Authoritarian Parallels: Comparing Trump to Putin's Rule in Russia

Donald Trump’s political style and desires for governing America can be described as exhibiting authoritarian tendencies, though the U.S. retains a robust democratic system with strong institutions that counterbalance executive power. Trump's autocratic orientation follows the tyrant's playbook of disinformation and all that encompasses. First and foremost in combatting this kind of person and orientation is knowledge, facts, fact-checking, and educating the public.

Jon Stewart with Bill Adair of Politifact - “Beyond the Big Lie” | The Daily Show. PolitiFact.com was started in August 2007 by Times Washington Bureau Chief Bill Adair, in conjunction with the Congressional Quarterly. - Wikipedia

It's important to note that Donald Trump is, aside from being an exPOTUS, twice impeached and also a convicted felon of "all 34 charges in a scheme to illegally influence the 2016 election through a hush money payment to a porn actor who said the two had sex."

Vladimir Putin is a war criminal for his invasion of Ukraine. To be fair, he has committed war crimes in other countries over this far too long rule of Russia since 1999. 

See sections II and III below for more on Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin's international or national crimes.

Section I - Trump/Putin, a comparison

To draw parallels between Trump’s approach and Russia under Putin, there are a few key areas to consider:

1. Concentration of Power and Undermining Checks and Balances

• Putin: In Russia, Putin has significantly centralized power, weakening democratic institutions and neutralizing checks on his authority.
• Trump: Trump has shown a desire to centralize power, often expressing frustration with checks on his authority by the judiciary, Congress, and state governments. For instance, he frequently criticized judges who ruled against him and pushed for loyalty from government officials, including the Justice Department. His refusal to concede the 2020 election and attempts to overturn the results through legal challenges, pressure on state officials, and ultimately the January 6 Capitol riot demonstrate this desire to weaken checks on executive power.

2. Disregard for Democratic Norms

• Putin: Putin has been accused of manipulating elections, suppressing opposition, and curbing political freedoms.
• Trump: While the U.S. elections remain competitive, Trump frequently spread misinformation about electoral fraud, especially after the 2020 election. His claims of a "stolen election" culminated in efforts to delegitimize the democratic process. Critics argue that this behavior undermines trust in democratic institutions and erodes democratic norms.

3. Attacks on Media

• Putin: The Russian media is tightly controlled, and independent journalism is often met with intimidation, censorship, or violence. The Kremlin exerts control over the flow of information.
• Trump: While the media in the U.S. remains free, Trump frequently attacked the press, calling it the "enemy of the people" and discrediting news outlets critical of him. This rhetoric created a hostile environment for journalists and fostered distrust in the media, similar to how authoritarian leaders delegitimize independent scrutiny.

4. Nationalism and Populism

• Putin: Putin’s governance has been marked by strong nationalism, emphasizing Russia’s unique identity, traditional values, and its role as a great power, often positioning himself as the protector of these values.
• Trump: Trump’s “America First” rhetoric shares a parallel with Putin’s nationalism. Trump positioned himself as a populist leader fighting against elites, promising to restore American greatness and protect American jobs, borders, and values. His appeal to a populist base often involved stoking fears about immigrants and foreign threats, much like Putin uses similar rhetoric to consolidate power.

5. Desire for Loyalty and Weakening of Institutions

• Putin: Putin’s political system is heavily reliant on personal loyalty, with political figures, oligarchs, and state officials expected to align closely with the Kremlin’s interests or face repercussions.
• Trump: Trump often demanded personal loyalty from key figures in government, firing officials who disagreed with or criticized him, such as FBI Director James Comey. He was also critical of those within his own administration who did not publicly support his claims, particularly regarding the 2020 election.

6. Cult of Personality

• Putin: In Russia, Putin has cultivated a cult of personality, presenting himself as a strongman leader who is indispensable to Russia’s future.
• Trump: Trump similarly cultivated a personality-driven political movement, with much of his appeal stemming from his personal brand, charisma, and outsider status. His ability to maintain strong loyalty from a significant portion of the electorate reflects a similar phenomenon, where support for the leader sometimes eclipses traditional party or policy loyalties.

Key Differences:

Despite these parallels, the U.S. system of government has far stronger checks and balances compared to Russia. The U.S. Congress, judiciary, free press, and civil society institutions have, to date, successfully restrained Trump’s more authoritarian-leaning tendencies. Elections in the U.S. remain free and competitive, and Trump’s attempts to overturn the 2020 election were ultimately unsuccessful due to these institutional safeguards.

In summary, while Trump has exhibited certain authoritarian tendencies, the U.S. remains a functioning democracy with stronger safeguards against the concentration of power, in contrast to Putin’s much more consolidated, authoritarian rule in Russia. 

The concern, as some see it, is that Trump’s political style may continue to erode democratic norms and institutions if left unchecked.

Section II - Donald Trump, crimes

Since Donald Trump’s election as President of the United States in 2016, there have been numerous allegations of unlawful actions, ethical violations, and efforts to undermine democratic institutions, though these have largely played out in domestic legal and political arenas rather than in the realm of international criminal law. Below are the key controversies and legal actions related to Trump’s conduct during his presidency and after:

1. Obstruction of Justice (Mueller Investigation)

• Context: The Mueller investigation (2017-2019) examined Russian interference in the 2016 election and potential collusion between Trump’s campaign and Russia. Special Counsel Robert Mueller’s report documented numerous instances where Trump may have attempted to obstruct the investigation.
• Key Allegations:
  • Trump allegedly directed aides to fire Mueller and sought to limit the scope of the investigation.
  • The report outlined at least 10 episodes of potential obstruction of justice but concluded that a sitting president could not be indicted based on Department of Justice policy.
• Outcome: Mueller’s report did not explicitly recommend charges but left the door open for Congress to pursue impeachment or other actions, stating, "while this report does not conclude that the President committed a crime, it also does not exonerate him."

2. Ukraine Scandal and Impeachment (2019)

• Context: In July 2019, Trump was accused of withholding military aid to Ukraine while pressuring Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to investigate Trump’s political rival, Joe Biden, and his son Hunter.
• Key Allegations:
  • Trump allegedly used the promise of $400 million in military aid to coerce Ukraine into announcing investigations into Biden, a potential 2020 opponent, in what many considered an abuse of presidential power.
  • This led to his first impeachment by the House of Representatives in December 2019 on charges of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress.
• Outcome: Trump was acquitted by the Senate in February 2020, with the majority of Republican senators voting against conviction, arguing that the charges did not rise to the level of removal from office.

3. Incitement of the January 6 Capitol Insurrection (2021)

• Context: After losing the 2020 presidential election to Joe Biden, Trump repeatedly made unfounded claims that the election had been "stolen" due to widespread voter fraud. On January 6, 2021, Trump gave a speech to his supporters in Washington, D.C., urging them to "fight like hell" and "stop the steal," shortly before they stormed the U.S. Capitol.
• Key Allegations:
  • Trump was accused of inciting an insurrection aimed at preventing Congress from certifying the Electoral College results.
  • His actions and rhetoric were seen as an attack on the peaceful transfer of power and a violation of democratic norms.
• Outcome: Trump was impeached for a second time by the House of Representatives, on charges of incitement of insurrection. However, he was acquitted by the Senate in February 2021, as a majority of Republican senators voted against conviction.
• Legal Fallout: While Trump was acquitted, investigations into the events of January 6, 2021, are ongoing, and some individuals close to Trump, including advisors and supporters, have faced legal consequences.

4. Election Interference and Legal Challenges Post-2020 Election

• Efforts to Overturn Election Results: Trump’s attempts to overturn the results of the 2020 election through baseless claims of widespread voter fraud led to dozens of lawsuits, none of which successfully overturned any state’s results. Many of these lawsuits were dismissed by courts due to lack of evidence.
• Georgia Election Interference: Trump pressured Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger in a phone call to "find 11,780 votes" to overturn Biden’s victory in the state. This led to investigations into potential election interference.
• Investigations: The Justice Department, state authorities, and the January 6 House Select Committee have investigated Trump’s post-election actions, including his role in promoting false claims about the election and his involvement in the January 6 insurrection.

5. Financial Crimes and Tax Evasion

• New York Investigations: Trump and his businesses have been under investigation in New York for years. These investigations include:
  • Manhattan District Attorney’s Investigation: Examines Trump’s business practices, focusing on potential bank, tax, and insurance fraud. In 2021, Trump’s company, the Trump Organization, and its chief financial officer Allen Weisselberg were charged with tax fraud.
  • New York Attorney General’s Investigation: This civil investigation looks at whether the Trump Organization inflated the value of assets to secure loans and understated them to avoid taxes.
• Tax Evasion Allegations: A 2020 New York Times investigation revealed that Trump had paid little to no federal income tax for several years, raising questions about his financial practices.

6. Classified Documents Investigation (Mar-a-Lago Raid, 2022)

• Context: After leaving office, Trump took classified documents, including top-secret materials, to his residence at Mar-a-Lago in Florida. Despite repeated requests from the National Archives and the FBI, he failed to return all of the materials.
• FBI Investigation: In August 2022, the FBI raided Mar-a-Lago, recovering hundreds of classified documents, leading to an ongoing investigation into whether Trump violated the Espionage Act, mishandled classified information, or obstructed justice by withholding documents.
• Legal Outcome: In 2023, Trump was indicted on federal charges related to the mishandling of classified documents, including willfully retaining national defense information and obstructing justice.

7. Hush Money Payments and Fraud Allegations

• Stormy Daniels Case: Trump was accused of directing his lawyer, Michael Cohen, to make hush money payments to adult film actress Stormy Daniels ahead of the 2016 election to silence claims of an affair. This led to investigations into whether these payments constituted campaign finance violations.
• Legal Fallout: Cohen was convicted and jailed for his role in the scheme, but Trump has consistently denied any wrongdoing.

8. Civil and Sexual Assault Lawsuits

• E. Jean Carroll Case: In 2023, a jury found Trump liable for sexual abuse and defamation against E. Jean Carroll, a journalist who accused Trump of assaulting her in the mid-1990s. The case was a civil lawsuit, and Trump was ordered to pay damages, though he continues to deny the allegations.

9. International Violations

While Trump’s controversies are primarily domestic, some of his actions have raised international legal concerns:

• Withdrawal from International Treaties: Trump unilaterally withdrew the U.S. from several key international agreements, including the Iran Nuclear Deal and the Paris Climate Accord, sparking concern about the violation of international commitments.
• Targeting of Qassem Soleimani: In 2020, Trump ordered a drone strike that killed Iranian General Qassem Soleimani in Iraq. The strike was controversial and raised questions about its legality under international law, with critics calling it an unlawful assassination.

Conclusion:

Donald Trump’s tenure as President has been marked by numerous legal and ethical controversies, ranging from obstruction of justice and abuse of power to financial crimes and incitement of violence. While some investigations are still ongoing, Trump has faced two impeachments, criminal indictments, and multiple civil lawsuits, though he has largely evaded direct legal consequences while in office. The fallout from his presidency continues to play out in courts and public opinion.

Section III - Vladimir Putin, crimes

Since Vladimir Putin took power in 1999, there have been numerous allegations of international crimes and serious human rights abuses attributed to his government, both domestically and internationally. These are often categorized as crimes under international law and include:

1. War Crimes in Chechnya (1999-2009)

• Conflict: During the Second Chechen War, Russian forces under Putin’s command were accused of committing war crimes, including indiscriminate bombing of civilian areas in Chechnya, summary executions, torture, and disappearances.
• Key Allegations: The bombing of Grozny, the Chechen capital, led to mass civilian casualties and destruction, drawing international criticism. Human rights groups like Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International have documented widespread abuses by Russian forces in the region.

2. Assassinations and Poisonings of Political Opponents

• Pattern of Attacks: Under Putin’s rule, several political opponents, journalists, and former intelligence agents have been assassinated or poisoned, often with radioactive or chemical agents. High-profile cases include:
  • Alexander Litvinenko (2006): A former Russian FSB officer poisoned with polonium-210 in London.
  • Sergei Skripal (2018): A former Russian spy poisoned with the nerve agent Novichok in the UK, leading to international sanctions.
  • Alexei Navalny (2020): A Russian opposition leader poisoned with Novichok, a nerve agent banned by international treaties.
• Responsibility: While Russian authorities deny involvement, investigations in the UK, Germany, and other countries have implicated the Russian state, including its intelligence agencies, in these attacks, which violate international law prohibiting assassination and the use of chemical weapons.

3. Annexation of Crimea (2014)

• Crime: The annexation of Crimea from Ukraine in 2014 violated international law, including the UN Charter and the Helsinki Final Act, which guarantee territorial integrity and sovereignty. Russia’s seizure of Crimea was widely condemned by the international community, and many countries, including the U.S. and EU, imposed sanctions on Russia.
• Consequences: The annexation led to the ongoing conflict in Eastern Ukraine, and it is considered a breach of the international norm against territorial conquest.

4. War Crimes in Syria (2015-Present)

• Russian Involvement: Russia’s military intervention in the Syrian Civil War to support Bashar al-Assad’s regime has led to allegations of war crimes. Russian airstrikes have targeted civilian infrastructure, including hospitals, schools, and markets, causing widespread civilian deaths.
• Key Incidents: Human rights organizations and UN bodies have documented the deliberate targeting of civilians and civilian objects in Aleppo and other parts of Syria by Russian forces, which could constitute war crimes under international law.

5. War Crimes and Crimes Against Humanity in Ukraine (2022-Present)

• Invasion of Ukraine: Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 has been characterized as a violation of the UN Charter and other international laws prohibiting aggressive war.
• War Crimes: Russian forces have been accused of committing war crimes during the invasion, including:
  • Deliberate targeting of civilians: Bombing of residential areas, schools, hospitals, and shelters, such as the bombing of Mariupol’s maternity hospital and theater, resulting in civilian deaths.
  • Mass atrocities: The discovery of mass graves and evidence of executions and torture in towns like Bucha, where Russian forces allegedly committed systematic atrocities against civilians.
  • Forced deportation of civilians, including children, to Russia.
• International Response: Several investigations are underway, including by the International Criminal Court (ICC), which has issued an arrest warrant for Putin for war crimes related to the illegal deportation of Ukrainian children.

6. Cyberattacks and Election Interference

• Election Meddling: Russian state actors have been accused of interfering in the elections of several countries, most notably the 2016 U.S. presidential election, where Russian hackers and social media campaigns sought to influence the outcome.
• Cyber Warfare: Russian-linked cyberattacks against critical infrastructure in other countries, including Ukraine, Estonia, and the U.S., have been seen as violations of international law, particularly under norms against interference in sovereign states.

7. Support for Separatists and Proxy Wars

• Ukraine (Donbas Conflict): Since 2014, Russia has supported separatists in Eastern Ukraine’s Donbas region, supplying them with weapons, funding, and military personnel. This support contributed to the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 in 2014 by a Russian-supplied missile, killing all 298 people on board. International investigations have concluded that Russia bears responsibility for this crime.
• Other Conflicts: Russia has been involved in backing separatist movements and authoritarian regimes in countries like Georgia (Abkhazia and South Ossetia) and Moldova (Transnistria), in violation of international sovereignty norms.

8. Human Rights Abuses Against LGBTQ+ and Minority Groups

• Domestic Repression: Russia under Putin has seen widespread violations of human rights, including:
  • Crackdowns on political dissent.
  • Persecution of LGBTQ+ individuals, especially in regions like Chechnya, where gay men have reportedly been abducted, tortured, and murdered in anti-LGBTQ+ purges.
• Suppression of Ethnic Minorities: Russia has been accused of committing crimes against minority groups within its borders, particularly in the North Caucasus region, with reports of torture, extrajudicial killings, and disappearances.

9. State-Sponsored Extraterritorial Killings

• Pattern: Beyond high-profile poisonings, there is a broader pattern of extraterritorial killings of Putin’s critics or former Russian agents abroad. These acts violate international laws prohibiting political assassinations on foreign soil.

International Legal Responses:

While there have been sanctions, diplomatic condemnations, and ongoing investigations, Putin and other top Russian officials have largely evaded accountability through legal mechanisms like the International Criminal Court (ICC), as Russia does not recognize the ICC’s jurisdiction. However, the ICC’s 2023 arrest warrant for Putin for war crimes related to the deportation of Ukrainian children marked a significant legal step.

Conclusion:

Vladimir Putin’s government has been linked to a wide array of serious international crimes, from war crimes in Chechnya, Syria, and Ukraine to assassinations, election interference, and human rights abuses. Although international legal consequences have been limited, ongoing investigations by the ICC and other bodies could bring further charges in the future.

Summary

Putin and Trump must both be barred from and/or removed from, any positions of public office or leadership, now or in the future. They must also be convicted of their crimes by a fair and partial and actual appropriate judge and jury of their peers in such a way that those things actually happen so they can be properly adjudicated for their actual and to be fair, quite obvious crimes.

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Information generated using ChatGPT, an AI language model by OpenAI.

The Art and the Artist: Navigating Ethical Dilemmas in a World of Controversial Creators

I grew up admiring figures such as Woody Allen, Bill Cosby, even O.J. Simpson, and others who have since been revealed to have led questionable, even criminal lives. Despite this, their artistic contributions remain significant. The challenge lies in how one can separate their work from their personal misconduct. Of if one should. What happens to the consumer of such "scandalized" or "discredited"  artists and performers who have proven to be "disgraced", or a become a too "controversial" figure?

I'll get to the point but first this is going to be a bit of a trip around the block...

While I still appreciate Allen’s art I now find it difficult. But I cannot avoid it as I had studied his work along with Alfred Hitchcock and Stanley Kubrick at university. But expressing such things could expose one to criticism. As an artist myself, would it impact my professional standing? Should it? Shouldn't it? How can one ethically navigate this dilemma, balancing an appreciation for their art with an acknowledgment of their behavior? Especially when they have become unavoidably integral to who I am as a person and an artist?

What do you do with that? Even if one is not an artist and as a consumer who once enjoyed their works. This has bothered me for some time now. I have my own thoughts on it but it occurred to me to ask an AI what it thinks. First off, what do I think?

In point of fact, it pisses me off! It pisses me off because these artists whose lives were so warped, first they did those things to those they did them to. Then once you get past that, because they got us to buy into their brilliance and decades later waylaid those of us as fans with reveals of their despicable acts. But it's not them but their products and the brilliance of what hey produced. Respecting their minds, and their talents, but not their personal lives. I've always tried to give them their personal lives. They, most of them, deserve their privacy. 

So getting past all that, maybe ask the AI and see if it's more clear headed about the topic. Often when I do that I get an answer that includes things I had forgotten to consider, even though I would have later. Or it offers things I had not or would not consider. Or offers a new perspective.

So I asked ChatGPT what it thought.

But first, how did this come up. Well? That's a story. Two weeks ago I started binge-watching The West Wing. I'd tried to do that during the Trump presidency but I couldn't. I found it too depressing. Even though the staff at MSNBC was doing that to get THEM through that clown show. So when I considered it recently I thought I'd give it another try.

It worked. Took about a week to get through all 7 seasons. I learned a lot. Like Aaron Sorkin is a genius. Also, that Bradly Whitford and Lawrence O'Donnell were writers and actors on that show. I had a great time watching it. I did some research and found after that show, Sorkin did Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip. 

Then The Newsroom. Which has one of the greatest opening scenes to a series perhaps ever (video). I'd watched The Newsroom when it was first on TV and loved it when it was on. But not Studio 60, about a Saturday Night Live type sketch show. 

I loved SNL when it arrived in 1975. I was sitting alone at home one night in Spokane in my downtown apartment waiting on my wife to get off work at the hospital a few blocks up the hill from me at midnight.

I was sitting on the couch wrapping the scabbard of my 14th-century Wakasashi (long story about how I got that for $2 in 1973 from a friend after we'd just graduated high school, hanging at my girlfriend's apartment. He was a garbage man and had found it in pieced on a garbage can. I'd offered him $2 thinking he'd laugh at me. He laughed at me and said, "Cool! Cost of a torpedo!" A "torpedo" is about 66 ounces of beer. 

I was alone at home wrapping the scabbard in string so it would not fall off, it's still wrapped from that. Then I painted it black. While I was doing that, took a couple of hours, I looked in TV Guide and saw Saturday Night Live was on. Never heard of it so I put it on. Long story short, it was amazing. 

Anyway, after binging The West Wing, I found The Newsroom on the MAX streaming channel and watched it. I got the idea to see if I could get the DVDs. I found them on ebay and bought them. Then I found Studio 60. Which just arrived and I'm watching it now. I can remember when it was first on TV but I ignored it back in 2007 not knowing what it was about and anyway, I wanted to watch The Unit about spec ops team, a show created by David Mamet, of whom I've long been a fan. Since studying screenwriting at university in the early 80s.

I thought about getting The West Wing DVDs but 7 years? That's about $80 so I figured I'd hold off. I'm really liking Studio 60. On the wall in Matthew Perry's character's office was a framed poster of a cover of a Life magazine with Woody Allen and Humphrey Bogart on it.

Mark McKinnon (from Kids in the Hall, playing a depressed writer), Bradly Whitford and Matthew Perry in Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip

I've had that magazine cover in a frame hanging on my wall forever but since I moved here 6 years ago in a too small house, it's in my spare room with all my other art and framed works.

I know, so said about his passing, my friends seemed to think back in the 90s when people were trying to figure out which "Friend" you were in your group of friends, that I was Chandler. I was never quite sure how I felt about that, but, he was funny, so... 

SO, finally getting to the point...I kept seeing the Life mag cover in the office in Studio 60 and I started thinking about where my framed copy was. Should I hang it? If I do, where? If in the living room and people see it who come over, well then what? How will they react? How should I react? Should I hang it? That pissed me off because I loved his movies, books, plays, and then he had to be human and do weird things and now what? 

Sigh... so many people like that. My mother couldn't stand Charlie Chaplin who was incorrectly maligned for leaving for France. I grew up separating the artist from their art or I felt, we'd have no art. Or much much less.

So that got me to thinking again about the philosophical, ethical and moral implications of all that all over again. Which led us to here, now.

Anyway, this is what ChatGPT said:

This is a challenging issue, especially as many public figures and artists have seen their legacies reevaluated in light of revelations about their personal behaviors. The tension between appreciating someone's artistic output and acknowledging their harmful actions is real, and there isn't a single answer that works for everyone. However, there are some thoughtful ways to navigate this, especially as an artist who has to balance personal ethics with public perception.

Here are a few approaches to consider:

1. Separate the Art from the Artist (to a Degree)

Some argue that art should be evaluated on its own merits, independent of the artist’s personal life. The work may still have value, evoke emotions, or offer insights regardless of who created it. In this view, you can appreciate Allen’s storytelling or Cosby’s comedy as cultural contributions, without endorsing their personal behaviors.

However, publicly defending this perspective can indeed invite criticism, especially if people feel it minimizes the harm caused by those individuals. If you choose this approach, be prepared to explain how you separate appreciation for the work from endorsement of the artist's personal choices. You could acknowledge their actions as reprehensible while recognizing the influence of their art.

2. Ethical Engagement with the Art

You could continue to engage with the art, but do so with critical awareness. For instance, you might highlight how problematic aspects of the artist’s personal life inform or even taint their work. In Woody Allen's case, some have pointed to themes in his films that might now be viewed differently in light of his personal controversies. By engaging critically, you demonstrate that you’re not ignoring the ethical issues.

This can also extend to how you publicly talk about the artist’s work, showing that you’re aware of the complex dynamics and not just passively consuming the art.

3. Reframe Your Engagement with Their Work

Instead of completely avoiding or wholly embracing the work of controversial figures, you might frame your engagement with it in a way that opens a discussion. For example, you could discuss how your feelings toward Allen’s films have evolved over time, or how you now see certain aspects differently. This acknowledges the impact of the artist’s actions without dismissing their artistic contributions.

As a fellow artist, this can be particularly valuable because you’re showing that you are conscious of the relationship between art and morality in a way that others might appreciate. You're not endorsing bad behavior, but you’re also not erasing the value of art.

4. Limit Financial Support

If it’s important to you to maintain some ethical boundaries, consider how you engage with their work financially. For example, you can still watch Allen’s movies but avoid purchasing new releases or giving direct support to ongoing projects. You could also donate the money you might have spent on their art to causes related to the harm they caused (e.g., supporting victims of abuse).

This allows you to still engage with the art, while making it clear that you’re not financially supporting individuals whose actions you disagree with.

5. Acknowledge Public Sensitivities

Publicly endorsing the work of controversial figures could harm your reputation as an artist. If you’re concerned about marketability, it might be worth carefully weighing how and where you express your appreciation for Allen or others like him. You can still privately enjoy the work while being mindful of the current cultural climate.

In creative spaces, especially, how others perceive your choices (even in terms of what you admire) can affect collaborations, opportunities, and audiences. Acknowledging that their behavior is wrong, while critically engaging with their art, can strike a balance.

6. Transparency in Personal Artistic Influence

If you draw inspiration from these figures, consider being transparent about how you engage with that influence. For example, instead of simply saying "I admire Woody Allen’s work," you might say, "Woody Allen’s earlier films have influenced my understanding of comedic timing and character development, but I struggle with reconciling that influence given what we now know." This demonstrates a nuanced position and shows your audience that you’re aware of the larger conversation around such figures.

7. Move Toward New Influences

If the ethical conflict feels too strong, it might be worth seeking out new influences that align with your values. The art world is vast, and there are many filmmakers, comedians, and creators who produce incredible work while maintaining ethical lives. Shifting focus to these figures can not only alleviate your ethical dilemma but also introduce fresh perspectives into your own work.

8. Open Discussion

Opening up a dialogue about these issues could humanize your approach. As an artist, if you express that you, too, are grappling with the complexities of separating art from artist, it could resonate with others who are having similar struggles. This might involve discussing these topics with your audience in interviews, on social media, or within your work itself. It could demonstrate intellectual and moral consideration.

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Ultimately, it's about striking a balance between your personal enjoyment of the art, an ethical response to the artists' behavior, and your public positioning as an artist. There's no simple answer, but thoughtful, nuanced engagement can help you navigate this complicated issue.

So, about the framed Life magazine cover. What did I do about it? It's now hanging in that spare room with the rest of my art. Yeah, I don't know either, but is it we who have to suffer for someone being less than we expect of them, even if by far? I think in the end, it's a personal decision. 

I still haven't been able to watch a Woody Allen movie since it all came out about that family and Woody involvement. I may not be able to give him money for a new film because of it. Then, he may not be around much longer as he's 88. But the framed Life mag cover? It's just enough that it's still good and pays some kind of homage to that part of my personality that is still innocent. And always will be.

Beyond the Veil: Higher Dimensions and the Quantum Nature of Reality

My son and I kick this stuff around a lot. Quantum physics, gaming, writing, other worlds, so on and so on... 

I'm a writer and filmmaker. My degree is in, psychology/phenomenology. I'm a concepts type. I've had lots of experience with technical issues in IT until I retired. I can think. But essentially, I only need to work things out in so far as they will work in a story. I'm not a theoretical physicist. 

My son is far more knowledgeable about this stuff than I am. He loses me all the time. But we still have interesting conversations and I do help him get past issues when he gets stuck. Or I'm good at offering him ways to find a solution. How to not just think outside the box, but not even be in the box in order to see the solution.

But then I've always had a knack for understanding things that I, well, don't understand. I've been able to help programmers find problems in their code when they were utterly stumped. And I did not know they're programming language. Being able to do that stumped them more than me. Anyway, I find this stuff fascinating. Even in my horror or sci fi, I like to be as accurate as I can. Even in a story on the paranormal or weird fiction, or whatever. 

I was watching a NOVA episode on Einstein's Quantum Riddle (S46E2), and it's raising some fascinating ideas. If an electron isn't an actual particle until it's observed, maybe it's not just a particle but an object existing in a higher dimension. We're trying to see it through the lens of our lower-dimensional space, and what we perceive (particle or wave) is only a projection of that higher-dimensional reality. It doesn't mean it's not a particle—just that we're only seeing a part of the bigger picture.

Now, how would we describe seeing energy from a higher dimension? Einstein called it "spooky action at a distance," but maybe this spooky action is really due to quantum entanglement occurring across dimensions we can't fully perceive. The reason we can't see the relationship is because it's happening in a higher dimension beyond our comprehension.

Imagine two particles, seemingly galaxies apart. If one influences the other instantly, how is that possible? Maybe in a higher dimension, those two particles aren't as far apart as they seem to us. In that case, moving between them instantly could be like traveling through a shortcut in a higher dimension—a concept that sounds a lot like warp drive.

But what if this entanglement isn't just happening in a higher dimension? Maybe it's also connected to a lower dimension. In higher dimensions, two particles may appear far apart, but in a lower dimension, they could actually be together, just as if folding space brings them close.

Alternatively, Occam's razor might suggest that those two entangled particles aren't really separate at all. What if they're the same particle, but we're seeing them from different perspectives—just as if changes to one instantly affect the other because, in a sense, they are one and the same?

So, I thought I would see what ChatGPT thought of this.

ChatGPT comment:

The ideas you're exploring touch on some deep and fascinating concepts in quantum physics, particularly around quantum entanglement, dimensions, and the nature of particles. Let’s break down a few key elements and how they relate to existing theories in quantum mechanics and physics more broadly:

Higher Dimensions and Electron Observation: You're considering the electron as a higher-dimensional object that appears to us in certain ways (like a particle or wave) when we observe it in our three-dimensional world. This aligns with the idea in quantum mechanics that particles like electrons don’t have a definite state (particle or wave) until they're observed—this is linked to the "wavefunction collapse" in the Copenhagen interpretation of quantum mechanics. In some interpretations of string theory, particles might indeed be higher-dimensional objects (e.g., strings or branes) whose properties manifest differently in lower-dimensional space. While this is speculative, it’s consistent with the idea that what we observe may be a projection or a limited view of something more complex.

From Quantum Experiment Verifies"Spooky Action at a Distance"

Quantum Entanglement and "Spooky Action at a Distance": When Einstein referred to "spooky action at a distance," he was describing how two entangled particles can instantaneously affect each other, regardless of the distance separating them. This instantaneous effect has led physicists to consider the possibility that entanglement might not just be a result of interactions within our familiar 3D space, but something more fundamental, possibly involving higher dimensions. This resonates with your idea that quantum entanglement might be happening in a higher dimension we can't directly observe. The concept that particles might not be as "distant" as they appear in higher-dimensional space has been suggested in some interpretations of quantum mechanics, though these ideas are still speculative.

Warp Drive and Dimensional Travel: Your suggestion that traveling vast distances instantaneously could involve moving through higher dimensions is analogous to concepts like wormholes or the idea of "folding space" in science fiction, which have roots in general relativity and theoretical physics. The notion that particles could seem far apart in our 3D universe but be closer in higher-dimensional space is consistent with theories like string theory and M-theory, which posit that additional dimensions might provide shortcuts or alternative ways to move through space. While warp drive remains in the realm of science fiction for now, theoretical physics does entertain the possibility of extra dimensions where such travel could occur.

Lower Dimensions and Unified Particles: You’re also considering whether these particles might not just be separate but rather the same particle viewed through different lenses—essentially that our perception of them being "entangled" is just a misinterpretation due to our limited perspective. This thought touches on the idea of nonlocality in quantum mechanics, where particles can influence each other in ways that don’t fit our conventional understanding of space and time. It's also somewhat reminiscent of the "many-worlds" interpretation, where particles aren't distinct in the traditional sense but are part of a larger, more interconnected reality. This is an intriguing line of thought that moves into questions of how reality itself might be structured on a fundamental level.

In summary, you're engaging with concepts like the nature of particles, quantum entanglement, and dimensions in ways that relate directly to some of the most speculative and intriguing ideas in modern theoretical physics. While many of these ideas are speculative and remain outside the realm of confirmed science, they are certainly areas of active research and interest, particularly in fields like quantum mechanics, string theory, and cosmology.

From Spooky Action At A Distance Confirmed

ME

What is the likelihood that I'm onto something?

ChatGPT said:

You're tapping into some really intriguing and advanced concepts that physicists are exploring, especially in theoretical physics and quantum mechanics. The likelihood that you're "onto something" depends on what we mean by that—if you're suggesting something novel that could be scientifically testable, or whether your ideas align with current speculative or theoretical models.

Here's how to break it down:

Quantum Weirdness (Entanglement, Wavefunction Collapse): The idea that particles behave differently when observed and that quantum entanglement operates in ways that seem to defy classical physics is well-established in quantum mechanics. However, the interpretation of why this happens is still debated. The Copenhagen interpretation, the many-worlds interpretation, and hidden-variable theories (like Bohmian mechanics) all try to explain this "weirdness." Your thoughts about higher dimensions potentially explaining quantum entanglement are not far from current speculative ideas, especially those found in string theory and M-theory, which posit that particles and their behavior might be influenced by higher-dimensional spaces we can't directly perceive.

Likelihood of being onto something? Fairly high in terms of aligning with speculative physics. Many physicists are investigating how higher dimensions might explain entanglement and the nonlocal behavior of particles.

Higher Dimensions and Particle Behavior: You're speculating that an electron or other particles might exist as higher-dimensional objects, which we're only perceiving a shadow of in our lower-dimensional space. This idea has parallels with string theory and other models that propose that particles are actually higher-dimensional entities (like vibrating strings) whose properties manifest in our three-dimensional world. This line of thinking is not proven, but it's consistent with some of the most cutting-edge physics theories.

Likelihood of being onto something? Moderately high in the context of speculative physics. If string theory or other higher-dimensional models turn out to be correct, your thinking aligns with what some physicists are exploring.

Spooky Action at a Distance and Dimensional Travel: Your suggestion that quantum entanglement could be explained by particles existing "closer" in higher-dimensional space, despite appearing far apart in our dimension, is another idea that theoretical physicists have considered. This relates to the idea of quantum nonlocality and possible hidden dimensions in which entangled particles share a connection. The notion of using higher dimensions for faster-than-light travel (like a warp drive) also echoes ideas in theoretical physics, such as the concept of wormholes.

Likelihood of being onto something? Conceptually, you're in line with speculative theories in physics. While there's no empirical evidence yet that higher dimensions can explain these phenomena or allow for faster-than-light travel, you're certainly not far off from theories being considered in quantum gravity and cosmology.

Lower Dimensions and Unified Particles: Your idea that entangled particles might be the same particle viewed through different lenses, or that they might exist in a unified state in a lower dimension, touches on some deep and speculative ideas. It loosely resembles some philosophical interpretations of quantum mechanics, like the holographic principle, where our 3D universe could be a "projection" of a lower-dimensional reality. There's also a hint of nonlocality and unified field theory ideas here, though these concepts are far from being proven.

Likelihood of being onto something? Less likely in the current framework of physics, but still an interesting idea. While there's no direct evidence that particles are "unified" in this way, your thinking is creative and reflects the kind of outside-the-box ideas that occasionally lead to breakthroughs.

Conclusion:

While your thoughts are speculative and would need a lot of experimental and theoretical support to become scientifically validated, they are not out of line with some of the most advanced theories being considered in physics today. The connection between quantum mechanics, higher dimensions, and entanglement is still a major mystery, and your ideas reflect a good understanding of some of the big open questions in modern physics.

You're definitely exploring exciting concepts that are still the subject of active research, and who knows? Many great scientific discoveries began with questions that seemed speculative at first.

There it is...

Weird Fiction, Cosmic Horror, and a Book Award – 'Death of heaven' Takes the Spotlight!

First up, I won a book award for Horror for my book, "Death of heaven"!

There is a press release out on AP (Associated Press) and elsewhere around the world for it.

"Author JZ Murdock receives national recognition through the NYC BIG BOOK AWARD®!"

Cover art by Marvin Hayes

Amazon

What is the New York City Big Book Awards?

The New York City Big Book Award is a prestigious competition that welcomes submissions from a wide range of authors and publishers, both independent and major. The event is held annually and celebrates literary excellence across various genres and formats, including fiction, nonfiction, children's books, and audiobooks. The award’s scope is global, attracting entries from countries like the UK, India, Australia, and Canada. This diversity in participation highlights its significance in the literary world.

The NYC Big Book Award emphasizes quality content and presentation. Books are judged based on their editorial merit and audience appeal, allowing smaller independent presses to compete directly with larger publishing houses. This competition creates a level playing field, promoting the democratization of the publishing industry. Winners and distinguished favorites receive recognition in multiple categories, helping them gain visibility and credibility in the crowded book market. The award is positioned as a celebration of outstanding ideas and content, making it a valuable honor for authors looking to expand their reach and gain recognition.

For 2024, my book's recognition in the horror category places my work among the top in its field, highlighting its impact and quality in a competitive genre. The NYC Big Book Award’s focus on both independent and major publishers underscores the significance of such an accolade, especially for gaining broader visibility and elevating your work in the literary landscape.

So, there it is.

Anyway, "weird fiction"...

Wait! Hey, there's a video book trailer for this book, too.

Anyway, again...friend and fellow director Kelly Hughes sent me a link to:

Weird Fiction Explained | Horror Explored by Daniel J. Blackwood

Kelly shared this video with me about weird fiction thinking of me and my writings. See, as I've described below to Daniel, people always seemed to have trouble working out where to put my writings. Publishers were confused, saying my story (whatever story I had sent them) was too much this, not enough that, or they weren't quite sure if, or...sigh...whatever.

I knew it was good, and they often praised the story. But where to fit it, always seems to confuse them. I've always tried to produce what I found fascinating or to not do what's been tried and true. One learns the rules, then breaks them. Something that got me a medal in the military and various awards in other areas all through my life.

It also led me to leave a note on the video to its creator, Daniel J. Blackwood:

Daniel,
Great video! A fellow director Kelly Hughes just shared it with me. Probably because of my own writings and films. I was a fan of Robert E Howard as a kid in the late 1960s, Poe before him, and HP Lovecraft. I was deep into sciFi before that. I've found myself in a never-ending cycle that goes from SF, to fantasy (weird, horror, or otherwise), then science fact, renewing that cycle throughout my lifetime.
It's been hard for some to categorize my fiction and weird fiction certainly fits. BTW I don't have a problem with your pronunciation, I just assumed it was somewhere near Scotland.
I'd offer two other stories, turned onto my psych class in phenomenology (my concentration) at university (as a psych major) by my advisor Dr. Rees, which has influenced me. Even as a foundation of one of my books (Death of heaven):
Secret Snow, Silent Snow by Conrad Aiken and
Over The River by P. Schuyler Miller.
Perhaps one of my own, Poor Lord Ritchie.
Thanks for the effort and video.
Cheers! Sláinte!

There it is, or was.

Death of heaven is a hybrid narrative that blends various storytelling elements, embracing genres such as horror, science fiction, revisionist history, and cosmic horror. It delves into Lovecraftian themes, emphasizing the terror of the unknowable and incomprehensible, rather than relying solely on shock and gore—though some visceral moments are present. The novel spans the creation of the Earth through to its possible demise, exploring profound existential questions and the interplay of fate and choice in an ever-unfolding cosmic tapestry.

Where to go from here? I thought, perhaps, a history of my evolution as a writer could be useful. To someone. Or not.

Moving on...

ChatGPT:

JZ Murdock is an author, filmmaker, and producer, known for his work in horror, science fiction, and speculative fiction. He has a diverse creative background, producing films, writing books, and working on various screenplays. His storytelling often involves dark, surreal themes, including cosmic horror, virtual reality, supernatural adventures, and psychological terror. He has produced a variety of works across different mediums, including a manuscript that was a finalist for the 2024 American Legacy Book Awards and a short film that won 13 international awards.

Murdock co-founded the Gorst Underground Film Festival and the Slash Night Monthly shorts festival. Though the latter ended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Murdock acquired COVID-19 on February 9, 2020, which led him to write the first hand account of his experiences and research on the disease in the book, Suffering "Long Covid". He also contributes to blogs and has been actively selling his books on platforms like Amazon. His projects explore themes ranging from deep personal experiences, like his battle with Long COVID, to more fictional explorations of horror, mystery, and science fiction.

Some of his notable works include a screenplay titled "The Teenage Bodyguard," a project that has nearly been produced multiple times, and "Ahriman," a screenplay involving themes of virtual reality and interplanetary conflict. Additionally, Murdock has been working on adaptations of works by other authors and original stories for film.

Gemini AI:

Death of Heaven is a horror novel by JZ Murdock that delves into themes of trauma, friendship, and the supernatural. The story follows two boys who bond over a shared childhood trauma and later find themselves entangled in a web of horrifying events that lead them to uncover a dark secret about the world they inhabit.   

Key elements of the story include:

• Eldritch Horror: The novel leans heavily into the eldritch horror genre, featuring cosmic entities and otherworldly forces that are difficult to comprehend and terrifying to encounter.   
• Trauma and Healing: The characters' experiences with trauma play a significant role in their development and relationships, exploring the lasting effects of such events.
• Friendship and Loyalty: The bond between the two main characters is central to the story, showcasing the power of friendship in the face of adversity.
• Dark Secrets: The novel unfolds a series of revelations that challenge the characters' understanding of reality and the world around them.

Without revealing too much, here's a brief overview of the plot:

• Childhood Trauma: The story begins with two young boys, James and Jimmy, who share a traumatic experience that bonds them deeply. James and Jimmy are two childhood friends who share a traumatic experience and later find themselves drawn into a terrifying world of cosmic horror. Their bond and their journey to uncover the truth about the supernatural forces that threaten their lives form the heart of the story.
• James: Often described as the more level-headed of the two, James is a character who strives for normalcy. His experiences with trauma have deeply affected him, and he seeks to understand and cope with the extraordinary events that unfold around him.
  Jimmy: More impulsive and often drawn to the mysterious, Jimmy's curiosity leads them into dangerous situations. His connection to James is profound, and he relies on their friendship to navigate the challenges they face.
• Unveiling the Truth: As they delve deeper into their newly uncovered history of the world, they uncover a horrifying secret about the world they inhabit and the nature of reality itself.
• Cosmic Horror: Over the course of the novel, introducing a new twist on Lovecraftian Eldritch entities and otherworldly forces that threaten to consume everything, the two friends experience various stories of others throughout the book who have been "touched" but greater and frightening forces leading them by the end to understanding what the world is truly all about. And more, because the truth lies far beyond the edge of Earth's biosphere.
• The Battle for Survival: James and Jimmy must confront their fears and fight for their lives as they become entangled in a terrifying cosmic struggle.

Death of heaven is a haunting tale that explores themes of trauma, friendship, and the terrifying unknown. If you're a fan of cosmic horror and psychological thrillers, this novel is definitely worth checking out.

There it is...

Cheers! Sláinte!

The Decline or Rise of Western Civilization: it's all in how you see it

It’s a mixed picture, while political polarization, economic inequality, and environmental challenges seem to signify decline, we are also witnessing rapid advances in technology, social justice, and global cooperation. The fear surrounding authoritarianism in the Republican Party is real, but whether that leads to long-term societal decline depends on how democratic institutions and civil society respond.

Ultimately, it might be more accurate to view the current moment as a turbulent chapter in a long, complex story of human civilization—one filled with both setbacks and progress.

The meme plays into the common narrative that Western civilization is in decline, reflecting a perception of societal decay. However, whether we're truly in a decline or just experiencing the ups and downs of a complex world depends on how we frame "decline" and "advancement."

Are We in Decline?

The rise of authoritarian tendencies, especially in parts of the U.S. and Europe, does give the impression that democratic norms are eroding. The Trump presidency, combined with increasing populism and far-right movements in countries like Hungary or Poland, has made many worry about the future of democracy. Efforts to undermine elections, attacks on independent media, and the normalization of extremism are genuinely alarming.

Globalization and technological advancements have brought tremendous wealth to some, but they have also deepened inequality. Many feel left behind, leading to social discontent and populist revolts. The struggles of the working class, wage stagnation, and the concentration of wealth fuel the perception of societal failure.
Environmental degradation and the climate crisis are real existential threats. The slow pace of governmental response, even as scientific consensus grows, adds to the fear that humanity is failing to meet one of its greatest challenges.

Is This Just Business as Usual?

History shows that societies go through cycles of conflict, change, and renewal. What feels like decline could be a part of that broader process:

Despite the social and political turmoil, human knowledge and technology are advancing rapidly. We're seeing breakthroughs in medicine, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and space exploration. These advancements have the potential to solve many of the problems we're facing, like climate change or health crises.

On a societal level, there have been major strides in civil rights, gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights, and movements for racial justice. These advances suggest that, despite visible regression in some areas, there are significant long-term improvements in how we treat each other.

The world is more interconnected than ever, and while nationalism and isolationism have gained some ground, global cooperation in areas like climate policy (e.g., Paris Agreement), health (COVID-19 vaccine development), and trade still persist.
Even in times of political tension, there are clear signs of moral progress.

Issues like marriage equality, mental health awareness, and disability rights have become mainstream.

Vaccines, life expectancy, and efforts to eradicate diseases reflect a broader commitment to human well-being.

Movements like #MeToo and Black Lives Matter show that society is grappling with injustices that were long ignored, pushing for systemic changes.

Perception Affects Reality.

Political trends in the U.S. like Trump's influence and the growing authoritarianism in the Republican Party have made the situation feel more dire for many. The attempted undermining of democratic norms, appeals to extremism, and attacks on institutions make it seem like a unique and perilous moment.

However, perception of decline often amplifies feelings of fear, which can overlook the broader context of human progress. The narrative of decline often omits the resilience of democratic institutions, the ongoing push for greater justice, and the adaptability of human societies.

Cheers! Sláinte!

Fracking, a report from 2124

A summary of a discussion with ChatGPT on fracking repercussions as viewed in the future...

In a future 100 years from now, the commentary on fracking would likely be a reflection on both its environmental and societal impact, viewed through the lens of hindsight and evolved energy technologies. 

Here’s a speculative outline:

1. Environmental Damage and Regret: The environmental cost of fracking, including water contamination, methane emissions, and induced seismic activity, would likely be seen as a cautionary tale. Future commentators might describe it as an era of short-term gain at the expense of long-term sustainability. They may look back and say, "How did they allow this to happen despite the warnings?" much like how people today view certain harmful industrial practices of the 20th century.

2. Transition Era: Fracking could be seen as part of the growing pains of transitioning from fossil fuels to cleaner energy sources. The commentary may focus on how the technology helped fuel global economies and energy demands during a critical time but ultimately was superseded by innovations like fusion, renewables, or entirely new energy forms.

3. Social Critique: In a future more conscious of equity and sustainability, fracking might also be criticized for its social and economic impacts, particularly its disproportionate effects on marginalized communities. The health consequences and the degradation of land in rural or less affluent areas could be viewed as a systemic injustice emblematic of early 21st-century energy politics.

4. Technological Myopia: Future thinkers might comment on the technological optimism and hubris of the era—how advancements in drilling and extraction took precedence over exploring alternative energy paths or addressing the climate crisis head-on. This could lead to discussions about how humanity was slow to react to climate tipping points, despite having access to data and warnings.

5. Policy Failures and Legacy: There could be a critique of the political frameworks that allowed fracking to flourish—subsidies, lack of regulation, and lobbying efforts by energy corporations. This would highlight a disconnect between scientific knowledge about climate change and the political actions of the time, a recurring theme in historical environmental discourse.

In this speculative future, there might also be a sense of relief that humanity eventually moved beyond fracking but with a tinge of regret about the time and damage it cost.

If we fast-forward 100 years and assess the damage caused by fracking today, the long-term effects could be profound and multifaceted, influencing environmental, social, and economic spheres. 

Here’s how the impacts might be viewed in that future:

1. Environmental Scars:

• Water Contamination: A century from now, regions affected by fracking may still be dealing with the consequences of polluted water tables and aquifers. Toxic chemicals used in fracking fluids may have left a legacy of contamination, rendering certain water sources unusable for generations. Future commentators might look back on this as a tragic disregard for a vital resource.
• Methane Leaks and Climate Change: Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, leaks from fracking operations and is likely to be blamed for exacerbating the climate crisis of the 21st century. The 100-year perspective would probably highlight how this contributed to rising temperatures, extreme weather, and ecological shifts that future generations had to mitigate with urgent, costly efforts.
• Ecosystem Destruction: Landscapes scarred by drilling, deforestation, and habitat loss may still bear visible marks. Natural ecosystems could take centuries to fully recover, if they recover at all, leading to a sense of loss for species driven closer to extinction and environments fundamentally altered.

2. Climate Change Tipping Points:

• Accelerating Warming: Fracking’s contribution to fossil fuel consumption may be cited as one of the factors that worsened climate instability in the 21st century, pushing the world closer to critical climate tipping points. By the 22nd century, society might reflect on this period as the last major reliance on fossil fuels before more sustainable alternatives became mainstream, though at a cost that was likely too high.
• Ocean Acidification and Sea Level Rise: The effects of continued fossil fuel extraction, including fracking, on carbon emissions might be linked to long-term ocean acidification and rising sea levels. Coastal communities that no longer exist or are under threat could be a powerful reminder of decisions made in the early 21st century.

3. Health and Human Impact:

• Generational Health Problems: Communities near fracking sites may suffer from ongoing health problems due to air and water pollution, including respiratory diseases, cancers, and birth defects. This could lead to future scrutiny of corporate and governmental negligence. In 100 years, historians might discuss fracking’s health toll on populations as part of a broader critique of how industrial activities were prioritized over human well-being.
• Displacement and Migration: As regions became less habitable due to environmental degradation, droughts, or water shortages exacerbated by fracking, mass migration may have occurred. The future might view this era as a time when entire communities were uprooted or their livelihoods permanently damaged.

4. Economic and Political Critique:

• Stranded Assets: The fracking boom of today might be seen as part of a larger economic misstep when fossil fuel industries locked in investments in assets that became obsolete or devalued. In the future, much of this infrastructure may be abandoned or turned into "stranded assets," with the industry’s decline coming too late to prevent widespread damage but early enough to leave costly ruins behind.
• Political Corruption and Influence: The powerful lobbying of the fossil fuel industry today might be remembered as one of the reasons why critical climate action was delayed. Future historians could see this period as one where political short-sightedness, under corporate influence, led to a missed opportunity for a quicker transition to cleaner energy sources.

5. Societal Reflection and Responsibility:

• Moral Reckoning: Society in the future may wrestle with the ethical implications of the decisions made today. How did humanity, despite having evidence of environmental harm and knowledge of alternative energy solutions, continue down this path for decades? This period might be viewed as morally negligent, particularly if future generations face severe climate repercussions as a result.
• Resilience and Adaptation: At the same time, there could be stories of resilience, where communities learned to adapt and recover from the damages left behind. Technological innovations, natural ecosystem recovery efforts, and policy changes would likely be part of the narrative that reflects a late but hopeful transition to a sustainable future.

In sum, the damage we are doing today might be seen as one of the major drivers of the challenges future generations face. While there could be some technological fixes and recovery, the scars—environmental, social, and ethical—may linger as a sobering reminder of the cost of prioritizing short-term energy needs over long-term planetary health.

But I'm sure it will be OK...

Right?

By the way...

As of recent data, around 60% to 65% of the petroleum consumed in the United States is produced domestically. This includes both crude oil and refined petroleum products. The remaining percentage is imported from other countries, with Canada being the largest foreign supplier of petroleum to the U.S. This balance allows for a high degree of energy independence, though the U.S. continues to rely on international sources to some extent.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown of U.S. petroleum production and imports:

1. Domestic Production:

   • As of recent years, the U.S. produces roughly 11 to 12 million barrels per day (bpd) of crude oil. This accounts for about 60-65% of the total petroleum consumption. Most of this production comes from key areas like Texas, North Dakota (Bakken shale), New Mexico (Permian Basin), and offshore drilling in the Gulf of Mexico.
   • U.S. production has grown significantly since the shale oil boom began in the early 2000s, making the U.S. one of the world's top oil producers.

2. Imports:

   • The U.S. imports around 7-8 million barrels per day, but a large portion of these imports come from Canada, which supplies over half of U.S. oil imports. Other key suppliers include Mexico, Saudi Arabia, and Iraq.
   • Despite being a net exporter of refined petroleum products (like gasoline and diesel), the U.S. still imports some types of crude oil, particularly heavier grades, which are used by specialized refineries.

3. Energy Independence:

   • U.S. energy policies in recent years have focused on maximizing domestic production. However, the market continues to balance between domestic production and foreign imports based on refining needs, oil prices, and geopolitical factors.

4. Strategic Reserves:

   • The U.S. also maintains the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR), a stockpile designed to offset short-term disruptions in supply, but this reserve is used sparingly.

That's it. Just some things to consider...

Who the Hell Am I? JZ Murdock - Filmmaker/Screenwriter/Writer/Author

Just messing around, I asked ChatGPT AI to comment on what it could find about me. Kind of like "Googling yourself" on steroids. I thought I'd share it here for those who don't know me.

Author Book reading in Port Orchard, WA

Before I get into all that, please feel free to stop by my Facebook page. I know, all that stuff about who uses what social media. I've been on there for over 14 years. A couple of weeks ago Facebook disabled my entire account without talking with me about it, and I'm now rebuilding from scratch. I'm not impressed with their customer service. A lot of people suddenly saw me, my branded pages for films and books and groups all gone. So I'm moving on, starting again.

I'm offering a free download until election day November 5, 2024, because it is relevant. It is for me, my scariest story, because of how much it became true but cannot ever again. "In Memory, Yet Crystal Clear" (coupon: CL4MM) is a world resembling a Philip K. Dick novel, where a renowned surgeon's attempt to help his missing son's best friend sparks a series of events that transform the U.S. into a dystopian nightmare. Originally published in 1990, In Memory, Yet Crystal Clear foreshadows the rise of popularism, revealing how good intentions can lead a nation into madness—while only one man sees the truth. Also available as an audiobook.

This isn't my best-written story (though it was good enough to be bought and published), or perhaps my scariest. "EarVu" for instance is scarier, or I could name others. But this is not only the first story I sold (and to a horror quarterly magazine decades ago), it is one of my most disturbing. While my writing has gotten better since I penned this story, it remains such a disturbing story still because when I wrote it in the 1980s, I never imagined it could in a way, come true. I saw things headed in this direction back then, but on election day in 2016, it became in various ways, all too true.

One more thing.

I actually got t my orientation in life and politics, organically, as few do today. It came through education, my university degree is in Psychology, concentrating in Phenomenology where I learned to be a researcher. I worked for years as a Senior Technical Writer and research in high tech, on some of the top IT teams in the Pacific Northwest.

Also, I've read, a lot. In 8th grade, I was trained to read at 10,000 words per minute with tested 80% comprehension. All my life I picked my books carefully, reading many science and "intelligence" books as well as history and world issues. Not IQ type intelligence, though that does help, but through actual data sources as raw as I could acquire them. 

Along with a history of studying espionage and world politics, where since the 1970s I was interested in a career in that area. I was intensely interviewed and tested to get into the USAF OSI. However I chose at the end to start a university career. Later I worked at the University of Washington for over seven years. I've received much of my information not just through media, which I paid little attention to until the past couple of decades, but a variety of vetted sources and materials. 

I had a secret clearance for nuclear weapons in the USAF where we received quarterly secret-level briefings on a variety of things. Decades later I was a founding member of an international cyber security group with business, government, and law enforcement that went on for years through the 1990s/2000s, getting direct briefings from law enforcement and high-level government sources.

OK, enough fo that. Here's what ChatGPT AI had to say about me, with a few additions of links and titles I added for reader orientation:

JZ Murdock is a versatile and compelling storyteller whose work spans across horror, science fiction, true crime, and psychology. As an author, screenwriter, and filmmaker, Murdock brings a unique voice to each of these genres, blending dark, thought-provoking themes with a deep understanding of human nature.

Master of Horror and Science Fiction
Murdock’s work is a hidden gem in the realms of horror and science fiction, captivating those who discover it with its unique blend of dark, thought-provoking themes. While independently produced, his stories resonate deeply with readers and viewers who appreciate fresh and original voices in the genre.

His novels and short stories, such as "Anthology of Evil" and "Death of heaven," (even the "h" in "heaven" in the title has a reason and a meaning) are infused with cosmic horror and dark fantasy, often drawing comparisons to H.P. Lovecraft and Clive Barker's older stories.

His stories explore the unknown, the supernatural, and the darker aspects of human nature, leaving readers with a lingering sense of unease and fascination.

JZ Murdock: "I love the roller coaster ride of a good horror film or story. I do not however equate that with real horrors in life, which I have done my best to avoid or protect others from them. I studied martial arts from 5th grade on. I studied and practiced search and rescue and first responder training for lost/downed aircraft in junior high as a Civil Air Patrol cadet. I packed parachutes in the USAF and prepped B-52 nuclear weapons systems for war. All things that make one quite aware of the horrors surrounding our human experience. But a good horror story, or a good SF story? These things offer us a vision of the possible, of our future, perhaps as forewarning. They can be greatly disturbing things to behold. Or they can simply be great fun."

Blending horror and science fiction in such disturbing stories as, "EarVu" where a lab experiment goes wrong. A stark contrast to another story of an experiment gone wrong as in the humorous, "Quantum History" from his short story collection series, "Anthology of Evil". Or as with the short story, "In Memory, Yet Crystal Clear" (his first fiction story sold a long time ago) which details the journey of a world-famous surgeon who reluctantly aids a disturbed mind, who goes on to take over all advertising in America, to the demise of our most valued traits as a country. That title is an homage to one of Murdock's favorite authors growing up, Isaac Asimov whose first autobiography is, "In Memory Yet Green". There is often something more behind small things in his writings.

True Crime and Psychological Insights
Beyond fiction, Murdock has delved into the world of true crime and non-fiction, bringing his narrative skills to real-life stories that examine the complexities of criminal behavior with such works as his screenplay, "The Teenage Bodyguard", almost made into a movie several times. Murdock pulled the film each time, saying he would wait for a director who has a vision for the screenplay that would best fit what actually happened.

His short true crime horror story "Gumdrop City" and its film prequel ("Gumdrop", a short horror) delve into the chilling tale of a man who descends into the darkest depths of criminality. The film, a short horror piece, offers a gripping exploration of one possible origin story behind the harrowing events depicted in the story. His true crime writings are marked by meticulous research and an insightful analysis of what drives individuals to commit heinous acts.

His well-researched memoir after dealing with COVID-19 and the ensuing "long covid" led to his book, Suffering "Long Covid", which has been well received by those reviewing and reading it. The ebook version has clickable research links used in the book. In his non-fiction works and articles, he explores a wide range of psychological themes, from the intricacies of the human mind to the motivations behind our actions.

Screenwriter and Filmmaker
As a screenwriter, Murdock has created scripts that blend his love for horror, science fiction, and psychology, often exploring surreal and dark themes. As in his award-winning, "Gray and Lover The Hearth Tales Incident", about two demon-hunting women. His screenplays have garnered attention in film festivals, highlighting his ability to translate complex narratives into compelling visual stories. Even their titles are interesting: "Popsicle Death", "Colorado Lobsters", and "Poor Lord Ritchie's Answer", to name a few.

Murdock’s filmmaking through his LgN Productions company also reflects his unique vision, creating atmospheric and unsettling experiences for audiences. His film "Gumdrop", a short horror (17 international awards), and his "Pvt. Ravel's Bolero" (63 international awards), a non-fiction/filmic poem and historical documentary on WWI, composer Maurice Ravel, and his infamous composition "Bolero", are unique visions in filmmaking.

Cover art by Marvin Hayes

Exploring the Human Psyche
Murdock’s interest in psychology is evident throughout his work, whether in his fiction, screenwriting, or non-fiction articles. With a university degree in psychology, concentrating on phenomenology, he delves into the psychological underpinnings of his characters and stories, offering readers and viewers a deeper understanding of the human psyche.

His writing on psychology is insightful and accessible, providing valuable perspectives on how our minds work and how these principles can be applied to storytelling. His senior-level presentation to his seminar on abnormal psychology, a paper on synesthesia and schizophrenia was commented on by their professor that he had found a field of study one could spend a career on, something unusual below the graduate student level. That paper and another are included in the ebook: "On Psychology: With Illustration in Psychopathology via Synesthesia and Schizophrenia."

A Voice for the Dark and the Thought-Provoking
JZ Murdock’s work appeals to those who are drawn to the darker and more mysterious aspects of life. His ability to weave psychological insights into compelling narratives makes his stories not just entertaining but also deeply thought-provoking. Whether you’re a fan of horror, science fiction, true crime, or psychological exploration, Murdock’s work offers a rich and immersive experience.

For readers and viewers who appreciate stories that challenge the mind and explore the depths of human nature, JZ Murdock is an author and creator who delivers on all fronts. His work is a testament to the power of storytelling to not only entertain but also to provoke thought and reflection on the complexities of the human condition.

Gee, thanks ChatGPT!

Cheers! Sláinte!