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Handbook of Catholic Social Teaching
Economic Justice
1. What is the Christian perspective on economic life?
"Every perspective on economic life that is human, moral, and Christian must be shaped by three questions: What does the economy do for people? What does it do to people? And how do people participate in it?"
U.S. Bishops, Economic Justice for All (1986) 1.
Reflections on the Christian perspective on economic life.
a) What should economic life focus on?
b) Do you think the focus of the American economy is more on people or more on things?
c) Can a businessperson or politician strive after an economy that is both 'strong and vigorous' and 'human, moral, and Christian,' or must he strive after one or the other?
2. What is the fundamental moral criterion for all economic decisions, policies, and institutions?
"The fundamental moral criterion for an economic decisions, policies, and institutions is this: They must be at the service of all people, especially the poor."
U.S. Bishops. Economic Justice for All (1986) 24.
Reflections on the fundamental moral criterion for economic activity.
a) Give an example of an economic decision. An economic policy. An economic institution.
b) Why must they serve all people, and not just some people?
c) Why must they be of special service to the poor?
3. What are the moral dimensions of economic life based on?
"The basis for all that the Church believes about the moral dimensions of economic life is its vision of the transcendent worth the sacredness of human beings. The dignity of the human person, realized in community with others, is the criterion against which an aspects of economic life must be measured."
U.S. Bishops. Economic Justice for All (1986) 28.
Reflections on the basis for economic morality.
a) Do you believe that there is a moral dimension to economic life? Why?
b) What are some ways in which an economy might show lack of respect for the dignity of the human person?
4. What are some of the basic principles of economic life?
"Catholic teaching on economic issues flows from the Church's commitment to human rights and human dignity. This living tradition articulates a number of principles which are useful in evaluating our current economic situation. Without attempting to set down an all-inclusive list, we draw the following principles from the social teachings of the Church and ask that policymakers and citizens ponder their implications. (a) Economic activity should be governed by justice and be carried out within the limits of morality. It must serve the people's needs. (b ) The right to have a share of earthly goods sufficient for oneself and one's family belongs to everyone. (c) Economic prosperity is to be assessed not so much from the sum total of goods and wealth possessed as from the distribution of goods according to norms of justice. (d) Opportunities to work must be provided for those who are able and willing to work. Every person has the right to useful employment, to just wages, and to adequate assistance in case of real need. (e) Economic development must not be left to the sole judgment of a few persons or groups possessing excessive economic power, or to the political community alone. On the contrary, at every level the largest possible number of people should have an active share in directing that development. (1) A just and equitable system of taxation requires assessment according to ability to pay. (g) Government must play a role in the economic activity of its citizens. Indeed, it should promote in a suitable manner the production of a sufficient supply of material goods. Moreover, it should safeguard the rights of all citizens, and help them find opportunities for employment."
U.S. Bishops, The Economy: Human Dimensions (1975) 5.
Reflections on the basic principle of economic life.
a) What does it mean to say that the economy should be "governed by justice"?
b) How are two economies likely to be different if one is "carried out within the limits of morality" and the other is not?
c) If
has the right to a sufficient share of earthly goods, is it ever moral and just for a person to starve to death?
d) What about living in extreme poverty: Can it be justified or does it violate this right?
e) Two islands are each inhabited by 100 people. The economy of island A is worth $5 million; the economy of island B is worth $3 million. Island A has two millionaires and about three dozen people living in poverty. Island B has no millionaires and a few individuals living in poverty, In your opinion, which has the healthier economy?
f) Does an individual owe it to society to work? Does society owe it to an individual to make sure that he has work?
g) Answer this multiple choice question and then explain the reasons for your answer: The economy of an area should be run by (1) the elected leaders supported by the people; (2) the people supported by their elected leaders; (3) those within the area who are politically and economically strongest; (4) those within the area who have the greatest economic expertise.
h) In the previous question, what is wrong with the three answers you rejected?
i) Do you agree that a person earning $100,000 a year should pay a lot more taxes than a person earning $10,000 a year?
j) What do you think of the proposition that, when it comes to the economy, the government that governs less, governs best?
5. List six basic human rights in economic life noted by the Church in its teaching.
"In its teaching, the Church has noted a number of basic human rights in economic life, including the right to productive employment, the right to just wages, the right to an adequate income, the rights of workers to organize and bargain collectively, the right to own property for the many as a protection of freedom, and the right to participation in economic decisions."
U.S. Bishops, To Do the Work of Justice (1978) 28.
Reflections on six basic human rights in economic life.
a) Give an example of the violation of the right to productive employment.
b) Give an example of the violation of the right to just wages.
c) Give an example of the violation of the right to an adequate income.
d) Give an example of the violation of the right of workers to organize and bargain collectively.
e) Give an example of the violation of the right to own property.
f) Give an example of the violation of the right to participation in economic decisions.
g) Have you had a personal experience of the violation of any of these rights? If so, describe it.
6. What are the priorities established in Catholic teaching on the economic order?
"The needs of the poor take priority over the desires of the rich; the rights of workers over the maximization of profits; the preservation of the environment over uncontrolled industrial expansion; production to meet social needs over production for military purposes."
Pope John Paul II, Address on Christian Unity in a Technological Age (Toronto, Canada, 1984)
Reflections on priorities in the economic order .
a) Explain what each of these four priorities means.
b) Explain in each case the reason why the first item is of greater importance than the second item.
c) How does this statement of Pope John Paul II strike you: Does it express your feelings, or does it represent a point of view that is different from yours?
7. Do individuals have a right to private property?
"The right of private property, including that pertaining to goods devoted to productive enterprises, is permanently valid. Indeed, it is rooted in the very nature of things, whereby we learn that individual men are prior to civil society, and hence, that civil society is to be directed toward men as its end. Indeed, the right of private individuals to act freely in economic affairs is recognized in vain, unless they are at the same time given an opportunity of freely selecting and using things necessary for the exercise of this right."
Pope John XXIII, On Christianity and Social Progress (1961) 109.
Reflections on the right to private property.
a) There seem to be two basic justifications for private property given in this statement. Can you point them out?
b) Basing your explanation on the above statement, tell what happens to an individual when his/her right to ownership is denied.
8. Is private property an absolute right?
"Private ownership confers on no one a supreme and unconditional right. No one is allowed to set aside solely for his own advantage possessions which exceed his needs when others lack the necessities of life."
Pope Paul VI, On the Development of Peoples (1967) 23.
"Christian tradition has never upheld this right (to ownership) as absolute and untouchable. On the contrary, it has always understood this right within the broader context of the right com mon to all to use the goods of the whole of creation: The right to private property is subordinated to the right to common use, to the fact that goods are meant for everyone."
Pope John Paul II, On Human Work (1981) 14.
"No one can ever own capital resources absolutely or control their use without regard for others and society as a whole. This applies first of all to land and natural resources. Short term profits reaped at the cost of depletion of natural resources or the pollution of the environment violate this trust."
U.S. Bishops, Economic Justice for All (1986) 112.
Reflections on private property as an absolute right.
a) Explain in your own words what it means to say that the right to private property is not absolute.
b) Restate Pope Paul's second sentence in your own words and explain what sounds right or wrong about it.
c) What does Pope Paul seem to be saying to an extremely rich person living in our society?
d) The American bishops bring up the issue of the misuse of natural resources. What does this have to do with private property?
e) What does Pope John Paul mean by "the right to common use"?
9. What does it mean to say that we are trustees of God's creation?
"Our faith teaches us that 'the earth is the Lord's' (Ps 24) and that wealth and private property are held in trust for others. We are trustees of God's creation, and as good stewards we are required to exercise that trust for the common good and benefit of our brothers and sisters."
U.S. Bishops, The Right to a Decent Home (1975) 10.
Reflections on trusteeship of God's creation.
a) Using something you own in your explanation, tell what it means to hold private property in trust for others.
b) Do you agree with the notion that I should use my personal belongings not just for my good but for the common good, and not just for my benefit but for the benefit of my fellow human beings? Why?
10. How does the Church view the pursuit of possessions?
"An ever growing supply of possessions is not to be so highly valued either by nations or by individuals as to be considered the ultimate goal. For all development has a twofold effect: on the one hand it is necessary for man so that he develop himself as a human being more and more, on the other it imprisons him as it were if it is sought as the highest good beyond which one is not to look. When this takes place hearts are hardened, minds are closed, men unite not to foster friendship but to gain advantage and as a consequence easily fall into opposition and disunity. Consequently the exclusive quest for economic possessions not only impedes man's development as a human being but also opposes his true greatness. For both nations and men who are infected with the vice of avarice give clearest evidence of moral underdevelopment."
Pope Paul VI, On the Development of Peoples (1967) 19
Reflections on the pursuit of possessions.
a) According to this statement, our ultimate goal is not to own more and more things. Do you agree or disagree? Why?
b) "All development has a twofold effect," in other words, bettering yourself economically is a legitimate human goal, and yet it brings problems with it. What is the bright side of bettering yourself financially? What is the dark side of bettering yourself financially?
c) Pope Paul, in a much quoted statement, refers to avarice (greed) as "evidence of moral underdevelopment." What do you suppose he meant by that?
11. Does everyone have a basic right to the necessities of life?
"The right to have a share of earthly goods sufficient for oneself and one's family belongs to everyone. The Fathers and Doctors of the Church held this view, teaching that men are obliged to come to the relief of the poor, and to do so not merely out of their superfluous goods."
Vatican II, Church in the Modern World (1965) 69.
Reflections on the right to the necessities of life.
a) What right does the council say belongs to everyone? Do you agree? Why?
b) Do you agree that we have an obligation to come to the relief of the poor? Why?
c) What does it mean to say that we should help the poor "not merely out of (our) superfluous goods"?
12. What right does a person in extreme necessity have?
"If a person is in extreme necessity, he has the right to take from the riches of others what he himself needs."
Vatican II, Church in the Modern World (1965) 69
"As the Roman pontiffs have repeatedly emphasized in their recent encyclicals, and as accepted Catholic morality has always taught, whenever a person or a group is deprived of its basic necessities, expropriation is justified. In such an extreme case the poor have not chosen social warfare; it is imposed upon them by the injustices of the possessors."
U.S. Bishops, Pastoral Letter on Marxist Communism (1980) 44.
Reflections on the right of a person in extreme necessity.
a) What right is expressed in both of the above statements?
b) How does each statement express the condition under which the right exists?
c) Some people would say that it sounds like stealing to them. Obviously the Catholic bishops of the United States and the world do not believe in stealing. Why do you think they would say that, under the circumstances described, it is not stealing?
13. What are those to do who have received a greater share of goods?
"Whoever has received from the bounty of God a greater share of goods, whether corporeal and external, or of the soul, has received them for this purpose, namely, that he employ them for his own perfection and, likewise, as a servant of Divine Providence, for the benefit of others."
Pope Leo XIII, On the Condition of Workers (1891) 36.
Reflections on those who have more goods.
a) According to this, what is a person supposed to do if he or she has more than others? Do you agree? Why?
b) What are the two purposes in having physical and spiritual goods?
14. Is equality of income and wealth a demand of justice?
"Catholic social teaching does not maintain that a flat, arithmetical equality of income and wealth is a demand of justice, but it does challenge economic arrangements that leave large numbers of people impoverished. Further, it sees extreme inequality as a threat to the solidarity of the human community, for great disparities lead to deep social divisions and conflict."
U.S. Bishops. Economic Justice/or All (1986) 74.
Reflections on equality of income and wealth.
a) Does justice require that everyone have exactly the same amount of income and wealth? Why?
b) Granted that we all have different amounts of income and wealth, when do those differences become unjust?
c) Why is extreme inequality in income and wealth a serious problem in society?
15. How can you tell if a society is just or unjust?
"The way society responds to the needs of the poor through its public policies is the litmus test of its justice or injustice.
U.S. Bishops, Economic Justice for All ( 1986) l23.
"The justice of a socioeconomic system and, in each case, its just functioning, deserve in the final analysis to be evaluated by the way in which man's work is properly remunerated in the system. A just wage is the concrete means of verifying the justice of the whole socioeconomic system and, in any case, of checking that it is functioning justly. It is not the only means of checking, but it is a particularly important one and in a sense the key means."
Pope John Paul II, On Human Work (1981) 19.
Reflections on telling if a society is just or unjust.
a) What does each statement say about how we can tell if a society is just or unjust?
b) The two answers are obviously not identical. Is there or is there not a relationship between the two answers? Explain.
c) If you had to choose one or the other, which of the two gives the best way to test the justice of a society? Explain why you chose it.
d) Based on what you know of American society, would you say that it meets the criterion of the first statement? of the second statement? Give the reasons for your decision.
16. How important is it to care for the needs or the poor?
"The obligation to provide justice for all means that the poor have the single most urgent economic claim on the conscience of the nation."
U.S. Bishops, Economic Justice for All (1986) 86.
"The fulfillment of the basic needs of the poor is of the highest priority. Personal decisions, policies of private and public bodies, and power relationships must all be evaluated by their effects on those who lack the minimum necessities of nutrition, housing, education, and health care. In particular, this principle recognizes that meeting fundamental human needs must come before the fulfillment of desires for luxury consumer goods, for profits not conducive to the common good, and for unnecessary military hardware."
U.S. Bishops, Economic Justice for All (1986) 90.
"Decisions must be judged in light of what they do for the poor, what they do to the poor, and what they enable the poor to do for themselves."
U.S. Bishops, Economic Justice for All (1986) 24.
Reflections on caring for the needs of the poor.
a) Restate each of the three passages in your own words.
b) Do you agree that the most urgent moral task facing us is caring for the poor? Why?
c) Give an example of how we in our society sometimes put the desire for luxury items ahead of meeting basic human needs. Why is this wrong?
d) What is meant by "profits not conducive to the common good"? When is profit-taking wrong?
e) Give an example of doing something for the poor. Give an example of doing something to the poor. Give an example of the poor being enabled to do something for themselves.
17. What is meant by the 'preferential option for the poor'?
"Such perspectives provide a basis today for what is called the 'preferential option for the poor.' Though in the Gospels and in the New Testament as a whole the offer of salvation is extended to all peoples, Jesus takes the side of those most in need, physically and spiritually. The example of Jesus poses a number of challenges to the contemporary Church. It imposes a prophetic mandate to speak for those who have no one to speak for them, to be a defender of the defenseless, who in biblical terms are the poor. It also demands a compassionate vision that enables the Church to see things from the side of the poor and powerless, and to assess lifestyle, policies, and social institutions in terms of their impact on the poor. It summons the Church also to be an instrument in assisting people to experience the liberating power of God in their own lives, so that they may respond to the Gospel in freedom and in dignity. Finally, and most radically, it calls for an emptying of self, both individually and corporately, that allows the Church to experience the power of God in the midst of poverty and powerlessness."
U.S. Bishops, Economic Justice for All (1986) 52
Reflections on the 'preferential option for the poor.'
a) Whose side did Jesus take during his life? Why do you think he took their side? Did he care about the others?
b) What does it mean to "speak for those who have no one to speak for them"? Give an example of how this might be done.
c) What does it mean to "see things from the side of the poor"? Give an example of how this might be done.
d) How does taking a look at my lifestyle help the poor?
e) Do you agree that our society and our Church should evaluate all of their policies on the basis of their impact on the poor?
f) What do you think the bishops mean when they say that the power of God can be experienced in the midst of poverty and powerlessness? Do you agree with them? Why?
18. What obligation does the preferential option for the poor place on the more fortunate in society?
"In teaching us charity, the Gospel instructs us in the preferential respect due to the poor and the special situation they have in society: the more fortunate should renounce some of their rights so as to place their goods more generously at the service of others."
Pope Paul VI, A Call to Action (1971) 23.
Reflections on the obligation of the more fortunate in society.
a) What is meant by the more fortunate renouncing some of their rights? Do you agree that that should be done? Why?
19. What is the purpose of the preferential option for the poor?
"The prime purpose of this special commitment to the poor is to enable them to become active participants in the life of society. It is to enable all persons to share in and contribute to the common good."
U.S. Bishops, Economic Justice for All (1986) 88.
Reflections on the purpose of the preferential option for the poor.
a) When is a person an active participant in the life of society? Give examples.
b) When is a person not an active participant in the life of society? Give examples.
c) Give an example of something society can do to "enable" everyone to participate in society.
20. Does the preferential option for the poor pit one class against an other?
"The 'option for the poor' is not an adversarial slogan that pits one group or class against another. Rather it states that the deprivation and powerlessness of the poor wounds the whole community. The extent of their suffering is a measure of how far we are from being a true community of persons. These wounds will be healed only by greater solidarity with the poor and among the poor themselves."
U.S. Bishops, Economic Justice for All (1986) 88.
Reflections on the option for the poor and class warfare.
a) What do you think the bishops mean when they speak of the deprivation and powerlessness of the poor wounding the entire community? How do the poor hurt those of us who are not poor?
b) Describe the cure recommended for those wounds.
c) Do you agree that giving priority to the poor does not pit one class against another? Why?
d) In Latin America people were killed because they tried to organize the poor. Why do you think rich people tend to look on solidarity among the poor as a dangerous threat?
21. What must be done beyond the helping of the poor and the hungry?
"But these appeals and projects, just as funds privately and publicly allocated, gifts, and loans are not sufficient. For it is not simply a question of eliminating hunger and reducing poverty. It is not enough to combat destitution, urgent and necessary as this is. The point at issue is the establishment of a human society in which everyone, regardless of race, religion, or nationality, can live a truly human life free from bondage imposed by men and the forces of nature not sufficiently mastered, a society in which freedom is not an empty word, and where Lazarus the poor man can sit at the same table as the rich man."
Pope Paul VI, On the Development of Peoples (1967) 47.
Reflections on going beyond helping the poor and the hungry.
a) Why is it not good enough to eliminate hunger and reduce poverty?
b) What would a society be like in which "the poor man can sit at the same table as the rich man"?
c) Do you think such a society is possible? Why?
22. Under what circumstances is private or public spending morally wrong?
"While so many people are going hungry, while so many families are suffering destitution, while so many people spend their lives submerged in the darkness of ignorance, while so many schools, hospitals, homes worthy of the name, are needed, every public or private squandering, every expenditure either of nations or individuals made for the sake of pretentious parade, finally every financially depleting arms race, all these we say become a scandalous and intolerable crime. The most serious obligation enjoined on us demands that we openly denounce it."
Pope Paul VI, On the Development of Peoples (1967) 53.
Reflections on the morality of private and public spending.
a) Why is private squandering morally wrong as long as there is hunger, poverty, ignorance, and inadequate medical care?
b) What is meant by "pretentious parade" on the part of individuals and nations? Why is it morally wrong as long as there is hunger, poverty, ignorance, and inadequate medical care?
c) Why is the arms race "a scandalous and intolerable crime" as long as there is hunger, poverty, ignorance, and inadequate medical care?
23. When is a productive, well distributed economy unjust?
"If the organization and structure of economic life be such that the human dignity of workers is compromised, or their sense of responsibility is weakened, or their freedom of action is removed, then we judge such an economic order to be unjust, even though it produces a vast amount of goods, whose distribution conforms to the norms of justice and equity."
Pope John XXIII, On Christianity and Social Progress (1961) 83.
Reflections on the justice of a productive, well distributed economy.
a) What are the three circumstances under which an economy is to be judged unjust?
b) Explain why each circumstance makes an economy unjust?
24. What is the ultimate and basic purpose of economic production?
"The ultimate and basic purpose of economic production does not consist merely in the increase of goods produced, nor in profit nor prestige; it is directed to the service of man, of man, that is, in his totality, taking into account his material needs and the requirements of his intellectual, moral, spiritual, and religious life; of all men whomsoever and of every group of men of whatever race or from whatever part of the world."
Vatican II, Church in the Modern World (1965) 64.
Reflections on the purpose of economic production.
a) Why can't the basic purpose of economic production be the increase of goods produced?
b) Why can't profit be the basic purpose of economic production?
c) How is economic production supposed to take into account all of our requirements: material, intellectual, etc.?
d) Why must economic production take into account the requirements of all people everywhere?
25. What does the dignity of work consist of?
"The description of creation, which we find in the very first chapter of the Book of Genesis, is also in a sense the first 'gospel of work.' For it shows what the dignity of work consists of: It teaches that man ought to imitate God, his creator, in working, because man alone has the unique characteristic of likeness to God. Man ought to imitate God both in working and also in resting, since God himself wished to present his own creative activity under the form of work and rest."
Pope John Paul II, On Human Work (1981) 25.
Reflections on the dignity of work.
a) In what sense is work an imitation of God?
b) Why does the pope refer to Genesis as the first 'gospel of work'?
c) Is there dignity attached only to work, or is there also dignity attached to rest? Why?
26. What determines the ethical value of human work?
"Human work has an ethical value of its own, which clearly and directly remains linked to the fact that the one who carries it out is a person, a conscious and free subject, that is to say, a subject that decides about himself. The basis for determining the value of human work is not primarily the kind of work being done, but the fact that the one who is doing it is a person."
Pope John Paul II, On Human Work (1981) 6.
Reflections on the ethical value of human work.
a) The statement says that work is ethical when it is done by a free person deciding about himself. Why is it unethical when the person doing it is not free and deciding about himself!
b) Why is the person more important than the work he is do ing?
27. What is the ethical meaning of work?
"If one wishes to define more clearly the ethical meaning of work, it is this truth that one must particularly keep in mind. Work is a good thing for man, a good thing for his humanity because through work man not only transforms nature, adapting it to his own needs, but he also achieves fulfillment as a human being and indeed in a sense becomes 'more a human being.'"
Pope John Paul II, On Human Work (1981) 9.
Reflections on the ethical meaning of work.
a) What are the two reasons given for work being a good thing for people?
b) List several types of work with which you are familiar and explain what they have to do with transforming nature and achieving human fulfillment.
28. What is the duty to work based on?
"Man must work both because the Creator has commanded it and because of his own humanity, which requires work in order to be maintained and developed. Man must work out of regard for others, especially his own family, but also for the society he belongs to, the country of which he is a child and the whole human family of which he is a member, since he is the heir to the work of generations and at the same time a sharer in building the future of those who will come after him in the succession of history. All this constitutes the moral obligation of work, understood in its wide sense."
Pope John Paul II, On Human Work (1981) 16.
Reflections on the duty to work.
a) List the four reasons given for our obligation to work.
b) What does it mean to say that we are heirs to the work of generations?
c) What does our work have to do with those who will come after us?
29. How important is work in the whole area of social justice?
"Human work is a key, probably the essential key, to the whole social question, if we try to see that question really from the point of view of man's good. And if the solution or rather the gradual solution of the social question, which keeps coming up and becomes ever more complex, must be sought in the direction of 'making life more human,' then the key, namely human work, acquires fundamental and decisive importance."
Pope John Paul II, On Human Work (1981) 3
Reflections on work in the area of social justice.
a) What do you think the pope meant by "the social question"?
b ) Why would work be the key to the solution of "the social question"?
30. Do workers have a right to form unions?
"The Church fully supports the right of workers to form unions or other associations to secure their rights to fair wages and working conditions. This is a specific application of the more general right to associate. No one may deny the right to organize without attacking human dignity itself. Therefore, we firmly oppose organized efforts, such as those regrettably now seen in this country, to break existing unions and prevent workers from organizing. We vehemently oppose violations of the freedom to associate, wherever they occur, for they are an intolerable attack on social solidarity."
U.S. Bishops, Economic Justice for All (1986) 104-05.
Reflections on the right to form unions.
a) Why does the Church support the right to form unions?
b) What image do you have of unions? Are they good for workers? Are they good for the country?
31. Do workers have a right to strike?
"One method used by unions in pursuing the just rights of their members is the strike or work stoppage, as a kind of ultimatum to the competent bodies, especially the employers. This method is recognized by Catholic social teaching as legitimate in the proper conditions and within just limits. In this connection workers should be assured the right to strike, without being subjected to personal penal sanctions for taking part in a strike. While admitting that it is a legitimate means, we must at the same time emphasize that a strike remains, in a sense, an extreme means. It must not be abused; it must not be abused especially for 'political' purposes."
Pope John Paul II, On Human Work (1981) 20.
Reflections on the right to strike.
a) Catholic social teaching recognizes the right to strike "in the proper conditions and within just limits." What do you think would be improper conditions and unjust limits?
b) Do strikes help or hurt workers?
c) Do you agree that workers have the right to strike? Why?
32. What must be considered in determining an appropriate wage?
"In determining what constitutes an appropriate wage, the fol lowing must necessarily be taken into account first of all, the contribution of individuals to the economic effort; the economic state of the enterprises within which they work; the requirements of each community, especially as regards overall employment; finally, what concerns the common good of all peoples, namely, of the various States associated among themselves, but differing in character and extent."
Pope John XXIII, On Christianity and Social Progress (1961) 71.
Reflections on determining an appropriate wage.
a) Restate in your own words each of the four factors that should influence the determination of an appropriate wage.
b) Explain why each is a legitimate factor that should be taken into account.
c) Using these criteria, when do you think the minimum wage is just, and when is it unjust?
33. Which has priority: capital or labor?
"We must first of all recall a principle that has always been taught by the church: the principle of the priority of labor over capital. This principle directly concerns the process of production: In this process labor is always a primary efficient cause, while capital, the whole collection of means of production, remains a mere instrument or instrumental cause. This principle is an evident truth that emerges from the whole of man's historical experience. The hierarchy of values and the profound meaning of work itself require that capital should be at the service of labor and not labor at the service of capital."
Pope John Paul II, On Human Work (1981) 12, 23.
Reflections on the priority of labor over capital.
a) What does it mean to say that labor is a primary efficient cause and capital is an instrumental cause?
b) Why does labor take priority over capital?
c) Give an example of the violation of this principle.
34. What is the church's duty regarding workers?
"The church considers it her task always to call attention to the dignity and rights of those who work, to condemn situations in which that dignity and those rights are violated, and to help to guide the abovementioned changes so as to ensure authentic progress by man and society."
Pope John Paul II, On Human Work (1981) 1
Reflections on the church's duty regarding workers.
a) Explain how each of the tasks listed is a proper function of the church.
b) Describe a situation in which the dignity and rights of workers are violated. What would need to be done to correct the situation?
35. How important is full employment?
"Full employment is the foundation of a just economy. The most urgent priority for domestic economic policy is the creation of new jobs with adequate pay and decent working conditions."
U.S. Bishops, Economic Justice for All (1986) 136.
Reflections on the importance of full employment.
a) What does it mean to say that a just economy is based on full employment? Do you agree? Why?
b) Most of us would agree that it is unrealistic to expect for there to be 100 percent employment all the time. What is full employment, then, or in other words, at what point do you not have full employment?
c) Do you agree that proper job creation is an urgent priority? Why?
36. Can high unemployment be tolerated in order to hold down inflation?
"There are those who insist that we must tolerate high levels of unemployment for some, in order to avoid ruinous inflation for all. Although we are deeply concerned about inflation, we reject such a policy as not grounded in justice."
U.S. Bishops, The Economy: Human Dimensions (1975) 14.
Reflections on unemployment vs. inflation.
a) Why would the bishops say that unemployment is a more serious problem than inflation?
b) Do you agree with them? Why?
c) A contrary argument says that inflation is more important because it hurts everyone while unemployment does not. Explain how unemployment hurts not just the unemployed but everyone.
37. What is the government's role in addressing the problem of unemployment?
"Government has a prominent and indispensable role to play in addressing the problem of unemployment The market alone will not automatically produce full employment. Therefore, the government must act to ensure that this goal is achieved by coordinating general economic policies, by job creation programs, and by other appropriate policy measures."
U.S. Bishops, Economic Justice for All (1986) 154.
Reflections on the government and unemployment.
a) Why won't the market alone produce full employment?
b) What are job creation programs? Many people do not think that the government should be involved in such programs. What is your opinion?
38. What is the basis for the obligation to provide unemployment benefits?
"The obligation to provide unemployment benefits, that is to say, the duty to make suitable grants indispensable for the subsistence of unemployed workers and their families, is a duty springing from the fundamental principle of the moral order in this sphere, namely the principle of the common use of goods or, to put it in another and still simpler way, the right to life and subsistence."
Pope John Paul II, On Human Work (1981) 18.
Reflections on unemployment benefits.
a) Explain in your own words why workers should be given benefits while they are unemployed.
b) The pope implies that it is immoral not to help unemployed workers? Do you agree? Why?
39. Why are competition and private initiative insufficient to assure the success of development?
"The initiatives of individuals and the fluctuations of competition will not assure the success of development. For it is not lawful to go to such lengths that the resources and power of the rich become even greater, and the distress of the needy be increased and the enslavement of the oppressed aggravated."
Pope Paul VI, On the Development of Peoples (1967) 33.
Reflections on competition and private initiative.
a) The statement says that it is unlawful for private initiative and competition to lead to a situation in which the rich get richer and the poor get poorer. Do you agree or disagree? Why?
b) What restrictions, if any, should be placed on private initiative?
c) What is meant by "enslavement of the oppressed"? Give examples.
40. Has the Church been critical of capitalism?
"From this point of view the position of 'rigid' capitalism continues to remain unacceptable, namely the position that defends the exclusive right to private ownership of the means of production as an untouchable 'dogma' of economic life. The principle of respect for work demands that this right should undergo a constructive revision both in theory and in practice."
Pope John Paul II, On Human Work (1981) 14.
"In Quadragesimo Anno Pope Pius XI referred to the liberal theory of uncontrolled competition as a 'poisoned spring' from which have originated all the errors of individualism. The French hierarchy, commenting upon the same pope's letter on communism, stated: 'By condemning the actions of communist parties, the Church does not support the capitalist regime. It is most necessary that it be realized that in the very essence of capitalism that is to say, in the absolute value that it gives to property without reference to the common good or to the dignity of labor there is a materialism rejected by Christian teaching."
U.S. Bishops, Pastoral Letter on Marxist Communism (1980) 62.
Reflections on the church and capitalism.
a) The first statement rejects the proposition that the means of .production (factories, farms, mines, etc.) should be owned exclusively by private citizens. What other kind of ownership is there? Do you agree or disagree that there should be both types of ownership? Why?
b) Why do you think the pope sees a conflict between respect for work and the exclusive right to private ownership of the means of production?
c) What do you think is meant in the second statement by uncontrolled competition? When is competition in need of control?
d) Mention is made of the church's condemnation of communism. What do you think is the church's argument with communism in the area of economic justice?
e) Do people have the right to do whatever they want with their property without having to be concerned about how it affects society? Why?
f) Does a businessman have the right to run his company any way he wants without having to be concerned with how it affects the people who work for him? Why?
41. Under what conditions does Catholic social teaching allow for socialization of the means of production?
"While we accept that for certain well founded reasons exceptions can be made to the principle of private ownership in our own time we even see that the system of 'socialized ownership' has been introduced nevertheless the personalist argument still holds good both on the level of principles and on the practical level. If it is to be rational and fruitful, any socialization of the means of production must take this argument into consideration. Every effort must be made to ensure that in this kind of system also the human person can preserve his awareness of working 'for himself.' If this is not done, incalculable damage is inevitably done throughout the economic process, not only economic damage but first and foremost damage to man."
Pope John Paul II, On Human Work (1981) 15.
Reflections on socialization of the means of production.
a) Under what circumstances is 'socialized ownership' acceptable?
b) Do you think that there is some room for 'socialized ownership' within the framework of a capitalist system? Why?
42. Under what condition can public ownership of goods be expanded?
"It is lawful for States and public corporations to expand their domain of ownership only when manifest and genuine requirements of the common good so require, and then with safeguards, lest the possession of private citizens be diminished beyond measure, or, what is worse, destroyed."
Pope John XXIII, On Christianity and Social Progress (1961) 117.
Reflections on the public ownership of goods.
a) According to this statement, what are the conditions for state ownership of property?
b) Give an example of state ownership which is in the interest of the common good.
c) Give an example of state ownership which is not in the interest of the common good.
43. What is required so that all peoples will have their right to development fulfilled?
"In order that the right to development may be fulfilled by action: a) people should not be hindered from attaining development in accordance with their own culture; b) through mutual cooperation, all peoples should be able to become the principal architects of their own economic and social development; c) every people, as active and responsible members of human society, should be able to cooperate for the attainment of the common good on an equal footing with other peoples."
Synod of Bishops, Justice in the World (1971) 71.
Reflections on the right to development.
a) Pick a Third World country and restate each of these rights in terms of that country.
b) Explain why that same country has each of these three rights.
c) Explain whether you think larger countries like the United States and Russia deal with smaller countries "on an equal footing."
44. What is the Church's role in economic life?
"It is not the Church's role to create or promote a specific new economic system. Rather, the Church must encourage all reforms that hold out hope of transforming our economic arrangements into a fuller systemic realization of the Christian moral vision. The Church must also stand ready to challenge practices and institutions that impede or carry us farther away from realizing this vision."
U.S. Bishops, Economic Justice for All (1986) 129.
Reflections on the Church's role in economic life.
a) What are the two roles outlined here for the church in the economic order? Do you consider them legitimate roles? Why?
b) Give an example of an economic practice or institution which stands in the way of the realization of the Christian moral vision.
c) Give an example of an economic reform which, in your opinion, would help realize the Christian moral vision.
45. What principles apply to the Church as economic actor?
"All the moral principles that govern the just operation of any economic endeavor apply to the Church and its agencies and institutions; indeed the Church should be exemplary."
U.S. Bishops, Economic Justice for All (1986) 347.
Reflections on the Church as economic actor.
a) Why is the Church subject to the same moral principles as any other economic institution?
b) Does the Church come across to you as an example of a just economic operation? Explain.
46. What should be the Church's attitude in its use of temporal possessions?
"In regard to temporal possessions, whatever be their use, it must never happen that the evangelical witness which the Church is required to give becomes ambiguous. Our faith demands of us a certain sparingness in use, and the Church is obliged to live and administer its own goods in such a way that the Gospel is proclaimed to the poor. If instead the Church appears to be among the rich and the powerful of this world, its credibility is diminished."
Synod of Bishops, Justice in the World (1971) 47.
Reflections on the Church's use of temporal possessions.
a) What is meant by "a certain sparingness in use" of goods? Do you agree that our faith demands it? Explain.
b) What does the Church's administration of its goods have to do with the proclamation of the Gospel to the poor?
c) If someone told you that it is his or her perception that the Church is "among the rich and the powerful of this world," what would be your response?
47. What questions should be asked about the lifestyle of Catholics and their Church?
"In the case of needy peoples it must be asked whether belonging to the Church places people on a rich island within an ambient of poverty. In societies enjoying a higher level of consumer spending, it must be asked whether our lifestyle exemplifies that sparingness with regard to consumption which we preach to others as necessary in order that so many millions of hungry people throughout the world may be fed."
Synod of Bishops, Justice in the World (1971) 48
"All of us must examine our way of living in light of the needs of the poor. Christian faith and the norms of justice impose distinct limits on what we consume and how we view material goods."
U.S. Bishops, Economic Justice for All (1986) 75.
Reflections on the lifestyle of Catholics and the Catholic Church.
a) A connection is made in the first statement between our lifestyle and the fate of hungry millions. Explain that connection as you see it.
b) Do you agree that "all of us must examine our way of living in light of the needs of the poor"? Why?
c) Is limiting what we consume good for the economy? Is it just or unjust, according to the bishops? What is your opinion?
d) How are we supposed to reconcile the demands of justice with the requirements for a healthy economy?


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Just completed a presentation about the project at the institution's annual Learning and Teaching conference. (The slides from this are available on slideshare.)
Turnout was great (a full room) and feedback was very positive – several comments about how interesting the project was, and how important it was to take a position that assumes and builds upon the diversity of student practice. I thought it was particularly interesting how the project's work was seen as an important part of so many different peoples' areas of practice. Discussion of PGCE and distance students was particularly lively.
At the end of the session I asked people to think about the students they work with, and how these issues might relate to work there – this sparked off some lively discussion in small groups. I tried to get some of this fed back in plenary, and managed to note the following before everyone rushed off to get lunch:
- That it was good to see the project's purpose was not to classify whether people are competent or not, but to understand and support people in the alternative ways of negotiating what you have to deal with day-to-day.
- That this contributes in to ongoing dialogue with students about their academic literacies – it was described as intensifying such discussions "in quite a good way".
- It is important to help teachers find ways to work that recognise this diversity of practice are so are more inclusive than a 'one-size-fits-all' approach. (For example, how should tutors work with groups in classes where some people have connected digital devices and others don't?)
- There was discussion about how hard it is to get students to collaborate online – they only do what's compulsory, not what's offered, but were able to engage when it was made compulsory. It was suggested that what teachers may need to do differently is not just expect use, but to do more to support this and raise expectations about digital participation.
- Students may face important issues decisions balancing having to pay for printing against how they might want to read.
- There were repeated requests to undertake similar work with staff – to understand the diversity of their practices and the challenges they face.
- Memoranda of Agreement and Memoranda of Understanding ask about resources in other institutions – as we use more digital resources, local institutions' lack of resources may matter less. (Note: we did discuss the differences there may be between offering resources to students and them being able to use them successfully.)
Repeatedly, I was also asked whether we could explore whether these constraints and expectations identified amongst students were replicated for teaching and support staff. This was seen as a really important issue, for several reasons. Firstly, these issues have ramifications for students (e.g. the resources available in classrooms can limit what we are able to model to students during classes). Secondly, there was concern that decisions about infrastructure and IT provision are being made on the assumption that staff are homogeneous, with similar needs and patterns of work; it would be helpful to have evidence that demonstrates this isn't the case. Thirdly, there are training and support issues that would be identified by doing this: if we have a better understanding of how staff work, we can work with them in more appropriate ways.
It may be worth discussing with the JISC whether any aspects of this could be taken up under the 'institutional readiness for change' work.

subset: commoncrawl


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London-based industrial designer Benjamin Hubert and his design company Layer will be debuting the first working prototype of their new 3D printed consumer wheelchair to 2016 Clerkenwell Design Week. The Go Wheelchair was developed alongside Materialise to bring customized, 3D printed wheelchairs to everyday users. The project's design team spent six months working with several dozen wheelchair users, doctors and specialists to create a design that would address the deficiencies and limitations of traditionally manufactured chairs. The goal was to change the general public's perception of a wheelchair as a medical device and instead treat it more as a consumer device that can be personalized based on individual needs.
3D printing has found a surprising number of uses within the disabled community. It offers the ability to customize products in a way that is simply not possible using traditional manufacturing technologies, which is important when dealing with a community that has individual disabilities that often can't be properly addressed with standardized products. For the most part, each disability is unique, and each disabled person has a specific set of needs and limitations. 3D printers have been used to create thousands of low-cost prosthetic limbs and countless assistive devices for a fraction of the cost of traditionally made prosthetics. While high-end 3D printing technology has been used to make wheelchairs before, it has only been used for individual athletes or custom builds, never for everyday consumers.
"With the Go wheelchair, we saw an opportunity to really progress the manual mobility category for users with disabilities, and to use 3D printing technology to solve significant and meaningful problems. 3D printing for manufacture is the most appropriate and powerful technology available to capture each individual's unique body shape to enhance the form and format of a very necessary product and provide exceptional performance," Hubert said.
While designing the Go, Hubert and his team focused on addressing specific issues that many of the longtime wheelchair users that they spoke with have with standard chairs. And despite being rather common, many of these issues have never really been addressed by wheelchair manufacturers. Creating a customized wheelchair starts with a body-mapping process that captures the user's height, weight and body measurements, not to mention taking note of their individual disability. These data will be used to create made-to-measure seats and foot bays that will improve comfort and support while reducing injuries, pressure and stress on their bodies. The seat will also be placed at the wheelchair's center of gravity based on the user's weight, while still taking into account their optimal sitting position.
The most obvious result of the new design is the aesthetic concerns raised by users who wanted a wheelchair that looked cooler and less like boring medical equipment, which can often carry a stigma with it. But as cool as the Go looks, the sleek and modern design isn't a superficial change. The design eliminates as many unnecessary components as possible to make the wheelchair considerably lighter than older designs. This all contributes to reducing the weight of the chair so it puts less strain on the user's body and joints, and will hopefully lower the risk of injury and reduce the rate of chronic arthritis.
The lightweight titanium frame manages to use fewer struts without reducing functionality, while the new, slim titanium foot bay replaces the bulky and outdated footplates from older designs completely. It also has a anti-slip surface to keep the user's feet in place, and is made to perfectly suit their leg length, the shape of their foot and their preferred sitting position. To further reduce weight, the wheels have lightweight carbon fiber spokes and are equipped with high-grip push rims attached to an innovative "wheelchair glove system" that makes the wheelchair easier to push and maneuver, especially in wet conditions.
The ergonomic seat is 3D printed in two different materials, a semi-transparent resin to further modernize the look of the chair, and a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) plastic that provides a shock-absorbing layer between the user and the 3D printed titanium frame. The reduced weight of the wheelchair not only makes it easier to move around in, but it makes it easier to stop and control. The Go takes advantage of this with its easy to access hand brakes that offers the user much more stability.
Layer also plans to launch an app with the Go Wheelchair that will allow users to help further design and customize their new chair. They will be able to choose colors, optional features and accessories. According to Hubert, the wheelchair can be ordered directly from the app and manufactured and delivered within two weeks. Discuss in the 3D Printed Wheelchair forum over at 3DPB.com.[Source/Images: Dezeen]
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Whether you were born in the city or moved, how 'Nottingham' do you think you really are?
Do you feel slightly uncomfortable travelling south out of the city - and the same if you're heading northwards?
Do you think that everywhere else in the country has an accent, but you don't?
If so, congratulations, you're probably on your way to being a true Nottinghamian.
But just how 'Nottingham' are you really?
We've come up with 15 questions to establish that very fact. Good luck!
Question -1 of 15 Score -0 of 0
Is this a bap, cob or roll?


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Barco's range of high-quality stereoscopic projectors combine the highest available resolution, superb image quality and high 3D stereo flexibility. What's more, they also feature a number of specific functions that make them ideally suited for VR installations. In addition, we also have a unique portfolio of rear projection screens for virtual reality applications.
Looking for complementary third party accessories?


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Multicultural health information for the public
Queensland Health is committed to improving and maintaining the health and well being of multicultural communities, families and individuals in Queensland.
Here you will find information about the Queensland health system and services, translated health information and resources, and information about multicultural activities, events and organisations.
Complaints about health or other services
Do you have concerns about a government or non-government health service or are you unhappy with the way an issue has been handled? Do you think you have been treated unfairly or are you concerned about a decision or action of a health professional?
It is ok to complain, and there are organisations that are independent of the government that can help you, free of charge.
Go to the Queensland Independent Complaint Agencies' website for more information.


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Washington, DC (PRWEB) December 10, 2012
Computer Science Education Week (CSEdWeek), December 9-15, 2012, is a call to action to raise awareness about the importance of computer science education for K-12 students and its connection to careers in computing and many other fields. Thousands of students, teachers, business professionals, industry leaders, parents and others have pledged to raise awareness of this critical issue this week through worldwide events.
US Department of Labor projections show that in the next 10 years, more than 1.5 million high-wage jobs in the technology sector will be created in the U.S. economy, and five of the top ten fastest-growing jobs will be in computing-related fields. Yet, our current K-12 education system is not set up to help students take advantage of these future career opportunities. In fact, teaching of computer science in our K-12 education system has dramatically declined, and even the states that currently offer computer science classes most often do not count the credit toward graduation.
"Nationwide, less than one quarter of students have access to rigorous computer science courses—and the state of K12 computer science education is not getting any better," said Ruthe Farmer, 2012 CSEdWeek Chair and Director of Strategic Initiatives for the National Center for Women & Information Technology. "We are simply not realizing the full potential of the US talent pool. In order to fuel an innovation economy, we must provide students opportunities to explore this dynamic field and ultimately become the creators of the technologies of the future."
Studying computer science, regardless of a student's ultimate occupation, will provide the critical computational thinking skills, knowledge, and practices necessary to be successful in college or a career. However, few students have opportunities to learn computer science in early grades, leaving them unprepared to take engaging, rigorous computer science in high school. One of the goals of CSEdWeek is to promote efforts to expose students—particularly in grades K-12—to robust computer science education courses.
"It's imperative that we help students, parents, educators, and government officials understand that computer science will open doors for today's students—especially in the United States—and enable them to become tomorrow's successful business leaders, employees and innovators," said Alison Derbenwick Miller, CSEdWeek 2012 Vice Chair and Vice President of Oracle Academy. "Our broad community must work together to engage and excite students and ensure that all K-12 students have access to a continuous curriculum of rigorous computer science courses."
There are hundreds of events happening all across the country. Here are just a few:
Create an App in a Day - Atlanta, GA
Georgia Tech and Black Girls Code are collaborating to teach 80 African American middle school girls to program and build mobile apps using AppInventor.
Computer Science Fun Day - Birmingham, AL
Special needs students will participate in a day-long program on computer science and assistive technologies at the Lakeshore Foundation supported by a grant from The Computer Science Collaboration Project.
Bring CS to the Kids - Springfield, OR
Thinkersmith will host an event at Brattain House to bring computer science to K-12 students experiencing homelessness to open minds and increase access, while encouraging curiosity and confidence.
Visit http://www.csedweek.org to find an event near you or get the tools to help plan your own in your community.
Media Contact:
Stacey Finkel/703.304.1377/finkelstacey(at)gmail(dot)com
About Computer Science Education Week
CSEdWeek is a collaborative activity of Computing in the Core (CinC), a non-partisan advocacy coalition of associations, corporations, scientific societies, and other non-profits that strive to elevate computer science education to a core academic subject in K-12 education. CSEdWeek's core partners are the Association for Computing Machinery, Microsoft, Google, Computer Science Teachers Association, National Center for Women & IT, IEEE Computer Society, Oracle, Computing Research Association, College Board, Anita Borg Institute for Women in Technology, SAS, National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, and National Science Teachers Association. CSEdWeek is held annually in recognition of the birthday of computing pioneer Admiral Grace Murray Hopper (December 9, 1906).
Oracle and Java are registered trademarks of Oracle Corporation and it affiliates. Other names may be trademarks of their respective owners.


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Zootopia. Dir. Byron Howard and Rich Moore. Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures. 2016. https://zooscope.group.shef.ac.uk/wp-content/themes/crocal/images/empty/thumbnail.jpg 150 150 Emerald Kenny https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/37a8dd0c74890de100b848f2ae7c057a?s=96&d=mm&r=g
Dreams can be powerful things; and to Judy Hopps, no dream is greater than becoming Zootopia's first rabbit police officer. After years of chasing her goal however, Judy discovers that…read more


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The San Diego Chargers and Miami Dolphins battled for a full 60 minutes today, going back-and-forth and toe-to-toe until the Dolphins were able to win the game on a defensive play with no time remaining on the clock. The Dolphins move to .500, with a 5-5 record, thanks to the 20-16 win at home.
For a recap of the fourth quarter action, here's our custom Twitter timeline from it:
The game was not always pretty, and the Chargers are now two games below .500, and on a three game losing streak, for a reason. But, they were the team on the schedule, and the team the Dolphins had to beat. San Diego still has a fantastic offense, and are dangerous. Yet, Miami did stand up and win today.
Ryan Tannehill finished the game 22-for-35 for 268 yards, with one touchdown and one interception. It earned him an 84.0 rating. San Diego's Philip Rivers was 22-for-34 for 298 yards, with a touchdown and interception, and a 90.1 passer rating.
After rushing for just one yard last week, the Dolphins ran for 104 this week, with Daniel Thomas' 10-carries for 57 yards and a touchdown leading the way. Lamar Miller added four carries for 17 yards.
Charles Clay caught six passes for 90 yards and a touchdown, while Brian Hartline added five receptions for 65 yards. Rishard Matthews had four catches for 52 yards, and Mike Wallace added four completions for 39 yards. All of Wallace's receptions came in the first half, before he disappeared for most of the second.
The Dolphins defense saw Philip Wheeler lead the team with six tackles. Olivier Vernon, Cameron Wake, and Jared Odrick each recorded a sack, while Brent Grimes had an interceptions, as well as the game sealing pass defense.
Kicker Caleb Sturgis was two-for-two on field goals, while Brandon Fields averaged 52.3 yards per punt on four kicks.
Miami is now tied at 5-5 with the New York Jets, sitting in sixth place in the AFC. They face the Carolina Panthers in Miami next week, before heading to New York for the first of two meetings this season.
Miami Dolphins coverage:
Join the discussion: Sign up for your free Phinsider and SB Nation account


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What Everyone's Getting Wrong About the Toilet Paper Shortage
It isn't really about hoarding. And there isn't an easy fix.
Around the world, in countries afflicted with the coronavirus, stores are sold out of toilet paper. There have been shortages in Hong Kong, Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. And we all know who to blame: hoarders and panic-buyers.


text: Pucks Glen Posted by explorecowal on October 5, 2019 Posted in: Family, forestry commission, Walking. Tagged: Cowal, day, Explore, glen, pucks, walk. Leave a comment A quick visit to the glen with iPhone and tripod. Share this:TwitterFacebookLike this:Like Loading... Posts navigation ← Kayak to the Gantocks Garrochorran Hill trig point. Another great day in Sunoon, Costa Cowal. →


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"I may be very small and just so ordinary that I seem to blend in with the background
but, when I speak, my words are so beautiful that everybody stops to listen"….
This is what the Wren, with her beautifully powerful song, always seems to "say" to me; which is a timely message for our era and one we all need to take heart from. A reminder to lift up your voice and let it be heard. I'm noticing how there's another wren in almost every tree right now so lets become a chorus.
Big Voice is a brand new artwork in my garden bird series. Prints are available under the image listing in my Fur, Feather and Wing gallery or HERE as well as Cards via the menu above.


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Jim DeMint; this ode is for you You're as welcome to us as shit on a shoe Gave us Rubio, now Cruz You're the slime and the ooze And the stench of a foul public loo You now run the Heritage foundation Whose mission's to screw … Continue reading
So, if we Tea Party folk are so all-fired terrible then how is it we have as our leader one of the biggest movie stars in the world — or hadn't you heard? Does your liberal-socialist-democrat party have such a huge star leading it? I admit that Hollywood is a nest of commie-socialist-liberal pinkos, but … Continue reading
The members of GOOBER (Guns: Our Ordained Blessed Earthly Right) marched on Washington yesterday. Brandishing various assault rifles and semi-automatic handguns, thousands of GOOBERS descended upon our nation's capitol to demand understanding for people who slaughter other people in shooting sprees. "Whut we are askin' fer is jes' some common coitesy. We have been vilifahd … Continue reading
The channel for folks who are logically challenged Who cannot list thinking as one of their talents The channel of shit With news skewed to fit Minds that are equally unfair and unbalanced The channel of cartoons and bleach blonde news honeys Beholden to all of them Koch brother's monies The channel of muck … Continue reading
The other evening laundries in and around our nation's capital, as well as those of the very finest hotels, were kept buzzing deep into the early morning hours in a feverish attempt to get all the necessary sheets laundered, starched, and ironed, in order that the many delegates to the ultra-conservative Republican Values Voters conference … Continue reading
Kind ladies excuse me this once For the following ode re this dunce: Let's talk about Ken Cuccinelli (Does he think his wife's cooch is smelly?) Why else does he say he won't go Down there – oh… God told him "NO" "What's that God? no cunnilingus? Or fellatio or else you'll zing … Continue reading


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Royal Wedding
View gallery
8 Pictures
Sculptural hats and fascinators on show at the royal wedding
The custom of wearing an elaborate hat or fascinator on one's head is never more prevalent than at a royal wedding, and guests didn't disappoint during Prince Harry and Meghan's celebrations on Saturday.
Friends, family members and celebrity guests turned out in an array of colorful and sculptural hats, fascinators and hatinators, some crafted by the world's leading milliners.
From prominent human rights lawyer Amal Clooney in an artfully tilted canary yellow brim to US presenter Oprah Winfrey in a traditional cream wide-brimmed hat, there were plenty of interpretations of a look that is synonymous with British summer weddings.
For tastemaker and design expert Stephen Bayley, "A hat is not protection for the head, it's a demonstration of the soul. Every nuance of style, shape, color betrays the ambitions and status of its wearer. It may be a pretty scene, but it's also cruelly revealing."
Fashion commentator Caryn Franklin said Amal Clooney was radiant in yellow: "(It's) a wonderful tonal choice for her complexion."
Her hat, designed by Stephen Jones, was also adorned with a chic sequin detailed mini-veil.
"Already a seasoned performer in front of the camera, her body language and grace is polished," Franklin added of Clooney.
Winfrey wore a '70s inspired wide-brimmed hat by Philip Treacy -- embellished with an extravagant floral arrangement. Dressed in dusty pink and cream -- Winfrey takes on all the colors associated with springtime weddings.
This year, many guests arrived wearing three dimensional sculptural shapes -- with the majority going for bold styles where tradition meets contemporary.
That included Lady Kitty Spencer, who arrived at Windsor in a teal green fascinator with a knotted sculptural feature.
Fashion statement or a window into the soul, hats at weddings are always a talking point and this royal occasion proved no different.
Click through the gallery above to see the most extraordinary headpieces on show.


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The Columbus Chamber and Capital University have partnered to bring the first business-themed podcast to Columbus. During cbuzz, Columbus-based brand journalist Mikaela Hunt will speak with local business owners, entrepreneurs and community leaders and allow them to tell their story and highlight their organization, while further inspiring the entrepreneurial spirit that is buzzing in the city.
If the recommendations from from Jack Gravelle and Brett Thornton could be summed up in one ultimate piece of advice, it would be talk to a lawyer now, save yourself from potentially bigger (and often more costly!) mistakes later. When building your business, it can be all too easy to inadvertently violate a law without even realizing it.
During the cbuzz podcast, Gravelle and Thornton get down to the details on five of the biggest pitfalls that can affect small- and medium-sized businesses. Get a sneak preview below and listen to the full podcast to find out how each might apply to your business!
Pitfall #1 – Formation Follies
LLC or C Corp? Gravelle and Thornton debate the merits of business formation and how an entrepreneur can decide what's right for them. (Hint: it will always vary and might change during the lifecycle of your business.) The lawyers also explore the limitations – and benefits – of an S Corp.
Pitfall #2 – Capitalization Catastrophes
Avoiding capitalization catastrophes means having some frank conversations between business partners. That includes being honest about if a business is truly a 50-50 partnership. Gravelle says to think about theories of ownership: how do I get paid when the business makes money? How do I get money if the business sells or dissolves? Ask those questions and it's easier to have a conversation about capitalization.
Pitfall #3 – Fundraising Mistakes
No, you cannot go out and ask whoever you want, whenever you want, for money. Thornton and Gravelle explain why it's a no-go – and caution that securities laws are easy to unintentionally violate, leading to bigger problems down the line. Initial investors set the tone – is your business prepared to attract more sophisticated capital in the future? Plus, why you never want to over-promise or omit information. (Think Theranos.)
Pitfall #4 – Leaving Intellectual Property Unprotected
Intellectual property is another example of a facet of your business that's easy to get right if you talk to a lawyer from the beginning. Does your business have agreements in place with employees AND contractors? Business should protect their IP not just from threats outside the organization, but from within.
Pitfall #5 – Signing off on Third Party Contracts
Just because a deal looks good on paper, doesn't mean you should blindly sign. From loan agreements to leases, a once-over from a lawyer is never a bad idea. Some tenets of the contract may be unchangeable, but a lawyer can clear up provisions and other onerous terms.
Never miss a cbuzz podcast! Visit the Columbus Chamber website for more great stories and advice from local business owners.
— The Columbus Chamber of Commerce offers news, information and other resources that are free and available to all businesses at columbus.org. —


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Thanks for visiting our cottage kitchen photo gallery where you can search hundreds of cottage style kitchen design ideas. We hope you find your inspiration here. We add new designs every week.
Related: All Cottage-Style Homes | Cottage Style Foyer Ideas | Cottage Style Living Room Ideas | Cottage Style Dining Room Ideas | Cottage Style Primary Bedroom Ideas | Cottage Style Primary Bathroom Ideas
The charming kitchen has a hardwood flooring that goes well with the dark wood cabinetry of the large kitchen island. This also doubles as the breakfast bar with wrought iron stools topped with simple pendant lights. The high light of this kitchen is the surrounding windows.
This kitchen has a small black kitchen island that is contrasted by its white countertop that matches the cabinetry lining the walls. These houses stainless steel appliances.
This charming Cottage-style kitchen hard flooring tiles that look like wood panels. This pairs well with the white kitchen island that has white shaker cabinets topped with white marble countertop and a couple of decorative pendant lights.
The hardwood flooring of this Cottage-style kitchen matches well with the butcher block countertop of the wooden kitchen island with shaker cabinets. This matches well with the surrounding white cabinetry that blends with the white ceiling.
This small Cottage-style kitchen makes up for its small light hardwood flooring with a U-shaped peninsula that has dark countertops and white cabinets that contrast the appliances. The surrounding glass windows and doors also serve to make space appear bigger.
The gray marble tile flooring is a nice complement to the gray marble countertops of the U-shaped peninsula of the Cottage-style kitchen. It also matches well with the stainless steel appliances that contrast the white shaker cabinets and drawers.
This unique Cottage-style kitchen blends well with the stark white walls with its white kitchen island and the large structure that houses the appliances. These structures are complemented by the light hardwood flooring.
This small Cottage-style kitchen has a matte black kitchen island that matches with the large structure housing the cooking area with modern cabinets. These stand in contrast with the white walls and the white tall cathedral ceiling.
The black ceiling of this Cottage-style kitchen is traversed by exposed wooden beams and hangs a gorgeous black chandelier. This ceiling matches well with the cabinetry of the kitchen with the same tones topped with a beige marble countertop.
The white cabinetry of this Cottage-style kitchen stands out against the dark wooden walls that bring a nice contrast to the plain tones. The kitchen island in the middle of the light gray floor has a gray marble waterfall countertop paired with four stools.
This Cottage-style kitchen has a touch of a modern look to its sleek black countertops and white ceiling with a long skylight above the cooking area and faucet area. The black kitchen island is topped with a number of glass pendant lights that elevate the aesthetics of the kitchen.
An eat-in kitchen with hardwood flooring and white framed windows dressed in green dotted valances and sheer curtains. It has a dark wood center island and a curved peninsula lined with wooden bar stools.
White cabinetry surrounds a small central island over the rich hardwood flooring. This kitchen has stainless steel appliances and gray backsplash tiles against the sage green walls.
Wrought iron stools sit at a white breakfast island topped with a light wood counter. It is illuminated by a pair of glass globe pendants and recessed ceiling lights.
Warm kitchen features white cabinetry and a wooden island bar fitted with a round sink and chrome fixtures. It is accompanied by glass dome pendants and cushioned counter chairs that blend in with the hardwood flooring.
An open kitchen with natural hardwood flooring and glazed windows covered in classy valances. It has white cabinetry and a matching bar topped with marble counter.
Cottage kitchen showcases stainless steel appliances and white cabinetry against the brick backsplash. It includes a wooden top breakfast bar with black cushioned chairs lighted by recessed ceiling lights.
This kitchen offers an immense island bar with granite countertop under large pendant lights. It includes white and wooden cabinetry that complements the ceiling lined with an exposed beam.
Burgundy chairs sit at a dark wood kitchen island lighted by black dome pendants. It is surrounded by stainless steel appliances and white cabinetry against the stone brick backsplash.
A pair of glass dome pendants hang over the kitchen island topped with an L-shaped eating counter. It is accompanied by white cabinetry and a framed window that invites natural light in.
Stainless steel appliances compliment the chrome pendant lights that hung over the gray breakfast island topped with white marble counter. It is accompanied by white cabinetry and barstools over wide plank flooring.
Cottage kitchen with limestone flooring and tray ceiling mounted with recessed lights and black dome pendants. It includes white cabinetry and a beadboard breakfast bar lined with black counter chairs.
Red leather chairs stand out in this kitchen with white cabinetry and a breakfast island illuminated by glass pendant lights. It boasts a stainless steel range with an alcove hood designed with a decorative plate above the mantel.
White cabinetry and inset appliances surround an immense central island fitted with a sink and chrome faucet. It is paired with white cushioned stools that blend in with the hardwood flooring.
An ornate chandelier hangs over the kitchen bar lined with zebra counter chairs. It is accompanied by white cabinetry and a gray vent hood fixed above the subway backsplash tiles.
Homey kitchen features black granite countertops and white cabinetry matching with the island bar that's paired with stylish wooden chairs. It has natural hardwood flooring and framed windows dressed in red striped valances.
Cottage kitchen with inset appliances and white cabinetry contrasted by a dark wood breakfast island that's topped with a marble counter and dual sink. It is illuminated by glass globe pendants and recessed ceiling lights.
An aqua island bar lined with wooden bar stools adds a nice accent in this white kitchen with rich hardwood flooring and framed windows bringing plenty of natural light in. It includes a shiplap ceiling mounted with recessed lights and chrome pendants.
Cozy kitchen showcases white cabinetry and a granite top center island paired with metal cushioned chairs. It is illuminated by a vintage pendant along with recessed lights fitted on the cathedral ceiling.
Chrome pendant lights illuminate the gray breakfast island that's fitted with dual sink and a gooseneck faucet. It is accompanied by white cabinetry and black range hood against the brick backsplash.
White cushioned chairs sit at a central island topped with a smooth wooden counter. It is surrounded by white cabinetry and stainless steel appliances.
Clad in plant patterned wallpaper, this kitchen offers white cabinetry and a peninsula topped with black granite counters. It is paired with round metal chairs that are fitted with leather cushions.
Spacious kitchen with wooden cabinetry and a white stove alcove inlaid with ornate carvings. It includes a granite top breakfast island with wrought iron chairs lighted by a gorgeous chandelier and recessed ceiling lights.
Simple kitchen boasts white cabinetry and a beadboard breakfast bar fitted with a built-in cooktop. It includes mini pendant lights and inset appliances in stainless steel.
White cabinetry with inset appliances surrounds a beadboard center island paired with black leather cushioned stools. It is illuminated by a stylish pendant light that hung from the wood beam ceiling.
A tiled floor centerpiece complements the beige backsplash tiles fixed above the black granite countertops. This kitchen features white cabinetry and a dark wood breakfast island with stainless steel pot rack overhead.
A fancy glass pendant along with recessed ceiling lights illuminate this kitchen showcasing white cabinetry and beadboard central island paired with distressed counter chairs.
This kitchen offers a white breakfast bar with round metal stools along with light wood cabinetry that complements the backsplash tiles mounted with a stainless steel vent hood.
Ambient light from the pendant and recessed ceiling lights create a warm and cozy feel in this kitchen with white cabinetry and a matching island bar accompanied by wooden counter chairs.
Bright kitchen with concrete tiled flooring and glazed windows overlooking the outdoor scenery. It has a wooden central island and cabinetry fixed against the white subway backsplash tiles.
Cottage kitchen with concrete flooring and green tiled walls fitted with inset cabinetry and appliances. There's a breakfast bar in the middle lined with sleek stools.
This kitchen boasts gray cabinetry and a stainless steel range under subway tile backsplash. It has black tiled flooring and white walls mounted with wooden floating shelves.
White eat-in kitchen with wide plank flooring and a cathedral ceiling lined with rustic wood beams. It includes a candle chandelier and a wooden dining table paired with round back chairs.
Large dome pendants hang over the immense kitchen island paired with wooden round chairs. It is surrounded by stainless steel appliances and white cabinetry topped with black countertops.
A gray beadboard island stands out against the white cabinetry and shiplap walls. This kitchen showcases a rustic buffet table and a vintage chandelier that hung from the wood beam ceiling.
Bright kitchen decorated with lovely artworks that are mounted on the beadboard walls. It has a double kitchen island and white cabinets along with a charming striped rug that lays on the wide plank flooring.
A red breakfast island adds a striking accent in this airy kitchen with limestone flooring and regular ceiling lined with rustic beams. There's a round dining set by the white-framed windows lighted by a glass dome pendant.
High ceiling kitchen features a skylight and chrome pendant lights that hung over the black breakfast bar paired with dark wood stools. It includes white cabinetry and classic runners that lay on the hardwood flooring.
A pair of lantern pendants along with recessed lights fitted on the shiplap ceiling illuminate this spacious kitchen offering stainless steel appliances and a white center island with built-in storage and wine fridge.
Cottage kitchen boasts white cabinetry and a matching island bar with wooden countertop contrasted by black appliances. It has a beadboard backsplash and a light gray wall mounted with black framed photos.
Kitchen with granite countertops, a multi-use island, and wooden cabinets that match the hardwood flooring.
The eat-in kitchen offers stainless steel appliances, a cooktop island, wooden cabinets, and floating shelves fixed against the white shiplap wall.
Spacious kitchen with white cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, and a center island topped with warm glass pendants.
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Tim Tebow's latest visit to Florida Field looked like most of the others. He was cheered, revered and pulled in every direction.
This time, though, it wasn't just screaming fans gushing over him.
The 2007 Heisman Trophy winner was the star attraction at the University of Florida's pro day Wednesday, receiving rave reviews from NFL scouts, coaches and general managers after he unveiled his new, compact throwing motion.
Mayock's take on Gators
Believe it or not, Tim Tebow wasn't the only player to work out at Florida's pro day. NFL Network analyst Mike Mayock offers his thoughts on the other Gators prospects. **More ...**
The bulky left-hander threw dozens of passes to former teammates Riley Cooper, Aaron Hernandez and David Nelson during a 30-minute workout, spoke with several NFL executives and even found time to play catch with a kid who was confined to a wheelchair.
Whether or not Tebow's performance influenced teams to draft him in the first round, he has been extended an invitation to attend the NFL Draft in New York. Neither Tebow nor his agent, Jimmy Sexton, has accepted as of Wednesday, according to NFL.com analyst Gil Brandt, who is responsible for extending the invitations.
"I had an hour conversation with (Tebow) a week ago Sunday; he was just finishing up a game of basketball," Brandt said. "I asked him, 'What would you think if we invited you to the draft? Would you go?' He said that he has a tight-knit family and that he'd talk it over with them."
Brandt said he also talked with Sexton and was expecting an answer last weekend but hasn't heard back.
About 75 NFL scouts, coaches and executives showed up Wednesday to see Tebow throw in his first open workout since the Senior Bowl. Among those in attendance: Carolina Panthers general manager Marty Hurney and coach John Fox; Cleveland Browns president Mike Holmgren, GM Tom Heckert and coach Eric Mangini; Pittsburgh Steelers director of football operations Kevin Colbert and coach Mike Tomlin; New York Giants GM Jerry Reese and coach Tom Coughlin; Jacksonville Jaguars GM Gene Smith and offensive line coach Andy Heck; Tampa Bay Buccaneers GM Mark Dominik and coach Raheem Morris; and Green Bay Packers GM Ted Thompson.
"He had a very, very good workout," Fox said. "He doesn't lack in the work-ethic department, so whatever needs to be done, he'll do. I definitely saw some adjustment, and I thought he executed very well."
About 3,000 fans also showed up despite cool temperatures and light rain. They loudly cheered as Tebow walked into The Swamp for the first time since his home finale in November, applauded every completion and groaned whenever a ball hit the ground -- surely blaming the receiver.
"This is a little different," Holmgren said. "I think if it had been a sunny day, we might have filled this place."
Cornerback Joe Haden, defensive end Carlos Dunlap, linebacker Brandon Spikes, center Maurkice Pouncey, safety Major Wright and several other Florida players worked out before Tebow. Defensive end Jermaine Cunningham (shoulder), kick returner Brandon James (ankle) and linebacker Ryan Stamper (back) sat out because of injuries.
Haden and Dunlap improved their 40-yard dash times from the NFL Scouting Combine -- both probably boosted their draft stock -- but Spikes failed to break the 5-second mark on soggy grass.
Their performances, though, were clearly overshadowed by Tebow. He spent the last two months fine-tuning his new motion, which includes smaller strides, holding the ball higher and eliminating a long, looping release that had experts cringing and analysts calling for him to move to tight end or H-back.
Tebow worked with longtime NFL assistant Zeke Bratkowski, former coach Sam Wyche and ex-college/NFL assistant Marc Trestman.
"I made a lot of changes and improved on a lot of things," Tebow said. "There's still a lot of room for improvement, a lot of things that I think I can get better at, and I'll continue to work on it, continue to get better. But I think I made a lot of strides."
The NFL personnel on hand seemed to take notice.
"I know he's been working at it, and if anybody can do it, it would be him," said Smith, the Jaguars GM who has been urged by his Florida fan base -- to a degree -- to select the home-state quarterback. "He certainly has a will to prepare. People say there's always exceptions to the rule. If there's going to be one at the quarterback spot, it will be him in terms of going against everything everybody has said negative about him with the long release.
"He's out to prove to everybody he's certainly capable of competing at our level."
Added Morris: "He didn't miss many throws. He came out, did what he had to do. He's a talented guy, he's a popular guy, he's a sharp guy, he's a smart guy, he's had success all his career, and I'm sure nothing will be different when he goes to the next level."
Maybe so, but there's still plenty of debate surrounding Tebow's draft stock. Some point to his drive, determination, winning record and other intangibles as reasons he should be a first-round pick. Others insist his passing skills are more in line with a mid-round selection.
"Clearly, he's a special young man," Holmgren said. "You can tell he's trying to make adjustments to his motion. That seems to be what people are fired up about, and he's working very hard to do that, and it showed today. I thought he had a pretty good workout."
Holmgren called Tebow's changes subtle and said the next step would be to prove that his mechanics hold up in games and under pressure.
"Those of us that know the position a little bit and watch the position and have coached the position, you saw it," Holmgren said. "You saw he's worked hard on changing some of his technique, and I root for him. He's a wonderful young man. I pull for guys like that, and he's going to make some team very happy."
Still, Holmgren wasn't sure that Tebow even needed to tweak anything.
"I think there are still some questions about that," Holmgren said. "I don't think everybody in the room thinks he needs to change dramatically, so we'll see where it goes."
The Associated Press contributed to this report.


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A collaborative of water and wastewater utilities and public health agencies from across the nation and chaired by the SFPUC has received the President's Award for Excellence for the group's leadership in advancing onsite water reuse. The award was announced at the 34th annual WateReuse Symposium held this week in San Diego.
As a pioneer in the innovative use of water in the urban environment, the SFPUC has been leading a diverse group of utilities, municipalities, and public health agencies since 2014 to address challenges to widespread adoption of onsite water reuse. The SFPUC formalized the partnership and established the National Blue Ribbon Commission for Onsite Non-potable Water Systems along with the US Water Alliance, the Water Research Foundation and WateReuse. Today, the group is comprised of more than 30 members representing 12 states and the District of Columbia.
The collaborative has made significant research contributions and advanced policies and regulations for onsite water reuse over the years. Leveraging funding from the Water Research Foundation, the collabortive has researched reports, guidebooks, and most recently, a training manual for designing and permitting onsite water systems were developed.
Buoyed by the leadership of the commission, numerous states, including California, Colorado, Minnesota, Washington state, Oregon, and Washington D.C. are currently advancing regulations and policies supporting onsite water reuse programs. Several other states including Texas and Alaska are considering similar steps forward.
The SFPUC has long been a leader in onsite water recycling programs. In 2012, San Francisco passed an ordinance allowing for the collection, treatment, and use of alternate water sources for non-potable applications in individual buildings and at the district-scale. Earlier this year, the SFPUC celebrated the launch of the largest private onsite water recycling project in San Francisco.
Along with being honored for its work with the National Blue Ribbon Commission, the SFPUC's Paula Kehoe received the Advocacy Achievement at the WaterReuse Symposium. That honor recognizes individuals who are making significant contributions in support of greater adoption of water reuse. As the Director of Water Resources, Kehoe oversees a team dedicated to developing new high-quality local water sources while diversifying the SFPUC's water supplies.