Goodness

"Liberals think people are good. Libertarians think people are rational. Alas." Neither is the case.

I couldn't continue as libertarian because it was just too irresponsible. The self-interest part is easy, but the other? -- not so much.

Liberals end up using force to coerce goodness; because force is antithetical to their theory, they don't know how to use it wisely. Communism in action. Great sounding theories, aren't they. Alas, reality is so harsh with theories.

So how will good ever be done in the world, if mankind is neither good nor rational? There is no process of goodness. It's almost arbitrary -- it requires wisdom. Sometimes the answer is yes, and sometimes it is no. Answer a fool according to his folly, and answer not a fool according to his folly. Some children need gentleness, and some need firmness. Wisdom discerns.

How can we do good in the world? One act at a time.

Marvin Olasky documented this thoroughly in his superb The Tragedy of American Compassion.

Personal generosity is a virtue. Impersonal generosity is a bureaucracy. Money is for increasing happiness. If it doesn't bring happiness, it hasn't been spent properly. Spend it on yourself, past a certain point, and it's no longer about happiness, but about money. Use it where it's needed, and deserts blossom.

(From FORGOTTEN PROPHETS blog.)