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Monday, September 6, 2010
Truth Telling, Why So Revolutionary?
George Orwell, stated; "In a time of universal deceit, telling the truth is a revolutionary act."
One might think that in America, that truth telling would not be a revolutionary act. But think again. How many times have those in power lied and deceived the people? The ex-Mayor of Detroit is serving time in a federal prison for lying under oath, and then concealing his assets in an attempt to avoid paying restitution. New York and Illinois politicians have gone down in major scandals. Corporate officers (witness, the financial crisis) are repeatedly found having skirted the rules and perpetuating fraud on the public. Politicians are so distrusted that most expect that they will either lie or break their campaign promises as a matter of course. The mainstream media is also distrusted; and bloggers, well, they are an interesting lot to say the least. Scandals involving the religious authorities hiding monstrous crimes keep erupting.
Americans deserve better.
But America will only receive better when the public refuses to countenance the lies and those accountable take the truth seriously.
Over the last several years, I have tried to enforce the oath in courtroom by independently pursuing contempt of court for perjury - and have succeeded. Although a modest effort, it can serve as a model for others in the courtroom and elsewhere.
Although it will not be easy, it will be worth the effort - after all, the truth will set you free.
One might think that in America, that truth telling would not be a revolutionary act. But think again. How many times have those in power lied and deceived the people? The ex-Mayor of Detroit is serving time in a federal prison for lying under oath, and then concealing his assets in an attempt to avoid paying restitution. New York and Illinois politicians have gone down in major scandals. Corporate officers (witness, the financial crisis) are repeatedly found having skirted the rules and perpetuating fraud on the public. Politicians are so distrusted that most expect that they will either lie or break their campaign promises as a matter of course. The mainstream media is also distrusted; and bloggers, well, they are an interesting lot to say the least. Scandals involving the religious authorities hiding monstrous crimes keep erupting.
Americans deserve better.
But America will only receive better when the public refuses to countenance the lies and those accountable take the truth seriously.
Over the last several years, I have tried to enforce the oath in courtroom by independently pursuing contempt of court for perjury - and have succeeded. Although a modest effort, it can serve as a model for others in the courtroom and elsewhere.
Although it will not be easy, it will be worth the effort - after all, the truth will set you free.
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