the power of Socialism FOR Individuals

There are many people out there that bash Socialism and praise Capitalism. While I agree that Capitalism plays an important role in allowing individuals to pursue their own agendas, I also think that there are vast benefits that we enjoy that are, in fact, Socialist manifestations in our society today. I live in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and one of the best things about living here is the freedom to explore and use what is mostly government owned land. In fact, approximately 97% of the surrounding area is owned by the government. This land is what allows me the freedom to explore Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone National Park, the Gros Ventre Wilderness, Bridger-Teton National Forest, and many other government owned lands. Because of these lands, I can flyfish the Gros Ventre River... I can hike Snow King Mountain and gaze at the amazing surrounding untouched, government-owned landscape. I can drive five minutes to fish Flat Creek that is located on the National Elk Refuge and catch a 22 inch Cutthroat Trout. All of these things would be impossible to enjoy if it weren't for all of this government owned land. Like it or not, this is Socialism. Socialism at it's best. If Capitalism where in complete control here, all of this amazing land would be owned by the elite few...Old Faithful would erupt in a billionaire's back yard...a private ranch owner would be the only one fishing my favorite section of the Gros Vente...the Grand Teton would be located on a CEO's private estate.

From my perspective, Capitalism is purely based on individual needs and ignores the collective whole. I think because Capitalism is purely based on individual needs, that it is vastly inferior to what we as a whole, can achieve and provide to individuals. If we can get over our desire for complete individual control, I think we can achive much greater things and actually provide a better life for individuals. I think that the reason certain Socialist regimes have failed is because those regimes were, in fact, turned over to a few individuals to control completely and, in fact, were not true Socialist countries. If we can get to the point of providing Socialism that is controlled by the whole of the nation and give enough freedom to individuals to continue their own pursuits within a framework established and controlled by the whole, then individuals will prosper much more fully than what Capitalism has to offer.

Flying under pressure

In my dreams I often get to fly. However, I always seem to have some element of gravity that I can't let go of - it feels as if my body is a day old helium balloon that hovers about 2' below the ceiling. I usually get to fly if I'm trying to get away from danger. So far, I've had enough helium to escape the evil imposter spirits posing as my family or friends- just as they come to get me.

More Stuff = Less Freedom

Irony of Fast Technology

The irony of technology is - although it initially impresses us with its ability to do things faster for us (and appearing to give us more time for other things)...soon, we and others we work for expect this and we have to maintain this level of speed - so we actually end up in more of a hurry and actually more dependent on the technology.

3d camera / scanner

A camera that photographs space that can be scaled and downloaded for use in CAD, Google Earth, etc. It does this through the combination of lasers that detect dimensions - and GPS that determines specific location/elevation, and video so it can photograph many different perspectives. This would benefit the construction industry in determining very accurate as-built/site conditions.

super-efficient market rate housing

An idea for affordable market rate housing for Jackson Hole and similar challenged communities (see image). This could help fill the demand for housing but still allow developers to make a profit and be motivated to build more of these. The mortgage would be smaller or equal to what room rental rates currently go for (and those are typically in old condos with several other roommates. While small in size, they would provide all necessities and reflect the lifestyle of those who search for a refined,reduced lifestyle. This also reduces the environmental impact of each person.

Reality needs Fantasy

To be a realist also means to cut through all the so called "practical" limitations we ignorantly impose upon ourselves. So, the truth is, reality needs fantasy to create progress.