Not a porpoise but a ...
LightNews LightNews
banner
silverporpoise.bsky.social
Not a porpoise but a ...
@silverporpoise.bsky.social
390 followers 970 following 1.2K posts
Biochemist, protein structure function, organizational engineer, futurist. A Schumpeterian who believes that Carlota Perez' model for Techno-economic Revolutions works best to describe today's world.
https://amanwithaphd.wordpress.com
Posts Replies Media Videos
silverporpoise.bsky.social
The DoD Law of War Manual has an example of an illegal order that ANY member of the Navy would know is illegal. On page 1088, we find:

"For example, orders to fire upon the shipwrecked would be clearly illegal."

They broke the explicit example used in the manual. Everyone involved is guilty..
18.3.2.1 Clearly Illegal Orders to Commit Law of War Violations. The requirement to refuse to comply with orders to commit law of war violations applies to orders to perform conduct that is clearly illegal or orders that the subordinate knows, in fact, are illegal. For example, orders to fire upon the shipwrecked would be clearly illegal.27
November 30, 2025 at 11:37 PM
silverporpoise.bsky.social
plus ça change, plus c'est la même chose. Shooting metaphors hold true 165 years apart. In 1860, the Dems were the conservatives. Now it is the GOP. Conservatives seem to act the same way. Lincoln, in his speech at Cooper Union, the speech that likely made him the Republican candidate, said this:
Your purpose, then, plainly stated, is that you will destroy the Government, unless you be allowed to construe and enforce the Constitution as you please, on all points in dispute between you and us. You will rule or ruin in all events. Under all these circumstances, do you really feel yourselves justified to break up this Government unless such a court decision as yours is, shall be at once submitted to as a conclusive and final rule of political action? But you will not abide the election of a Republican president! In that supposed event, you say, you will destroy the Union; and then, you say, the great crime of having destroyed it will be upon us! That is cool. A highwayman holds a pistol to my ear, and mutters through his teeth, "Stand and deliver, or I shall kill you, and then you will be a murderer!"
October 7, 2025 at 8:56 PM
silverporpoise.bsky.social
Jefferson knew people could be foolish. He discussed what should be done. We might overturn this government's efforts without bloodshed if we step up the protests. Governments fall when 3.5% of the people engage in peaceful protests.
should ever be 20. years without such a rebellion.[1] The people can not be all, and always, well informed. The part which is wrong will be discontented in proportion to the importance of the facts they misconceive. If they remain quiet under such misconceptions it is a lethargy, the forerunner of death to the public liberty. We have had 13. states independant 11. years. There has been one rebellion. That comes to one rebellion in a century and a half for each state. What country before ever existed a century and half without a rebellion? And what country can preserve it’s liberties if their rulers are not warned from time to time that their people preserve the spirit of resistance? Let them take arms. The remedy is to set them right as to facts, pardon and pacify them. What signify a few lives lost in a century or two? The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants. It is it’s natural manure. Our Convention has been too much impressed by the insurrection of Massachusets: and in the spur of the moment they are setting up a kite to keep the hen yard in order. I hope in god this article will be rectified before the new constitution is accepted.[2]
March 2, 2025 at 12:12 AM
silverporpoise.bsky.social
I gave the online version of ChatGPT the following prompt. After listing 20 abuses by Trump, his cabinet, Musk and his associates, it arrived at this conclusion. Try it on your own. Tell your rep to do the same. Have them read it from the House/Senate. History will remember them.
"Modernize the Declaration of Independence of July 4 1776 by substituting President Donald Trump's actions, including the action of Trumps, Cabinet, of Elon Musk and the DOGE, for the British government's. Create a list of abuses based on what he has done since January 20, 2025 and supply actions." In Conclusion: We, the People, do hereby declare our independence from the current administration of President Donald J. Trump and those who perpetuate these abuses of power. We reject a government that prioritizes the interests of the few over the rights and freedoms of the many. We call for a return to a government of the people, by the people, and for the people. Let it be known that the people of this land shall no longer tolerate oppression, inequality, and the exploitation of their rights and freedoms. We demand an immediate cessation of these unjust actions and a restoration of the values upon which our nation was founded.
February 4, 2025 at 6:33 AM
silverporpoise.bsky.social
I gave this to ChatGPT. Someone should read it from the floor of the House or Senate: "Modernize the Declaration of Independence of July 4 1776 by substituting President Donald Trump's actions for the British government's. Create a list of abuses based on what he has done since January 20, 2025."
Asked of ChatGPT by Richard Gayle @silverporpoise.bsky.social on Jan 28, 2025 Modernize the Declaration of Independence of July 4 1776 by substituting President Donald Trump's actions for the British government's. Create a list of abuses based on what he has done since January 20, 2025. The Declaration of Independence (Modernized Version) When, in the course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bonds which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation. We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all people are created equal, and that the government derives its powers from the consent of the governed. However, the current administration under President Donald Trump has repeatedly violated the trust of the people and undermined the very principles upon which this country was founded. To this end, we list the following abuses that justify our decision to seek a break from his administration. Grievances Against President Donald Trump: Manipulation of Electoral Integrity
He has engaged in efforts to undermine the democratic process by falsely claiming election fraud, spreading disinformation about the electoral system, and attempting to overturn results through undemocratic means, threatening the integrity of the voting system itself. Incitement to Violence
He has incited insurrection and violence, contributing to a rise in domestic extremism, as seen in the events surrounding the Capitol riots of 2021, and continued to publicly endorse or minimize violent actions that threaten the peace and security of citizens. Disregard for the Rule of Law
He has repeatedly interfered with investigations and law enforcement, using his position to avoid accountability and undermine the independence of the judiciary. Corruption and Self-Dealing
He has used the office of the presidency to enrich himself and his family through conflicts of interest, including the promotion of his business ventures and acceptance of foreign government aid, thereby placing personal gain over the welfare of the nation. Abuse of Executive Power
He has frequently bypassed Congress and ignored constitutional limits on executive power, issuing executive orders that undermine legislative authority and disregard established laws. Attacks on the Press and Free Speech
He has consistently attacked the free press, calling the media “fake news” and labeling journalists as “enemies of the people,” undermining the fundamental freedom of speech and the press guaranteed by the First Amendment. Discriminatory Policies and Rhetoric
He has promoted and enacted policies that discriminate against marginalized groups, including immigrants, people of color, and LGBTQ+ individuals, while also using divisive language that foments hatred and animosity across communities. Environmental Negligence
He has disregarded scientific consensus and undermined environmental protections, exacerbating climate change, and rolling back regulations intended to protect air, water, and public health, despite overwhelming evidence of their necessity for the long-term well-being of the nation. Undermining International Alliances and Norms
He has consistently alienated traditional allies, weakened the international standing of the U.S., and pulled out of critical international agreements, including those related to climate change and global security, putting American leadership and global stability at risk. Disrespect for Democracy and the Constitution
He has undermined the separation of powers, repeatedly questioning the legitimacy of constitutional institutions and encouraging actions that weaken democratic norms, including attempts to challenge judicial rulings and congressional authority. Weaponizing National Security
He has used national security concerns as a pretext to target political opponents and stifle dissent, suggesting that any opposition to his administration is inherently unpatriotic and deserving of surveillance or legal action. Erosion of Civil Rights
Through numerous executive actions and rhetorical attacks, he has eroded civil rights protections, especially regarding voting rights, the right to peaceful assembly, and the right to protest, thus threatening fundamental freedoms enshrined in the Bill of Rights. Conclusion In light of these repeated and sustained abuses, it is the right and duty of the American people to alter or abolish the government that has failed to protect their rights, liberty, and safety. The abuses listed above demonstrate a pattern of governance that violates the very principles upon which this nation was founded: liberty, equality, and justice for all. We, therefore, declare our intention to separate from the administration of President Donald Trump, seeking the establishment of a new government that will secure the blessings of liberty and justice for ourselves and future generations.
January 30, 2025 at 6:29 AM
silverporpoise.bsky.social
I gave Chatgpt this prompt: "Modernize the Declaration of Independence of July 4 1776 by substituting President Donald Trump's actions for the British's. Create a list of abuses based on what he has done since Jan. 20, 2025." Here's the result. A great start. Impeach him now. Spread this around.
Asked of ChatGPT by Richard Gayle @silverporpoise.bsky.social on Jan 28, 2025 Modernize the Declaration of Independence of July 4 1776 by substituting President Donald Trump's actions for the British government's. Create a list of abuses based on what he has done since January 20, 2025. The Declaration of Independence (Modernized Version) When, in the course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bonds which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation. We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all people are created equal, and that the government derives its powers from the consent of the governed. However, the current administration under President Donald Trump has repeatedly violated the trust of the people and undermined the very principles upon which this country was founded. To this end, we list the following abuses that justify our decision to seek a break from his administration. Grievances Against President Donald Trump: Manipulation of Electoral Integrity
He has engaged in efforts to undermine the democratic process by falsely claiming election fraud, spreading disinformation about the electoral system, and attempting to overturn results through undemocratic means, threatening the integrity of the voting system itself. Incitement to Violence
He has incited insurrection and violence, contributing to a rise in domestic extremism, as seen in the events surrounding the Capitol riots of 2021, and continued to publicly endorse or minimize violent actions that threaten the peace and security of citizens. Disregard for the Rule of Law
He has repeatedly interfered with investigations and law enforcement, using his position to avoid accountability and undermine the independence of the judiciary. Corruption and Self-Dealing
He has used the office of the presidency to enrich himself and his family through conflicts of interest, including the promotion of his business ventures and acceptance of foreign government aid, thereby placing personal gain over the welfare of the nation. Abuse of Executive Power
He has frequently bypassed Congress and ignored constitutional limits on executive power, issuing executive orders that undermine legislative authority and disregard established laws. Attacks on the Press and Free Speech
He has consistently attacked the free press, calling the media “fake news” and labeling journalists as “enemies of the people,” undermining the fundamental freedom of speech and the press guaranteed by the First Amendment. Discriminatory Policies and Rhetoric
He has promoted and enacted policies that discriminate against marginalized groups, including immigrants, people of color, and LGBTQ+ individuals, while also using divisive language that foments hatred and animosity across communities. Environmental Negligence
He has disregarded scientific consensus and undermined environmental protections, exacerbating climate change, and rolling back regulations intended to protect air, water, and public health, despite overwhelming evidence of their necessity for the long-term well-being of the nation. Undermining International Alliances and Norms
He has consistently alienated traditional allies, weakened the international standing of the U.S., and pulled out of critical international agreements, including those related to climate change and global security, putting American leadership and global stability at risk. Disrespect for Democracy and the Constitution
He has undermined the separation of powers, repeatedly questioning the legitimacy of constitutional institutions and encouraging actions that weaken democratic norms, including attempts to challenge judicial rulings and congressional authority. Weaponizing National Security
He has used national security concerns as a pretext to target political opponents and stifle dissent, suggesting that any opposition to his administration is inherently unpatriotic and deserving of surveillance or legal action. Erosion of Civil Rights
Through numerous executive actions and rhetorical attacks, he has eroded civil rights protections, especially regarding voting rights, the right to peaceful assembly, and the right to protest, thus threatening fundamental freedoms enshrined in the Bill of Rights. Conclusion In light of these repeated and sustained abuses, it is the right and duty of the American people to alter or abolish the government that has failed to protect their rights, liberty, and safety. The abuses listed above demonstrate a pattern of governance that violates the very principles upon which this nation was founded: liberty, equality, and justice for all. We, therefore, declare our intention to separate from the administration of President Donald Trump, seeking the establishment of a new government that will secure the blessings of liberty and justice for ourselves and future generations. By the authority of the people, we solemnly declare our independence from this administration, and our resolve to restore the values of democracy, integrity, and accountability to the governance of the United States.
January 29, 2025 at 6:05 AM
silverporpoise.bsky.social
Apple's home page has great quotes from MLK Jr (it is his holiday we celebrate today). And there is an obvious thread running through their choice of quotes:
“The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically.” “You must decide to speak for yourself; nobody else can speak for you.” “We cannot preserve self without being concerned about preserving other selves.”
January 20, 2025 at 11:20 PM
silverporpoise.bsky.social
A reminder: Our Founders knew the danger. Jefferson was worried about a strong central government, with a strong Executive. In a letter from 1787, Jefferson wrote what should be done if a tyrant is elected because the people are misinformed. Read the context of this famous letter.
The people can not be all, and always, well informed. The part which is wrong will be discontented in proportion to the importance of the facts they misconceive. If they remain quiet under such misconceptions it is a lethargy, the forerunner of death to the public liberty. We have had 13. states independant 11. years. There has been one rebellion. That comes to one rebellion in a century and a half for each state. What country before ever existed a century and half without a rebellion? And what country can preserve it’s liberties if their rulers are not warned from time to time that their people preserve the spirit of resistance? Let them take arms. The remedy is to set them right as to facts, pardon and pacify them. What signify a few lives lost in a century or two? The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants. It is it’s natural manure. Our Convention has been too much impressed by the insurrection of Massachusets: and in the spur of the moment they are setting up a kite to keep the hen yard in order. I hope in god this article will be rectified before the new constitution is accepted.
January 8, 2025 at 4:47 AM
silverporpoise.bsky.social
But no one did anything that history will record as heroic. No "Give me liberty..." or "I regret I have but one life..." I would have just loved some 'leader' to stand up and simply ironically state this:
"We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America."
January 7, 2025 at 6:01 AM
silverporpoise.bsky.social
Mythic Quest showed how to deal with Nazis – lure them into a space where they attack peaceful people, then move them all over to their own server space. Kinda looks like we are seeing that as Twitter becomes the Nazi's own special place, leaving the peaceful ones to enjoy BSKY, and blocking Nazis..
The Mythic Quest team learns that their game has become an online hangout for Nazis, and attempt to fix their public relations issue. Ian resists an outright ban of Nazis, while Brad, C.W., and David try to determine what types of people should be removed from the game. Poppy releases a new part of the game called Dinner Party, which allows like-minded users to meet and talk. During an in-game anti-Nazi rally, the Nazis use Dinner Party to meet one another and destroy the rally. Poppy and Ian realize that Dinner Party allowed them to see every player who identifies as a Nazi, and move them to an isolated server.
January 1, 2025 at 6:46 AM
silverporpoise.bsky.social
Thomas Jefferson, in his letter to William Smith in 1787, described what should be done with a lying tyrant who wished to hold power indefinitely. What he describes sounds like today, showing that basic human actions transcend time. How should a misled people deal with a lying ruler? Resist.
The people can not be all, and always, well informed. The part which is wrong will be discontented in proportion to the importance of the facts they misconceive. If they remain quiet under such misconceptions it is a lethargy, the forerunner of death to the public liberty. We have had 13. states independant 11. years. There has been one rebellion. That comes to one rebellion in a century and a half for each state. What country before ever existed a century and half without a rebellion? And what country can preserve it’s liberties if their rulers are not warned from time to time that their people preserve the spirit of resistance? Let them take arms. The remedy is to set them right as to facts, pardon and pacify them. What signify a few lives lost in a century or two? The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants. It is it’s natural manure. Our Convention has been too much impressed by the insurrection of Massachusets: and in the spur of the moment they are setting up a kite to keep the hen yard in order. I hope in god this article will be rectified before the new constitution is accepted.
December 8, 2024 at 5:31 AM
silverporpoise.bsky.social
Quote from Lincoln's Cooper Union Speech. What does the South want? Will nothing satisfy them? Why are they complaining since the Dred Scott decision was a big win? Because they want the North to agree with them. Not just let them win but agree with them.

Sound familiar.
The question recurs, what will satisfy them? Simply this: We must not only let them alone, but we must somehow, convince them that we do let them alone. This, we know by experience, is no easy task. We have been so trying to convince them from the very beginning of our organization, but with no success. In all our platforms and speeches we have constantly protested our purpose to let them alone; but this has had no tendency to convince them. Alike unavailing to convince them, is the fact that they have never detected a man of us in any attempt to disturb them. These natural, and apparently adequate means all failing, what will convince them? This, and this only: cease to call slavery wrong, and join them in calling it right. And this must be done thoroughly - done in acts as well as in words. Silence will not be tolerated - we must place ourselves avowedly with them. Senator Douglas' new sedition law must be enacted and enforced, suppressing all declarations that slavery is wrong, whether made in politics, in presses, in pulpits, or in private. We must arrest and return their fugitive slaves with greedy pleasure. We must pull down our Free State constitutions. The whole atmosphere must be disinfected from all taint of opposition to slavery, before they will cease to believe that all their troubles proceed from us.
November 17, 2024 at 7:11 AM