Once in a graduate school seminar, one of my professors asked the class, “Does man really create new ideas, or are the same ideas presented over time?” Well, as we discussed this concept, we came to the general conclusion, that there are no real new ideas, just new ways of presenting these ideas. In particular, there are fundamental truths.
United States, One Nation Under God
America is a blessed nation. We recognize that fundamental rights are so precious because they are God-given and government, at best, can only protect them.
“America is great because she is good and as long as she is good, she will be great.” Alexis de Tocqueville.
American Exceptionalism
America is a special place. That is why we are a nation of immigrants bonded by the ideas of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness instead of a common ethnicity or race.
America is that shining city on hill and man’s last and best hope that freedom and equality are achievable earthly ends.
Constitutionalism
The “G” in government does not stand for god. Government is not an all-encompassing entity. We have a supreme law or a constitution on the national and state level that recognizes that the people are sovereign and through periodic elections, the people loan power to the government temporarily.
Our constitutions restrict government to a few clearly defined powers and the people expect their government to do those few tasks very well.
Socialism Does not Work
Despite well intentions or other names assigned, socialism does not work. Large state run programs that promise free health care and generous welfare benefits eventually bankrupt the government.
Increasing Taxes. Government Spending and Debt Do not Create Wealth
If high taxes, increased government spending, and amassing deficits were the key to economic growth, then California, not Texas would be the state expected to lead the nation out the recent economic slump and the global economy would be looking to Greece, not the United States for economic leadership.
When taxes are decreased, government revenues for education, roads, and public safety increase.
Americans Have a Constitutional Right to Bear Arms
The most profound point about Monday’s Supreme Court ruling, which struck down the punitive gun control ordinances in Chicago, is that such a question concerning the people’s right to own a firearm for their public safety was even before the Court.
Moreover, the Court affirmed this constitutional right by a 5-4 margin. The 2nd Amendment is the ultimate check on government tyranny and an acknowledgement that a free people have the virtue to win and use means of physical power.
