Declarations of Pride

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PA 05 -- Matt Shaner & The Audacity of Cash
2008-04-07 20:30:00
I have read so many letters in the CDT that defend the obnoxious level of personal wealth Matt Shaner has committed to his election bid at PA 05. So many offer defense of the candidate in the ilk of he "puts his money where his mouth is."I am not so sure I agree.It seems to me that a vote for Shaner is a vote for 4 more years of Bush policy.Shaners approach to every policy position is that Bush knows what he is doing, and he will "fight" to "build that fence," "make the tax cuts permanent"...and so on. I have to wonder if there is an original play in his strategy book, or if every political thought he has was authored by either George W. Bush or Rick Santorum? It seems his two political accomplishments are limited to the service of these two ridiculously unpopular political extremists. He speaks their talking points like they are a gospel for those that must be lead. Shaner's priorities seem to be vastly out of touch with the realities of our nation problems. That is why I wond...
More About: Cash , Audacity

PA Voters: Obama Plays Dirty Too
2008-04-01 20:38:00
Seems that Presidential candidate Barack Obama is just as capable of stretching the truth as his rival Hillary Clinton. Some might say that he is playing "Washington" politics?From FactCheck.org: Obama's Oil SpillThe question is if Barack is lying by saying "I don't take money from oil companies" in his latest TV ad in Pennsylvania.Well, as a direct contribution he doesn't. NO ONE CAN in a Federal election! That was made law in 1907!!!But he has taken money from organized groups of employees of oil companies. In fact, as it turns out he has taken over $30K from ExxonMobil.I just saw him speak of this on Sunday, and how he was above the "Washington" version of politics. I didn't believe him completely then, and now it seems that might have been with good reason.Don't get me wrong, that comment is not to say that Hillary's hands are in any way clean. But they are both politicians, and that is at the core. Neither is a Knight in shining armor! And if you believe that eit...
More About: Dirty , Plays , Voters

Joe Paterno Resigns!
2008-04-01 17:56:00
JoePa Calls It QuitsJay To Take OverUniversity Park, PA - April 1, 2008 - It was announced today that Penn State football coach Joe Paterno will retire following the annual Blue/White Game on April 19th. Accordingly to a source at the University, contract talks between the coach and University President Graham Spanier broke down on Sunday. Late yesterday, Paterno handed in his resignation, effective April 20, 2008. Although Paterno's contract runs through the 2008 season, Paterno took a $20,000 payout to end his tenure in April rather than at the end of the year.Paterno stated to his wife Sue, according to a source "That money will come in handy."Joe's son Jay Paterno will replace his father as coach on April 20. According to sources, Jay has received a 5-year contract that will pay him $5 million per year, plus a built-in bonus of $7 million/year if the team wins six games in one season. In addition, wins against Coastal Carolina or Temple will generate an additional $1 bonus for...
More About: Football , Pennsylvania

Obama at Penn State & Finally...My Choice of Nominee
2008-03-31 22:45:00
From his lips to my ears and this screen.I was moved by the tremendous turn out. According to the CDT, Barack Obama drew a crowd in excess of 22,000 to the lawn of Old Main on Sunday. The lines were spectacular, and like the Clinton rally on Thursday, were peppered with every age, color, and creed you could conceive of. I was particularly excited to see high school aged kids not only in attendance, but actively in support of a candidate! That is a true inspiration for a person like me who has lost some faith in the voting populace of America.As a standing crowd, it was easier to see the skeptics around you. In fact, one guy behind me was a clear Dumbya supporter, and was none-to-pleased with the words of Barack. He wasn't belligerent in any way, but his anger & objections were clear in his face and his shaking head. I still haven't figured out why this young man, or others like him bothered to attend this rally?In any event, it was a spectacular rally for the Senator.As...
More About: Hillary Clinton , Hope , State

WE ARE...In Hillary Clinton Country!
2008-03-28 04:43:00
At least for tonight...Bill Clinton was amazing! He showed himself every bit the great orator that we all knew he was from the start. He listed, explained, and challenged the audience on why they should vote for Hillary . He was skillful, passionate, and carefully controlled...Mesmerizing!It was a sold out house! I know one of the TV stations tonight said 4K were in attendance, and that was vastly off the mark. Rec Hall holds some 7K seated, and tonight we had seats full, floor full, and the running track encircling the upper level of the room -- Full!It was amazing to me to see so many, and of so many ages, races, & creeds in line (in a cold rain) to hear Bill Clinton speak in support of his wife's candidacy.Was it moving? You bet!Was it enlightening? Absolutely!Did it solidify my vote for Hillary? Just about.I believe Hillary has the goods on Health care -- All must be covered FIRST to take charge of cost.I believe Hillary has the goods for the LGBT community -- Overturning al...
More About: Country , Hillary Clinton

Bill Clinton to visit Penn State March 27th!
2008-03-26 20:15:00
I can't say I am decided at the moment, and as such, am eager to see Barack if and when he should make an appearance in State College.In the mean time I have RSVP'd for this event with former President Bill Clinton . He will be at Rec Hall at 8pm on Thursday night. The campaign office says it is "first come, first serve" and advise appearing early to get good seats as they expect it to be well attended. Officially it is scheduled from 8pm to 10pm.On an aside, I am already tired of the TV ads! What happened to the glory days when the PA vote didn't matter, and I didn't have to endure ads until the general election?
More About: Hillary Clinton , March

PA 05 Matt Shaner: Worst.Candidate.Ever.
2008-03-26 17:55:00
Anyone that has come to this site via Google knows my opinion of Matt Shaner.I think he is the worst candidate in the race to represent Pennsylvania District 5 as a Congressman.He seems woefully ill prepared, completely disconnected from the common voter, and incapable of sound judgement. But that's just my opinion.Why should anyone in PA Congressional District 5 vote for a person who:Drops out of college, yet manages to become President of a family corporation that allows him to make enough money to spend $720,000 personally on his bid for Congress. Now the money doesn't bother me. It's the people who spin this into a declaration of "passion" for the political process and his personal beliefs. Fair enough, but his beliefs are part of the problem! His vision is a more focused version of his mentor Rick Santorum. And we all know what happened to Rick! It seems to me that the Shaner corporation has much to gain from having a family member in Congress. This extremely wealthy...
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PA 05 -- GOP Candidate Matt Shaner Flush with Cash
2008-03-07 00:18:00
He's got the money, but he's poor in candidacy.District 05 House Seat Contender, Matt Shaner may be short of common sense, compassion for the heritage of America, or a degree to prove his commitment to his own education...But he does have this: Tons of Cash !Today the "CDT reported that Shaner, the heir apparent of the Shaner fortune has exceeded $350,000 in personal financing expenditures on his campaign to win the 5th district seat soon to be vacated by Rep John Peterson.The good news, is that even though Mr Shaner has tons of assets to spend, no amount of money will change the fact that he evaded the law to only later admit he had no business drinking and driving. (By the way, several of my friends in town have spotted him continuing to get hammered in local bars (pickles & champs)). (Hows about a pic of his staff drinking at the head-quarters when he ran for sate house?)I find this especially telling when Shaner is running as "Mr Family Values" and has a very pregnant wif...
More About: Pennsylvania , Flush , Candidate

Obama Momentum...Stopped! Texas called for Hillary!
2008-03-05 06:51:00
Call me a waffler...But I wanted to see the voter message today, and I was going to let it give some direction to my voting.Seems that voters are once again gravitating to experience vs. inspiration.I feel that way too.I know Obama can fix this country, but I think that Hillary WILL fix this country.So...At this moment the PA Gay is going for Hillary!
More About: Texas , Momentum

Marriage Reality vs. Faith-Based Myths
2008-03-01 19:57:00
First of all, let us be clear, the idea of romance in marriage is new.It is quaint.It's cute.And it is completely irrelevant to the discussion. This construct is strictly a legal & civil contract with the government as its backer. Laws and the government care little about love, and who loves whom...Again, until recently. Therein lays the need for discussion and revelation. We live in a land drowning in her own Puritan heritage while swimming joyfully in a selective recollection of faith and marriage and a blinding ignorance of the rules of law and what it means to be an American.The Church, no matter which you choose, is nothing more than a window dressing on a legal contact. You can go to any religious organization to request a wedding (notice not "marriage" but a "wedding") ceremony. That organization can, and often does, at its own discretion either accept your request or deny it. That's because churches deal with parishioners of like beliefs. Whereas governments (at least...
More About: Marriage , Reality , Faith , Myths

My Friend Kevin in Texas will Vote Obama
2008-02-29 21:52:00
And much to the joy of many a reader, I am leaning that way too.Here's another Obama video by someone from the Black-Eyed Peas (I had no idea they did the previous ones! I'm so out of touch! Or... OLD!).http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ghSJ sEVf0pUIf you don't have a tingling spine by about 42 seconds into it, then... well, you'll probably exit out of the video by the end anyway.And here's Clinton's latest Texas ad:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M70emIF xETsYour choice: Hope or Fear.I. Choose. Hope. And that is how I will be voting on Tuesday: Hope over Fear. Progress over More of the Same. Forward over Backward. Unity over Division. Belief over Doubt. Optimism over Skepticism. Passion over Hopelessness, Lifting Up over Oppression, Cooperation over Partisanship, Faith over Distrust, Courage over Anxiety.I've expressed my support for Clinton in the past. But I'm tired of being told how I should vote because I should vote my fear. And Clinton's not painti...
More About: Hillary Clinton , Friend , Vote

Am I a Flip-flopper? Hillary to Obama...To Hillary...To Obama again!
2008-02-27 23:50:00
I don't know if that dubious distinction fits me, but waffler seems to!I must admit I am drawn to both of these candidates. I saw no clear winner last night on the debates.I did see Hillary become shrill and obnoxious about health care, and I found that to be a turn off. Sad, as I do see her plan for so-called "universal care" to be stronger on merits and actual strategy. On this she annoyed me.I did see Barack take the now familiar tactic of "we are mostly the same" or "I agree with Senator Clinton" which I have grown tired of. I can see where people can get the "no original thoughts" critiques from. That annoyed me with him.I see so little difference in the positions of either as to wonder what all the fuss is about; but with complete understanding for why they have been so evenly matched to date.In the absence of distinctions of merit, these candidates are virtually identical, but for one major thing: Barack has not stooped to the level of mud slinging, and Hillary has dirt...
More About: Obama , Flip

...And I disapprove of this message
2008-02-26 06:29:00
That's how I feel about the recent turn in the message from Hillary.I thought her so much better than to use smear to win the White House. That is a tactic I expect from BushCo to win, not a Democrat I have heretofore supported.I am not sure what to think.What I do know is that national polls pitting her against Senator Flip-flop McCain are showing a dead tie. That is not the case when you put him against Obama. As it turns out, electability may matter more than experience or a plan. If she is to lose to Barack, I wish she would do it in a dignified manner, and not by way of what seems to be unfolding today. We expect more of our leaders than this.
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Standing Ovation...It Ain't Over 'til it's over!
2008-02-22 21:17:00
Just yesterday, I came out on here as feeling that Hillary was mostly done for.Well, I am still not whole heartedly optimistic about her future as our President, but last night she brought the auditorium to it's feet!I would have proudly and enthusiastically stood with them. She hit it out of the park. She was presidential, she was humble, and she was human.She has the goods, the experience, and the political savvy to fix this nation.Irrespective of what you think of Bill, or any number of reasons you may have to dislike her, when it comes to leadership and experience...She has Barack Obama beat hands down.This is going to be another election where likability is going to win over actual resume, and even though I am inspired by the potential change in direction of the nation, that is still a sad state for America.From the transcript: CLINTON: Well, I think everybody here knows I've lived through somecrises and some challenging moments in my life. And...(APPLAUSE)And I am gr...
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Obama: The wave that will sweep the rest away
2008-02-20 22:31:00
Is anyone surprised by the Wisconsin vote?No one is surprised by Hawaii.I venture that fewer and fewer will be shocked by the building voter momentum of the front runner to soon sweep through Texas & Ohio. Barack's polling shortfalls continue to narrow in these states as his electoral momentum continues to sweep him ever closer to the nomination.I have given Senator Clinton money, and wish she would win, but there comes a time when you have to realize that you have not bet the odds, and like it or not, the other horse is going to win. I think we are at that moment. I will be shocked to see anything different at this point in the race.I think his momentum will only continue to grow, especially with the new specter of lobbyist inappropriate by Senator McCain. True or not, perception is that he had an inappropriate relationship (fiscal or physical?) with a telecom lobbyist. This will only create a stronger spotlight on Obama and his clear history of staying clear of special in...
More About: Congress , Rest , Wave , Sweep

Clinton leads Obama in Pennsylvania & Ohio
2008-02-14 18:43:00
Not that anyone is shocked by this revelation from MSNBC.She still has my vote in PA. She still has my partner's vote in PA.I still say her plans for America are much more detailed, well thought out, and clearly articulated on paper and in words.I still believe that Barack will be a fine President, and if he gets the nomination, I will vote for him enthusiastically, but my bets are on Hillary! I am not sure she will win the nomination, but I will do what I can to help her.She will hit the ground running as President, and the Democratic party will fall in line behind her if she is elected. I am confident in her abilities to lead. I am confident in her credentials. I have faith in her.I can't claim these things as enthusiastically for Senator Obama .For me, words are not enough to win. Speeches are fine, and in Obama's case they are awesome. But they are just words, and in this critical time, we need actions, and plans to implement them. Moreover, it seems that more and more...
More About: Ohio , Barack Obama , Hillary Clinton , Leads

Why We Fight?
2008-02-11 23:28:00
This was a wise question posed on BlogActive that I choose to respond to, and will now elaborate on before throwing it out there to the class.This question of "why we fight" has been churning in my head.As in many a post on this blog, I have proven again and again that I come to fight for what is mine to claim. I feel my American soul quite keenly, and anything that threatens my deep patriotism for the petty gains of a politician, the rhetorical masturbation of the masses, or the mis-education of Americans by way of the media, a church , or a President creates a rage in me that is only quieted when I fully exercise my right to freedom of expression.I fight because I am offended.I fight because I am true to our Founders.I fight because that is what is needed of me.I fight because I am attacked.But really my fight is not so much a punch as a lesson. I fight against ignorance in America. Ignorance of country, God, and equality. That is my fight. As a gay and faithful man in Americ...
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PA 05 -- Filing Deadline February 12, 2008
2008-02-11 22:47:00
This is the field as it looks today. On Wednesday we will see who is left.7 Republicans, 3 Democrats and 1 Green Party.Chris Exarchos (R) Ex-Centre County Commissioner, Ex-College Township Councilman & Businessman Lou Radkowski (R) Elk County CoronerMatt Shaner (R) Hotel DeveloperJeff Stroehmann (R) Ex-Woodward Township Supervisor & BusinessmanJohn Stroup (R) Clarion MayorG.T. Thompson (R) Centre County GOP Chair & Nursing Home AdministratorDerek Walker (R) Financial Consultant Bill Cahir (D) Newspaper Reporter & Iraq War Veteran Mike McCracken (D) Clearfield County Commiss...
More About: Pennsylvania , Deadline , February , 2008

Hillary Says Gays are Equal Citizens
2008-02-11 21:07:00
Hillary has come out, once again, in strong support of my relationship.In an article published today:She repeated her call for a repeal of Section 3 of DOMA, because it prohibits the federal government from recognizing decisions made by the states in terms of enacting civil unions, domestic partnerships or, in the case of Massachusetts, full marriage rights. ?I think extending federal benefits is a very important step forward,? she said. ?I don?t see why a same-sex couple in California, which has a domestic partnership law, should be able to take advantage of the Family Medical Leave Act if one of them is ill, while a couple in another state without such a law cannot. ?I would like to see federal benefits extended to same-sex couples that meet certain standards of commitment regardless of the state in which they reside. Too many couples cannot share life decisions, or jointly own property or take care of one another within a recognized legal framework. I want to change that.? Hill...
More About: Barack Obama , Hillary Clinton , Gays , Equal , Hillary

Barack -- It Comes Down to Faith for me
2008-02-11 19:44:00
Wow...I have taken some flack for supporting Hillary.None of it is angry. Some of it has been pleading.One thing is for sure, those that love Barack Obama , really love their candidate.The Hillary objections are the same ones that are always stated; mostly that she is too divisive, even within her own party. I can't say that I disagree on this point at all. I just see it a bit differently. I see that divisiveness as earned! She is battle tested. She has experience on her side, and that experience in the realm of politics leads to friends AND enemies.Lord knows that the Clinton's have made plenty of enemies.But that is why I see her has the instrument for change in America.I see her as really able to hit the ground running, whereas I believe Barack might have to spend some time finding his way. Now that may or may not be accurate, but it's no truer than the assertion that Hillary will fail because so many "hate her."The nation is united in the desire for change. Well, mostly. Those...
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If the "Flip-Flop" fits; McCain will wear it -- Ethanol
2008-02-08 22:22:00
Senator McCain has a long history of hate for Ethanol , especially as it relates to subsidising farmers production of corn.Well, when you are campaigning in Iowa, that's not a very popular position to take...So McCain turned hard right.In 2006, McCain was fitted for a size 10 Flip -Flop made of ethanol. That's when he decided to reverse himself, and support something he has long opposed.Loser. It's no wonder they "boooo" when you speak.
More About: Wear , Flip Flop

I will cast my vote for...
2008-02-07 20:12:00
I will cast my vote for...me.After much careful consideration, I have come to a decision on which of the Democrats will be getting my primary vote: Hillary Clinton .No, I am not a fan of her version of "universal health care" but it is way better than what is proposed by Barack. I am a fan of her fiscal policy. I am a HUGE fan of her support of the gay community and my relationship. Hillary as President might mean that we will finally be legally protected in exactly the same way as others that are allowed to marry in this country. That is reason enough for me...But that's not the only reason. She has a controlled and reasoned approach to Iraq. She knows what to do to reform our alliances abroad, something Barack is naive about. I love his rhetroric...I just can't find the substance behind it to back it up; and believe me, I have looked.Now, having said that, I am a huge fan of the "Dream Ticket" with Hillary as President, and Barack as VP. I see that as 16 years of democrat...
More About: Barack Obama , Vote , Cast

Universal Health Care -- A Universal Myth
2008-02-05 22:49:00
I am in support of both Barack Obama & Hillary Clinton for President of the United States of America. I think either will do a magnificent job in this position.Yes, I think one will attempt more radical change, than the other.Yes, I think one brings more experience to the position from day one.Yes, I think both have baggage that will haunt them right to the day of the election, and beyond.These are very big historical shoes that they are trying to fill. The pressure for those who are either female or African-American, perhaps both, with aspirations of some day leading this nation; all those future hopes lie in the hands of these two and how they deliver on promises in this highly challenging coming term.Where I don't support either of them is on so-called "Universal Health care."This label, "universal" is lobbed around as nothing more than a political hot button. Well it lands cold in my lap! Neither of them is proposing something that is "universal." Neither will offer gu...
More About: Health Care , Care

If the "Flip-Flop" Fits; McCain will wear it -- Torture
2008-02-05 22:38:00
Remember when Senator McCain, our only "true American hero," was adamant against torture? Remember when he spoke of his own experience? Remember how passionate he was about this position?Remember when he completely reversed himself and gave in to White House demands?!This is not the flip-flop of a "hero," it's the cheap pandering of a man with no political spine.Talk about someone who cares about polls and public opinion.This "flip-flop" is a size 9, and I think it fits him perfectly!
More About: Torture , Wear , Flip , Flip Flop

Anticipation...
2008-02-05 20:40:00
Will we learn anything today?Will this nation move bravely toward change, or seek out the alleged security of experience?Will division continue to rule, or will unity in our divisions cause a Revolution?I hope America is paying attention to the candidates, not the party of the candidates. It is time for change.It is time for something NEW!Here's hoping that Obama has a good showing today.
More About: Barack Obama , Mitt Romney , Super Tuesday

Matt Shaner -- "Supports Traditional Values & The Rule of Law"
2008-02-05 01:13:00
This comes directly from his website, under "on the issues."I find it incredibly entertaining that this man sees himself in "support the rule of law" when he has thus far shown himself as one bent on circumventing it.Remember when he called the DA in State College to ask him how to evade the police knocking on his door? You know, just after wrecking his car in an apparent drunk driving crash?What a joke.And then there is this bit of lunacy from his page(Did Rick Santorum write this for him?):Protecting the timeless tradition of marriage as a union between one man and one womanPromoting a culture of lifeProtecting the rights of law-abiding gun ownersLet the insanity begin. Please Pennsylvania , pay attention to this man. He is dangerous to our future. His ideals are those of the failed Rick Santorum. Remember how we sent that guy packing? Lets not embarrass ourselves again by electing someone the likes of Matt Shaner.I don't believe he isn't in this for you, or for me. He's ...
More About: District , Values , Rule

If The Flip-Flop Fits...McCain Will Wear It!
2008-02-01 22:39:00
As we are mired knee deep in Hillary-Obama love, I think I will take a moment to remind all who consider McCain a viable option that he is well less than perfect.If you vote GOP, are thinking in terms of McCain, and loved the Flip -Flop stuff for Kerry, then you should be equally accepting of the realities of Senator McCain.Though, I have to say, I am over the Flip-flop thing. Clearly, this remotely clever term isn't as good as the more descriptively accurate "Two-Faced" persona of this ultimate politician.He will say whatever it takes to win, and is hoping that none of you are paying attention long enough to remember what he said in the past. Not to worry. I'll remember for you.Think I am making this up? Don't believe me?Fine...Let's start with a big one then:1999 -- While pursuing the nomination, he told reporters in New Hampshire:told reporters that ?in the short term, or even the long term, I would not support repeal of Roe v. Wade.? He explained that overturning Roe woul...
More About: Wear , Flip Flop

Arlen Specter -- Lost Sight Of The Real Ball
2008-02-01 19:44:00
Arlen Specter has decided that this is his national priority."I am very concerned about the underlying facts on the taping, the reasons for the judgment on the limited penalties and, most of all, on the inexplicable destruction of the tapes," said Sen. Arlen Specter, R-Pa., in a Thursday letter to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell.I want to know why they squawk box that is my state Senator isn't as "concerned" about the destroyed emails of the White House? Why isn't he as "concerned" by the illegal spying of the government on US citizens? Why isn't he "very concerned" about a President that repeatedly breaks the law? Why isn't he "very concerned" about the business of this nation, especially as it relates to his prominent position on the Senate Judiciary Committee?Specter goes on to give lip service to these other matters, implying he is "concerned" about them too. The reality is that he is yet another rubber-stamp for the Bush Administration. He makes the waves of objection, ...
More About: Lost , New England Patriots , Super Bowl , Arlen Specter , Pennsylvania

What's Your Position? Don't Vote Your Gut, Vote Your Brain!
2008-01-31 22:48:00
Below you will find several sources of information on the 2008 Presidential candidates. Before you commit to one, or even if you already have, I encourage you to challenge your choice by way of rational exploration of the facts. You might be surprised by who you choose if you take the time to investigate the reality of your priorities versus theirs.I thought these tools were interesting and helpful.See what you think?Compare your policy priorities to those of the candidates for President with these tools:1 -- Advocates Quiz2 -- Select Smart3 -- WMUR -- Commitment 20084 -- Vote USA.org5 -- VoteMatch6 -- NY Times Election Guide7 -- BankRate.com -- Compare Candidates on Money8 -- Science & Technology in 2008 Election -- Candidate Comparison9 -- TaxFoundation.org -- Compare Candidates on Tax Policy10 -- Health08.org -- Kaiser Family Side-by-side Comparison of Candidate Position s11 -- Election 08 Energy Policy12 -- Candidates on Iraq Policy13 -- AFLCIO Candidate Comparison14 -- Demo...
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And So It Begins...With Thoughts From FactCheck
2008-01-30 00:30:00
Let the ride to informed voting begin!Please note the redesign of the page to accommodate links relative to reliable and verifiable information.I will share information as I come across it.In the mean time, check this out from Fact Check ...I think it speaks to why I am doing this (again)... A Process for Avoiding Deception Keep an open mind. Most of us have biases, and we can easily fool ourselves if we don?t make a conscious effort to keep our minds open to new information. Psychologists have shown over and over again that humans naturally tend to accept any information that supports what they already believe, even if the information isn?t very reliable. And humans also naturally tend to reject information that conflicts with those beliefs, even if the information is solid. These predilections are powerful. Unless we make an active effort to listen to all sides we can become trapped into believing something that isn?t so, and won?t even know it.Ask the r...
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