work, not envy, which can often be confused. Using others success to motivate and drive leads to positive outcomes. A civilisation with no competition makes no advances. Individuals must make decision to place themselves in a better position and move up in the world. Men tend to pursue "...competition,... diffidence and,... glory"(The Levinthan)  as their driving factors. These three descriptions summarize how males operate and and their decision making process.  Regardless of the decision made, someone is likely left unhappy with an individuals choice. Individuals must act in the best interest of themselves to some degree while ensuring not to harm those that they are around. A society with competition is progressive and new boundaries are broken. A society in which individuals work towards goals makes for improvements and an overall better atmosphere. Limitations set can affect this and hinder a groups advancements.
Laws are made to protect and better a society but often only benefit some. Sometimes it is necessary to break the rules or laws in order to obtain something that you would not otherwise. A governing body is allowed to create laws that must be followed solely because this body is in charge. Men must be able to make decisions and actions as they are beneficial for them. Judgement is left after society sets laws upon them. Individuals must make decisions based on moral codes and that is in the best interest of them. Although consequences are common from not following laws, the responsibility still rests on the individual. At times, it is necessary to oppose a law and stand against it, regardless of the consequences. Men must understand that change can occur and is often for the best.

"The Leviathan by Thomas Hobbes." The Leviathan by Thomas Hobbes. N.p., n.d. Web. 04 Sept. 2013.

"Online Library of Liberty." Online Library of Liberty. N.p., n.d. Web. 04 Sept. 2013.

Many of the current economic issues the United States is facing is the responsibility of not only the current government but also their predecessors. The over involvement of the government has lead to a reduction of jobs, increased the import of goods, and high overall dollar value. The Federal Reserve Board and the Treasury have enormous ability to influence the value of the dollar. A high dollar makes U.S. goods and services less competitive in the world economy. The increase in manufacturing jobs oversees is one of the results of the high value of the U.S. dollar. Companies saw great opportunities to increase profit through globalizing manufacturing and eliminating much of the domestic manufacturing industry. U.S. multinational corporations have had job reductions of 2.9 million domestically and a transition of 2.4 million jobs sent overseas.

The continued irresponsibility of our governments and lack of in depth into real issues continues. Claims are made about rising stock prices and a good housing market but in reality this does not reflect the United States as a whole. The stock owners and homeowners benefit from these rises but the majority of the country does not fall into this category. For citizens looking to purchase homes it makes if more difficult thus increasing the already large gap between the nations wealthy and middle class.Since homeowners as a group tend to be wealthier than non- homeowners, it is hardly progressive to support the upward redistribution of wealth implied by higher home prices(Baker). These measurements of the housing and stock markets are a piece of the United States economy but do not accurately sum up the economy as a whole. Additional information is vital to determine the current state in which the United States stands. A collective effort of the United States government is needed to fix the current state of the economy. Incentives are needed to keep jobs domestic as well as a hands off approach as to not increasing the price of products and services. Over speculation of the current state of the U.S. leads to big issues that are prevalent. 

Baker, Dean. The End of Loser Liberalism: Making Markets Progressive. Washington, D.C.: Center for Economic and Policy Research, 2011. Print.