(originally posted at DailyKos, reposted here for a more deliberative discussion)

Modernity and the Pyrrhic Conquest of Nature

The industrial revolution and capitalism’s overthrow of the millennia-old feudal order transformed humanity’s tools radically, just as the subsequent discovery of petroleum catalyzed a manifold augmentation of their power. Thermodynamics holds that we get nothing for free, but here was a relatively cheap, and, at the time, boundless source of energy. These unparalleled events set in motion the development of modernity: uniquely among living things, humans were freed from the need to establish balance with the immediate ecosystem; a particular environment’s carrying capacity now correlated with the quality of infrastructure far more than any natural characteristics. The population exploded, and civilization became a force rivaling nature.

A fun discussion for the weekend even if it is unlikely. Promoted by Specter

(Originally posted, in slightly modified form, at DailyKos)

Bipartisan Impeachment?!

It sounds ludicrous, doesn’t it? But this crackpot idea is so crazy, it might just work.

THE IMPETUS

Bush threatens our republic’s existence. This isn’t alarmism—his continuation in office has consequences: a catastrophic war with Iran, a fiscal trainwreck, irreparable erosion of cherished liberties in the wake of another terrorist atrocity comparable to 9/11, or some combination, are possible; deepening entanglement in Iraq, mulish stagnation on national priorities, and chronic abuses of power are expected; needless Iraqi and American deaths are certain. Worse yet, our country will endure the pernicious ramifications of his reign for decades after he vacates the White House.