Tag: social justice

The Rise of Sociopaths in Politics. Time to Ask Ourselves how Did We Get Here?

 

As you may or may not know, I write opinion pieces for our local paper, focusing on social justice issues. Recently, I’ve been particularly concerned about a troubling trend in our political landscape: the rise of sociopaths as politicians, and the alarming number of people who believe these people have their best interests at heart.

Politics has always been a complex and challenging field, but in recent years, we’ve seen a shift that should concern us all. Sociopaths—people  who lack empathy and moral responsibility—are increasingly finding their way into positions of power. They are often charismatic, manipulative, and skilled at presenting themselves as the champions of the people. But beneath this façade lies a darker reality.

Sociopaths are adept at using charm and manipulation to gain trust and influence. They tell us what we want to hear, promising solutions to our most pressing problems. But these promises are often empty, designed to serve their own interests rather than the community’s.

True leadership requires empathy—the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. Unfortunately, sociopaths are incapable of genuine empathy. Their decisions are calculated and self-serving, leading to policies that may benefit a few while harming many.

One of the most concerning traits of sociopaths in power is their resistance to accountability. They deflect criticism, avoid transparency, and often resort to gaslighting—making others doubt their own perceptions of reality.

In times of crisis or uncertainty, people naturally gravitate towards those who offer clear, decisive solutions. Sociopaths exploit this by presenting themselves as strong leaders who can cut through the noise and get things done.

Sociopaths are often very charismatic, exuding confidence and charm. This can be incredibly appealing, especially in a political climate where we crave stability and certainty.

The spread of misinformation and biased media coverage can distort our perceptions of political candidates. Sociopaths often leverage these platforms to amplify their messages and discredit their opponents.

What Can We Do?

We can educate ourselves and others

Awareness is the first step. We need to educate ourselves about the traits and tactics of sociopathic individuals. By recognizing the signs, we can make more informed decisions about who we support.

We can promote empathy and integrity

As a community, we must prioritise empathy and integrity in our leaders. Celebrate and support candidates who demonstrate these values, and hold those who do not accountable.

We can encourage active participation

Democracy thrives on active participation. Attend community meetings halls, engage in conversations, and ask tough questions. Hold your representatives accountable and demand transparency.

We can build support networks

Create and participate in community groups that advocate for ethical behaviour in politics. These networks can provide a collective voice and a platform for calling out unethical actions.

The rise of sociopaths in politics is a concerning trend, but it’s not insurmountable. By staying informed, promoting ethical leadership, and actively participating in our democratic processes, we can reclaim our political landscape. It’s up to us to ensure that our leaders truly have our best interests at heart.

Thank you for reading, and for being a part of this journey towards a more just and empathetic society. Together we can continue to strive for the change we wish to see in the world.

#Politics #SocialJustice #EmpathyInLeadership #CommunityAction #EthicalPolitics #VoteForChange #Awareness #Accountability #Democracy

How does America justify its tax system

 

I have returned from spending 14 days in the US and I am struggling to justify the fairness of the US tax system ( see my post here) and notion that everybody is expected to tip in the U.S., especially the expectation of tipping regardless of service quality, the inconvenience of needing to carry cash for tips, and all this because American businesses don’t pay people a fair wage.

In the United States, the taxation system, especially for sales tax, is complex and varies significantly from state to state.

What does it say about a country as advanced and influential as the United States that it hasn’t established a common federal system for something as fundamental as sales tax?

To prove my point could it possibly get anymore complicated than this?

General overview of how it works and the variations you might encounter:

  1. Sales Tax:
    • Basics: The most common tax added at the point of sale is sales tax. This is a percentage of the sale price of goods and services.
    • State Level: Sales tax rates are set by individual states. Some states, like Oregon, New Hampshire, Montana, Alaska, and Delaware, have no state sales tax.
    • Local Variations: Within states, additional local sales taxes may be imposed by counties and cities, leading to variations even within the same state.
  2. Use Tax:
    • Some states have a “use tax” on goods that are purchased out of state but used within the state. This is less commonly encountered by tourists but can be relevant for online purchases.
  3. Special Taxes:
    • Certain items, like alcohol, cigarettes, and gasoline, often have additional taxes.
    • In tourist-heavy areas, there may be additional taxes on hotel rooms and car rentals.
  4. No Value-Added Tax (VAT):
    • Unlike many countries, the U.S. does not have a Value-Added Tax (VAT) system. Sales tax is only added at the final point of sale to the consumer.
  5. Price Tags:
    • In most cases, the price displayed on the label does not include sales tax. The tax is added at the cash register.
    • This practice is different from many countries where the price tag includes all taxes.
  6. Variability:
    • The total amount of sales tax can vary widely depending on the state and locality. For example, in New York City, the combined state and city sales tax is 8.875%, while in Portland, Oregon, there is no sales tax.
  7. Exemptions:
    • Some states exempt certain items, like groceries or clothing, from sales tax. These exemptions also vary by state.

The variability in sales tax from state to state and even city to city in the U.S. is obviously confusing for visitors used to more uniform taxation systems. This system reflects the highly decentralised nature of governance in the U.S., where states have considerable autonomy in setting their tax policies. For travellers, it means that the final price at checkout can be higher than the price displayed on the shelf, which can be an unexpected experience if you’re not familiar with the system.

On top of this New York hotels often include several additional taxes and fees on top of the basic room rate. These can significantly increase the total cost of a hotel stay.

Here is breakdown of some of the common taxes and fees you might encounter:

  1. New York City Sales Tax: This is a general sales tax applied to most goods and services in New York City, including hotel rooms. As of my last update, the rate was 4.5%.
  2. New York State Sales Tax: In addition to the city sales tax, there’s also a state sales tax. The state tax rate for hotel stays is currently 4%.
  3. Hotel Room Occupancy Tax: New York City imposes a separate hotel room occupancy tax. This tax can be a fixed dollar amount per room per night, plus a percentage of the room rate. The specific rates can vary based on the room rate and the type of hotel.
  4. Javits Center Fee: Hotels in Manhattan may also charge a Javits Center fee. This is a small surcharge per room per night, meant to support the maintenance and operation of the Jacob K. Javits Convention Centre in Manhattan.
  5. Resort or Amenity Fees: Some hotels charge what’s known as a “resort fee” or “amenity fee.” These fees are supposed to cover additional services like Wi-Fi, gym access, or other hotel amenities. However, they’re often charged regardless of whether guests use these services. The amount varies by hotel and can sometimes be a significant added cost.
  6. Other Potential Fees: Depending on the hotel, there may be additional fees for services like parking, minibar, room service, and more. These are specific to the individual hotel’s policies.

The combination of these taxes and fees can add a substantial amount to the cost of a hotel stay in New York City. It’s always a good idea to ask for a full breakdown of all taxes and fees when booking a hotel room, so you have a clear understanding of the total cost.

In my case I was overcharged $700 USD at one hotel and spent one day of my trip getting a refund

Where are the countries with a tax system similar to Australia, where the price displayed on the label includes all taxes (like the Goods and Services Tax, or GST), typically follow a Value-Added Tax (VAT) system or a similar sales tax structure.

In the below countries, the displayed price is the final price consumers pay, which can make budgeting and shopping more straightforward for consumers. Here are some examples:

  1. European Union Countries: Most, if not all, countries in the European Union include VAT in the displayed price. VAT rates vary by country and by type of goods or services.
  2. United Kingdom: The UK has a VAT system where prices displayed include tax.
  3. Canada: While Canada has a Goods and Services Tax (GST), and in some provinces, a Harmonised Sales Tax (HST), it’s common for prices to be displayed before taxes. However, in some sectors, like airfare and tourism, displayed prices often include all taxes.
  4. New Zealand: Similar to Australia, New Zealand’s Goods and Services Tax (GST) is included in the displayed price.
  5. India: India has a Goods and Services Tax (GST), and the prices displayed typically include this tax.
  6. Japan: Japan’s Consumption Tax is generally included in the shelf price.
  7. South Korea: The displayed prices usually include Value-Added Tax (VAT).
  8. Mexico: The Value-Added Tax (IVA) is typically included in the displayed price.
  9. Scandinavian Countries: Countries like Sweden, Norway, and Denmark include VAT in the displayed price.
  10. South Africa: VAT is usually included in the price shown.

It’s important to note that even in countries with VAT-inclusive pricing, there might be exceptions depending on the type of product or service. For travellers, understanding the local tax system can help in budgeting and avoid surprises with hidden costs.

I know my feelings about tipping in the U.S. are shared by many, both within and outside the country. Apparently its  a complex issue tied to cultural norms, economic models, and personal beliefs about service and compensation and yet it still begs the question

What does it say about a country as advanced and influential as the United States that it hasn’t established a common federal system for something as fundamental as sales tax?

 

#USTaxSystem #FinancialFairness #EconomicEquity #SalesTaxReform #SocialJustice #AdvocacyForChange #EconomicTransparency #ConsumerRights #PolicyChange #UnitedStatesTax #AdvocateForEquity #FinancialReform #SocioeconomicIssues #TaxSystemDebate #FederalReform 🌐💼🔍💡🇺🇸

The US tax system – Seriously Lynne is this the hill you want to die on this week ⁉️ 

A bit of a play with double exposure here and this is me as a warrior princess

Recently returning from the United States, I’ve been pondering the complexities and moral implications of the US tax system.

It’s a system that, to my dismay, obscures the true cost of purchases until the moment they are rung up at the register. This practice not only necessitates that everyone be perpetually armed with a calculator but also places an undue burden on those for whom life’s luxuries are a distant dream, and even securing daily meals for their families is a constant struggle.

This issue, though it might seem a minor inconvenience to some, is emblematic of larger systemic inequities. It ignites in me a fierce desire to advocate for change, to challenge what I perceive as deeply ingrained injustices. It’s a reflection of my warrior princess spirit, driven by my  relentless pursuit of fairness, particularly for those who grapple daily with economic hardships. My fixation on this issue goes beyond mere intellectual curiosity; it is fueled by a profound sense of responsibility to question, to understand, and, where possible, to rectify.

Common sense should dictate that pragmatism should trump my crusade urges – as my friends say

“Truly Lynne is this the hill you want to die on this week”

Beyond question my flag waving tendencies, it leads me to a broader, more profound question. What does it say about a country as advanced and influential as the United States that it hasn’t established a common federal system for something as fundamental as sales tax?

 

This absence of a unified approach not only complicates everyday transactions but also perpetuates a socioeconomic divide, affecting those least able to bear the burden. In a nation renowned for its innovation and leadership, this lingering inconsistency in the tax system raises questions about priorities, equity, and the collective will to streamline and simplify life for everyone, regardless of their economic standing.

Read my post about the American tax system here

#USTaxSystem #FinancialFairness #EconomicEquity #SalesTaxReform #SocialJustice #AdvocacyForChange #EconomicTransparency #ConsumerRights #PolicyChange #UnitedStatesTax #AdvocateForEquity #FinancialReform #SocioeconomicIssues #TaxSystemDebate #FederalReform 🌐💼🔍💡🇺🇸

Turning the anti-bullying conversation around

bully-poster.jpg

You can find this poster here

When we use the word anti-bullying, we are articulating what we don’t want. So in this instance I ask the question … what do we want?

The counter position to bullying is lost in the current conversations, which is the opportunity to recognise preferred behaviour.

It’s easy to be against and say no .. more difficult to be for and say yes
May be it’s time we got clear and created a turnaround in the conversation?

This above quote is an extract of a comment from reader Andrew on my post Is the Mean Mob Mentality Out Of Control.  See footnote

I am confident we will all agree that Andrew makes a very valid point

When you Google ‘Modelling Anti-Bullying Behaviour’ Google Scholar offers a plethora of articles 

Social science research tells us if we craft the message that signals preferred behaviour we get preferred behaviour.

Using an example I saw at boys school I visited in 2016. The sign in the foyer said “65% of men and boys interviewed think domestic violence occurs”

The social scientists tell us this sign models negative behaviour. The ideal sign would say “100% of men think domestic violence is wrong.”

Clearly the image at the top of the post is a great example of modelling preferred behaviour. See article here

Love other readers thoughts on how we rise to challenge that Andrew has posed

Footnote

Andrew’s comment on the original blog

Where I’m coming from is contrarian to many, so please read to the end.
This is not a criticism of what’s happening in general or the posts and comments here.

In grappling with the issue we are faced with in relation to personal attacks in social and mainstream media we need to call out bullying for what it is, and those carrying out that behaviour need to be held to account.

At this time I’m reminded of Sister Teresa of Calcutta.
She was asked to attend an “anti-war” rally, where the proponents would have obviously used her presence to leverage the PR.
Sister Teresa’s response was if you can explain to me what you are for, I’ll consider it.

When we use the word anti-bullying, we are articulating what we don’t want. So in this instance I ask the question … what do we want?

Using Sister Teresa’s framework … if we are anti bullying, what are we for?

The counter position to bullying is lost in the current conversations, which is the opportunity to recognise preferred behaviour.

We know what we don’t want but, have difficulty articulating what we do want.
When training dogs, we reward positive behaviour for the obvious reason, with young children we do the same when it comes to behaviours. Or we should.

So what behaviour do we wish to recognise as it applies to social and mainstream media behaviour?
It’s easy to be against and say no .. more difficult to be for and say yes
May be it’s time we got clear and created a turnaround in the conversation?

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