Nixon-Kissinger Treason in Vietnam – Remembering January 23, 1973

NIXON-KIISINGER TREASON IN VIETNAM – REMEMBERING JANUARY 23, 1973

On January 23, 1973, President Nixon announced about ‘The Agreement on Ending the War and Restoring Peace in Vietnam’ popularly known as Paris Peace Accords. This Vietnam Peace Treaty was signed on January 27, 1973 with cease-fire effective from January 28, 1973. Nixon-Kissinger are guilty of treason in Vietnam for President Nixon won his election for first-term in 1968, and later won his election for second-term in 1972 by using Vietnam War for political gain and not to serve the purpose of the United States which was at War actively fighting against enemy. For all practical purposes, ‘The Fate of Saigon’, and ‘The Fall of Saigon’ on April 30, 1975 was decisively concluded on January 23, 1973.

Rudranarasimham Rebbapragada
Ann Arbor, MI 48104-4162 USA
SPECIAL FRONTIER FORCE

THE WASHINGTON POST

SECRET ARCHIVE OFFERS FRESH INSIGHT INTO NIXON PRESIDENCY

By David E. Hoffman October 11 at 9:29 AM

The Post’s Bob Woodward, author of the new book, “The Last of the President’s Men,” talks to former Nixon aide Alexander Butterfield about a previously undisclosed top-secret memo updating Nixon on war developments. (Ultan Guilfoyle and Tom LeGro/The Washington Post)

President Richard Nixon believed that years of aerial bombing in Southeast Asia to pressure North Vietnam achieved “zilch” even as he publicly declared it was effective and ordered more bombing while running for reelection in 1972, according to a handwritten note from Nixon disclosed in a new book by Bob Woodward.

Nixon’s note to Henry Kissinger, then his national security adviser, on Jan. 3, 1972, was written sideways across a top-secret memo updating the president on war developments. Nixon wrote: “K. We have had 10 years of total control of the air in Laos and V.Nam. The result = Zilch. There is something wrong with the strategy or the Air Force.”

The day before he wrote the “zilch” note, Nixon was asked about the military effectiveness of the bombing by Dan Rather of CBS News in an hour-long, prime-time television interview. “The results have been very, very effective,” Nixon declared.

Nixon’s private assessment was correct, Woodward writes: The bombing was not working, but Nixon defended and intensified it in order to advance his reelection prospects. The claim that the bombing was militarily effective “was a lie, and here Nixon made clear that he knew it,” Woodward writes.

Nixon’s note, which has not previously been disclosed, was found in a trove of thousands of documents taken from the White House by Alexander P. Butterfield, deputy to H.R. Haldeman, Nixon’s chief of staff, and not made public until now. Butterfield’s odyssey through Nixon’s first term is the subject of Woodward’s book, “The Last of the President’s Men,” to be published Tuesday by Simon & Schuster.

Richard Nixon performs the last acts of his devastated presidency in the White House East Room on Aug. 9, 1974, as he bids farewell to his Cabinet, aides and staff. (AP)

Butterfield became a key figure in the Watergate scandal when he revealed to Senate investigators the existence of the White House taping system. The tapes captured Nixon’s role in the coverup and marked a critical turning point in the collapse of his presidency. He resigned in 1974. Woodward and Carl Bernstein exposed the Watergate story in The Washington Post.

The new book, based on the documents and more than 46 hours of interviews with Butterfield, offers an intimate but disturbing portrayal of Nixon in the Oval Office. Butterfield depicts Nixon, who died in 1994, as forceful and energetic, but also vengeful, petty, lonely, shy and paranoid.

Butterfield felt deeply conflicted; he was proud to be serving but chagrined to be caught up in the underside of Nixon’s presidency. “The whole thing was a cesspool,” he told Woodward.

Alexander Butterfield is photographed in Washington, D.C., on Oct. 10. (Nikki Kahn/The Washington Post)

Butterfield, now 89, was in charge of preventing other Nixon staffers from leaving the White House with government documents, but he saw many, including the late Nixon counselor Arthur Burns, haul away boxes when they left.

Butterfield anticipated writing a memoir, so when he left the White House in 1973, “I just took my boxes of stuff and left,” he told Woodward, packing them into his and his wife’s car. Woodward writes that the boxes contained everything from routine chronologies and memos to some top-secret exchanges with Kissinger and a few highly classified CIA bulletins.

The new book by The Post’s Bob Woodward, “The Last of the President’s Men,” is based on previously undisclosed documents and more than 46 hours of interviews with Alexander Butterfield, the Nixon aide who revealed the existence of the White House taping system. (Ultan Guilfoyle and Tom LeGro/The Washington Post)

Butterfield acknowledged to Woodward that it was improper and wrong to remove them, and pledged to ensure that they will be deposited with a proper archive.
Woodward, who wrote that he thought the Nixon story was over for him after his book on Mark Felt, the FBI associate director and secret source known as Deep Throat, said he was “shocked” at the existence of Butterfield’s secret files. “So the story, like most of history, does not end,” he writes.

‘SHAKE THEM UP!!’

The Vietnam War had been all-consuming for Nixon’s presidency. The antiwar movement was strong in the United States, and Nixon was under political pressure to end the conflict. The centerpiece of Nixon’s approach was “Vietnamization”: withdraw U.S. troops so the South Vietnamese could take over, and negotiate a peace settlement “with honor,” avoiding anything that could be labeled a defeat.

As ground troops withdrew, air power was one of Nixon’s few remaining tools to pressure Hanoi. In late December 1971, Nixon ordered renewed bombing of North Vietnamese targets for five days.

By early 1972, Nixon was on the verge of announcing his reelection campaign and taking his momentous trip to China. But he was worried about reports of a major North Vietnamese buildup, foreshadowing a possible offensive.

On Jan. 2, 1972, in the CBS television interview, Rather asked Nixon, “On everyone’s mind is the resumption of the widespread bombing of North Vietnam. Can you assess the military benefits of that?” Nixon reiterated what he had often said about the bombing, that it was “very, very effective,” and added, “I think that effectiveness will be demonstrated by the statement I am now going to make.” Nixon then announced that he would soon bring home more troops — virtually removing any U.S. combat force in Vietnam.

The next day, writing his private thoughts to Kissinger, Nixon added, “There is something wrong with the strategy or the Air Force. I want a ‘bark-off’ study — no snow job — on my desk in two weeks as to what the reason for the failure is.” Nixon added that “otherwise continued air operations make no sense in Cambodia, Laos, etc. after we complete withdrawal — Shake them up!!” Nixon underlined the last words twice.

Woodward said he could find no evidence that the study was ever carried out.
[How Mark Felt Became ‘Deep Throat’]

In another memo written a few months later, also found in the Butterfield files, Nixon complained to Kissinger that the military and bureaucracy were too timid. Nixon demanded action that is “strong, threatening and effective” to “punish the enemy” and “go for broke.” Nixon may also have been frustrated at North Vietnamese resilience. Woodward cites CIA, Defense Intelligence Agency and Pentagon memos showing that the bombing was not that effective because the North was getting more supplies than it needed to fight the ground war in the south, and could hold out for two years even if the bombing continued.

Kissinger, in an interview, told Woodward he agreed with the conclusion that years of bombing North Vietnam had failed, and he recalled that Nixon was frustrated. “He was in the habit of wanting more bombing . . . his instructions most often were for more bombing,” Kissinger said.

Woodward writes: “The ‘zilch’ conclusion had grown over three years. In what way and when did he realize this? History may never know. Maybe Nixon never knew, never grasped the full weight of his own conclusion.”

Woodward concludes that while Nixon knew the bombing was militarily futile, he believed it would reap political rewards at home. After Nixon resigned, papers found in his hideaway office in the White House included a GOP polling study, commissioned in 1969, that showed that the American people would favor bombing and blockading North Vietnam for six months. Woodward cites the work of Ken Hughes of the University of Virginia’s Miller Center to show that “the massive bombing did not do the job militarily but it was politically popular. Hughes argues with a great deal of evidence that the bombing was chiefly designed so Nixon would win re-election.”
[Woodward and Bernstein: Nixon was far worse than we thought]

The “zilch” note was followed in February by orders for intensified bombing of North Vietnam. On May 8, Nixon ordered the mining of Haiphong Harbor and bombing of key military targets. On Sept. 8, Nixon reported to Kissinger that poll numbers favored the bombing. “It’s two-to-one for bombing,” he boasted.

On Oct. 16, just weeks before the election, Nixon recalled the May 8 decision to mine the harbor and told Kissinger, “May 8 was the acid test. And how it’s prepared us for all these things. The election, for example.” Kissinger replied, “I think you won the election on May 8.” Nixon was reelected by a landslide in November.

In that election year, the United States dropped 1.1 million tons of bombs in the Vietnam War, including 207,000 tons in North Vietnam alone, Woodward reports, citing Pentagon records.

‘DEEP, DEEP RESENTMENTS’

Before joining the White House, Butterfield was a 42-year-old U.S. Air Force colonel with an assignment in Australia. After Nixon’s triumph in the 1968 election, Butterfield reached out to Haldeman, an acquaintance from their university years at UCLA. Haldeman then hired Butterfield as his White House deputy. Butterfield was an outsider, unlike many of the others around Nixon, and what he saw in the next four years left a vivid impression.

When Butterfield was introduced to the president in the Oval Office by Haldeman, Nixon mumbled, cleared his throat and gestured. “No words came out, only a kind of growl,” Woodward writes, based on Butterfield’s recollection. Another time, also in the White House, Nixon dropped by a birthday party for Paul Keyes, a comedy writer and Nixon friend who had helped on the 1968 campaign. When Nixon entered the room, there was an unnatural hush. No one offered a handshake or a glass of wine. Nixon seemed at a loss. Keyes was wearing a solid green blazer. “Ah, ah, ah . . . uh,” Nixon muttered, according to Woodward’s account. “Then Nixon pointed down at the carpet, a worn, faded maroon. He spoke in a deep but barely audible voice. ‘Green coat . . . red rug . . . Christmas colors.’ He then wheeled around and strode out of the room to the Oval Office.”

Alexander Butterfield, administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, arrives at the Rayburn Building to testify before the Judiciary Committee in Washington, D.C., on July 2, 1974.
(Bob Burchette/The Washington Post)

Woodward says Butterfield felt that “Nixon was quickly becoming the oddest man he’d ever known.”

“It was if he were locked in his own deeply personal world, thinking, planning and churning,” Woodward writes of Butterfield’s impressions. Butterfield described Nixon as so lonely that he often took dinner by himself in the Old Executive Office Building, sitting with his suit coat still on, writing on his legal pad. “He was happiest when he was alone,” Butterfield recalled.

Nixon’s relationship with his wife, Pat, was cold, Butterfield observed. At the Winter White House, a compound in Key Biscayne, Fla., she stayed in a separate house.

On Christmas Eve 1969, Nixon walked through the Executive Office Building adjacent to the White House to wish employees a merry Christmas. The president discovered that some support staff employees had prominently displayed photographs of President John F. Kennedy — and that one worker had two. Nixon was furious and ordered Butterfield to remove all photos of other presidents. On Jan. 16, 1970, Butterfield wrote a memo to the president, titled “Sanitization of the EOB,” describing how all 35 offices displayed only Nixon’s photograph.

Alexander Butterfield, deputy assistant to President Richard Nixon, describes to The Post’s Bob Woodward how Nixon barred certain reporters from traveling with him to China in 1972. (Ultan Guilfoyle and Tom LeGro/The Washington Post)

Butterfield learned that Nixon did not just have an “enemies list” with dozens of names, but also an “opponents list” and a “freeze list.” One day Nixon exploded in anger after finding out that Derek Bok, then the president of Harvard University, was at the White House. “I don’t ever want that son of a bitch back here on the White House grounds,” he told Butterfield. “And you get those enemies lists, make sure everybody knows who’s on them.”
[Kissinger: the Dr. Frankenstein of foreign affairs, or just self-promoter?]

The president constantly scrutinized event invitation lists, striking names. Nixon organized a procedure with Butterfield so that during coffee after a state dinner, only a pre-selected group of five out of some 100 invited guests would get a chance to talk to the president. No one else could approach him.

Butterfield told Woodward that Nixon was controlled by “his various neuroses, the deep, deep, deep resentments and hatreds — he seemed to hate everybody. The resentments festered. And he never mellowed out.”

Butterfield did not know about the specifics of the Watergate break-in, but witnessed how Nixon’s obsessions led to it. At one point, Butterfield was given the assignment to plant a spy in the Secret Service detail of Sen. Edward M. Kennedy (D-Mass.). Nixon later mused that the spy — a retired agent who was reactivated — might find information that would “ruin him for ’76,” when Kennedy might be considered a possible presidential candidate. Butterfield knew the plan was illegal, and told Woodward that he was surprised at himself for going along with it.

Alexander Butterfield, deputy assistant to President Richard Nixon, talks to The Post’s Bob Woodward about revealing the existence of the White House taping system. (Ultan Guilfoyle and Tom LeGro/The Washington Post)

It fell to Butterfield to organize the White House taping system, installed at Nixon’s behest in February 1971. Although Nixon endlessly explored and sifted his options on most issues, Woodward reports that “there was apparently no discussion about the merits or risks of such a taping system.” It was installed over a weekend by the Secret Service while the president was out of town. Five microphones were put in the president’s desk, on the top, concealed with a coating of varnish. The lights on the mantel in the Oval Office also carried microphones, a place where Nixon often took guests, including heads of state, to chat. The microphones were connected to voice-activated tape recorders behind a metal door in the basement.

When the Watergate scandal broke, “I was thinking of the tapes the whole time,” Butterfield recalled. “God, if they only knew. If they only knew. In a way I wanted it to be known. In the deep recesses of my brain, I was eager to tell.” Woodward devotes several chapters to Butterfield’s personal struggle over whether to reveal the secret taping system, which Nixon thought would never be made public.

On the day of Nixon’s departure from the White House, Aug. 9, 1974, Butterfield saw many White House officials and workers weeping in the East Room. “I could not believe that people were crying in that room,” he told Woodward. “It was sad, yes. But justice had prevailed. Inside I was cheering. That’s what I was doing. I was cheering.”

Secret archive offers fresh insight into Nixon presidency

washingtonpost.com

FRIEND OR FOE – KNOWING INDIA’S ENEMY

FRIEND OR FOE – KNOWING INDIA’S ENEMY

FRIEND OR FOE – KNOWING INDIA’S ENEMY – THE ART OF MILITARY INTELLIGENCE. SUN TZU WISDOM. INDIA HAS TO LEARN THE ART OF PREPARING FOR WAR.

I am sharing analysis titled ‘The Future of India’s Security – A Analysis Post Pathankot’ authored by Brahma Challaney. The Art of Warfare primarily involves ‘Knowing Your Enemy’. Mr. Challaney’s analysis is incomplete for it makes no attempt to know the ‘ENEMY’. This attack on Indian Air Force Base in Pathankot is a mere symptom of an underlying disease. In my diagnosis, the disease that is afflicting Pakistan is that of ‘Foreign Domination’. Pakistan is virtually under siege from various external influences; political, economic, and military Expansionism of United States, Saudi Arabia, and People’s Republic of China. To confront the problem of Communist Expansionism in Afghanistan, United States launched an illegitimate campaign to train militants to fight the Soviets. The campaign against the Soviets included several militant groups who are primarily involved in attacking India in Kashmir, Punjab, and other areas to weaken Republic of India and to promote dismemberment of India, a tactic that was successfully used in Europe to tear Republic of Yugoslavia. For India’s Security threat is from Superpowers such as the US and China, India has to seek military cooperation with Russia to display a sense of willingness to fully engage Enemy in recognition of Enemy’s intentions.. To counter foreign influence over Pakistan, India needs meaningful defense arrangement with Russia and deploy Russian troops on Indian territory to send a clear signal to Enemy about India’s military preparedness. United States is driven by a sense of fear; the fear of Soviet or Russian political domination of India. United States has responded by strengthening Pakistan and by encouraging polarization within India to break Indian Union apart to reduce impact of Soviet or Russian domination. Under these circumstances, India has no choice other than that of embracing an Enemy that India’s Enemy fears.

Rudranarasimham Rebbapragada

Ann Arbor, MI 48104-4162 USA

SPECIAL FRONTIER FORCE

The future of India’s security – an analysis post Pathankot
Pakistan’s military employs terrorist surrogates as a cost-effective force multiplier to undermine India’s rise ________________________________

Brahma Chellaney

Make no mistake: the four-day terrorist siege of the Pathankot air base was the equivalent of the 26 November 2008 Mumbai terror strikes. In both cases, the Pakistani terrorists were professionally trained, heavily armed and dispatched by their masters for a specific suicide mission. The main difference is that in Mumbai the terrorist proxies struck civilian sites, while in the latest case their assigned target was a large military facility.

After the widespread anger and indignation triggered by the recent Paris and San Bernardino attacks, a Mumbai-style strike on civilian targets was not a credible option for the Pakistani military, especially because of the risk that such an attack would invite Indian retaliation.

So, it chose a military target in India, orchestrating the attack through a terror group it founded in 2000 by installing as its head one of the terrorists the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government unwisely released to end the hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight 814.

That a pivotal Indian air base against Pakistan came under an extended siege represented a bigger hit for the terror sponsors than the earlier coordinated attacks on soft Mumbai targets. And this hit occurred without the international spotlight and outrage that the Mumbai strikes drew.

It was not an accident that the Pathankot attack coincided with a 25-hour gun and bomb siege of the Indian consulate in Mazar-i-Sharif, Afghanistan. The twin attacks, outsourced to Jaish-e-Mohammed, were designed as a New Year gift to India.

How did India come out from the crisis? Put simply, not looking good.

Leadership is the key to any country effectively combating the scourge of terrorism. India, however, has faced a protracted crisis of leadership for more than a generation since 1989. In this period, Pakistan has gone from inciting a Jammu and Kashmir insurrection, which ethnically cleansed the Kashmir Valley of its 300,000 Pandit residents, to scripting terror attacks across India.

Narendra Modi’s election win reflected the desire of Indians for a dynamic leader to end political drift. Yet, since Modi’s victory, cross-border terrorists have repeatedly tested India’s resolve—from Herat to Pathankot via Gurdaspur and Udhampur. And each time, India flunked the test, as it has done since the Vajpayee era.

The Pathankot strike, above all, constituted an act of war, presenting Modi with his first serious national security challenge. Modi’s leadership, however, was found wanting in nearly every aspect—from leading from the front to reassuring the Indian public.

For almost the first two days of the siege, Modi chose to be away in Karnataka. And the only statement he made during the entire siege seemed to signify euphemism as escapism. Just as he called the Paris strikes an “attack on humanity”, he said the Pathankot terror siege was by “enemies of humanity” (he could not bring himself to say even “enemies of India”). Not a single meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security was held during the crisis.

Operationally, the action to kill the terrorists in the air base stands out as a textbook example of how not to conduct such a mission. Despite New Delhi receiving advance intelligence of the attack, the terrorists not only gained entry into the base but the operation to flush them out was also poorly conceived and executed, without a unified operational command.

War needs good public relations. But the Modi government appears not to have even a peacetime communication strategy. During the Pathankot siege, officials gave confusing and conflicting accounts.

The crisis, if anything, highlighted the government’s strategic naïveté. While gun battles were still raging inside the base, the government supplied Islamabad communication intercepts and other evidence linking the attackers with their handlers in Pakistan. This was done in the fond hope that the terror masters will go after their terror proxies, despite India’s bitter experience in the Mumbai case where it presented dossiers of evidence to Pakistan.

More laughable was New Delhi’s disclosure on the siege’s final day that, in a telephone call from Nawaz Sharif, Modi asked Pakistan’s toothless prime minister for “firm and immediate action” on the “specific and actionable information” provided by India and that Sharif promised “prompt and decisive action against the terrorists”.

Decisive power in Pakistan rests with the military generals, with the army and the Inter-Services Intelligence, immune to civilian oversight. India is in no position to change Pakistan’s power dynamics. Yet, the critical issues that India wants to discuss with Pakistan—terrorism, infiltration, border peace and nuclear security—are matters over which the Pakistani military has the final say.

So, how can Modi hope to buy peace with a powerless Pakistani government that has ceded its authority in foreign policy and national security to the military?

If Pakistan wants a détente with status-quoist India, it can easily get it. Its military, however, cannot afford peace with India. It employs terrorist surrogates as a highly cost-effective force multiplier to undermine India’s rise and regional clout, which explains why Indian diplomatic missions in Afghanistan have repeatedly been attacked and why Bangladesh and Nepal have become new gateways to India for Pakistan’s proxies.

Yet India, as if expecting the Pakistani security establishment to turn over a new leaf, supplied almost real-time evidence in the Pathankot case.

Modi’s Christmas gift to Pakistan in the form of a surprise Lahore stopover yielded, in return, a New Year’s terror surprise for India. Rather than learn from the mistakes of his immediate two predecessors—who learned the hard way how peace overtures to Pakistan, by signalling weakness, invited cross-border aggression—Modi chose to commit the same folly, reposing his faith in Sharif, who back-stabbed Vajpayee.

Of the 35 countries visited by Modi in his first 19 months in office, no nation has provided a payback as quickly as Pakistan. In fact, in modern history, no head of government before Modi visited an enemy country without any preparatory work and with nothing to show in results. Grabbing the international spotlight through a brief surprise visit just to have tea does not befit the leader of an aspiring power.

Sadly, Modi is showing that showmanship is to his foreign policy what statecraft is to the diplomacy of great powers.

The recent terror attack in San Bernardino, although not an act of international terrorism, has shaken up American politics. By contrast, multiple cross-border terror attacks have failed to galvanize India into devising a credible counterterrorism strategy. With the ISI using narcotics traffickers to send opiates and terrorists into India’s Punjab, the Pathankot killers—like the Gurdaspur attackers—came dressed in Indian army uniforms through a drug-trafficking route. The influx of narcotics is destroying Punjab’s public health.

When the next major terror strike occurs, India will go through the same cycle again, including a silly debate on whether to talk to Pakistan or not. As army chief General Dalbir Singh said, “India needs to change its security policy towards Pakistan. Every time Pakistan bleeds us… we just talk about it for a few days and after that it is business as usual.”

Indeed, New Delhi, forgetting Mumbai, wants Pakistan to act in the Pathankot case. And when the next major cross-border attack occurs, Pathankot will be forgotten. With New Delhi focused on the last terror strike, Pakistan has still to deliver even in the 1993 case internationally known as the Bombay bombings—the bloodiest terrorist attack in India.

While the Pakistani military has made its government impotent by appropriating key powers, the Indian government, through inaction, is rendering its powerful military impotent to defeat terrorism. This was apparent even in the Pathankot siege, with precious time lost due to the government’s bungled decision to airlift National Security Guard commandos to the scene rather than immediately press readily available army commandos into action.

India’s biggest threat is from asymmetric warfare, waged across porous borders or gaps in Indian frontier defences. This asymmetric warfare takes different forms—from Pakistan’s proxy war by terror and China’s furtive, salami-style encroachments into the Himalayan borderlands to Nepal serving as a conduit for India’s enemies to funnel militants, arms, explosives and fake currency to India.

Yet India, far from focusing on neutralizing the asymmetric warfare, has sought to prepare for a full-fledged conventional war through improvident arms imports. Modi alone has sunk billions of dollars in such mega-deals. The more weapon systems India imports, the more insecure it feels.

There are several things India can do against the terror sponsors short of war. But first, it must have political will and clear strategic objectives. Today, unfortunately, there is no long-term strategic vision or even a Pakistan policy. Under Modi, India has already made at least six U-turns on Pakistan. For example, its October stance that “talks and terror cannot go together” lasted barely 10 weeks. Almost every season in New Delhi brings a new Pakistan policy.

An unconventional war must be countered with an unconventional war. Nuclear weapons have no deterrence value in an unconventional war. Nor can they guarantee Pakistan’s survival. The Soviet Union unravelled despite having the world’s most formidable nuclear arsenal in mega-tonnage. Why should India allow itself to be continually gored when it is seven times bigger demographically than Pakistan, almost 12 times larger in GDP terms and militarily more powerful?

Let us be clear: No nation gets peace merely by seeking peace. To secure peace, India must be able to impose deterrent costs when peace is violated in order to tell the other side that the benefits of peaceful cooperation outweigh hostilities.

India, unfortunately, has shied away from imposing costs, although the right to retaliate is a right enshrined in international law. Defending one’s interests against a terrorism onslaught, in fact, is a constitutional and moral obligation for any self-respecting country. The right of self-defence is embedded as an “inherent right” in the United Nations Charter. India did not impose costs on the terror masters in Pakistan even for the bloody Mumbai attacks. Will it allow them to go scot-free again?

Brahma Chellaney is a professor at the Centre for Policy Research.

**FRIEND OR FOE. KNOWING INDIA’S ENEMY. THE ART OF MILITARY INTELLIGENCE. APART FROM KNOWING ENEMY’S INTENTIONS, INDIA MUST DEMONSTRATE MILITARY PREPAREDNESS. THE ART OF PREPARING FOR WAR.**

FRIEND OR FOE – KNOWING INDIA’S ENEMY. THE ART OF MILITARY INTELLIGENCE. APART FROM KNOWING ENEMY, INDIA HAS TO DEMONSTRATE WILLINGNESS TO RESPOND TO ENEMY’S INTENTIONS BY GIVING EVIDENCE OF MILITARY PREPAREDNESS. THE ART OF PREPARING FOR WAR.

FRIEND OR ENEMY – KNOWING INDIA’S ENEMY. THE ART OF MILITARY INTELLIGENCE. KNOWING ENEMY MEANS RESPONDING TO ENEMY’S INTENTIONS THROUGH MILITARY PREPAREDNESS. THE ART OF PREPARING FOR WAR.

FRIEND OR FOE – KNOWING INDIA’S ENEMY. THE ART OF MILITARY INTELLIGENCE. BREAK ENEMY’S WILLINGNESS TO FIGHT WAR.

FRIEND OR FOE – KNOWING INDIA’S ENEMY. THE ART OF MILITARY INTELLIGENCE. INDIA’S ENEMY IS VISIBLE, ENEMY’S INTENTIONS ARE TANGIBLE, AND HENCE INDIA CAN CONTROL ENEMY’S FATE.

FRIEND OR FOE – KNOWING INDIA’S ENEMY. THE ART OF MILITARY INTELLIGENCE. KNOW THAT YOUR ENEMY KNOWS ABOUT YOUR MILITARY PREPAREDNESS.

FRIEND OR FOE – KNOWING INDIA’S ENEMY. THE ART OF MILITARY INTELLIGENCE. THE ART OF PREPARING FOR WAR LEADS TO PEACE WITHOUT THE NEED FOR WAR.

FRIEND OR FOE – KNOWING INDIA’S ENEMY. THE ART OF MILITARY INTELLIGENCE. APART FROM KNOWING ENEMY’S INTENTIONS, INDIA HAS TO COUNTERACT BY PREPARING FOR WAR IMPOSED BY ENEMY.

Bharat Darshan – Proud to be Indian- Legendary Hero Maharana Pratap

My father, Professor R. Suryanarayana Murthy taught Indian History to College students in various educational institutions spread across Madras Presidency and later Andhra Pradesh of India. He was inspired by India’s legendary hero Maharana Pratap of Mewar Kingdom. He named my elder brother as ‘PRATAP’ to give honor and to celebrate the legacy of Maharana Pratap.

Rudra Narasimham Rebbapragada
Ann Arbor, MI 48104-4162 USA
SPECIAL FRONTIER FORCE

The real story behind Maharana Pratap’s Death

Author: Prateek Pathak
Publication: Speakingtree.in
Date: March 17, 2015
URL: http://www.speakingtree.in/allslides/how-did-maharana-pratap-die

1. Maharana Pratap’s Life
Maharana Pratap was born in 1540. Rana Uday Singh of Mewar had 33 children, among them the eldest was Pratap Singh. Self-respect and virtuous behaviour were the main qualities of Pratap Singh.

2. Bold from Childhood
He was bold and brave right from his childhood and everyone was sure that he was going to be a very valiant person as he grew up. He was more interested in sports and learning to wield weapons rather than general education.

3. Coronation
During Maharana Pratap Singh’s time, Akbar was the Mughal Ruler in Delhi. His policy was to make use of the strength of Hindu kings to bring other Hindu Kings under his control. Many Rajput kings, abandoning their glorious traditions and fighting spirit, sent their daughters and daughters-in-law to the harem of Akbar with the purpose of gaining rewards and honour from Akbar.

4. Before the king died
Before his death, Rana Uday Singh appointed Jagammal, the son of his youngest wife, as his heir. Although Pratap Singh was elder to Jagammal but he was ready to give up his rights like Prabhu Ramchandra and go away from Mewar but the chieftains did not at all agree with their king’s decision.

5. Courage
Besides they were of the opinion that Jagammal did not possess qualities like courage and self-respect which were essential in a leader and king. Hence it was collectively decided that Jagammal would have to sacrifice the throne. Maharana Pratap Singh too gave due respect to the wish of the chieftains and the people of his kingdom and accepted the responsibility of leading the people of Mewar.

6. Unbreakable Oath to free the ‘Motherland’
The enemy had surrounded Mewar across all its boundaries. Shakti Singh and Jagammal, the two brothers of Maharana Pratap had joined Akbar. The first problem was to gather enough soldiers to fight a face-to-face war which would have required vast money.

7. Maharana Pratap’s Trust
But Maharana Pratap’s coffers were empty whereas Akbar had a large army, a lot of wealth and a lot more at his disposal. Maharana Pratap, however, did not get distracted or lost hope nor did he ever say that he was weak as compared to Akbar.

8. Concern
His only concern was to immediately free his motherland from the clutches of the Mughals. One day, he called a meeting of his trusted chieftains and made an appeal to them in his serious and lustrous speech. He said, “My brave warrior brothers, our Motherland, this holy land of Mewar, is still under the clutches of the Mughals. Today, I take an oath in front of all of you that till Chittod is freed, I will not have food in gold and silver plates, will not sleep on a soft bed and will not stay in the palace; instead I will eat food on a leaf-platter, sleep on the floor and stay in a hut. I will also not shave till Chittod is freed.

9. Brave Warriors
“My brave warriors, I am sure that you will support me in every way sacrificing your mind, body and wealth till this oath is fulfilled.” All the chieftains were inspired with the oath of their king and they too promised him that till their last drop of blood.

10. Rana Pratap Singh to free Chittod
They helped Rana Pratap Singh in fighting for Chittod and joined him in his battle against the Mughals; they would not retreat from their goal. They assured him, “Rana, be sure that we all are with you; waiting only for your signal and we are ready to sacrifice our life.”

11. Battle of Haldighati
Akbar tried his best to bring Rana Pratap under his clutches; but all in vain. Akbar got angry as no compromise could be arrived at with Rana Pratap and he declared a war. Rana Pratap also started preparations.

12. Shifted his capital to Kumbhalgad
He shifted his capital to Kumbhalgad in the Aravalli range of mountains which was difficult to access. He recruited tribal people and people dwelling in forests in his army. These people had no experience of fighting any war; but he trained them. He appealed to all Rajput chieftains to come under one flag for Mewar’s independence.

13. Pratap’s Army
Rana Pratap’s army of 22,000 soldiers met 2,00,000 soldiers of Akbar at Haldighat. Rana Pratap and his soldiers exhibited great valour in this battle although he had to retreat but Akbar’s army was not successful in completely defeating Rana Pratap.

14. Chetak
Along with Rana Pratap, his faithful horse named ‘Chetak’ also became immortal in this battle. ‘Chetak’ was seriously injured in the battle of Haldighat but to save his master’s life, it jumped over a big canal.

15. Chetak fell down
As soon as the canal was crossed, ‘Chetak’ fell down and died thus it saved Rana Pratap, risking its own life. The strong Maharana cried like a child over the death of his faithful horse. Later he constructed a beautiful garden at the place where Chetak had breathed its last.

16. Akbar’s attack
Then Akbar himself attacked Rana Pratap but even after 6 months of fighting the battle, Akbar could not defeat Rana Pratap and went back to Delhi. As a last resort, Akbar sent another great warrior General Jagannath in the year 1584 with a huge army to Mewar but after trying relentlessly for 2 years, even he could not catch Rana Pratap.

17. Harsh destiny
Wandering in the jungles and valleys of the mountains, Maharana Pratap used to take even his family with him. There was a constant danger of being attacked anytime from anywhere.

18. Proper Food
Getting proper food to eat was an ordeal in the forests. Many times, they had to go without food; they had to wander from one place to another without food and sleep in the mountains and forests. They had to leave the food and immediately proceed to another place on receiving information about the enemy’s arrival.

19. Trapped in catastrophe
They were constantly trapped in some catastrophe or the other. Once the Maharani was roasting ‘bhakris (Indian bread)’ in the forest; after eating their share, she asked her daughter to keep the left over ‘bhakri’ for dinner but at that time, a wild cat attacked and took away the piece of ‘bhakri’ from her hand leaving the princess crying helplessly.

20. Piece of ‘bhakri’
That piece of ‘bhakri’ was also not in her destiny. Rana Pratap felt sorry to see the daughter in such state; he got angry with his valour, bravery and self-respect and started thinking whether all his fighting and bravery was worth it. In such a wavering state of mind, he agreed to call a truce with Akbar.

21. A Poet’s ovation
A poet named Pruthviraj from Akbar’s court, who was an admirer of Maharana Pratap, wrote a long letter in the form of a poem to him in Rajasthani language boosting his morale and dissuading him from calling a truce with Akbar. With that letter, Rana Pratap felt as if he had acquired the strength of 10,000 soldiers. His mind became calm and stable. He gave up the thought of surrendering to Akbar, on the contrary, he started strengthening his army with more intensity and once again immersed himself in accomplishing his goal.

22. Devotion of Bhamashah
There was a Rajput chieftain serving as a minister in the regime of forefathers of Maharana Pratap. He was very much disturbed with the thought that his king had to wander in forests and was going through such hardships. He felt sorry to know about the difficult times Rana Pratap was going through. He offered a lot of wealth to Maharana Pratap that would allow him to maintain 25,000 soldiers for 12 years. Rana Pratap was very happy and felt very grateful. Initially, he refused to accept the wealth offered by Bhamashah but at his constant insistence, he accepted the offering.

23. Wealth from Bhamashah
After receiving wealth from Bhamashah, Rana Pratap started receiving money from other sources. He used all the money to expand his army and freed Mewar except Chittod which was still under the control of the Mughals.

24. Last wish
Maharana Pratap was lying on the bed made of grass even when he was dying as his oath of freeing Chittod was not still fulfilled. At the last moment, he took his son Amar Singh’s hand and handed over the responsibility of freeing Chittod to his son and died in peace.

25. Historical Importance
There is no comparison in history to his fight with a cruel emperor like Akbar. When almost the whole of Rajasthan was under the control of the Mughal Emperor Akbar, Maharana Pratap fought for 12 years to save Mewar. Akbar tried various means to defeat Maharana but he remained unbeatable till the end.

26. The Great Maharana Pratap
Besides, he also freed a large portion of land in Rajasthan from the Mughals. He underwent so much of hardship but he preserved the name of his family and his Motherland from facing defeat. His life was so bright that the other name for freedom could have been ‘Maharana Pratap’.

Bharat Darshan – Kumbhalgarh Fort, Rajasthan

I want to share with my readers the beautiful pictures of Kumbhalgarh Fort of Rajasthan, India. Please click on the photo images to view them in their full size. I give my thanks to Shri. Yashvir Tuli whose mail is forwarded to me. Indeed, the Fort is a little known wonder of India. The great builder of the Fort was killed by his own son, Uday Singh I during 1468 A.D. The Fort is thought to be the birthplace of great warrior, Maharana Pratap (May 9, 1540 to January 29, 1597) who had resisted the Mughal Emperor all his life. In the late 19th century, Rana Fateh Singh rebuilt the Palace. But, I must admit that I am disappointed to learn that this impenetrable Fort was captured by the combined forces of Raja Udai Singh, Raja Man Singh, the Sultan of Gujarat, and Mughal Emperor Akbar.

Rudra Narasimham Rebbapragada
Ann Arbor, MI 48104-4162, USA
Special Frontier Force -Establishment 22 – Vikas Regiment

Know Your India and Tell Others Too:

Kindly permit me to express my sense of gratitude and give the Image Credits to Flickr Users Lamentables, Bookchen, Dev, C P Chen, Dizzn an, TushyD, Honza Soukup, Kittell, Lumiere, Beth M527, Julynireland, and Plusgood. I thank all of them for sharing these beautiful images for the benefit of all others who had no chance to visit the beautiful Fort and its Great Wall at Kumbhalgarh, Rajasthan, India.

King Maharana Kumbha began the construction of this 36 Kms long Fort Wall in 1443 and it took about one hundred years to complete it. The Wall got further enlarged during 19th century. The Fort is built over a hill-top. The Fort Wall surrounds farm lands and there are about 360 Jaina and Hindu temples on this vast campus. The Wall may have separated the Kingdoms of Mewar, and Marwar. The Fort withstood enemy attacks and in its long history of about 500 years, the Fort fell into the hands of its enemy only once which speaks of the problem of disunity among Indians.

BHARAT DARSHAN - KUMBHALGARH FORT, RAJASTHAN. — BHARAT DARSHAN – KUMBHALGARH FORT, RAJASTHAN.

BHARAT DARSHAN - KUMBHALGARH, RAJASTHAN. — BHARAT DARSHAN – KUMBHALGARH, RAJASTHAN.

BHARAT DARSHAN - KUMBALGARH, RAJASTHAN. — BHARAT DARSHAN – THE GREAT FORT WALL OF KUMBHALGARH, RAJASTHAN.

Bharat Darshan-Kumbhalgarh-Great Wall of India-5 — BHARAT DARSHAN – KUMBHALGARH FORT, RAJASTHAN

BHARAT DARSHAN - THE GREAT FORT WALL, KUMBHALGARH, RAJASTHAN. — BHARAT DARSHAN – THE GREAT FORT WALL, KUMBHALGARH, RAJASTHAN.

BHARAT DARSHAN - GREAT FORT WALL, KUMBHALGARH, RAJASTHAN. — BHARAT DARSHAN – GREAT FORT WALL, KUMBHALGARH, RAJASTHAN.

BHARAT DARSHAN - GREAT FORT WALL OF KUMBHALGARH, RAJASTHAN. — BHARAT DARSHAN – GREAT FORT WALL OF KUMBHALGARH, RAJASTHAN.

BHARAT DARSHAN - THE GREAT FORT WALL OF KUMBHALGARH, RAJASTHAN. — BHARAT DARSHAN – THE GREAT FORT WALL OF KUMBHALGARH, RAJASTHAN.

BHARAT DARSHAN - THE GREAT FORT WALL OF KUMBHALGARH, RAJASTHAN. IT HAS SEVEN GATEWAYS. — BHARAT DARSHAN – THE GREAT FORT WALL OF KUMBHALGARH, RAJASTHAN. IT HAS SEVEN GATEWAYS.

BHARAT DARSHAN, KUMBHALGARH FORT AND ITS GREAT WALL IN RAJASTHAN.

BHARAT DARSHAN - THE GREAT FORT WALL ENTRANCE, KUMBHALGARH, RAJASTHAN. — BHARAT DARSHAN – THE GREAT FORT WALL ENTRANCE, KUMBHALGARH, RAJASTHAN.

BHARAT DARSHAN - THE GREAT FORT AND ITS WALL IN KUMBHALGARH, RAJASTHAN. — BHARAT DARSHAN – THE GREAT FORT AND ITS WALL IN KUMBHALGARH, RAJASTHAN.

BHARAT DARSHAN - KUMBHALGARH FORT AND ITS GREAT WALL. THE FORT INCLUDES ABOUT 360 JAINA AND HINDU TEMPLES. — BHARAT DARSHAN – KUMBHALGARH FORT AND ITS GREAT WALL. THE FORT INCLUDES ABOUT 360 JAINA AND HINDU TEMPLES.

BHARAT DARSHAN - A GREAT VIEW OF KUMBHALGARH FORT AND ITS GREAT WALL. — BHARAT DARSHAN – A GREAT VIEW OF KUMBHALGARH FORT AND ITS GREAT WALL.

BHARAT DARSHAN - KUMBHALGARH FORT. — BHARAT DARSHAN – KUMBHALGARH FORT.

BHARAT DARSHAN - KUMBHALGARH FORT, RAJASTHAN: THE FORT HAS SEVEN GATES AND THIS GATE IS KNOWN AS RAM POL OR RAM(LORD RAMA) GATE. — BHARAT DARSHAN – KUMBHALGARH FORT, RAJASTHAN: THE FORT HAS SEVEN GATES AND THIS GATE IS KNOWN AS RAM POL OR RAM(LORD RAMA) GATE.

BHARAT DARSHAN - KUMBHALGARH FORT, RAJASTHAN IS BUILT ON THE HILLTOP THAT IS IN THE ARAVALLI HILL RANGE. — BHARAT DARSHAN – KUMBHALGARH FORT, RAJASTHAN IS BUILT ON THE HILLTOP THAT IS IN THE ARAVALLI HILL RANGE.

BHARAT DARSHAN - KUMBHALGARH FORT, RAJASTHAN - AERIAL VIEW. — BHARAT DARSHAN – KUMBHALGARH FORT, RAJASTHAN – AERIAL VIEW.

BHARAT DARSHAN – CELEBRATION OF SIKHISM

BHARAT DARSHAN – CELEBRATION OF SIKHISM

On www.allindiaresults2014.com

On Saturday, January 16, 2016, Indians celebrate birthday of Guru Gobind Singh Ji Maharaj, the Founder of ‘KHALSA PANTH’ (The Order of Pure), who gave a great message to mankind by giving not only his own life but also of his very young children to defend Righteous Action. He was born in Patna, Bihar, India on December 22, 1666. His birthday(“JAYANTI”) is celebrated in December or January or even both months in the Gregorian Calendar. The annual celebration of Guru’s Birth Day or Jayanti is based on the ‘Nanakshahi’ Calendar.

“Deh Shiva var Moheihai, Shubh Karman Tey Kabhoon Naa Taron
Naa Taron Arsoun Jab Jaye Laroun, Nischay kar Apni Jeet Karoun.”

Every man has his honest duty to sacrifice for the noble cause of victory for saving his religion and humanity for having Blessings of thy LORD!

Guru Nanak(1469 – 1539) founder of Sikh religion taught monotheism and opposed idolatry and the ‘Caste’ system. He believed in the fundamental identity of all religions and stressed religious exercises and meditation. The Tenth and Last Guru Gobind Singh(1666 – 1708), created a warrior fraternity to oppose oppression and persecution by Islamic ruler, Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. Guru Gobind Singh introduced Sikh practices of wearing a turban and never cutting the hair. Following the partition of British India in 1947 about 2.5 million Sikhs moved from the West Punjab Province(now part of Pakistan) to East Punjab Province in India. While religions are all same, man is misguided by his perception of other men and of their religious identity.

Rudranarasimham Rebbapragada
Ann Arbor, MI 48104-4162 USA
SPECIAL FRONTIER FORCE

Guru Nanak Jayanti: Quotes, wishes, messages, greetings to celebrate 546th birthday of first Sikh guru Guru Nanak Jayanti: Quotes, wishes, messages, greetings to celebrate 546th birthday of first Sikh guru

By SACHIN JOSE Updated: November 25, 2015 00:29 IST

Representational image.IANS

The 546th birth anniversary of the first Sikh guru Guru Nanak falls on 25 November this year. Sikhs from across the world offer prayers at Gurudwaras to celebrate the auspicious day.
The festivities start with Prabhat Pheris, which are the early morning processions that starts from the Gurudwaras and devotees will go to nearby localities and chant hymns.

In Gurudwaras, Akhand Path — a forty-eight-hour continuous reading of the Guru Granth Sahib — is also held two days before the festival.
Below are quotes by Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism:

“Even Kings and emperors with heaps of wealth and vast dominion cannot compare with an ant filled with the love of God.”
“Let no man in the world live in delusion. Without a Guru none can cross over to the other shore.”
“I am neither a child, a young man, nor an ancient; nor am I of any caste.”
“Whatever kind of seed is sown in a field, prepared in due season, a plant of that same kind, marked with the peculiar qualities of the seed, springs up in it.”
“Alone let him constantly meditate in solitude on that which is salutary for his soul, for he who meditates in solitude attains supreme bliss.”
“One cannot comprehend Him through reason, even if one reasoned for ages.”
“I bow at His Feet constantly, and pray to Him, the Guru, the True Guru, has shown me the Way.”
“Through shallow intellect, the mind becomes shallow, and one eats the fly, along with the sweets.”
“Whatever be the qualities of the man with whom a woman is united according to the law, such qualities even she assumes, like a river, united with the ocean.”
“Owing to ignorance of the rope the rope appears to be a snake; owing to ignorance of the Self the transient state arises of the individualized, limited, phenomenal aspect of the Self.”

Below are some messages and greetings on Guru Nanak Jayanti:

Satguru Nanak Pargateya
Mitti Dund Jag Chanan Hoya,
Aap ji nu Sri Guru Nanak Devji
De Gurpurab dian Lakh-Lakh Vadaiyan
HAPPY GURPURAB
Nanak Naam Jahaaz Hai
Jo Chadhe So Uttre Paar!
Happy Guru Nanak Jayanti!
On the auspicious occasion of Gurupurab I wish that you are showered with Guru Ji’s divine blessings today and forever. Happy Gurupurab
Waheguru Ji Da Khalsa…….
Waheguru Ji Di Fateh…….
A Happy GURPURAB to you all
Jyo kar suraj nikleya..
Tare chupe haner ploa..
Miti dhund jag chanan hoa..
Kaal taarn guru nanak aiya..
Gurpurb Dee Lakh Lakh Wadai..!!
Raj karega khalsa, aakee rehae naa koe,
Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh!
Happy Gurpurab….!
Nanak Naam chardi Kala
Tere Bhane Sarbat Da Bhala”
On Guru Nanak Devji’s Birthday
wishing Babajis blessings be with you
Nanak Nich kahe vichaar,
Waria na jaava ek waar,
Jo tud bhave sai bhali kaar,
Tu sada salamat nirankaar
Gurpurb Dee Lakh Lakh Wadai
Kissi Ne Pucha Tera Karobaar Kitna Hai
Kssi Ne Pucha Tera Parivaar Kitna Hai
Koi Virla Hi Puch Da Hai
Tera Guru Naal Pyaar Kitna Hai
May Guru Ji inspire you to achieve all your goals
May His blessings be with you in whatever you do!
Happy Gurpurab
“Sabhna jiya ka ek daataa
so mai visar na jaaee”
May Guru Nanak Birthday
Enlighten your heart & mind
with knowledge & sanctity
Happy Guru Nanak Jayanti!

Article Published: November 25, 2015 00:18 IST

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WHAT IS MILITARY INTELLIGENCE? HOW TO KNOW YOUR ENEMY?

WHAT IS MILITARY INTELLIGENCE? HOW TO KNOW YOUR ENEMY?

On specials.rediff.com

I worked as Medical Officer in Armed Forces of India and Sultanate of Oman but I claim my professional experience or expertise in area called ‘Military Intelligence’ because of my lifetime regimental affiliation with military organization called ‘Special Frontier Force’ based in India. At a fundamental level, Military Intelligence is concerned with knowing your Enemy. In government operations, Intelligence involves evaluated information concerning the strength, activities, and probable course of action of its opponents. The concept of Military Intelligence is not new. To obtain knowledge of Enemy’s intentions, Intelligence Systems have been in use from ancient times. Military Service values military cooperation extended by military partners and yet such military alliance/pact/partnership and other acts of military cooperation may not conclusively exclude the possibility of an entity being ‘ENEMY’. My military training began with Art of Knowing Enemy as all military plans and actions are primarily concerned with neutralizing Enemy with or without Friend’s Support.

I am sharing an article published by Hindu Jagruti(www.hindujagruti.org) which deals with problems posed by India’s Enemy. The article titled, “ISOLATE, CONTAIN, SUFFOCATE, AND FIGHT PAKISTAN” fails to clearly identify India’s Enemies. It mentions that India is transformed into a nation of cowards. A characteristic trait of behavior called ‘cowardice’ involves secrecy. Thief is Coward by nature for he steals and robs secretly. To face any kind of military challenge from any direction, India has to get over this sense of ‘FEAR’ that shapes nature of Cowards. At Special Frontier Force, we gather military intelligence on behalf of the US Central Intelligence Agency or CIA to plan our military operations against common Enemy. The basic purpose of Military Intelligence is about knowing Enemy’s Mind, his intentions, his preparedness, his strength, and his weakness. For I am involved in Military Intelligence, I give attention to man’s mind and his mental preparation for war. As Doctor of Medicine, I examine men to judge their physical and mental fitness to fight war. This medical training to assess mental fitness to fight war helps me to analyze information relevant to Enemy’s mental fitness to fight war. I recognize the US military cooperation on one hand and to the same extent I recognize the US acting against India’s Security interests. In my analysis, isolating Pakistan is not the solution, for Pakistan’s actions are mere symptoms of an underlying disease. Pakistan exists under control of foreign domination and two major players are the US and Saudi Arabia. India cannot defend her security interests by taking actions against Pakistan as such actions will drive Pakistan more deeply to fall into the hands of Enemy. If India wants to display Courage, India has to overcome Fear, and confront real Enemy to reduce Enemy’s political, economic, military, and cultural influence in Pakistan.

At Special Frontier Force, I recognize China as Enemy but at the same time I am not afraid to acknowledge Enemy’s superior Intelligence capabilities. China does not sit back like a silent spectator. China is responding to the US influence in India by establishing military cooperation with Pakistan, Nepal, Burma, and Sri Lanka. This complex military game needs critical evaluation. India and the US are military partners to confront China and at the same time the US and Pakistan are military partners to undermine Indian Republic. This power imbalance is reflected in recent incidents like attack on IAF base in Pathankot. As things stand today, India has to seek better military cooperation with Russia to balance the US military influence in Pakistan. This is exactly what we have been doing since 1947-48 after Pakistan attacked India to capture Kashmir. Our military cooperation with Russia is not adequate. China is building roads and bridges in occupied Kashmir which is military infrastructure to fight against India. Just like Special Frontier Force that is still useful to defend Arunachal Pradesh, India and Russia have to create a new military force based in India to defend Punjab and Kashmir from acts of military aggression. Countries have rights to defend their own national interests. At the same time, India can extend economic cooperation to Pakistan to draw Pakistan away from Saudi Arabia. In that context, India has to increase economic and military cooperation with Republic of Iran to confront Saudi Arabia’s role in Pakistan.

Knowing Enemy is not too difficult. I recognize ideas and values that I share with my Friend. If Democracy, Freedom, Peace, and Justice are ideas and values that I personally cherish, I identify my Enemy as that entity who is opposed to these ideas and values.

Rudranarasimham Rebbapragada
Ann Arbor, MI 48104-4162 USA
SPECIAL FRONTIER FORCE

On www.segodnya.ua

Isolate, Contain, Suffocate and Fight Pakistan

January 10, 2016Leave a comment

Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif telephones our prime minister after a terror attack and we become happy, while his country has been protecting jihadist commander Maulana Masood Azhar since 1999.
The recent Pakistani attack on the Indian Air Force (IAF) base in Pathankot has demonstrated once again that India’s enemy is bold: it invades our territory frequently, fights for several days and kills our soldiers.
India is forced to fight the battle on its own soil, not in the enemy’s territory. After each attack, Home Minister Rajnath Singhsays: “We will give a befitting reply.” India waits for the enemy to attack so that it can offer a reply. Contrary to us, the enemy is on the offensive. India’s character is peaceful. As a result, for thousands of years, foreigners have invaded us.
Former President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam observed: “In 3000 years of our history, people from all over the world have come and invaded us, captured our lands, conquered our minds. From Alexander onwards. The Greeks, the Portuguese, the British, the French, the Dutch, all of them came and looted us, took over what was ours. Yet we have not done this to any other nation. We have not conquered anyone. We have not grabbed their land, their culture, their history tried to enforce our way of life on them.”
India has never invaded any country.
We have become a nation of cowards. We have always welcomed foreign invaders, lived with them and dined with them. It is not surprising then that India’s intellectuals, government officials, journalists and diplomats routinely advise the government to hold peace talks with Pakistan, knowing fully that this enemy will not desist.
A nation’s political and military leaders make decisions in a social atmosphere of ideas. India’s atmosphere of ideas is shaped by its journalists and commentators. Many journalists based in Delhi are also on the payroll of the Pakistani military’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), which creates and nurtures terrorist groups.
During its first year, the Modi government adopted a correct policy on the Pakistan border. For each Pakistani firing, India fought back strongly. Pakistanis were surprised. Peace ensued on the border. But the Pakistani Lobby in Delhi succeeded in convincing that Modi must visit Pakistan.
On December 25 when Modi was in Lahore, I tweeted: “After Modi’s Lahore visit, I will watch if there are terror attacks on Indian targets in Afghanistan or inside India.” Any expert could forecast that Modi’s Lahore visit will lead to terror attacks. After the Pathankot attack, the Indian Consulate in Mazar-e-Sharif was attacked, while the Indian Consulate in Jalalabad was also targeted.
Shiv Sena rightly said: Modi’s tea with Nawaz Sharif cost seven Indian soldiers in Pathankot. True that Modi went to extend a hand of friendship. But when you know the cobra sitting in a hole, you do not extend a hand of friendship; you smoke that cobra to death.
Over the past year, there were signs that India was surrendering its Pakistan policy to the fake secularism industry of Delhi. Under pressure, Modi surrendered when he sent Foreign Secretary S. Jaishankar to Islamabad in March. Modi surrendered when he sent National Security Adviser Ajit Doval to Bangkok for a secret meeting with his Pakistani counterpart.
And then the U.S. State Department took over India’s Pakistan policy. Under U.S. pressure, Modi sent Vice President Hamid Ansari to Turkmenistan in December to attend the ground-breaking ceremony of the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas pipeline.
Also, there are signs that Modi, like A.B. Vajpayee, wants to become a world leader by forging friendship with Pakistan. Before the attack in Pathankot, what was India losing by not holding talks with Pakistan? Why is it that the TAPI cannot wait for next twenty years?
If the U.S. is interested in shaping South Asia, why is it funding Pakistan’s jihadist military and its ISI, which launched attacks in Kargil, Mumbai and numerous times in Kashmir, and now in Punjab?
India’s Pakistan policy has been taken over by the Pakistani Lobby of Delhi and the U.S. State Department.
In his book Magnificent Delusions, former Pakistani ambassador to the U.S. Husain Haqqani notes that M.A. Jinnah held a meeting in May 1947, when Pakistan was still an idea, with two U.S. officials:Raymond Hare of the U.S. State Department and Thomas Weill of the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi. Jinnah told them: the creation of Pakistan was “essential to prevent ‘Hindu imperialism’ [from] spreading” to the Middle East.
Within a month of Pakistan’s creation in August 1947, Jinnah and other officials of the newly created Pakistan were interviewed by Margaret Bourke-White of LIFE magazine. Jinnah told her: “America needs Pakistan more than Pakistan needs America.” Pakistani officials told Bourke-White: “Surely America will build our army”; “Surely America will give us loans to keep Russia from walking in.”
If Bourke-White were interviewing Pakistani officials today, they would tell her this: America will fund our army to prevent terrorists. And then they would go on to create more terrorists.
Pakistan creates and nurtures terrorists with a dual aim: to keep the U.S. giving it money. To illustrate the point by current example, Pakistan began using F-16 fighter planes in Waziristan to bomb terrorists so that the U.S. will release funds for the Pakistani army. F-16 planes are meant to fight enemy states, not terrorists. In her book Fighting to the End,Christine Fair writes: “Pakistan’s efforts to employ political Islamists, and later Islamist militants in Afghanistan, began as early as the late 1950s.”
Pakistan’s use of jihadists in Kashmir in 1947-48 is well known to Indian readers. The use of jihadists was boosted by a strategy of infiltration as argued by Brig. A. A. K. Niazi, who would go on to surrender in Dhaka in 1971 to a victorious India.
Niazi wrote in 1964: “infiltration implies by-passing of enemy posts by relatively small parties which penetrate deep and unseen into the defences and converge at a pre-designated objective”; infiltration “will achieve much better results with far lesser casualties than any other form of attack.”
Over half a century since Niazi wrote these words, India is dealing with infiltration of Pakistani jihadists in Kashmir and now in Punjab.The best advice for India is: isolate this known enemy, do not have dinner with it; freeze talks and cricket with Pakistan.
The Indian strategy against this known enemy must be this: isolate, contain, suffocate and fight.

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TAT ASMI PRABHU – NATURAL VS SUPERNATURAL DUALISM

TAT ASMI PRABHU – NATURAL VS SUPERNATURAL DUALISM

Indian religious festival known as ‘MAKAR SANKRANTI’ is celebration of an event witnessed by man who dwells in ‘Natural’ or Terrestrial Realm recognizing Sun’s apparent journey across Sky which belongs to ‘Supernatural’ Realm. The separation and distinction between Natural and Supernatural Realm is important to understand the nature of man’s conditioned existence as a terrestrial organism. Firstly, I would extend ‘Happy Makar Sankranti Greetings to my readers and share some information about Sun’s Path across the Sky known as ECLIPTIC.

Tat Asmi Prabhu - Natural vs Supernatural Dualism. Sun's Ecliptic Path belongs to Supernatural Realm and this Motion is apparent to an observer who belongs to Natural or Terrestrial Realm. — **Tat Asmi Prabhu – Natural vs Supernatural Dualism. Sun’s Ecliptic Path belongs to Supernatural Realm and this Motion is apparent to an observer who belongs to Natural or Terrestrial Realm.**

Tat Asmi Prabhu - Natural VS Supernatural Dualism. Sun's Ecliptic Path. Is this a Problem of Visual Perception or does it describe Reality of man's conditioned existence in Natural or Terrestrial Realm? — Tat Asmi Prabhu – Natural VS Supernatural Dualism. Sun’s Ecliptic Path. Is this a Problem of Visual Perception or does it describe Reality of man’s conditioned existence in Natural or Terrestrial Realm?

Tat Asmi Prabhu - Natural Vs Supernatural Dualism. Sun's apparent motion or path in Supernatural or Extraterrestrial Realm crossing Signs of Zodiac. — **Tat Asmi Prabhu – Natural Vs Supernatural Dualism. Sun’s apparent motion or path in Supernatural or Extraterrestrial Realm crossing Signs of Zodiac.**

Tat Asmi Prabhu - Natural Vs Supernatural Dualism. While Sun belongs to Supernatural or Extraterrestrial Realm, Sun's Power/Energy/Force dominates Natural or Terrestrial Realm. — **Tat Asmi Prabhu – Natural Vs Supernatural Dualism. While Sun belongs to Supernatural or Extraterrestrial Realm, Sun’s Power/Energy/Force dominates Natural or Terrestrial Realm.**

TAT ASMI PRABHU – NATURAL Vs SUPERNATURAL DUALISM. MAKAR SANKRANTI IS A FESTIVAL CELEBRATED IN INDIA IN RECOGNITION OF SUN’S CELESTIAL JOURNEY IN SUPERNATURAL OR EXTRATERRESTRIAL REALM, WHEN SUN ENTERS THE ZODIAC SIGN OF CAPRICORN OR ‘MAKAR’ ON THURSDAY, JANUARY 14, 2016

I am happy to extend my greetings to all of my readers on this festive occasion called ‘SANKRANTI’. In Indian tradition, Sun is represented as personification of the Divine Energy that sustains the life of all that lives on planet Earth. Apart from being the source of primary Energy, Sun is viewed as the Source of Knowledge and Indians seek Lord Surya, the Sun God’s blessings to illuminate their inner, mental world to banish darkness called ignorance. This would lead me to reflect about the theory of knowledge and the revolutionary change caused by Immanuel Kant in understanding our philosophic problems and procedures. In the context of our celebration of the Indian festival of ‘SANKRANTI’, I would like to pay a special tribute to Nicholas Copernicus(1457-1543) who laid the foundation for modern astronomy with his heliocentric theory of planetary motion which replaced the geocentric cosmological theory established by Ptolemy(Claudius Ptolemaeus) of 2nd century A.D. Ptolemy’s theory placed Earth motionless at the center of the universe with all celestial bodies revolving around it. Copernican system places the Sun motionless at the center of the solar system with all the planets, including Earth, revolving around it.

THE THEORY OF KNOWLEDGE – A COPERNICAN REVOLUTION:

**Nicholas Copernicus, Polish astronomer caused a revolutionary change in Astronomy for he had reversed the way scientists think about the relationship of the Earth and the Sun.**

Copernicus caused a revolution when he discerned reflections of the Earth’s own motion in the apparent motions of the planets, and stars. To the same extent, German philosopher Immanuel Kant(1724-1804) had inaugurated a new era in the development of philosophical thought. He did comprehensive, and systematic work in Theory of Knowledge, Ethics, and Aesthetics.

Immanuel Kant had reversed the way philosophers think about the relationship of the world of experience and the mind. As per Kant, the mind is not shaped by the world of experience; rather, the world of experience is shaped by the patterns set by the mind.

Kant had altered the nature of philosophic inquiry. He had recognized the limits of the philosophical traditions of both Empiricism that stresses Experience, and Rationalism that stresses Reason. He had analyzed the tradition of Rene Descartes(Rationalism) and had clarified the tradition of Francis Bacon(Empiricism). Kant attempted to incorporate both Experience and Reason, without falling into the Skepticism of the empirical school and without embracing the unverifiable metaphysical structure of the rationalist school. He had criticized Leibniz rationalism in his book, “Critique of Pure Reason”(1781). In Kant’s view, objective reality is known only insofar as it conforms to the essential structure of the knowing mind. Only objects of experience or phenomena may be known. Things lying beyond experience or noumena are unknowable. Kant stated that the human mind provides the forms and the categories that can be used to describe experience. He held the view that the problems like the existence of God, freedom, and immortality are insoluble by scientific thought. Kant had proudly asserted that he had accomplished a Copernican Revolution in philosophy. He claimed that the subject doing the knowing constitutes, to a considerable extent, the object of knowing; i.e., that knowledge is in part constituted by the mind itself which imposes its influence upon the data of experience. Hence, knowledge is the product of the knowing subject and not a simple description of an external reality. Kant had accounted for the application of the mind’s principles to objects by showing that the objects conform to the mind; in knowing, it is not mind that confirms to things but things confirm to the mind. I have to examine this issue for its relevance to the fundamental concern about human existence.

SPIRITUALISM – A COPERNICAN REVOLUTION:

SUN - SPIRITUALISM - COPERNICAN REVOLUTION: In a moving world and universe called "JAGAT", the entity called Soul and Spirit, or "BHAVANA" provides the unchanging operating system to make the human existence a reality. — SUN – SPIRITUALISM – COPERNICAN REVOLUTION: In a moving world and universe called “JAGAT”, the entity called Soul and Spirit, or “BHAVANA” provides the unchanging operating system to make the human existence a reality.

Sun's Celestial Journey - Spiritualism - Copernican Revolution : Spiritualism is the potency that brings man's essence and existence to come together to provide man the subjective and objective reality of his own existence in the physical, or material world. — Sun’s Celestial Journey – Spiritualism – Copernican Revolution : Spiritualism is the potency that brings man’s essence and existence to come together to provide man the subjective and objective reality of his own existence in the physical, or material world.

Man’s earthly existence is conditioned by constant change under the influence of Space and Time. To make Life happen, the existence has to be synchronized with the external events on which man has no control. While Earth is spinning at an amazing speed, man perceives Earth as a motionless object, and experiences the apparent motions of planets and stars. The speed of Earth’s motion is not compatible with human existence. The reality of Sun shining brightly in the sky all the time is not also helpful for human existence. Man needs alternating periods of light and darkness called day, and night. Human existence demands alternating periods of wakefulness and sleep. To experience the physical reality called existence, man needs the influence of a powerful illusion that changes the perception of reality of this world, and universe that is constantly changing, and moving. Man exists for he cannot alter the nature of this sensory experience that generates the Celestial Journey of Sun across the heavenly dome. In Indian tradition, it is stated that the Creative Energy called “MAYA” clouds man’s sense of perception of the world experience and man has no ability to overcome the Power/Force/Energy that causes ‘ILLUSION’. The phenomena called ‘ILLUSION’ is not generated by the mind. This world experience caused by ‘ILLUSION’ has a survival value as it intends to protect man from the harsher reality of Truth. To a discerning mind it appears that man needs the guiding and regulative mechanism called Soul and Spirit to perform his living functions in a moving, and changing world. Soul establishes man’s dependence upon an external source of energy and hence Soul is always associated with the living body. The unity of man’s body and Soul could be named as the ‘God-Connection’ as this ‘Connection’ is not formulated by man’s mental, or physical work. This ‘God-Connection’ helps the Spirit to express its desire for Freedom which includes a desire to seek Freedom from the world experience called ‘Death’. If Soul and Spirit are present in the living body that exists in the earthly, material realm, it points towards the operation of the Divine Providence in this terrestrial realm. If God by the nature of His existence is present in the immanent realm, the problems of metaphysics such as Freedom, Immortality, and God’s existence do not belong to unknowable, transcendental realm. I may have to suggest that Kant could be wrong in his view about the relationship between human mind, and the world of experience. Man is fortunate for things of world experience do not always confirm to the knowing mind.

Rudra N. Rebbapragada/R. Rudra Narasimham, B.Sc., M.B.B.S.,

Ann Arbor, Michigan, U.S.A.,

Organization: The Spirits of Special Frontier Force.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Spirits-of-Special-Frontier-Force/362056613878227

Related articles:

1. Are we living in a Designer Universe – Article by Astronomer John Gribbin. http://Bhavanajagat.com/2010/09/05/Are-We-Living-in-a-Designer-Universe-article-by-John-Gribbin/

2. The Grand Design By Stephen Hawking – God Did Not Create the Universe. http://Bhavanajagat.com/2010/09/09/The-Grand-Design-By-Stephen-Hawking-God-Did-Not-Create-The-Universe/

3. The Creation of Day and Night – A Synchronized Existence. http://Bhavanajagat.com/2010/04/22/The-Creation-of-Day-and-Night-A-Synchronized-Existence/

4. Earthly Existence – The Cosmic Connection. http://Bhavanajagat.com/2010/04/06/Earthly-Existence-The-Cosmic-Connection/

Bharat Darshan – Ram Setu – World Heritage Site

Excerpt: The author, a proponent of rational thinking, emphasizes the credit due to the nameless workers who built India’s monumental structures, including the Taj Mahal and ‘Adam’s Bridge’ or Setu Bandhanam. He argues that the bridge popularly known as Ram Setu is not merely a symbol of royal orders, but represents the heritage of their builders, possibly of Dravidian origin. The author advocates for the preservation of Adam’s Bridge as a World Heritage Site, similar to the Taj Mahal and the Pyramids. He affirms that the Indian government shouldn’t destroy this structure to build a shipping channel, as once attempted, later suspended by India’s Supreme Court.

Taj Mahal or Setu Bandhanam – Who lifted the stones? SETU SAMUDRAM – LORD RAMA’S BRIDGE ACROSS THE SEA – THE STORY OF RAMAYANA GIVES A VERY VIVID ACCOUNT OF THIS BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION.

I would very much love to be known as a rational thinker and my faith is just a byproduct of my rational thinking. I started my life in Mylapore, Madras and shared my story as to how Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam gave me concerns about my Identity. Kindly refer to my entry titled ‘Defining Indian Identity – The Language Factor’

https://bhavanajagat.wordpress.com/2007/08/13/defining-indian-identity-the-language-factor/ .

I grew up in the Smarta tradition founded by Adi Shankaracharya, and rational thinking is always acceptable to me. The ancient Land of India is known for lively debates and the battle of intellects at all of its seats of higher learning.

TAJ MAHAL - WHO HAD LIFTED THE STONES? — **Taj Mahal or Setu Bandhanam – Who lifted the stones?**

We often attach too much importance to the Kings and the Emperors who had ordered building of monuments such as the Pyramids or the Taj Mahal. The real credit should be given to those nameless workers who had actually labored, carved and lifted the stones and made the monuments a cherished reality.

The ‘Adam’s Bridge has generated some controversy. The DMK Party leader M.K. Karunanidhi would prefer to view this structure as the legacy of Prince Rama, an Aryan person. I would like to say that we must give recognition to the denizens who had lived south of Vindhya mountains. They lifted the stones and the trees and built this land connection to Sri Lanka. If these workers were of Dravidian origin, the Adam’s Bridge represents the heritage of Dravidians.

Taj Mahal or Setu Bandhanam – Who lifted the stones? Adam’s Bridge, Lord Rama’s Bridge across the Sea, Setu Bandhanam – Sage Valmiki gave a very detailed account of its construction in his epic poem known as Ramayana. I give credit to all those denizens of Southern India who had lifted the stones and trees to participate in this Herculean Project.

India’s epic poem Valmiki Ramayan describes building of a Causeway across the narrow strait that separates India and Sri Lanka.

**Taj Mahal or Setu Bandhanam – Who lifted the stones?**

Apart from literary evidence, there is evidence particularly gathered by satellite images to verify the fact of a Causeway built over shallow waters. This historical construction may belong to 5076 BCE and this site deserves protection as World Heritage Site just like the Pyramids or Taj Mahal. In the past, Supreme Court of India restrained Government of India from constructing a shipping channel called ‘Setu Samudram’ and the project was suspended. In my view, Government of India has no right to destroy this site for purposes of building a shipping channel.

Dr. R. Rudra Narasimham, B.Sc., M.B.B.S.,

Kurnool Medical College, Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, India,

M.B.B.S., Class of April, 1970.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FgSINZO_VuI

**BHARAT DARSHAN – RAM SETU – WORLD HERITAGE SITE**

India’s epic poem Valmiki Ramayan describes building of a Causeway across the narrow strait that separates India and Sri Lanka. Apart from literary evidence, there is evidence particularly gathered by satellite images to verify the fact of a Causeway built over shallow waters. This historical construction may belong to 5076 BCE and this site deserves protection as World Heritage Site just like the Pyramids or Taj Mahal. In the past, Supreme Court of India restrained Government of India from constructing a shipping channel called ‘Sethu Samudram’ and the project was suspended. In my view, Government of India has no right to destroy this site for purposes of building a shipping channel.

RAM SETU – Engineering Marvel of 5076 BCE...

This film brings to light the layers of bridge construction, and the month and the year, when the Rama Setu (bridge) was built . Watch it
and share it with others. It is not just another story, but a 7100 year old engineering marvel of our INDIAN – CIVILIZATION.

BLESSED CHRISTMAS ON FULL MOON DAY

BLESSED CHRISTMAS ON FULL MOON DAY

On this 2015 Christmas Day, I am specially blessed for it happened on Full Moon Day. I feel a sense of Joy that relieves my burden. The thought that uplifted my soul today is a promise made by Jesus from The Gospel According to Saint Matthew, Chapter 11, Verse.28: ” Come to Me, all who labor and are heavy burdened, and I will give you rest.”

**BLESSED CHRISTMAS ON FULL MOON DAY. BLESSINGS OF JESUS FROM MATTHEW 11:28**

Rudranarasimham Rebbapragada
Ann Arbor, MI 48104-4162 USA
SPECIAL FRONTIER FORCE

BLESSED CHRISTMAS ON FULL MOON DAY, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2015. BLESSINGS FROM THE BOOK OF MATTHEW, CHAPTER 11, VERSE, 28. — **BLESSED CHRISTMAS ON FULL MOON DAY, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2015. BLESSINGS OF JESUS FROM THE BOOK OF MATTHEW, CHAPTER 11, VERSE, 28.**

INVESTMENT UNDERGROUND

Rare full moon makes an appearance on Christmas Day

**BLESSED CHRISTMAS ON FULL MOON DAY. BLESSINGS OF JESUS FROM THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO SAINT MATTHEW, CHAPTER 11, VERSE 28.**

Asteroid To Pass By Earth On Christmas Eve

ROGELIO ESTRADA 25 December, 2015.

The final full moon of the year is also called the Full Cold Moon because it happens during the start of winter.

According to NASA, there won’t be another full moon on Christmas Day until 2034 – so even if you’re in a food coma after Christmas Dinner, it’s worth looking out the window to try and catch a glimpse of it.

“Amazingly, the moon’s phases recur on [or near] the same calendar dates every 19 years”.

Space enthusiasts can expect two spectacular gifts this holiday season, including an asteroid that will be passing by Earth today and a full moon on December 25. When the moon turns full, it will be the first full moon to fall on Christmas day since 1977.

The almost full-moon is seen among Christmas lights at a holiday display Thursday, Dec. 24, 2015, in Lenexa, Kan.

Finland’s Ursa Astronomical Association, the oldest and largest amateur astronomy association in the country, states on its website that a full moon will shine down on Finland the night of December 25th. The moon’s peak this year will occur at 6:11 a.m. EST.

“The geologic history of the moon and Earth are intimately tied together such that the Earth would be a dramatically different planet without the moon”.

If you were lucky enough to get a telescope for Christmas then great, but a simple pair of binoculars can provide an awesome view of the moon – the various craters and markings on the surface will be much more visible.

LRO has collected a treasure trove of data with its seven powerful instruments, making an invaluable contribution to our knowledge about the moon.

Rare Christmas Full Moon Will Be the First Since 1977

**BLESSED CHRISTMAS ON FULL MOON DAY. BLESSINGS OF JESUS FROM THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO SAINT MATTHEW, CHAPTER 11, VERSE 28. THE SKY THIS WEEK; DECEMBER 18 – DECEMBER 25. Astronomy.com**

Blessed Christmas On Full Moon Day. First Full Moon of Winter Season is known as Cold Full Moon. Friday, December 25, 2015. Blessings of Jesus from Matthew 11:28.

Blessed Christmas on Full Moon Day. Blessings of Jesus from Matthew 11:28. “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”

BLESSED CHRISTMAS ON FULL MOON DAY, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2015. BLESSINGS OF JESUS FROM THE BOOK OF MATTHEW, CHAPTER 11, VERSE, 28. “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”

Blessed Christmas on Full Moon Day, Friday, December 25, 2015. Blessings of Jesus from Matthew 11:28.

Blessed Christmas on Full Moon Day. Blessings of Jesus from the Book of Matthew, Chapter 11, 28.

TAT ASMI PRABHO – FIFTH MAHAVAKYA – ANIMATE VS INANIMATE DUALISM

TAT ASMI PRABHO – FIFTH MAHAVAKYA – ANIMATE VS INANIMATE DUALISM

Indian Schools of Thought, ADVAITA(NONDUALISM), VISISHTADVAITA(QUALIFIED NONDUALISM), and DVAITA(DUALISM) account for man and world by describing three fundamental orders called 1. God, 2. Soul, and 3. Matter. However, they fail to account for Animate vs Inanimate Dualism. This distinction is very important as most philosophers, religious scholars, and writers tend to separate human soul from its human body. Soul is explained as immortal, immutable, imperishable, indestructible, unborn, and even uncreated principle that is distinct from human body that is explained as perishable, insensible, inert, illusion, or even unreal. In my analysis, the division or separation of man into Imperishable Soul, and Perishable Body is fundamentally flawed.

ANIMATE VS INANIMATE DUALISM

The entire human organism is “SENSIBLE” for it receives and responds to stimuli from outside objects or agencies. Human body as such can cause or perceive physical sensation, susceptible to stimuli, and is changing or responding readily in presence of some external force or condition. Human body begins as a single, fertilized Egg Cell that constantly responds to changing stimuli and its response is manifested by varying morphological appearance from conception to death. The term ‘inanimate’ is used to imply ‘inert’ nature of matter that is without power to move, act, or resist, and often denotes having few or no active properties. The distinction or dualism or separation of animate and inanimate has to be discerned by observing functions and actions performed by Animate and Inanimate Matter. Actions are divided into two kinds; 1. Transitive Action, and 2. Immanent Action. Similarly, Performances are of two kinds; 1. Mechanical Operations, and 2. Vital Operations or actions done by Mechanical Power or Vital Power. Action of one inert body upon another is called Transitive Action. Heating a stone is a Transitive Action; in heating, the hot thing loses its own heat. In Immanent Action, the agent performing action is perfected by its own act. Unlike a stone exposed to Sun radiation, a plant grows and develops using Sun’s energy. Such growth and development involve sensing and understanding and the results of such actions remain in the agent performing such acts. The distinction or separation of Mechanical Operations and Vital Operations is marked by use of ‘INTELLIGENCE’ in performance of actions. Intelligent Performance involves purposiveness, guided to achieve a future end, selection of means or goal orientation, and sequential actions. Consciousness describes difference between vital operations and mechanical operations. Consciousness accounts for differences between vital powers and capacities of inert matter. Consciousness establishes the boundary between Animate and Inanimate Matter. The nature of actions performed can be examined by understanding Oxidation-Reduction Chemical Reactions, actions that are performed by both living and nonliving matter.

A forest fire generates light and heat but it lacks purposiveness of fire lit by man.

TAT ASMI PRABHU - FIFTH MAHAVAKYA - ANIMATE VS INANIMATE DUALISM. MAN LITS FIRE TO ACCOMPLISH A TASK SUCH AS PREPARING A MEAL OR TO PERFORM A RITUAL CALLED 'HOMA' OR 'YAJNA'. — **TAT ASMI PRABHU – FIFTH MAHAVAKYA – ANIMATE VS INANIMATE DUALISM. MAN LITS FIRE TO ACCOMPLISH A TASK SUCH AS PREPARING A MEAL OR TO PERFORM A RITUAL CALLED ‘HOMA’ OR ‘YAJNA’.**

Man lits fire to accomplish a task such as preparing a meal in his kitchen or to perform a ritual called ‘Homa’, or ‘Yajna’ in Indian tradition. While man uses fire for a variety of purposes, a distinction has to be made between fire, combustion or rapid oxidation and Oxidation-Reduction Chemical Reaction used by living things to generate heat and energy to perform a range of living functions called ‘Metabolism’.

TAT ASMI PRABHU - FIFTH MAHAVAKYA - ANIMATE VS INANIMATE DUALISM. BOTH LIVING AND NONLIVING CAN PERFORM OXIDATION-REDUCTION CHEMICAL REACTIONS. THE LIVING USE THIS REACTION WITH PURPOSIVENESS. — **TAT ASMI PRABHU – FIFTH MAHAVAKYA – ANIMATE VS INANIMATE DUALISM. BOTH LIVING AND NONLIVING CAN PERFORM OXIDATION-REDUCTION CHEMICAL REACTIONS. THE LIVING USE THIS REACTION WITH PURPOSIVENESS.**

Living or Animate Matter has inherent ability to attract both living and nonliving matter found in its external environment to acquire energy, to manipulate energy, and to exploit energy taking advantage of mechanical principles shared by Physics and Chemistry.

TAT ASMI PRABHU - FIFTH MAHAVAKYA - ANIMATE VS INANIMATE DUALISM. PHOTOSYNTHESIS, AND RESPIRATION HAVE TO BE UNDERSTOOD AS INTELLIGENT, VITAL OPERATIONS INVOLVING IMMANENT ACTIONS. — **TAT ASMI PRABHU – FIFTH MAHAVAKYA – ANIMATE VS INANIMATE DUALISM. PHOTOSYNTHESIS, AND RESPIRATION HAVE TO BE UNDERSTOOD AS INTELLIGENT, VITAL OPERATIONS INVOLVING IMMANENT ACTIONS.**

Living Operations such as Photosynthesis and Respiration are vital functions for they provide energy to further perform a variety of Immanent Actions whose results are retained by agents of those acts.

TAT ASMI PRABHU - FIFTH MAHAVAKYA - ANIMATE VS INANIMATE DUALISM. MITOCHONDRIA ARE INTRACELLULAR ORGANELLE INVOLVED IN PERFORMING OXIDATION-REDUCTION CHEMICAL REACTIONS TO OBTAIN ENERGY, AND TO GENERATE NEW FORMS OF CHEMICAL ENERGY TO PERFORM LIVING FUNCTIONS. — TAT ASMI PRABHU – FIFTH MAHAVAKYA – ANIMATE VS INANIMATE DUALISM. MITOCHONDRIA ARE INTRACELLULAR ORGANELLE INVOLVED IN PERFORMING OXIDATION-REDUCTION CHEMICAL REACTIONS TO OBTAIN ENERGY, AND TO GENERATE NEW FORMS OF CHEMICAL ENERGY TO CARRY OUT LIVING FUNCTIONS.

A stone when heated acquires energy but stone has no ability to further manipulate and exploit that energy to perform sequential, goal-oriented actions. Mitochondria, intracellular organelle found inside living cells, are involved in performing oxidation-reduction chemical reactions to obtain energy, and to generate new forms of chemical energy to carry out a variety of living functions. Inert or Inanimate Matter is governed purely by mechanical principles and its transformations and processes obeying Laws of Physics and Chemistry. The Phenomenon of Life, and Animate Matter involves processes and transformations that go beyond obeying elementary Laws of Physics and Chemistry.

ETERNAL, IMMORTAL NATURE OF CHEMICAL ELEMENTS

Both Animate and Inanimate Matter is made up of Chemical Elements which display characteristics that can be called eternal, immortal, immutable, imperishable, indestructible, unborn, and uncreated. Animate Matter exists because of this potential capacity or power of Inanimate Matter. There is cyclical flow of Chemical Elements in Nature where this transition from Animate to Inanimate Matter plays a crucial role to operate biological phenomena of Life and Death. While it is important to make distinction or separation of Animate and Inanimate Matter, it is important to note fundamental capacity or power of Chemical Elements to maintain physical and chemical properties without changing under the influence of ‘TIME’.

TAT ASMI PRABHU - FIFTH MAHAVAKYA - ANIMATE VS INANIMATE DUALISM. BOTH ANIMATE AND INANIMATE MATTER DERIVE THEIR IDENTITY BECAUSE OF UNVARYING OR UNCHANGING NATURE OF CHEMICAL ELEMENTS THAT CONTINUOUSLY FLOW IN NATURAL NUTRIENT CYCLES. — TAT ASMI PRABHU – FIFTH MAHAVAKYA – ANIMATE VS INANIMATE DUALISM. BOTH ANIMATE AND INANIMATE MATTER DERIVE THEIR IDENTITY BECAUSE OF UNVARYING OR UNCHANGING NATURE OF CHEMICAL ELEMENTS THAT CONTINUOUSLY FLOW IN NATURAL NUTRIENT CYCLES.

TAT ASMI PRABHU - FIFTH MAHAVAKYA - ANIMATE VS INANIMATE DUALISM. OXYGEN CYCLE INVOLVES BOTH ANIMATE AND INANIMATE MATTER. — **TAT ASMI PRABHU – FIFTH MAHAVAKYA – ANIMATE VS INANIMATE DUALISM. OXYGEN CYCLE INVOLVES BOTH ANIMATE AND INANIMATE MATTER.**

TAT ASMI PRABHU - FIFTH MAHAVAKYA - ANIMATE VS INANIMATE DUALISM. WATER CYCLE INVOLVES BOTH ANIMATE AND INANIMATE MATTER. — **TAT ASMI PRABHU – FIFTH MAHAVAKYA – ANIMATE VS INANIMATE DUALISM. WATER CYCLE INVOLVES BOTH ANIMATE AND INANIMATE MATTER.**

TAT ASMI PRABHU - FIFTH MAHAVAKYA - ANIMATE VS INANIMATE DUALISM. CARBON CYCLE INVOLVES FLOW OF MATTER FROM ANIMATE TO INANIMATE. — **TAT ASMI PRABHU – FIFTH MAHAVAKYA – ANIMATE VS INANIMATE DUALISM. CARBON CYCLE INVOLVES FLOW OF MATTER FROM ANIMATE TO INANIMATE.**

TAT ASMI PRABHU - FIFTH MAHAVAKYA - ANIMATE VS INANIMATE DUALISM. NITROGEN CYCLE INVOLVES CYCLICAL EXCHANGE OF MATTER BETWEEN INANIMATE AND ANIMATE. — **TAT ASMI PRABHU – FIFTH MAHAVAKYA – ANIMATE VS INANIMATE DUALISM. NITROGEN CYCLE INVOLVES CYCLICAL EXCHANGE OF MATTER BETWEEN INANIMATE AND ANIMATE.**

TAT ASMI PRABHU - FIFTH MAHAVAKYA - ANIMATE VS INANIMATE DUALISM. PHOSPHORUS CYCLE DESCRIBES CYCLICAL FLOW OF CHEMICAL MOLECULES FROM INANIMATE TO ANIMATE. — **TAT ASMI PRABHU – FIFTH MAHAVAKYA – ANIMATE VS INANIMATE DUALISM. PHOSPHORUS CYCLE DESCRIBES CYCLICAL FLOW OF CHEMICAL MOLECULES FROM INANIMATE TO ANIMATE.**

The division or separation, or distinction of man as perishable body and imperishable Soul is fundamentally flawed for both Animate and Inanimate Matter derive their nature from unvarying and unchanging properties of Chemical Elements. Animate vs Inanimate Dualism is primarily based upon Vital Operations and Mechanical Operations and it is not concerned with physical or chemical properties of Matter. To that extent, in my analysis, the Four Upanishadic Mahavakyas take an approach not supported by reality of Matter.

RUDRANARASIMHAM REBBAPRAGADA

BHAVANAJAGAT.ORG

Tat Asmi Prabhu - Fifth Mahavakya - Animate vs Inanimate Dualism. The separation of Man into perishable body and imperishable soul is flawed. It is correct to say Man(Body and Soul) is united with LORD God or 'PRABHU'. — Tat Asmi Prabhu – Fifth Mahavakya – Animate vs Inanimate Dualism. The separation of Man into perishable body and imperishable soul is flawed. It is correct to say Man(Body and Soul) is united with LORD God or ‘PRABHU’.

Tat asmi Prabhu - Fifth Mahavakya - Animate vs Inanimate Dualism. Man, Body, and Soul are united by LORD God or 'PRABHU' who still remains aloof, disinterested, or separate from both Animate and Inanimate Matter. GOD is a separate order distinct from Animate and Inanimate Matter. — Tat asmi Prabhu – Fifth Mahavakya – Animate vs Inanimate Dualism. Man, Body, and Soul are united by LORD God or ‘PRABHU’ who still remains aloof, disinterested, or separate from both Animate and Inanimate Matter. GOD is a separate order distinct from Animate and Inanimate Matter.

Tat asmi Prabhu - Fifth Mahavakya - Animate vs Inanimate Dualism. The separation of Man into perishable Body and Imperishable Soul is flawed. — **Tat asmi Prabhu – Fifth Mahavakya – Animate vs Inanimate Dualism. The separation of Man into perishable Body and Imperishable Soul is flawed.**

Tat asmi Prabhu - Fifth Mahavakya - Animate vs Inanimate Dualism. The separation of Man into perishable Body and Imperishable Soul is flawed. It will be correct to state that Man(Body and Soul) or "TAT" is united with(ASMI) Prabhu or LORD God. — Tat asmi Prabhu – Fifth Mahavakya – Animate vs Inanimate Dualism. The separation of Man into perishable Body and Imperishable Soul is flawed. It will be correct to state that Man(Body and Soul) or “TAT” is united with(ASMI) Prabhu or LORD God.

TAT ASMI PRABHO – FIFTH MAHAVAKYA – MATERIAL vs SPIRITUAL DUALISM

TAT ASMI PRABHO – FIFTH MAHAVAKYA – MATERIAL vs SPIRITUAL DUALISM

In Indian tradition, the phenomenon of universe, world, and everything that exists is divided into three fundamental orders; 1. Matter, 2. Soul, and 3. God. To account for three distinct orders, Indian tradition applies three fundamental divisions or Dualism; 1. Animate – Inanimate, 2. Material – Spiritual, and 3. Natural – Supernatural. Any study of Life and Consciousness demands proper understanding of Material vs Spiritual Dualism.

The dimension called ‘Matter’ is easy to understand as matter occupies space, matter has mass, and matter has properties that can be measured or verified. Natural Sciences like Physics and Chemistry explain matter is constituted by Chemical Elements which can be known by their properties and consistent configuration called Atomic Numbers. The Fundamental Laws of Conservation of Mass and Energy describe that matter and energy can neither be created nor destroyed. Chemical Elements have attributes such as indestructibility, imperishability, immutability, immortality, and can be said to be eternal or unborn. Some of these attributes of matter are attached to the second order called Soul. There is no surprise if Soul is described as unborn, eternal, indestructible, immortal, immutable, uncreated, and imperishable. There is association between Matter and Soul as they share same or similar attributes and their distinction becomes apparent when observing and experiencing their interactions. There will be a concern about mass, weight, volume, space, and similar physical quantities if Soul is explained as a material substance. At the same time, there is no need to explain Soul as an immaterial substance or entity which cannot be known or experienced. The order called Soul accounts for fundamental distinction between living and nonliving matter in which we can study the same physical or chemical Elements. The difference between sensible and insensible matter involves recognition of functional attributes such as Consciousness and Intelligence, which are cognitive functions. Living Matter is aware of something. What is this something which living things know about? Living things are essentially aware or conscious of the fact of their own living condition, at a given place, given time, and given external environmental conditions. In this context, Consciousness has to be defined as a biological or living function that is primarily concerned about knowing the fact of its living condition by a living entity. Since it is conscious, the living thing uses its implanted knowledge to obtain energy yielding molecules or matter from its external environment. Since this physiological function called ‘Nutrition’ involves use of stored information to perform a selective task for self-improvement or self- maintenance, it is described as intelligent operation. All living functions involve use of knowledge to perform guided, sequential, goal-oriented, purposeful actions often exploiting laws of physics and chemistry. In Indian tradition Soul is always identified with Knowledge(Jnana), and Chetana(Consciousness).

TAT ASMI PRABHO - FIFTH MAHAVAKYA - MATERIAL vs SPIRITUAL DUALISM. THE EXPERIENCE OF SALT CANNOT BE DERIVED FROM ITS CONSTITUENT ELEMENTS, SODIUM AND CHLORINE. STRUCTURAL COMPLEXITY IS IMPORTANT TO RECOGNIZE NATURE OR TATTVA OF MATERIAL SUBSTANCES. — TAT ASMI PRABHO – FIFTH MAHAVAKYA – MATERIAL vs SPIRITUAL DUALISM. THE EXPERIENCE OF SALT CANNOT BE DERIVED FROM ITS CONSTITUENT ELEMENTS, SODIUM AND CHLORINE. STRUCTURAL COMPLEXITY IS IMPORTANT TO RECOGNIZE NATURE OR TATTVA OF MATERIAL SUBSTANCES.

The terms ‘material’ and ‘spiritual’ are used to describe nature of things called material or spiritual. It is about characteristics not typically included in description of physical and chemical properties of Physical or Chemical Elements. When elements come together to interact and form chemical compounds, their nature changes, and the nature of those Elements cannot be discerned from studying nature of the Chemical Compound which is formulated by their chemical bonding. From taste of Salt, I cannot discover taste of Sodium or Chlorine. From tasting Water, I cannot discover nature of Hydrogen or Oxygen. The term ‘Spiritual’ is about that new nature or Tattva’ formulated by association, bonding, relationship, coming together, or partnership between entities. The term ‘spiritual’ can be used to describe the nature of relationship between energy demanding molecules of a living thing and energy yielding molecules found in its external environment. To experience taste of Salt or Water we need structural complexity termed as Compounds and structures like atoms and subatomic particles cannot by themselves contribute to that experience. Similarly, to observe or experience Consciousness, entities need structural complexity derived from participation of a variety of molecules and hence atoms and subatomic particles when acting alone are not capable of performing functions associated with Consciousness.

Virus(DNA or RNA molecule) represents a simplest living form that is conscious of its own existence, uses knowledge to perform intelligent operations while it exploits energy and matter from another living host. Virus has Soul or Spirit for it has formulated a spiritual relationship for its own benefit and to sustain its living condition or existence.

TAT ASMI PRABHO - FIFTH MAHAVAKYA - MATERIAL vs SPIRITUAL DUALISM. SHANKARA'S "EKA SHLOKI" RECOGNIZES AND ACCOUNTS FOR MAN AS A LIVING ENTITY AND ACKNOWLEDGES GOD AS SUPREME BEING. — **TAT ASMI PRABHO – FIFTH MAHAVAKYA – MATERIAL vs SPIRITUAL DUALISM. SHANKARA’S “EKA SHLOKI” RECOGNIZES AND ACCOUNTS FOR MAN AS A LIVING ENTITY AND ACKNOWLEDGES GOD AS SUPREME BEING.**

Indian tradition often makes distinction between human body and human Soul. The first is said to be perishable and the second is said to be imperishable. This distinction is not based upon Material vs Spiritual Dualism. In Indian concept, the physical form or morphological appearance is called perishable for it ignores fundamental material nature of Chemical Elements. Man’s physical appearance changes under the influence of time right from moment of conception. This changing Identity is possible for it is operated by an unchanging principle called Spirit or Soul. Upanishadic Statements or Aphorisms called Four Mahavakyas fail to account for existence of a living entity called Man for they ignore Material vs Spiritual Dualism.

Rudranarasimham Rebbapragada
Ann Arbor, MI 48104-4162 USA
BHAVANAJAGAT.ORG



		Bhavanajagat.orgBhavanajagat.org, Ann Arbor, MI. BhavanaJagat is a private organization devoted to the study of man’s status in Nature.

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TAT ASMI PRABHO - FIFTH MAHAVAKYA - MATERIAL vs SPIRITUAL DUALISM. THERE ARE THREE FUNDAMENTAL ORDERS OR DIVISIONS, 1. GOD, 2. SOUL OR SPIRIT, AND 3. MATTER. — **TAT ASMI PRABHO – FIFTH MAHAVAKYA – MATERIAL vs SPIRITUAL DUALISM. THERE ARE THREE FUNDAMENTAL ORDERS OR DIVISIONS, 1. GOD, 2. SOUL OR SPIRIT, AND 3. MATTER.**

TAT ASMI PRABHO - FIFTH MAHAVAKYA - MATERIAL vs SPIRITUAL DUALISM. THE FOUR UPANISHADIC STATEMENTS FAIL TO ACCOUNT FOR MATERIAL vs SPIRITUAL DUALISM. THEY FAIL TO ACCOUNT FOR EXISTENCE OF A PHYSICAL LIVING ENTITY CALLED MAN. — TAT ASMI PRABHO – FIFTH MAHAVAKYA – MATERIAL vs SPIRITUAL DUALISM. THE FOUR UPANISHADIC STATEMENTS FAIL TO ACCOUNT FOR MATERIAL vs SPIRITUAL DUALISM. THEY FAIL TO ACCOUNT FOR EXISTENCE OF A PHYSICAL LIVING ENTITY CALLED MAN.

TAT ASMI PRABHO - FIFTH MAHAVAKYA - MATERIAL vs SPIRITUAL DUALISM. THIS APHORISM FAILS TO ACCOUNT FOR EXISTENCE OF A LIVING ENTITY CALLED MAN FOR IT IGNORES MATERIAL vs SPIRITUAL DUALISM. — **TAT ASMI PRABHO – FIFTH MAHAVAKYA – MATERIAL vs SPIRITUAL DUALISM. THIS APHORISM FAILS TO ACCOUNT FOR EXISTENCE OF A LIVING ENTITY CALLED MAN FOR IT IGNORES MATERIAL vs SPIRITUAL DUALISM.**

TAT ASMI PRABHO - FIFTH MAHAVAKYA - MATERIAL vs SPIRITUAL DUALISM. THIS APHORISM FAILS TO ACCOUNT FOR EXISTENCE OF LIVING ENTITY CALLED MAN FOR IT IGNORES MATERIAL vs SPIRITUAL DUALISM. — **TAT ASMI PRABHO – FIFTH MAHAVAKYA – MATERIAL vs SPIRITUAL DUALISM. THIS APHORISM FAILS TO ACCOUNT FOR EXISTENCE OF LIVING ENTITY CALLED MAN FOR IT IGNORES MATERIAL vs SPIRITUAL DUALISM.**

TAT ASMI PRABHO - FIFTH MAHAVAKYA - MATERIAL vs SPIRITUAL DUALISM. THESE UPANISHADIC APHORISMS FAIL TO ACCOUNT FOR EXISTENCE OF A LIVING ENTITY CALLED MAN FOR THEY IGNORE MATERIAL vs SPIRITUAL DUALISM. — TAT ASMI PRABHO – FIFTH MAHAVAKYA – MATERIAL vs SPIRITUAL DUALISM. THESE UPANISHADIC APHORISMS FAIL TO ACCOUNT FOR EXISTENCE OF A LIVING ENTITY CALLED MAN FOR THEY IGNORE MATERIAL vs SPIRITUAL DUALISM.

On Mon, Nov 9, 2015 at 12:42 PM, ‘Dr. Bhaskar C. Harinath’ via Sadhu-Sanga Under the holy association of Spd. B.M. Puri Maharaja, Ph.D. wrote:

I have been going through the various points of view by learned Professors and intellectuals. After going through the summary of the paper (Bhakti Niskama Shanta (2015) Life and Consciousness – The Vedantic View, Communicative & Integrative Biology, 8:5, e1085138 , http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/19420889.2015.1085138), I still feel that with the progress in modern physical science we have not yet reached the evidence to contradict Vedantic concept of “Organic Wholism”.
Not believing in vitalism (divine life force), famous biochemist Lehninger proposed the theory of Molecular logic of the ‘Living State’ and the objective of biochemistry is to determine how the collections of inanimate molecules found in a living organism interact with each other to constitute, maintain and perpetuate the living state with the capacity for self-organization and self replication. We are not able to make much headway so far.
We had interesting experience in replicating nature. Our interest has been to grow microfilariae (filarial parasite (100 microns)) into infective stage (1500 microns) larvae in vitro. We could observe microfilariae growing to sausage stage (1st stage) within 3 days and further no more development. This is in contrast to the development of infective larvae from microfilariae in mosquitoes within 15 days. No laboratory could replicate the nature. Similarly many biochemical reactions are feasible by enzymes (isolated from living organisms) than by chemical pathways. With admiration & appreciation of Nature and in humility, human curiosity and exploration should continue for benefit of mankind. During my recent visit to United States, I was pleased to see the Robotic Vacuum cleaner with dust awareness sensor doing on-the-spot cleaning and when the job is done, going back to the wall plug for getting recharged. These are small benefits of scientific research helping in day to day life.

Prof. B.C. Harinath

Sevagram

From: Anirban Bandyopadhyay

Sent: Tuesday, 3 November 2015 8:37 PM
Subject: Re: [Sadhu Sanga] “…abiogenesis is an insult to the life force.”

There is no distinctive Science for emergent materialism, I disagree strongly with David. While I agree that the belief that everything down to atom has consciousness is a wrong view, I do not think anyone ever said that. Similarly, mathematical formulation of emergent materialism is nothing but “machine view” of consciousness, we simply add additional function arising from the conformational arrangement of participating systems. It is just the other side of the same coin. Therefore the argument that it should not be “machine view” but emergent view of consciousness is a logical falsehood.

Consciousness is not resolved yet, therefore,preaching as if it has been categorized and resolved is non-scientific and driven by a blind religious faith called “scientology”.

We should be careful when we give ultimate view on consciousness, we do not know clearly what is information in the brain or biological system as per say. We have not yet scientifically defined consciousness property, so as a scientist we are careful, in the name of science,endorsing personal definition should also be given carefully.

Anirban

On Tue, Nov 3, 2015 at 8:32 PM, David Schwartzman wrote:

I do not agree with the arguments being made below. Science and religion have different methodologies, the former is based on experiment combined with theoretical work, the scientific method, the latter on reaffirming a tradition written in sacred texts. My final point: panpsychism, the belief that all entities down to the atom (even quarks?) have consciousness, is just as reductionist as mechanical materialism, the machine model for everything in the universe. In contrast, emergent materialism is a metatheory of scientific knowledge. “The whole is greater than the sum of its parts” is a very simple way of expressing that the interaction of the parts, whether it be atoms in molecules, many molecules together, like in liquid water have properties such as surface tension which emerge from the interaction of the parts. Self-organization of matter gives rise to new levels of interaction of parts, stars, planets, cells, prokaryotes, eukaryotes, consciousness, societies. Thermodynamics of open systems helps understand the process of self-organization in the universe, the creation of new forms of organization by the export of entropy past the boundaries of the open system.

Good luck with your speculation and debates!

On Tue, Nov 3, 2015 at 5:54 AM, Sandeep Goel wrote:

What a brilliant an convincing reply by Dr. Shanta. I am sure Dr. Schwartzman will agree with this! Important points to be noted:
* Both materialistic and non-materialistic scientists are dependent on the ideas/grace to come to them from an unknown source. What is that source from which these new ideas come to the scientists by which they unravel the mysteries? This is a very important question that is not well understood in modern science. Vedāntic philosophy discusses this aspect in great details.

* Not only science is global but also it is unbiased. Therefore, science will not take the sides of either materialism or non-materialism. Science will follow the evidence wherever it may lead. Similarly, the Vedāntic concept of ‘Soul’ also creates the universal brotherhood (there is nothing like western soul or eastern soul).

If we are all brothers then why not find a common ground instead of engaged in endless fights between Science and Religion? Both Science and Religion are playing an important role in our society. Therefore, a harmony between Science and Religion will be a great achievement towards the upliftment of humanity.

– S.G.

On Mon, Nov 2, 2015 at 3:40 AM, Dr. Bhakti Niskama Shanta wrote:

Dear Prof. David Schwartzman

Thank you for making these important points and if we can understand properly and assimilate the essence of these conclusions from your points then it can help in establishing a lasting harmony between science and religion. I am summarizing the points that you made in the context of harmony between science and religion:
(1) Faith is an essential element in both materialism and non-materialism
(2) Neither materialistic nor non-materialistic scientists have all the answers. Like authentic scientific texts, bonafied religious traditions can only advise the ways to know the truth. To realize the truth one has to make sincere attempts. Both materialistic and non-materialistic scientists are dependent on the ideas/grace to come to them from an unknown source. What is that source from which these new ideas come to the scientists by which they unravel the mysteries? This is a very important question that is not well understood in modern science. Vedāntic philosophy discusses this aspect in great details.
(3) Not only science is global but also it is unbiased. Therefore, science will not take the sides of either materialism or non-materialism. Science will follow the evidence wherever it may lead. Similarly, the Vedāntic concept of ‘Soul’ also creates the universal brotherhood (there is nothing like western soul or eastern soul).
(4) You have told, “When we finally achieve contact with extraterrestrial intelligence then the test of commensurability of our knowledge with theirs is possible.” In the paper ‘Life and consciousness – The Vedāntic view’ it is explained:

“We can witness voluntary functions (the action that are apparently under the control of our mind) and involuntary functions in the living organisms. The things that we appear to control are due to our consciousness coming from our soul (ātman) and that which are not in our control (involuntary functions: complex cellular functions, heart beats, autonomous signals, and so on) are controlled by higher consciousness coming from Paramātma (super soul). Hence, Paramātma (source of infinite consciousness) is also known as the ground or sustainer of the ātman (finite consciousness).”

The topic under discussion “abiogenesis” is the best test of commensurability of our limited knowledge with Paramātma (super soul): “there will never be a Newton of the blade of grass, because human science will never be able to explain how a living being can originate from inanimate matter.”56

Sincerely,

B.N. Shanta

On Monday, 2 November 2015 1:55 AM, David Schwartzman wrote:
My short reply is that I have faith in the capacity of scientific research to unravel the mysteries of the universe.You have faith in your religious tradition, an ideology which by definition is complete, so all the answers are already provided by your sacred texts, just as is the case for believers in the literal truth of the Christian/Jewish bible.
Science is never complete and is the collective heritage of humanity. Scientific research is a collective process, so my individual faith in its capacity is continuously tested. And science is global, not Western.
When we finally achieve contact with extraterrestrial intelligence then the test of commensurability of our knowledge with theirs is possible.
On Sat, Oct 31, 2015 at 5:28 PM, Dr. Bhakti Niskama Shanta wrote:

Dear Prof. David Schwartzman

Why do you think that “Creationism is the real threat to global culture”?

As scientists, we do not create rivers, mountains, oceans, planets and so on. If you think that it is appropriate to give due credit and respect to those scientists who have created a few toys (like Airplanes, which fly for certain limited time) then the devotion of the theists is even more justified, where they want to glorify the original supreme sentient being (supreme scientist) behind the manifestation of gigantic planets, which are flying without any fuel from time immemorial.

Francis Bacon was one of the prominent personalities in natural philosophy and in the subject matter of scientific methodology during the shift from the Renaissance to the beginning of the modern era. For Bacon the value of power and utility is so immense that frequently truth, power and utility become identical concepts in his understanding. As Bourdeau stated:

“For Bacon we must subdue nature, penetrate its secrets and chain it to satisfy our desires. Man is the center of the world and the object of science is to dominate nature.” {P. Bourdeau (2004). The man-nature relationship and environmental ethics. J. Environmental Radioactivity, Vol. 72, 9-15}

In the past, nature was seen as a worshipable divine gift of God and after Bacon’s campaign all that has changed. Bourdeau further stated:

“… Now nature is threatened by man who has become detached from it. Technology has endowed humans with the power of a major geological agency, which may act on a continental or even planetary scale (e.g. acid rain, photochemical smog, radioactive contamination, stratospheric ozone depletion, climate change)… The relationship between man and nature must be reconsidered.”

No matter how grand a scientific venture may be, it certainly cannot capture the entire scope of reality. Modern science cannot control cosmos, suns, planets, seasons, and so on and so forth. Hence, science is forced to confine itself to an insignificant fraction of complete reality. As Sir Isaac Newton said, I seem to have been only like a boy playing on the sea-shore, and diverting myself in now and then finding a smoother pebble or a prettier shell than ordinary, whilst the great ocean of truth lay all undiscovered before me.

Cultivating false pride (ahańkāra) is certainly not the objective of science. The real purpose of science is to develop genuine humility.

At times the scientific schemes are exceedingly fruitful and many concepts appear to be firmly established in science. However, as time progresses, and with the development of new information, the same science recognizes new phenomena, which often fail to accommodate the firmly established old concepts. In such situations a portion of the scientific world tries to powerfully, and sometimes emotionally, preserve their belief in the old concepts. However, the empirical observations compel science to embrace the truth in the face of all such antagonism. 21st century biology is witnessing a movement of this nature, where the empirical evidence is forcing many prominent scientists to reject the old, widely used, abiogenesis (chemical evolution) and Darwinism (evolution of bodies). Some biologists, engrossed in the old disposition of Darwinism and abiology, want to preserve it at any cost. In such attempts, often they cannot recognize the blinkers they enforce on themselves due to their idealistic obligations rather than empirical inevitabilities. However, we must recognize the fundamental strength of science as rightly stated by a News article:

“The fundamental strength of science is that it compels its practitioners to confront their own fallibility… Science is not always right – very far from it. What marks it out from other fields of human endeavor is that, because of its formalized humility, it’s always ready to correct itself when it makes a mistake.”

You told “Students deserve to learn real science rather be told that creationist stories are equally valid as science (e.g. the Biblical account, as in some southern states in the U.S.).”

Why do you think that only materialism is science? Moreover, the students are not properly informed about the true status of the big claims made by materialism on the name of science. Please give some attention to the Joseph A. Kuhn’s statement in his interesting paper ‘Dissecting Darwinism’:

“When the Texas State Board of Education voted to recognize the weaknesses of Darwinian evolution in explaining the origin of the species, it was a result of 3 full days of intense debate and scientific dispute. In 2011, when new textbooks were presented to the State Board of Education, 9 out of 10 failed to provide the mandated supplementary curricula, which would include both positive and negative aspects of evolution (44). Moreover, several of the textbooks continued to incorrectly promote the debunked Miller-Urey origin of life experiment, the long-discredited claims about nonfunctional appendix and tonsils, and the fraudulent embryo drawings from Ernst Haeckel. In essence, current biology students, aspiring medical students, and future scientists are not being taught the whole story. Rather, evidence suggests that they continue to receive incorrect and incomplete material that exaggerates the effect of random mutation and natural selection to account for DNA, the cell, or the transition from species to species.”

You told “The research program on the origin of life is not mechanistic, rather another example of emergent materialism in action. It isn’t about “inventing novel laws”, rather both an experimental and theoretical approach (using e.g., thermodynamics) working out the material/energetic basis for the emergence of protocells.”

Please enlighten us how the emergent materialism will justify the appearance of sentience from matter, which is unconscious or impersonal. We have the empirical evidence to believe that every cell comes only from pre-existing cell. What is the scientific basis to justify your belief “The researchers in question haven’t claimed they have produced such protocells, YET. I fully expect that the experimental approach will succeed, sooner than many think.” ?

Kindly explain how the experimental and theoretical approach that you have stated will provide the answers to the two simple questions that I have asked before:
(1) What is the minimum number of parts that are essential for a living organism to survive?
(2) By what mechanism do these parts get assembled together?

You further told “The empirical evidence points to the origin of life early in Earth history, likely soon after the late heavy bombardment, some 4 to 4.3 billion years.”

What are the scientific credentials to believe those numbers “4 to 4.3 billion years”? Do you have any fossil data for last universal common ancestor?

You also told “I agree with Mayr, but again emergent/dialectical materialism is not equivalent to mechanical materialism, as Fred Engels pointed out in the 19th century. Further quoting from religious texts proves nothing. Why not quote from the more prophetic texts of ancient Indian materialists?”

Just changing the name from ‘mechanical materialism’ to ’emergent/dialectical materialism’ also proves nothing. By the way, are you aware of any prophetic texts of ancient Indian materialists?

Finally you told “You can’t have your scientific cake and eat it too believing non-materialism is vindicated.”

Unlike western civilization (rooted in science-religion conflicts), in Vedāntic tradition one can be a theist and yet he can be very scientific in his/her approach. You might have heard about yoga. Yoga means to establish the connection with unitary Supreme Cognizant Being. The central tenet of Vedānta (also known as Vedānta-sūtra) is that everything is dependent upon an original sentient/conscious foundation or self-knowing absolute truth. The first aphorism of Vedānta-sūtra states that under the guidance of a spiritually realized being, we must inquire into our true nature as spirit (athāto brahma jijñāsā). The second aphorism of Vedānta-sūtra provides the initial indication of how to begin this inquiry (janmādy asya yatah). Janma means birth, asya refers to everything (entire cosmos which includes both matter and life) and yatah means ‘from whom’. Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam is considered as a natural supplementary commentary on the Vedānta-sūtra. The first verse of Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam elaborated the commentary of the second aphorism of Vedānta-sūtra (janmādy yato ńvayād itarataś cārthesv abhijñah svarāt). “Janmādy asya yatah” – the origin of everything is “abhijñah svarāt” – the unitary Supreme Cognizant Being. Therefore, to begin the inquiry into our true nature, we must first inquire into the original source of everything. Vedāntic explanation that unitary Supreme Cognizant Being is the source of everything is founded on two scientifically verifiable axiomatic facts: (1) Life comes from Life, and (2) Matter comes from Life. Applying reason and experience, anyone can verify the teachings of Vedānta.

Therefore, as a follower of Vedānta one must scientifically realize how the unitary Supreme Cognizant Being is the original source of everything and thus overcoming the desire of self glorification one can use his/her scientific endeavor to glorify the Supreme Absolute.

Sincerely,
B.N. Shanta

On Saturday, 31 October 2015 11:34 PM, David Schwartzman wrote:
Dear Dr. Shanta,

Thanks for your thoughtful response. Please see my comments below in your text.
On Sat, Oct 31, 2015 at 11:18 AM, Dr. Bhakti Niskama Shanta wrote:

Dear Prof. David Schwartzman

We also respect your belief on materialism, but your statement “Creationism and supernaturalism are by definition inconsistent with science. Only emergent materialism is consistent with the Theory and practice of science research” seems to be inappropriate. It is very sad to see that such an attitude (the historical conflicts between science and religion in western culture are intrinsic to the incompatibility between science practice/research and truth) still continues to badly influence many scientists and academicians around the world. It is extremely harmful to politicize and manipulate science for the mere political gains by using legal or economic pressure by government, business, or advocacy groups. Against the true goal of science, it also adversely influences the academic and scientific freedom. Manipulating public policy by campaigns to endorse the biased interests against scientific evidence is an attempt towards complete demolition of real essence of science. Our humble appeal is that for the good of human civilization everyone should realize that the real purpose of science is to encourage scientific research for the benefit of Mankind, and to follow the evidence wherever it may lead.

Creationism is the real threat to global culture rather than the historical conflicts between science and religion which were imperative to make scientific research possible, continually breaking the barriers put up by vitalism, e.g., the revolutionary Theories of Darwin and Oparin. Students deserve to learn real science rather be told that creationist stories are equally valid as science (e.g. the Biblical account, as in some southern states in the U.S.). Atheists are subject to public ridicule and persecution even in the U.S., and the situation is much worse in other countries where religious dogma is used to legitimate torture and murder of non-believers (e.g., recent examples in Saudi Arabia and Bangladesh). All of this of course does not justify State Terrorism in the name of democracy or any secular ideology, nor any discrimination against religious believers. The separation of church and state is essential for any real democracy, equality between believers and non-believers. And of course unity regardless of one’s religious belief is imperative to bringing the other world that is possible into reality, e.g., preventing catastrophic climate change while there is still time.

You have also mentioned that “Abiogenesis is now a fertile research program with the labs of Nick Lane and Mike Russell standing out as cutting edge.” Both Nick Lane and Mike Russell think that hydrothermal vent will be the answer to abiogenesis. I would like to bring your attention to the article ‘Is It Time To Throw Out ‘Primordial Soup’ Theory?’ published in NPR, where it is stated:

Is the “primordial soup” theory — the idea that life emerged from a prebiotic broth — past its expiration date?

Biochemist Nick Lane thinks so.

The article further states:

Instead of atmospheric gases and lightning, Lane’s team proposes that deep-sea, alkaline hydrothermal vents powered life’s predecessors.

At these vents, warm fluids percolate up through the ocean floor. When they react to ocean water, they form tiny, inorganic cells. Lane says these cells produce energy the same way that living cells do today: by harnessing chemical gradients across a membrane.

By replacing primordial soup with hydrothermal vent hypothesis will not solve the problem of materialism. We cannot claim that a system is alive just because it produces energy. In living organism, the unifying principle is sentience and how a mere mechanical or chemical manipulation can produce sentience is the main question that abiogenesis should answer. On this topic you can read one of our articles ‘Sorry, Darwin: – Chemistry Never Made The Transition To Biology’ which was presented as an invited talk at 100th Indian Science Congress and also in several universities and colleges. On the name of biology, following a reductionistic ideology, biologists in general try to invent novel laws using either a top-down or a bottom-up approach. However, as it is mentioned in the paper ‘Life and consciousness – The Vedāntic view’:

By metaphorically assuming an organism as a machine, biologists try to come to terms with many of its properties and features. Following this approach, biologists have only made an attempt to discover the physical properties and chemical processes of different biomolecules present within the body of a living organism. Such mechanical investigations of living organisms have always failed to provide any successful mechanical explanations of living organisms. Therefore, such a reductionistic analysis is just a pretension to study life, but in actuality it only deals with the study of dead matter (abiology).

The research program on the origin of life is not mechanistic, rather another example of emergent materialism in action. It isn’t about “inventing novel laws”, rather both an experimental and theoretical approach (using e.g., thermodynamics) working out the material/energetic basis for the emergence of protocells. The researchers in question haven’t claimed they have produced such protocells, YET. I fully expect that the experimental approach will succeed, sooner than many think.

You told “Artificial consciousness will be come sooner than you think, but perhaps not as fast as Ray Kurzweil has argued.” These are only faith based statements in support of materialism without any actual evidence to support the same. Empirical evidence only shows that “Life comes from Life – Biogenesis” or “Every Sentient System comes from a preexisting Sentient System”.

The empirical evidence points to the origin of life early in Earth history, likely soon after the late heavy bombardment, some 4 to 4.3 billion years.

As it is stated in the paper ‘Life and consciousness – The Vedāntic view’:

Kant explained, “one wheel in the watch does not produce another, and still less does one watch produce other watches.”55 In a living organism, the complex biomolecules are not just there for the sake of each other, but they also produce each other, maintain each other, and are dedicating units of an organic whole. Therefore, unlike machines, the generation, properties, and functions of the parts of an organism cannot be understood independently from the organism as a whole. The empirical evidence in frontier biology also confirms Immanuel Kant’s statement: “there will never be a Newton of the blade of grass, because human science will never be able to explain how a living being can originate from inanimate matter.”56 For confirmation, in his book This is Biology, 20th century’s leading evolutionary biologist Ernst Mayr wrote:

“It is a little difficult to understand why the machine concept of organism could have had such long lasting popularity. After all, no machine has ever built itself, replicated itself, programmed itself, or been able to procure its own energy. The similarity between an organism and a machine is exceedingly superficial.”57

I agree with Mayr, but again emergent/dialectical materialism is not equivalent to mechanical materialism, as Fred Engels pointed out in the 19th century. Further quoting from religious texts proves nothing. Why not quote from the more prophetic texts of ancient Indian materialists?

Your statement “Vitalism has failed time and time again when posed as insurmountable obstacles to scientific knowledge” is true. Metaphorically some naturalists believed that, as an invisible gravitational force controls the motion of planets and stars, similarly, the movements and functions of a living organism are controlled by an invisible force (Lebenskraft or vis vitalis). Naturalists believing such a view are called vitalists and their metaphorical dependency on mechanical explanation of reality is the real cause of the downfall of vitalism. Scientists can explain the physics of motion of inanimate objects by laws of physics. However, a living organism has a ‘conscious self’, which is endowed with ‘free will’ or ‘self-determination’. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate, whether animated systems are based on certain additional principles that are beyond the domain of natural laws of the physics and there is a genuine need for a restructuring of the conceptual science of ‘animated systems’ – a non-materialistic spiritual biology.

This formulation is a contradiction in itself, and not a dialectical contradiction. If there are additional principles that can be demonstrated by scientific research, then scientific knowledge is enriched, expanding the natural laws of physics, chemistry etc. A non-materialist spirit, an example of “supernaturalism” is by definition beyond the scope of scientific research, hence based purely on religious speculation. You can’t have your scientific cake and eat it too believing non-materialism is vindicated.

Sincerely,

B.N. Shanta

On Friday, 30 October 2015 11:25 PM, David Schwartzman wrote:
I don’t know why I was put on this discussion list, but here are my two cents, with full respect for believers in the supernatural:Creationism and supernaturalism are by definition inconsistent with science. Only emergent materialism is consistent with the Theory and practice of science research. Abiogenesis is now a fertile research program with the labs of Nick Lane and Mike Russell standing out as cutting edge. Consciousness, with its convergent emergence in both mammals and birds (dolphins, elephants, the great apes and magpies pass the mirror test of self-recognition along with H. sapiens) likewise has a fertile research program. Artificial consciousness will be come sooner than you think, but perhaps not as fast as Ray Kurzweil has argued. Vitalism has failed time and time again when posed as insurmountable obstacles to scientific knowledge.

David Schwartzman
Professor Emeritus
Department of Biology
Howard University
Washington DC 20059

—-Messaggio originale—-
Data: 28/10/2015 16.02Ogg: Re: R: Re: [Sadhu Sanga] “…abiogenesis is an insult to the life force.”

I am not making this up.

As this email popped into my mailbox 30 minutes ago, my 3 year-old daughter called me over to her iPad and screamed PUPAE!

She then showed me a Video, which described research at the Georgetown University, wherein the brain neurons of a caterpillar were preserved intact, and throughout metamorphosis resulted in DNA conservation and a neurotransmitter / protein elaboration pair that was identical to that found in human hippocampus mid to long-term memory neurons. The DNA snps in the subsequent brains of the Monarch butterfly gave them memory of exactly which Milk-Weed Plant species… elaborating in addition, the neurotransmitters…identical to humans that conserve memory of certain smells…they needed to find, so that the metamorphosis cycle continues.

The research was part of a project that has proven that Caterpillars and Butterflies can ‘remember’ sentient affective and effector memory-reaction needs, because they possess (some of) the same neuronal mechanisms as do we.

I thought that was pretty interesting, and I didn’t know this. And, I happen to have a PhD in Comparative Animal Neurophysiology, and as an MD I practice Forensic Neurology.

So, Sergio and my 3-year-old Katja Arielle have taught this guy something magical, mysterious, and wonderful. And, a needed stake in the heart of my Hubris.

I also do not believe the timing was disconnected.

Thank you Sergio Canaveral, Spd. B.M. Puri Maharaja, Ph.D. whoever you are: I certainly will not mark your email address as Junk mail…to the contrary I will search out who you all are to discover and what else you may have to teach, that I need to learn.

And, Thank you Sergio and Katja.

Christopher C. Green, MD PhD FAAFS

Chairman, Med:For, Inc

Forensic & Translational Medicine
Assistant Dean / Asia Pacific

Wayne State School of Medicine
Professor, Neuroimaging – MRI
Department of Diagnostic Radiology
Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences
Harper University Hospital
Detroit Medical Center

Institute for Brain Imaging
Chinese Academy of Sciences Lifetime Associate
National Research Council
National Academy of Sciences

—-Messaggio originale—-

Data: 28/10/2015 15.05

Ogg: Re: [Sadhu Sanga] “…abiogenesis is an insult to the life force.”

The universe is consciousness
Biological organisms are species of consciousness
Deepak Chopra
2013 Costa Del Mar Road
Carlsbad, CA 92009

On Oct 27, 2015, at 10:45 PM, Anthony wrote:

Does everything that has a life force have a soul? (seriously, nobody’s ever explained that to me)

…and if not, where does one draw the line? is there a soul in the mosquito drinking my blood? in the tapeworm? in the world’s largest underground fungus?

thank you.

Date: Tue, 27 Oct 2015 22:25:58 +0000
Subject: Re: [Sadhu Sanga] “…abiogenesis is an insult to the life force.”

Gary:

It is amazing that mankind supposedlyevolved over a period of about 10,000 years. The Greeks then invented the presence of a soul within mankind.

What surprises me is if the early man, which was closer to being an ape, did not have a soul. Where and how did mankind find its soul?

To my perception, animals also must have souls. Look at the previous comment here that when you have a body with a certain condition may die but was recently alive at some time, only differed for these two situations by a life force. Could this be that soul and could not the same logic follow the issue that animals too also have souls?

Descartes never had the pain of my three animals as well as their different and distinct personalities…

Paul Murad
Morningstar Applied Physics, LLC
www.morningstarap.com
pm

From: Gary Francione

Sent: Tuesday, October 27, 2015 8:35 AM
Subject: Re: [Sadhu Sanga] “…abiogenesis is an insult to the life force.”
Actually, according to Descartes, the dog cannot feel happiness because the dog has no consciousness. Unlike most others, who recognized that nonhumans were conscious but claimed they were not self-aware, and therefore, were cognitively inferior to humans, Descartes at least appears to have rejected nonhuman consciousness at all. He really did appear to believe (although this not entirely clear because he contradicts himself in certain passages) that animals were automatons or machines.

Those of us who are not vegan embrace the idea that it is morally acceptable to consume or wear animals because, although sentient (and conscious), nonhumans are not self-conscious and, therefore, have no interest in continuing to live. They exist in an “eternal present” (to use Singer’s expression) and killing them is not a problem per se; as long as we minimize suffering, and act “humanely,” we are acting morally.

Putting aside that we do not treat animals “humanely” (whatever that word means) that position, articulated by Bentham and others in the 19th century and continued today by Singer and others, begs the question about whether human self-awareness is the only sort of self-awareness that is relevant. In my work, I have argued that to be sentient is to be self-aware and that one can be self-aware even if one lives in an “eternal present.”

Gary L. Francione
Board of Governors Distinguished Professor of Law
& Nicholas deB. Katzenbach Scholar of Law and Philosophy
Rutgers University School of Law
123 Washington Street
Newark, New Jersey 07102

SECRET ARCHIVE OFFERS FRESH INSIGHT INTO NIXON PRESIDENCY

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The real story behind Maharana Pratap’s Death

Author: Prateek PathakPublication: Speakingtree.inDate: March 17, 2015URL: http://www.speakingtree.in/allslides/how-did-maharana-pratap-die

Bharat Darshan – Kumbhalgarh Fort, Rajasthan

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RAM SETU – Engineering Marvel of 5076 BCE...

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Rare full moon makes an appearance on Christmas Day

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Author: Prateek Pathak
Publication: Speakingtree.in
Date: March 17, 2015
URL: http://www.speakingtree.in/allslides/how-did-maharana-pratap-die