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Comment Global (Score 1) 105

We are a GLOBAL economy that is based on information. Call it Post Industrial. Information moves at the speed of light.

Pretending we Americans live in a giant castle surrounded by a huge Moat (aka Oceans) isn't going to protect us from what is happening elsewhere. Offshoring is going to kill our economy.

We have a dying generation who still sees the economy as post WWII, because that is the world we grew up in (Last of the boomers here).

We had better get used to it. Build things better, faster, cheaper.

Comment Re: As a proud American of Indian origin... (Score 1) 231

We tend to be centrist, and are used to a multiparty system. We also assimilate tend to assimilate well enough to do what (we think) is best for the country practically at the time, rather than be overly biased.

Case in point: I supported Obama back then. Postt Biden, I thought Trmp would be a better choice for the American economy.

Comment Re:Can you imagine needing government permission (Score 1) 105

I dunno. China is a "market socialist" system -- which is a contradiction in terms. If China is socialist, then for practical purposes Norway and Sweden have to be even *more* socialist because they have a comprehensive public welfare system which China lacks. And those Nordic countries are rated quite high on global measures of political and personal freedom, and very low on corruption. In general they outperform the US on most of those measures, although the US is better on measures of business deregulation.

Comment Re: 200 million angry, single disaffected young m (Score 1) 105

It makes no sense to claim Chinese courts have a lot of power, although it may seem that way â" itâ(TM)s supposed to seem that way. One of the foundational principles of Chinese jurisprudence is party supremacy. Every judge is supervised by a PLC â" party legal committee â" which oversees budgets, discipline and assignments in the judiciary. They consult with the judges in sensitive trials to ensure a politically acceptable outcome.

So it would be more accurate to characterize the courts as an instrument of party power rather than an independent power center.

From time to time Chinese court decisions become politically inconvenient, either through the supervisors in the PLC missing something or through changing circumstances. In those cases there is no formal process for the party to make the courts revisit the decision. Instead the normal procedure is for the inconvenient decision to quietly disappear from the legal databases, as if it never happened. When there is party supremacy, the party can simply rewrite judicial history to its current needs.

An independent judiciary seems like such a minor point; and frankly it is often an impediment to common sense. But without an independent judiciary you canâ(TM)t have rule of law, just rule by law.

Comment Re: 200 million angry, single disaffected young me (Score 1) 105

Hereâ(TM)s the problem with that scenario: court rulings donâ(TM)t mean much in a state ruled by one party. China has plenty of progressive looking laws that donâ(TM)t get enforced if it is inconvenient to the party. There are emission standards for trucks and cars that should help with their pollution problems, but there are no enforcement mechanisms and officials have no interest in creating any if it would interfere with their economic targets or their private interests.

China is a country of strict rules and lax enforcement, which suits authoritarian rulers very well. It means laws are flouted routinely by virtually everyone, which gives the party leverage. Displease the party, and they have plenty of material to punish you, under color of enforcing laws. It sounds so benign, at least theyâ(TM)re enforcing the law part of the time, right? Wrong. Laws selectively enforced donâ(TM)t serve any public purpose; theyâ(TM)re just instruments of personal power.

Americans often donâ(TM)t seem to understand the difference between rule of law and rule *by* law. Itâ(TM)s ironic because the American Revolution and constitution were historically important in establishing the practicality of rule of law, in which political leaders were not only expected to obey the laws themselves, but had a duty to enforce the law impartially regardless of their personal opinions or interests.

Rule *by* law isnâ(TM)t a Chinese innovation, it was the operating principle for every government before 1789. A government that rules *by* law is only as good as the men wielding power, and since power corrupts, itâ(TM)s never very good for long.

Comment Re: Hinduism starts with a question, not a dogma (Score 1) 153

https://www.perplexity.ai/sear...

explain in detail, Hinduism as the oldest living Dharmic tradition, with parallels to the "open source" software movement. The target auidence being a typical westener familiar only with organized proselytizing invasive Abrahamic religions such as Islam & Christianity spread by the sword. Deep Research and include detailed citations in report

explain in detail, Hinduism as the oldest living Dharmic tradition, with parallels to the "open source" software movement. The target auidence being a typical westener familiar only with organized proselytizing invasive Abrahamic religions such as Islam & Christianity spread by the sword. Deep Research and include detailed citations in report

**Hinduism is frequently recognized as the oldest living Dharmic tradition and stands apart from Abrahamic religions by emphasizing pluralism, flexibility, and decentralized spiritual practiceâ"an ethos strikingly similar to the âoeopen sourceâ software movement**[1][2][3][4][5].

## Hinduism: Oldest Living Dharmic Tradition

Hinduismâ(TM)s roots precede recorded history, tracing back over 4,000 years to the Indus Valley civilization and Vedic texts[1][2][5]. Unlike Abrahamic religionsâ"Judaism, Christianity, and Islamâ"which were founded by specific prophets, Hinduism lacks a single founder or central authority[6][3]. It is known by its adherents as *SanÄtana Dharma* (âoeeternal lawâ)â"a continuous philosophical tradition that integrates many beliefs, texts, and rituals across cultures[1][4]. Hindu teachings, preserved in a vast array of texts like the Vedas, Upanishads, and Puranas, encapsulate concepts of karma, reincarnation, dharma, and moksha[1][6][4].

## Parallel to âoeOpen Sourceâ Movement

Hinduismâ(TM)s evolution mirrors open source principles. Just as open source software welcomes collaborative modification and adaptation, Hinduism encourages personal spiritual exploration and reinterpretation[7][8][9][10]. There is no âoeone-size-fits-allâ doctrinal pathâ"diverse practices (bhakti, karma, jnana, meditation, ritual) are all accepted as valid[7][8]. Communities throughout India and beyond follow different customs, and philosophies develop organically through dialogue and debate, much like open source code forks and merges[7][8][10]. Throughout its history, Hinduism has absorbed influences from other traditions (Buddhism, Jainism, even elements of Islam and Christianity) without losing its inherent pluralism[11][7][8].

## Contrasts with Abrahamic Religions

Abrahamic religions are characterized by exclusive monotheism, defined canon, and strong institutional authorityâ"often coupled historically with organized proselytization, conversion efforts, and sometimes force (âoespread by the swordâ)[12][13][6]. Salvation hinges on faith in a specific god, following strict commandments, and aligning with fixed creeds. In contrast, **Hinduism is non-proselytizing and inclusive**, accepting atheists, polytheists, and diverse sectsâ"viewing all sincere seekersâ(TM) paths as valid[12][14][4][8]. Its complex pantheon and philosophical schools allow vibrant cross-pollination, defending spiritual freedom and individual choice above blind obedience and exclusivity[8][7][12].

## Key Insights for a Western Audience

- Hinduism thrives as **âoeopen-source spirituality,â** encouraging personal customization and growthâ"unlike religions defined by exclusive, institutional creeds[7][8][9][10].
- Its system honors **plural ways to the divine, philosophical freedom, and ongoing evolutionâ"akin to collaborative development in open source software**[7][8].
- Abrahamic faiths historically spread through evangelism and sometimes force, but Hinduism remains organic and integrative, rarely aiming to convert or replace other traditions[12][13][14].
- For seekers from structured Western backgrounds, Hinduism offers a paradigm where spiritual truth emerges from dialogue, experimentation, and respectful coexistenceâ"just as open-source software relies on community participation rather than imposition[7][8][10].

Citations:
[1] Hinduism - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/...
[2] Hinduism | Origin, History, Beliefs, Gods, & Facts - Britannica https://www.britannica.com/top...
[3] Religions - Hinduism: At a Glance - BBC https://www.bbc.co.uk/religion...
[4] 5 things Dharmic faiths have in common - Hindu American Foundation https://www.hinduamerican.org/...
[5] [PDF] Origins of Hinduism https://www.edu.gov.mb.ca/k12/...
[6] Hinduism: What Do You Know About the World's Oldest Religion? https://www.smp.org/resourcece...
[7] The World's First Open-Source LLM: Hinduism - The àà¾àà¾àà of URVA https://www.urva.site/p/world-...
[8] Open-source Hinduism - Irénées - Irenees.net https://www.irenees.net/bdf_fi...
[9] The God Project: Hinduism as Open-Source Faith | HuffPost Religion https://www.huffpost.com/entry...
[10] The God Project: Hinduism as Open-Source Faithâ"by Josh Schrei https://savitri.in/blogs/light...
[11] History of Hinduism - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/...
[12] Hinduism vs. Abrahamic Religions: Why Are They So Different? https://timeslife.com/life-hac...
[13] Why do Abrahamic Religion dislike Hinduism? - Reddit https://www.reddit.com/r/hindu...
[14] "Abrahamizing" Hinduism (NOT about Conversion) https://www.ihsanishan.com/ihs...
[15] Hinduism is akin to Open Source, while Abrahamic faiths are closed ... https://www.reddit.com/r/hindu...
[16] 12.4 Hinduism and Abrahamic religions: Interactions and dialogues https://library.fiveable.me/in...
[17] Is Hinduism actually the oldest religion in the world? - Reddit https://www.reddit.com/r/relig...
[18] FOSS is Necessary but Not Sufficient: Lessons from the History and ... https://www.digitalfutureslab....
[19] Neo-Vedanta - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/...
[20] Hindutva - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/...

Comment your cultural ignorance is not a virtue (Score 1) 153

get off your fuckin judgemental culturally ignorant high horse and study the fsxk up

https://www.perplexity.ai/sear...

deep research scientific benefits of ancient Hindu tradition of using cow manure to cleanse home

The ancient Hindu tradition of using cow manure (cow dung) to cleanse homes holds several scientific and practical benefits grounded in antimicrobial, hygienic, and environmental properties:

Natural Antimicrobial Properties:
- Cow dung contains a variety of microbes that produce antimicrobial compounds effective against pathogens such as Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus species, and others. Studies have confirmed cow dung samples inhibit growth of multiple bacterial pathogens, demonstrating antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral potential. Methanol extracts of cow dung show particularly strong antimicrobial effects [1][2][3][4][5].
- This antimicrobial activity likely contributed to its traditional use as a natural disinfectant to keep homes clean and pest-free before modern cleaning agents were available [1][6].

Pest Repellent and Hygiene Maintenance:
- The antimicrobial properties also make cow dung effective in repelling insects and pests, thus protecting the household and food supplies from contamination and infestations [1].
- When applied on floors, cow dung creates a smooth hard surface that reduces dust accumulation and improves home hygiene [1].

Environmental and Practical Benefits:
- Cow dung is abundant and renewable in rural agricultural settings, making it a sustainable option for household cleaning and floor coating.
- Its use regulates temperature and moisture in homes and has a pleasing smell, contributing positively to the indoor environment [1].
- Cow dung microorganisms have environmental benefits such as bioremediation of pollutants and agricultural value as organic fertilizer [7].

Spiritual and Cultural Context:
- In Hindu tradition, cow dung is considered sacred and pure, symbolizing cleanliness and positive energy in the home. The practice is intertwined with spiritual beliefs that regard the cow as holy and its byproducts as purifying substances [1][8][6].
- Panchagavya, a mixture including cow dung and other cow products, is believed to have health and ritual significance, though some medicinal claims require more scientific validation [8][6].

Cautions:
- Cow dung may also contain pathogenic bacteria, so safe handling and application are important to prevent adverse effects [2].
- Some exaggerated health claims, especially involving ingestion of cow products, lack scientific support and may pose risks [8].

In summary, scientific research supports the antimicrobial and hygienic benefits of using cow dung traditionally to cleanse homes, aligned with ancient Hindu practices emphasizing purity and environmental harmony. The tradition combines practical sanitation with cultural reverence and ecological sustainability [1][2][6][3].

Citations:
[1] Why Cow Dung was used in Ancestral Homes? - Truly Desi https://www.trulydesi.in/blogs...
[2] [PDF] Microbiological investigation and determination of the antimicrobial ... https://www.banglajol.info/ind...
[3] Study of Antimicrobial Profile of Various Cow Dung Extracts Against ... https://journalanimalresearch....
[4] Cow dung-A boon for antimicrobial activity. - CABI Digital Library https://www.cabidigitallibrary...
[5] Purification and characterization of proteases from cow dung https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/a...
[6] Spiritual and Scientific Significance of Cow Dung and Urine in ... https://hariomashram.org/2025/...
[7] Cow products: boon to human health and food security - PMC https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/a...
[8] Panchagavya - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/...
[9] Why Cow is Sacred? Scientific Evidence Reveals the Benefits of... https://www.savetemples.org/po...
[10] The use of cow dung and urine to cure COVIDâ19 in India https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/a...
[11] Here's Why Cow Dung Is Used To Clean Houses In My Ho Adivasi ... https://www.youthkiawaaz.com/2...
[12] Panchgavya: A precious gift to humankind - PMC https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/a...
[13] Antimicrobial and antioxidant activities evaluation of gut bacterium ... https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/a...
[14] Cow Dung Soap Is Cleaning Up In India - NPR https://www.npr.org/sections/g...
[15] Cow urine - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/...
[16] Cow dung-derived biochars engineered as antibacterial agents for ... https://www.sciencedirect.com/...
[17] Cow Urine: Tradition, Beliefs, and Scientific Evidence https://raagdelhi.com/news/cow...
[18] why cow dung is considered sacred? a scientific explanation https://www.academia.edu/34653...
[19] a study of soil floors and cow dung in rural Bangladesh - ASM Journals https://journals.asm.org/doi/1...
[20] Cow Dung Itself Breeds Antibiotic Resistance - Scientific American https://www.scientificamerican...

Comment overgeneralizing much? read up (Score 2) 153

Hindu and Catholic, Priest and Scholar: A Love Story | Prof. Francis Clooney & Swami Sarvapriyananda
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=...

The Harmonious Relationship Between Hinduism and Science

Hinduism, one of the world's oldest living religions, has a profound connection with science that spans thousands of years [1]. The ancient Hindu scriptures, such as the Vedas and Upanishads, contain descriptions of the universe and human existence that are remarkably consistent with modern scientific theories [2]. This connection highlights the advanced knowledge and understanding of the universe that ancient Indian sages possessed [3].

Hindu cosmology describes the universe as undergoing cycles of creation, preservation, and destruction, which parallels modern theories of the Big Bang and Big Crunch [4]. The Rig Veda's description of the universe expanding from a single point is consistent with modern cosmological theories [5]. This cyclical view of the universe also resonates with modern theories of the universe's evolution and eventual collapse [6].

The Vaisheshika school of philosophy, founded by Maharishi Kanada, proposed an atomic theory that describes matter as composed of indivisible and indestructible particles called "anu" [7]. This ancient concept is strikingly similar to modern atomic theory, which describes atoms as composed of protons, neutrons, and electrons [8]. The Hindu notion of different types of anu forming diverse substances also parallels the chemical bonding and molecular formation in modern chemistry [9].

Hinduism's Vedantic tradition provides profound insights into the nature of consciousness, which resonates with modern quantum physics [10]. The concept of non-duality (Advaita Vedanta) suggests that consciousness is fundamental to the universe, which is consistent with some interpretations of quantum mechanics [11]. The idea of entanglement in quantum physics also parallels the Hindu concept of interconnectedness [12].
description of the universe expanding from a single point is consistent with modern cosmological theories [5]. This cyclical view of the universe also resonates with modern theories of the universe's evolution and eventual collapse [6].

The Vaisheshika school of philosophy, founded by Maharishi Kanada, proposed an atomic theory that describes matter as composed of indivisible and indestructible particles called "anu" [7]. This ancient concept is strikingly similar to modern atomic theory, which describes atoms as composed of protons, neutrons, and electrons [8]. The Hindu notion of different types of anu forming diverse substances also parallels the chemical bonding and molecular formation in modern chemistry [9].

Hinduism's Vedantic tradition provides profound insights into the nature of consciousness, which resonates with modern quantum physics [10]. The concept of non-duality (Advaita Vedanta) suggests that consciousness is fundamental to the universe, which is consistent with some interpretations of quantum mechanics [11]. The idea of entanglement in quantum physics also parallels the Hindu concept of interconnectedness [12].

Yoga, an ancient Indian practice, has gained popularity worldwide for its holistic approach to health and well-being [13]. The practice of yoga and meditation can lead to changes in brain activity and energy flow in the body, which is consistent with modern scientific understanding of the human body's energy systems [14]. This holistic approach to health and well-being is a testament to the advanced understanding of human physiology and psychology that ancient Indian sages possessed [15].

The connections between Hinduism and science are profound and fascinating [16]. By exploring these intersections, we can gain a deeper understanding of the universe and our place within it [17]. This harmonious relationship between science and spirituality offers a model for addressing the challenges of the modern world, promoting ethical advancements, holistic understanding, and sustainable progress [18].

References:
[1] Sanatan Dharma and Science
[2] Hinduism and Science
[3] Advanced knowledge of Indian sages
[4] Big Bang and Big Crunch
[5] Rig Veda and Modern Cosmology
[6] Cyclical universe concept
[7] Vaisheshika School of Philosophy
[8] Modern Atomic Theory
[9] Chemical bonding and molecular formation
[10] Vedantic Tradition
[11] Non-Duality and Quantum Mechanics
[12] Entanglement and interconnectedness
[13] Yoga and Mental Health
[14] Neuroscience and Psychology
[15] Holistic approach to health
[16] Connections between Hinduism and Science
[17] Deeper Understanding
[18] Harmonious relationship between science and spirituality

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