Nationalism is a most touchy subject. People prefer the term “Patriotism” and slide over the nationalistic characteristics of their beliefs and what the advocacy of those beliefs would actually signify.  In fact, it is difficult to discuss or write about nationalism in a negative vein. People are naturally hostile to an attack on what they feel is a positive attribute that all sensible people should share.

The latest Ann Coulter rant is a screed typical of her M. O. and with the same egregious fallacy as the other anti-immigrant groups such as FAIR, NumbersUSA, VDare, CIS and worse, insist on holding.

This Monday on the Neil Cavuto show, Monica Crowley repeated a statement that I often hear from Conservatives but in spite of its frequency never ceases to shock me. I would guess it is because I still hold out hope that conservatives will awaken from their convoluted position of being anti-immigrant, and realize its horrific roots.  Now, now, do not begin the mantra, “But we are only against illegal immigration, not legal.” I would like to shout, “Impossible!” Since I truly desire to use reason, I try to speak softly. It is an issue of individualism as opposed to the immorality of the collectivist ideology of nationalism.

Lately it seems whether I am with relatives, good friends, on line or doing a radio interview the majority of people who disagree vehemently with me on immigration are Conservatives. I actually have pretty harsh words for Democrats too, as I think both groups are only concerned with the Latino vote and care nothing about the principles they should be upholding. So much for civil liberties for all people, free markets and allowing peaceful exercise of meaningful choice. 

After every strange tragedy involving maniacal, unexplainable mass murders, gun ownership soars. More people take classes and acquire their Concealed Carry Permits. People flood the gun shows buying more guns and ammunition. Readership of more freedom oriented magazines and web sites increases. Pro gun organizations add many new members. A pall of fear that guns will be confiscated grows. 

If you missed Stossel on the night of February 22, it was his best yet. Agree or disagree with Stossel, it was a valuable hour. He had three well-known people representing the opposite perspective to libertarianism. The young libertarians, who were there for a conference, were invited to question the three experts.

This week another of many similar emails which seem to persist in making the rounds of the "Conservative Circuit" was sent to my attention. Perhaps knowing my strong stance on the importance of private property, which is simply what gun ownership is, my friend thought, very erroneously, that I would agree with all the points expressed and pass on the positive story and its secondary message.

Subject: Re: Emailing: Ayn Rand Queen of the Universe.htm

This morning I was emailed this article by a good friend but a misguided Democrat.

I am sure it is well researched and factual as it was written by the brilliant authors Thom Hartman and Sam Sacks and featured as the height of knowledgeable and informative commentary in the outstanding publication Truthout. 

Yeah sure. 

For those who do not know me, the above is my attempt at total sarcasm.

They are Liberal — Not!

A quick sample of recent news headlines suffices to prove my point. Names have been changed to protect the not so innocent.

I am even a skeptic about being a skeptic. I might just be curious and want proof for everything.

A friend remarked to me that it is basically futile for the ordinary person to make a difference in this world. Although there are times I feel that way, those periods do not last for long. Something evolves that proves to me that even one person can have enormous influence. Think of it this way; civilization has truly progressed only because individuals stood up against barbarianism. Individual action has eventually been the determining impetus for change.

“OK Pickles, it’s your turn. Let’s see, what will it be? A candy Bar? Nah. Ice Cream Sandwich or Popsicle? Even on a hot day like today? Licorice?” I kept nodding my head, ”No” but all the while I knew it was a game. The small grocery was a favorite destination for us mature graduates of First Grade. With a nickel clenched tightly in our fist we would walk or roller skate to the small store and buy a magnificent treat.

What is nationalism and why is it dangerous? How can one contend that it is dangerous? I imagine the next statement probably would be, “These ideas against ‘nationalism’ are terrible and so unpatriotic!” quickly followed by the always proverbial fall-back comment, “Well, If you do not like it here, leave!”

"Buy USA" is a very popular slogan and you have probably even received emails from well meaning friends urging you to only buy products "Made in the USA." This, we are assured, will result in more jobs for American workers and more factories here. Some very popular (well not the ones I admire) but well known economists agree with this. Certainly many politicians tout this mantra frequently. Let us, though, tear this common idea apart and see if it passes the logic test.

I want to wish all people everywhere, a wondrous and fulfilling Thanksgiving.

Last year at this time I explained how, since reading Governor Bradford's Diary in my freshman year in college, I have made Thanksgiving my personally "most treasured" family and friend day.