Free Talk Live

That's another big problem. People can't separate the authority and the people who have the authority vested in them. I think you see that a lot in the demonstrations. Cause actually the people are demonstrating not against Vietnam -- they're demonstrating against the police department. Actually, against policemen. Because they have that concept -- that the law and the law enforcement are one.

Scam School's Brian Brushwood does a TEDx talk wherein he covers a few studies showing people's ingrained obedience to perceived "authority."

Although it is presented from a magic and scam perspective, the studies he brings up are very telling, and representative of the difficulties we face in turning people away from blind obedience to "authority."

It's unfortunate, as relying on perceived "authorities" is likely an evolutionary development, and has benefits, however it is sadly so exploited by those who seek, or are already in, "power."

The temptation to submit to authority examined by "Compliance" bolsters an authoritarian culture by transforming its leading institutions into servants of power rather than checks on it. But worse, it conceals the presence of oppression by ensuring that most citizens, choosing to follow and obey authority, do not personally experience oppression and thus do not believe – refuse to believe – that it really exists.

"We're not talking expanding authority. We're talking about preserving our ability to execute our existing authority in order to protect the public safety and national security."

I will never understand this guy Eric Holder and his desire to control people. First he wants to take away guns, now he wants Obama to sue the state. He says if CA legalizes pot, it would "challenge federal authority". To hell with federal authority!

Port Authority Police Department (PAPD) Sgt. Edwin Rivera earned more than $166,000 last year in overtime pay, more than double his base salary.

The typical American is so conditioned to Authority that he will not even dare to defy a road sign – even when it’s out in the middle of nowhere and there’s essentially zero chance of any repercussions. Anything that looks official, anyone in a uniform of any kind – even if it’s not an official uniform and the wearer has no gun or actual authority to do anything – the average American will, without a murmur, sit quietly – and obey.

FINALLY and thanks to Rudy Giuliani, private security can be purchased that has the full authority of the law. There are still a few details that separate this arrangement from truly voluntarist protection organizations. The officer is indemnified by the taxpayer, not the customer or the customer's insurance. They do have the ability to arrest, though, so it's close.

What is a Federal Reserve Note and how does it serve as the basis for the State's claim to authority? This is a paper I wrote to answer this question. It may not be great material for the show, but I wanted to get the link listed on FTL in case people would like to read it on their own. Thanks!