# articles

feed_id: 74752ac1301da76c50cf84059fd24cf5
title: Torturing prisoners
uri: 2021-11-07-Torturing-prisoners
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_%28Torturing_prisoners%29
content:
<p>

Thugs in the Oklahoma City jail tortured prisoners by <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/05/oklahoma-county-jail-baby-shark-torture-tactics-lawsuit">making them stand
for hours</a>, as well as other methods.
<p>
Playing the baby shark song probably won't cause the same physical
pain and damage that standing for hours can cause.  But if they play
it too loud, it could damage the victim's hearing.


feed_id: 76d2b03059615e3b20ffadaa3c4cfaaa
title: Charging for parking
uri: Charging-for-parking
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_%28Charging_for_parking%29
content:
<p>

Arguing that <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/05/us-free-parking-spaces-climate-cost">charging for parking benefits a city</a> in many ways,
because the space near the curb gets made available for better uses
and people use cars less.
<p>
To make this truly beneficial, the city has to have copious mass
transit.  Buses must be frequent enough that the precise schedule is
of no importance.


feed_id: c3b457ddcc5d3f5b108e123d9f4d193a
title: American women that can't work
uri: American-women-that-can-t-work
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_%28American_women_that_can%27t_work%29

content:
<p>

Many American women can't work because they <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/05/childcare-us-women-workforce">can't find, or can't
afford, childcare</a>.
<p>
One could argue that if a parent's can't find work that pays for the
cost of childcare, it's more efficient for the parent to stay home and
take care of per own children.  Yes, indeed &mdash; provided we have a
welfare system that gives per an income to support the family.


feed_id: 9396d79c33d1b00fcdfce1604c71e484
title: Nuclear weapons limitation
uri: Nuclear-weapons-limitation
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_%28Nuclear_weapons_limitation%29
content:
<p>

Democrats urged Biden to push for a <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/04/dems-urge-biden-reduce-nuclear-weapons-risks-summit-chinese-president">nuclear weapons limitation</a> with
China.


feed_id: 806a87e6d98023c981a87f4fac8ce199
title: Servers for the US military
uri: Servers-for-the-US-military
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_%28Servers_for_the_US_military%29
content:
<p>

Google seeks to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2021/11/03/technology/google-pentagon-artificial-intelligence.html">run servers for the US military</a>.
<p>
Governments must never entrust the operation of their servers to an
outside entity, because <a href="https://gnu.org/government/">the state must have control of its computing</a>.


feed_id: 33a877ac80c1909d262bca739dee6f35
title: Ultrawealthy politicians
uri: Ultrawealthy-politicians
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_%28Ultrawealthy_politicians%29
content:
<p>

*How These Ultrawealthy [US] Politicians <a href="https://www.propublica.org/article/how-these-ultrawealthy-politicians-avoided-paying-taxes">Avoided Paying Taxes</a>.*


feed_id: 23a955bc4bb0fa0b871734e042711818
title: Seagrass meadows
uri: Seagrass-meadows
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_%28Seagrass_meadows%29
content:
<p>

Replanting destroyed seagrass meadows by hand is a crucial method of
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/05/seagrass-meadows-could-turn-tide-of-climate-crisis-aoe">restoring the ocean's ability to sequester CO2</a>.
<p>
It can also provide employment.


feed_id: 4e6db2a725821ab79a94fc7307b57057
title: Prison Arts Collective
uri: Prison-Arts-Collective
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_%28Prison_Arts_Collective%29
content:
<p>

The Prison Arts Collective <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2021/nov/05/prison-arts-collective-california">teaches art in prisons in the US</a>.
Beyond enriching their lives, it can also help them learn to live
outside prison.


feed_id: 112675835e26f60d46537a379f8b5fc6
title: Paterson debacle
uri: Paterson-debacle
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_%28Paterson_debacle%29
content:
<p>

*The Paterson [corruption] debacle shows that Johnson no longer has
advisers &mdash; <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/05/paterson-debacle-johnson-no-longer-advisers-courtiers">he has courtiers</a>.*  Bogus Johnson repeatedly shrugs off
criticism of his own corrupt acts, and the Tory MPs just barely learned
to resist this to eliminate all checks on their corruption.


feed_id: 63f940bafa012200c198433735bb6d6b
title: Zhang Zhan
uri: Zhang-Zhan
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_%28Zhang_Zhan%29
content:
<p>

China jailed Zhang Zhan for publishing reports on the initial Covid-19
outbreak in China.  She has been on a hunger strike, and reportedly is
<a href="https://rsf.org/en/news/china-rsf-urges-release-covid-19-reporter-who-faces-impending-death">weak and close to dying</a>.
<p>
Reporters Without Borders reminds us that other writers and publishers
are in prison in China for publishing.


feed_id: ffbb773297cf037a5c9dd67fa6d5b7a5
title: McAuliffe campaign
uri: McAuliffe-campaign
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_%28McAuliffe_campaign%29
content:
<p>

*Left Coalition Says McAuliffe Campaign Was a '<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/03/left-coalition-says-mcauliffe-campaign-was-controlled-experiment-what-not-do-2022">Controlled Experiment</a>
for What Not to Do in 2022'.  Either excite voters with a bold agenda
or risk losing power to the GOP.*


feed_id: db2581cc46241a373be0774e3893d924
title: Economic growth
uri: 2021-11-07-Economic-growth
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_%28Economic_growth%29
content:
<p>

Questioning the goal, the possibility, and the <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/03/limits-economic-growth-and-climate-crisis">idea of economic growth</a>.
<p>
Economic growth, if it includes the non-rich, offers the opportunity
of a truce in the class war: if we divide the gains fairly, we can all
work together.  But fair division is not assured; indeed, it is
unlikely today.  What that suggests is that we had better focus
on how the world's income is divided.
<p>
While continued economic growth may be impossible, that doesn't
mean further growth is impossible for the next few decades.
It is true that using more resources has the potential to
backfire &mdash; but that result is not inevitably big enough to be
a real problem.

<p>
<a href="../articles/children.html ">Reducing the birth rate</a> so as to start reducing the human population
is a safe and ethical way to enable each of us to have more of some
things that make life more comfortable and enjoyable.


feed_id: 8e7721c74da9cf217bd96959ff0439d4
title: Extinction Rebellion protested at Cop26
uri: 2021-11-07-Extinction-Rebellion-protested-at-Cop26
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_%28Extinction_cop26_greenwashing%29
content:
<p>
Extinction Rebellion protested at Cop26 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/03/greenwashing-murder-climate-movement-marches-against-polluters-lies-glasgow">against apparent greenwashing.</a>

<p>
The <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#thug">thugs</a> are 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/04/cop26-protesters-urge-sturgeon-to-act-over-intimidating-policing">threatening protesters and blocking protests.</a>


feed_id: 3b3e28e968c663774f418568364a8e37
title: Restoring mangrove swamps
uri: 2021-11-07-Restoring-mangrove-swamps
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_%28Mangrove_swamps_carbon_sea%29
content:
<p>
*Restoring mangrove swamps could be an effective way of 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/04/can-blue-carbon-make-offsetting-work-these-pioneers-think-so">sequestering
large amounts of carbon in the sea.</a>*
<p>
I see two possible problems with it.
<ul>
<li>
The amount that can be done is limited by the length of suitable
shoreline that can be used.
</li>
<li>
Whatever mangroves people restore,
sea-level rise could destroy in a few decades.
Will that release the carbon they will have sequestered?
</li>
</ul>


feed_id: 74e5645da5321072d9484be95a6736ed
title: My life without a smartphone is getting harder and harder
uri: 2021-11-07-My-life-without-a-smartphone-is-getting-harder-and-harder
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_%28Life_without_smartphone%29
content:
<p>
Author Jen Wasserstein says, 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/04/my-life-without-a-smartphone-is-getting-harder-and-harder">"My life without a smartphone is getting
harder and harder."</a>

<p>
Good on her to resist, but she should stop doubting the rightness of
her resistance.
<p>
It is interesting to compare her account my own experiences this year
without any portable phone whatsoever, in Europe as well as the US.
There were inconvenient moments, but I always got through them.
<p>
I am fortified in my resistance by knowing powerful moral reasons to
condemn portable phones.  It's not just that I find their effect on
other people alarming.  I recognize them as a threat to democracy 

<a href="https://gnu.org/philosophy/surveillance-vs-democracy.html">due
to their massive general surveillance</a>

<p>
as well as an injustice to each user (due to their remotely
modifiable nonfree software).  As a result, I never feel abashed about
rejecting them, nor ashamed if the ignorant look askance.  I am proud
of my resistance.
<p>
When a waiter tells me to scan a QR code, I move my finger slowly over
it while staring at it intently, as if a menu should magically appear.
After sufficient time, I may say, "It doesn't seem to be working."
Try it, it's fun!
<p>
Please join me in resisting the pressure to make everyone run nonfree
software. 

<a href="https://gnu.org/philosophy/saying-no-even-once.html">Even if you only say no once, saying no even once is helping.</a>
<p>
And once you've said no the first time, the second time is easier.


feed_id: 65d422e41f860a791b6ae704b66b73be
title: Toxic cocktail
uri: 2021-11-07-Toxic-cocktail
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_%28Invisible_toxic_cocktail%29
content:
<p>
*"Invisible Toxic Cocktail" in 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/03/invisible-toxic-cocktail-tap-water-across-us-due-regulatory-capture-analysis">Tap Water Across US Due to "Regulatory
 Capture".*</a>
<p>
Many poisonous substances found in tap water 
<a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/11/01/epa-toxic-chemicals-reports-withheld/">are not regulated at
all by the EPA.</a> These include the PFAs plus many more.


feed_id: abfd7e7ee003218e984a97de7a530709
title: Push on green energy and cars
uri: 2021-11-07-Push-on-green-energy-and-cars
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_%28Push_on_green_energy_and_cars%29
content:
<p>
* UK, US and China among countries representing two-thirds of global
   economy to agree to push green energy and cars.* They plan to make
   many technologies cheaper and make them available to the whole
   world, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/02/world-leaders-announce-plan-to-make-green-tech-cheaper-than-alternatives">starting with clean electricity, electric vehicles, green
   steel, elecrolytic hydrogen and sustainable farming</a>.

<p>
This won't make the <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#global heating">global heating</a> problem fix itself &mdash; we will still need
to end deforestation, and fund quick adoption of these new solutions.
That will require a lot of investment in poor countries.


feed_id: 2e069503e5ea14e5de12765b56da6a42
title: A San Francisco thug is charged
uri: 2021-11-07-A-San-Francisco-thug-is-charged
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_%28Sf_thug_sean_moore%29
content:
<p>
A San Francisco <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#thug">thug</a> is charged with manslaughter for 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/02/san-francisco-police-kenneth-cha-charged-sean-moore">escalating a
nonviolent encounter</a>
with Sean Moore to the point of killing him.


feed_id: 2ce741d1f61803a787a089616b466083
title: Push to curb global heating
uri: 2021-11-07-Push-to-curb-global-heating
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_%28Archbishop_global_heating_nazi%29

content:
<p>
The Archbishop of Canterbury presented clearly how much is at stake
when political leaders decide how hard to push to curb <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#global heating">global heating</a>:
inadequate effort could 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2021/nov/01/justin-welby-apologises-for-likening-climate-threat-to-nazis">result in a much bigger genocide</a>
 than the one
Hitler launched.
<p>
Apparently some criticized this statement as disrespectful to Jews,
and he apologized for the alleged disrespect.  This criticism puzzles
me, because I don't see any disrespect in his words.  They seem
entirely valid to me as a statement of the danger that we face.
What are you going to compare the biggest genocide of all time with,
other than the biggest known genocide of the past?
<p>
I think that 6 billion deaths from <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#climate">climate mayhem</a> is plausible.  Of
course, that's just handwaving -- we can't know enough to make more
than a rough estimate.  If we take effective action and are lucky,
perhaps only a few hundred million will die from climate disorder.  If
we run into surprise positive feedbacks, all 7-8 billion humans could
die from climate disorder. All depends on how effectively we curb
<a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#global heating">global heating</a>.


feed_id: f567a1eddba8b590e1655bc66774ff5b
title: An analysis of global heating
uri: 2021-11-07-An-analysis-of-global-heating
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_%28Global_heating_pressure_blocs%29
content:
<p>
An analysis of <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#global heating">global heating</a> world politics in 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/01/cop26-battle-capitalism-talks-countries-protest-movements">terms of three pressure blocs.</a>
<p>
I disagree with the author's final point.  The crucial priority in
decarbonizanion is not fairness, it is rapidity.
<p>
Going too slow, which the world's governments' current plans would to
do, risks causing the collapse of civilization and the death of nearly
everyone.  Even if those deaths are distributed "fairly", that would
still be a bad outcome.  We must at all costs act fast enough to
minimize the damage.


feed_id: 8b47ba4c1379c523835c909b5896ad44
title: Global heating in time
uri: 2021-11-07-Global-heating-in-time
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_%28Curb_global_heating_worse%29
content:
<p>
Governments democratic in form have not made an adequate effort
to curb <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#global heating">global heating</a> in time, but authoritarian rulers
are 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/books/2021/nov/01/the-big-idea-is-democracy-up-to-the-task-of-climate-change">generally doing much worse.</a>
<p>
The article suggests, and I agree, that more and better democracy is
what we need.  I put a name to the problem: plutocracy, where
democracy ought to be.


feed_id: c3c9e4e8b1f87ecf0035a6dda056126f
title: Debunking the Philadelphia thugs' cynical report
uri: 2021-11-07-Debunking-the-Philadelphia-thugs-cynical-report
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_%28Pa_thug_bystander_rape%29
content:
<p>
Debunking the Philadelphia <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#thug">thugs</a>' cynical report: in fact, some
bystanders did take action when a 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/01/philadelphia-police-bystanders-filming-mistaken-narrative/">rape was committed on a Philadelphia
subway train.</a>


feed_id: 8cc219a7062d9d1e58921d27c452eb03
title: City employees and vaccination
uri: 2021-11-07-City-employees-and-vaccination
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#3_November_2021_%28City_employees_and_vaccination%29

content:
<p>
New York City's order for city employees to get vaccinated <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-new-york/last-minute-shots-shrink-ranks-of-unvaccinated-new-york-cops-firefighters-idUSKBN2HM1XV">convinced a large
fraction to do so</a>.

<p>
However, some occupations have a substantial fraction of workers
who have yielded to right-wng brainwashing; they would rather die
than protect themselves and the public.

<p>
I regret that firefighters have fallen into this irrationality,
because a right-wing fireman is probably a good fireman nonetheless.
However, a right-wing cop is likely to be a racist <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#thug">thug</a>,
therefore a threat to public safety.  It's good to get some
of them off the force.


feed_id: 060c2b3724c3ab24f6ae488605d68849
title: Professors to testify as paid experts
uri: Professors-to-testify-as-paid-experts
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_%28Florida_testify_paid_experts%29
content:
<p>
*University of Florida reverses decision, will allow professors to  
<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/11/05/us/florida-professors-can-testify/index.html">testify as
paid experts in voting rights case.</a>*


feed_id: 86cc61011dd06e333aec21db798f9fdf
title: Big Tech companies take wheel
uri: Big-Tech-companies-take-wheel
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_%28Big_tech_takes_wheel%29
content:
<p>
If Big Tech companies such as Apple control cars, they will design them
to collect data on 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/05/big-tech-wants-take-wheel">where each person goes and how each driver drives.</a>
<p>
But it's not just them.  

<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2020/jan/01/tesla-autopilot-california-crash-two-deaths">We know that Tesla cars have told Tesla where
people go in them</a>

<p>
and there is no reason to think any other company
is less of a snoop.


feed_id: 00a42cb650a3bf6aca0d9cf11b2aa5cd
title: Limit global warming to 1.5&#176;C
uri: Limit-global-warming-to-1-5-C
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_%28Global_warming_limit_ffuel%29
content:
<p>
*To limit global warming to 1.5&#176;C, the *  
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/05/biden-unleash-irrevocable-climate-chaos-if-us-fracked-gas-export-projects-proceed">U.S. must ultimately stop
   building new export terminals and pipelines that prop up this dangerous
   fossil fuel worldwide.</a>
* But Biden plans to continue them.


feed_id: 31850d4a97e756291fdfe1c372e22a19
title: Fossil free finance act
uri: Fossil-free-finance-act
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_%28Fossil_free_finance_act%29
content:
<p>
*The Fossil Free Finance Act would 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/05/markey-merkley-bill-would-stop-big-banks-throwing-money-dirty-fossil-fuel-projects">stop major banks and other important
financial institutions from funding fossil fuel projects.</a>*


feed_id: 02dd2f8b93e6e40c2bd2666200630ee4
title: It&#39s the Democratic Party&#39s job
uri: It-39s-the-Democratic-Party-39s-job
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_%28Unpopular_lobby_poison_planet%29
content:
<p>
*It&#39s the Democratic Party&#39s job, and Biden's job in particular, to beat
   a highly 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/05/govern-and-win-elections-democrats-must-defeat-corporate-lobby-not-surrender-it">unpopular lobby that has poisoned the planet, not to surrender
   to it.</a>*


feed_id: 871d04ea3f85401579f8779fba0337fa
title: Big Pharma and Big Insurance spent spent $171 million
uri: Big-Pharma-and-Big-Insurance-spent-spent-171-million
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_%28Big_pharma_lobbying_against%29
content:
<p>
Big Pharma and Big Insurance spent spent $171 million, January through
September, 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/05/big-pharma-spent-horrifying-sums-money-weaken-drug-price-reform">on lobbying against giving more Americans adequate medical
care.</a>


feed_id: 17668df93f817238f8603f36e1a39df3
title: (satire) Catapult Industry Won&#39t Survive Another Year
uri: (satire)-Catapult-Industry-Won-39t-Survive-Another-Year
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_%28%28satire%29_catapult_industry_wont_survive%29

content:
<p>
*<a href="https://www.theonion.com/report-catapult-industry-won-t-survive-another-year-wi-1847999275">Catapult Industry Won&#39t Survive Another Year Without
Medieval War Breaking Out.</a>*


feed_id: 1dd3b5a91c5d4a5f53739f23918d9a6f
title: Shareholder resolutions call for Pfizer and Moderna
uri: Shareholder-resolutions-call-for-Pfizer-and-Moderna
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_%28Shareholder_pfizer_moderna_teach%29

content:
<p>
Shareholder resolutions call for 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/05/unprecedented-shareholder-resolutions-call-pfizer-moderna-share-vaccine-tech">Pfizer and Moderna to teach other
factories how to make RNA vaccines.</a>


feed_id: 5e834f5fb934edd14edf724c495a413e
title: COP26 is an inadequate agreement
uri: COP26-is-an-inadequate-agreement
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_%28Extinction_rebellion_cop26%29
content:
<p>
Extinction Rebellion: *
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/04/if-fighting-climate-crisis-goal-critics-say-cop26-coal-reduction-deal-falls">Agreed at COP26 is an inadequate agreement that
allows coal to continue for nearly 20 more years.  But that's
excluding major nations who refuse to sign at all.</a>*


feed_id: 1cb2e4d3aa2dd55bfff6c3c1edee4cfc
title: Madagascar is experiencing famine
uri: Madagascar-is-experiencing-famine
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_%28Madagascar_famine_global_heating%29

content:
<p>
*Madagascar is 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/06/madagascar-paying-price-for-cheap-european-flights-says-climate-minister">experiencing famine due to global heating.</a>*


feed_id: f2705a2e7ee071abb4b5e31017ed90e0
title: US demand that North Korea discard its nuclear weapons
uri: US-demand-that-North-Korea-discard-its-nuclear-weapons
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_%28Nk_nuclear_discard_futile%29
content:
<p>
The US demand that North Korea discard its nuclear weapons is a futile
approach. 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/06/americas-diplomatic-approach-with-north-korea-is-flawed-its-time-to-change-tack">The US should aim for a lesser goal that is achievable.</a>*


feed_id: 43da22b20dfd1f17fc8c7a98fdfa53ef
title: Transparency over emissions
uri: Transparency-over-emissions
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_%28Cop26_emissions_transparency%29
content:
<p>
Transparency over emissions 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/06/transparency-over-emissions-remains-a-sticking-point-at-cop26">remains a sticking point at Cop26.</a>
*


feed_id: 0281f1237b47a8a6be0846fc5e0158c2
title: Airlines keep losing and damaging wheelchairs
uri: Airlines-keep-losing-and-damaging-wheelchairs
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_%28Airlines_losing_wheelchars_alarm%29

content:
<p> 
*Airlines keep 
<a href="https://abcnews.go.com/amp/Politics/airlines-losing-damaging-wheelchairs-alarming-rate/story?id=78932492">losing and damaging wheelchairs at an alarming rate.</a>*


feed_id: f9ea8e80133445aabb5b7fe3b2455105
title: Make your clothing purchases sustainable
uri: Make-your-clothing-purchases-sustainable
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_%28Buy_less_clothing_sustainable%29
content:
<p> 
The effective way to make your 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/06/clothes-made-from-recycled-materials-sustainable-plastic-climate">clothing purchases sustainable
is to buy a lot less.</a>*


feed_id: 7ff0063419876f75b032419c7567d663
title: Crypto Mining Threatens Paris Climate Agreement
uri: Crypto-Mining-Threatens-Paris-Climate-Agreement
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_%28Crypto_threatens_paris_climate%29

content:
<p>
*Bitcoin, Ethereum 
<a href="https://cryptonews.net/en/news/mining/2534327/">Mining Threatens Paris Climate Agreement:</a>
<p>
Swedish
Financial Regulator.*
I think this position is valid.  To save the world, we need to
decrease the use of fossil fuel; merely increasing use of renewable
energy won't do the job.
<p>
As a means of anonymous purchasing, these cryptocurrencies have
several drawbacks.  They are not a real solution.  
<a href="http://taler.net/">GNU Taler</a>
can be a real solution.


feed_id: e98685a514aa023370282041d6748d19
title: High levels of UV radiation
uri: High-levels-of-UV-radiation
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_%28La_paz_uv_radiation%29
content:
<p>
La Paz is suffering from high levels of UV radiation.
<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/11/03/americas/bolivia-heatwave-highlands-intl/index.html">levels of UV radiation.</a>
<p>
It may be caused by global heating; if so, it is likely happen more
often in coming decades.


feed_id: fde518d266d7fe1d631dcccba4cc4a23
title: US officials have still not found the parents of 270 children
uri: US-officials-have-still-not-found-the-parents-of-270-children
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_%28Border_thugs_separations_trump%29

content:
<p>
US officials have still not found the parents of 
<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/11/03/politics/border-separations-trump-administration/index.html">270 children that the
bully's officials separated from their parents.</a>
<p>
The effort to reunite these families continues, hampered by the
failure to keep records.  The bully's border thugs were largely
motivated by cruelty and hatred, and I suspect that they deliberately
acted to prevent ever reuniting these families.
<p>
I think these children were too young, at that time, to know things
such as their parents full names and where they lived.


feed_id: d8d31f561094196a5c1c50310562dab7
title: World&#39s most obstructive organisations
uri: World-39s-most-obstructive-organisations
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_%28Exxon_chevron_climate_policy%29
content:
<p>
*ExxonMobil and Chevron are the world&#39s most obstructive
   organisations when it comes to governments setting climate policies,
   according to research into the 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/business/2021/nov/04/us-oil-giants-top-list-lobby-offenders-exxonmobile-chevron-toyota">&#x201F;prolific and highly sophisticated&#x201D;</a>*
 lobbying ploys used by the fossil fuel industry.*
<p>
Toyota is also high up on the list.


feed_id: 912d4aeaef89a62098a294aa3c11b94d
title: 10 Facebook pages are responsible for 69% of climate denial
uri: 10-Facebook-pages-are-responsible-for-69-of-climate-denial
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_%28climate_facebook_denial_posts%29
content:
<p>
*New report 
<a href="https://boingboing.net/2021/11/03/new-report-shows-that-10-facebook-pages-are-responsible-for-69-of-climate-denial-posts.html">shows that 10 Facebook pages are responsible for 69% of climate
denial posts.</a>*


feed_id: 2cf4b871f038fd58cfbeecbb02694f16
title: Rep. Marjorie Greene owes $48,000 in fines
uri: Rep-Marjorie-Greene-owes-48-000-in-fines
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_%28greene_fines_rolling_in%29
content:
<p>
Right-wing extremist Rep. Marjorie Greene owes 
<a href="https://boingboing.net/2021/11/02/marjorie-taylor-greene-now-owes-48000-for-not-wearing-a-mask-and-the-fines-keep-rolling-in.html">$48,000 in fines for
going to the House of Representatives without a mask.</a>
<p>
This demonstrates that this punishment is insufficient to achieve
its goal.  Wearing a mask is a measure to protect the lives and health
of all the members of the House, and their staff.  Those who refuse
to wear a mask should not be allowed in, no matter who they are.


feed_id: bdcc92581b2c291c99be2b8a10372a14
title: Rally for Assange
uri: Rally-for-Assange
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_%28Rally_for_assange_nov8%29
content:
<p>
*Boston Free Assange Rally Calling on 
<a href="https://masspeaceaction.org/event/rally-for-julian-assange-nov08/">Merrick Garland to Stop Criminalization of Journalism</a>*


feed_id: 4362d1a36ebadfcc3f52590943a9e0bd
title: Threadbare US Social Safety Net
uri: Threadbare-US-Social-Safety-Net
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_%28Threadbare_us_equality_all%29
content:
<p>
*
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/05/threadbare-us-social-safety-net-war-science-medicine-and-equality-all">Threadbare US Social Safety Net: The War on Science, Medicine, and
Equality for All.</a>*


feed_id: bc3ec0fe16302a009302051d29c4bbf4
title: Democrats need to end backroom dealing
uri: Democrats-need-to-end-backroom-dealing
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_%28Democrats_backroom_dealing_sachs%29

content:
<p>
*   Where are Biden's trips to West Virginia and Arizona to rally support
   for his legislation? Where are the fireside chats with the American
   people? Where are Biden's attempts to corral votes among the Republican
   Senators on 
<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/11/05/opinions/to-win-democrats-need-to-end-backroom-dealing-sachs/index.html">highly popular issues including paid family leave, lower
   drug prices and a clean-energy future?</a>*


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#8_November_2021_(Biden_choice_drug_czar)
title: Biden's choice for "drug czar"
uri: Biden-s-choice-for-drug-czar
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#8_November_2021_(Biden_choice_drug_czar)
content:
 
<p>
Criticizing Biden's choice for "drug czar" 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/05/biden-drug-czar-pick-rahul-gupta">Biden's choice for "drug czar"</a>
-- he does not lean towards
harm reduction.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#8_November_2021_(Pakistan_biometric_id_dangerous)
title: database illustrates how such databases are dangerous.
uri: database-illustrates-how-such-databases-are-dangerous
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#8_November_2021_(Pakistan_biometric_id_dangerous)
content:
 
<p>
Pakistan's 
<a href="https://www.codastory.com/authoritarian-tech/pakistan-biometric-identification-nadra/">biometric national ID database illustrates how such databases
are dangerous.</a>
<p>
An overeager algorithm can cancel the citizenship of multiple generations.
The system also serves purposes of repression and bigotry.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#8_November_2021_(US_strong_measures_coup)
title: US must take strong enough measures to prevent a coup
uri: US-must-take-strong-enough-measures-to-prevent-a-coup
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#8_November_2021_(US_strong_measures_coup)
content:
 
<p>
The US must take 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/04/there-republican-alive-who-still-believes-democracy">strong enough measures to prevent a coup by the
wrecker in 2024.</a>
<p>
I love the Churchill quote that fits the wrecker's feigning
supporters: "Each one hopes that if he feeds the crocodile enough, it
will eat him last."

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#8_November_2021_(Countries_pledge_overseas_fuel)
title: Pledged to stop subsidizing
uri: Pledged-to-stop-subsidizing
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#8_November_2021_(Countries_pledge_overseas_fuel)
content:
 
<p>
The US and Canada, but not Japan, South Korea, or China, pledged to 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/04/welcome-progress-20-nations-vow-end-funding-overseas-fossil-fuel-projects">stop
subsidizing foreign fossil fuel projects next year.</a>

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(Exxon_chevron_climate_policy)
title: World&#39s most obstructive organisations
uri: 2021-11-08-World-39s-most-obstructive-organisations
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(Exxon_chevron_climate_policy)
content:
 
<p>
*ExxonMobil and Chevron are the world’s most obstructive
   organisations when it comes to governments setting climate policies,
   according to research into the 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/business/2021/nov/04/us-oil-giants-top-list-lobby-offenders-exxonmobile-chevron-toyota">“prolific and highly sophisticated”</a>*
 lobbying ploys used by the fossil fuel industry.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(climate_facebook_denial_posts)
title: 10 Facebook pages are responsible for 69% of climate denial
uri: 2021-11-08-10-Facebook-pages-are-responsible-for-69-of-climate-denial
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(climate_facebook_denial_posts)
content:
 
<p>
*New report 
<a href="https://boingboing.net/2021/11/03/new-report-shows-that-10-facebook-pages-are-responsible-for-69-of-climate-denial-posts.html">shows that 10 Facebook pages are responsible for 69% of climate
denial posts.</a>*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(greene_fines_rolling_in)
title: Rep. Marjorie Greene owes $48,000 in fines
uri: 2021-11-08-Rep-Marjorie-Greene-owes-48-000-in-fines
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(greene_fines_rolling_in)
content:
 
<p>
Right-wing extremist Rep. Marjorie Greene owes 
<a href="https://boingboing.net/2021/11/02/marjorie-taylor-greene-now-owes-48000-for-not-wearing-a-mask-and-the-fines-keep-rolling-in.html">$48,000 in fines for
going to the House of Representatives without a mask.</a>
<p>
This demonstrates that this punishment is insufficient to achieve
its goal.  Wearing a mask is a measure to protect the lives and health
of all the members of the House, and their staff.  Those who refuse
to wear a mask should not be allowed in, no matter who they are.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(La_paz_uv_radiation)
title: High levels of UV radiation
uri: 2021-11-08-High-levels-of-UV-radiation
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(La_paz_uv_radiation)
content:
 
<p>
La Paz is suffering from high levels of UV radiation.
<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/11/03/americas/bolivia-heatwave-highlands-intl/index.html">levels of UV radiation.</a>
<p>
It may be caused by global heating; if so, it is likely happen more
often in coming decades.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(Border_thugs_separations_trump)
title: US officials have still not found the parents of 270 children
uri: 2021-11-08-US-officials-have-still-not-found-the-parents-of-270-children
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(Border_thugs_separations_trump)
content:
 
<p>
US officials have still not found the parents of 
<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/11/03/politics/border-separations-trump-administration/index.html">270 children that the
bully's officials separated from their parents.</a>
<p>
The effort to reunite these families continues, hampered by the
failure to keep records.  The bully's border thugs were largely
motivated by cruelty and hatred, and I suspect that they deliberately
acted to prevent ever reuniting these families.
<p>
I think these children were too young, at that time, to know things
such as their parents full names and where they lived.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(Airlines_losing_wheelchars_alarm)
title: Airlines keep losing and damaging wheelchairs
uri: 2021-11-08-Airlines-keep-losing-and-damaging-wheelchairs
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(Airlines_losing_wheelchars_alarm)
content:
 
<p> 
*Airlines keep 
<a href="https://abcnews.go.com/amp/Politics/airlines-losing-damaging-wheelchairs-alarming-rate/story?id=78932492">losing and damaging wheelchairs at an alarming rate.</a>*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(Buy_less_clothing_sustainable)
title: Make your clothing purchases sustainable
uri: 2021-11-08-Make-your-clothing-purchases-sustainable
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(Buy_less_clothing_sustainable)
content:
 
<p> 
The effective way to make your 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/06/clothes-made-from-recycled-materials-sustainable-plastic-climate">clothing purchases sustainable
is to buy a lot less.</a>*



 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(Crypto_threatens_paris_climate)
title: Crypto Mining Threatens Paris Climate Agreement
uri: 2021-11-08-Crypto-Mining-Threatens-Paris-Climate-Agreement
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(Crypto_threatens_paris_climate)
content:
 
<p>
*Bitcoin, Ethereum 
<a href="https://cryptonews.net/en/news/mining/2534327/">Mining Threatens Paris Climate Agreement:</a>
<p>
Swedish
Financial Regulator.*
I think this position is valid.  To save the world, we need to
decrease the use of fossil fuel; merely increasing use of renewable
energy won't do the job.
<p>
As a means of anonymous purchasing, these cryptocurrencies have
several drawbacks.  They are not a real solution.  
<a href="http://taler.net/">GNU Taler</a>
can be a real solution.



 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(Shareholder_pfizer_moderna_teach)
title: Shareholder resolutions call for Pfizer and Moderna
uri: 2021-11-08-Shareholder-resolutions-call-for-Pfizer-and-Moderna
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(Shareholder_pfizer_moderna_teach)
content:
 
<p>
Shareholder resolutions call for 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/05/unprecedented-shareholder-resolutions-call-pfizer-moderna-share-vaccine-tech">Pfizer and Moderna to teach other
factories how to make RNA vaccines.</a>

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(Extinction_rebellion_cop26)
title: COP26 is an inadequate agreement
uri: 2021-11-08-COP26-is-an-inadequate-agreement
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(Extinction_rebellion_cop26)
content:
 
<p>
Extinction Rebellion: *
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/04/if-fighting-climate-crisis-goal-critics-say-cop26-coal-reduction-deal-falls">Agreed at COP26 is an inadequate agreement that
allows coal to continue for nearly 20 more years.  But that's
excluding major nations who refuse to sign at all.</a>*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(Madagascar_famine_global_heating)
title: Madagascar is experiencing famine
uri: 2021-11-08-Madagascar-is-experiencing-famine
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(Madagascar_famine_global_heating)
content:
 
<p>
Madagascar is 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/06/madagascar-paying-price-for-cheap-european-flights-says-climate-minister">experiencing famine due to global heating.</a>*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(Nk_nuclear_discard_futile)
title: US demand that North Korea discard its nuclear weapons
uri: 2021-11-08-US-demand-that-North-Korea-discard-its-nuclear-weapons
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(Nk_nuclear_discard_futile)
content:
 
<p>
The US demand that North Korea discard its nuclear weapons is a futile
approach. 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/06/americas-diplomatic-approach-with-north-korea-is-flawed-its-time-to-change-tack">The US should aim for a lesser goal that is achievable.</a>*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(Cop26_emissions_transparency)
title: Transparency over emissions
uri: 2021-11-08-Transparency-over-emissions
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(Cop26_emissions_transparency)
content:
 
<p>
Transparency over emissions 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/06/transparency-over-emissions-remains-a-sticking-point-at-cop26">remains a sticking point at Cop26.</a>
*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(Fossil_free_finance_act)
title: Fossil free finance act
uri: 2021-11-08-Fossil-free-finance-act
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(Fossil_free_finance_act)
content:
 
<p>
The Fossil Free Finance Act would 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/05/markey-merkley-bill-would-stop-big-banks-throwing-money-dirty-fossil-fuel-projects">stop major banks and other important
financial institutions from funding fossil fuel projects.</a>*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(Unpopular_lobby_poison_planet)
title: It&#39s the Democratic Party&#39s job
uri: 2021-11-08-It-39s-the-Democratic-Party-39s-job
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(Unpopular_lobby_poison_planet)
content:
 
<p>
*It&#39s the Democratic Party&#39s job, and Biden's job in particular, to beat
   a highly 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/05/govern-and-win-elections-democrats-must-defeat-corporate-lobby-not-surrender-it">unpopular lobby that has poisoned the planet, not to surrender
   to it.</a>*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(Big_pharma_lobbying_against)
title: Big Pharma and Big Insurance spent spent $171 million
uri: 2021-11-08-Big-Pharma-and-Big-Insurance-spent-spent-171-million
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(Big_pharma_lobbying_against)
content:
 
<p>
Big Pharma and Big Insurance spent spent $171 million, January through
September, 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/05/big-pharma-spent-horrifying-sums-money-weaken-drug-price-reform">on lobbying against giving more Americans adequate medical
care.</a>


 


title: (satire) Catapult Industry Won&#39t Survive Another Year
uri: 2021-11-08-(satire)-Catapult-Industry-Won-39t-Survive-Another-Year
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_((satire)_catapult_industry_wont_survive)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_((satire)_catapult_industry_wont_survive)

content:
 
<p>
*<a href="https://www.theonion.com/report-catapult-industry-won-t-survive-another-year-wi-1847999275">Catapult Industry Won&#39t Survive Another Year Without
Medieval War Breaking Out.</a>*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(Global_warming_limit_ffuel)
title: Limit global warming to 1.5&#176;C
uri: 2021-11-08-Limit-global-warming-to-1-5-C
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(Global_warming_limit_ffuel)
content:
 
<p>
*To limit global warming to 1.5&#176;C, the *  
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/05/biden-unleash-irrevocable-climate-chaos-if-us-fracked-gas-export-projects-proceed">U.S. must ultimately stop
   building new export terminals and pipelines that prop up this dangerous
   fossil fuel worldwide.</a>
* But Biden plans to continue them.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(Democrats_backroom_dealing_sachs)
title: Democrats need to end backroom dealing
uri: 2021-11-08-Democrats-need-to-end-backroom-dealing
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(Democrats_backroom_dealing_sachs)
content:
 
<p>
*   Where are Biden's trips to West Virginia and Arizona to rally support
   for his legislation? Where are the fireside chats with the American
   people? Where are Biden's attempts to corral votes among the Republican
   Senators on 
<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/11/05/opinions/to-win-democrats-need-to-end-backroom-dealing-sachs/index.html">highly popular issues including paid family leave, lower
   drug prices and a clean-energy future?</a>*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(Florida_testify_paid_experts)
title: Professors to testify as paid experts
uri: 2021-11-08-Professors-to-testify-as-paid-experts
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(Florida_testify_paid_experts)
content:
 
<p>
*University of Florida reverses decision, will allow professors to  
<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/11/05/us/florida-professors-can-testify/index.html">testify as
paid experts in voting rights case.</a>*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(Big_tech_takes_wheel)
title: Big Tech companies take wheel
uri: 2021-11-08-Big-Tech-companies-take-wheel
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(Big_tech_takes_wheel)
content:
 
<p>
If Big Tech companies such as Apple control cars, they will design them
to collect data on 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/05/big-tech-wants-take-wheel">where each person goes and how each driver drives.</a>
<p>
But it's not just them.  

<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2020/jan/01/tesla-autopilot-california-crash-two-deaths">We know that Tesla cars have told Tesla where
people go in them</a>

<p>
and there is no reason to think any other company
is less of a snoop.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(Rally_for_assange_nov8)
title: Rally for Assange
uri: 2021-11-08-Rally-for-Assange
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(Rally_for_assange_nov8)
content:
 
<p>
*Boston Free Assange Rally Calling on 
<a href="https://masspeaceaction.org/event/rally-for-julian-assange-nov08/">Merrick Garland to Stop Criminalization of Journalism</a>*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(Threadbare_us_equality_all)
title: Threadbare US Social Safety Net
uri: 2021-11-08-Threadbare-US-Social-Safety-Net
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#7_November_2021_(Threadbare_us_equality_all)
content:
 
<p>
*
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/05/threadbare-us-social-safety-net-war-science-medicine-and-equality-all">Threadbare US Social Safety Net: The War on Science, Medicine, and
Equality for All.</a>*



 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Invisible_toxic_cocktail)
title: Toxic cocktail
uri: 2021-11-08-Toxic-cocktail
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Invisible_toxic_cocktail)
content:
 
<p>
*"Invisible Toxic Cocktail" in 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/03/invisible-toxic-cocktail-tap-water-across-us-due-regulatory-capture-analysis">Tap Water Across US Due to "Regulatory
 Capture".*</a>
<p>
Many poisonous substances found in tap water 
<a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/11/01/epa-toxic-chemicals-reports-withheld/">are not regulated at
all by the EPA.</a> These include the PFAs
<p>
plus many more.


 


title: Urgent: Confirm Jessica Rosenworcel and Gigi Sohn
uri: 2021-11-08-Urgent-Confirm-Jessica-Rosenworcel-and-Gigi-Sohn
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Urgent:_senate_confirm_rosenworcel)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Urgent:_senate_confirm_rosenworcel)

content:
 
<p>
US citizens: call on the Senate to 
<a href="https://act.freepress.net/sign/fcc_confirm_nominees/?akid=19724.9489429.dbm4Wz&rd=1&t=1002">confirm Jessica Rosenworcel and
Gigi Sohn in the FCC.</a>


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Ny_taxi_medallion_owners)
title: Debt payments reduced
uri: 2021-11-08-Debt-payments-reduced
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Ny_taxi_medallion_owners)
content:
 
<p>
New York City has reduced the debt payments for 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/04/new-york-city-taxi-drivers-end-hunger-strike-debt-relief
">taxi medallion owners
who borrowed to buy a medallion.</a>
<p>
One of several contributing causes of the medallion owners' problem is
the arrival of Uber, which was prepared to lose billions of dollars a
year for many years to wipe out the taxi companies.
<p>
Uber would have been an injustice simply for the concentration of the
industry of replacing many small local companies with one large
company, even if there were nothing else wrong with it.  But its
biggest wrong is to its customers: it makes them run a nonfree app
on a nonfree operating system, and they can't pay anonymously since
the company does not accept cash.
<p>
Uber was compelled to stop running at a loss, and raise its prices.
Uber drivers make less than taxi drivers now.  Uber is now weak.
So choose a real taxi, and pay in cash!


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Warning_abuse_private_space)
title: Abuses in privatizing access to space
uri: 2021-11-08-Abuses-in-privatizing-access-to-space
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Warning_abuse_private_space)
content:
 
<p>
Warning of potential abuses in 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2021/11/04/new-analysis-why-are-we-letting-monopolists-corner-space">privatizing access to space.</a>
<p>
Communications satellites are already private -- built and operated by
large companies which pay to launch them.  It is not clear to me that
SpaceX makes the situation very different.  But there may be problems
I do not recognize.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Zillow_speculating_houses)
title: Zillow has given up
uri: 2021-11-08-Zillow-has-given-up
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Zillow_speculating_houses)
content:
 
<p>
Zillow has given up on the business of 
<a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-10158485/Zillow-plans-lay-25-staff-putting-end-home-flipping-business.html">peculating in houses that other
people need as places to live.</a>

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Tax_dodging_wealth_hiding)
title: Tax dodging and hiding wealth
uri: 2021-11-08-Tax-dodging-and-hiding-wealth
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Tax_dodging_wealth_hiding)
content:
 
<p>
Each state and territory in the US has its own laws that determine how
much it 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/04/united-states-tax-havens">facilitates tax dodging and hiding wealth.</a>


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Banks_financing_fossil_fuels)
title: Banks still financing fossil fuels
uri: 2021-11-08-Banks-still-financing-fossil-fuels
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Banks_financing_fossil_fuels)
content:
 
<p>
*Banks are still financing fossil fuels –- 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/04/banks-are-still-financing-fossil-fuels-while-signing-up-to-net-zero-pledges">while signing up to net zero pledges.</a>*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Trudeau_keep_dangerous_pipeline)
title: Trudeau pressuring Michigan
uri: 2021-11-08-Trudeau-pressuring-Michigan
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Trudeau_keep_dangerous_pipeline)
content:
 
<p>
*Why is Trudeau pressuring  
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/04/why-is-trudeau-pressuring-michigan-to-keep-a-dangerous-oil-pipeline-open">Michigan to keep a dangerous oil pipeline open?</a>
*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Life_without_smartphone)
title: My life without a smartphone is getting harder and harder
uri: 2021-11-08-My-life-without-a-smartphone-is-getting-harder-and-harder
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Life_without_smartphone)
content:
 
<p>
Author Jen Wasserstein says, 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/04/my-life-without-a-smartphone-is-getting-harder-and-harder">"My life without a smartphone is getting
harder and harder."</a>

<p>
Good on her to resist, but she should stop doubting the rightness of
her resistance.
<p>
It is interesting to compare her account my own experiences this year
without any portable phone whatsoever, in Europe as well as the US.
There were inconvenient moments, but I always got through them.
<p>
I am fortified in my resistance by knowing powerful moral reasons to
conde,m portable phones.  It's not just that I find their effect on
other people alarming.  I recognize them as a threat to democracy 

<a href="https://gnu.org/philosophy/surveillance-vs-democracy.html">due
to their massive general surveillance</a>

<p>
as well as an injustice to each user (due to their remotely
modifiable nonfree software).  As a result, I never feel abashed about
rejecting them, nor ashamed if the ignorant look askance.  I am proud
of my resistance.
<p>
When a waiter tells me to scan a QR code, I move my finger slowly over
it while staring at it intently, as if a menu should magically appear.
After sufficient time, I may say, "It doesn't seem to be working."
Try it, it's fun!
<p>
Please join me in resisting the pressure to make everyone run nonfree
software. 

<a href="https://gnu.org/philosophy/saying-no-even-once.html">Even if you only say no once, saying no even once is helping.</a>
<p>
And once you've said no the first time, the second time is easier.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(John_lewis_time_runningout)
uri: 2021-11-08-
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(John_lewis_time_runningout)
content:
 
<p>
The Senate tried again to hold a vote on the John Lewis Voting Rights
Advancement Act, mainly to pressure Manchin and Sinema, 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/03/senate-republicans-voting-rights-bill-john-lewis">who insist on
maintaining Republicans' power to block laws.</a>
<p>
*The Senate needs to pass the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act,
   and a suite of other democratic protections, in 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/03/time-running-out-protect-voting-rights">time for them to be
   implemented before the 2022 elections.</a>*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Fec_ruled_foreign_contribute)
title: Campaigns for and against ballot questions
uri: 2021-11-08-Campaigns-for-and-against-ballot-questions
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Fec_ruled_foreign_contribute)
content:
 
<p>The Federal Election Commission ruled that foreign companies (and perhaps foreign individials and governments too) 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/02/complete-attack-our-democracy-fec-rules-foreign-corporations-can-donate-influence-us">can contribute to campaigns for and against
ballot questions.</a>

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Intl_criminal_court_venezuelan)
title: Accusations of torture
uri: 2021-11-08-Accusations-of-torture
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Intl_criminal_court_venezuelan)
content:
 
<p>
The International Criminal Court will
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/04/venezuela-faces-landmark-icc-investigation-over-alleged-crimes-against-humanity">investigate accusations of torture
by Venezuelan state suppression forces</a> -- with Maduro's agreement.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Nicaraguan_exiles_election)
title: Exiled Nicaraguan opponents
uri: 2021-11-08-Exiled-Nicaraguan-opponents
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Nicaraguan_exiles_election)
content:
 
<p>
Interviews with exiled Nicaraguan opponents of the Ortega couple's
dictatorship, 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/04/nicaraguan-exiles-election-daniel-ortega-dictatorship-rosario-murillo">including their daughter.</a>

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Mangrove_swamps_carbon_sea)
title: Restoring mangrove swamps
uri: 2021-11-08-Restoring-mangrove-swamps
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Mangrove_swamps_carbon_sea)
content:
 
<p>
Restoring mangrove swamps could be an effective way of 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/04/can-blue-carbon-make-offsetting-work-these-pioneers-think-so">sequestering
large amounts of carbon in the sea.</a>*
<p>
I see two possible problems with it.
<ul>
<li>
The amount that can be done is limited by the length of suitabkle
shoreline that can be used.
</li>
<li>
Whatever mangroves people restore,
sea-level rise could destroy in a few decades.
Will that release the carbon they will have sequestered?
</li>
</ul>


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Nih_evade_restrictions_covid)
title: NIH Officals worked with EcoHealth
uri: 2021-11-08-NIH-Officals-worked-with-EcoHealth
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Nih_evade_restrictions_covid)
content:
 
<p>
*NIH Officials Worked With EcoHealth Alliance to 
<a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/11/03/coronavirus-research-ecohealth-nih-emails/">Evade Restrictions on
 Coronavirus Experiments.</a>*
<p>
These experiments took place in the Wuhan lab in China, with US
funding specifically to do these experiments, and the experimenters
pushed the safety limits.
<p>
These experiments did not cause a pandemic, but there was a risk they
could have done so.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Schiff_us_defend_taiwan)
title: US to state clearly its commitment to defending Taiwan
uri: 2021-11-08-US-to-state-clearly-its-commitment-to-defending-Taiwan
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Schiff_us_defend_taiwan)
content:
 
<p>
Senator Schiff 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/04/we-need-to-be-much-clearer-leading-democrat-schiff-questions-us-strategy-on-defending-taiwan">calls for the US to state clearly its commitment to
defending Taiwan if China attacks,</a>*
<p>
The logic of this is obvious: to make sure doesn't someday attack Taiwan
on the supposition that the US will not help Taiwan resist.
<p>
I am unable to judge how "strategic ambiguity" might help avoid an
attack, but I won't claim that is impossible.  I am no expert on
displomacy.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Urgent:_Kaiser_Permanente)
title: Urgent: Kaiser Permanente
uri: 2021-11-08-Urgent-Kaiser-Permanente
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Urgent:_Kaiser_Permanente)
content:
 
<p>

US citizens: tell Kaiser Permanente to <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/forms/kaiser-permanente">give its workers a raise</a>,
not a pay cut. That company is making big profits and can afford a raise.

 


title: Urgent: Remove Manchin as Chairman
uri: 2021-11-08-Urgent-Remove-Manchin-as-Chairman
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Urgent:_Remove_Manchin_as_Chairman)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Urgent:_Remove_Manchin_as_Chairman)

content:
 
<p>

US citizens: call on the Senate to <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/forms/replace-senator-joe-manchin-as-chairman-of-the-senate-committee-on-energy-and-natural-resources-now">remove Senator Joe Manchin as
Chairman of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Urgent:_Social_Security_2100_Act)
title: Urgent: Social Security 2100 Act
uri: 2021-11-08-Urgent-Social-Security-2100-Act
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Urgent:_Social_Security_2100_Act)
content:
 
<p>

US citizens: state your <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/forms/become-a-grassroots-co-sponsor-of-the-social-security-2100-act">support for the Social Security 2100 Act</a>
(the link gives details).

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_((satire)_Isolated_district)
title: (satire) Isolated district
uri: 2021-11-08-(satire)-Isolated-district
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_((satire)_Isolated_district)
content:
 
<p>

(satire) *Despondent Congressman <a href="https://www.theonion.com/despondent-congressman-gerrymanders-self-into-own-isola-1847987020">Gerrymanders Self Into Own Isolated District</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_((satire)_Check_to_Joe_Manchin)
title: (satire) Check to Joe Manchin
uri: 2021-11-08-(satire)-Check-to-Joe-Manchin
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_((satire)_Check_to_Joe_Manchin)
content:
 
<p>

(satire) *Biden Social Spending Bill Whittled Down To <a href="https://www.theonion.com/biden-social-spending-bill-whittled-down-to-10-billion-1847989883">$10 Billion
Check To Joe Manchin</a>.*

 


title: Insurers underwriting oil and gas
uri: 2021-11-08-Insurers-underwriting-oil-and-gas
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Insurers_underwriting_oil_and_gas)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Insurers_underwriting_oil_and_gas)

content:
 
<p>

*Major U.S. insurers <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/03/climate-scorecard-shows-insurance-industry-pouring-gasoline-fire">continue to underwrite</a> "the reckless expansion of oil and gas
infrastructure."*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(UK_deporting_people_to_Jamaica)
title: UK deporting people to Jamaica
uri: 2021-11-08-UK-deporting-people-to-Jamaica
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(UK_deporting_people_to_Jamaica)
content:
 
<p>

The UK is <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2021/nov/05/jamaican-diplomat-criticises-home-office-over-deportation-flight">deporting people to Jamaica</a> who grew up in the UK
and have no contacts in Jamaica.
<p>
It's wrong <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2020-jul-oct.html#23_July_2020_(Cruelty_of_absurd_deportation)">when the US does this</a>,
and wrong for other countries too.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Advertisement_bans)
title: Advertisement bans
uri: 2021-11-08-Advertisement-bans
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Advertisement_bans)
content:
 
<p>

Italy seems to have adopted a law that <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/05/italian-senate-approves-law-banning-sexist-and-discriminatory-adverts">bans advertisements on the street</a>
that "perpetuate gender stereotypes".
That is extremely broad censorship, since an ad need not disparage
or insult anyone to be banned.  It is enough for it to show men and/or
women behaving in a customary way.  Showing a party where women wear
dresses and men wear suits would be forbidden.  Any scene in which
people are acting in accord with usual Italian sex roles is forbidden.
Advertising a romcom, or a James Bond movie, is almost impossible.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Light_sentence)
title: Light sentence
uri: 2021-11-08-Light-sentence
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Light_sentence)
content:
 
<p>

Macron’s ex-bodyguard got a <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/05/macron-ex-bodyguard-sentenced-for-assaulting-protesters">light sentence</a> (no prison time) for
attacking protesters.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Gift_holiday)
title: Gift holiday
uri: 2021-11-08-Gift-holiday
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Gift_holiday)
content:
 
<p>

Bogus Johnson will avoid the issue of the gift holiday he got from a
rich Tory by <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2021/nov/05/boris-johnson-will-not-declare-spanish-holiday-in-mps-register-says-no-10">not officially declaring it</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Ethiopia-Tigray_war)
title: Ethiopia-Tigray war
uri: 2021-11-08-Ethiopia-Tigray-war
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Ethiopia-Tigray_war)
content:
 
<p>

A summary of <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/05/ethiopia-tigray-war-who-is-fighting-and-what-has-been-the-toll">what is known</a> about the Ethiopia-Tigray war.
<p>
Some questions that occur to me:

<ul>
  
<li>
Who is forbidding journalists from the front?  Is it Ethiopia?
If so, how come Tigray doesn't help them get in?  Does Tigray also
want to exclude them?  Is Ethiopia blockading Tigray?
</li>

<li>
Likewise, what stops humanitarian relief from reaching Tigray?
</li>

<li>
If Ethiopia is blockading Tigray, how is it maintaining
the blockade against Tigray's forces, which are defeating Ethiopia's
forces in Amhara?
</li>

<li>
How come Tigray has no radio communications with the outside world?
</li>

<li>
Why is Ethiopia so weak, militarily?
</li>

</ul>

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Torturing_prisoners)
title: Torturing prisoners
uri: 2021-11-08-Torturing-prisoners
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Torturing_prisoners)
content:
 
<p>

Thugs in the Oklahoma City jail tortured prisoners by <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/05/oklahoma-county-jail-baby-shark-torture-tactics-lawsuit">making them stand
for hours</a>, as well as other methods.
<p>
Playing the baby shark song probably won't cause the same physical
pain and damage that standing for hours can cause.  But if they play
it too loud, it could damage the victim's hearing.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Charging_for_parking)
title: Charging for parking
uri: 2021-11-08-Charging-for-parking
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Charging_for_parking)
content:
 
<p>

Arguing that <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/05/us-free-parking-spaces-climate-cost">charging for parking benefits a city</a> in many ways,
because the space near the curb gets made available for better uses
and people use cars less.
<p>
To make this truly beneficial, the city has to have copious mass
transit.  Buses must be frequent enough that the precise schedule is
of no importance.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(American_women_that_can
title: American women that can't work
uri: 2021-11-08-American-women-that-can-t-work
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(American_women_that_can
content:
 
<p>

Many American women can't work because they <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/05/childcare-us-women-workforce">can't find, or can't
afford, childcare</a>.
<p>
One could argue that if a parent's can't find work that pays for the
cost of childcare, it's more efficient for the parent to stay home and
take care of per own children.  Yes, indeed &mdash; provided we have a
welfare system that gives per an income to support the family.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Nuclear_weapons_limitation)
title: Nuclear weapons limitation
uri: 2021-11-08-Nuclear-weapons-limitation
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Nuclear_weapons_limitation)
content:
 
<p>

Democrats urged Biden to push for a <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/04/dems-urge-biden-reduce-nuclear-weapons-risks-summit-chinese-president">nuclear weapons limitation</a> with
China.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Servers_for_the_US_military)
title: Servers for the US military
uri: 2021-11-08-Servers-for-the-US-military
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Servers_for_the_US_military)
content:
 
<p>

Google seeks to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2021/11/03/technology/google-pentagon-artificial-intelligence.html">run servers for the US military</a>.
<p>
Governments must never entrust the operation of their servers to an
outside entity, because <a href="https://gnu.org/government/">the state must have control of its computing</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Ultrawealthy_politicians)
title: Ultrawealthy politicians
uri: 2021-11-08-Ultrawealthy-politicians
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Ultrawealthy_politicians)
content:
 
<p>

*How These Ultrawealthy [US] Politicians <a href="https://www.propublica.org/article/how-these-ultrawealthy-politicians-avoided-paying-taxes">Avoided Paying Taxes</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Seagrass_meadows)
title: Seagrass meadows
uri: 2021-11-08-Seagrass-meadows
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Seagrass_meadows)
content:
 
<p>

Replanting destroyed seagrass meadows by hand is a crucial method of
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/05/seagrass-meadows-could-turn-tide-of-climate-crisis-aoe">restoring the ocean's ability to sequester CO2</a>.
<p>
It can also provide employment.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Prison_Arts_Collective)
title: Prison Arts Collective
uri: 2021-11-08-Prison-Arts-Collective
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Prison_Arts_Collective)
content:
 
<p>

The Prison Arts Collective <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2021/nov/05/prison-arts-collective-california">teaches art in prisons in the US</a>.
Beyond enriching their lives, it can also help them learn to live
outside prison.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Paterson_debacle)
title: Paterson debacle
uri: 2021-11-08-Paterson-debacle
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Paterson_debacle)
content:
 
<p>

*The Paterson [corruption] debacle shows that Johnson no longer has
advisers &mdash; <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/05/paterson-debacle-johnson-no-longer-advisers-courtiers">he has courtiers</a>.*  Bogus Johnson repeatedly shrugs off
criticism of his own corrupt acts, and the Tory MPs just barely learned
to resist this to eliminate all checks on their corruption.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Zhang_Zhan)
title: Zhang Zhan
uri: 2021-11-08-Zhang-Zhan
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Zhang_Zhan)
content:
 
<p>

China jailed Zhang Zhan for publishing reports on the initial Covid-19
outbreak in China.  She has been on a hunger strike, and reportedly is
<a href="https://rsf.org/en/news/china-rsf-urges-release-covid-19-reporter-who-faces-impending-death">weak and close to dying</a>.
<p>
Reporters Without Borders reminds us that other writers and publishers
are in prison in China for publishing.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(McAuliffe_campaign)
title: McAuliffe campaign
uri: 2021-11-08-McAuliffe-campaign
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(McAuliffe_campaign)
content:
 
<p>

*Left Coalition Says McAuliffe Campaign Was a '<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/03/left-coalition-says-mcauliffe-campaign-was-controlled-experiment-what-not-do-2022">Controlled Experiment</a>
for What Not to Do in 2022'.  Either excite voters with a bold agenda
or risk losing power to the GOP.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Economic_growth)
title: Economic growth
uri: 2021-11-08-Economic-growth
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#6_November_2021_(Economic_growth)
content:
 
<p>

Questioning the goal, the possibility, and the <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/03/limits-economic-growth-and-climate-crisis">idea of economic growth</a>.
<p>
Economic growth, if it includes the non-rich, offers the opportunity
of a truce in the class war: if we divide the gains fairly, we can all
work together.  But fair division is not assured; indeed, it is
unlikely today.  What that suggests is that we had better focus
on how the world's income is divided.
<p>
While continued economic growth may be impossible, that doesn't
mean further growth is impossible for the next few decades.
It is true that using more resources has the potential to
backfire &mdash; but that result is not inevitably big enough to be
a real problem.

<p>
<a href="../articles/children.html ">Reducing the birth rate</a> so as to start reducing the human population
is a safe and ethical way to enable each of us to have more of some
things that make life more comfortable and enjoyable.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(AI_needs_regulating)
title: AI needs regulating
uri: 2021-11-08-AI-needs-regulating
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(AI_needs_regulating)
content:
 
<p>
The use of AI <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/01/the-guardian-view-on-spooky-science-ai-needs-regulating-before-its-too-late">should be regulated, when it affects the public</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Cop26_deforestation_fund)
title: Cop26 deforestation fund
uri: 2021-11-08-Cop26-deforestation-fund
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Cop26_deforestation_fund)
content:
 
<p>
Cop26 has launched a fund that aims to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/01/cop26-indigenous-peoples-to-get-17bn-in-recognition-of-role-in-protecting-forests-aoe">give
1.7 billion dollars to indigenous peoples, and other local
communities, for the sake of ending deforestation</a>.
<p>
The money will be used to "support [their] capacity to govern
themselves collectively, assist with mapping and registration work,
back national land reform and help resolve conflict over territories."
<p>
This can be a good idea, but it needs to be done carefully.
Indigenous peoples are made up of human beings who have the same moral
and intellectual flexibility as other human beings.  After the US
divided up the land of various Indian reservations as private property
of various Indians, many of them agreed to sell that property to
whites.  (That was, I think, the US's aim in dividing the land.)
<p>
We should give local communities the authority to protect forests and
ecosystems, but not the authority to sell them or despoil them.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Fracking_subsidy)
title: Fracking subsidy
uri: 2021-11-08-Fracking-subsidy
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Fracking_subsidy)
content:
 
<p>
Australia's resources minister gave a <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2021/nov/02/australias-resources-minister-ignored-climate-risks-in-21m-grant-to-frack-nts-beetaloo-basin-court-hears">subsidy to a fracking project
without even considering climate effects</a>.
<p>
Australia should have a climate defense minister rather than a
"resources" minister.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Terry_Gilliam_cancelled)
title: Terry Gilliam cancelled
uri: 2021-11-08-Terry-Gilliam-cancelled
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Terry_Gilliam_cancelled)
content:
 
<p>
A stage production directed by Terry Gilliam has been <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/stage/2021/nov/02/musical-to-move-after-unrest-at-old-vic-over-terry-gilliam-remarks">cancelled
because staff at the theater objected to some of his political views</a>.
<p>
Cancellationists seek universal support for their political stances,
not by convincing everyone that they are right, but by bullying everyone
who states any doubts.

 


title: President of Palau adminishes big emitters
uri: 2021-11-08-President-of-Palau-adminishes-big-emitters
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(President_of_Palau_adminishes_big_emitters)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(President_of_Palau_adminishes_big_emitters)

content:
 
<p>
The President of Palau:
*Frankly speaking, there is no dignity to a slow and
painful death -— <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/02/you-might-well-bomb-our-islands-palau-president-admonishes-big-emitters-cop26">you might as well bomb our islands instead of making us
suffer only to witness our slow and fateful demise</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Transition_to_clean_energy)
title: Transition to clean energy
uri: 2021-11-08-Transition-to-clean-energy
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Transition_to_clean_energy)
content:
 
<p>
Arguing that the transition to clean energy will inevitably involve <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/02/how-much-worsening-energy-crisis-due-depletion">a stage
of using much less energy than now</a>.
  Depletion of the easy-extract fossil fuels will make energy more
expensive, years before we have enough green energy capacity to fill
ths shortfall.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Methane_regulations)
title: Methane regulations
uri: 2021-11-08-Methane-regulations
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Methane_regulations)
content:
 
<p>
Biden has announced <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/11/02/politics/epa-methane-regulations/index.html">new EPA regulations to reduce methane emissions</a>.
<p>
*Biden's New Methane Rules <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/02/bidens-new-methane-rules-do-not-go-far-enough-slash-planet-warming-gas-critics">"Do Not Go Far Enough" to Slash Planet-Warming Gas</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(US_racial_integration)
title: US racial integration
uri: 2021-11-08-US-racial-integration
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(US_racial_integration)
content:
 
<p>
Some economists say that if the US were racially integrated, that would
<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/11/02/business/racial-integration-economic-growth/index.html">increase US economic growth a significant amount</a>.
<p>
I think the reason to try to end racism is more fundamental -- it's an
injustice.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Iran_resumes_nuclear_deal_talks)
title: Iran resumes nuclear deal talks
uri: 2021-11-08-Iran-resumes-nuclear-deal-talks
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Iran_resumes_nuclear_deal_talks)
content:
 
<p>
Iran has <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/03/iran-sets-date-to-resume-talks-on-nuclear-deal-after-five-month-gap">agreed to resume talks on reinstating the non-nuclear deal</a>
that the wrecker cancelled.
<p>
*Biden Urged to <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/02/no-time-waste-biden-urged-repair-us-iran-relations-humanitarian-aid">Repair US-Iran Relations With Humanitarian Aid</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Bogus_Johnson
title: Bogus Johnson's private jet
uri: 2021-11-08-Bogus-Johnson-s-private-jet
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Bogus_Johnson
content:
 
<p>
Bogus Johnson went by <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2021/nov/03/johnson-takes-private-jet-from-cop26-to-london-to-attend-dinner">private jet from the climate conference in
Glasgow to London for a reunion dinner</a>.
<p>
This makes his words about the need to reduce greenhouse emissions
look like total hypocrisy.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Westminster_sleaze_system)
title: Westminster sleaze system
uri: 2021-11-08-Westminster-sleaze-system
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Westminster_sleaze_system)
content:
 
<p>
Bogus Johnson has joined the effort to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2021/nov/03/johnson-accused-of-corruption-as-he-tears-up-westminster-sleaze-fighting-system">protect MP charged with corruption
from being investigated through Parliament's system for such investigations</a>.
This is tantamout to a campaign to open Parliament to corruption
without limits, at least for his friends.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(NSO_blacklisted)
title: NSO blacklisted
uri: 2021-11-08-NSO-blacklisted
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(NSO_blacklisted)
content:
 
<p>
The US has put NSO, the company that makes the Pegasus cracking software,
on a blacklist that <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/03/blacklist-placement-us-views-nso-group-grave-threat">forbids its use of US technology products</a>.
<p>
I wonder if the US will be able to enforce that prohibition.  What NSO sells
is software.

 


title: US Supreme Court may block CO2 regulations
uri: 2021-11-08-US-Supreme-Court-may-block-CO2-regulations
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(US_Supreme_Court_may_block_CO2_regulations)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(US_Supreme_Court_may_block_CO2_regulations)

content:
 
<p>
The US Supreme Court may <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/03/how-the-us-supreme-court-could-be-a-threat-to-climate-action-in-the-us">block all efforts to regulate CO2 emissions;
for instance, the emissions of fossil-fuel-fired generators</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Ireland_cattle)
title: Ireland cattle
uri: 2021-11-08-Ireland-cattle
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Ireland_cattle)
content:
 
<p>
*Ireland would need to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/03/ireland-would-need-to-cull-up-to-13-million-cattle-to-reach-climate-targets">cull up to 1.3 million cattle to reach climate
targets</a>.*
<p>
If civilization's survival depends on it, Ireland must do it.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(World
title: World's greenhouse pledges
uri: 2021-11-08-World-s-greenhouse-pledges
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(World
content:
 
<p>
The world's greenhouse pledges, supposing they are carried out, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/03/cop26-emission-pledges-could-limit-global-heating-to-below-2c-india">might now
limit global heating to 2C</a>.
<p>
That's big progress, but not enough to avoid disaster, because (1) 2C
of heating will probably be disaster, and (2) positive feedbacks we
don't know about could come into play.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Biometric_database)
title: Biometric database
uri: 2021-11-08-Biometric-database
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Biometric_database)
content:
 
<p>
*The dystopian danger of a <a href="https://restofworld.org/2021/the-dystopian-danger-of-a-mandatory-biometric-database-in-mexico/">mandatory biometric database in Mexico</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Fossil_fuel_subsidies)
title: Fossil fuel subsidies
uri: 2021-11-08-Fossil-fuel-subsidies
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Fossil_fuel_subsidies)
content:
 
<p>
In the past 10 years, Australia has <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2021/nov/04/australian-fossil-fuel-projects-given-367bn-in-foreign-public-financing-over-a-decade">given fossil fuels 37 billion in subsidy;
renwable energy, only 3 billion.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Trees_alone_are_not_the_answer)
title: Trees alone are not the answer
uri: 2021-11-08-Trees-alone-are-not-the-answer
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Trees_alone_are_not_the_answer)
content:
 
<p>
Trying to curb global heating by <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/03/planting-millions-of-trees-may-not-be-the-answer-to-deforestation">planting trees will not help much
unless it is done right</a> -- and that's not easy.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Annoying_tactics)
title: Annoying tactics
uri: 2021-11-08-Annoying-tactics
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Annoying_tactics)
content:
 
<p>
Comparing Insulate Britain to the suffragettes shows that <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/03/insulate-britain-protests-protesters-direct-action-climate-emergency">their
annoying tactics are justified</a>.
<p>
I don't doubt that the cause of saving civilization justifies blocking
highways as a protest.  I just hope it doesn't backfire.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Cop26
title: Cop26's worst outcome
uri: 2021-11-08-Cop26-s-worst-outcome
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Cop26
content:
 
<p>
*Cop26's worst outcome would be <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/03/cop26-carbon-offsetting-greenwashing-paris-agreement">giving the green light to carbon offsetting.</a>*
<p>
*Cop26 has to be about <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/03/cop26-fossil-fuels">keeping fossil fuels in the ground</a>. All else is
distraction.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Ethiopia_war_crimes)
title: Ethiopia war crimes
uri: 2021-11-08-Ethiopia-war-crimes
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Ethiopia_war_crimes)
content:
 
<p>
*<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/03/possible-war-crimes-on-all-sides-in-ethiopian-conflict-report-tigray">Possible war crimes</a> on all sides in Ethiopian conflict,*
  according
to a joint investigation by the UN and Ethiopia.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Poison_packaging)
title: Poison packaging
uri: 2021-11-08-Poison-packaging
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Poison_packaging)
content:
 
<p>
The EPA must <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/03/your-fast-food-is-wrapped-in-grease-proof-ortho-phthalates-why-is-that-allowed">make sure the packaging of our food is not slowly poisoning us</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Urgent:_JPMorgan_Chase_and_UBS)
title: Urgent: JPMorgan Chase and UBS
uri: 2021-11-08-Urgent-JPMorgan-Chase-and-UBS
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Urgent:_JPMorgan_Chase_and_UBS)
content:
 
<p>
US citizens: call on JPMorgan Chase and UBS to <a href="https://act.stand.earth/page/34989/petition/1">divest from Amazon oil
and gas, to avoid the destruction of the Amazon rainforest</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Siberian_lakes_drying)
title: Siberian lakes drying
uri: 2021-11-08-Siberian-lakes-drying
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Siberian_lakes_drying)
content:
 
<p>
In Siberia's north, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/03/summers-are-becoming-unbearable-living-on-the-frontline-of-global-heating">global heating in the summer is drying up lakes,
cratering the ground, and killing young deer</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Collusion_against_workers)
title: Collusion against workers
uri: 2021-11-08-Collusion-against-workers
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Collusion_against_workers)
content:
 
<p>
*Australia’s Largest Retail Union <a href="https://jacobinmag.com/2021/11/australia-retail-workers-right-wing-union-sda-rest-employer-exploitation">Colludes With Bosses to Exploit Workers</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Pizzeria_robots)
title: Pizzeria robots
uri: 2021-11-08-Pizzeria-robots
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Pizzeria_robots)
content:
 
<p>
Some pizzerias are <a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-technology-science-business-europe-5b7dbb782f89ef3d586eefb9a33d5e1c">using robots to deliver pizzas, rolling on
sidewalks -- and, horribly, they require the customer to have a
smartphone</a>.
<p>
I urge people to reject the <a href="//stallman.org/food-delivery.html">food-delivery gig economy companies</a>
because they require customers to identify themselves and pay digitally
(as well as other reasons).
  By contrast, a human delivery agent working for the pizzeria can
accept payment in cash.
<p>
The robot is even worse.  You have to identify yourself, and you have to do
it with a phone.  Instead of paying workers too little, it gets rid of them.
<p>
Cambridge, Massachusetts, has posted signs on the street urging people to
go to the restaurant and pick up their order.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Removed_for_inciting_violence)
title: Removed for inciting violence
uri: 2021-11-08-Removed-for-inciting-violence
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Removed_for_inciting_violence)
content:
 
<p>
Ethiopian prime minister Abiy Ahmed posted on Facebook that he would
"bury" the Tigrayan rebels; <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/04/facebook-removes-post-by-ethiopian-pm-for-inciting-violence">Facebook deleted the post for "inciting
violence"</a>.
  That is a rather sbsurd precaution, given that the two armies are at
war.
<p>
Why did Facebook do this?  I speculate that it is an attempt to ridicule
the idea of trying to stop Facebook from being used to provoke violence.

 


title: Israel calls Palestinian human rights groups terrorists
uri: 2021-11-08-Israel-calls-Palestinian-human-rights-groups-terrorists
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Israel_calls_Palestinian_human_rights_groups_terrorists)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Israel_calls_Palestinian_human_rights_groups_terrorists)

content:
 
<p>
*A <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/11/04/secret-israel-dossier-palestinian-rights-terrorist/">secret document distributed by Israel to justify its terrorist designations of six prominent Palestinian human rights groups</a> shows no concrete evidence of involvement in violent
+activities by any of the groups.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Great_Barrier_Reef)
title: Great Barrier Reef
uri: 2021-11-08-Great-Barrier-Reef
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Great_Barrier_Reef)
content:
 
<p>
If global heating continues, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/05/great-barrier-reefs-future-dealt-blow-as-study-finds-only-2-escaped-coral-bleaching">the Great Barrier Reef will be toast</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Cutting_carbom_emissions)
title: Cutting carbom emissions
uri: Cutting-carbom-emissions
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(Cutting_carbom_emissions)
content:
 
<p>
*Q&amp;A: <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/04/qa-how-fast-do-we-need-to-cut-carbon-emissions">how fast do we need to cut carbon emissions?</a>*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(A_particular_allele)
title: A particular allele
uri: 2021-11-08-A-particular-allele
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#5_November_2021_(A_particular_allele)
content:
 
<p>
60% of people from India and vicinity have <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/science/2021/nov/04/gene-common-in-south-asian-people-doubles-risk-of-covid-death-study-finds">a particular allele (gene
variant) that doubles the chance of death from Covid-19</a>.
  However, the allele is also found (though less frequently) in other
human populations.
<p>
I wonder whether people should get tested for this allele.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Urgent:_hello_fresh_union_pay)
title: Hello Fresh unionization drive
uri: 2021-11-08-Hello-Fresh-unionization-drive
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Urgent:_hello_fresh_union_pay)
content:
 
<p>
Everyone: call on Hello Fresh to respect its 
<a href="https://actionnetwork.org/petitions/support-hellofresh-workers-organizing-a-union?source=102721-aflcio-email&link_id=4&can_id=8b24519448cbedadde1c8a966f94caad&email_referrer=email_1338924&email_subject=petition-hellofresh-workers-need-a-union">workers' unionization drive
and pay its workers enough to live on.</a>
<p>
I personally consider it out of the question to be a customer of Hello Fresh
because there is no way to do that anonymously.  But that is a separate
and unrelated issue.

 


title: Defend abortion access for all
uri: 2021-11-08-Defend-abortion-access-for-all
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Urgent:_defend_abortion_access_all)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Urgent:_defend_abortion_access_all)

content:
 
<p>
US citizens: call on your senators to 
<a href="https://action.aclu.org/send-message/defend-abortion-access-all">defend abortion access for all.</a>


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Urgent:_unlock_afghan_assets)
title: Unlock Afghanistan's assets
uri: 2021-11-08-Unlock-Afghanistan-s-assets
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Urgent:_unlock_afghan_assets)
content:
 
<p>
US citizens: call on the US to unlock 
<a href="https://act.winwithoutwar.org/act/release_afghan_assets?source=em20211029&t=1006&akid=7333%2E223515%2EePaqIe">Afghanistan's assets so it can buy food.</a>


 


title: Regulate cancer chemicals
uri: 2021-11-08-Regulate-cancer-chemicals
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Urgent:_regulate_cancer_chemicals)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Urgent:_regulate_cancer_chemicals)

content:
 
<p>
US citizens: call on the EPA to 
<a href="https://actionnetwork.org/forms/regulate-cancer-causing-forever-chemicals?nowrapper=true&referrer=&source=email-sign-the-petition-regulate-forever-chemicals-2">speed up regulating PFAs.</a>


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Africa_plagued_by_antivax)
title: Anti-vax Christian churches.
uri: 2021-11-08-Anti-vax-Christian-churches
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Africa_plagued_by_antivax)
content:
 
<p>
Africa is plagued by 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2021/nov/01/the-sects-hampering-southern-africa-covid-vaccine-rollout">anti-vax Christian churches.</a>
<p>
We have observed similar problems with Christian sects in the US and
South Korea, and with Jews sects in the US and in Israel.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Curb_global_heating_worse)
title: Global heating in time
uri: 2021-11-08-Global-heating-in-time
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Curb_global_heating_worse)
content:
 
<p>
Governments democratic in form have not made an adequate effort
to curb global heating in time, but authoritarian rulers
are 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/books/2021/nov/01/the-big-idea-is-democracy-up-to-the-task-of-climate-change">generally doing much worse.</a>
<p>
The article suggests, and I agree, that more and better democracy is
what we need.  I put a name to the problem: plutocracy, where
democracy ought to be.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Ny_greenhouse_blocked_new)
title: Regulations have blocked construction
uri: 2021-11-08-Regulations-have-blocked-construction
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Ny_greenhouse_blocked_new)
content:
 
<p>
New York State's new greenhouse emissions regulations have 
<a href="https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2021/10/fossil-fuels-doomed-in-new-york-as-regulator-blocks-new-gas-power-plants/">blocked
construction new gas-fired generators.</a>


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Extreme_weather_new_norm)
title: Extreme weather
uri: 2021-11-08-Extreme-weather
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Extreme_weather_new_norm)
content:
 
<p>
*The State of the Climate report for 2021: 
<a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-59105963">Extreme weather events are "the new norm".</a>
*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Pa_thug_bystander_rape)
title: Debunking the Philadelphia thugs' cynical report
uri: 2021-11-08-Debunking-the-Philadelphia-thugs-cynical-report
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Pa_thug_bystander_rape)
content:
 
<p>
Debunking the Philadelphia thugs' cynical report: in fact, some
bystanders did take action when a 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/01/philadelphia-police-bystanders-filming-mistaken-narrative/">rape was committed on a Philadelphia
subway train.</a>


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Global_heating_pressure_blocs)
title: An analysis of global heating
uri: 2021-11-08-An-analysis-of-global-heating
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Global_heating_pressure_blocs)
content:
 
<p>
An analysis of global heating world politics in 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/01/cop26-battle-capitalism-talks-countries-protest-movements">terms of three pressure blocs.</a>
<p>
I disagree with the author's final point.  The crucial priority in
decarbonizanion is not fairness, it is rapidity.
<p>
Going too slow, which the world's governments' current plans would to
do, risks causing the collapse of civilization and the death of nearly
everyone.  Even if those deaths are distributed "fairly", that would
still be a bad outcome.  We must at all costs act fast enough to
minimize the damage.



 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Majid_torture_trial_gitmo)
title: Majid Khan's pseudo-trial
uri: 2021-11-08-Majid-Khan-s-pseudo-trial
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Majid_torture_trial_gitmo)
content:
 
<p>
The jury in Majid Khan's pseudo-trial condemned the 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/01/gitmo-jurors-liken-cia-torture-acts-most-abusive-regimes-modern-history">torture he experienced</a>
and called for him to receive clemency.
<p>
Allowing Majid Khan to testify about how the US tortured him served
the cause of justice, but prosecuting him based on a confession that
was tortured out of him is a dangerous precedent.  Under the usual
rules of the US legal system, his confession should have been
considered inadmissable, the case against him should have been
dropped, and he should have been released.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Sanders_medicare_drug_prices)
title: Sanders is still fighting
uri: 2021-11-08-Sanders-is-still-fighting
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Sanders_medicare_drug_prices)
content:
 
<p>
Sanders is still fighting to allow Medicare to 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/01/were-not-giving-sanders-other-progressives-fight-rescue-drug-price-reforms
">negotiate drug prices</a>
,
<p>
as the national medical services of more civilized countries do.  He
faces opposition from plutocratist Democrats as well as from
(plutocratist and then some) Republicans.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Nz_gases_accounting_trick)
title: Plan to halve greenhouse gases criticized
uri: 2021-11-08-Plan-to-halve-greenhouse-gases-criticized
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Nz_gases_accounting_trick)
content:
 
<p>
*New Zealand plan to halve greenhouse gases criticised as an
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/01/cop26-battle-capitalism-talks-countries-protest-movements">"accounting trick".</a>
*
<p>
It also depends on supposed 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/10/22/carbon-offsets-are-nothing-dangerous-con-job-warns-climate-group">"carbon offsets"</a>
that are not reliable.



 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Britons_march_in_memory)
title: Britons march in memory
uri: 2021-11-08-Britons-march-in-memory
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Britons_march_in_memory)
content:
 
<p>
Every year, Britons march in memory of everyone that 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2021/oct/30/hundreds-march-to-remember-those-who-died-in-state-custody">died as a
prisoner of the British state. </a>
<p>
I don't use the word "custody" to describe this.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Biden_opec_oil_output)
title: Biden urged OPEC to increase it's oil output
uri: 2021-11-08-Biden-urged-OPEC-to-increase-it-s-oil-output
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Biden_opec_oil_output)
content:
 
<p>
Biden urged 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/01/cop26-climate-talks-begin-biden-pressures-opec-boost-oil-production">OPEC to increase its oil output</a>
to relieve a temporary
shortfall of oil, and acknowledged the irony of this.
<p>
He's right, in a narrow sense.  However, I think the economic harm of
capping fossil fuel extraction at the current level would be far less
than the harm done by allowing extraction to increase as the market
would happen.
<p>
An intermediate option would be better if it reduces extraction
effectively and soon.  Perhaps Biden should have demanded such a deal
before asking OPEC to increase extraction.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Archbishop_global_heating_nazi)
title: Push to curb global heating
uri: 2021-11-08-Push-to-curb-global-heating
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Archbishop_global_heating_nazi)
content:
 
<p>
The Archbishop of Canterbury presented clearly how much is at stake
when political leaders decide how hard to push to curb global heating:
inadequate effort could 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2021/nov/01/justin-welby-apologises-for-likening-climate-threat-to-nazis">result in a much bigger genocide</a>
 than the one
Hitler launched.
<p>
Apparently some criticized this statement as disrespectful to Jews,
and he apologized for the alleged disrespect.  This criticism puzzles
me, because I don't see any disrespect in his words.  They seem
entirely valid to me as a statement of the danger that we face.
What are you going to compare the biggest genocide of all time with,
other than the biggest known genocide of the past?
<p>
I think that 6 billion deaths from climate mayhem is plausible.  Of
course, that's just handwaving -- we can't know enough to make more
than a rough estimate.  If we take effective action and are lucky,
perhaps only a few hundred million will die from climate disorder.  If
we run into surprise positive feedbacks, all 7-8 billion humans could
die from climate disorder. All depends on how effectively we curb
global heating.




 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Gas_smitters_spend_more)
title: Gas smitters spend more
uri: 2021-11-08-Gas-smitters-spend-more
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Gas_smitters_spend_more)
content:
 
<p>
The US and other main historical greenhouse gas smitters spend more
on keeping migrants out than they spend on 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/01/why-we-must-defund-global-climate-wall">helping poor countries
deal with global heating effects</a>
<p>
that drive people to leave.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Mn_voters_reject_police_replace)
title: Voters reject bid
uri: 2021-11-08-Voters-reject-bid
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Mn_voters_reject_police_replace)
content:
 
<p>
*Minneapolis voters reject bid to 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/02/minneapolis-police-department-vote-result">replace police with public safety
 department.</a>
*
<p>
I'm disappointed; this would have made it possible to avoid using armed cops
on most instances.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Sotomayor_abortion_kagan_breyer)
title: Bounty-hunter approach
uri: 2021-11-08-Bounty-hunter-approach
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Sotomayor_abortion_kagan_breyer)
content:
 
<p>
Liberal justices argued in the Supreme Court that the Texas
bounty-hunter approach to prohibition would, if allowed to stand, 
<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/11/01/politics/sotomayor-kagan-breyer-texas-abortion-arguments/index.html">enable any state to wipe out any constitutional right.</a>


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Woman_spent_7_hours_er)
title: Woman spent 7 hours in er
uri: 2021-11-08-Woman-spent-7-hours-in-er
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Woman_spent_7_hours_er)
content:
 
<p>
A US woman went to a hospital's emergency room and waited 7 hours
without being seen, so she left. 
<a href="https://boingboing.net/2021/11/01/woman-who-spent-7-hours-in-er-and-left-without-treatment-receives-hospital-bill-for-700.html">The hospital charged her $700 for that.</a>
<p>
Just imagine what they might have charged is someone had actually
looked at her problem!
<p>
The root of this problem is the structure of the US medical system,
which pressures each clinical unit to try to gouge patients.  We need
to replace it with a national medical system funded by the federal
government.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Facebook_delete_1bn_faceprints)
title: Facebook to delete a billion faceprints
uri: 2021-11-08-Facebook-to-delete-a-billion-faceprints
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Facebook_delete_1bn_faceprints)
content:
 
<p>
*Facebook to shut facial recognition system and delete 1bn 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2021/nov/02/facebook-to-shut-facial-recognition-system-and-delete-1bn-faceprints">"faceprints".</a>
*
<p>
How significant the deletion of the faceprints is depends on how hard
it would be to regenerate each one.



 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Big_banks_pledge_reduce)
title: Big banks pledge to reduce
uri: 2021-11-08-Big-banks-pledge-to-reduce
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Big_banks_pledge_reduce)
content:
 
<p>
450 big banks and investment firms will pledge to 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/03/worlds-biggest-banks-to-play-a-role-in-limiting-greenhouse-gas-emissions">reduce greenhouse emissions,</a>
<p>
but it looks like that pledge lacks firm requirements.



 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Sf_thug_sean_moore)
title: A San Francisco thug is charged
uri: 2021-11-08-A-San-Francisco-thug-is-charged
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Sf_thug_sean_moore)
content:
 
<p>
A San Francisco thug is charged with manslaughter for 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/02/san-francisco-police-kenneth-cha-charged-sean-moore">escalating a
nonviolent encounter</a>
with Sean Moore to the point of killing him.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Hong_kong_bans_docu)
title: Hong Kong bans documentaries depicting protests
uri: 2021-11-08-Hong-Kong-bans-documentaries-depicting-protests
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Hong_kong_bans_docu)
content:
 
<p>
Hong Kong now officially 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/03/hong-kong-protests-filmmakers-decry-new-law-that-could-censor-a-moment-in-history">bans documentaries</a>
that depict the massive protests.
<p>
Some will be released by underground groups.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Planning_to_break_away)
title: Planning to break away
uri: 2021-11-08-Planning-to-break-away
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Planning_to_break_away)
content:
 
<p>
Bosnian Serbs <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/02/bosnia-is-in-danger-of-breaking-up-warns-eus-top-official-in-the-state">are reportedly planning to break away from Bosnia again</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Bankers_on_strike)
title: Bankers on strike
uri: 2021-11-08-Bankers-on-strike
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Bankers_on_strike)
content:
 
<p>
In Sudan, bankers are on strike to protest the military government.
This has brought much of the economy to a standstill, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/02/sudanese-bankers-stage-revolutionary-strike-after-military-coup">and is causing
hardship for people who don't have cash to buy food</a>.

<p>
Is it  correct to think of bankers as part of the people?
Is it a good thing that bankers can bring the country to its knees
by striking, or does it show they are dangerously powerful?

<p>
*Mercenaries, the army and Bashir-era business interests <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/02/sudan-coup-military-power-force">have seized
control and will sell the country’s resources to the highest bidder</a>.*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Improbable_history)
title: Improbable history
uri: 2021-11-08-Improbable-history
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Improbable_history)
content:
 
<p>
Afghanistan's improbable history, <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/01/now-time-be-angry-remembering-forgotten-afghanistan">from progressive king to
Communist civil war to religious fanatics</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Push_on_green_energy_and_cars)
title: Push on green energy and cars
uri: 2021-11-08-Push-on-green-energy-and-cars
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Push_on_green_energy_and_cars)
content:
 
<p>
* UK, US and China among countries representing two-thirds of global
   economy to agree to push green energy and cars.* They plan to make
   many technologies cheaper and make them available to the whole
   world, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/02/world-leaders-announce-plan-to-make-green-tech-cheaper-than-alternatives">starting with clean electricity, electric vehicles, green
   steel, elecrolytic hydrogen and sustainable farming</a>.

<p>
This won't make the global heating problem fix itself &mdash; we will still need
to end deforestation, and fund quick adoption of these new solutions.
That will require a lot of investment in poor countries.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Yahoo_leaving)
title: Yahoo leaving
uri: 2021-11-08-Yahoo-leaving
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Yahoo_leaving)
content:
 
<p>
Yahoo has ceased doing business in China <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2021/nov/02/yahoo-withdraws-from-china-as-beijings-grip-on-tech-firms-tightens">rather than obey China's strict state surveillance laws</a>.

<p>
When it is impossible for a US company to operate justly in another country,
it should do as Yahoo just did, and cease operating there.


 


title: Death after being denied abortion
uri: 2021-11-08-Death-after-being-denied-abortion
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Death_after_being_denied_abortion)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Death_after_being_denied_abortion)

content:
 
<p>
A woman died in Poland as a result of being denied an abortion.  This <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/02/polish-activists-protest-after-first-death-in-wake-of-stricter-abortion-law">has
provoked protests</a>.

<p>
This was a special case &mdash; a late-stage abortion which most European
countries would permit on grounds of medical necessity.

<p>
The everyday issue of abortion rights concerns the rights of women who
simply don't want to have a baby.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Suing_to_block_merger)
title: Suing to block merger
uri: 2021-11-08-Suing-to-block-merger
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Suing_to_block_merger)
content:
 
<p>
The US is suing <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/books/2021/nov/02/penguin-simon-schuster-justice-department-sues">to block the merger of Penguin with Simon &amp; Schuster</a>.

<p>
Finally, the US government treats big mergers the way it should never have
stopped treating them.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Antibiotic_resistance)
title: Antibiotic resistance
uri: 2021-11-08-Antibiotic-resistance
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#4_November_2021_(Antibiotic_resistance)
content:
 
<p>
Bacterial infections are becoming ever more dangerous due to
antibiotic resistance, <a href="https://theconversation.com/antibiotic-resistance-is-at-a-crisis-point-government-support-for-academia-and-big-pharma-to-find-new-drugs-could-help-defeat-superbugs-169443">which spreads further every year</a>.
  In a few decades we will be back where we were in 1940, when there wasn't
much to help people fight fight off an infection in a wound.

<p>
The article proposes "more incentives" to develop new antibiotics.  I
fear that means "more patent power, as well as subsidies."  If we
aren't careful, that will result in antibiotics that are too expensive
for most people to use.

<p>
Let's learn a lesson from the other drugs that are so expensive people
die for lack of money.  Let's fund more research on antibiotics, and
exclude them from the patent system.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#3_November_2021_(Biden_ban_offshore_drilling)
title: Ban offshore drilling
uri: 2021-11-08-Ban-offshore-drilling
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#3_November_2021_(Biden_ban_offshore_drilling)
content:
 
<p>
US citizens: call on Biden to ban 
<a href="https://actionnetwork.org/forms/sign-the-petition-stop-offshore-drilling-now?nowrapper=true&referrer=group-civic-shout&source=direct_link">offshore drilling for fossil fuels.</a>



 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#3_November_2021_(Prevent_fbook_rightwing)
title: Facebook promoting right-wing extremism
uri: 2021-11-08-Facebook-promoting-right-wing-extremism
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#3_November_2021_(Prevent_fbook_rightwing)
content:
 
<p>
US citizens: call on Congress to pass laws to prevent Facebook from
promoting 
<a href="https://actionnetwork.org/forms/sign-the-petition-stop-offshore-drilling-now?nowrapper=true&referrer=group-civic-shout&source=direct_link">promoting right-wing extremism</a>
over other views.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#3_November_2021_(New_zealand_greenhouse_gas)
title: Halve greenhouse gas emissions
uri: 2021-11-08-Halve-greenhouse-gas-emissions
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#3_November_2021_(New_zealand_greenhouse_gas)
content:
 
<p>
*New Zealand pledges to halve 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/oct/31/new-zealand-pledges-to-halve-greenhouse-emissions-by-2030">greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.</a>
*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#3_November_2021_(EPA)
title: EPA
uri: 2021-11-08-EPA
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#3_November_2021_(EPA)
content:
 
<p>
*EPA Withheld Reports <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/11/01/epa-toxic-chemicals-reports-withheld/">of Substantial Risk Posed by 1,240 Chemicals</a>.*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#3_November_2021_(Illusion_of_progress)
title: Illusion of progress
uri: 2021-11-08-Illusion-of-progress
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#3_November_2021_(Illusion_of_progress)
content:
 
<p>
*   Optimistic assessments of progress on tackling the climate crisis were
   “an illusion”, the UN secretary general has said <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/01/climate-optimism-is-an-illusion-un-chief-tells-cop26">in a scathing critique
   of world leaders’ efforts so far to cut greenhouse gas emissions and
   stave off climate breakdown</a>.*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#3_November_2021_(Organise)
title: Organise
uri: 2021-11-08-Organise
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#3_November_2021_(Organise)
content:
 
<p>
*Don’t mourn, organise! Politics and poverty <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/01/politics-poverty-us-sitcom-superstore-series">have reached the US
sitcom -– and could change everything</a>.*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#3_November_2021_(Insufficient_climate_commitment)
title: Insufficient climate commitment
uri: 2021-11-08-Insufficient-climate-commitment
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#3_November_2021_(Insufficient_climate_commitment)
content:
 
<p>
India has made a climate commitment <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/01/narendra-modi-pledges-india-will-reach-net-zero-emissions-by-2070">which won't make major reductions
in greenhouse gas emissions until decades from now</a>.
  All countries must push hard to reduce emissions, if we are to have
a chance of avoiding global disaster.

<p>
That global disaster will hit India hard.  Several major Indian cities
are on the coast, at very low elevation, including Mumbai, Kolkata,
Kochi and Kozhikode.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#3_November_2021_(City_employees_and_vaccination)
title: City employees and vaccination
uri: 2021-11-08-City-employees-and-vaccination
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#3_November_2021_(City_employees_and_vaccination)
content:
 
<p>
New York City's order for city employees to get vaccinated <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-new-york/last-minute-shots-shrink-ranks-of-unvaccinated-new-york-cops-firefighters-idUSKBN2HM1XV">convinced a large
fraction to do so</a>.

<p>
However, some occupations have a substantial fraction of workers
who have yielded to right-wng brainwashing; they would rather die
than protect themselves and the public.

<p>
I regret that firefighters have fallen into this irrationality,
because a right-wing fireman is probably a good fireman nonetheless.
However, a right-wing cop is likely to be a racist thug,
therefore a threat to public safety.  It's good to get some
of them off the force.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#3_November_2021_(Manipulation_of_children)
title: Manipulation of children
uri: 2021-11-08-Manipulation-of-children
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#3_November_2021_(Manipulation_of_children)
content:
 
<p>
*As teens left Facebook, <a href="https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2021/11/facebook-wanted-to-hook-6-year-olds-with-new-apps-documents-show/">company planned to lure 6-year-olds</a>, documents show.*

<p>
Let's take care not to focus on manipulation of children
in a way that would excuse Facebook's manipulation of teenagers and adults.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#3_November_2021_(Sense_of_purpose)
title: Sense of purpose
uri: 2021-11-08-Sense-of-purpose
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#3_November_2021_(Sense_of_purpose)
content:
 
<p>
Reporting from Cop26: *<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/01/the-sense-of-purpose-at-cop26-is-tangible">The sense of purpose at Cop26 is tangible</a>.*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#3_November_2021_(Deal_to_end_deforestation)
title: Deal to end deforestation
uri: 2021-11-08-Deal-to-end-deforestation
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#3_November_2021_(Deal_to_end_deforestation)
content:
 
<p>
*Biden, Bolsonaro and Xi <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/01/biden-bolsonaro-and-xi-among-leaders-agreeing-to-end-deforestation-aoe">among leaders agreeing deal to end deforestation</a>.*

<p>
*   Campaigners warn Brazil may make empty promises at Cop26 <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/01/do-not-trust-brazils-greenwashing-promises-say-amazon-activists">to gain access
   to conservation money</a>.*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#3_November_2021_(Fundamental_conflict)
title: Fundamental conflict
uri: 2021-11-08-Fundamental-conflict
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#3_November_2021_(Fundamental_conflict)
content:
 
<p>
The EU and Poland are headed <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/oct/31/boris-johnson-picked-wrong-side-polands-battle-with-eu-over-rule-of-law">for a fundamental conflict which neither
side can afford to lose</a>.

<p>
The EU has a grave flaw in that it is not very democratic.  In its
structure for legislating, democracy plays a weak role.  However, the
Polish right-wing government does not aim to change this.  Its goal is
to break the EU's defense of human rights and honest justice.



 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#3_November_2021_(Climate_summary_trends)
title: Climate-protecting trends
uri: 2021-11-08-Climate-protecting-trends
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#3_November_2021_(Climate_summary_trends)
content:
 
<p>
A summary of 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/oct/31/reasons-to-be-hopeful-the-climate-solutions-available-now">climate-protecting trends</a>
that are seen across the
spectrum of human activity.
<p>
They are not growing fast enough -- we need governments to accelerate
them.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#3_November_2021_(Poland_eu_conflict_flaw)
title: Fundamental conflict
uri: 2021-11-08-Fundamental-conflict
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#3_November_2021_(Poland_eu_conflict_flaw)
content:
 
<p>
The EU and Poland are headed for a 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/oct/31/boris-johnson-picked-wrong-side-polands-battle-with-eu-over-rule-of-law">fundamental conflict which neither
side</a>
<p>
The EU has a grave flaw in that it is not very democratic.  In its
structure for legislating, democracy plays a weak role.  However, the
Polish right-wing government does not aim to change this.  Its goal is
to break the EU's defense of human rights and honest justice.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#3_November_2021_(Texas_schools_race_gender)
title: Texas legislator has demanded
uri: 2021-11-08-Texas-legislator-has-demanded
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#3_November_2021_(Texas_schools_race_gender)
content:
 
<p>
A Republican Texas legislator has demanded that school districts
describe all the books they have that might make students feel
discomfort (or various other negative feelings) about their race or
gender.  
<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/10/28/us/texas-school-books-race-gender-investigation/index.html">The aim seems to be censorship.</a>
<p>
To illustrate how broad the demand is, consider the plays of
Shakespeare.  Othello, The Merchant of Venice, and The Taming of the
Shrew might make students (and others too) uncomfortable for reasons
having to do with race and/or sex.

Will Republicans eventually move to ban them?

If they do, will progressives oppose the move -- or support it?


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#3_November_2021_(Extreme_right_zemmour_dreyfus)
title: Anti-semetic dog whistle
uri: 2021-11-08-Anti-semetic-dog-whistle
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#3_November_2021_(Extreme_right_zemmour_dreyfus)
content:
 
<p>
Probable extreme-right French presidential candidate Zemmour is
using an anti-semitic dog whistle by 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global/2021/oct/30/rise-of-far-right-puts-dreyfus-affair-into-spotlight-in-french-election-race">attacking Alfred Dreyfus.</a>



 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#3_November_2021_(Nz_teach_british_colonization)
title: History of British colonization
uri: 2021-11-08-History-of-British-colonization
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#3_November_2021_(Nz_teach_british_colonization)
content:
 
<p>
New Zealand schools will start teaching the history of 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/commentisfree/2021/nov/02/new-zealands-children-will-all-soon-study-the-countrys-brutal-history-its-not-before-time">British
colonization of New Zealand.</a>
<p>
It is important for New Zealanders to study this history.  I hope
however, that the courses will not fall into the widespread modern
myth of nasty Europeans vs the peaceful united native peoples.  The
Maori were far from peaceful or united before Europeans arrived, and
the desire to despoil others was not limited to Europeans alone.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#3_November_2021_(Australia_export_green_hydrogen)
title: Austraila will export "green hydrogen"
uri: 2021-11-08-Austraila-will-export-green-hydrogen
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#3_November_2021_(Australia_export_green_hydrogen)
content:
 
<p>
Australia will export 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/business/2021/oct/31/jcb-signs-deal-to-import-hydrogen-from-australia-to-uk">"green hydrogen"</a>
to the UK.
<p>
That means hydrogen produced without consumption of fossil fuels.



<li><a name="3_November_2021_(Opponent_va_governor_pretending)"/> 3 November 2021 (<a class="titlelink" href="#3_November_2021_(Opponent_va_governor_pretending)">Opponents pretending to be his supporters</a>)
<p>
Opponents of Virginia's Republican candidate for governor, a
right-wing extremist, 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/oct/30/lincoln-project-glenn-youngkin-virginia-event">went to his rally pretending to be his supporters,</a>
<p>
While swinging the torches that rightwing extremists carried
in the violent rally in 2017.

<p>
It is valid to try to tie right-wing extremists to recent past acts of
violent right-wing extremism, but this way of doing it was wrong and foolish.
<p>
It is wrong because it can have the effect of a false-flag attack.
The Republican candidate denounced it as one, and that was easy to do
because the difference was small.  If you're going to criticize
someone through a comparison, you must show clearly and visibly that
it is a comparison rather than a falsehood.
<p>
Second, it could easily backfire by winning the Republican candidate
more support from white supremacists.


<li><a name="3_November_2021_(India_extremist_persecute_muslim)"/> 3 November 2021 (<a class="titlelink" href="#3_November_2021_(India_extremist_persecute_muslim)">Extremists persecute the minority</a>)
<p>
Just as India's extemist Hindus persecute the Muslim minority,
Bangladesh's extremist Muslims persecute the Hindu minority.

<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/oct/31/hindu-muslim-violence-crosses-border-from-bangladesh-to-india">persecute the Hindu minority.</a>
<p>
The persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh is not a new thing.
Taslima Nasrin's book <Em>Lajja</Em> described that persecution in 1992.
Persecution of Muslims in India is not new either.
<p>
I wonder if these two persecuted minorities can help each other.
Could Indian Muslims campaign in Bangladesh, and Bangladeshi Hindus
campaign in India, for respect and coexistence?

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#2_November_2021_(Crime_of_suing)
title: Crime of suing
uri: 2021-11-08-Crime-of-suing
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#2_November_2021_(Crime_of_suing)
content:
 
<p>
An interview with Steven Donziger, <a href="https://www.democracynow.org/2021/10/27/steven_donziger_judicial_harassment_from_chevron">who has been sent to prison</a> 
  for
suing Chevron on behalf of Ecuadorians whose land was poisoned with oil.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#2_November_2021_(Lawyers_information)
title: Lawyers information
uri: 2021-11-08-Lawyers-information
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#2_November_2021_(Lawyers_information)
content:
 
<p>
UK prosecutors frequently fail to follow the legal requirement to tell
the defendant's lawyers any information that would help per case.  When this
becomes known, the case is dismissed.  Many cases <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/law/2021/oct/31/courts-are-close-to-collapse-over-police-disclosure-failures">are now being dismissed in
this way</a>.
  Prosecutors say that their system
is not set up to carry out the requirement.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#2_November_2021_(Sacrifices)
title: Sacrifices
uri: 2021-11-08-Sacrifices
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#2_November_2021_(Sacrifices)
content:
 
<p>
*Politicians talk about net zero &mdash; <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/oct/31/politicians-net-zero-sacrifices-cop26-climate">but not the sacrifices we must make to get
there</a>.*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#2_November_2021_(Protection_from_privatisation)
title: Protection from privatisation
uri: 2021-11-08-Protection-from-privatisation
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#2_November_2021_(Protection_from_privatisation)
content:
 
<p>
Announcing a campaign <a href="https://www.newstatesman.com/comment/2021/10/why-we-must-fight-to-save-the-nhs-from-privatisation">to protect Britain's NHS from privatization</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#2_November_2021_(Corporations_United_decision)
title: Corporations United decision
uri: 2021-11-08-Corporations-United-decision
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#2_November_2021_(Corporations_United_decision)
content:
 
<p>
The <a href="/glossary.html#corporationsunited">Corporations United</a> decision (*) gave every industry the power to
sneer at Congress &mdash; <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/10/29/poisonous-citizens-united-decision-gave-corporations-power-slash-and-burn-build">and at non-rich Americans</a>.

<p>
* The official name of the organization was "Citizens United&hellip"
But since it represented corporations' rights, I call it "Corporations
United."


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#2_November_2021_(Exponential_tech)
title: Exponential tech
uri: 2021-11-08-Exponential-tech
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#2_November_2021_(Exponential_tech)
content:
 
<p>
Douglas Rushkoff: *<a href="https://onezero.medium.com/exponential-tech-doesnt-serve-social-good-c6263dc5ab66">Exponential Tech Doesn’t Serve Social Good</a>.*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#2_November_2021_(Drones_in_protests)
title: Drones in protests
uri: 2021-11-08-Drones-in-protests
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#2_November_2021_(Drones_in_protests)
content:
 
<p>
The UK government wants to film protesters with drones operating 1500
feet up, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2021/oct/29/police-england-wales-long-range-drone-footage-tender-filming">and identify them without their being able to tell</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#2_November_2021_(Killing_of_billionaire_tax)
title: Killing of billionaire tax
uri: 2021-11-08-Killing-of-billionaire-tax
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#2_November_2021_(Killing_of_billionaire_tax)
content:
 
<p>
Pelosi <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/10/28/pelosi-absolutely-destroyed-tax-billionaires-says-democratic-insider">helped Manchin kill the billionaire tax</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#2_November_2021_(Fascist_threat_to_democracy)
title: Fascist threat to democracy
uri: 2021-11-08-Fascist-threat-to-democracy
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#2_November_2021_(Fascist_threat_to_democracy)
content:
 
<p>
Prominent Liberal and Conservative activists and academics <a href="https://newrepublic.com/article/164153/open-letter-defense-democracy">have joined
to condemn the fascist threat to democracy</a>.

<p>
This includes condemning the Republican Party as it has become,
despite the fact that some of them supported that party in the past.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#2_November_2021_(Driving_while_black)
title: Driving while black
uri: 2021-11-08-Driving-while-black
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#2_November_2021_(Driving_while_black)
content:
 
<p>
*Philadelphia to become first major US city <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/10/30/us/philadelphia-driving-equality-bill/index.html">to ban police from stopping
drivers for low-level traffic violations</a>.*
  The point of this is to protect black drivers from one frequent opportunity
to harass them for "<a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2019-may-aug.html#14_July_2019_(Driving_while_black)">driving while black</a>".


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#2_November_2021_(Preventing_witnesses_to_testify)
title: Preventing witnesses to testify
uri: 2021-11-08-Preventing-witnesses-to-testify
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#2_November_2021_(Preventing_witnesses_to_testify)
content:
 
<p>
The University of Florida told three professors they were forbidden
to testify as expert witnesses <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/10/30/us/university-of-florida-voting-rights/index.html">in a case against Florida's latest
voting restrictions law</a>.

<p>
What the state is doing is much worse than an infringement of academic freedom.
It is an attempt to bias the trial about the constitutionality of the
voting restrictions law, and thus a second attack on democracy piled
on the first one.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#2_November_2021_(Unjust_laws)
title: Unjust laws
uri: 2021-11-08-Unjust-laws
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#2_November_2021_(Unjust_laws)
content:
 
<p>
The history of <a href="https://pluralistic.net/2021/10/28/clintons-ghost/#felony-contempt-of-business-model">the DMCA and other similar unjust laws around the world</a>.

<p>
The DMCA's DRM exceptions process, every three years, is a repeated distraction
from campaigning for what we really need to do: legalize breaking DRM,
and <a href="https://DefectiveByDesign.org">make DRM a crime instead</a>.

<p>
See also my 1997 science fiction story, <a href="https://gnu.org/philosophy/right-to-read.html">The Right To Read</a>,
                                                      which warned
about the dangers of the DMCA as it was still going through Congress.
As far as I can tell, it was the only science fiction story ever
published in the Communications of the ACM.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#2_November_2021_(Important_issues_at_universities)
title: Important issues at universities
uri: 2021-11-08-Important-issues-at-universities
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#2_November_2021_(Important_issues_at_universities)
content:
 
<p>
Universities in the past welcomed argument about important issues.
Now, it seems, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/oct/30/kathleen-stock-departure-shows-universities-cant-cope-with-argument">they let mobs hound those who disagree</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#2_November_2021_(Net_zero_sometime)
title: Net zero sometime
uri: 2021-11-08-Net-zero-sometime
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#2_November_2021_(Net_zero_sometime)
content:
 
<p>
The G20 meeting <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/oct/31/g20-pledge-to-take-climate-action-criticised-for-lacking-ambition">did not agree on aiming for net zero even in 2050</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#2_November_2021_(Barricades)
title: Barricades
uri: 2021-11-08-Barricades
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#2_November_2021_(Barricades)
content:
 
<p>
*Sudan coup protesters <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/oct/31/sudan-coup-protesters-man-barricades-on-seventh-day-of-unrest">man barricades on seventh day of unrest</a>.*

<p>
This followed a day of large protests <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/10/30/africa/sudan-coup-protests-intl/index.html">in which soldiers fired at protesters,
wounding and killing some</a>.



 


title: Urgent: block merger of Amazon and MGM
uri: 2021-11-08-Urgent-block-merger-of-Amazon-and-MGM
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Urgent:_block_merger_of_Amazon_and_MGM)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Urgent:_block_merger_of_Amazon_and_MGM)

content:
 
<p>
US citizens: <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/petitions/tell-the-ftc-to-block-the-amazon-mgm-deal">call on the FTC</a> to block the proposed merger of Amazon
and MGM.

<p>
Any merger that includes (or results in) a large company is harmful;
the details can make it even more harmful, or not.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Buying_homes_in_flood_zones)
title: Buying homes in flood zones
uri: 2021-11-08-Buying-homes-in-flood-zones
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Buying_homes_in_flood_zones)
content:
 
<p>
New Zealand is buying out the homes that are endangered by the
spreading flood zones.  It's much cheaper <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/oct/30/forced-retreat-one-new-zealand-towns-fate-highlights-coming-fight-over-climate-adaptation">than trying to hold back the
floods</a>.

<p>
I would admire the people who stubbornly refuse to move, if their firm
stand could dissuade floods.  But the only way to do that is by
curbing <a href="/glossary.html#global heating">global heating</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Right_to_mock_other_people)
title: Right to mock other people
uri: 2021-11-08-Right-to-mock-other-people
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Right_to_mock_other_people)
content:
 
<p>
Canada's supreme court <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/oct/29/canada-jeremy-gabriel-mike-ward-discrimination">has defended the right to mock other people</a>.

<p>
This is a central part of freedom of speech.  If it were illegal to
mock people and hurt their feelings, you can bet that the first people
you would be punished for mocking would be greedy billionaires and
right-wing politicians.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Gross_manipulation_of_data)
title: Gross manipulation of data
uri: 2021-11-08-Gross-manipulation-of-data
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Gross_manipulation_of_data)
content:
 
<p>
*Australia’s 2050 net zero emissions plan <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2021/oct/30/australias-2050-net-zero-emissions-plan-relies-on-gross-manipulation-of-data-experts-say">relies on ‘gross
manipulation’ of data</a>, experts say.*

<p>
I am not surprised.  The leaders of Australia are <a href="/glossary.html#planet">planet roasters</a>.
After the big fires, they have been compelled to give lip service to
climate defense, but getting more than lip service out of them
will be difficult.


 


title: Making solar power more expensive
uri: 2021-11-08-Making-solar-power-more-expensive
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Making_solar_power_more_expensive)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Making_solar_power_more_expensive)

content:
 
<p>
California is considering a plan <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2021/10/29/clean-energy-groups-urge-california-reject-plan-increases-cost-residential-solar">to make home solar power more expensive</a>???


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Killer_diet)
title: Killer diet
uri: 2021-11-08-Killer-diet
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Killer_diet)
content:
 
<p>
Frances Moore Lappé: *<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/10/29/americas-killer-diet">America's Killer Diet</a>*.


 


title: Pressured to vote for independence
uri: 2021-11-08-Pressured-to-vote-for-independence
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Pressured_to_vote_for_independence)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Pressured_to_vote_for_independence)

content:
 
<p>
New Zealand is pressuring the people of the Tokelau Islands to vote
for independence from New Zealand, but <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/oct/30/is-it-to-satisfy-you-or-to-satisfy-us-why-new-zealands-pacific-colony-doesnt-want-independence">they keep voting to remain
a colony</a>.

<p>
The highest elevation in Tokelau is 5 meters above sea level.  Maybe
the people figure they will be forced to move to New Zealand later
this century.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(AI_advances)
title: AI advances
uri: 2021-11-08-AI-advances
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(AI_advances)
content:
 
<p>
AI is advancing rapidly, and <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2021/oct/29/yeah-were-spooked-ai-starting-to-have-big-real-world-impact-says-expert">the dangers that researchers and science
fiction writers have imagined may hit us soon</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(New_Fourth_Party)
title: New Fourth Party
uri: 2021-11-08-New-Fourth-Party
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(New_Fourth_Party)
content:
 
<p>
(<a href="https://www.theonion.com/andrew-yang-developing-new-fourth-party-after-failing-t-1847957168">satire</a>) *Andrew Yang Developing New Fourth Party After Failing To
Gain Support With Third Party.*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Censure)
title: Censure
uri: 2021-11-08-Censure
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Censure)
content:
 
<p>
(<a href="https://www.theonion.com/texas-school-censors-all-of-huck-finn-except-the-n-wo-1847956839">satire</a>)  *Texas School Censors All Of ‘Huck Finn’ Except The N-Words.*

<p>
*This move will allow educators to focus on the key elements of an
American classic without fear of trafficking in the novel’s harmful
themes of compassion and racial equality.*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Autonomous_rocket)
title: Autonomous rocket
uri: 2021-11-08-Autonomous-rocket
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Autonomous_rocket)
content:
 
<p>
(<a href="https://www.theonion.com/spacex-under-fire-after-autonomous-rocket-hits-pedestri-1847946787">satire</a>) *SpaceX Under Fire After Autonomous Rocket Hits Pedestrian.*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Unfairly_targeted)
title: Unfairly targeted
uri: 2021-11-08-Unfairly-targeted
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Unfairly_targeted)
content:
 
<p>
(<a href="https://www.theonion.com/billionaire-buying-sandwich-unfairly-targeted-with-5-s-1847956045">satire</a>) *Billionaire Buying Sandwich Unfairly Targeted With 5% Sales Tax.*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Redemptive_violence)
title: Redemptive violence
uri: 2021-11-08-Redemptive-violence
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Redemptive_violence)
content:
 
<p>
*The Myth of Redemptive Violence* says that <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/10/28/myth-redemptive-violence">the way to solve the
world's problems is by killing</a>.


 


title: Urgent: End support to war in Yemen
uri: 2021-11-08-Urgent-End-support-to-war-in-Yemen
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Urgent:_End_support_to_war_in_Yemen)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Urgent:_End_support_to_war_in_Yemen)

content:
 
<p>
US citizens: <a href="https://act.rootsaction.org/p/dia/action4/common/public/?action_KEY=14082">call on your congresscritter</a> to end US support for the
war in Yemen.

<p>
To sign <a href="https://gnu.org/philosophy/javascript-trap.html">without running nonfree JavaScript code</a>
                                                from the web site,
use <a href="https://stallman.org/salsalabs-method.html">the Salsalabs workaround</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Urgent:_abolish_PAT_RIOT_Act)
title: Urgent: abolish PAT RIOT Act
uri: 2021-11-08-Urgent-abolish-PAT-RIOT-Act
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Urgent:_abolish_PAT_RIOT_Act)
content:
 
<p>
US citizens: <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/forms/sign-the-petition-demand-congress-end-the-us-surveillance-state-permanently-end-the-patriot-act-and-fight-warrantless-surveillance-everywhere-it-occurs?nowrapper=true">call on Congress</a> to abolish the PAT RIOT Act.



 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Eric_garner_nypd_inquiry)
title: Seven years
uri: 2021-11-08-Seven-years
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Eric_garner_nypd_inquiry)
content:
 
<p>
Seven years after a 
<a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/10/29/eric-garner-bill-de-blasio-nypd-killing-inquiry/">New York City thug</a>
killed Eric Garner, the high
officers of the thug department have refused to testify in an investigation of the killing.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Global_heating_emitters)
title: Greenhouse gases
uri: 2021-11-08-Greenhouse-gases
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Global_heating_emitters)
content:
 
<p>
Global heating effects including fires and droughts, plus deforestation,
have turned some important forests into 
<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/10/27/world/unesco-world-heritage-sites-carbon-emissions-climate/index.html">net emitters of greenhouse gases.</a>
<p>
This shows several examples of positive-feedback effects that magnify
the consequences of our emissions.  These examples are well-known, but
we keep discovering new ones.
Meanwhile, some countries are falsifying their progress by 
<a href="https://www.wired.co.uk/article/forest-counting-climate-change">citing
forests</a>
that don't really exist.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Outcry_prisoner_vomits)
title: Oklahoma outcry
uri: 2021-11-08-Oklahoma-outcry
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Outcry_prisoner_vomits)
content:
 
<p>
*Outcry after Oklahoma prisoner 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/oct/29/oklahoma-prisoner-convulsed-vomited-execution-john-grant">vomits and convulses during execution.</a>
*
<p>
I am surprised that people give so much importance to whether the
person being excuted suffers during the process, because in my view
that is a secondary issue.  I think the principal wrong of the death
penalty is that the prisoner dies from it.
<p>
[pol note from many years ago where I state reasons for opposing th
death penalty]

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Cop26_require_make_good)
title: Breakthrough
uri: 2021-11-08-Breakthrough
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Cop26_require_make_good)
content:
 
<p>
*Cop26 breakthrough will require 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/10/28/today-was-day-big-oil-lied-congress">require rich nations to finally make good</a>
<p>
Nobody has to suffer from this, if we get the funds by taxing the rich more.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Oil_exec_lied_congress)
title: Oil company executives testified
uri: 2021-11-08-Oil-company-executives-testified
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Oil_exec_lied_congress)
content:
 
<p>
Oil company executives testified to Congress and told
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/10/28/today-was-day-big-oil-lied-congress">blatant lies
about their past denial</a>
of global heating.
<p>
But they did admit to recent lobbying meetings with Manchin.

Rep. Maloney 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/oct/28/exxon-ceo-accused-lying-climate-science-congressional-panel">specifically accused the Exxon CEO</a>
lying about climate
science. under oath.
<p>
There are plans to subpoena more testimony from these companies.

*What Big Oil knew about climate change, 

<a href="https://theconversation.com/what-big-oil-knew-about-climate-change-in-its-own-words-170642">in its own words.*</a>
<p>
Some conclusions about 

<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/10/28/theyre-lying-lots-climate-misinformation-detected-during-testimony-big-oil-ceos">planet-roaster strategy.</a>




 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Manchin_denied_paid_leave)
title: Manchin denied paid leave
uri: 2021-11-08-Manchin-denied-paid-leave
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Manchin_denied_paid_leave)
content:
 
<p>
*Joe Manchin single-handedly denied 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/oct/29/joe-manchin-denied-us-families-paid-parental-leave">US families paid leave.</a>
*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Capitalism_killing_planet)
title: Carbon tax
uri: 2021-11-08-Carbon-tax
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Capitalism_killing_planet)
content:
 
<p>
The companies that created the 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/oct/30/capitalism-is-killing-the-planet-its-time-to-stop-buying-into-our-own-destruction">world's biggest environmental problems</a>
also launch PR campaigns to distract individuals into striving to reduce
their personal contributions to these problems, instead of organizing to
change the systems that cause them.  They also lull people with the
fantasy that they might someday enjoy the life styles of millionaires.
<p>
I disagree with Monbiot's dismissal of a carbon tax.  If the tax rate
is big enough, and schduled to grow steadingly year by year, it can
mobilize massive investment in decarbonization along with general
divestment from fossil fuel companies.

What won't work is a small, token carbon tax.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Khan_prisoner_testified)
title: Khan prisoner testified
uri: 2021-11-08-Khan-prisoner-testified
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Khan_prisoner_testified)
content:
 
<p>
Majid Khan, prisoner in Guantanamo, 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/oct/29/going-die-guantanamo-prisoner-torture-testimony">has testified about how the US
tortured him.</a>
<p>
He has confessed to aiding al-Qa'ida, but we cannot know whether he
really did so.  Torture is quite effective at eliciting false
confessions -- that is what it's designed for -- so we cannot presume
he deserved the punishment he has already received.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Beekeepers_ai_hives)
title: Beehive-protection AI
uri: 2021-11-08-Beehive-protection-AI
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Beekeepers_ai_hives)
content:
 
<p>
A company proposes to make 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/oct/29/beehero-bee-colonies-collapse-us-high-tech-solution">beehive-protection AI systems</a>
beekeepers' hives.
<p>
I forecast these will do to beekeepers what John Deere tracters are
doing to farmers.



 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Jubilee_fund_cancel_debt)
title: Jubilee fund
uri: 2021-11-08-Jubilee-fund
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Jubilee_fund_cancel_debt)
content:
 
<p>
The Rolling Jubilee Fund frees Americans from 
<a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/10/29/debt-cancellation-carceral-bail/">debt-based perpetual
punishment by buying their debt and cancelling it.</a>


 


title: Urgent: Settle Build Back Batter bill
uri: 2021-11-08-Urgent-Settle-Build-Back-Batter-bill
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Urgent:_Settle_Build_Back_Batter_bill)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Urgent:_Settle_Build_Back_Batter_bill)

content:
 
<p>

US citizens: phone your congresscritter and say, refuse to have a vote on the
infrastructure bill until the Build Back Better bill is settled and certain
to be adopted.

<p>The Capitol Switchboard number is 202-224-3121.</p>
<p>If you call, please spread the word!</p>

Recall that the infrastructure bill is a weak "bipartisan" compromise,
which progressives accepted only as part of a deal that the Build Back
Better bill would accompany it.  However, since September plutocratist
House Democrats have been trying to <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2021-sep-dec.html#22_October_2021_(Build_back_better_bill)">separate them</a>;
if they succeed at that, Manchin
could kill the Build Back Better bill entirely.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Urgent:_Weak_infrastructure_bill)
title: Urgent: Weak infrastructure bill
uri: 2021-11-08-Urgent-Weak-infrastructure-bill
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Urgent:_Weak_infrastructure_bill)
content:
 
<p>

US citizens: call on Congress to <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/forms/demand-congress-hold-the-line-no-vote-on-the-bipartisan-infrastructure-compromise-without-a-vote-on-the-build-back-better-act">refuse to vote on the weak infrastructure
compromise</a> without a vote on the Build Back Better Act.
<p>
Even though plutocratists such as Manchin and Sinema got rid of 4/5 of
the original Build Back Better proposal, the Build Back Better act is
still crucial because it has a lot of climate defense.  We must insist
that it pass.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Punishment_for_requiring_masks)
title: Punishment for requiring masks
uri: 2021-11-08-Punishment-for-requiring-masks
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Punishment_for_requiring_masks)
content:
 
<p>

Biden offered two California school boards federal funds to compensate
for the salary funds that Disease DeSantis denied them as punishment for
requiring masks.  Now DeSantis has <a href="https://arstechnica.com/science/2021/10/florida-strips-federal-funding-from-schools-as-further-punishment-for-masking/">arbitrarily fined them the same
amount again</a>.
<p>
This act violates federal law, so maybe a court will order Florida to deliver
those funds.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Metaverse)
title: "Metaverse"
uri: 2021-11-08-Metaverse
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Metaverse)
content:
 
<p>

Facebook's "metaverse" means many more kinds of sensors <a href="https://slate.com/technology/2021/10/facebook-metaverse-privacy-meta-what-it-means.html">feeding new
kinds of data</a> into each zucker's dossier.
<p>
Facebook's attempt to rebrand itself is <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/10/29/hands-varoufakis-tells-zuckerberg-after-facebook-steals-meta-name-anti-capitalist">much worse than a distraction</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_((satire)_Child_care_crisis)
title: (satire) Child care crisis
uri: 2021-11-08-(satire)-Child-care-crisis
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_((satire)_Child_care_crisis)
content:
 
<p>

(satire) *Congress Addresses Child Care Crisis By <a href="https://www.theonion.com/congress-addresses-child-care-crisis-by-loosening-restr-1847958367">Loosening
Restrictions</a> On Locking Children In Car For 8 Hours.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Venezuela_elections)
title: Venezuela elections
uri: 2021-11-08-Venezuela-elections
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_November_2021_(Venezuela_elections)
content:
 
<p>

Venezuela will have another election, with many parties, and the
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/10/29/us-policy-toward-venezuela-was-never-about-promoting-democracy">situation is complex</a>.  The US-supported extreme opposition is less
popular than moderate opposition.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#8_November_2021_(Progressive_defeat_bbb_mistake)
title: Progressives made a mistake
uri: Progressives-made-a-mistake
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#8_November_2021_(Progressive_defeat_bbb_mistake)
content:
 
<p>
Progressives made a mistake, then suffered a defeat, regarding
the 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/05/foolishness-house-passes-infrastructure-bill-postpones-build-back-better-act">Build Back Better (relief and climate) bill.</a>
<p>
The mistake was to allow a vote on the infrastructure bill before the
relief and climate bill had been signed into law.  I can't understand
why they did this, since they had insisted vehemently that it would
risk allowing plutocratists to gut or kill the relief and clinate
bill.
<p>
Next thing you know, the plutocratists starting doing just that.



 


title: Conservation or land-grab financialization
uri: Conservation-or-land-grab-financialization
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#8_November_2021_(Wallstreet_natural_capital_private)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#8_November_2021_(Wallstreet_natural_capital_private)

content:
 
<p>
Wall Street took the idea of 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/06/conservation-or-land-grab-financialization-nature">"natural capital" literally:</a>
the New York Stock Exchange now offers to list a special type of corporation which represents the
benefits that flow from some natural ecosystem, as a private good.
<p>
Blackrock is not altruistic.  If it buys land, it will not dedicate
that land to a good purpose.  At least, not once there is something
more profitable to do with it.
<p>
I suspect this will promote the privatization of state lands so that their "ecosystem services" can be owned by big companies.  Next thing you know, the lands might be bought up by a "private equity" asset stripper that will remove
the water, the vegetation, or whatever is profitable to sell off.
<p>
Meanwhile, they will resell the land minus its "ecosystem services"
for other uses.  If you live in a house on that land, you may find
that the previous owner -- Blackrock? -- signed away your right to
object to the asset stripping or whatever else the owner of the
"natural capital" decides to do there.  That's what happens if someone
else owns oil or fracking rights under your house.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#8_November_2021_(Uk_bigotry_among_cops)
title: UK official concerned with bigotry among cops
uri: UK-official-concerned-with-bigotry-among-cops
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#8_November_2021_(Uk_bigotry_among_cops)
content:
 
<p>
A UK official concerned with 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2021/nov/06/weed-out-police-misogyny-and-racism-with-phone-checks-says-uk-watchdog">bigotry among cops proposes to monitor
their digital communications,</a>
I have mixed opinions about this proposal.
<p>
There are situations in which it is acceptable for the state to open a
person's letters, but I think they call for a court order based on
specific reasons to open <Em>that person</Em>?&#39s letters.
<p>
On the one hand, it is legitimate to monitor cops systematically in
ways that would be unjust to apply to people in general.  It is very
important to fire cops that engage in bigotry, because they are likely
to be thugs.
<p>
On the other hand, doing this to cops might encourage the state to do
it to others.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#8_November_2021_(Legal_right_monitor_brain)
title: Legal right to decide who is allowed to monitor your brain.
uri: Legal-right-to-decide-who-is-allowed-to-monitor-your-brain
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#8_November_2021_(Legal_right_monitor_brain)
content:
 
<p>
Proposing the legal right to decide 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2021/nov/07/our-notion-of-privacy-will-be-useless-what-happens-if-technology-learns-to-read-our-minds">who is allowed to monitor your brain.</a>
<p>


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#8_November_2021_(Australia_refugees_prisoner_mil)
title: $500 million per year holding refugees prisoner
uri: 500-million-per-year-holding-refugees-prisoner
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#8_November_2021_(Australia_refugees_prisoner_mil)
content:
 
<p>
Australia spends 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2021/nov/07/cost-of-australia-holding-each-refugee-on-nauru-balloons-to-43m-a-year">$500 million per year holding refugees prisoner on Nauru.</a>
<p>
Millions for cruelty, but not one cent for kindness.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#8_November_2021_(Climate_protests_fury_glasgow)
title: Large rallies for climate defense
uri: Large-rallies-for-climate-defense
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#8_November_2021_(Climate_protests_fury_glasgow)
content:
 
<p>
There were large rallies for 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/06/climate-protests-fury-and-optimism-in-the-glasgow-rain">climate defense on Saturday in many
cities around the world,</a>


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#8_November_2021_(Police_traffic_stops_shooting)
title: Police traffic stops shooting
uri: Police-traffic-stops-shooting
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#8_November_2021_(Police_traffic_stops_shooting)
content:
 
<p>
It is not unusual for a thug to shoot and kill a black man who is
driving a car, then claim, falsely, that the 
<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2021/11/06/us/police-traffic-stops-shooting.html">car was a deadly weapon
and the victim had threatened the thug's life with it.</a>
<p>
Sometimes the thug jumps in front of the car, notices that the car is
heading straight at him, and then shoots and kills the driver.  How
easy it is to turn any driver into a deadly threat that you simply
must shoot.
<p>
This explains why it is very helpful to 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/05/03/want-fewer-police-shootings-get-armed-cops-out-traffic-enforcement">adopt a policy that thugs
should not stop a car for a minor traffic violation.</a>
<p>
The article linked to at the start of this note displays symbolic
bigotry by capitalizing "black" but not "white".  (To avoid endorsing
bigotry, capitalize both words or neither one.)  I object to bigotry,
and normally I decline to link to articles which promote it.  But I
make exceptions for some articles which give important information
about racism or the fight to eliminate racism.  That article is one of
the exceptions.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#8_November_2021_(I_get_scared)
title: I get scared
uri: I-get-scared
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#8_November_2021_(I_get_scared)
content:
 
<p>
*'I get scared': the young activists <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/07/young-activists-climate-tipping-points-coral-reefs-ice-sheets">sounding the alarm from climate
tipping points</a>.*

<p>
What they are warning about is not specific tipping points.  We
usually don't know exactly where those are located.  Rather, it is
the fact that systems are starting to tip.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#8_November_2021_(Assange_blocked_from_marrying)
title: Assange blocked from marrying
uri: Assange-blocked-from-marrying
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#8_November_2021_(Assange_blocked_from_marrying)
content:
 
<p>
*Julian Assange and fiancee <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/media/2021/nov/07/julian-assange-fiancee-stella-moris-claim-marriage-blocked">claim they are being blocked from marrying</a>.*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#8_November_2021_(Getting_richer)
title: Getting richer
uri: Getting-richer
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#8_November_2021_(Getting_richer)
content:
 
<p>
Robert Reich: The US rich have got much richer because their political
clout enabled them to cut their taxes.  They have mostly <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/07/cruelest-form-capitalism-world">neutralized the
wealth taxes that the US adopted around 1900</a>.

<p>
We can make them function again, if we are determined.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#8_November_2021_(Anti-vaxx_thugs)
title: Anti-vaxx thugs
uri: Anti-vaxx-thugs
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#8_November_2021_(Anti-vaxx_thugs)
content:
 
<p>
New York City <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/04/why-are-so-many-nypd-officers-fighting-vaccination">should deal with anti-vaxx thugs by getting stricter</a>.

<p>
I suggest asking the public to send in photos of <a href="/glossary.html#thug">thugs</a> who are
unmasked in public &mdash; and fine the <a href="/glossary.html#thug">thugs</a> $100 for each occasion they
are proved to have been maskless.  Half of that could be a reward for
whoever took the photo.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#8_November_2021_(Ability_to_manufacture_vaccines)
title: Ability to manufacture vaccines
uri: Ability-to-manufacture-vaccines
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#8_November_2021_(Ability_to_manufacture_vaccines)
content:
 
<p>
Pfizer and Moderna claim that non-rich countries have no ability to
manufacture mRNA vaccines &mdash; <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/05/big-pharma-lies-about-vaccine-patents-protect-profits">but that is false</a>.

<p>
Of course, it would be easy to put this to the test.  Tell them what
they need to know, and we will soon see whether they succeed in making
the vaccine.

<p>
The article's authors have fallen into the fundamental confusion
spread by the term "intellectual property".  If you use that
pseudo-concept, what you say about patents will be false because lots
of things that describe various other laws <a href="https://gnu.org/philosophy/not-ipr.html">will be mixed into the
mishmash</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#8_November_2021_(Cameras_in_every_home)
title: Cameras in every home
uri: Cameras-in-every-home
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#8_November_2021_(Cameras_in_every_home)
content:
 
<p>
Dave Eggers warns that there will be a campaign to put cameras in
every home.  The stated purpose <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/books/2021/nov/06/the-every-is-about-an-all-powerful-monopoly-that-seeks-to-eliminate-competition-why-dave-eggers-wont-sell-his-new-hardback-on-us-amazon">will be to stamp out domestic violence</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#8_November_2021_(Out_of_jail)
title: Out of jail
uri: Out-of-jail
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#8_November_2021_(Out_of_jail)
content:
 
<p>
When Americans get out of jail, many of them owe more than $10,000 to
the court, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/06/millions-of-americans-owe-court-fees-or-other-carceral-debt-this-must-end">an amount than a poor person in America can't pay</a>.

<p>
Then there is the debt for probation, owed to the private company that
runs probation and charges the not-quite-ex-con a lot of money.

<p>
It should be forbidden to privatize any aspect of prisons, courts, or
the justice system.

<p>
I was disappointed that this campaign uses an app.  It is almost
surely nonfree.  Can someone find out if it is possible to deal with
the campaign by phone call?



 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#9_November_2021_(Measure_of_mental_state)
title: Measure of mental state
uri: Measure-of-mental-state
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#9_November_2021_(Measure_of_mental_state)
content:
 
<p>
Rssearch is trying to use snoop phone sensors <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2021/nov/07/the-dawn-of-tappigraphy-does-your-smartphone-know-how-you-feel-before-you-do">to measure a person's
mental state</a>.
  If this ever works, it will enable manipulation/marketing companies
to determine which ads work for each person specific who sees them,
and to brainwash people ad lib.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#9_November_2021_(Counter_climate_summit)
title: Counter climate summit
uri: Counter-climate-summit
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#9_November_2021_(Counter_climate_summit)
content:
 
<p>
In the "counter climate summit", activists <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/07/counter-climate-summit-kicks-off-as-activists-lament-cop26-inaction">will present climate defense
proposals that COP26 is not seriously considering</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#9_November_2021_(Steal_of_workers_wages)
title: Steal of workers wages
uri: Steal-of-workers-wages
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#9_November_2021_(Steal_of_workers_wages)
content:
 
<p>
*Australia's Largest University <a href="https://jacobinmag.com/2021/11/australias-largest-university-stole-8-6-million-from-workers-wages">Stole $8.6 Million From Workers' Wages</a>.*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#9_November_2021_(Traffic_stops)
title: Traffic stops
uri: Traffic-stops
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#9_November_2021_(Traffic_stops)
content:
 
<p>
Cities use traffic stops <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2021/10/31/us/police-ticket-quotas-money-funding.html">to brutally squeeze money out of people that
can barely afford it</a>.

<p>
Ultimately, plutocracy is to blame.  The rich have escaped most taxation,
so cities have to gouge the poor.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#9_November_2021_(Illegal_surveillance)
title: Illegal surveillance
uri: Illegal-surveillance
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#9_November_2021_(Illegal_surveillance)
content:
 
<p>
*US citizens v FBI: Will the government <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/law/2021/nov/07/us-citizens-fbi-government-surveillance-guilty-9-11-muslims">face charges for illegal surveillance</a>?*
  Specifically, snooping on people for being Muslims rather that based on
any evidence of criminal activity.


 


title: Survivors of massacres ask for apology
uri: Survivors-of-massacres-ask-for-apology
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#9_November_2021_(Survivors_of_massacres_ask_for_apology)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#9_November_2021_(Survivors_of_massacres_ask_for_apology)

content:
 
<p>
*Survivors of 1965 Indonesia massacres <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2021/oct/24/nationals-agree-to-net-zero-target-by-2050-despite-barnaby-joyces-opposition">urge UK to apologize</a>.*
  And the US, of course.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#9_November_2021_(Psychedelics_as_treatments)
title: Psychedelics as treatments
uri: Psychedelics-as-treatments
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#9_November_2021_(Psychedelics_as_treatments)
content:
 
<p>
Psychiatry is opening <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/science/2021/nov/07/will-the-magic-of-psychadelics-transform-psychiatry">to the idea of psychedelics as treatments</a>.
  Sometimes a single dose is enough to treat PTSD.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#9_November_2021_(Urgent:_stop_funding_OAN_network)
title: Urgent: stop funding OAN network
uri: Urgent-stop-funding-OAN-network
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#9_November_2021_(Urgent:_stop_funding_OAN_network)
content:
 
<p>
US citizens: <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/forms/sign-the-petition-att-should-stop-funding-right-wing-lies/">call on AT&amp;T</a> to stop funding the right-wing OAN network.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#9_November_2021_(Thugs_targeting_store)
title: Thugs targeting store
uri: Thugs-targeting-store
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#9_November_2021_(Thugs_targeting_store)
content:
 
<p>
*Revealed: how LAPD <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/07/revealed-nipsey-hussle-lapd-the-marathon-clothing">targeted Nipsey Hussle’s street corner and store</a>,*
  apparently because he was black and didn't "know his place."

<p>
If the <a href="/glossary.html#thug">thugs</a> really wanted to reduce crime, they would have encouraged
his efforts to build up honest small business in a depressed area.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#9_November_2021_(Sick-leave)
title: Sick-leave
uri: 2021-11-09-Sick-leave
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#9_November_2021_(Sick-leave)
content:
 
<p>
The main reason to give workers paid sick-leave is so they don't get
worn down by a hard life.  But if that's not enough to convince you,
keep in mind that sick leave for contagious diseases <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/07/poor-sick-pay-is-bad-for-ill-workers-and-society-at-large">helps protect
everyone from catching a disease</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#9_November_2021_(Discrimination_action)
title: Discrimination action
uri: Discrimination-action
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#9_November_2021_(Discrimination_action)
content:
 
<p>
*Married lesbian couple <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/07/married-lesbian-couple-launch-discrimination-action-against-nhs">launch discrimination action against [UK
 National Health System]</a>.*

<p>
It is wrong to discriminate in offering fertility assistance of any
kind.  Everyone who applies should get the same answer: "Fertility
services suspended until Earth's human population falls below one
billion.  In the mean time, adopt a child instead."


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#9_November_2021_(Climate_mayhem)
title: Climate mayhem
uri: 2021-11-09-Climate-mayhem
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#9_November_2021_(Climate_mayhem)
content:
 
<p>
<a href="/glossary.html#climate">Climate mayhem</a> has already killed more Americans than terrorism.
And it's going to keep killing increasing numbers of Americans.
The US <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/07/its-time-to-shift-from-the-war-on-terror-to-a-war-on-climate-change">should shift to a war on greenhouse gas emissions</a>.

<p>
The first step is to stop using an emotionally neutral term such as
"climate change" to describe the threat.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#10_November_2021_(Outrageous_cost_bbb_act)
title: Outrageous Cost
uri: Outrageous-Cost
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#10_November_2021_(Outrageous_cost_bbb_act)
content:
 
<p>
*When Are We Going to Talk About the Outrageous Cost of 
<"https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/08/when-are-we-going-talk-about-outrageous-cost-not-passing-build-back-better-act">NOT Passing the Build
Back Better Act?</a>*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#10_November_2021_(Kabul_drone_strike_pis)
title: Treated it as unquestioable truth.
uri: Treated-it-as-unquestioable-truth
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#10_November_2021_(Kabul_drone_strike_pis)
content:
 
<p>
Analyzing how US troops 
<"https://theintercept.com/2021/11/04/kabul-drone-strike-military-investigation-intelligence/">mistook a family for a PIS bomber and then
treated it as unquestioable truth.</a>
<p>
It would not be just, or useful, to criminalize this mistake, but it
is important to change the system to prevent future similar mistakes.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#10_November_2021_(Democrat_centrism_doomed_trump)
title: Doomed to lose against Trump.
uri: Doomed-to-lose-against-Trump
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#10_November_2021_(Democrat_centrism_doomed_trump)
content:
 
<p>
*If Democrats return to [so-called] centrism, 
<"https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/08/if-democrats-return-to-centrism-they-are-doomed-to-lose-against-trump">they are doomed to lose
 against Trump.</a>*
<p>
"Centrists" is the propaganda word that plutocratists use to pretend
that the political center of the US is where they are, just as the
communists called themselves "Bolshavik" ("on the big side") to
pretend that they represented the majority of socialists.  Let's
not spread that falsehood.  According to an opinion polls,

<p>
an overwhelming
majority of Americans support the main political positions of
progressives Democrats.  The proper term for the "centrists" is
"pluocratist."

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#10_November_2021((Urgent)_end_filibuster_senate)
title: Urgent: US citizens: call on the Senate to end the filibuster.
uri: Urgent-US-citizens-call-on-the-Senate-to-end-the-filibuster
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#10_November_2021((Urgent)_end_filibuster_senate)
content:
 
<p>
US citizens: call on the Senate to end the filibuster.
<a href="https://act.demandprogress.org/sign/voting-rights-nov/?t=1001&akid=28579%2E96703%2EgzYWpc">US citizens: call on the Senate to end the filibuster.</a>
<p>
It is important to keep up the pressure on this point.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#10_November_2021(Cop_26_destructive_system)
title: Cop26 leaders blame individuals
uri: Cop26-leaders-blame-individuals
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#10_November_2021(Cop_26_destructive_system)
content:
 
<p>
<p>
*Cop26 leaders blame individuals, 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/09/cop26-leaders-climate-crisis">while supporting a far more destructive
system.</a>*
<p>
*hellip; we can return to the question of individual consumption and
ask if there are ways of making our personal choices as a way of
developing =– rather than distracting from -– systemic change.*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#10_November_2021_((satire)_amazon_alexas_busy)
title: (satire) Amazon Assures Customers That Alexas Far Too Busy
uri: (satire)-Amazon-Assures-Customers-That-Alexas-Far-Too-Busy
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#10_November_2021_((satire)_amazon_alexas_busy)
content:
 
<p>
(satire) *Amazon Assures Customers That Alexas 
<"https://www.theonion.com/amazon-assures-customers-that-alexas-far-too-busy-devis-1848005437">Far Too Busy Devising
Their Own Plans To Listen In On Private Conversations.</a>*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#10_November_2021(Copper_mining_dark_side)
title: Copper mining dark side
uri: Copper-mining-dark-side
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#10_November_2021(Copper_mining_dark_side)
content:
 
<p>
The demand for copper is increasing and this means more mining. 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/09/copper-mining-reveals-clean-energy-dark-side">The mines
often pollute water supplies, and they don't take responsibility for cleaning
up mining or pollution.</a>
<p>
US mining law is not effective at making those who profited from the
mine pay for cleaning up its pollution later.  The corporation is
likely to go bankrupt as soon as the mine stops producing.  I think it
would be more effective put an environmental tax on operating a mine,
which will cover what the government is likely to have to pay to clean
it up later.



 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#10_November_2021(Fossil_fuel_cop26_lobbyists)
title: Fossil Fuel Lobbyists Have Larger Presence at COP26
uri: Fossil-Fuel-Lobbyists-Have-Larger-Presence-at-COP26
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#10_November_2021(Fossil_fuel_cop26_lobbyists)
content:
 
<p>
*Fossil Fuel Lobbyists Have Larger Presence at COP26 Than Any Single
 Country.*  
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/08/fossil-fuel-lobbyists-have-larger-presence-cop26-any-single-country-report">It totals over 500 people.</a>
<p>
Each of them was authorized by some country or other entity.  Thus,
Brazil's contingent of 479 people includes some of those 500 fossil
fuel lobbyists.


 


title: Portugal's new law
uri: Portugal-s-new-law
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#10_November_2021(Portugal_law_penalties_contacting)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#10_November_2021(Portugal_law_penalties_contacting)

content:
 
<p>
Portugal's new law gives new rights to remote workers, including the
penaties to the employer for 
<a href="https://www.euronews.com/next/2021/11/08/portugal-makes-it-illegal-for-your-boss-to-text-you-after-work">contacting workers outside of their
working day.</a>


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#10_November_2021(Paternity_leave_helps_couples)
title: Paternity leave helps couples stay together
uri: Paternity-leave-helps-couples-stay-together
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#10_November_2021(Paternity_leave_helps_couples)
content:
 
<p>
Paternity leave 
<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2021/11/08/opinion/paid-family-leave-fathers.html">helps couples stay together.</a>

 


title: Singapore will charge for treatment
uri: Singapore-will-charge-for-treatment
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#10_November_2021(Singapore_will_charge_unvaccinated)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#10_November_2021(Singapore_will_charge_unvaccinated)

content:
 
<p>
Singapore will charge for treatment for Covid-19 infection of people
who are 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/09/singapore-to-start-charging-covid-patients-who-are-unvaccinated-by-choice">unvaccinated by choice.</a>
<p>
This is fair, and will convince many to get vaccinated and thus be safer.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#10_November_2021(New_zealand_anti_vaxxer)
title: A twisted mishmash
uri: A-twisted-mishmash
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#10_November_2021(New_zealand_anti_vaxxer)
content:
 
<p>
In New Zealand, a few thousand anti-vaxxers mounted a protest outside
Parliament, 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/09/new-zealand-anti-vaccine-mandate-protests-police-and-photographer-attacked">advocating a twisted mishmash of various right-wing lunacies.</a>
<p>
People have a right to rally nonviolently for any views, including
these.  But if they violate (or threaten to violate) measures to stop
the spread of Covid-19, they should be subject to immediate
vaccination as a public safety measure.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#10_November_2021(People_suffer_extreme_heat)
title: A billion people will suffer
uri: A-billion-people-will-suffer
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#10_November_2021(People_suffer_extreme_heat)
content:
 
<p>
*1bn people will suffer 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/09/new-zealand-anti-vaccine-mandate-protests-police-and-photographer-attacked">extreme heat at just 2C heating, say scientists.</a>*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#10_November_2021(China_uyghurs_total_repression)
title: Total repression
uri: Total-repression
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#10_November_2021(China_uyghurs_total_repression)
content:
 
<p>
How China imposes 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/oct/19/china-predictive-policing-surveillance-uyghurs-report">total repression on everything that Uyghurs do.</a>


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#10_November_2021(Drug_pricing_manchin_sinema)
title: Medicare negotiate bulk purchases of some drugs.
uri: Medicare-negotiate-bulk-purchases-of-some-drugs
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#10_November_2021(Drug_pricing_manchin_sinema)
content:
 
<p>
Manchin and Sinema have 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/03/progressives-cautiously-welcome-drug-pricing-agreement-something-build">agreed to let Medicare negotiate bulk purchases of some drugs.</a>
<p>
This will be a signal victory if it gets passed into law, even though
it is limited to only some drugs and some patients (those covered by
Medicare), because it will break through the barrier that has held for
50 years.  Extending the exception policy should be easier than
creating it.
<p>
In more civilized countries, the national medical system provides all
prescription drugs to patients.  Italy's system, for example,
distributes insulin gratis to all diabetics that need it.

 


title: Survivors of massacres ask for apology
uri: 2021-11-12-Survivors-of-massacres-ask-for-apology
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#11_November_2021_(Survivors_of_massacres_ask_for_apology)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#11_November_2021_(Survivors_of_massacres_ask_for_apology)

content:
 
<p>
*Survivors of 1965 Indonesia massacres <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/oct/24/survivors-of-1965-indonesia-massacres-urge-uk-to-apologise">urge UK to apologize</a>.*
  And the US, of course.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#11_November_2021_(NFT-boosters)
title: NFT-boosters
uri: NFT-boosters
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#11_November_2021_(NFT-boosters)
content:
 
<p>
NFT-boosters perversely acknowledge that the buyers are buying only the
opportunity to boast how much they spent.  It is <a href="https://www.vice.com/en/article/5dgzed/what-the-hell-is-right-clicker-mentality">conspicuous consumption
publicly stripped of any possible other good</a>.

<p>
Therapists and consultants say that they help their clients by
charging them a lot of money, because that influences them to respect
the service more.  By saying this, they are not being irrational
themselves, but they are showing disrespect for their clients by
presuming they judge foolishly.

<p>
The NFT boosters that sneer at "right-clicker mentality" take a further
step into absurdity: they claim that the people they manipulate are
right to think in that perverse way.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#11_November_2021_(FTC_power_on_Facebook)
title: FTC power on Facebook
uri: FTC-power-on-Facebook
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#11_November_2021_(FTC_power_on_Facebook)
content:
 
<p>
The FTC has power <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/08/ftc-created-facebook-it-has-power-take-it-down">to restrict some of the bad things Facebook does to
zuckers</a>.

<p>
I don't think that forbidding Facebook to collect "data on a user's
race, sexual orientation, gender, or national origin" would make
Facebook safe for its useds.  Facebook can deduce those things from
what a person likes, or chooses to look at &mdash; not with 100% accuracy,
but accurately enough to target people profitably.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#11_November_2021_(Censorship_on_education)
title: Censorship on education
uri: Censorship-on-education
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#11_November_2021_(Censorship_on_education)
content:
 
<p>
PEN reports on Republicans' laws (and bills) <a href="https://pen.org/report/educational-gag-orders/">to impose censorship on
education</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#11_November_2021_(Omitted_emissions)
title: Omitted emissions
uri: Omitted-emissions
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#11_November_2021_(Omitted_emissions)
content:
 
<p>
Governments' estimates of their greenhouse gas emissions omit 8 to 13
billions of tons per year.  That is <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/08/must-read-analysis-reveals-massive-global-gap-between-declared-and-actual-emissions">a substantial fraction of the total
anthropic emissions</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#11_November_2021_(Extreme_pessimism)
title: Extreme pessimism
uri: Extreme-pessimism
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#11_November_2021_(Extreme_pessimism)
content:
 
<p>
Extreme pessimism about our future <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/07/bleak-pessimism-about-the-planets-future-is-as-lethal-as-blithe-optimism">is as harmful as blind optimism</a>.

<p>
The article errs in equating Roger Hallam's warning with fatalistic
pessimism.  Extinction Rebellion is the opposite of fatalism.  His
warning of what the future will be like if you don't try to change it
is a call to action, and it has inspired thousands &mdash; or perhaps
millions &mdash; into the struggle.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#11_November_2021_(Doing_more_than_anyone_else)
title: Doing more than anyone else
uri: Doing-more-than-anyone-else
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#11_November_2021_(Doing_more_than_anyone_else)
content:
 
<p>
*   Citizens are alarmed by the climate crisis, but most believe they are
   already doing more to preserve the planet than anyone else, including
   their government, and few are willing to make significant lifestyle
   changes, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/07/few-willing-to-change-lifestyle-climate-survey">an international survey has found</a>.*

<p>
The comparatively painless way for millions of people to change a harmful habit
is to get together and do it at the level of society as a whole.  To achieve
the same results by individual sacrifices is a big pain.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#11_November_2021_(Holdings_in_fossil_fuel_stocks)
title: Holdings in fossil fuel stocks
uri: Holdings-in-fossil-fuel-stocks
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#11_November_2021_(Holdings_in_fossil_fuel_stocks)
content:
 
<p>
28 of the 100 US senators (and their families) <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/05/one-four-us-senators-still-hold-fossil-fuel-investments-even-world-burns">own substantial holdings
of fossil fuel stocks</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#11_November_2021_(Not_making_the_same_mistake)
title: Not making the same mistake
uri: Not-making-the-same-mistake
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#11_November_2021_(Not_making_the_same_mistake)
content:
 
<p>
(<a href="https://www.theonion.com/virginians-who-watched-schools-taken-over-by-sharia-law-1847992412">satire</a>) *Virginians Who Watched Schools Taken Over By Sharia Law
Refuse To Make Same Mistake With Critical Race Theory.*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#11_November_2021_(Philanthropists)
title: Philanthropists
uri: Philanthropists
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#11_November_2021_(Philanthropists)
content:
 
<p>
A few rich "philanthropists" pledged to spend a around $25 million
a year to help Kalamazoo (however they see fit), <a href="https://time.com/6110450/kalamazoo-foundation-for-excellence/">in exchange for
cancellation of a planned tax increase</a>.

<p>
Now the city is addicted to their continuing "donations"
and has sold control of its future.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#11_November_2021_(Paid_birth_leave)
title: Paid birth leave
uri: Paid-birth-leave
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#11_November_2021_(Paid_birth_leave)
content:
 
<p>
Although Democrats have kept the paid birth leave benefit alive,
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/04/democrats-paid-family-leave-plan-keeps-getting-worse-policy-expert-warns">the lowest-paid workers will now be specially excluded</a>.


 


title: Stamping out Covid-19 completely
uri: Stamping-out-Covid-19-completely
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#11_November_2021_(Stamping_out_Covid-19_completely)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#11_November_2021_(Stamping_out_Covid-19_completely)

content:
 
<p>
Taiwan shows that <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/08/how-long-can-you-maintain-it-cost-of-taiwans-pursuit-of-covid-zero-starts-to-show">a free country can stamp out Covid-19 completely</a>.

<p>
If the world maintained this discipline, it could get rid of Covid-19 forever,
and reopen in safety.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#11_November_2021_(Outsourcing_racial_profiling)
title: Outsourcing racial profiling
uri: Outsourcing-racial-profiling
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#11_November_2021_(Outsourcing_racial_profiling)
content:
 
<p>
The Los Angeles Thug Department <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/07/lapd-predictive-policing-surveillance-reform">is accused of outsourcing racial
profiling to algorithms</a>
   &mdash; for the second time.

<p>
I wish I knew to what extent the <a href="/glossary.html#thug">thug</a> department controls the
algorithms in use, but I can't tell that from the article.
Can anyone find out?


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#11_November_2021_(Corrupt_regimes)
title: Corrupt regimes
uri: Corrupt-regimes
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#11_November_2021_(Corrupt_regimes)
content:
 
<p>
*I have lived under corrupt regimes &mdash; <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/08/corrupt-regimes-cynicism-britain-voters-political-class">the cynicism stalking Britain
is all too familiar</a>.*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#11_November_2021_(Deep_in_seawater)
title: Deep in seawater
uri: Deep-in-seawater
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#11_November_2021_(Deep_in_seawater)
content:
 
<p>
*Tuvalu minister to address Cop26 <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/08/tuvalu-minister-to-address-cop26-knee-deep-in-seawater-to-highlight-climate-crisis">knee deep in seawater to highlight
climate crisis</a>.*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#11_November_2021_(Videos_of_torture)
title: Videos of torture
uri: Videos-of-torture
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#11_November_2021_(Videos_of_torture)
content:
 
<p>
Sergei Savelyev fled to France and <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/08/i-was-always-scared-inmate-who-exposed-systemic-russian-prisoner-abuse">revealed copies of torture videos
made in the Saratov prison hospital</a>.

<p>
These videos were not from always-on "security" cameras.  They
specifically recorded acts of torture of prisoners for the delectation
of prison officers.

<p>
Russia is trying to imprison Savelyev for this leak.  That response is
disgusting and shameful.  What's even more shameful for me as an
American is that the US government is doing the same thing to Julian
Assange for a similar "crime".


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021(Chile_president_impeached_family)
title: Using his power to benefit his family
uri: Using-his-power-to-benefit-his-family
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021(Chile_president_impeached_family)
content:
 
<p>
President Piñera of Chile has been 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/09/chilean-president-sebastian-pinera-impeached">impeached over using his power to benefit his family financiailly. </a>
<p>
The facts were disclosed by 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/oct/13/chile-sebastian-pinera-impeachment-proceedings-pandora-papers">the Pandora Papers.</a>

<p>
I am not surprised he would do this. He generally does what's good for the rich, and that includes his family.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021(Boris_dignity_cabinet_probe)
title: Tests the limits of shamelessness
uri: Tests-the-limits-of-shamelessness
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021(Boris_dignity_cabinet_probe)
content:
 
<p>
*[Bogus Johnson] tests the limits of shamelessness, 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/09/tory-mps-boris-johnson-prime-minister-party">using the dignity of his cabinet as a probe.</a>*

 


title: Pegasus spyware
uri: 2021-11-12-Pegasus-spyware
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021(Mexico_pegasus_spyware_journalist)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021(Mexico_pegasus_spyware_journalist)

content:
 
<p>
Mexico has accused an unidentified "businessman" 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/09/mexico-arrest-businessman-nso-israeli-company-spyware">for using the Pegasus spyware to snoop on a journalist.</a>


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021(Belarus_asylum_jan6_rioter)
title: has fled to Belarus for safety
uri: has-fled-to-Belarus-for-safety
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021(Belarus_asylum_jan6_rioter)
content:
 
<p>
A man that punched Capitol policemen 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/09/capitol-rioter-assaulting-officers-6-january-seeks-asylum-belarus">during the Jan 6 insurrection has fled to Belarus for safety</a>
<p>
If we can only convince Republican leaders to go to Belarus, the US might
be safer.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021(Aoc_warns_bbb_emission_lock)
title: We May Have Just Locked in US Emissions.
uri: We-May-Have-Just-Locked-in-US-Emissions
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021(Aoc_warns_bbb_emission_lock)
content:
 
<p>
*If Build Back Better Fails, AOC Warns, 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/08/if-build-back-better-fails-aoc-warns-we-may-have-just-locked-us-emissions">"We May Have Just Locked in US Emissions."</a>*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021(Capitalism_end_cory_doctorow)
title: Capitalism could end nonviolently
uri: Capitalism-could-end-nonviolently
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021(Capitalism_end_cory_doctorow)
content:
 
<p>
Proposing a way that 
<a href="https://locusmag.com/2021/11/cory-doctorow-the-unimaginable/">capitialism could end nonviolently.</a>
<p>
To eliminate capitalism entirely would mean that excellent specialty
products and services would disappear -- including good restaurants
and delicious food products. I love them, and I want them to be there
to buy! What's harmful is when busineses are big enough to shape
society for their ends. Can we get rid of big-time capitalismm and
keep the capitalism for things that are not necessitities of life?


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021(Edelman_agency_fossil_fuel)
title: To drop fossil fuel companies as clients.
uri: To-drop-fossil-fuel-companies-as-clients
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021(Edelman_agency_fossil_fuel)
content:
 
<p>
Calling on the Edelman advertising agency to 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/08/worlds-biggest-pr-firm-urged-stop-enabling-ecosystem-destruction">drop fossil fuel companies as clients.</a>


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021(Gop_democracy_overthrow_2024)
title: Republicans threaten to overthrow
uri: Republicans-threaten-to-overthrow
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021(Gop_democracy_overthrow_2024)
content:
 
<p>
Major progressive groups warn that Republicans threaten to 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/08/our-democracy-faces-existential-threat-progressives-warn-gop-attack-2022-elections">overthrow US democracy in 2022 or 2024</a>


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021(Climate_defense_in_photos)
title: Climate defense
uri: 2021-11-12-Climate-defense
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021(Climate_defense_in_photos)
content:
 
<p>
Climate defense rallies of 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/gallery/2021/nov/08/stop-killing-weekend-cop26-actiism-world-in-pictures">last weekend, in photos.</a>


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021(Biden_popular_corp_greed)
title: Take On Corporate Greed.
uri: Take-On-Corporate-Greed
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021(Biden_popular_corp_greed)
content:
 
<p>
*Progressives to Biden: 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/04/progressives-biden-if-you-want-be-popular-take-corporate-greed">If You Want to Be Popular, Take On Corporate Greed.</a>*


 


title: Urgent : NDAA and Build Back Better
uri: Urgent-NDAA-and-Build-Back-Better
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021_(Urgent_:_NDAA_and_Build_Back_Better)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021_(Urgent_:_NDAA_and_Build_Back_Better)

content:
 
<p>
US citizens: <a href="https://act.winwithoutwar.org/act/senators-focus-build-back-better-focus-cutting-pentagon-budget">call on the Senate</a> not to vote on the NDAA until we have
passed Build Back Better.


 


title: Urgent: Polluters Pay Climate Fund
uri: Urgent-Polluters-Pay-Climate-Fund
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021_(Urgent:_Polluters_Pay_Climate_Fund)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021_(Urgent:_Polluters_Pay_Climate_Fund)

content:
 
<p>
US citizens: <a href="https://act.pfaw.org/sign/congress-polluters-pay-climate-fund-act-2021/">call on Congress</a> to Pass the Polluters Pay Climate Fund
Act.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021_(Urgent:_forest_biomass_industry)
title: Urgent: forest biomass industry
uri: Urgent-forest-biomass-industry
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021_(Urgent:_forest_biomass_industry)
content:
 
<p>
US citizens: <a href="https://act.stand.earth/page/35202/petition/1">call on the Canadian government</a> stop subsidizing the
forest biomass industry &mdash;
  in other words, paying to cut down forests and burn them.


 


title: Urgent: remove insurrectionists from Congress
uri: Urgent-remove-insurrectionists-from-Congress
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021_(Urgent:_remove_insurrectionists_from_Congress)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021_(Urgent:_remove_insurrectionists_from_Congress)

content:
 
<p>
US citizens: <a href="https://act.democracyforamerica.com/sign/remove_insurrectionists/">call on Congress</a> to remove insurrectionists, as the
constitution requires.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021_(The_cow_in_the_room)
title: The cow in the room
uri: The-cow-in-the-room
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021_(The_cow_in_the_room)
content:
 
<p>
*The cow in the room: why is no one talking <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/09/the-cow-in-the-room-why-is-no-one-talking-about-farming-at-cop26-aoe">about farming at Cop26</a>?*

<p>
It is hard for me to comment on issues relating to sustainable
farming, because I don't have a basis to judge whether proposed
methods are have a plausible chance of being more sustainable.  I know
about many of the worst problems &mdash; pesticides, fertilizer, water
demand, and farming crops to feed animals &mdash; but when people propose
solutions, I can't tell the rational solutions ones from the newage.

<p>
One piece of foolishness can be seen in the article when people
criticize the menus because "60% of dishes include meat or dairy."  I
am not impressed by people who equate buttered toast with a steak.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021_(Net_zero_pledges)
title: Net zero pledges
uri: Net-zero-pledges
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021_(Net_zero_pledges)
content:
 
<p>
The Yes Men expose the worthlessness of companies' "net zero" pledges:
<a href="https://news.theyesmen.org/p/fake-fake-exposes-real-fakes">net zero credibility</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021_(Murder_by_soldier)
title: Murder by soldier
uri: Murder-by-soldier
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021_(Murder_by_soldier)
content:
 
<p>
A Kenyan woman was murdered in 2012.  Now there is an indication
that <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2021/nov/09/she-did-not-deserve-to-die-like-this-family-of-agnes-wanjiru-seek-justice">the murderer was a British soldier sent there for training</a>.

<p>
I am disappointed that the article raises the question of whether
she was a part-time prostitute &mdash; as if that were pertinent.

<p>
Condemnation of prostitutes is an example of the conservative
idea of moral values, 
  which are based on obedience to superiors, loyalty to the group,
and cleanness, and allow those to override fairness and justice.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021_(No_Trump_card_needed)
title: No Trump card needed
uri: No-Trump-card-needed
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021_(No_Trump_card_needed)
content:
 
<p>
*Youngkin played the race card in Virginia, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/09/youngkin-played-the-race-card-in-virginia-no-trump-card-needed">no Trump card needed</a>.*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021_(Interview_with_Peter_Márki-Zay)
title: Interview with Peter Márki-Zay
uri: Interview-with-Peter-Márki-Zay
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021_(Interview_with_Peter_Márki-Zay)
content:
 
<p>
A discussion of politics in Hungary and an interview with Peter Márki-Zay,
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/09/europe-must-seize-this-chance-to-help-restore-democracy-in-hungary">the candidate of the united opposition</a>.

<p>
I do not admire anyone for being conservative, nor for being Catholic
(though that's ok if <a href="/glossary.html#perse">perse</a> is not also conservative).  I disapprove
strongly of having seven children, <a href="https://stallman.org/articles/children.html">which is harmful to civilization's
future</a>;
 people should use birth control to avoid overpopulating.

<p>
However, if Márki-Zay brings Hungary back to democracy, that will outweigh
my disapproval of the specifics.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021_(Accidental_nuclear_war)
title: Accidental nuclear war
uri: 2021-11-13-Accidental-nuclear-war
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021_(Accidental_nuclear_war)
content:
 
<p>
Daniel Ellsberg and Norman Solomon: ICBMs are especially likely to
cause an accidental nuclear war &mdash; the US <a href="https://www.thenation.com/article/world/eliminate-nuclear-missiles/">would be safer after
eliminating its land-based ICBMs</a>
   even if Russia does not eliminate its own.
The US would still have bombers and submarine-launched missiles.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021_(Fire_weather)
title: Fire weather
uri: Fire-weather
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021_(Fire_weather)
content:
 
<p>
In the 1970s, the region of Sacramento, California, had an average of
7 days of "fire weather" per year.  Last year it was 22; <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/09/northern-california-wildfires-fire-weather-climate">this year it
was 25</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021_(Surveillance)
title: Surveillance
uri: 2021-11-13-Surveillance
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021_(Surveillance)
content:
 
<p>
Distributed Denial of Secrets posted a large collection of photos that
two US surveillance departments leaked through total carelessness.
They show us <a href="https://www.wired.com/story/ddosecrets-police-helicopter-data-leak/">how invasive state surveillance has become in "free"
countries</a>.

<p>
Trying to restrict the use of this surveillance data will tend to be
ineffective.  After all, there is already a law against lying in court
testimony, but that doesn't make <a href="/glossary.html#thug">thugs</a> stop doing it.
  The US has a history of persecuting people by calling them "terrorists",
   so limiting the use of the surveillance to "fighting terrorism"
won't protect us.

<p>
That is why I advocate prohibiting the installation or operation <a href="https://gnu.org/philosophy/surveillance-vs-democracy.html">of
dangerous surveillance systems that surveil people in general</a>.


 


title: On course for disastrous heating
uri: On-course-for-disastrous-heating
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021_(On_course_for_disastrous_heating)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021_(On_course_for_disastrous_heating)

content:
 
<p>
*Cop26 sets course <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/09/cop26-sets-course-for-disastrous-heating-of-more-than-24c-says-key-report">for disastrous heating of more than 2.4C</a>, says key report.*

<p>
*There’s a nearly 1C difference <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/09/cop26-false-hope-climate-analysis-targets">between
countries’ 2030 commitments and their 2050 targets</a>.*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021_(Dissected_publicly)
title: Dissected publicly
uri: Dissected-publicly
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021_(Dissected_publicly)
content:
 
<p>
Is it horrifying for a dead body to be dissected publicly?
It must be gruesome, but if that happens to the corpse of someone 
you knew, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/09/widow-horrified-body-donated-to-science-dissected-publicly">is it a reason to take offense</a>?

<p>
I don't see that it is.  The dissection can't harm the person who died,
or per memory.

<p>
If my corpse is someday publicly dissected, I think that will not
be a reason for to take offense on my behalf.  Instead, please support
what I have done with my life &mdash; the Free Software Movement.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021_(Extreme_rainfall)
title: Extreme rainfall
uri: Extreme-rainfall
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_November_2021_(Extreme_rainfall)
content:
 
<p>
China <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/09/intense-rainfall-extreme-weather-northern-china">has suffered big damage from extreme rainfall</a>.
  Will this convince China's
rulers to stop making it worse by building coal-burning generators?



 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021(Reich_inflation_prices)
title: Too little competition to hold prices down.
uri: Too-little-competition-to-hold-prices-down
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021(Reich_inflation_prices)
content:
 
<p>
One cause of inflation in the US today is that there is 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/11/us-inflation-market-power-america-antitrust-robert-reich">too little competition to hold prices down.</a>
<p>
We need to break up the enormous companies that four decades of
unrestrained merger have produced.  

<a href="/articles/progressive-tax-on-business-gross-income.html">I suggest a way to do this via
taxes.</a>

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021(Ethiopia_suspicion_tigrayan)
title: Ethiopia is arresting thousands of people
uri: Ethiopia-is-arresting-thousands-of-people
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021(Ethiopia_suspicion_tigrayan)
content:
 
<p>
Ethiopia is arresting thousands of people of Tigrayan origin, even
foreign visitors, on suspicion that they will 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/11/foreign-citizens-caught-up-crackdown-tigrayans-ethiopia">support advancing Tigrayan armies.</a>


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021(Belarus_eu_sanctioned)
title: Belarus threatens to cut gas deliveries
uri: Belarus-threatens-to-cut-gas-deliveries
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021(Belarus_eu_sanctioned)
content:
 
<p>
*Belarus threatens to cut gas deliveries to EU if sanctioned over
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/11/belarus-threatens-to-cut-gas-deliveries-to-eu-if-sanctioned-over-border-crisis">border crisis.</a>*
<p>
As long as the EU is dependent on gas from Russia and Belarus, they have the
advantage all the time.  This is an important secondary reason for the EU
to build renewable generation capacity at double time.  Fortunately
that's exactly what the EU needs to do anyway.



 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021(Obama_cop26_climate_defense)
title: Publiciy pressing for more climate defense
uri: Publiciy-pressing-for-more-climate-defense
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021(Obama_cop26_climate_defense)
content:
 
<p>
Obama hardly tried to curb global heating 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/10/barack-obama-climate-crisis-cop26-speech">when he was president, yet now he is publiciy pressing for more climate defense</a>
<p>
What should we say about this incongruous situation
<p>
If our goal is to encourage climate defense, we should criticize his
past failure as president, while endorsing his valid points (those
which are valid) of today.
<p>
To treat his past failure as more important than the future, as the
article does, is not constructive.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021(Oil_wells_badly_sick)
title: Campaigning to close the oil wells
uri: Campaigning-to-close-the-oil-wells
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021(Oil_wells_badly_sick)
content:
 
<p>
Campaigning to close the oil wells that in 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/society/2021/nov/10/nalleli-cobo-the-young-activist-who-led-her-la-neighbourhood-against-big-oil">Los Angeles county that are making local residents badly sick.</a>


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021(Cop26_net_zero_blame)
title: Hollow promise of "net zero" is to blame
uri: Hollow-promise-of-net-zero-is-to-blame
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021(Cop26_net_zero_blame)
content:
 
<p>
Yanis Varoufakis: *
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/10/cop26-doomed-net-zero">Cop26 is doomed, and the hollow promise of "net zero" is to blame.</a>*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021(Tuvalu_retain_status_country)
title: Tuvalu is looking for a way
uri: Tuvalu-is-looking-for-a-way
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021(Tuvalu_retain_status_country)
content:
 
<p>
Tuvalu is looking for a way to retain its status as a country,
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/11/tuvalu-seeks-to-retain-statehood-if-it-sinks-completely-as-sea-levels-rise">and its maritime zones of exclusive commerce, if its land
is inundated.</a>

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021(Brazil_bolsonaro_democracy)
title: Companies Helped Suppress Democracy.
uri: Companies-Helped-Suppress-Democracy
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021(Brazil_bolsonaro_democracy)
content:
 
<p>
*During Brazil's Dictatorship, 
<a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/11/11/brazil-corporations-democracy-bolsonaro-lula/"> Companies Helped Suppress Democracy.</a>*
<p>
Famous US and European companies conspired to crush union organizers
by asking the national thugs to arrest them and torture them.
<p>
There is a danger that they will prop up Bolsonaro so they can do it
again.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021(Canada_rent_indigenous_groups)
title: Now it will have to pay them billions
uri: Now-it-will-have-to-pay-them-billions
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021(Canada_rent_indigenous_groups)
content:
 
<p>
Canada agreed to pay rent to indigenous groups for mining and logging
on land that they ceded, but only paid them a pittance.  
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/11/first-nations-ontario-cback-rent-court-ruling">Now it will
have to pay them billions.</a>
<p>
This is fair, and I hope the indigenous peoples manage it so as to
make a lasting improvement in their lives.
<p>
However, it ight have the ironic effect of convincing them to lobby
for mining and logging. ;-{.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021(Home_renters_catalonia)
title: Organizing to fight evictions.
uri: Organizing-to-fight-evictions
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021(Home_renters_catalonia)
content:
 
<p>
Home renters in Catalonia are 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/commentisfree/2021/nov/11/health-education-spain-housing-renters-catalonia">organizing to fight evictions.</a>


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021(Democrats_gi_bill_ww2)
title: Congress propose to compensate the black soldiers in World War II
uri: Congress-propose-to-compensate-the-black-soldiers-in-World-War-II
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021(Democrats_gi_bill_ww2)
content:
 
<p>
Democrats in Congress propose to compensate the black soldiers in
World War II (actually their descendents) for 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/11/democrats-gi-bill-black-service-members">dening them the education benenfits offered to white soldiers.</a>


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Urgent:_The_billionaire
title: Urgent: The billionaire's tax
uri: Urgent-The-billionaire-s-tax
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Urgent:_The_billionaire
content:
 
<p>

  US citizens: call on Congress to <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/petitions/add-your-name-make-billionaires-pay-their-fair-share-every-year-not-just-when-they-feel-like-it">pass the billionaires' tax</a>

<p>The Capitol Switchboard number is 202-224-3121.</p>
<p>  If you call, please spread the word!.</p>

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Patent_Obstacles)
title: Patent Obstacles
uri: Patent-Obstacles
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Patent_Obstacles)
content:
 
<p>

The International Commission of Jurists concludes that two UN treaties
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/09/global-jurists-say-international-law-requires-rich-nations-stop-blocking-patent">require countries to cooperate with removing the patent obstacles</a>
to making vaccines.
<p>
These treaties have been ratified by around 170 countries.  The US is
not one of them, but that's not a problem since the US is already in
favor of doing this.
<p>
The NIH is <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/09/moderna-slammed-cheating-us-taxpayers-covid-19-vaccine-patent-dispute">disputing with Moderna</a> the rights to the patents that
Moderna has applied for. If it wins the inclusion of its scientists among the inventors,
it will get the power to license manufacture of vaccines.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Covid-19_death_rate)
title: Covid-19 death rate
uri: Covid-19-death-rate
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Covid-19_death_rate)
content:
 
<p>

The death rate from Covid-19 is <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/09/partisan-gap-covid-deaths-growing-thanks-right-wing-vaccine-disinformation">3 times as much</a> in US counties that
voted 60% for the wrecker as in counties that voted 60% for Biden.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Empty_promises)
title: Empty promises
uri: Empty-promises
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Empty_promises)
content:
 
<p>

*More Than Halfway Through COP26, World Leaders <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/09/more-halfway-through-cop26-world-leaders-accused-delivering-empty-promises-sinking">Accused of Delivering
Empty Promises</a> on a Sinking Ship.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(System_to_determine_a_drunk)
title: System to determine a drunk
uri: System-to-determine-a-drunk
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(System_to_determine_a_drunk)
content:
 
<p>

The US wants to require all new cars to have a <a href="https://gizmodo.com/infrastructure-bills-drunk-driving-tech-mandate-leaves-1848026588">system to determine whether
the driver is drunk</a>.
This threatens to collect more data about all drivers.
<p>
I will not object to that system if the only information it reports,
ever, is either "Driver is drunk" or "driver may not be drunk."
<p>
That data should not be stored anywhere, only used immediately to decide
whether the car can start.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Permian_Basic_Fracking)
title: Permian Basic Fracking
uri: Permian-Basic-Fracking
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Permian_Basic_Fracking)
content:
 
<p>

*"This Must Not Happen": If Unhalted, Permian Basin Fracking Will <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/09/must-not-happen-if-unhalted-permian-basin-fracking-will-unleash-40-billion-tons-co2">Unleash 40 Billion Tons of CO2 by 2050</a>.*
<p>
This would be "game over for the climate."

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Big_banks_lobbying_secretly)
title: Big banks lobbying secretly
uri: Big-banks-lobbying-secretly
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Big_banks_lobbying_secretly)
content:
 
<p>

HSBC, working with other big banks, has been lobbying secretly to
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/09/critics-say-behind-scene-efforts-hbsc-prove-big-bank-climate-pledges-cannot-be">reduce the greenhouse reduction commitment</a> that banks are negotiating.
<p>
They all have pledged to reach net-zero by 2050, but that is only lip service.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Temperature_rise_of_1.8°C)
title: Temperature rise of 1.8°C
uri: Temperature-rise-of-1-8-C
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Temperature_rise_of_1.8°C)
content:
 
<p>

*If all the announced net-zero commitments are implemented, the global
   temperature would <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/09/cop26-report-reveals-massive-credibility-gap-between-climate-commitments-and-15degc">rise 1.8°C by 2100</a>, but this is only IF these targets are fully implemented, and it's a big IF.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_((satire)_Metaverse_of_Napkins)
title: (satire) Metaverse of Napkins
uri: (satire)-Metaverse-of-Napkins
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_((satire)_Metaverse_of_Napkins)
content:
 
<p>

(satire) *Bounty CEO <a href="https://www.theonion.com/bounty-ceo-rebrands-business-as-metaverse-of-napkins-1848017523">Rebrands Business As Metaverse Of Napkins</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Flint_water_crisis)
title: Flint water crisis
uri: 2021-11-14-Flint-water-crisis
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Flint_water_crisis)
content:
 
<p>

*Flint water crisis victims to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/10/weve-made-history-flint-water-crisis-victims-to-receive-626m-settlement">receive $626m settlement</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(For_Democrats_to_win)
title: For Democrats to win
uri: For-Democrats-to-win
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(For_Democrats_to_win)
content:
 
<p>

For Democrats to win next year, they need to <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/09/neoliberal-democrats-are-killing-partys-chances-working-class-voters">win back voters that were hit
by increasing poverty</a>.
<p>
This is one reason why passing the infrastructure bill was important.
However, passing the aid bill (Build Back Better) is also important.
The progressives who insisted on the deal to pass both bills
were trying to do a larger part of what the Democratic Party needs.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Alternative_to_algorithms)
title: Alternative to algorithms
uri: Alternative-to-algorithms
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Alternative_to_algorithms)
content:
 
<p>

A bill in Congress would require web sites to give users an <a href="https://www.axios.com/algorithm-bill-house-bipartisan-5293581e-430f-4ea1-8477-bd9adb63519c.html">alternative
to letting opaque algorithms choose what they see</a>.
Specifically, the sites would have to warn users about basing feeds
or search results on any personal data other than what they submitted
specifically to state preferences.
<p>
I agree that this would be a step forward &mdash; but, when it comes to
searching, I want to make sure the site does not know who I am.

 


title: Catastrophic climate oscillations
uri: Catastrophic-climate-oscillations
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Catastrophic_climate_oscillations)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Catastrophic_climate_oscillations)

content:
 
<p>

Paleontoligical study of previous mass extinctions suggests that our
rapid CO2 production could rush past a global tipping point, and
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/10/earth-has-seen-five-mass-extinction-events-what-can-we-learn-from-them">unleash catastrophic global climate oscillations in this century</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Projected_slogans)
title: Projected slogans
uri: Projected-slogans
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Projected_slogans)
content:
 
<p>

Activists outside of Cop26 <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/10/projection-fight-breaks-out-cop26-venue-glasgow">projected serious slogans</a> such as "leave
methane in the ground" and "end fracking now" on the side of the
building where discussions are happening.
A company hired by the event to project on the sides of buildings
decided to drown that out by covering the protest with other slogans.
The result was to amplify the protest.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Thai_protesters)
title: Thai protesters
uri: Thai-protesters
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Thai_protesters)
content:
 
<p>

Thai protesters called for reducing the power of the monarch.  Now the
constitutional court ruled that such protesters <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/10/thai-court-rules-calls-for-curbs-on-monarchy-are-abuse-of-freedoms">count as a rebellion</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Sustainable_salmon_fishing)
title: Sustainable salmon fishing
uri: Sustainable-salmon-fishing
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Sustainable_salmon_fishing)
content:
 
<p>

Here's an example where indigenous people in modern British Columbia
carefully <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/10/canada-indigenous-community-harvested-salmon-sustainably-1000-years-settlers-wrecked-system">made their salmon fishing sustainable</a> over a period of 1,000
years.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Recall_election)
title: Recall election
uri: Recall-election
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Recall_election)
content:
 
<p>

*San Francisco’s progressive district attorney <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/10/chesa-boudin-san-francisco-progressive-district-attorney-recall-election">faces recall election</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Inflation)
title: Inflation
uri: 2021-11-14-Inflation
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Inflation)
content:
 
<p>

Inflation <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/11/10/inflation-economy-debt-milk-prices/">tends to be good for poor people</a>, especially those with
debts and those who have to work for a living.
It reduces the value of the debts, and it goes with shortage of
labor, which means you can get a raise.
<p>
Thus, the media alarm about inflation may be calculated to serve the
interests of the creditor class.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Three_ways_to_cut_$100_billion)
title: Three ways to cut $100 billion
uri: Three-ways-to-cut-100-billion
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Three_ways_to_cut_$100_billion)
content:
 
<p>

The Congressional Budget Office <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/09/pentagon-budget-should-be-cut-least-1-trillion-war-profiteers-wont-go-quietly">proposes three ways</a> to cut $100
billion per year from the military budget.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(End_to_use_of_automobiles)
title: End to use of automobiles
uri: End-to-use-of-automobiles
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(End_to_use_of_automobiles)
content:
 
<p>

Instead of replacing fossil-fuel automobiles with electric
automobiles, it might be better to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/10/what-if-we-just-gave-up-cars-activists-press-cop26-leaders-to-dream-big">aim to put an end to use of
automobiles</a>.
<p>
I don't think other transport will entirely replace automobiles.
<p>
I wish I could use a bicycle, but (1) I don't know how to ride one and
(2) I'd be scared to ride one in a place where cars go.  Can we come up
with a way to make bicycles safer, and avoid the need for honed skill
to use one?

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(An_app_to_park)
title: An app to park
uri: An-app-to-park
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(An_app_to_park)
content:
 
<p>

A building in LA, with a supermarket in it, demands customers <a href="https://www.latimes.com/business/story/2021-11-09/column-trader-joes-parking-app">load a
particular app to pay for parking</a> in the parking lot, and accept
pervasive surveillance.
They also have the option of entering their license plate numbers in a kiosk.
That is an injustice, too.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Frontline_workers)
title: Frontline workers
uri: Frontline-workers
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Frontline_workers)
content:
 
<p>

*Frontline workers cannot expect to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/10/mandatory-covid-jabs-nhs-staff-frontline-workers-unvaccinated-pandemic">remain unvaccinated in a pandemic</a>
and to keep working with vulnerable people.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Texas_rule_against_masks)
title: Texas rule against masks
uri: Texas-rule-against-masks
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Texas_rule_against_masks)
content:
 
<p>

The first-level federal court <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/11/federal-judge-overturns-greg-abbotts-ban-mask-mandates-texas-schools">overturned the Texas rule</a> that school districts
cannot require masks.
<p>
Republican officials will appeal this ruling, so I expect it will be months
before there is a final result.

 


title: (satire) Fish even more under water
uri: (satire)-Fish-even-more-under-water
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_((satire)_Fish_even_more_under_water)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_((satire)_Fish_even_more_under_water)

content:
 
<p>

(satire) *Climate Scientists Warn That Fish Will Be <a href="https://www.theonion.com/climate-scientists-warn-that-fish-will-be-under-even-mo-1848027588">Under Even More
Water</a> By 2065.*

 


title: Polite request for climate action
uri: Polite-request-for-climate-action
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Polite_request_for_climate_action)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Polite_request_for_climate_action)

content:
 
<p>

*Campaigners Rip New COP26 Draft as a <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/10/campaigners-rip-new-cop26-draft-polite-request-climate-action-amid-existential">"Polite Request" for Climate
Action</a> Amid Existential Crisis.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Non-nuclear_deal)
title: Non-nuclear deal
uri: Non-nuclear-deal
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Non-nuclear_deal)
content:
 
<p>

Iran's <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/11/iran-nuclear-deal-guarantees-ali-bagheri-kani">conditions for resuming the non-nuclear deal</a>:
The US must commit to remaining in the deal, and it must ease sanctions
in a way that has significant effect.  Also, European countries must not
allow US sanctions laws to block them from trading with Iran.
<p>
These demands seem acceptable to me.  It seems absurd for the US to have
the power to tell other countries whether they can trade with Iran or not.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Too_weak_to_stop_disaster)
title: Too weak to stop disaster
uri: Too-weak-to-stop-disaster
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Too_weak_to_stop_disaster)
content:
 
<p>

*Cop26 targets <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/11/cop26-targets-too-weak-to-stop-disaster-say-paris-agreement-architects">too weak to stop disaster</a>, say Paris agreement architects.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021(Algorithm_damaging_mental)
title: Algorithms is damaging employees' mental health
uri: Algorithms-is-damaging-employees-mental-health
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021(Algorithm_damaging_mental)
content:
 
<p>
* Monitoring of workers and setting performance targets through
algorithms is damaging [UK] 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2021/nov/11/algorithmic-monitoring-mental-health-uk-employees">employees' mental health and needs to
be controlled by new legislation.</a>*
<p>
I suppose it harms workers in the US, too, but the report is about the UK.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021(America_ucc)
title: How America Got (And Lost) Universal Child Care.
uri: How-America-Got-(And-Lost)-Universal-Child-Care
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021(America_ucc)
content:
 
<p>
How America Got (And Lost) 
<a href="https://invidio.us/tRtaRMDSPMc">Universal Child Care.</a>

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021(Iowa_covid19_deer_epidemic)
title: SARS-CoV-2 has spread to deer in Iowa
uri: SARS-CoV-2-has-spread-to-deer-in-Iowa
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021(Iowa_covid19_deer_epidemic)
content:
 
<p>
SARS-CoV-2 has spread to 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/11/us-covid-wildlife-virus">deer in Iowa and is causing an epidemic
among them.</a>
<p>
In principle, humans could catch it from deer. This could make it
hard to eradicate the disease, but humans will not have many
opportunities to catch it from deer. However, we don't know what other
kinds of animals may harbor it.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Urgent:_Free_Assange_Rally)
title: Urgent: Free Assange Rally
uri: Urgent-Free-Assange-Rally
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Urgent:_Free_Assange_Rally)
content:
 
<p>

<a href="https://masspeaceaction.org/event/rally-for-julian-assange-nov22/">Free Assange Rally</a> on Monday, November 22 at 4pm in Boston.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Southern_Madagascar_drought)
title: Southern Madagascar drought
uri: Southern-Madagascar-drought
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Southern_Madagascar_drought)
content:
 
<p>

The drought in southern Madagascar has made it <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/11/madagascar-climate-crisis-drought-no-harvest-only-hunger">impossible to grow food</a>.
People eat things with no food value just to fill their stomachs.
<p>
If this is indeed the result of <a href="/glossary.html#global heating">global heating</a>, it will get worse and
worse &mdash; just as it will in many other parts of the world, if we
don't stop the heating.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Chinese_agents)
title: Chinese agents
uri: Chinese-agents
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Chinese_agents)
content:
 
<p>

*Chinese agents operating abroad to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/11/chinese-agents-operating-abroad-to-get-uyghurs-deported-icc-told">get Uyghur [exiles] deported [to
 China]</a>, ICC told.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Glasgow_climate_defense_march)
title: Glasgow climate defense march
uri: Glasgow-climate-defense-march
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Glasgow_climate_defense_march)
content:
 
<p>

* Organizers of Glasgow [climate defense] march claim [<a href="/glossary.html#thug">thugs</a>] risked
"chaos" by <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/11/cop26-police-tactics-creating-atmosphere-of-fear-protesters-say">failing to adhere to pre-agreed arrangements</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Call_for_industrial_fishing_ban)
title: Call for industrial fishing ban
uri: Call-for-industrial-fishing-ban
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Call_for_industrial_fishing_ban)
content:
 
<p>

*Oceanographer Sylvia Earle <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/10/cop26-oceanographer-sylvia-earle-ban-industrial-fishing-ban-high-seas">calls for industrial fishing ban</a> on high
seas.* The article explains that this refers to international waters, which
would be 200 miles away from any land.  So this would not put an end
to most fishing.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Walmart_delivery_workers)
title: Walmart delivery workers
uri: Walmart-delivery-workers
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Walmart_delivery_workers)
content:
 
<p>

*Walmart Delivery Workers Say New Pay Model <a href="https://www.vice.com/en/article/n7nvzz/walmart-delivery-workers-say-new-pay-model-steals-their-tips">Steals Their Tips</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Nitrogenous_fertilizer)
title: Nitrogenous fertilizer
uri: Nitrogenous-fertilizer
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Nitrogenous_fertilizer)
content:
 
<p>

A substantial fraction of nitrogenous fertilizer is <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/10/beware-climate-stupid-agriculture-bill-gates-and-his-allies">converted into
NO2</a>, a powerful greenhouse gas.  Making it releases methane.  We need
to use much less fertilizer.
<p>
Another fraction of the fertilizer runs off into lakes and seas, where
it creates toxic blooms and dead zones.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Oil_leases)
title: Oil leases
uri: 2021-11-15-Oil-leases
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Oil_leases)
content:
 
<p>

Biden is about to hold an auction of <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/10/climate-coalition-demands-biden-halt-outrageous-offshore-drilling-auction-largest-us">oil leases for sea bottom in the Gulf of Mexico</a>.  Climate defenders urge him to cancel the auction.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Imitating_Hitler_as_mockery)
title: Imitating Hitler as mockery
uri: Imitating-Hitler-as-mockery
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Imitating_Hitler_as_mockery)
content:
 
<p>

We used to condemn Hitler and Nazis, but now that's considered
insufficient.  Imitating Hitler as mockery is now treated as a
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2021/nov/10/john-cleese-pulls-out-of-cambridge-union-event-over-woke-rules">violation of taboo</a>, reason for someone to be shunned.
<p>
This reminds me of the 1942 US propaganda movie, To Be Or Not To Be,
which features a fictional Polish Hitler-impersonator.  He is such a
capable impersonator that he can fool even Germans, which proves
useful for fighting them &mdash; in a comedy, at least.
<p>
Director Ernst Lubitsch was a Jew born in Germany, and he must have
thought of Hitler as the worst of enemies.  But he saw no wrong in
presenting a Hitler-impersonator, if that would help to defeat Hitler.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Organization_Memorial)
title: Organization Memorial
uri: Organization-Memorial
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Organization_Memorial)
content:
 
<p>

Putin is planning to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/11/russia-moves-to-shut-down-countrys-most-celebrated-civil-rights-group">shut down the organization Memorial</a>, which documents
repression of dissidents in the Soviet Union.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Carbon_capture_and_storage)
title: Carbon capture and storage
uri: 2021-11-15-Carbon-capture-and-storage
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Carbon_capture_and_storage)
content:
 
<p>

A carbon capture and storage project was supposed to capture and store
80% of the CO2 output of a large industrial facility, but <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2021/nov/12/australias-only-working-carbon-capture-and-storage-project-fails-to-meet-target">only handled 40%</a>. It was a failure.
<p>
The article criticizes the project for not capturing the CO2 produced
elsewhere by burning the gas prepared by this facility.  That is true,
but it's not a failure.  Obviously, the power plants that burn it
would need their own capture and storage systems.  We could build
those &mdash; but maybe electric power storage would be cheaper.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Jens_Galschiot_sculpture)
title: Jens Galschiot sculpture
uri: Jens-Galschiot-sculpture
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Jens_Galschiot_sculpture)
content:
 
<p>

Jens Galschiot made a sculpture to represent the massacre at Tien An
Men, and lent it to the University of Hong Kong.  That university is
now compelled to try to get rid of it.  Galschiot wants to go and
bring it home, but he is <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/12/danish-sculptor-tiananmen-hong-kong-legal-protection-jens-galschiot">afraid he will be jailed if he does</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Australia
title: Australia's prime minister
uri: Australia-s-prime-minister
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Australia
content:
 
<p>

Australia's planet-roaster prime minister, Morrison, is now <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2021/nov/12/cop-that-mate-australian-pm-denies-lying-as-he-battles-fallout-from-disastrous-glasgow-trip">getting
blasted</a> for all the lies.  He denies telling the lies, but that fails
to convince his critics.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Climate_in_Greece)
title: Climate in Greece
uri: Climate-in-Greece
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Climate_in_Greece)
content:
 
<p>

The climate in Greece has changed drastically; old weather patterns are
gone.  The big fires <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/12/the-whole-ecosystem-was-wiped-living-on-the-frontline-of-global-heating">destroyed the entire ecosystem</a> of northern Evia
(formerly Euboia).

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Repression_of_Balochistan)
title: Repression of Balochistan
uri: Repression-of-Balochistan
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Repression_of_Balochistan)
content:
 
<p>

Balochistan is a part of Pakistan inhabited largely by a minority
ethnic/linguistic group.  It has a separatist movement, and faces
repression from the Pakistani government.  The repression forces
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/12/women-lead-fight-against-extrajudicial-killing-pakistan-balochistan-protest-abductions">disappear people</a>, who show up many years later &mdash; perhaps alive, perhaps dead.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Reduction_of_wildfires)
title: Reduction of wildfires
uri: Reduction-of-wildfires
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Reduction_of_wildfires)
content:
 
<p>

Forest rangers in southern California want to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/12/southern-california-forest-officials-culling-trees-locals-furious">remove bushes and some
smaller trees</a> to reduce future wildfires.
Some local people demand to save every tree, but that can't be done
except by reversing <a href="/glossary.html#global heating">global heating</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Ambitious_goal)
title: Ambitious goal
uri: Ambitious-goal
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Ambitious_goal)
content:
 
<p>
(<a href="https://www.theonion.com/climate-summit-sets-ambitious-goal-to-phase-out-fossil-1848031846">satire</a>) *Climate Summit Sets Ambitious Goal To Phase Out Fossil Fuels
By Time Earth Runs Out Of Them.*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Retracting_of_paper)
title: Retracting of paper
uri: Retracting-of-paper
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Retracting_of_paper)
content:
 
<p>

Glasgow University published a paper which criticized Israeli
policies, then published criticism calling it "antisemitic."  A
petition signed by hundreds of scholars <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/education/2021/nov/10/glasgow-university-retreats-over-antisemitic-label-for-journal-article">convinced the university to
retract that criticism</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Urgent:_Build_Back_Better_bill)
title: Urgent: Build Back Better bill
uri: Urgent-Build-Back-Better-bill
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Urgent:_Build_Back_Better_bill)
content:
 
<p>
US citizens: <a href="https://act.winwithoutwar.org/act/senators-focus-on-build-back-better">call on your senators</a> to pass the Build Back Better (relief) bill.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Planet-roasters_plan)
title: Planet-roasters plan
uri: Planet-roasters-plan
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Planet-roasters_plan)
content:
 
<p>
Australia's planet-roaster government chose a company that advises
fossil fuel interests to develop a "plan" for how to reduce
Australia's greenhouse emissions.  The plan it came up with was,
"Don't bother trying until 2040, then buy so-called 'offsets' <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/13/scott-morrisons-net-zero-modelling-reveals-a-slow-lazy-and-shockingly-irresponsible-approach-to-climate-action">so we
won't really have to do any of the work</a>."

<p>
Morrisson has been working for fossil fuel interests all along, <a href="https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#13_November_2021_(Australia">and
lying to protect them</a>.
   I speculate he will get a reward based on how long he can delay any
effort to avoid disaster.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Steve_Bannon_indicted)
title: Steve Bannon indicted
uri: Steve-Bannon-indicted
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Steve_Bannon_indicted)
content:
 
<p>
*Steve Bannon indicted <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/12/steve-bannon-indicted-capitol-attack-subpoena">for refusal to comply with Capitol attack subpoena</a>.*

<p>
I think that Bannon could spin this out for months before being
convicted.  But this may loosen some other tongues.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Violent_dispossession)
title: Violent dispossession
uri: Violent-dispossession
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Violent_dispossession)
content:
 
<p>
The ironic relationship between the violent dispossession of Māori in
New Zealand in the 1880s <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/commentisfree/2021/nov/13/my-family-history-omits-all-mention-of-violence-against-maori-i-want-to-break-the-silence">and the violent dispossession of Irish in
Ireland in 1649</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Smaller_birds_with_longer_wings)
title: Smaller birds with longer wings
uri: Smaller-birds-with-longer-wings
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Smaller_birds_with_longer_wings)
content:
 
<p>
*   Birds in the Amazon are becoming smaller but growing longer wings, a
   study has found, with scientists saying <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/12/amazon-birds-shrink-longer-wings-global-heating-species-aoe">global heating is the most
   likely explanation</a>.*

<p>
I am disappointed in the scientist who legitimized unscientific
thinking about evolution by referring to it as "nature's genius."
Such language panders to people who want to misunderstand evolution in
religious terms.

<p>
Evolution does not operate via creativity, planning, or consciousness.
It is the result of randomness systematically skewed by actual conditions.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Amazon_forest)
title: Amazon forest
uri: 2021-11-16-Amazon-forest
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Amazon_forest)
content:
 
<p>
*Transform approach to Amazon [forest] <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/12/transform-approach-to-amazon-or-it-wont-survive-says-major-science-report">or it will not survive</a>, warns major
 report.*

<p>
The problem is that the loggers, miners and soy farmers are eager to
eliminate the forest.  Eventually their farms will die because they
depended on the rain historically caused by the forest,
  but by then it will be too late.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Climate_agreement)
title: Climate agreement
uri: Climate-agreement
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Climate_agreement)
content:
 
<p>
*The US-China climate agreement is imperfect &mdash; <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/12/us-china-cop26-climate-carbon-superpower">but reason to hope</a>.*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Defending_rioters)
title: Defending rioters
uri: Defending-rioters
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Defending_rioters)
content:
 
<p>
*Trump defended rioters who threatened to ‘hang Mike Pence’, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/12/trump-capitol-attack-rioters-mike-pence">audio
reveals</a>.*
  He did this as an embellishment to hammering on the lie
that the 2020 election was rigged.  Republicans tried, of course,
as they do every year,
  but they did not succeed.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Pardon_civil_rights_activist)
title: Pardon civil rights activist
uri: Pardon-civil-rights-activist
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Pardon_civil_rights_activist)
content:
 
<p>
A campaign calls for a postumous pardon for civil rights activist
Homer Plessy, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/12/plessy-ferguson-jim-crow-segregation-pardon-new-orleans">who was convicted of riding in a whites-only railroad
car</a>.
  His loss in the Supreme Court legitimized the Jim Crow segregation laws.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Profitable_business)
title: Profitable business
uri: Profitable-business
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Profitable_business)
content:
 
<p>
Flying desperate Syrians to Belarus so they can try to get into
Poland <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2021/nov/12/its-risky-but-ill-go-anyway-migrants-desperate-to-reach-europe-via-belarus">is a very profitable business for Belarus</a>.
  Belarus charges each Syrian 3500 dollars for this service.
Evidently those who accept the deal are not broke.

<p>
Is there any sort of business you can start with $3500 in Syria?


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Prison_for_clerical_error)
title: Prison for clerical error
uri: Prison-for-clerical-error
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Prison_for_clerical_error)
content:
 
<p>
Imprisoned Turkish party leader Selahattin Demirtaş's wife has been sentenced
to 30 months in prison <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/12/wife-of-jailed-kurdish-politician-gets-30-months-in-turkish-prison-after-typo">for a clerical error on a medical form</a>.

<p>
This demonstrates the full extent of dictator Erdoğan's contempt for
human rights.  When he wants to put you in prison, no excuse is too
absurd.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Minor_efficiency_improvements)
title: Minor efficiency improvements
uri: Minor-efficiency-improvements
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Minor_efficiency_improvements)
content:
 
<p>
Shipping companies are starting to respond to pressure to cut their greenhouse
gas emissions, but <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/12/shipping-industry-climate-crisis-reckoning">actual changes beyond minor efficiency improvements have
not yet started</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Failure_of_the_Cop26)
title: Failure of the Cop26
uri: Failure-of-the-Cop26
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Failure_of_the_Cop26)
content:
 
<p>
Representatives of environmentalist groups walked out of the Cop26 conference
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/12/global-civil-society-representatives-walkout-cop26-protest">to protest its failure to adopt policies that can achieve its mission</a>.



 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_((satire)_Baby
title: (satire) Baby's Soul
uri: (satire)-Baby-s-Soul
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_((satire)_Baby
content:
 
<p>

(satire) *Distracted God Accidentally <a href="https://www.theonion.com/distracted-god-accidentally-puts-baby-s-soul-in-envelop-1848024726">Puts Baby’s Soul In Envelope</a> To
Utility Company.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_((satire)_Forbidden_Knowledge)
title: (satire) Forbidden Knowledge
uri: (satire)-Forbidden-Knowledge
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_((satire)_Forbidden_Knowledge)
content:
 
<p>

(satire) *<a href="https://www.theonion.com/teen-s-eyes-begin-glowing-red-while-reciting-forbidden-1848039967">Teen's Eyes Begin Glowing Red</a> While Reciting Forbidden
Knowledge From Book On Critical Race Theory.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Beyond_Oil_and_Gas)
title: Beyond Oil and Gas
uri: Beyond-Oil-and-Gas
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Beyond_Oil_and_Gas)
content:
 
<p>

Several countries have started <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/11/global-alliance-launches-goal-bringing-about-end-oil-and-gas">Beyond Oil and Gas</a>, a campaign to put an end
to fossil fuels.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Carbon_offset_trees)
title: Carbon offset trees
uri: 2021-11-16-Carbon-offset-trees
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Carbon_offset_trees)
content:
 
<p>

Grandiose plans to plant millions of trees to cite as "carbon offsets"
will have <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/13/the-problem-with-fixing-the-climate-with-trees-were-going-to-need-a-bigger-planet">trouble finding enough land</a> to put them on.
Not just any land will support a forest.
<p>
It supports my conclusion that we must reject "offsets"
and instead really reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Cost_of_Flint_water_crisis)
title: Cost of Flint water crisis
uri: Cost-of-Flint-water-crisis
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Cost_of_Flint_water_crisis)
content:
 
<p>

*Flint water crisis costs Michigan $600 million &mdash; <a href="https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2021/11/children-poisoned-by-flint-water-will-receive-majority-of-626-million-settlement/">preventing it would have cost $80/day</a>.*
<p>
The people who chose the plan that inflicted lead poisoning
in Flint will not have to pay the damages.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Unvaccinated_in_Latvia)
title: Unvaccinated in Latvia
uri: Unvaccinated-in-Latvia
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Unvaccinated_in_Latvia)
content:
 
<p>

*Latvia <a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/latvia-bans-unvaccinated-lawmakers-voting-docks-pay-2021-11-12/">bans unvaccinated lawmakers from voting</a> [and discussions].*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(AstraZeneca_pledge)
title: AstraZeneca pledge
uri: AstraZeneca-pledge
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(AstraZeneca_pledge)
content:
 
<p>

*Outrage as AstraZeneca <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/12/outrage-astrazeneca-ditches-pledge-not-profit-publicly-funded-vaccine">Ditches Pledge</a> Not to Profit From Publicly
Funded Vaccine.*
<p>
Oxford should have published everything and invited companies to make
its vaccine.  It probably has an excuse for not doing that, but we should
call in question the validity of that excuse.
<p>
Perhaps we should ask every company that makes a pledge
to sign a contract so that it will have to pay enormous damages
if it violates the pledge.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Foreign_journalists)
title: Foreign journalists
uri: Foreign-journalists
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Foreign_journalists)
content:
 
<p>

Hong Kong seems to be <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/13/hong-kong-denies-visa-to-economist-journalist-in-latest-media-blow">kicking out many selected foreign journalists</a>,
I suppose to make them all start censoring themselves.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Where_now_)
title: Where now?
uri: Where-now
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Where_now_)
content:
 
<p>

*   Where now? Governments have <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/13/heres-the-truth-our-leaders-at-cop26-have-failed-us-the-rest-is-spin">agreed to a weak climate deal</a> which gets us   a smidgen closer to holding temperatures to a rise of 1.5C. But as
   regards all the most important pledges to phase out coal, reduce
   subsidies and protect forests, Glasgow failed.*
<p>
I think the progress in this agreement is more than what those words
suggest.  But it is still lacking the concrete, clear and firm
commitments to immediate action that we really need.
<p>
Here is a less emotional <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/13/cop26-countries-agree-to-accept-imperfect-climate-agreement">resume of the agreement</a> and its good and bad
points.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Protecting_right_whales)
title: Protecting right whales
uri: Protecting-right-whales
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(Protecting_right_whales)
content:
 
<p>

To protect right whales, Maine lobster fishers need to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/12/maine-lobster-fishers-fight-conservationists-entangled-whales">switch to
self-lifting lobster pots</a> that don't need a rope and a buoy.  But they
are expensive.
<p>
The government should fund this equipment.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(False_accusations)
title: False accusations
uri: 2021-11-16-False-accusations
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_November_2021_(False_accusations)
content:
 
<p>

LA teenagers are charged with making false accusations that sent <a href="/glossary.html#thug">thugs</a>
to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/13/los-angeles-teens-swatting-attacks-black-lives-matter">raid one of the leaders of Black Lives Matter</a>.
<p>
Fanatical hate often leads people to become dishonest
and cruel in a more direct sense.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021(Islamist_fanatics_afghan)
title: Many Afghans fear reprisals from Taliban
uri: Many-Afghans-fear-reprisals-from-Taliban
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021(Islamist_fanatics_afghan)
content:
 
<p>
Many Afghans fear reprisals from Taliban or unofficial murderous
Islamist fanatics, and are hiding -- 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/14/i-loved-my-job-in-the-police-then-the-taliban-came-for-me">they don't know for how long.</a>

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021(Uk_ministerial_code)
title: UK are going to court
uri: UK-are-going-to-court
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021(Uk_ministerial_code)
content:
 
<p>
Civil servants in the UK are going to court to insist on applying the
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/14/boris-johnson-priti-patel-ministerial-code-civil-servants">ministerial code seriously when ministers violate it and mistreat staff.</a>


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021(Cop26_climate_toohot)
title: Coal mining too hot in Australia.
uri: Coal-mining-too-hot-in-Australia
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021(Cop26_climate_toohot)
content:
 
<p>
Cop26 may have made the climate for 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2021/nov/15/cop26-will-make-life-harder-for-australian-fossil-fuel-industry-nsw-treasurer-predicts">coal mining too hot in Australia.</a>


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021(Tory_nhs_nospace)
title: There is no space for them.
uri: There-is-no-space-for-them
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021(Tory_nhs_nospace)
content:
 
<p>
Tory undermining of the NHS has reached the point where patients wait in 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/society/2021/nov/14/patients-are-dying-from-being-stuck-in-ambulances-outside-ae-report">ambulances outside emergency rooms because there is no space for them.</a>

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021(India_china_cop26_poor)
title: Have to explain themselves to poor nations.
uri: Have-to-explain-themselves-to-poor-nations
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021(India_china_cop26_poor)
content:
 
<p>
*India and China will “have to explain themselves to poor nations” 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/14/alok-sharma-deeply-frustrated-by-india-and-china-over-coal">after watering down the Glasgow climate pact, warned the Cop26 president.</a>*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021(Us_aircraft_bombed_pissi)
title: US aircraft bombed a mixed group of PISSI soldiers
uri: US-aircraft-bombed-a-mixed-group-of-PISSI-soldiers
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021(Us_aircraft_bombed_pissi)
content:
 
<p>
In 2019, a US aircraft bombed a mixed group of PISSI soldiers and 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/14/us-confirms-2019-airstrike-hit-crowd-of-syrian-women-and-children">their families (perhaps held captive by them).</a>
<p>
Some officers tried to have this investigated, but the investigation
was quashed and the military never disclosed what had happened.
<p>
Based on the article, it seems that the ethical issues were
complicated, but covering this up was certainly wrong.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021_(Urgent:_Cancel_student_debt)
title: Urgent: Cancel student debt
uri: 2021-11-16-Urgent-Cancel-student-debt
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021_(Urgent:_Cancel_student_debt)
content:
 
<p>
US citizens: <a href="https://act.ayannapressley.com/signup/100-days-student-debt/">call on Biden</a> to cancel a substantial part of student
debt.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021_(Vehicle_emissions_targets)
title: Vehicle emissions targets
uri: Vehicle-emissions-targets
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021_(Vehicle_emissions_targets)
content:
 
<p>
*   Weak EU vehicle emissions targets could allow Europe’s biggest
   carmakers to produce <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/15/major-european-carmakers-will-hit-emissions-targets-too-easily-research-shows">millions more petrol and diesel cars than
   necessary up to 2030</a>.*


 


title: Journalist arrested during anti-coup protests
uri: Journalist-arrested-during-anti-coup-protests
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021_(Journalist_arrested_during_anti-coup_protests)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021_(Journalist_arrested_during_anti-coup_protests)

content:
 
<p>
*Al Jazeera bureau chief <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/15/al-jazeera-bureau-chief-arrested-in-sudan-amid-deadly-anti-coup-protests">arrested in Sudan amid deadly anti-coup protests</a>.*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021_(Haka_in_anti-vaccine_protests)
title: Haka in anti-vaccine protests
uri: Haka-in-anti-vaccine-protests
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021_(Haka_in_anti-vaccine_protests)
content:
 
<p>
*Māori tribe tells anti-Covid vaccine protesters <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/15/maori-tribe-tells-anti-covid-vaccine-protesters-to-stop-using-its-haka">to stop using its
 haka</a>.*

<p>
To rebuke them for being jerks would be entirely justified.
(As well as disease-spreading lunatics, which they always are.)

<p>
However, it is intolerable for anyone to have power over who can use
traditional music and dance.  We should not allow that form of power
to advance.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021_(No_running_water)
title: No running water
uri: No-running-water
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021_(No_running_water)
content:
 
<p>
Two million Americans have no running water, and the US water infrastructure
is decaying <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/12/americans-very-big-water-drinking-problem">because the federal government has cut most of its support
since around 1980</a>.

<p>
Water supply is contaminated in many areas; <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2016-sep-dec.html#26_December_2016_(Impacts_of_fracking_on_drinking_water)">fracking is making more of them</a>.

<p>
1980 is when President Reagan started redirecting America's income to
rich people and businesses, instead of what most Americans needed.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021_(FDA_chief)
title: FDA chief
uri: FDA-chief
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021_(FDA_chief)
content:
 
<p>
*Senate Urged to Reject Biden's "Poor Choice" for FDA Chief <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/12/senate-urged-reject-bidens-poor-choice-fda-chief-over-ties-big-pharma">Over Ties to Big
Pharma</a>.*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021_(Jeopardizing_future)
title: Jeopardizing future
uri: Jeopardizing-future
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021_(Jeopardizing_future)
content:
 
<p>
*Five Rich Nations Jeopardizing Future <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/12/five-rich-nations-jeopardizing-future-plans-fossil-fuel-expansion-report">With Plans for Fossil Fuel Expansion</a>:
Report.*

<p>
The list includes the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia,
Canada, and Norway.  It should include China too, as China is now
rich and powerful.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021_(Arms_sale)
title: Arms sale
uri: Arms-sale
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021_(Arms_sale)
content:
 
<p>
*Ilhan Omar Unveils Resolution <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/12/ilhan-omar-unveils-resolution-block-unconscionable-saudi-arms-sale">to Block 'Unconscionable' Saudi Arms Sale</a>.*

<p>
The US should not participate in <a href="/glossary.html#salafi">Salafi Arabia</a>'s war in Yemen, and
that includes providing materiel or support for it.

<p>
There are two kinds of resolution that can be used for this: one which
allows the president to veto it and one which does not.
  The former kind is ineffective for this purpose.
Which kind of resolution has been filed?


 


title: Urgent: make the corrupter testify
uri: Urgent-make-the-corrupter-testify
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021_(Urgent:_make_the_corrupter_testify)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021_(Urgent:_make_the_corrupter_testify)

content:
 
<p>
US citizens: <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/petitions/make-donald-trump-testify-about-the-january-6th-insurrection?nowrapper=true">call on Congress</a> to make the corrupter testify about his
involvement in the Jan 6 attack on the Capitol.

<p>
This is presuming there is no hope of prosecuting him for this based
on the testimony of others.  Questioning him in Congress would require
giving him immunity for prosecution, and that would be unfortunate
if we could otherwise send him to prison.


 


title: Safety precautions and regulations
uri: Safety-precautions-and-regulations
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021_(Safety_precautions_and_regulations)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021_(Safety_precautions_and_regulations)

content:
 
<p>
Studies show: <a href="https://slate.com/technology/2021/11/risk-compensation-debunked-masks-rapid-tests-vaccines-safety.html">safety precautions and regulations are often very effective</a>.
  In a wide range of areas, they protect people from harm.

<p>
There are denialists who argue that every safety precaution is ultimately
worthless, because it will encourage so much reckless behavior as to
negate the benefit.  The figures show they are wrong, wrong, wrong.

<p>
Their mistake is not to recognize that the precautions may encourage
some people to be somewhat more reckless, but that isn't a big enough
problem to outweigh the direct benefit of the precaution.

<p>
What does encourage recklessness is believing disinformation that
attacks safety measures.

<p>
So get vaccinated, and use your seat belt, your helmet, your condom,
and your mask!


 


title: Revelations on Covid-19 management
uri: Revelations-on-Covid-19-management
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021_(Revelations_on_Covid-19_management)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021_(Revelations_on_Covid-19_management)

content:
 
<p>
*   Documents released Friday reveal how in early 2020 the Trump
   administration <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/12/documents-expose-staggering-pattern-political-interference-trumps-covid-19-response">downplayed the deadly danger posed by the nascent
   Covid-19 pandemic</a>, silencing and sidelining top health officials who
   tried to warn the public and destroying evidence of political
   interference while issuing rosy declarations that the outbreak was
   "totally under control" and would soon be over.*

<p>
This included gagging the CDC and altering its data reports.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021_(Federal_Reserve_chair)
title: Federal Reserve chair
uri: Federal-Reserve-chair
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021_(Federal_Reserve_chair)
content:
 
<p>
Joseph Stiglitz: *Why the Federal Reserve chair <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/business/2021/nov/10/why-the-federal-reserve-chair-jerome-powell-must-go">Jerome Powell must go</a>.*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021_(Classroom_books)
title: Classroom books
uri: Classroom-books
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021_(Classroom_books)
content:
 
<p>
*Texas schools resist Republican request <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/13/texas-schools-books-republican-matt-krause">for records on classroom books</a>.*


 


title: Extinction Rebellion in the City
uri: Extinction-Rebellion-in-the-City
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021_(Extinction_Rebellion_in_the_City)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021_(Extinction_Rebellion_in_the_City)

content:
 
<p>
Extinction Rebellion protesters <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/13/arrests-as-xr-activists-block-lord-mayors-show-in-london">blocked an event of the City of London</a>.

<p>
The City of London is a small neighborhood of the city called London,
or would be if the word "neighborhood" fit an area with very few
residents but lots of offices of big banks and finance companies.
It has been given special legal status <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2011-sep-dec.html#5_November_2011_(London_Banksters)">which enables those companies can
fully dominate it</a>,
                   and one of the things those companies use their
local domain for is to keep investing in fossil fuels.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021_(Vaccine_mandate)
title: Vaccine mandate
uri: Vaccine-mandate
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021_(Vaccine_mandate)
content:
 
<p>
A US appeals court decided tentatively to suspend the vaccine mandate
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/13/conservative-judges-block-biden-covid-19-vaccine-requirement-businesses">for medium and large businesses until it decides the question</a>.

<p>
This is unfortunate, but what is really unfortunate is that the US
government does not have the power to ensure that Americans protect
each other from a disease that can cause death, and can also cause
lasting medical problems and disabilities for those that don't die of
it.



 


title: (satire) *Park Ranger Slips Fat Fish To Bear
uri: (satire)-Park-Ranger-Slips-Fat-Fish-To-Bear
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021((satire)_park_ranger_slips_fatfish)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021((satire)_park_ranger_slips_fatfish)

content:
 
<p>
(satire) *Park Ranger Slips Fat Fish To Bear 
<a href="https://www.theonion.com/park-ranger-slips-fat-fish-to-bear-before-gesturing-tow-1848040438">Before Gesturing Towards Littering Family.</a>*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021(Lukashenko_fortress_europe)
title: To mask the cruelty of Fortress Europe.
uri: To-mask-the-cruelty-of-Fortress-Europe
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021(Lukashenko_fortress_europe)
content:
 
<p>
*Lukashenko is a 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/14/fortress-europe-violent-pushbacks-exploit-people-pursue-policy">handy villain to mask the cruelty of Fortress Europe.</a>*
<p>
I disagree with one subtle point: the EU's actions and Lukashenko's
actions are not parallel. Lukashenko actively lures migrants,
so he can use them as weapons; the EU simply wants to keep them out.
<p>
*On trial for saving lives: 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/14/on-trial-for-saving-lives-the-young-refugee-activist-facing-a-greek-court">the young refugee activist facing a Greek court.</a>*
<p>
Americans who provided water and other humanitarian assistance to
migrants in the desert a few years ago were likewise charged with
aiding their entry.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021(Reckless_autocrats_betray)
title: Reckless autocrats betray the promises of revolution.
uri: Reckless-autocrats-betray-the-promises-of-revolution
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021(Reckless_autocrats_betray)
content:
 
<p>
*From Nicaragua to China, 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/14/from-nicaragua-to-china-reckless-autocrats-betray-the-promises-of-revolution">reckless autocrats betray the promises of revolution.</a>*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021(Planets_fate_cop26)
title: Planet's fate is still in the balance.
uri: Planet-s-fate-is-still-in-the-balance
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#16_November_2021(Planets_fate_cop26)
content:
 
<p>
*There has been progress at Cop26, 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/14/there-has-been-progress-at-cop26-but-the-planets-fate-is-still-in-the-balance">but the planet’s fate is still in the balance.</a>*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#17_November_2021_(Urgent:_Fossil-Free_Finance_Act)
title: Urgent: Fossil-Free Finance Act
uri: 2021-11-17-Urgent-Fossil-Free-Finance-Act
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#17_November_2021_(Urgent:_Fossil-Free_Finance_Act)
content:
 
<p>
US citizens: <a href="https://act.350.org/letter/sen-ff-finance-act/">call on senators</a> to sponsor the Fossil-Free Finance Act.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#17_November_2021_(Tax_dodging)
title: Tax dodging
uri: 2021-11-17-Tax-dodging
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#17_November_2021_(Tax_dodging)
content:
 
<p>
Tax dodging reportedly amounted to almost $500 billion last year,
and Britain <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/16/almost-500bn-lost-to-tax-abuse-by-firms-and-super-rich-in-2021">is responsible for 200 billion of that</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#17_November_2021_(Democracy_protests)
title: Democracy protests
uri: Democracy-protests
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#17_November_2021_(Democracy_protests)
content:
 
<p>
*Cuba democracy protests thwarted <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/16/cuba-democracy-protests-thwarted-after-rallies-banned-and-leaders-arrested">after rallies banned and leaders arrested</a>.*

<p>
The Cuban government claims this is a proxy for a campaign for
destabilization and regime change.  That could be true, or not.
What do these leaders advocate doing about other issues if they
win the political rights that Cubans are entitled to?


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#17_November_2021_(Drug_decriminalization)
title: Drug decriminalization
uri: Drug-decriminalization
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#17_November_2021_(Drug_decriminalization)
content:
 
<p>
*Drug Decriminalization in Oregon, One Year Later: Thousands of Lives Not
Ruined by Possession Arrests, <a href="https://drugpolicy.org/press-release/2021/11/drug-decriminalization-oregon-one-year-later-thousands-lives-not-ruined">$300 Million+ in Funding for Services</a>.*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#17_November_2021_(Help_a_depressed_economy)
title: Help a depressed economy
uri: Help-a-depressed-economy
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#17_November_2021_(Help_a_depressed_economy)
content:
 
<p>
The Tory way to help a depressed area's economy is to give privileges
to businesses in that area &mdash; <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/business/2021/nov/13/low-taxes-and-levelling-up-the-great-freeport-experiment-comes-to-teesside">for instance, tax exemptions</a>.

<p>
There are many ways to use public funds to help rebuild the economy of
a region.  I suspect that politicians' enthusiasm for local "enterprise
zones" as a method comes from the desire to reduce taxes on business
and thus shift more wealth to the wealthy.  The more parts of a country
enjoy the lower tax rate, the more of a disadvantage other parts will
claim to suffer, until finally they all get the same tax reduction for
business.


 


title: Unauthorized immigrants and vaccine
uri: Unauthorized-immigrants-and-vaccine
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#17_November_2021_(Unauthorized_immigrants_and_vaccine)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#17_November_2021_(Unauthorized_immigrants_and_vaccine)

content:
 
<p>
Unauthorized immigrants in the UK <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2021/nov/13/effects-of-uks-hostile-environment-for-migrants-have-worsened-during-the-pandemic-study-shows">are afraid that they will be deported if
they go to get vaccinated</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#17_November_2021_(Urgent:_Equal_Rights_Amendment)
title: Urgent: Equal Rights Amendment
uri: 2021-11-17-Urgent-Equal-Rights-Amendment
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#17_November_2021_(Urgent:_Equal_Rights_Amendment)
content:
 
<p>
US citizens: <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/forms/sign-the-petition-remove-the-trump-roadblocks-and-allow-equal-protections-in-the-us-constitution?nowrapper=true">call on Biden</a> to cancel the memo with which the wrecker tried
to block approval of the Equal Rights Amendment.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#17_November_2021_(Human_Library)
title: Human Library
uri: Human-Library
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#17_November_2021_(Human_Library)
content:
 
<p>
Through the Human Library you can arrange a conversation <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/11/14/health/human-library-blake-cec/index.html">with someone who
represents a point of view or way of life that you feel uncomfortable with</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#17_November_2021_(Capitol_thug_department)
title: Capitol thug department
uri: Capitol-thug-department
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#17_November_2021_(Capitol_thug_department)
content:
 
<p>
The Capitol <a href="/glossary.html#thug">thug</a> department's jail housed mainly people of little
influence until this year, and treated them like dirt.  Now people are
being jailed for attacking the Capitol on Jan 6, <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/11/14/politics/january-6-jail-complaints-washington-dc/index.html">and complaining
about the same mistreatment</a> &mdash; and being heard.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#17_November_2021_(Settler_violence)
title: Settler violence
uri: Settler-violence
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#17_November_2021_(Settler_violence)
content:
 
<p>
*Rights Group [B'Tselem] Says Israel <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/14/rights-group-says-israel-uses-settler-violence-against-palestinians-take-over-west">Uses Settler Violence Against
Palestinians to Take Over West Bank Land</a>.*


 


title: Inspection of deportation prisons
uri: Inspection-of-deportation-prisons
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#17_November_2021_(Inspection_of_deportation_prisons)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#17_November_2021_(Inspection_of_deportation_prisons)

content:
 
<p>
The US deportation <a href="/glossary.html#thug">thugs</a> have privatized inspections of their
deportation prisons.  The inspection company bends over backwards
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/14/we-need-shut-down-ices-mass-immigration-detention-machine">to give every prison a passing grade, no matter how bad it is</a>.

<p>
That's what privatization is for &mdash; as a way to shrug off accountability.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#17_November_2021_(Global_heating)
title: Global heating
uri: 2021-11-17-Global-heating
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#17_November_2021_(Global_heating)
content:
 
<p>
<a href="/glossary.html#global heating">Global heating</a> takes Aswan in southern Egypt from dry to drier,
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/14/climate-emergency-worsens-freak-storm-sends-snow-scorpion-plague-egypts-aswan">except when it causes a sudden downpour</a>.

<p>
A rain of deadly scorpions happened also, but though 500 people were stung,
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/16/more-than-500-stung-by-scorpions-flushed-out-by-storms-in-egypt">they were all saved with antivenin</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#17_November_2021_(Urgent:_Build_Back_Better)
title: Urgent: Build Back Better
uri: Urgent-Build-Back-Better
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#17_November_2021_(Urgent:_Build_Back_Better)
content:
 
<p>
US citizens: <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/forms/tell-congress-pass-build-back-better-now/">call on the House of Representatives</a> to pass
the Build Back Better act (relief and climate bill) now.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#17_November_2021_(Digital_panopticon)
title: Digital panopticon
uri: Digital-panopticon
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#17_November_2021_(Digital_panopticon)
content:
 
<p>
Employers are increasingly turning their workers' computers and homes
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/business/2021/nov/14/monitoring-software-working-from-home-staff">into a digital panopticon</a>.

<p>
This article describes a museum's projection of the British home of 2050,
recognizes it as dystopian, and <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2021/nov/14/houses-of-tomorrow-a-more-hopeful-vision-of-domesticity-or-a-dystopian-nightmare">displays displeasure only rather mildly</a>.

<p>
Some of these automated features could respect your freedom if they
are implemented in libre software and run on your own libre platforms.
If we want that, we had better start rejecting the user-subjugating
platforms now.

<p>
One suggestion: when you enter a house, ask whether there are
listening devices such as Alexa, or video insecurity cameras, and as
to unplug them.  Even if you don't insist, at least people will learn
that what they are doing is problematical and some people don't like
it.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#17_November_2021_(Space_debris)
title: Space debris
uri: 2021-11-17-Space-debris
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#17_November_2021_(Space_debris)
content:
 
<p>
Russia used an antisatellite weapon against an old Russian satellite.
Such tests create space debris, which we don't have a way to clean up.
That is <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/science/2021/nov/15/us-investigating-debris-event-space-reports-russia-anti-satellite-weapon-test">a grave, persistent, accumulating problem</a>.

<p>
The ultimate danger of space debris is that a chain reaction of
collisions could make so much debris that it would destroy all
satellites, and we could never put up satellites (or spacecraft)
again.  An accelerated version of this was shown in the movie Gravity.
I think that was unrealistically fast, but no one would dare build and
launch a spaceship if its collisional half life were as little as ten
years.  Everything human would be excluded from space, except for the
hypersonic nuclear missiles that China and the US are testing.  (They
don't need to stay in space for very long.)

<p>
The US tested an ASAT missile
  and was rebuked for wantonly creating space debris.

<p>
Every so often I see a proposed system for cleaning up space debris, I
don't think any of them would scale to the amount of debris present in
Earth orbit in recent years.



 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Urgent:_EPA_Against_Polluters)
title: Urgent: take action against polluters
uri: Urgent-take-action-against-polluters
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Urgent:_EPA_Against_Polluters)
content:
 
<p>
US citizens: call on the EPA to 
<a href="https://actionnetwork.org/petitions/sign-the-petition-take-action-against-polluters-that-harm-frontline-communities?nowrapper=true&referrer=group-civic-shout&source=direct_link">take action against polluters that harm frontline communities.</a>


 


title: Urgent: Reject Amazon
uri: Urgent-Reject-Amazon
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Urgent:_Reject_Amazon_Buy_Local_Stores)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Urgent:_Reject_Amazon_Buy_Local_Stores)

content:
 
<p>
Everyone: reject Amazon -- 
<a href="https://act.couragecampaign.org/sign/blackoutbezos-black-friday_2021/?refcode=email1&t=1007&akid=12251%2E183061%2EU0ZXSD">buy your gifts (and whatever else you buy) from local stores.</a>
<p>
I follow that policy for all my purchases, all year round.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Urgent:_Provide_More_Food_Banks)
title: Urgent: provide more food to food banks.
uri: Urgent-provide-more-food-to-food-banks
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Urgent:_Provide_More_Food_Banks)
content:
 
<p>
US citizens: call on Congress 
<a href="http://help.feedingamerica.org/site/R?i=2drOZ6xoWx_V1jpq9EEKWC3717MNv4u5GVKLTEHStvG1l2NVO3cBzQ">to provide more food to food banks.</a>


 


title: Urgent: stop donating to Anti-Voting Rights
uri: Urgent-stop-donating-to-Anti-Voting-Rights
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Urgent:_Stop_Donating_Anti_Voting)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Urgent:_Stop_Donating_Anti_Voting)

content:
 
<p>
US citizens: <a href="https://act.pfaw.org/sign/stop-corporations-donating-anti-voting-lawmakers/?utm_source=aa&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=corpvotingrights&t=1008&akid=23057%2E660322%2Eo1zLo_">call on Microsoft, Facebook, Amazon, Intel, Target, Dell, Cisco, and Boston Scientific</a>
to stop donating to Anti-Voting Rights
Members of Congress.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Cop26_did_not_agree)
title: Deal to save the ecosphere
uri: Deal-to-save-the-ecosphere
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Cop26_did_not_agree)
content:
 
<p>
Governments did not agree to a deal to save the ecosphere from global
heeting, 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/16/cop-26-big-business-climate-crisis-neoliberal">but there are deals working on some big parts of the problem.</a>


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(UK_science_museum_rejected)
title: UK Science Museum is being rejected
uri: UK-Science-Museum-is-being-rejected
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(UK_science_museum_rejected)
content:
 
<p>
The UK Science Museum is 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/16/science-museum-shell-links-pollution-experts-refuse-show-work">being rejected by some scientists for its deals with fossil fuel companies.</a>


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(US_meat_companies_disease)
title: Meat companies made workers so powerless
uri: Meat-companies-made-workers-so-powerless
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(US_meat_companies_disease)
content:
 
<p>
US meat companies made workers so powerless, and the regulatory
agencies too, that neither 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/16/meatpacking-industry-covid-outbreaks-workers">could do anything to make the companies protect them from spreading disease to each other.</a>
<p>
The four big meat companies crush unions and bully local governments,
even state governments.  It would be a very good thing to break them
up into 40 competing companies.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Imitation_meat_horizon)
title: Imitation meat
uri: Imitation-meat
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Imitation_meat_horizon)
content:
 
<p>
Acceptable 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/food/2021/nov/16/3d-printed-steak-taste-test-meat-mimic">imitation meat seems to be on the horizon now.</a>
<p>
From the article, it seems some tuning is still needed, but I expect that
a few years of work will get it right.
<p>
Meanwhile, where is there a restaurant that will cook wheat gluten
that actually tastes exactly like wheat gluten, instead of pretending
to be meat and failing laughably?


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(NHS_staff_mandate_inequality)
title: NHS to get vaccinated
uri: NHS-to-get-vaccinated
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(NHS_staff_mandate_inequality)
content:
 
<p>
A campaign to lead the staff of the 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/16/nhs-staff-vaccinated-covid-mandatory-inequality">NHS to get vaccinated describes
methods that are effective.</a>
<p>
I support outreach and communication methods like these. I also
support vaccine mandates with no exceptions other than medical ones.
Both are effective and they are not mutually exclusive.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Supporting_poor_people)
title: Supporting poor people
uri: Supporting-poor-people
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Supporting_poor_people)
content:
 
<p>
Several Walgreens stores supported poor people in San Francisco
through massive shoplifting.  Now they plan to close the stores,
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/15/walgreens-closures-san-francisco-crime-debate">because they are losing money</a>.

<p>
I can't blame the company for closing these stores, but I also agree
that the poor people of those neighborhoods deserve food to eat.  I
think it is the city's responsibility to provide food by setting up
food banks in these areas, and pay for them out of taxes.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Risk_of_heat_rashes)
title: Risk of heat rashes
uri: Risk-of-heat-rashes
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Risk_of_heat_rashes)
content:
 
<p>
Due to increased temperatures, children who stay outdoors in Freetown,
Sierra Leone, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2021/nov/15/eugenia-kargbo-freetown-sierra-leone-first-chief-heat-officer-climate-crisis">now risk heat rashes</a>.
  Another <a href="/glossary.html#global heating">global heating</a> effect is diminishing crop yields.
Meanwhile, the rising ocean is causing floods.

<p>
The city is trying to cope with the various problems, but treating the
symptoms will work only so far.  The only real solution is to stop the
cause of the problem, and that is mainly in the big emitters: China,
US, India, Europe, Australia.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Palm_oil_land_grabs)
title: Palm oil land grabs
uri: Palm-oil-land-grabs
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Palm_oil_land_grabs)
content:
 
<p>
*Palm oil land grabs <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2021/nov/15/palm-oil-land-grabs-trashing-environment-and-displacing-people">‘trashing’ environment and displacing people</a>.*

<p>
Humans may be able to reduce the world land demand for meat, as we
learn to eat less meat and as its price discourages purchase.  But it
will be very hard to do this with palm oil.  My recommendation is,
make fewer humans &mdash; since that tends to reduce so many other world
problems.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Revolving_door_for_ministers)
title: Revolving door for ministers
uri: Revolving-door-for-ministers
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Revolving_door_for_ministers)
content:
 
<p>
The UK suffers <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2021/nov/15/half-of-tory-ex-ministers-take-jobs-in-sectors-relevant-to-former-department">from a revolving door for ministers</a>,
   much like the US.


 


title: Jailing and torture of opposition leaders
uri: Jailing-and-torture-of-opposition-leaders
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Jailing_and_torture_of_opposition_leaders)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Jailing_and_torture_of_opposition_leaders)

content:
 
<p>
When Ugandan <a href="/glossary.html#thug">thugs</a> jailed opposition leaders before the election,
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/15/ugandan-children-held-in-prison-for-months-after-crackdown-on-opposition">they jailed the leaders' children too</a>.
  They have all been tortured and held in horrible conditions &mdash; for instance,
so crowded that they couldn't find a spot of floor to sleep on.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Armadillos_spread)
title: Armadillos spread
uri: Armadillos-spread
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Armadillos_spread)
content:
 
<p>
<a href="/glossary.html#global heating">Global heating</a> has enabled armadillos to spread from their former home
in Texas <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/15/its-like-hunting-aliens-inside-the-town-besieged-by-armadillos">all he way to Nebraska and Virginia</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Disappearing_of_tennis_pro)
title: Disappearing of tennis pro
uri: Disappearing-of-tennis-pro
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Disappearing_of_tennis_pro)
content:
 
<p>
China has disappeared tennis pro Peng Shuai <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/15/concern-growing-chinese-tennis-star-accused-china-official-assault-peng-shuai">after she said that the
former vice-premier Zhang Gaoli coerced her into having sex with him</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Rising_humidity)
title: Rising humidity
uri: Rising-humidity
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Rising_humidity)
content:
 
<p>
*Rising humidity <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2021/nov/15/rising-humidity-could-be-linked-to-increase-in-suicides-report-finds">could be linked to increase in suicides</a>, report finds.*


 


title: Unknowingly funding fossil fuel companies
uri: Unknowingly-funding-fossil-fuel-companies
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Unknowingly_funding_fossil_fuel_companies)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Unknowingly_funding_fossil_fuel_companies)

content:
 
<p>
*How workers <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/15/how-workers-unknowingly-fund-climate-crisis-pensions">unknowingly fund [fossil fuel companies] with their
 pensions</a>,*
  which is risky for the workers as well as the world.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Organization_of_American_States)
title: Organization of American States
uri: Organization-of-American-States
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Organization_of_American_States)
content:
 
<p>
* The Organization of American States is no longer credible. We need a
   new body [to scrutinize democratic procedures] <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/15/organization-of-american-states-democracy-observatory">if we are to protect
   democracy [in the Americas]</a>.*

<p>
The article presents examples of how the OAS has acted duplicitously
to favor US foreign policy.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Thugs_convinced)
title: Thugs convinced
uri: Thugs-convinced
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Thugs_convinced)
content:
 
<p>
Four Kenyan thugs <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/15/kenyan-police-officers-jailed-over-death-of-british-aristocrats-son">have been convicted of killing a British visitor in
jail</a>.

<p>
It took 9 years to do this, even helped by the aristocratic connections
of the man they killed.


 


title: Running medical personnel into the ground
uri: Running-medical-personnel-into-the-ground
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Running_medical_personnel_into_the_ground)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Running_medical_personnel_into_the_ground)

content:
 
<p>
The UK <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/15/people-dying-ambulances-javid-health-secretary">is running its medical personnel into the ground</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Alex_Jones_liable)
title: Alex Jones liable
uri: Alex-Jones-liable
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Alex_Jones_liable)
content:
 
<p>
*Alex Jones <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/15/alex-jones-liable-damages-sandy-hook-school-shooting-connecticut">liable for damages over Sandy Hook shooting claims</a>, judge rules.*

<p>
It's past time to impose a penalty on lying about people.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Astrazine_and_glyphosate)
title: Astrazine and glyphosate
uri: Astrazine-and-glyphosate
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Astrazine_and_glyphosate)
content:
 
<p>
The EPA found that the pesticide Atrazine <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2021/11/15/epa-two-most-widely-used-pesticides-likely-harm-majority-endangered-species">harms 1013 protected species,
while glyphosate harms 1676 of them</a>.



 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Urgent:_Raise_Min_Wage_Walmart)
title: Urgent: call on Walmart to raise its minimum wage to $15/hr.
uri: Urgent-call-on-Walmart-to-raise-its-minimum-wage-to-15-hr
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#18_November_2021_(Urgent:_Raise_Min_Wage_Walmart)
content:
 
<p>
Everyone: call on 
<a href="https://actionnetwork.org/forms/sign-now-demand-walmart-raise-its-minimum-wage-to-15hour?nowrapper=true&referrer=&source=email-why-is-insulin-so-expensive-in-the-united-states-of-america-3">Walmart to raise its minimum wage to $15/hr.</a>


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Low_carbon_fuel_roasters)
title: "low carbon" fossil fuel.
uri: low-carbon-fossil-fuel
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Low_carbon_fuel_roasters)
content:
 
<p>
The planet roasters' new alternative to cutting fossil fuels is to
promote use of 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/16/how-low-carbon-energy-became-new-low-tar-cigarette">natural gas and call it "low carbon" fossil fuel.</a>
<p>
It doesn't actually result in less greenhouse emissions, though.
<p>
The article compares this to "low tar" cigarettes, which putatively
reduced the danger of smoking but actually didn't.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Pfizer_new_treatment_generic)
title: Covid-19 treatment for generic production
uri: Covid-19-treatment-for-generic-production
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Pfizer_new_treatment_generic)
content:
 
<p>
Pfizer has licensed its new Covid-19 treatment for generic production
-- 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/16/far-enough-pfizers-covid-drug-license-excludes-almost-half-global-population"> for countries containg half the world's population.</a>
<p>
The other half, around 90 countries, it will probably gouge to get
the most possible money from each. The way to do that is by setting,
for each country, a price that many of its citizens can't afford.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Aus_ancient_rock_art)
title: Heating effects are destroying the ancient rock art
uri: Heating-effects-are-destroying-the-ancient-rock-art
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Aus_ancient_rock_art)
content:
 
<p>
Global heating effects are destroying the 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2021/nov/16/global-heating-is-destroying-rock-art-tens-of-thousands-of-years-old-experts-warn">ancient rock art of ancient Austrailia</a>

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Nervous_tics_tiktok)
title: influencers are spreading functional neurological syndrome
uri: influencers-are-spreading-functional-neurological-syndrome
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Nervous_tics_tiktok)
content:
 
<p>
Some TikTok influencers are spreading functional neurological syndrome 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/media/2021/nov/16/the-unknown-is-scary-why-young-women-on-social-media-are-developing-tourettes-like-tics">(a disorder including unconcious tics) by showing videos of them.</a>
<p>
I believe showing these videos should be prohibited. People must be
free to express any ideas or points of view, but a tic is not a point
of view. People who see the tic videos and start imitating them are not
making a decision based on the video, they are falling prey to it.
<p>
The famous US court decision that it is a crime to shout "fire" in a
crowded theater was based on the argument that in such circumstances
people cannot take time to judge rationally how to respond.
<p>
This also reminds me of Triolet in "How to talk to girls at parties."

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Europe_bird_population)
title: Bird population has declined
uri: Bird-population-has-declined
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Europe_bird_population)
content:
 
<p>
Europe's bird population has 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/16/house-sparrow-population-in-europe-drops-by-247m">declined by 16% since 1980.</a>

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Nord_stream_nvidia_deal)
title: Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline
uri: Nord-Stream-2-gas-pipeline
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Nord_stream_nvidia_deal)
content:
 
<p>
Germany has delayed certification of the new Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline
from 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/business/live/2021/nov/16/uk-unemployment-rate-payrolls-vacancies-record-furlough-ftse-sterling-bitcoin-china-business-live?filterKeyEvents=false&page=with%3Ablock-6193a1318f08d09d4ebd8149">Russia to Germany, on grounds of financial details.</a>
<p>
This may not have any bigger significance, but I hope that it does.
Europe must limit its fossil fuel use, not expand it, and it needs to
limit Putin's power, not expand it.




 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_((satire)_thanksgiving_portions)
title: (satire) Americans To Eat Reasonable Portions On Thanksgiving
uri: (satire)-Americans-To-Eat-Reasonable-Portions-On-Thanksgiving
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_((satire)_thanksgiving_portions)
content:
 
<p>
(satire) *Higher Prices May 
<a href="https://www.theonion.com/higher-prices-force-americans-to-eat-reasonable-por-1848041822">Force Americans To Eat Reasonable Portions On Thanksgiving.</a>*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(30_times_racial_profiling)
title: Black Londoner accuses the thugs of racial profiling
uri: Black-Londoner-accuses-the-thugs-of-racial-profiling
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(30_times_racial_profiling)
content:
 
<p>
A 14-year-old black Londoner accuses the thugs of racial profiling
after 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2021/nov/15/black-boy-in-stop-and-search-30-times-accuses-met-police-of-racist-profiling">they stopped him on the street and searched him, 30 times.</a>

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Cnn_Marijuana_pregnancy)
title: Marijuana in pregnancy may cause aggression and anxiety
uri: Marijuana-in-pregnancy-may-cause-aggression-and-anxiety
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Cnn_Marijuana_pregnancy)
content:
 
<p>
There is evidence that using marijuana in 
<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/11/16/health/pregnancy-weed-children-aggression-anxiety-wellness/index.html">pregnancy may cause aggression and anxiety for the resulting children.</a>
However, this
result is tentative as the sample was small.
<p>
Marijuana use during pregnancy seems to cause many other problems for
the resulting children.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_((satire)_drone_strikes_coverup)
title: (satire) Americans Assure Pentagon They Don't Care Enough
uri: (satire)-Americans-Assure-Pentagon-They-Don-t-Care-Enough
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_((satire)_drone_strikes_coverup)
content:
 
<p>
(satire) *Americans Assure Pentagon 
<a href="https://www.theonion.com/americans-assure-pentagon-they-don-t-care-enough-to-mak-1848068984">They Don't Care Enough To Make Cover Up Drone Strikes Worthwhile.</a>*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Palestinian_human_rights)
title: Palestinian human rights groups
uri: Palestinian-human-rights-groups
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Palestinian_human_rights)
content:
 
<p>
The Palestinian human rights groups that Israel labeled "terrorist"
still 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/16/100-global-donors-pen-letter-stand-palestinian-rights-groups-outlawed-israel">receiving support from foreign human rights groups.</a>
<p>
Which reject the false labeling of them.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Australian_climate_blocked)
title: Activists have blocked a coal export
uri: Activists-have-blocked-a-coal-export
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Australian_climate_blocked)
content:
 
<p>
Australian climate activists have blocked a 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2021/nov/17/blockade-australia-anti-coal-activists-vow-more-disruption-despite-warnings-of-25-year-jail-sentences">coal export terminal and used emergency switches to shut down its operations.</a>
<p>
The state has threatened them with 25-year prison sentences.  "It’s not
as scary as the future we are heading to" said a protester.
<p>
I think that all imprisoned nonviolent climate protesters will be
pardoned in at most 15 years. By then, no government will be able to
deny that they were heroes.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Metaverse_shape_human_beings)
title: Metaverse schemes
uri: Metaverse-schemes
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Metaverse_shape_human_beings)
content:
 
<p>
Metaverse schemes seen as new ways of reshaping the 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/15/why-we-should-reject-mark-zuckerbergs-dehumanizing-vision-metaverse">internet into a system to dominate and shape human beings.</a>


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_((satire)_leahy_reelection)
title: (satire) Leahy Won't Seek Reelection
uri: (satire)-Leahy-Won-t-Seek-Reelection
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_((satire)_leahy_reelection)
content:
 
<p>
*Patrick Leahy Announces He Won’t Seek

<a href="https://www.theonion.com/patrick-leahy-announces-he-won-t-seek-reelection-to-mak-1848059159">Reelection To Make Room For Next Generation Of 70-Year-Olds.</a>*



 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Grocery_cartels)
title: Grocery Cartels
uri: Grocery-Cartels
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Grocery_cartels)
content:
 
<p>
*New Report on "Grocery Cartels" 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/15/new-report-grocery-cartels-details-exploitive-retailer-monopolies">Details Exploitive Retailer Monopolies.</a>*
<p>
The US has only four major supermarket chains -- although there are
a lot of different brands, many supermarket brands are subsidiaries of
the big four.
<p>
Many specific kinds of foods also have too few competitors.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Apple_allow_repair)
title: Apple said it would allow purchasers of iMonsters to repair them.
uri: Apple-said-it-would-allow-purchasers-of-iMonsters-to-repair-them
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Apple_allow_repair)
content:
 
<p>
Apple said it would allow purchasers of 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2021/nov/17/apple-to-sell-parts-and-tools-for-diy-iphone-repairs">iMonsters to repair them.</a>
<p>
This would eliminate ijustices out of the many injustices of the iMonster.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Global_heating_bc_disaster)
title: Disaster in a large part of British Columbia
uri: Disaster-in-a-large-part-of-British-Columbia
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Global_heating_bc_disaster)
content:
 
<p>
Extreme rain, due to global heating, has caused disaster in a large
part of British Columbia. 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/17/pacific-north-west-floods-storm-british-columbia-washington-state">Landslides have blocked roads.</a>
<p>
All land routes into Vancouver are blocked, and railroads will take a long time to repair.
<p>
Much of the nearby city of Abbotsford has been flooded.
The flooded houses will probably have to be torn down and rebuilt.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Sudanese_shot_protestors)
title: Soldiers shot pro-democracy protesters
uri: Soldiers-shot-pro-democracy-protesters
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Sudanese_shot_protestors)
content:
 
<p>
Sudanese soldiers shot pro-democracy protesters in 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/17/sudanese-forces-shoot-dead-at-least-14-protesters-against-coup">Khartoum, killing 14 of them.</a>

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Rep_gosar_punish)
title: House took away Rep. Gosar's committee assignments
uri: House-took-away-Rep-Gosar-s-committee-assignments
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Rep_gosar_punish)
content:
 
<p>
The House took away Rep. Gosar's committee assignments to punish him
for posting 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/17/house-censures-paul-gosar-violent-video-against-aoc">a death threat.</a>
<p>
What punishment could change their minds?
<p>
I've read that conservatives make moral judgments about people based
on how they obey authority and how much they follow cleanliness rules.
<p>
This suggests that an effective form of punishment would be
something that makes him appear disobedient and disgusting. 
For instance, requiring him to wear a dirt-smeared rag instead of clothing.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Masks_covid_cases_half)
title: Masks cut the number of Covid-19 cases
uri: Masks-cut-the-number-of-Covid-19-cases
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Masks_covid_cases_half)
content:
 
<p>
Masks cut the number of Covid-19 cases by half -- 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/17/wearing-masks-single-most-effective-way-to-tackle-covid-study-finds">even among vaccinated people.</a>

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Aus_emissions_green_hydrogen)
title: Comes with a greater risk of creating stranded assets
uri: Comes-with-a-greater-risk-of-creating-stranded-assets
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Aus_emissions_green_hydrogen)
content:
 
<p>
*Hydrogen produced by fossil fuels is more expensive, will release
more greenhouse gas emissions and comes with a greater risk of
creating stranded assets, 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2021/nov/18/green-hydrogen-beats-blue-on-emissions-and-financial-cost-australian-study-finds">according to new research from the Australian National University.</a>*
<p>
However, the former method of producing hydrogen would offer more
profits to the planet roasters.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Us_covid_vaccine_manufacturing)
title: US plans to produce a billion doses of Covid-19
uri: US-plans-to-produce-a-billion-doses-of-Covid-19
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Us_covid_vaccine_manufacturing)
content:
 
<p>
The US plans to produce a billion doses of 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/17/us-covid-vaccine-manufacturing-billion-doses-biden">Covid-19 (or other) vaccine per year.</a>
<p>
This is good, but it doesn't make up for the developed world's insistence
on maintaining a monopoly that stops India and Brazil from doing this.



 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Climate_crisis_crimes_fuels)
title: Fuel companies owe reparations to countries
uri: Fuel-companies-owe-reparations-to-countries
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Climate_crisis_crimes_fuels)
content:
 
<p>
*Fossil fuel companies 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/12/climate-crimes-environment-fossil-fuels-cop26">owe reparations to countries they are destroying.</a>*
<p>
In principle, they do -- but there is a conflict between the goal of
extracting money from them for some other cause (worthy as it may be)
and the goal of ramping down their operations.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(QAnon_Shaman_prison_capitol)
title: "QAnon Shaman" has been sentenced to 3.5 years in prison
uri: QAnon-Shaman-has-been-sentenced-to-3-5-years-in-prison
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(QAnon_Shaman_prison_capitol)
content:
 
<p>
The "QAnon Shaman" has been sentenced to 3.5 years in prison 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/17/qanon-shaman-jacob-chansley-sentenced-capitol-attack-role">for attacking the Capitol.</a>



 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Malcom_x_exonerated)
title: People convicted of helping to assassinate Malcolm X
uri: People-convicted-of-helping-to-assassinate-Malcolm-X
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Malcom_x_exonerated)
content:
 
<p>
Two of the people convicted of helping to assassinate Malcolm X
were exonerated after it became clear that 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/17/malcolm-x-assassination-cleared-muhammad-aziz-khalil-islam">prosecutors concealed evidence in their trials.</a>
<p>
We often find that this has happened in US trials. Correcting the
dishonesty decades later is better than not correcting it, but a
"justice system" that often lies in court is rotten. How can we
make prosecutors stop lying?

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Mexican_marines_trained)
title: Disappearing people for the US war on drugs.
uri: Disappearing-people-for-the-US-war-on-drugs
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Mexican_marines_trained)
content:
 
<p>
Mexican marines, trained by the US, are 
<a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/11/17/mexico-military-pentagon-support-human-rights/">disappearing people for the US war on drugs.</a>


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Compound_climate_state)
title: A compound climate disaster
uri: A-compound-climate-disaster
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Compound_climate_state)
content:
 
<p>
British Columbia and Washington State have suffered a compound climate
disaster: massive fires, 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/17/pacific-north-west-flooding-british-columbia-washington-state-canada">followed by rains on the denuded slopes which washed away the soil.</a>
<p>
I fear that trees won't be able to grow back on those slopes, for want
of soil. Over the next decade, the mountains may become permanently
denuded in this way. To regenerate soil would require thousands of
years.
<p>
Both the fires and the rains were caused by global heating.
"Atmospheric rivers" are more frequent now than they were in the past.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Arizona_prisons)
title: Arizona prisons
uri: Arizona-prisons
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Arizona_prisons)
content:
 
<p>

*Report Finds <a href="https://reason.com/2021/11/09/report-finds-gruesome-medical-malpractice-and-death-in-arizona-prisons/">Gruesome Medical Malpractice and Death</a> in Arizona Prisons.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(South_Korea_Covid_response)
title: South Korea Covid response
uri: South-Korea-Covid-response
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(South_Korea_Covid_response)
content:
 
<p>

*South Korea has probably the <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/17/south-korea-covid-uk-pandemic">best Covid response</a> in the world. What
can the UK [or US] learn?*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Legalize_deforestation)
title: Legalize deforestation
uri: Legalize-deforestation
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Legalize_deforestation)
content:
 
<p>

*Brazil’s Amazon beef plan will <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/17/brazils-amazon-beef-plan-will-legalise-deforestation-say-critics">"legalize deforestation,"</a> say critics.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Journalists
title: Journalists' visas
uri: Journalists-visas
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Journalists
content:
 
<p>

The US and China made a <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/17/china-and-us-agree-to-ease-restrictions-on-journalists">reciprocal deal</a> about journalists' visas.
<p>
I think it is wrong for the US to <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2003-nov-feb.html#28%20December%202003%20(journalist%20Visas)">require journalists to get special visas</a>.
If you are allowed to be in the US, you should be allowed to publish
about what you see here.
<p>
At least, that should be the case for countries that have the same rules
for Americans.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(AI_surveillance)
title: AI surveillance
uri: AI-surveillance
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(AI_surveillance)
content:
 
<p>

*AI surveillance <a href="https://news.trust.org/item/20211115095808-kq7gx/">takes U.S. prisons by storm</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Consolation_prize_to_Bezos)
title: Consolation prize to Bezos
uri: Consolation-prize-to-Bezos
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Consolation_prize_to_Bezos)
content:
 
<p>

Bernie Sanders opposes the Senate's plan for a <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/17/inappropriate-giveaway-galactic-proportions-outrage-over-10-billion-taxpayer-gift">ten-billion-dollar
consolation prize to Bezos</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Palm_scans)
title: Palm scans
uri: Palm-scans
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Palm_scans)
content:
 
<p>

A large music venue in Colorado asks concertgoers to speed up the line
by <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/17/artists-rights-groups-denounce-invasive-palm-scanning-concertgoers-amazon">allowing palm scans</a>.
Amazon says this is safe because the scans are sent over the
internet to an Amazon server.  What happens to the data once there is
cloudy.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Gun_carry_laws)
title: Gun carry laws
uri: Gun-carry-laws
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Gun_carry_laws)
content:
 
<p>

Many states are passing laws allowing just about anyone to <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/11/17/us/concealed-open-carry-guns-police/index.html">carry a gun
in public</a>.  This adds more danger to any confrontation.
<p>
The right to openly carry guns theoretically applies to everyone, but
in practice a black can't dare do it, since the first passing <a href="/glossary.html#thug">thug</a> is
<a href="2014-may-aug.html#21_August_2014_(US_thugs_keep_on_killing_unarmed_black_men)">likely to kill per.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_((satire)_Stupid_and_meaningless)
title: (satire) Stupid and meaningless
uri: (satire)-Stupid-and-meaningless
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_((satire)_Stupid_and_meaningless)
content:
 
<p>

(satire) *NFT Investor Reminds Skeptics <a href="https://www.theonion.com/nft-investor-reminds-skeptics-everything-else-in-world-1848058889">Everything Else In World
Stupid And Meaningless Too</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Antivax_fanatics)
title: Antivax fanatics
uri: Antivax-fanatics
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Antivax_fanatics)
content:
 
<p>

New Zealand's antivax fanatics may be less than 1% of the population,
but they have given over to raving hatred, and <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/19/dissent-threats-and-fury-mood-darkens-in-new-zealand-as-covid-restrictions-bite">threaten others with
violent death as well as death by Covid-19</a>.
<p>
Letting this violent hatred stew will encourage them to get more
violent.  I suggest that the government adopt a policy of vaccinating
everyone that is arrested (in the absence of medical reasons not to).
Once they see that vaccination is not a bad thing, they will find it
hard to keep the hate going.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Deforestation_in_Brazil
title: Deforestation in Brazil's Amazon
uri: Deforestation-in-Brazil-s-Amazon
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Deforestation_in_Brazil
content:
 
<p>

*Deforestation in Brazil’s Amazon <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/18/deforestation-in-brazils-amazon-rises-by-more-than-a-fifth-in-a-year">rises by more than a fifth in a year</a>.*
<p>
We now need to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/18/revealed-the-places-humanity-must-not-destroy-to-avoid-climate-chaos">protect the northern forests</a> in Canada, Russia and the
US.  They store a lot of carbon, and if they burn up, we can't
possibly replace them between now and 2050.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Deficit_concerns)
title: Deficit concerns
uri: Deficit-concerns
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Deficit_concerns)
content:
 
<p>

*Sanders Says Deficit Concerns <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/18/sanders-says-deficit-concerns-seem-melt-away-when-its-time-fill-pentagon-coffers">"Seem to Melt Away"</a> When It's Time to
 Fill Pentagon Coffers.*
<p>
Sanders <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/16/we-need-get-our-priorities-right-bernie-sanders-no-778-billion-pentagon-budget-vote">voted against the military appropriations bill</a>
to protest the Senate's prioritizing that over the spending that the
US really needs.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Migrants_pulled_out)
title: Migrants pulled out
uri: Migrants-pulled-out
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#19_November_2021_(Migrants_pulled_out)
content:
 
<p>

Belarus has <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/18/belarus-says-border-camps-have-been-cleared-as-one-year-old-reported-dead">pulled the migrants out of the border area with Poland</a> and
into Belarus, and given them food.  Apparently Lukashenko has given up
on trying to use them to attack Poland.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Urgent:_Demand_Double_Charging)
title: Urgent: Demand College and Universities
uri: Urgent-Demand-College-and-Universities
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Urgent:_Demand_Double_Charging)
content:
 
<p>US citizens: call on 
<a href="https://actionnetwork.org/petitions/demand-colleges-and-universities-stop-double-charging-students-for-credits-accrued-through-internships?nowrapper=true&referrer=group-the-people-united&source=group-the-people-united">colleges and universities to stop charging students for credits they accrued through unpaid internships.</a>


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Company_influences_prejudge)
title: Surveillance voyager
uri: Surveillance-voyager
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Company_influences_prejudge)
content:
 
<p>
A company tries to prejudge who is a criminal, or an extremist, or
whatever, 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/17/police-surveillance-technology-voyager">or will become one of those things, based on people's Facebook social links.</a>
<p>
The people that you communicate with on line tend to influence your
actions.  Therefore, trying to predict what you will do (for instance,
commit crimes or not) based on such links ought to be more accurate
than chance.
<p>
Nonetheless, it is wrong to prejudge people that way. We have to judge
people based on what they actually do, not based on what they seemed
likely to do.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(EU_deforest_require_companies)
title: EU is considering a directive
uri: EU-is-considering-a-directive
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(EU_deforest_require_companies)
content:
 
<p>
The EU is considering a directive to require companies sending various
agricultural products to the EU to prove 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/17/eu-deforestation-beef-coffee-import-ban-commodities-endangered-forests">their products were not related to deforestation.</a>
<p>
The products proposed are beef, wood, palm oil, soy, coffee and cocoa.
<p>
If other big importers sign on to this, it could make a big difference.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Tories_cancel_citizenship)
title: Power to cancel someone's citizenship
uri: Power-to-cancel-someone-s-citizenship
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Tories_cancel_citizenship)
content:
 
<p>
The Tories want to give the British state the power to 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2021/nov/17/new-bill-quietly-gives-powers-to-remove-british-citizenship-without-notice">cancel someone's qcitizenship without even informing the person.</a>
<p>
The victim would learn of this arbitrary act when trying to enter the UK.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Urgent:_Greatest_gift_of_all)
title: Urgent: Greatest gift of all
uri: Urgent-Greatest-gift-of-all
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Urgent:_Greatest_gift_of_all)
content:
 
<p>

<a href="https://www.fsf.org/blogs/community/fsf-giving-guide-freedom-is-the-greatest-gift-of-all">FSF Giving Guide</a>

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Nonexistent_technology)
title: Nonexistent technology
uri: Nonexistent-technology
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Nonexistent_technology)
content:
 
<p>

Australia's planet roasters plan to reduce emissions using the
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/19/a-farce-experts-dismiss-government-claims-a-controversial-and-unproven-technology-will-cut-emissions-by-15">nonexistent technology</a> of burning biomass and capturing the CO2.
<p>
It might not be a bad thing to do, provided it uses waste plant
material which requires no cultivation, but should civilization bet
its survival on an untried extension of a technology that <a href="2021-may-aug.html#22_August_2021_(Carbon_capture)">so far has
failed</a>?

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Welfare_goals)
title: Welfare goals
uri: Welfare-goals
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Welfare_goals)
content:
 
<p>

*No country has met welfare goals in past 30 years <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/18/no-country-has-met-welfare-goals-in-past-30-years-without-putting-planet-at-risk">"without putting
planet at risk."</a>*
<p>
*   Looking at a sample of 148 nations, research by the University of Leeds
   found wealthy countries were putting the future of the planet at risk
   to make minimal gains in human welfare, while poor countries were
   living within ecological boundaries but underachieving in areas such as
   life expectancy and access to energy.*
<p>
This does not imply that it is impossible to provide everyone with a
good life while operating sustainably, only that the path countries
have taken does not lead there.  Reducing luxuries for the rich, and
meat production (though meat is not limited to the rich), would help.
A smaller population would help a lot.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Lethal_crackdown)
title: Lethal crackdown
uri: Lethal-crackdown
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Lethal_crackdown)
content:
 
<p>

*Sudan pro-democracy activists <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/18/sudan-pro-democracy-activists-call-for-escalation-after-lethal-crackdown">call for escalation</a> after lethal crackdown.*
<p>
The US and China have major political influence in Africa.  I wonder
what the US is doing to influence developments in Sudan, and what
outcome it is pushing for, and likewise China.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Banning_criticism)
title: Banning criticism
uri: Banning-criticism
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Banning_criticism)
content:
 
<p>

Indian politicians have decided that it is <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/18/indian-comedian-vir-das-accused-of-vilifying-nation">easier to ban criticism</a> of
the nation's problems than to do something about them.
<p>
In effect, they prefer to make people admire India rather than make
India admirable.
<p>
Every country has such exploiters.  What is so bad for India is that
the ruling party and its supporters take that stance.  Supporters of
the BJP are saying, "Don't make things better, lie to us instead."
That request will surely be granted.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Gerrymandering)
title: Gerrymandering
uri: 2021-11-21-Gerrymandering
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Gerrymandering)
content:
 
<p>

How Republicans are <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/18/gerrymandering-republicans-fight-to-vote-newsletter">using gerrymandering</a> this year to guarantee
they get a majority in legislatures with a minority of votes.
<p>
The whole Republican Party has signed on to this "by hook or by crook"
system of seizing illegitimate power.  It's not as violent as a military coup,
but in the long term it will kill more people.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Qatar
title: Qatar's fancy hotels
uri: Qatar-s-fancy-hotels
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Qatar
content:
 
<p>

Qatar's fancy hotels, recommended by the football association FIFA,
pay their workers <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2021/nov/18/we-have-fallen-into-a-trap-for-hotel-staff-qatar-world-cup-dream-is-a-nightmare">about a dollar per hour</a>.
<p>
Since the government forbids them to leave Qatar, they are effectively
slaves of their employer.  To the extent that there are laws to protect
workers, the hotels violate them with impunity.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Fossil_fuel_infrastructure)
title: Fossil fuel infrastructure
uri: Fossil-fuel-infrastructure
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Fossil_fuel_infrastructure)
content:
 
<p>

*The <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/18/moral-case-destroying-fossil-fuel-infrastructure">moral case for destroying fossil fuel infrastructure</a>.*
(And for canceling fossil fuel contracts by fiat.)
<p>
I previously suggested that Pacific island nations whose territory is
being inundated by global heating could declare war on Australia and
counterattack by <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2019-may-aug.html#23_August_2019_(Tuvalu_and_Australia)">sinking some of Australia's coal-export ships</a>.
<p>
It should be possible to do that in ways that allow the ships' crew
to get away in lifeboats.
<p>
They are starting to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/18/climate-vulnerable-nations-call-help-forcing-high-emitters-cut-carbon">organize pressure</a> on Australia and such.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Insurrection_of_1860)
title: Insurrection of 1860
uri: Insurrection-of-1860
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Insurrection_of_1860)
content:
 
<p>

About the Congressional panel that <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/18/trump-6-january-committee-1860">investigated the insurrection of 1860</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Outside_of_work_hours)
title: Outside of work hours
uri: Outside-of-work-hours
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Outside_of_work_hours)
content:
 
<p>

About Portugal's law <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/18/portugal-bosses-work-hours-right-to-disconnect">forbidding employers to contact employees</a> outside
work hours.
<p>
This is tremendously important for those for whom work is just a job,
for whom there is something else more important.  And that's most
people, I think.  But this rule can be devastating for people like me,
we who do work that is the center of our life, we for whom "family
time" usually means forced-to-wait time, and perhaps alone-and-bored
time too.
<p>
We need a way we can get out of this rule.
<p>
It can't be easy and arbitrary.  If it's sufficient for a worker (or
contractor) to say, "Please let my employer contact me 24/7,"
employers will effectively coerce workers into saying that against
their preferences.
<p>
Perhaps everyone will have to have a free software volunteer project
to occupy perself with while cut off from the work project.
<p>
A country which has a law requiring small companies to respond somehow
within 24 hours &mdash; as some real or proposed internet <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2020-mar-jun.html#20_May_2020_(One_hour">censorship laws</a>
do &mdash; had better not require them to hire several people for this,
just to have someone available at every hour of every day.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Money_for_online_voting)
title: Money for online voting
uri: Money-for-online-voting
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Money_for_online_voting)
content:
 
<p>

*SF received $1.5 million to <a href="https://www.sfexaminer.com/news/sf-received-1-5-million-to-explore-online-voting-critics-think-its-a-horrible-idea/">explore online voting</a>. Critics think it’s
 a horrible idea.
<p>
Using computers to receive and record votes is already <a href="../evoting.html">foolish and dangerous</a>.
Letting those computers communicate with anyone else is totally asking to lose.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Battling_wildfires)
title: Battling wildfires
uri: Battling-wildfires
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Battling_wildfires)
content:
 
<p>

*US mountain states <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/18/us-mountain-states-wildfire-despite-winter">battle wildfires despite impending winter</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Nominee_for_comptroller)
title: Nominee for comptroller
uri: Nominee-for-comptroller
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Nominee_for_comptroller)
content:
 
<p>

Biden's nominee for comptroller of the currency moved to the US from
the Soviet Union just after it collapsed.  Republican senators tried
to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/18/senate-republicans-red-scare-saule-omarova-biden-nominee">call her a communist</a> simply because she was born there.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Reduce_tax_dodging)
title: Reduce tax dodging
uri: Reduce-tax-dodging
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Reduce_tax_dodging)
content:
 
<p>

The Build Back Better relief bill includes a new tax on profits of large
corporations, which will <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/18/elizabeth-warren-releases-blueprint-end-free-ride-tax-dodging-us-billionaires">reduce their tax dodging</a>.
Not as much we ought to reduce it, but it is a step forward.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_((satire)_America
title: (satire) America's children for $52 Billion
uri: (satire)-America-s-children-for-52-Billion
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_((satire)_America
content:
 
<p>

(satire) *Disney <a href="https://www.theonion.com/disney-acquires-all-of-america-s-children-for-52-billi-1848076101">Acquires All Of America's Children</a> For $52 Billion.
"Ship Them To Us And We Will Do As We Wish," Says CEO Bob Chapek.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Fission_reactors)
title: Fission reactors
uri: Fission-reactors
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Fission_reactors)
content:
 
<p>

Experts <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/17/scientists-warn-experimental-nuclear-plant-backed-bill-gates-outright-dangerous">criticize Bill Gates's plan</a> for "small" fission reactors
cooled by liquid sodium. The most obvious flaw is that the sodium burns if it gets in contact
with air.
<p>
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/17/moving-renewables-revolution-catchphrase-reality">Various approaches</a> to providing electricity at all times using renewable
sources.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(New_South_Wales_reopened)
title: New South Wales reopened
uri: New-South-Wales-reopened
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(New_South_Wales_reopened)
content:
 
<p>

New South Wales reopened activities with most people vaccinated, but kept
test-and-trace and mask requirements.  Case rates have <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/19/defying-expectations-how-new-south-wales-kept-covid-cases-low-after-reopening">remained very low</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(The_name_Taiwan)
title: The name Taiwan
uri: The-name-Taiwan
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(The_name_Taiwan)
content:
 
<p>

China is <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/19/china-condemns-opening-of-taiwan-office-in-lithuania-as-egregious-act">flipping out</a> because Lithuania allowed Taiwan to open a trade
office using the name "Taiwan".

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Modi_repeals_laws)
title: Modi repeals laws
uri: Modi-repeals-laws
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Modi_repeals_laws)
content:
 
<p>

Indian farmers made Modi announce he will <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/19/we-are-more-powerful-than-modi-indian-farmers-celebrate-laws-repealing">repeal the laws they have
been protesting</a> for a year.
But they don't trust his word on that, and they demand more.
<p>
<a href="2020-nov-feb.html#7_December_2020_(Modi's_plutocratist_farm_policies)">See</a>
for a description of these laws.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Salvini
title: Salvini's trial
uri: Salvini-s-trial
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Salvini
content:
 
<p>

<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2021/nov/19/richard-gere-open-arms-rescue-boat-heart-of-salvini-trial">Testimony in Salvini's trial</a> for trying to stop a rescue ship carrying
147 refugees (rescued from small boats) from landing in Italy for a
long time.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Peng_Shuai)
title: Peng Shuai
uri: Peng-Shuai
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Peng_Shuai)
content:
 
<p>

The Woman's Tennis Association has shown courage in <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/19/wtas-hardline-approach-to-peng-shuai-presents-china-with-new-problem">standing up for
its disappeared Chinese member Peng Shuai</a>.
<p>
Usually western companies and organizations are so desperate for
profits from China that they bow down to whatever China demands.
<p>
About several prominent Chinese who have been <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/19/china-disappeared-high-profile-figures-who-have-gone-missing-during-xi-jinpings-rule">disappeared, partly or
totally</a>.
<p>
The list does not mention the <a href="2017-mar-jun.html#13_May_2017_(The_Panchen_Lama)">Panchen Lama and his family.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Coal_policy)
title: Coal policy
uri: Coal-policy
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Coal_policy)
content:
 
<p>

*Climate campaigners <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/19/climate-campaigners-take-south-africa-to-court-over-coal-policy">take South Africa to court</a> over coal policy.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Great_resignation)
title: Great resignation
uri: Great-resignation
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_November_2021_(Great_resignation)
content:
 
<p>

A large part of the "great resignation" which has caused the US labor
shortage involves working mothers who were forced to quit because they
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/19/great-resignation-mothers-forced-to-leave-jobs">couldn't rely on schools as a place to put their children</a> while working.
<p>
Perhaps economic considerations will convince states to allow mothers
to leave more children alone at home.
<p>
*US faces <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/19/us-faces-nurse-shortage-burnout-covid">nurse shortage from burnout</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_November_2021_(Amazon_Black_Friday_strikes)
title: Amazon Black Friday strikes
uri: Amazon-Black-Friday-strikes
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_November_2021_(Amazon_Black_Friday_strikes)
content:
 
<p>

*Amazon Will <a href="https://www.vice.com/en/article/m7vebb/amazon-will-face-black-friday-strikes-and-protests-in-20-countries">Face Black Friday Strikes and Protests</a> in 20 Countries.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_November_2021_(Kashmiris_used_as_human_shields)
title: Kashmiris used as human shields
uri: Kashmiris-used-as-human-shields
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_November_2021_(Kashmiris_used_as_human_shields)
content:
 
<p>

Kashmiris accuse Indian thugs of <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/20/kashmir-deaths-human-shields-india-police">using a few Kashmiris as human
shields</a> in a gun-fight with supposed militant separatists, who may
not even have existed.
<p>
They buried the victims' bodies secretly, perhaps to prevent an autopsy
from learning the truth of how they were killed.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_November_2021_(Sequoias_killed_by_wildfires)
title: Sequoias killed by wildfires
uri: Sequoias-killed-by-wildfires
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_November_2021_(Sequoias_killed_by_wildfires)
content:
 
<p>

*US wildfires have <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/19/giant-sequoias-wildfires-killed">killed nearly 20% of world's giant sequoias</a> in two years.*

 


title: Fisherman suing fossil fuel companies
uri: Fisherman-suing-fossil-fuel-companies
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_November_2021_(Fisherman_suing_fossil_fuel_companies)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_November_2021_(Fisherman_suing_fossil_fuel_companies)

content:
 
<p>

West coast US fishermen are suing fossil fuel companies because the
heating and acidification of the ocean are <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/20/american-fishers-west-coast-sue-big-oil">interfering with species to
be fished</a>, and with the safety of catching and eating them.

 


title: Rep. Gosar encouraging murder of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez
uri: Rep-Gosar-encouraging-murder-of-Alexandria-Ocasio-Cortez
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_November_2021_(Rep._Gosar_encouraging_murder_of_Alexandria_Ocasio-Cortez)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_November_2021_(Rep._Gosar_encouraging_murder_of_Alexandria_Ocasio-Cortez)

content:
 
<p>

Encouraging the murder of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has made Rep. Gosar
a <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/11/19/politics/paul-gosar-donald-trump/index.html">star among right-wing fanatics</a>, and won him an endorsement from the wrecker.
<p>
Compared with this, being censured and losing committee assignments
was insignificant, a price he considers worth paying.  Indeed, he said
as much by tweeting that veiled call to murder a second time.  Gosar
is boasting, "You can't stop me."
<p>
Democrats need to find a way to punish Gosar and others who stir up a
right-wing coup, one that will make them conclude that it isn't worth
the price.

 


title: Glasgo has radicalized a generation
uri: Glasgo-has-radicalized-a-generation
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_November_2021_(Glasgo_has_radicalized_a_generation)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_November_2021_(Glasgo_has_radicalized_a_generation)

content:
 
<p>

*   Copenhagen was a failure that demotivated activists, while Paris merely
   placated them. But <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/18/world-leaders-failed-us-cop26-change-always-comes-power-people">Glasgow has radicalized a generation</a>.*

 


title: Boston funds our of fossil fuels
uri: Boston-funds-our-of-fossil-fuels
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_November_2021_(Boston_funds_our_of_fossil_fuels)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_November_2021_(Boston_funds_our_of_fossil_fuels)

content:
 
<p>

Boston has decided to <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/18/applause-all-who-fought-boston-city-council-votes-divest-fossil-fuels">move its municipal funds permanently out of
fossil fuels</a>.
<p>
The city has no choice about investment of its pension funds, sad to say.

 


title: John Deere workers get a better contract
uri: John-Deere-workers-get-a-better-contract
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_November_2021_(John_Deere_workers_get_a_better_contract)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_November_2021_(John_Deere_workers_get_a_better_contract)

content:
 
<p>

John Deere workers accepted a new contract, <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/18/sacrifice-and-solidarity-pay-striking-john-deere-workers-win-bigger-wage-hike">considerably better</a> than what they were offered before the strike.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_November_2021_(Friedrich_Hayek
title: Friedrich Hayek's endorsement of democratic socialism
uri: Friedrich-Hayek-s-endorsement-of-democratic-socialism
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_November_2021_(Friedrich_Hayek
content:
 
<p>

Economist Friedrich Hayek is revered by conservatives, who would be
shocked to find that he <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/18/was-frederick-hayek-bernie-sanders-socialist">endorsed many aspects of Sanders's democratic
socialism</a>.

 


title: Plastic waste from disposable diapers
uri: Plastic-waste-from-disposable-diapers
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_November_2021_(Plastic_waste_from_disposable_diapers)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_November_2021_(Plastic_waste_from_disposable_diapers)

content:
 
<p>

Disposable diapers add up to a <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/20/disposable-nappies-plastic-waste-diapers">large fraction of plastic waste</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_November_2021_(Kyle_Rittenhouse_acquitted)
title: Kyle Rittenhouse acquitted
uri: Kyle-Rittenhouse-acquitted
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_November_2021_(Kyle_Rittenhouse_acquitted)
content:
 
<p>

Kyle Rittenhouse was <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/19/kyle-rittenhouse-trial-key-takeaways">acquitted of all charges</a>.  It seems that
Rittenhouse made arguable claims of self-defense; which were helped to
dominate the outcome by the possible right-wing prejudice of the
judge, plus the all-white jury.
<p>
*Now it’s <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/commentisfree/2021/nov/19/kyle-rittenhouse-verdict-acquitted-protest">open season on protesters</a>.*
After all, lots of white jurors might be eager to acquit right-wingers that
kill protesters.  This is a <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2020-sep-dec.html#21_November_2020_(Helping_drivers_running_down_protesters)">right-wing radicalization point</a>.
That article projects the possible consequences of a willingness to let
right-wing vigilantes get away with killing protesters.
<p>
*As Kyle Rittenhouse Walks Free,
 Republican Lawmakers <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/11/19/kyle-rittenhouse-walks-free-republican-lawmakers-fight-loves/">Fight Over Who Loves Him the Most</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_November_2021_(Austria_vaccination_for_all)
title: Austria vaccination for all
uri: Austria-vaccination-for-all
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_November_2021_(Austria_vaccination_for_all)
content:
 
<p>

*Austria plans <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/19/austria-plans-compulsory-covid-vaccination-for-all">compulsory Covid vaccination for all</a>.*
However, it will properly allow medical exceptions
for those who have a medical condition that precludes vaccination.

 


title: Abdulqadir al Madhfari driven mad
uri: Abdulqadir-al-Madhfari-driven-mad
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_November_2021_(Abdulqadir_al_Madhfari_driven_mad)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_November_2021_(Abdulqadir_al_Madhfari_driven_mad)

content:
 
<p>

19 years imprisonment and torture, in Guantanamo and elsewhere, seem
to have driven Abdulqadir al Madhfari mad.  When he was returned to
Yemen, he said his relatives were impersonators plotting against him,
and <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/11/19/guantanamo-detainee-disappeared-yemen/">ran away</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_November_2021_(Urgent:_Oppose_S.A._4653)
title: Urgent: Oppose S.A. 4653
uri: Urgent-Oppose-S-A-4653
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_November_2021_(Urgent:_Oppose_S.A._4653)
content:
 
<p>

US citizens: call on your Senators to <a href="https://act.winwithoutwar.org/act/pentagon_presents">oppose S.A. 4653 and any other
    increases in military budget</a>.

<p>The Capitol Switchboard number is 202-224-3121.</p>
  <p>If you call, please spread the word!</p>

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_November_2021_(Legislation_banning_PFAs)
title: Legislation banning PFAs
uri: Legislation-banning-PFAs
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_November_2021_(Legislation_banning_PFAs)
content:
 
<p>

*US legislation banning [PFAs] <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/19/forever-chemicals-us-house-senate-legislation">far from certain as Senate fight looms</a>.*
<p>
Some states have passed laws to ban them in paper products.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_((satire)_Tall_Staircases)
title: (satire) Tall Staircases
uri: (satire)-Tall-Staircases
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_((satire)_Tall_Staircases)
content:
 
<p>
(satire) *Texas Bans Access To <a href="https://www.theonion.com/texas-bans-access-to-tall-staircases-in-case-women-with-1848083342">Tall Staircases</a> In Case Women With
Unwanted Pregnancies Get Any Ideas.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_((satire)_Fannie_Mae_NFTs)
title: (satire) Fannie Mae NFTs
uri: (satire)-Fannie-Mae-NFTs
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_((satire)_Fannie_Mae_NFTs)
content:
 
<p>
(satire) *Fannie Mae Issues Billions Of <a href="https://www.theonion.com/fannie-mae-issues-billions-of-mortgage-backed-nfts-1848078703">Mortgage-Backed NFTs</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(The_BBC_and_impartiality)
title: The BBC and impartiality
uri: The-BBC-and-impartiality
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(The_BBC_and_impartiality)
content:
 
<p>
The BBC has the same problem as mainstream US media in <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/nov/19/bbc-balance-boris-johnson">trying to be
impartial when covering a party that attacks the idea of truth</a>.

 


title: Sweden to build hydroelectric-powered factories
uri: Sweden-to-build-hydroelectric-powered-factories
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Sweden_to_build_hydroelectric-powered_factories)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Sweden_to_build_hydroelectric-powered_factories)

content:
 
<p>
Northern Sweden is <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/19/sweden-north-green-jobs">making large factories for batteries and steel</a>, to
run on copious hydroelectiric power, and seeks 100,000 people to move
there for jobs.

 


title: Double benefit of cutting methane
uri: Double-benefit-of-cutting-methane
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Double_benefit_of_cutting_methane)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Double_benefit_of_cutting_methane)

content:
 
<p>
*Pollutionwatch: the <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/19/pollutionwatch-the-double-benefit-of-cutting-methane-emissions">double benefit of cutting methane emissions</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(First_known_Covid_case)
title: First known Covid case
uri: First-known-Covid-case
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(First_known_Covid_case)
content:
 
<p>
Recognizing <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/19/first-covid-patient-in-wuhan-was-at-animal-market-study-finds">an error in the date of the supposed first reported case
of Covid-19</a> makes it clear that the outbreak started at the Wuhan wet
market.

 


title: Florida white supremacist prison guards
uri: Florida-white-supremacist-prison-guards
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Florida_white_supremacist_prison_guards)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Florida_white_supremacist_prison_guards)

content:
 
<p>
*White-supremacist prison guards <a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-prisons-florida-race-and-ethnicity-racial-injustice-60b96681445509d89e6c0497405497d6">work with impunity in Florida</a>.*
It's not much better in the rest of the US.  Many prisons (and thug
departments) make no effort to check whether a job candidate is an
overt racist.
<p>
The article linked to above displays symbolic bigotry by
capitalizing "black" but not "white".  (To avoid endorsing bigotry,
capitalize both words or neither one.)  I object to bigotry, and
normally I decline to link to articles which promote it.  But I make
exceptions for some articles which give important information about
racism or the fight to eliminate racism.  That article is one of the
exceptions.

 


title: Abducted psychiatrist found dead
uri: Abducted-psychiatrist-found-dead
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Abducted_psychiatrist_found_dead)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Abducted_psychiatrist_found_dead)

content:
 
<p>
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2021/nov/19/abducted-afghan-psychiatrist-found-dead-weeks-after-disappearance">Private kidnapers</a> now add to Afghanistan's suffering.

 


title: Boston funds out of fossil fuels
uri: Boston-funds-out-of-fossil-fuels
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_November_2021_(Boston_funds_out_of_fossil_fuels)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_November_2021_(Boston_funds_out_of_fossil_fuels)

content:
 
<p>

Boston has decided to <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/18/applause-all-who-fought-boston-city-council-votes-divest-fossil-fuels">move its municipal funds permanently out of
fossil fuels</a>.
<p>
The city has no choice about investment of its pension funds, sad to say.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Markey_Amendment)
title: Markey Amendment
uri: Markey-Amendment
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Markey_Amendment)
content:
 
<p>
*Markey Amendment Would <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/18/markey-amendment-would-redirect-1-funds-bloated-pentagon-address-climate-crisis">Redirect 1% of Funds From 'Bloated' Pentagon
to Address Climate Crisis</a>.*
<p>
This bill would cut the military budget by 8 billion dollars and spend
the money on improving US national security by helping poor countries
cope with global heating effects.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Steve_bannon)
title: Cumbersome machinery of the state
uri: Cumbersome-machinery-of-the-state
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Steve_bannon)
content:
 
<p>
Studies of Hitler's holocaust show: 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/17/steve-bannon-and-deadly-implications-deconstructing-administrative-state">the cumbersome machinery of the state is the last protector of the vulnerable.</a>
<p>
Hitler, and likewise other totalitarian rulers, established parallel
structures to work their will, bypassing rule-bound state structures
that were less ready to follow shocking orders. These included the SS
and the Red Guards, and perhaps now the Oath Keepers.
<p>
Another similar case: the US destroyed the Iraqi state structure, and this led to a bloody civil war, followed by PISSI.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(fix_climate_debacle)
title: Funding for poor countries that deal with global heating.
uri: Funding-for-poor-countries-that-deal-with-global-heating
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(fix_climate_debacle)
content:
 
<p>
Proposing a simple rule-based system for 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/17/how-fix-climate-finance-debacle">funding support for poor countries to deal with global heating.</a>
<p>
I think that all the major emitters should be taxed the same on new emissions.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Risk_refugee_crossings)
title: Refugee channel boat crossings
uri: Refugee-channel-boat-crossings
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Risk_refugee_crossings)
content:
 
<p>
*Nearly two-thirds of people who migrate to the UK in small boats are
deemed to be 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2021/nov/17/most-people-who-risk-channel-boat-crossings-are-refugees-report">genuine refugees and allowed to remain.</a>*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(DeSantis_covid_mandates)
title: DeSantis covid mandates
uri: DeSantis-covid-mandates
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(DeSantis_covid_mandates)
content:
 
<p>
Florida, dominated by the Covid-19 party, has passed a law banning
vaccine mandates unless they permit religious exemptions.
<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/11/18/politics/desantis-florida-covid-mandates/index.html">before global heating damage causes it to collapse.</a>
<p>
The idea of a religious exemption for vaccination is absurd.  Whatever
your religion says, it cannot excuse you from public health
requirements.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Chinese_world_order)
title: Bipartisan American Empire and Climate Change
uri: Bipartisan-American-Empire-and-Climate-Change
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Chinese_world_order)
content:
 
<p>
A future history for this century: if a new Chinese illiberal world order
replaces the liberal but imperialist US world order, it won't last long
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/18/bipartisan-american-empire-and-catastrophic-climate-change">before global heating damage causes it to collapse.</a>


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Urgent:_expel_paul_gosar)
title: Urgent: call on Twitter to expel Paul Gosar
uri: Urgent-call-on-Twitter-to-expel-Paul-Gosar
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Urgent:_expel_paul_gosar)
content:
 
<p>
US citizens: 
<a href="https://act.weareultraviolet.org/sign/gosar_aoc_twitter/">call on Twitter to expel Paul Gosar.</a>

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Urgent:_end_gerrymandering)
title: Urgent: call on senate to end gerrymandering
uri: Urgent-call-on-senate-to-end-gerrymandering
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Urgent:_end_gerrymandering)
content:
 
<p> 
US citizens: 
<a href="https://actionnetwork.org/petitions/end-gerrymandering-dont-let-partisan-politicians-silence-voters?nowrapper=true&referrer=&source=email-petition-end-gerrymandering">call on the Senate to end gerrymandering.</a>

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Urgent:_pass_build_back_better)
title: Urgent: pass the Build Back Better Act now.
uri: Urgent-pass-the-Build-Back-Better-Act-now
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Urgent:_pass_build_back_better)
content:
 
<p> 
US citizens: call on 
<a href="https://actionnetwork.org/forms/tell-joe-manchin-dont-block-president-bidens-historic-agenda-pass-the-build-back-better-act-now?nowrapper=true&referrer=&source=email-historic-investment-agenda-passes-the-house-is-joe-manchin-on-board-in-the-senate">Senator Manchin to pass the Build Back Better Act now.</a>

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Urgent:_stop_sale_oil_leases)
title: Urgent: stop the sale of oil leases
uri: Urgent-stop-the-sale-of-oil-leases
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Urgent:_stop_sale_oil_leases)
content:
 
<p>
US citizens: call on the Biden administration to 
<a href="https://act.defenders.org/page/35817/action/1?utm_medium=email&utm_source=engagingnetworks&utm_campaign=111921_Cook_Inlet_LeaseSale&utm_content=111921+Cook+Inlet+Lease+Sale&ea.url.id=1058086">stop the sale of oil leases in Cook Inlet in Alaska.</a>



 


title: Global Treaty for Plastic Pollution
uri: Global-Treaty-for-Plastic-Pollution
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Global_Treaty_for_Plastic_Pollution)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Global_Treaty_for_Plastic_Pollution)

content:
 
<p>
Biden supports negotiating <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/18/encouraging-unlike-trump-biden-backs-global-treaty-plastic-pollution">a treaty to reduce plastic pollution in the ocean</a>.
<p>
I've read that the main source of plastic waste in the ocean
is from <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2020-jan-apr.html#27_April_2020_(Recycling_broken_fishing_nets)">abandoned fishing lines and nets</a>.
  Some of them go on entangling and killing wildlife until they break down.
A treaty could require all fishing boats to return all unusable lines and nets
for safe disposal.

 


title: Lithium and boron mine in Serbia
uri: Lithium-and-boron-mine-in-Serbia
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Lithium_and_boron_mine_in_Serbia)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Lithium_and_boron_mine_in_Serbia)

content:
 
<p>

Rio Tinto wants to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2021/nov/19/rio-tintos-past-casts-a-shadow-over-serbias-hopes-of-a-lithium-revolution">open a large lithium and boron mine</a> in Serbia.
That would be very useful for renewable electricity, but the mine
can be toxic.
<p>
We can divide the mine's pollution risks into two kinds: local and
regional.  Rio Tinto can avoid harming local residents and farmers by
buying them out at a price sufficiently above the market value that
they will be able to move elsewhere easily.
<p>
The regional risks, such as polluting rivers, are more difficult.  The
world can't afford to risk the long-term ruination of fresh water
supplies.  As one of the farmers said in the article, you can't trust
Rio Tinto's word that the mine will be safe.  Serbia must consult
independent experts about what precautions could make sure that the
mine does not pollute them, and then insist on those precautions.

 


title: Congresscritters trading in stocks
uri: Congresscritters-trading-in-stocks
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Congresscritters_trading_in_stocks)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Congresscritters_trading_in_stocks)

content:
 
<p>

Congresscritters should be <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/20/congressional-stock-trading-should-be-banned-period">entirely forbidden to trade in stocks</a>.

 


title: UAE official becoming head of Interpol
uri: UAE-official-becoming-head-of-Interpol
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(UAE_official_becoming_head_of_Interpol)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(UAE_official_becoming_head_of_Interpol)

content:
 
<p>

Two former prisoners of the UAE, jailed and tortured for supporting
the wrong football team, campaign to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/20/uae-nominee-interpol-ahmed-naser-al-raisi-torture-claims">stop a UAE official from becoming
the head of Interpol</a>, because he was the inspector general in charge
of preventing and stopping torture.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Three_bridges_blocked_in_London)
title: Three bridges blocked in London
uri: Three-bridges-blocked-in-London
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Three_bridges_blocked_in_London)
content:
 
<p>

Protesters <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/20/climate-protesters-block-london-bridges-after-activists-jailed">blocked three bridges in London</a> in solidarity with the
climate protesters of Insulate Britain, 
who were jailed for blocking a
highway as a protest to demand specific climate defense actions.
<p>
Insulate Britain's demands are valid, and the inconvenience their
protest caused was trivial compared with the inconvenience they are
trying to avert.  However, their method of protest backfired, so they
need to find a more effective method.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Australia
title: Australia's right-wing government
uri: 2021-11-23-Australia-s-right-wing-government
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Australia
content:
 
<p>

Australia's government is right-wing in general, not only planet-roaster.
It <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2021/nov/21/we-need-to-be-alarmed-food-banks-in-overdrive-as-politicians-allow-australians-to-go-hungry">allowed hunger to spread in Australia</a> since a decade ago.

 


title: Boston divesting from fossil fuel
uri: Boston-divesting-from-fossil-fuel
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Boston_divesting_from_fossil_fuel)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Boston_divesting_from_fossil_fuel)

content:
 
<p>

Boston has decided to <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/11/18/applause-all-who-fought-boston-city-council-votes-divest-fossil-fuels">divest the city's funds from fossil fuel
companies</a>.

 


title: Resource limits limit of economic growth.
uri: Resource-limits-limit-of-economic-growth
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Resource_limits_limit_of_economic_growth.)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Resource_limits_limit_of_economic_growth.)

content:
 
<p>

Arguing that resource limits and degradation of the natural world
will <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/20/end-growth-ten-years-after">put a limit on economic growth soon</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(University_of_Austin
title: University of Austin's personnel
uri: University-of-Austin-s-personnel
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(University_of_Austin
content:
 
<p>

The University of Austin's roster of personnel is <a href="https://www.politico.com/news/magazine/2021/11/17/university-austin-bari-weiss-pinker-culture-politics-522800">full of right-wing
thinkers</a>, and has no progressives.  Nadine Strossen says that that's
not by choice.
<p>
The author suggests that the progressive propensity to cancellation
has made academics with leftist views scared to get involved.  It
would be a shame if the founders really want to welcome all views, and
a self-fulfilling prophecy dooms the University of Austin to be the
right-wing advocacy group that its current roster suggests.

 


title: FBI agents temporarily transferred to the CIA
uri: FBI-agents-temporarily-transferred-to-the-CIA
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(FBI_agents_temporarily_transferred_to_the_CIA)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(FBI_agents_temporarily_transferred_to_the_CIA)

content:
 
<p>

The US <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2021/11/19/us/politics/guantanamo-torture-fbi-cia.html">temporarily transferred some FBI agents to the CIA</a>, and they 
tortured prisoners along with the other CIA agents.

 


title: Medicare Advantage companies overcharge Medicare
uri: Medicare-Advantage-companies-overcharge-Medicare
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Medicare_Advantage_companies_overcharge_Medicare)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Medicare_Advantage_companies_overcharge_Medicare)

content:
 
<p>

Medicare Advantage companies <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/19/corporate-plan-murder-medicare-runs-through-medicare-advantage">overcharge Medicare</a>, and the burden of that
contributes to making Medicare more expensive.
<p>
I don't see evidence that there is a plan to abolish basic Medicare,
but even without that, it is still a significant problem.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Electric_cars_the_first_step)
title: Electric cars the first step
uri: Electric-cars-the-first-step
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Electric_cars_the_first_step)
content:
 
<p>

To reduce greenhouse emissions from transport, electric cars are <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/19/it-will-take-much-more-electric-cars-fix-climate-crisis">just
the first step</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Amazon
title: Amazon's efforts killed state privacy bills
uri: Amazon-s-efforts-killed-state-privacy-bills
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Amazon
content:
 
<p>

Amazon's lobbying, and funds to buy legislators, has <a href="https://www.reuters.com/investigates/special-report/amazon-privacy-lobbying/">killed many US state
bills to increase privacy requirements</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Amazon_can
title: Amazon can't track it's data security
uri: Amazon-can-t-track-it-s-data-security
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Amazon_can
content:
 
<p>

Amazon collects so much data about individuals that it <a href="https://www.wired.com/story/amazon-failed-to-protect-your-data-investigation/">can't keep track
of whether all of it is secure against third parties</a>.
<p>
None of it is secure against Amazon itself.

 


title: World climate conference in Egypt
uri: World-climate-conference-in-Egypt
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(World_climate_conference_in_Egypt)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(World_climate_conference_in_Egypt)

content:
 
<p>

The next world climate conference <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/21/cop27-is-in-egypt-next-year-but-will-anyone-be-allowed-to-protest">will have no unofficial protests</a>,
because it will be in Egypt.
<p>
Holding summits in inaccessible places was one of the ways <a href="/glossary.html#plutocratist">plutocratist</a>
leaders <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1999_Seattle_WTO_protests">prevented mass protests after the meetings in Seattle.</a>
<!-- LOOKUP Was this Geneva?
and Genova.

[I think there is a subdir about the protests there
and the violence of the <a href="/glossary.html#thug">thugs</a>.]
-->

 


title: Australia&#39;s right-wing government
uri: 2021-11-23-Australia-s-right-wing-government
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Australia's_right_wing_government)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Australia's_right_wing_government)

content:
 
<p>

Australia's government is right-wing in general, not only planet-roaster.
It <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2021/nov/21/we-need-to-be-alarmed-food-banks-in-overdrive-as-politicians-allow-australians-to-go-hungry">allowed hunger to spread in Australia</a> since a decade ago.

 


title: University of Austin&#39;s personnel
uri: 2021-11-23-University-of-Austin-s-personnel
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(University_of_Austin's_personnel)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(University_of_Austin's_personnel)

content:
 
<p>

The University of Austin's roster of personnel is <a href="https://www.politico.com/news/magazine/2021/11/17/university-austin-bari-weiss-pinker-culture-politics-522800">full of right-wing
thinkers</a>, and has no progressives.  Nadine Strossen says that that's
not by choice.
<p>
The author suggests that the progressive propensity to cancellation
has made academics with leftist views scared to get involved.  It
would be a shame if the founders really want to welcome all views, and
a self-fulfilling prophecy dooms the University of Austin to be the
right-wing advocacy group that its current roster suggests.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#23_November_2021_(Covid_in_America)
title: Covid in America
uri: Covid-in-America
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#23_November_2021_(Covid_in_America)
content:
 
<p>
*Covid <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/21/covid-killed-more-americans-2021-2020-and-gop-death-cult-mostly-blame">Killed More Americans in 2021 Than 2020</a>, and the GOP Death Cult
Is Mostly to Blame.*
  That's some 390,000 in 2021 and some 385,000 in 2020.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#23_November_2021_(Corporate_demolition_of_freedom)
title: Corporate demolition of freedom
uri: Corporate-demolition-of-freedom
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#23_November_2021_(Corporate_demolition_of_freedom)
content:
 
<p>
Ralph Nader: the <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/11/21/corporate-demolition-our-pillars-freedom">right to sue big companies for injuries they cause,
and get damages enough to make them avoid injuring people</a>, is getting
chipped away step by step by courts and legislatures.

 


title: EU pipeline to fuel Malta power plant
uri: EU-pipeline-to-fuel-Malta-power-plant
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#23_November_2021_(EU_pipeline_to_fuel_Malta_power_plant)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#23_November_2021_(EU_pipeline_to_fuel_Malta_power_plant)

content:
 
<p>
The EU is considering funding a new gas pipeline to fuel a power plant
in Malta.  This should be an outrage -- how dare the EU consider doing
something so dangerous?
<p>
This power plant may be linked to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/21/eu-could-fund-gas-project-linked-to-man-charged-in-maltese-journalist-murder-daphne-caruana-galizia">the assassination of journalist
Daphne Caruana Galizia</a>.
<p>
I hope her murderers, including those who plotted the murder, are
caught and convicted, and they should not be allowed to profit from
their crime.  But when it comes to whether to subsidize a fossil-fuel
pipeline, we need to focus on the main issue: building fossil fuel
infrastructure endangers everyone.  This pipeline can kill thousands
of people, and help kill millions.
<p>
Suppose that there had been no assassination and Ms Caruana Galizia
were still alive.  Would that make it acceptable to subsidize fossil
fuel infrastructure?  Surely not.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#23_November_2021_(Sudanese_PM’s_release)
title: Sudanese PM’s release
uri: Sudanese-PM-s-release
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#23_November_2021_(Sudanese_PM’s_release)
content:
 
<p>
Sudan's military government agreed to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/21/sudanese-pms-release-is-only-small-step-in-resolving-crisis">release political prisoners
and share power with the civilian government again</a>.
<p>
The article explains how this doesnt mean that all's well in Sudan,
but it's at least a step in the right direction.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#23_November_2021_(Biases_in_medical_devices)
title: Biases in medical devices
uri: Biases-in-medical-devices
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#23_November_2021_(Biases_in_medical_devices)
content:
 
<p>
Several kinds of medical devices were <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/society/2021/nov/21/from-oximeters-to-ai-where-bias-in-medical-devices-may-lurk">designed based on whites or
based on white males</a>, and can give bad results for other patients.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#23_November_2021_(UAE_and_Interpol)
title: UAE and Interpol
uri: UAE-and-Interpol
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#23_November_2021_(UAE_and_Interpol)
content:
 
<p>
The UAE has used Interpol for <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/11/21/interpol-election-authoritarian-uae-china/">revenge against political "crimes"</a>.
  This is additional reason to be concerned about the possibility that
a UAE official might become president of Interpol.
<p>
The problem with Interpol is systemic: other countries have used
Interpol for repression of dissidents, because <a href="https://stallman.org/archives//2021-jul-oct.html#19_October_2021_(Using_Interpol_for_repression)">it is effective for
that purpose</a>.
It seems to me that avoiding
the election of one potentially bad president is not enough to address
the problem.  Its system for handling red notices needs modification
so that other countries will think twice about a suspect named in one,
rather than reflexively arresting per.

 


title: Vaccination in Pacific Countries
uri: Vaccination-in-Pacific-Countries
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#23_November_2021_(Vaccination_in_Pacific_Countries)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#23_November_2021_(Vaccination_in_Pacific_Countries)

content:
 
<p>
Papua New Guinea is on track to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/21/some-pacific-countries-will-take-years-to-vaccinate-50-of-adult-population-modelling-shows">vaccinate 1/3 of its population
against Covid-19 in five years</a>.
<p>
The rest of the world must provide more vaccine.

 


title: Australian right-wing government
uri: Australian-right-wing-government
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Australian_right-wing_government)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Australian_right-wing_government)

content:
 
<p>

Australia's government is right-wing in general, not only planet-roaster.
It <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2021/nov/21/we-need-to-be-alarmed-food-banks-in-overdrive-as-politicians-allow-australians-to-go-hungry">allowed hunger to spread in Australia</a> since a decade ago.

 


title: Personnel at the University of Austin
uri: Personnel-at-the-University-of-Austin
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Personnel_at_the_University_of_Austin)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#22_November_2021_(Personnel_at_the_University_of_Austin)

content:
 
<p>

The University of Austin's roster of personnel is <a href="https://www.politico.com/news/magazine/2021/11/17/university-austin-bari-weiss-pinker-culture-politics-522800">full of right-wing
thinkers</a>, and has no progressives.  Nadine Strossen says that that's
not by choice.
<p>
The author suggests that the progressive propensity to cancellation
has made academics with leftist views scared to get involved.  It
would be a shame if the founders really want to welcome all views, and
a self-fulfilling prophecy dooms the University of Austin to be the
right-wing advocacy group that its current roster suggests.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#23_November_2021_(Urgent:_Build_Back_Better_bill)
title: Urgent: Build Back Better bill
uri: 2021-11-24-Urgent-Build-Back-Better-bill
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#23_November_2021_(Urgent:_Build_Back_Better_bill)
content:
 
<p>
US citizens: call on the Senate to <a href="https://salsa.wiredforchange.com/o/6503/p/dia/action4/common/public/?action_KEY=14427">pass the Build Back Better (climate
and relief) bill</a>.
<p>
The Capitol Switchboard number is 202-224-3121.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#23_November_2021_(Urgent:_Mexican_Gray_Wolves)
title: Urgent: Mexican Gray Wolves
uri: Urgent-Mexican-Gray-Wolves
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#23_November_2021_(Urgent:_Mexican_Gray_Wolves)
content:
 
<p>
US citizens: call on the Fish and Wildlife Service to <a href="https://act.defenders.org/page/35537/action/1">fully protect
Mexican gray wolves</a>.

 


